Abstract: Methods and systems for improving vehicular safety by notifying vehicle operators of location-based risks are provided. According to embodiments, a processing server may receive an initial location of a vehicle. Based on location data associated with the initial location, the processing server can determine the risk of an incident. The processing server can generate a notification to communicate to the vehicle operator, and the vehicle operator can assess the risk and take action to mitigate the risk, for example by relocating the vehicle. The processing server can receive updated location data for the vehicle and can determine, based on the updated location data, that the risk has been mitigated.

Abstract: A vehicle control system includes a portable device configured to store information on an electronic lock of a vehicle and an in-vehicle controller configured to communicate with the portable device, the in-vehicle controller being installed in the vehicle. The in-vehicle controller is configured to generate a permission command to permit the specific operation to be performed when the in-vehicle controller determines that the operation requested to be performed on the vehicle is a specific operation that needs permission from the authorized user, in-vehicle controller when the in-vehicle controller determines that the portable device is within a predetermined range around the vehicle, and when the in-vehicle controller determines that near field communication between the portable device and the communication terminal based on a first telecommunications standard is established.

Abstract: Methods, apparatuses, and systems are described for dynamically navigating interactive communication systems. An example method may comprise: receiving, from a user device, sound waves or audio information, the sound waves or audio information indicative of a request to initiate an interactive communication session with a communication system of a biller or merchant; interpreting, based on the sound waves or audio information, an intent of the communication session and an identity of the biller or merchant; retrieving a predetermined interaction coding associated with the biller or merchant; and initiating the interactive communication session with the communication system of the biller or merchant based on the predetermined interaction coding.

Abstract: The present disclosure causes security at the time of transferring a vehicle to be improved, in a vehicle system using an electronic key. The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a vehicle configured to perform authentication for a mobile apparatus based on an electronic key acquired from the mobile apparatus. Use situations of the electronic keys issued to the two or more mobile apparatuses are acquired; and the authentication performed for any of the two or more mobile apparatuses is invalidated when the use situations satisfy predetermined conditions.

Abstract: A method for improving safety and property protection in schools comprising fixed and mobile safety and security devices, networked together. A software App provides real-time communication among various devices. The network integrates disparate security devices into a unified system to expand coordination and communication among public safety personnel. The system automatically triggers alarms, cell phone notifications, and warnings, as well as defensive measures, when its sensors or safety devices detect or report threats to public safety and property. Each device in the system is pre-programmed to respond independently while simultaneously sharing its findings with all other devices and security personnel in the network. Deployment of these disparate devices gives security personnel heightened awareness, real-time status of secured and unsecured building entrances, around-the-clock visualization, and faster response times in both indoor and outdoor emergencies.

Abstract: Methods and systems are provided. One method includes processing operations to share electronic keys (e-keys). The method includes receiving a request to share an electronic key (e-key) of a vehicle with a recipient device. The request to share the e-key is initiated by sending a message to the recipient device using a sharing device. The method includes processing the request to validate the request to share the e-key, as received from the sharing device having associated therewith a registered owner e-key. Processing the request includes generating the e-key securely by the sharing device and registering the e-key that was generated with a server associated with a manufacturer of the vehicle. The method includes enabling the e-key for use on the vehicle by the recipient device responsive to said processing of the request. The request to share the e-key includes enabling a setting to apply a privilege level for use of the vehicle via the e-key.

Abstract: A vehicle configured to communicate with a server of a cloud system to enable access to use the vehicle via one or more electronic keys is provided. The vehicle includes electronics and a subsystem of the vehicle for enabling unlocking of the vehicle. The subsystem is interfaced with the electronics and a subsystem of the vehicle for enabling starting of the vehicle for use of the vehicle. The vehicle further includes communications circuitry that is interfaced with electronics of the vehicle. The communications circuitry is programmable to communicate with the server of the cloud system and communicate with a mobile device. The communications circuitry of the vehicle is configured to receive a request from the mobile device for unlocking of the vehicle. The request from the mobile device includes coded data obtained by the mobile device from the server to enable sending the request to the vehicle. The coded data is associated with privileges for use of the vehicle.

Abstract: This patent specification relates to various smart-home systems. Such a system may include a battery-powered smart home device that communicates using a first wireless protocol characterized by relatively low power usage and relatively low data rates. Such a system may further include a smart wall outlet device. The smart wall outlet device may include wireless communication circuitry comprising a first wireless interface and a second wireless interface. The first wireless interface may be configured to communicate with the battery-powered smart home device using the first wireless protocol. The second wireless interface may be configured to serve as a communication bridge between the battery-powered smart home device and a wireless network that uses a second communication protocol characterized by relatively higher power usage and relatively higher data rates.

Abstract: Embodiments provide systems, methods and computer-readable medium to manage rider pickup and drop-off for autonomous vehicles. In one embodiment, a method includes receiving a ride request and an associated pickup location from a requestor computing device, matching the ride request to a vehicle, and instructing the vehicle to travel towards the pickup location. When the vehicle reaches the pickup location, an unlock request is received from the requestor computing device to unlock the vehicle. In response to receiving the unlock request, a verification is made that one or more unlock criteria associated with the vehicle are satisfied. If satisfied, a door of the vehicle is unlocked.

Abstract: An alarm device for preventing theft of a vehicle having a kickstand support attached to the vehicle having: a housing associated with the kickstand support; a pressure sensing component located associated with the housing and adjacent an end of the kickstand for detecting a force of the kickstand on a ground surface, the pressure sensing component including a surface area for contacting the ground surface when the kickstand is in the deployed position; a controller in electronic communication with the pressure sensor for determining whether the kickstand is in contact with the ground surface based on measurements from the pressure sensing component; a communications module in electronic communication with the controller for wirelessly communicating with a user device. The controller generates an alarm when the kickstand is in the deployed position and determines that the force of the kickstand on the ground has changed by a threshold amount.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and a system that enable a sender to send one or more physical items to a recipient in an anonymous way, allowing the recipient to respond to the sender after receiving the one or more physical items. No data related to the sender and the recipient are retained in the system.

Abstract: A disclosed system includes a mobile application operative on a mobile device to receive user selected options for limiting drive access to a vehicle when the user is not physically present with the vehicle but wishes to allow service personnel access and limited drive functions. The disclosed system allows user selection of the options, then generates an instruction set for controlling one or more drive capabilities of the vehicle based at least in part on the user selected options. The system establishes an encrypted channel between the mobile device and a telematics control unit of the vehicle. The system controls drive capabilities of the vehicle via the encrypted channel such that the mobile application user can provide remote access for locking, unlocking, ignition, and further restrict drive functions based on time, date, distance, geo-fence options, and other criteria.

Abstract: Methods and systems for sharing digital electronic keys (e-keys) to use a vehicle with the e-key are provided. One example method includes sending, via a first application of a first mobile device, a message to a second mobile device to initiate providing access to the vehicle via the e-key. The method includes receiving, by the first mobile device, data confirming from the second mobile device indicating receipt and creating the e-key at the second mobile device for the vehicle with a level of access that was set via the first application of the first mobile device. The data confirming receipt for the e-key is authenticated by the first mobile device. The method includes sending, by the first mobile device, verification of the e-key for use via the second mobile device. The e-key is registered with a server to enable activation of the e-key on the second mobile device. A second application of the second mobile device provides a user interface for access of the e-key for unlocking and starting the vehicle.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus for secured independent hosted payload operations are disclosed. In one or more embodiments, a disclosed method for payload operations comprises receiving, by a command receiver on a vehicle, host commands from a host satellite operations center (SOC). The method further comprises commanding a hosted payload on or off according to the host commands. Also, the method comprises reconfiguring a host payload according to the host commands. In addition, the method comprises transmitting, by a host payload antenna, host user data to a host user antenna. Additionally, the method comprises receiving, by a hosted payload antenna on the vehicle, hosted commands from a hosted payload (HoP) operation center (HOC). Also, the method comprises reconfiguring the hosted payload according to the hosted commands. Further, the method comprises transmitting, by the hosted payload antenna, hosted user data to a hosted user antenna.

Abstract: A vehicle configured to communicate with a server of a cloud system to enable access to use the vehicle via one or more electronic keys is provided. The vehicle includes electronics and a subsystem of the vehicle for enabling unlocking of the vehicle. The subsystem is interfaced with the electronics and a subsystem of the vehicle for enabling starting of the vehicle for use of the vehicle. The vehicle further includes communications circuitry that is interfaced with electronics of the vehicle. The communications circuitry is programmable to communicate with the server of the cloud system and communicate with a mobile device. The communications circuitry of the vehicle is configured to receive a request from the mobile device for unlocking of the vehicle. The request from the mobile device includes a unique access code obtained by the mobile device from the server to enable sending the request to the vehicle. The unique access code is associated with privileges for use of the vehicle.

Abstract: A mobile wireless network and a method of operation provide tracking of mobile devices and case file generation initiated upon detecting communications errors. The case files contain trends corresponding to the communications errors by analyzing parameters of the communications. The trends are compared to stored patterns that represent particular error types and resolutions so that corrective action can be taken on the network.

Abstract: A vehicle configured to communicate with a server of a cloud system to enable access to use the vehicle via one or more electronic keys is provided. The vehicle includes electronics and a subsystem of the vehicle for enabling unlocking of the vehicle. The subsystem is interfaced with the electronics and a subsystem of the vehicle for enabling starting of the vehicle for use of the vehicle. The vehicle further includes communications circuitry that is interfaced with electronics of the vehicle. The communications circuitry is programmable to communicate with the server of the cloud system and communicate with a mobile device. The communications circuitry of the vehicle is configured to receive a request from the mobile device for unlocking of the vehicle. The request from the mobile device includes a unique access code obtained by the mobile device from the server to enable sending the request to the vehicle. The unique access code is associated with privileges for use of the vehicle.

Abstract: In at least one embodiment, an apparatus for transmitting vehicle information to a portable personal communication device (PCD) is provided. The apparatus comprises a communication module positioned in the first vehicle. The communication module is configured to transmit a first signal including static information and dynamic information to the first PCD. The static information includes one of a first vehicle serial number and a vehicle type and the dynamic information includes one of a connect status, a driver alert rating, and a silent alarm. The first PCD is arranged to control operation thereof based on at least one of the static information and the dynamic information.

Abstract: An emergency notification device (10) for notifying an emergency notification center (2) of emergency information b from the vehicle (1) in case of vehicle emergency, comprising: a wireless communication part (15) for performing wireless communication with the emergency notification center (2); a control part (11) for controlling the wireless communication part (15) to perform wireless communication with the emergency notification center (2) in case of vehicle emergency; and an in-vehicle communication part (12, 17) for performing communication with a communication terminal (40) in the vehicle; wherein the control part (11) is configured to, in a wireless communication disabled state in case of vehicle emergency, communicate with the communication terminal (40) in the vehicle via the in-vehicle communication part to cause the communication terminal (40) to transmit the emergency information b to a predetermined emergency contact destination.

Abstract: Methods and systems for improving vehicular safety by utilizing a driving tip model are provided. According to embodiments, an analysis server can analyze telematics data associated with operation of one or more vehicles to identify driving tips that may be aimed to mitigate certain risks or warn of various conditions. The analysis server can provide the driving tips to the vehicles and, in response, receive updated telematics data from the vehicles that reflects operation data for the vehicles subsequent to receiving the driving tips. The analysis server can analyze the updated telematics data to associate certain driving tips with certain telematics data and identify effective driving tips and delivery techniques. The analysis server can update the driving tip model accordingly.

Abstract: A system and method for generating and transmitting emergency messages and for maintaining real-time emergency communications sessions between users and emergency dispatch centers. A system receives data transmitted from a user device and constructs an emergency message related to a specific type of emergency scenario as well as the location, meta-data and background information of the user. The generated emergency message is transmitted via a communications network and delivered to an appropriate emergency dispatch center. The method enables the user to deliver a detailed request for help regardless of his or her location or, in another instance, delivers the basic emergency response related information for the user. The generated emergency message is universally compatible with emergency communications center infrastructure so long as the communications centers possess basic voice call equipment.

Abstract: Method for controlling a power electronics system for a vehicle in which, while maintaining a current timing of a modulator of the power electronics system, one switching state of the power electronics system from a number of possible switching states of the power electronics system is selected in dependence on at least one requirement, to be provided in advance, for spectral characteristics of an error signal of an output voltage of the power electronics system and is set in the power electronics system.

Abstract: A system and method for generating and transmitting emergency messages and for maintaining real-time emergency communications sessions between users and emergency dispatch centers. A system receives data transmitted from a user device and constructs an emergency message related to a specific type of emergency scenario as well as the location, meta-data and background information of the user. The generated emergency message is transmitted via a communications network and delivered to an appropriate emergency dispatch center. The method enables the user to deliver a detailed request for help regardless of his or her location or, in another instance, delivers the basic emergency response related information for the user. The generated emergency message is universally compatible with emergency communications center infrastructure so long as the communications centers possess basic voice call equipment.

Abstract: A method, apparatus, and computer program product are provided for estimating parking likelihood in an area based on probe data points. A method may include: receiving probe data points associated with a plurality of vehicles; determining location data, heading data, and speed data from each probe data point; categorizing a probe data point as a driving probe data point in response to the heading data corresponding with heading data of a road proximate the location of the probe data point and the speed data of the probe data point being above a predefined value; categorizing a probe data point as a parking probe data point in response to the heading data failing to correspond with heading data of a road; determining a ratio of driving probe data points to parking probe data points; and providing an indication of parking locations in at least one region of a map in response to the parking likelihood for the locations satisfying a predetermined criteria.

Abstract: A communication device for wireless communication in a mobile radio network is included in a controller installed in a motor vehicle. The controller also includes a connection device which connects to at least one bus system of the motor vehicle and a computer device for controlling the exchange of data between the at least one bus system and the mobile radio network and/or an external network. The communication device has, in addition to a connection to a controller-external mobile radio antenna, an additional mobile radio antenna which is integrated into the controller and is to be used in the event of failure of the controller-external mobile radio antenna. The communication device outputs an emergency call signal to the mobile radio network when an emergency trigger signal is received via the bus system and/or some other communication connection.

Abstract: A system includes one or more processors configured to detect activation of an alarm trigger in communication with the one or more processors. The processors are further configured to determine a type of trigger and provide a subtle feedback response, based on the type of trigger, designed to avoid detection by an assailant. The processors are additionally configured to wirelessly contact an emergency responder and provide data usable in determining a vehicle location and a vehicle identification.

Abstract: A vehicle communication system facilitates hands-free interaction with a mobile device in a vehicle or elsewhere. Users interact with the system by speaking to it. The system processes text and processes commands. The system supports wireless technology for hands-free use. The system handles telephone calls, email, and SMS text messages. The user can customize the device via a user profile stored on an Internet web server. The system also includes a plurality of power conservation features.

Abstract: A wireless network has a plurality of nodes that are configured to communicate electrical signals via a backhaul channel in which messages hop from node-to-node through the network. The nodes have optical transmitters for communicating with tags via an optical channel that is time division multiplexed (TDM) among the nodes of the network. The nodes are configured to transmit an electrical synchronization signal via the backhaul channel and to synchronize transmissions for the optical channel based on the electrical synchronization signal. Thus, use of the backhaul channel to communicate the synchronization signal leverages the existing framework of the network in order to synchronize the optical transmitters without requiring specialized synchronization circuitry, and a robust TDM algorithm can be implemented for the optical channel with relatively low complexity and costs.

Abstract: A vehicle computer system includes one or more processors configured to receive context data representative of a vehicle's environment from one or more modules. The one or more processors are programmed and configured to receive the context data from one or more modules, determine an attention demand value utilizing the context data and a workload value corresponding to the context data, and output an indicator to activate or adjust a do not disturb feature based on the attention demand value.

Abstract: Certain embodiments of the invention may include systems, methods, and apparatus for in vehicle fiducial mark tracking and interpretation According to an example embodiment of the invention, a method is provided for executing computer executable instructions by one or more processors. The method includes receiving the one or more images from at least one camera attached to a vehicle; selecting, from the one or more received images, a region of interest associated with an object in the vehicle; identifying fiducial marks within the selected region of interest by comparing the identified fiducial marks with one or more stored fiducial representations; determining, based at least in part on the comparison, spatial information associated with the object or an occupant of the vehicle; and sending information based at least in part on the determined spatial information.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and methods for notifying first responders of the general or specific location of a security crisis or threat in a building or public location, and the type of threat or crisis that has occurred, while notifying building occupants or others in the public location of the crisis and how to respond. The crisis notification system alarm system can provide critical information to the first responders, including location of crisis and whether the crisis location is changing, audio and video of the crisis arena, communications with designated occupants in the crisis arena, and other information. The crisis notification system can be scaled to allow the effective use in facilities of differing sizes and layouts. The system is also flexible, enabling the system to integrate with currently existing systems or to operate with new devices.

Abstract: Operating state information is received at an on-board telematics control unit (TCU) from an on-board diagnostic (OBD) system of a vehicle. The TCU transmits an indication of vehicle state over at least a wireless data link component of a communications network for delivery to a mobile computing device. The mobile computing device receives the indication of vehicle state and utilizes the indication of vehicle state at a mobile application program. In one example, the mobile application program presents vehicle state information via a graphical display of the mobile computing device. In another example, the mobile application program augments a functionality of the mobile computing device responsive to the indication of vehicle state.

Abstract: Methods and systems are disclosed for authorizing operation of an electric vehicle that is being charged at a charging station. A computer can determine whether predefined criteria relating to the electric vehicle have been satisfied, and, if so, communicates a virtual key to the electric vehicle. The virtual key allows the electric vehicle to be operated in a limited operating mode that defines constraints on operating the vehicle. The virtual key allows the electric vehicle to be operated in the limited operating mode without a physical key or fob being present at the electric vehicle. The electric vehicle includes a processor configured to receive the virtual key and to control operation of the electric vehicle according to the constraints defined by the virtual key.

Abstract: A vehicle alarm communication system is provided, comprising a handheld electronic device and a vehicle system that utilizes a global positioning satellite (GPS) network and a cellular network to communicate the status of a parked vehicle. The vehicle system comprises a vehicle alarm that monitors the vehicle status when parked, a processing means, and a pair of antennas for communicating data to the key fob using a cellular network and a GPS network. The location of the vehicle is tracked in real-time via the GPS network for vehicle tracking or vehicle locating, while the cellular network is used to communicate status alerts to the key fob. The alerts communicate possible break-ins, vehicle collisions or similar vehicle alarm system changes in state. The use of dual networks allows the systems to communicate data to the user simultaneously, or in lieu of one another if one network is not available.

Abstract: Disclosed are an electronic device case for providing tactile feedback and an operation method thereof. The electronic device case for providing tactile feedback, includes: a communication interface unit receiving a control signal from an electronic device according to an operation of the electronic device; an actuator driver generating an electric signal corresponding to preset tactile pattern data according to the received control signal; and one or more film type actuators provided to contact the actuator driver and varying physical properties according to the control signal.

Abstract: The vehicular anti-theft device is a generally planar matt that includes a plurality of pressure sensors used to detect the presence of a weight thereon, and which is configured for placement under a tire of a vehicle. The matt includes a control panel to input a code to able and disable the alarm function. The alarm function is designed to detect a change in the weight associated with theft of a respective vehicle. The matt may include an array of solar cells on a top surface, which provides alternative means of powering the alarm function. The alarm includes a speaker to emit an audible alarm or alternatively cellular telephone capability in order to signal an alarm via a text message, phone message, or e-mail.

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 system and method for identifying, tracking and locating stolen bicycles (missing chattels) in an urban area from a plurality of stations. A passive RFID memory based transponder is manufactured into the hollow metal frame of a bicycle (missing chattel) during manufacture. The passive memory based transponder is engaged and powered up by a tag initiation process which emanates from a cellular telephone tower using microwave frequencies. This process is initiated upon a report of the bicycle (missing chattel) being stolen. It is then powered from an internal generator driven by the rotation of the axle of the bicycle, or similar conveyance, with chargeable battery assist. Missing chattel is defined herein as a bicycle, motorcycle, car, truck, bus, tractor trailer or other similar conveyance.

Abstract: Architecture that employs crowd-sourced parking-related information to compute the probability of finding parking spots at specific road segments, parking lots, and/or in larger geographic areas. The crowd-sourced parking-related information can be obtained from geolocation (geographical location) traces. This approach utilizes a method of mining location traces to compute the probability of finding parking spots at specific road segments, parking lots, and/or in larger geographic areas. The location traces can be mined to classify parking areas as public, private, and semi-private (e.g., only for company employees in certain area that also include public parking areas). The location traces can be mined to infer the times and dates (e.g., hours of the day and the days of the week) during which a vehicle is allowed to park at a given location.

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: 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: Remote tamper detection. At least some of the example embodiments are methods including: tracking location of an asset by an onboard device mechanically coupled to the asset, the onboard device electrically coupled to a source of power of the asset, and the onboard device receiving power from the asset; detecting a loss of power provided to the onboard device, the loss of power indicative of tampering with the onboard device, and the detecting by the onboard device; and sending a message by wireless transmission, the message indicative of tampering with the onboard device, and the sending by the onboard device during the loss of power.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a security module deployed in a host device, which provides a secondary agent that operates in coordination with the host agent in the host device, but operates independent of the host operating system of the host device to independently access an existing communication network interface in the host device or a separate dedicated network interface, if available. In one aspect, the present invention enables robust theft recovery and asset tracking services. The system comprises a monitoring center; one or more monitored devices; a security module in the monitored devices; and one or more active communications networks. Monitored devices may be stand alone devices, such as computers (e.g., portable or desktop computers), or a device or a subsystem included in a system. A monitored device comprises a security module, a host agent and software to support the host agent that runs in the monitored device's OS.

Abstract: Communications are established and conducted between a communication and jamming detection at a vehicle and a base station. At the communication and jamming detection device, a determination is made as to when jamming of the communications between the communication and jamming detection device and the base station is occurring. When jamming is determined to be occurring, at least one location determination signal is transmitted from the communication and jamming detection device to at least one external tracking device. At the at least one external location determination device, the at least one location determination signal is received from the communication and jamming detection device. The location of the communication and jamming detection device at the vehicle is determined from the at least one location determination signal.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a method includes obtaining mobility information associated with a remote device. The mobility information indicates whether the remote device is approximately stationary. The remote device interacts with a server. The method also includes determining if the mobility information indicates that the remote device is approximately stationary, and selecting a first profile of a plurality of profiles if the remote device is approximately stationary. If the remote device is not approximately stationary, a second profiled of the plurality of profiles is selected.

Abstract: A wearable control terminal for allowing a user to control a target object includes a contact detector, an impact detector, a motion detector, and a transmitter. The contact detector is mounted on a surface of a first portion of a user's body to detect whether the first portion is in contact with or separated from a second portion of the body based on whether a closed loop conducting path is formed with the first portion and the second portion. The impact detector detects an impact on the control terminal. The motion detector detects a motion of the user based on the results of detection by the contact detector and the impact detector. The transmitter transmits a control signal to the target object according to the detected motion.

Abstract: A vehicle control system that contains a control module configured to wirelessly communicate with a mobile device to upload and download user specific settings that may be stored on the mobile device. The mobile device may also be configured to enable the ignition system once the vehicle authenticates the mobile device and remote keyless entry system. The memory of the mobile device is read and write capable, allowing for data to be used by the control module in conjunction with several automobile systems, and allowing for data to be transferred from said systems to the portable memory device by the control module, thus facilitating vehicle operation.

Abstract: Techniques for delivering and receiving emergency broadcast alert messages using Short Message Service (SMS) are described, In one design, a broadcast alert message for an emergency alert may be sent in an SMS broadcast message, e.g., by mapping at least one field of the broadcast alert message to corresponding Held(s) of the SMS broadcast message and mapping remaining Fields of the broadcast alert message to a data Field of the SMS broadcast message. The SMS broadcast message may include a website URI link, broadcast reception information, location information for an emergency event, etc. The SMS broadcast message may be carried in a system broadcast message sent to wireless devices. A wireless device may receive the system broadcast message, extract the SMS broadcast message, and obtain the broadcast alert message. The wireless device may detect for duplicate broadcast messages based on a hash digest generated for each broadcast message.

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 tracking system for food products includes labeled food product packages and labeled containers for transporting the labeled packages to harvest sites. A data-clearing center receives mobile phone communications from the harvest sites for uploading the container codes. Ancillary information collected from the mobile phone communications including the time, date, location, and phone identification is associated with the container codes for linking the labeled food product packages to details of their harvest.