Abstract: A system includes a display screen positioned to display on an exterior of a host vehicle, a user interface of the host vehicle, and a computer communicatively coupled to the display screen and the user interface. The computer is programmed to, in response to detecting a target vehicle having prespecified indicia, instruct the user interface to output an instruction to an occupant of the host vehicle, and in response to detecting personnel from the target vehicle, instruct the display screen to output a message to the personnel.

Abstract: A method and security system for preventing misuse of sensitive information entered by an authorized person, including an input interface; a camera a memory configured to store information; a processing circuitry connected to the input interface, the camera and the memory configured to cause security system to activate a first input session wherein the input interface is adapted to receive input of sensitive information by a first person in an operational vicinity of the input interface; detect, by the camera unit, a second face of a second person at a second distance from the input interface; and store a first security association data comprising information regarding the first input session and information about the second person in the memory for preventing misuse of sensitive information.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and software for monitoring and controlling a security system for a structure are provided herein. An exemplary method may include receiving sensor data from at least one first peripheral, the sensor data associated with at least one of activity inside and activity outside of a structure; determining a critical event based in part on the sensor data; creating an alert based in part on the critical event; getting user preferences associated with at least one of a user and a base unit; determining a response based in part on the alert and user preferences; and activating at least one of a second peripheral and a service based in part on the response.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for assisting in a parking operation for a motor vehicle (1) using a driver assistance system (2). The driver assistance system (2) determines a parking path along which the motor vehicle (1) can be parked into a parking space (21) or driven out of the parking space (21). Image data about surroundings (10 to 13) of the motor vehicle (1) are captured by at least one optical capture device (5a to 5d) of the driver assistance system (2). The image data are processed to produce an image (19) which shows a perspective view of at least one surrounding area (20) next to the motor vehicle (1). The image (19) is displayed on a display device (3). The image (19) is produced by taking account of a current position of the motor vehicle (1) on the calculated parking path. By way of example, a direction of view (14) and/or a field of view (15) from which the perspective view is shown can be set on the basis of the current position of the motor vehicle (1) on the parking path.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and software for monitoring and controlling a security system for a structure are provided herein. An exemplary method may include receiving sensor data from at least one first peripheral, the sensor data associated with at least one of activity inside and activity outside of a structure; determining a critical event based in part on the sensor data; creating an alert based in part on the critical event; getting user preferences associated with at least one of a user and a base unit; determining a response based in part on the alert and user preferences; and activating at least one of a second peripheral and a service based in part on the response.

Abstract: A system includes a security monitoring device in a monitored physical location, a security processing system, and one or more mobile devices. The one or more mobile devices are configured to communicate with the security monitoring device over a network and the security monitoring device is configured to communicate with the security processing system via the network. The security monitoring device and the security processing system device are configured to arm and disarm based on geolocation data associated with at least one of the mobile user devices.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and software for monitoring and controlling a security system for a structure are provided herein. An exemplary method may include receiving sensor data from at least one first peripheral, the sensor data associated with at least one of activity inside and activity outside of a structure; determining a critical event based in part on the sensor data; creating an alert based in part on the critical event; getting user preferences associated with at least one of a user and a base unit; determining a response based in part on the alert and user preferences; and activating at least one of a second peripheral and a service based in part on the response.

Abstract: A method of controlling operation of a security device in a location by a mobile user device, comprises monitoring a region around a location of interest, via a mobile user device; providing at least one security device within the region, wherein the security device comprises at least one sensor to monitor a location. The user device recognizes that the user device has entered the region, and searches for a security device within the region. The security device is detected and at least certain security features and/or sensors are disarmed. Disarming may mean that at least certain notifications are not sent about the status of the location. When the user device recognizes that the device is leaving the region, security features and/or sensors may be armed.

Abstract: A portable alarm system designed for unoccupied unsecured locations, such as construction sites, machinery, campsites and the like. The alarm system defines a continuous monitoring line about the perimeter of the unsecured location using a plurality of wireless sensors attached to a flexible non-stretchable tape suspended between to vertical poles. The system has motion-sensing/detecting capabilities such that any movement of a housing where the microprocessor of the system is located generates audible/visual alarm. Each of the wireless sensors has a magnet and a transmitter positionable within a predetermined distance from the magnet. If the intruder tampers with the tape and increases the distance between the magnet the transmitter, the alarm is activated as well.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for notifying an operator that a door of a vehicle is locked. The method can include receiving a request to lock a lock associated with the door, and determining an ambient lighting condition associated with the vehicle. Based upon the ambient lighting condition, outputting audible data, visual data or both audible data and visual data to indicate that the door is locked.

Abstract: An image processing device configured to be installed in a vehicle includes an image acquirer, an image selector, a first luminance adjuster, a synthetic image generator, and an image provider. The image acquirer acquires camera images captured by cameras provided on the vehicle. The image selector selects one of the camera images as a representative image based on luminances of the camera images. The first luminance adjuster adjusts a luminance of at least one of the other camera images based on a luminance of the representative image. The synthetic image generator generates a synthetic image showing a periphery of the vehicle, based on the representative image and the other camera images the luminance of at least one of which has been adjusted by the first adjuster. The image provider outputs, to a display device installed in the vehicle, information corresponding to the synthetic image.

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: A system and method for a vehicle includes a user identification subsystem operable to detect an individual proximate to the vehicle and a display subsystem operable to generate output for display on a vehicle window in response to detection the. The system and method distinguish between authenticated and non-authenticated vehicle users and, in the event of a non-authenticated user, display the image on the display along with an optional printed and/or audible warning. If both an authenticated and non-authenticated user are identified, the system displays both images along with an optional warning. The images along with the vehicle coordinates and date and time information can be transmitted remotely from the vehicle to a pre-defined contact list. The system and method allow for a camera mode to enable an authenticated user to use the image sensor on the vehicle to take a photograph or video.

Abstract: Provided are an apparatus and method for monitoring tire pressure, and in particular, a method of identifying a position of a TPM sensor attached to a tire using tooth data of ABS. The apparatus identifies the position of the TPM sensor using a point where tooth data of ABS has a variation different for each wheel, by estimating wheel tooth data from wheel position angle information measured by a rotation sensor of the TPM sensor, comparing the actual measured value with the estimated value, and recognizing that the TPM sensor is attached to a tire where the actual measured value is the same as or closest to the estimated value.

Abstract: A car alarm apparatus includes a first horn; a second horn; an electrical source; a theft detection section; a horn switch; a first relay closed when the horn switch is operated; a first fuse connected to the electrical source in series with the first relay and the first horn; a second fuse connected to the electrical source separately from the first fuse; and a second relay connected to the electrical source in series with the second fuse and the second horn, wherein the second relay includes a first contact that connects the second horn to an electrical source through the first fuse and the first relay in parallel with the first horn and a second contact that connects the second horn to the electrical source through the second fuse, and closes the second contact when the occurrence of the theft is detected.

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 device for detecting a vehicle passing by a vehicle in the dark. A camera detects a light cone that is moving at a lateral offset relative to the vehicle. An analyzer device assigns the relatively moving light cone to the passing vehicle.

Abstract: A remote starting system for an engine of a vehicle includes a remote start handheld unit. A remote start controller may be positioned at the vehicle for starting the engine based upon the remote start handheld unit and causing the engine to run for a run time period before shutting off the vehicle engine. The remote start controller is resettable based upon the remote start handheld unit to cause the engine to run for an additional run time period while the engine is still running and before shutting off the engine. The remote start handheld unit includes an audible indicator for providing an audible indication to a user prior to expiration of the run time period to permit a user to use the remote start handheld unit to reset the run time period while the engine is still running and before shutting off the engine.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a system for automatically adjusting a vehicle feature of a vehicle, where the system includes a first sensor, an onboard computer, a camera, a mirror, a controller; an actuator; and an algorithm. The algorithm instructs the onboard computer in steps for adjusting one or more vehicle features. The first sensor and the controller are in electronic communication with the onboard computer and the controller is in electronic communication with one or more actuators that connect to and adjust the various vehicle features. The onboard computer includes or accesses a database that correlates users, features, and vehicle feature settings. Such vehicle features include seat position and camera viewing angle.

Abstract: A door handle, for opening and closing a door such as a vehicular door, includes: a transmitting antenna, transmitting a communication signal to a portable device carried by a user; an indicating portion, optically indicating a state of the door, including locked and unlocked states of the door, to the user with a visible light; and a first power supply portion, electromagnetically coupled to the transmitting antenna and supplying electric power to the indicating portion in response to a transmission of the communication signal.

Abstract: A remote starting system for an engine of a vehicle includes a remote start handheld unit. A remote start controller may be positioned at the vehicle for starting the engine based upon the remote start handheld unit and causing the engine to run for a run time period before shutting off the vehicle engine. The remote start controller is resettable based upon the remote start handheld unit to cause the engine to run for an additional run time period while the engine is still running and before shutting off the engine. The remote start handheld unit includes a tactile indicator for providing a tactile indication to a user prior to expiration of the run time period to permit a user to use the remote start handheld unit to reset the run time period while the engine is still running and before shutting off the engine.

Abstract: A vehicle presence notification apparatus uses several ultrasonic transducer devices to generate a notice sound by emitting an ultrasonic wave in mid air based on an ultrasonic signal modulated according to an audible sound. At least one of the speaker-use ultrasonic transducer devices is a two-way transducer device that is enabled to perform not only transmission but also reception of an ultrasonic wave. When a vehicle velocity is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the two-way transducer device is caused to function as an ultrasonic sensor. Thus, even when the generation of any notice sound is unnecessary due to the vehicle velocity being fast, the vehicle presence notification apparatus can be used as an ultrasonic sensor to measure a distance with an obstacle outside of the vehicle.

Abstract: To provide a vehicle rear-view mirror equipped with a display device, configured so that: a warning indication is easy to see from the driver and is hard to see from following vehicles and vehicles on the adjacent lanes; and when no warning is indicated, no discontinuities occur in the rear-area image reflected in the mirror and the warning symbol is unnoticeable. A mirror element 18 is configured by forming a semi-transmissive reflective film 24 or 56 formed of a dielectric multilayer film on the back or front surface of a transparent glass substrate 22. A dark color mask member 26 is arranged on the back surface of the mirror element 18. An opening 26a is formed on the mask member 26. A light-orienting tube 28 is arranged in such a manner that it protrudes in the backward direction of the mask member 26 so as to surround the opening 26a. The tube axis 28a of the light-orienting tube 28 is inclined in the direction toward the driver's viewpoint.

Abstract: The present invention describes a car anti-theft system. Specifically, the present invention has an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) patterned onto a visible surface of a vehicle. Vehicle theft is recognized when an unauthorized driver fails to enter a predetermined code, resulting in lighting of OLED. Lighted OLED may be seen by passers-by who may then alert police that a car is in the process of being stolen. Alternatively and additionally, OLED's may be integrated into primary car alarm systems so as to add an additional, visual, layer of car protection.

Abstract: An optical system for detecting ice and water on the surface of an aircraft includes an elongated transparent optical element having first and second end portions. A light source and light detector are disposed in one end of the optical element and a reflective surface is disposed in the opposite end portion. The reflective surface defines a critical angle and reflects light from the light source to the light detector when the critical angle is in contact with air and refracts the light toward the external environment when the reflective surface is in contact with ice or water. The system may also incorporate an optical element wherein the reflective surface includes a continuous array of convex elements extending outwardly from and across one end of the optical element and wherein each of the convex elements defines a critical angle.

Abstract: An access arrangement for a vehicle (FZ) has a transmit/receive device on the vehicle side (19) to transmit one or several interrogation signals. In addition, the access arrangement has a mobile identification generator (IDI, IDA) with a transmit/receive device on the identification generator side (SE) to receive interrogation signals from the transmit/receive device on the vehicle side and to evaluate signal characteristics of the interrogation signals at at least two different points in time. The mobile identification generator furthermore has a control device (ST) to output a different control command depending on a change (?FS, ?FR) in the evaluated signal characteristics. In the event of no change or a small change in the signal characteristics, a signal may be output to deactivate the identification generator, while in the event of a marked change a locking signal to lock a door (TFZ) of the vehicle may be output.

Abstract: Current position of a vehicle and current time are acquired. A user recognizing unit recognizes a user. A pattern recognizing unit detects location of a portable device and movement thereof. Operation state of an engine is acquired from an engine control mechanism. Based on the information, processes are performed such as switching communication stand-by mode of the portable device to active stand-by mode, notifying the portable device of a transition of an on-board terminal to automatic locking mode, preventing needless unlocking and locking of doors, and setting warning mode of the portable device.

Abstract: A glass break detector is provided with microphones for detecting glass breaking, and microphones for detecting noise, and generating a noise output once a noise is detected. The noise output triggers a video camera to record in the area of the glass break detector. Also, a security apparatus is provided, having a video dome, a video camera provided in the video dome, and one or more microphones provided on an outside surface of the video dome. If a noise is detected by the one or more microphones, the video camera points to a direction of the noise by determining the time of arrival of the noise, and the camera begins to record.

Abstract: A transmission ECU on a transmission side and reception ECUs on a reception side are connected through communication lines and junction connectors. A delay circuit is provided in each of the junction connectors on the side of the reception ECUs. One end of the delay circuit is connected to the communication line on the side of the transmission ECU and the other end of the same is connected to the communication line on the side of the reception ECU. The communication lines on the both ends of the delay circuit are grounded through termination resistors.

Abstract: Embodiments disclosed herein provide for an apparatus and method for input/output management in a mobile environment. One embodiment includes a mobile unit comprising at least one processor, a data bus interface and a computer readable memory persistently storing a unique hardware identification. The mobile unit can receive a wireless signal and, based on the wireless signal, communicate a set of data across the data bus. The persistent unique hardware identification of the mobile unit is used to restrict access to data received at the mobile unit via the wireless signal.

Abstract: An optical system for detecting ice and water on the surface of an aircraft includes an elongated transparent optical element having first and second end portions. A light source and light detector are disposed in one end of the optical element and a reflective surface is disposed in the opposite end portion. The reflective surface defines a critical angle and reflects light from the light source to the light detector when the critical angle is in contact with air and refracts the light toward the external environment when the reflective surface is in contact with ice or water. The system may also incorporate an optical element wherein the reflective surface includes a continuous array of convex elements extending outwardly from and across one end of the optical element and wherein each of the convex elements defines a critical angle.

Abstract: The invention teaches a passive vehicle rear end warning and collision prevention method and apparatus thereof, comprising: a traveling data monitoring unit serving to monitor and sample the traveling data of present vehicle; a collision prevention information transmitting and receiving unit serving to transmit and receive the collision prevention information; an electronic control unit serving to analyze and process the sampled data so as to generate the collision prevention information and to receive the collision prevention information from other vehicle, and to control the traveling status of prevent vehicle based on the received collision prevention information so as to avoid rear end collision with other vehicle, so that the purpose of rear end warning and collision prevention is realized by receiving passively the collision prevention information from another vehicle.

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

Abstract: The present invention is a vehicle observation apparatus for reducing the risk of injury to law enforcement persons during vehicle stops. The invention is also a vehicle equipped with the vehicle observation apparatus. In an embodiment, the apparatus may include a mast being mountable to and deployable from a law enforcement vehicle, means for two-way communication and observation secured about one end of the mast, means for operating the mast, and means for operating the means for two-way communication and observation. The mast may be telescopic and adapted to be placed in at least a first position and a second position, or may be non-telescopic and in an extended position when in use. In another embodiment, the invention may be a similar apparatus wherein the mast is mountable to and deployable from a check point structure.

Abstract: An audio signal system for a vehicle remote locking mechanism provides an audio signal that is more intricate than a simple, sounding of the vehicle's horn or beep tone. Preferably, the audio signal may be varied among many possible sounds by the operator. More preferably, the system includes a digital audio source with a signal amplifier and loudspeaker. Most preferably, the digital audio source is programmable with recorded sounds that can be transferred from a remote bank of digital sounds, for example by being downloaded from an internet website.

Abstract: The present invention describes a car anti-theft system. Specifically, the present invention has an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) patterned onto a visible surface of a vehicle. Vehicle theft is recognized when an unauthorized driver fails to enter a predetermined code, resulting in lighting of OLED. Lighted OLED may be seen by passers-by who may then alert police that a car is in the process of being stolen. Alternatively and additionally, OLED's may be integrated into primary car alarm systems so as to add an additional, visual, layer of car protection.

Abstract: A light bar is described that is of a modular construction based on one or more large circuit boards that are populated with light beam assemblies and then fastened to an interior space of the light bar housing. Keys that automatically align the light beam assemblies on each of the boards precisely control placement of the assemblies on the board. In turn, each of the boards is keyed to the interior of the light bar housing so that when the board is fastened to the housing the light beam assemblies are automatically registered into alignment with the lenses in the housing so that the beams from the assemblies are properly oriented. The light bar is inexpensive to fabricate and can be assembled quickly and reliably, yet it provides for a high degree of customization, which is a requirement in the emergency vehicle lighting industry.

Abstract: A function operation warning device according to the invention includes a receiving portion that receives a control signal transmitted from an external remote transmitter; a definition portion that stores information that is used to determine whether an audible warning is generated in response to the control signal; an audible warning setting portion that stores settings concerning at least one of enable/disable of generation of the audible warning and a sound volume; a warning determination portion that determines, using the definition portion, whether the audible warning is generated, when the control signal is received; and a warning generation portion that generates the audible warning at a predetermined sound volume regardless of the settings stored in the audible warning setting portion, when the audible warning is generated as a result of determination made by the warning determination portion.

Abstract: A safety unit for use on vehicles such as school buses. In one embodiment, a housing is provided for the drive motor and related elements for moving a stop sign on the side of the bus between its retracted and extended positions. The housing has a removable cover to provide access to the drive motor and related elements, and the stop sign is mounted on a driveshaft that extends through a single opening in the bottom wall of the housing. In a second embodiment the safety unit is integrated with an access panel on the school bus.

Abstract: The security system determines if the cargo area of a vehicle may have been opened in transit between a loading location and a destination location. The vehicle has an enclosed cargo area with a cargo door and lock. The system includes a digital counter which displays a number set thereon after the cargo area has been secured by locking the cargo door lock or by closing the cargo door. If a magnetic reed switch senses the unlocking of the cargo door lock or the opening of the cargo door after the cargo area has been secured, it causes the number on the counter to change. The set number is forwarded to the destination location by entering it on the shipping documents or transmitting it electronically. At the destination location, it can be determined if the cargo area may have been accessed in transit by comparing the set number forwarded to the recipient by the shipper with the number displayed on the counter when the vehicle reaches the destination location.

Abstract: An automobile steering wheel lock with an alarm includes a lock having a lock core with a chamber containing an alarm and at least one light hole. The alarm consists of a circuit board, a battery, a buzzer and a touch switch. The circuit board capable of sending signals has a warning light and a high-density LED light. Also, a help-signaling device is installed at a conspicuous location of a car and provided with at least one lamp panel. Each lamp panel is provided with a wireless receiver for receiving signals from the alarm and formed of luminescent lamps or LED lamps to show help signals. So, should the buzzer be moved by a burglar, it would sound immediately, spontaneously activating the high-density LED light to radiate toward the driver's seat and the lamp panel lit, achieving multiple anti-theft effects.

Abstract: A signal assembly mountable to an exterior of a vehicle is configured with a light-generating unit operable to emit a visually perceptible signal, and with a sound-generating unit operable to generate a sound signal. The light and sound generating units are coupled to one another to form a unitary assembly.

Abstract: A rear vision system having a divided lens configuration and sensor array. The sensor array has a first, second section and third sections. The lens configuration includes a first portion directing a first field of view onto the first section of the sensor array, and a second portion directing a second field of view onto the second section of the sensor array. The sensor array may be a complementary metal oxide semiconductor camera or a charge coupled device camera.

Abstract: A remote control for a garage door opener includes a transmitter for transmitting electromagnetic signals and at least one manual actuator. The transmitter can be arranged in flexible mounting areas inside or outside the motor vehicle and can be spatially separate from the manual actuator. To this end, the invention provides a remote garage door opener that is integrated into the control system that is present in a motor vehicle in such a manner that the manual actuator and the transmitter device are linked with each other via at least one control device that is located in the motor vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle recovery system and method are disclosed. The system and method disable a misappropriated vehicle, position and ignite a smoke flare for ready detection of the public as to the whereabouts of the vehicle and provide a recovery center service. Use of unlicensed wireless data radio spectrum is used thus avoiding the cost of maintaining a mobile phone subscription for a dedicated on-boar phone. Part of the system and method is to run a campaign to inform the public as to the significance of the flare discharge. Further the campaign also advises the public to place a call to local law enforcement agency or the recovery service agency holding out an incentive to do so.

Abstract: A combination vehicle alarm and locator device. The device includes a housing, a vehicle alarm activator positioned within the housing including a transmitter for activating an alarm system on a vehicle and an infrared transmitting device located in the housing for communicating with a Global Positioning Satellite system for determining a location of the device. A key ring selectively extends from a side of the housing. The vehicle alarm activator includes an alarm activation button extending from the housing for activating the vehicle alarm activator to transmit the infrared signal. The transmitter device includes a processor, a memory device for storing identification information concerning the device and an activation button for activating the processor to retrieve the identification information from the memory for transmission to the Global Positioning Satellite system.

Abstract: An alarm system for use with a motor vehicle to sound an alert whenever child passengers are left unattended and belted in a parked motor vehicle, including a transmitter for generating a radio signal characterized by a predetermined frequency, a receiver for receiving and rectifying the radio signal, a sensor for sending an ignition status signal to the receiver if the vehicle ignition is on, a timer for sending an activation signal in response to the receiver receiving the radio message and the ignition status signal, and an alarm for generating an audible signal in response to receipt of the activation signal.

Abstract: To issue a warning against an improper (a lowered) air pressure in accordance with a vehicle state and driver's presence/absence, the warning system includes air pressure measuring means for measuring an air pressure of a tire of a vehicle; air pressure judging means for judging whether or not the air pressure is proper; warning issuing means for issuing, if a result of the judgment is negative, a warning; and driver on-board judging means for judging whether or not a driver is on board the vehicle; and driver detecting means for detecting whether or not the driver is in the proximity to the vehicle. If the results of the judgments by the air pressure judging means and the driver on-board judging means are negative and a result of the detection by the driver detecting means is positive, the warning issuing means issues the warning outside the vehicle.

Abstract: A remote key entry system has a key unit and an answerback sound producing device. The key unit transmits a radio signal for remote-controlled locking and unlocking of a vehicle. The answerback sound producing device receives the key signal to indicate completion of correct locking or unlocking of the vehicle. The remote key entry system includes an environmental data sensing devices for obtaining data of an environment around the vehicle for control of the answerback sound. The system also has an answerback sound control device for controlling at least one of sound volume and tone of the answerback sound based on the environment data. The environmental data sensing device is an illumination sensing device for detecting environmental illuminance around the vehicle. The answerback sound control device varies the sound volume proportional to the illuminance.

Abstract: When multiple cameras (CAM1) to (CAM8) for shooting the periphery of a local vehicle are mounted on the vehicle, and when obtained camera images are to be synthesized to display a synthesized image on the screen of a display device (16), the pixel data for the camera images constituting the synthesized image are compensated for, so that differences in the pixel data for adjacent camera images is reduced. For example, the pixel data are corrected so their values equal the average values of the pixel data for the adjacent camera images. Therefore, an easily viewed image, produced by synthesizing the images obtained by the multiple vehicle cameras, can be displayed on the monitor device (16).