Reminder Patents (Class 340/457)
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Patent number: 10275670Abstract: Systems and methods for using image analysis techniques to assess abnormal vehicle operating conditions are disclosed. According to aspects, a computing device may access and analyze image data depicting an individual(s) within a vehicle. Based on the depicted individuals(s) and optionally on other data, the computing device may determine that an abnormal condition exists. In response, the computing device may generate a notification and transmit the notification to an electronic device of an individual associated with the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2018Date of Patent: April 30, 2019Assignee: STATE FARM MUTUAL AUTOMOBILE INSURANCE COMPANYInventors: Yuntao Li, Dingchao Zhang, Jeffrey S. Myers
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Patent number: 10245974Abstract: A vehicle detection system includes an RFID reader, a detection device, and an ECU. The RFID reader transmits a transmission signal including at least a signal that supplies power. The detection device includes a second antenna unit that mutually transmits and receives a signal to and from the RFID reader, an RFID detection circuit that is activated using the signal that supplies power included in the transmission signal received by the second antenna unit as driving power and that outputs a detection signal to the second antenna unit, and a switch circuit that switches an electrical connection portion between the second antenna unit and the RFID detection circuit to a contact state or to a non-contact state according to a state inside the vehicle. The ECU determines the state inside the vehicle on the basis of the detection signal received by the RFID reader.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2018Date of Patent: April 2, 2019Assignee: YAZAKI CORPORATIONInventors: Ryohei Nishizaki, You Yanagida
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Patent number: 10197980Abstract: A vehicle window system may include a switching mechanism having a plurality of window selector buttons each corresponding to one of a plurality of windows, and a single drive button for receiving input to move one or more of the windows according to statuses of the selector buttons. The window system may also include a controller configured to lock one of the windows in response to an indication that the window selector button corresponding to the one of the windows has been depressed for at least a predefined amount of time.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2014Date of Patent: February 5, 2019Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Rafael Rego, Russell Allan Sims, Glen D. Skinner
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Patent number: 10124724Abstract: A number of illustrative variations may include a method of using sequential logic and vehicle sensors to produce a notification.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2015Date of Patent: November 13, 2018Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Fred W. Huntzicker, William A. Biondo, Julie A. Kleinert
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Patent number: 10108191Abstract: Method and apparatus are disclosed for a driver interactive system for semi-autonomous modes of a vehicle. An example disclosed vehicle with semiautonomous features includes memory and a processor. The example processor causes the vehicle to determine, with a driver identification sensor, the identity of a driver. The example processor also causes the vehicle to determine which semiautonomous features are flagged for training based on a driver profile of the identified driver. Additionally, the example processor causes the vehicle to, in response to the driver activating one of the flagged semiautonomous features, provide an audiovisual description of the semiautonomous feature.Type: GrantFiled: January 6, 2017Date of Patent: October 23, 2018Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Thomas Edward Pilluti, Shane Elwart, Aaron L. Mills, John Shutko
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Patent number: 10050465Abstract: A screen rack for two screens, comprising a case for electric components, whereby power supply adapters for a PC and two screens that can be installed on the screen rack are arranged in the case.Type: GrantFiled: July 15, 2016Date of Patent: August 14, 2018Assignee: MODINICE GmbHInventor: Michael Finckh
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Patent number: 10043364Abstract: Provided is a security device, comprising: a sensor that senses a presence in a vehicle and generates a presence signal; an ignition state detection device that detects a state of the vehicle, and generates a status signal; and a rules processor that determines from the presence signal and the status signal whether an alarm or message is to be generated.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 2017Date of Patent: August 7, 2018Assignee: WALMART APOLLO, LLCInventor: Juana Gabriela Garcia
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Patent number: 10005407Abstract: Motor vehicle configuration system, including a motor vehicle, in the interior of which at least one transponder that is capable of wireless near field communication is attached and which has a receiving unit for wireless reception of vehicle configuration data over a wireless communication link independent of the wireless near field communication. A portable device has at least one data memory for storing the memory data and has a transmitting unit for a wireless transmission of data on the basis of the memory data. The portable device is programmed such that, when an approach of the portable device to a transponder is detected on the basis of wireless near field communication, the data are transferred from the portable device to the motor vehicle a wireless communication link between the transmitting unit and the receiving unit for the purpose of providing the motor vehicle with configuration data. The communication link is independent of the wireless near field communication.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2011Date of Patent: June 26, 2018Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Joerg Preissinger, Tobias Schoellermann, Rainer Steffen
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Patent number: 10008087Abstract: A proximity based ad-hoc messaging, alerting, and tracking system can be employed to quickly and efficiently propagate alerts when a child or other individual becomes lost. Various types of alerts can be provided to facilitate locating a lost individual even in scenarios where a network connection or GPS is not available. The system can also be employed to track the presence of an individual after traveling in a vehicle to enable detecting when the individual has been separated from all guardians such as would be the case when the individual is left in the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 2017Date of Patent: June 26, 2018Assignee: RedCritter Corp.Inventors: Robert M. Beaty, David R. Jenness, Randy Whelan
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Patent number: 9888205Abstract: In an embodiment, a method includes initiating a mobile device operable to continuously capture a live media stream such that recording of the live media stream is deactivated. The method further includes refraining from recording the live media stream while recording of the live media stream is deactivated. In addition, the method includes monitoring environmental conditions for one or more preconfigured indicators that the mobile device has exited the defined physical area. Also, the method includes, responsive to detection of at least one of the one or more preconfigured indicators, determining to activate recording of the live media stream.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2017Date of Patent: February 6, 2018Assignee: WatchGuard, Inc.Inventors: Mark Todd McHenry, James Walter Exner, Michael John Von Ahnen, William Brian Wall, Brent G. Robertson
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Patent number: 9870693Abstract: A method for preventing a portable electronic device from being left in a vehicle, and the electronic device and the vehicle using the same is provided. The method of the electronic device includes receiving, from the vehicle, a first signal including information regarding identification of an off state of an engine of the vehicle, receiving, from the vehicle, a second signal including information regarding identification of a change to an empty state of at least one seat of the vehicle, determining movement of the electronic device, and executing an alarm function, based on at least one of the first signal, the second signal, and the determined movement of the electronic device.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2016Date of Patent: January 16, 2018Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hee-June Jun
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Patent number: 9809166Abstract: An alarm device for a vehicle has a sensor section detecting that the hand of a passenger approaches an opening and closing operation section H and sending an operation detecting signal, a vehicle detector detecting another vehicle approaching from behind and sending a vehicle detecting signal, a vibration unit vibrating the opening and closing operation section H, a lamp section arranged on a pillar and displaying a warning sign with the irradiation of light, and a ECU (Electric Control Unit). When the ECU receives the vehicle detecting signal and the operation detecting signal, the vibration unit operates and a warning sign is displayed on the lamp section. Thereby, when another vehicle approaches, it is possible to prevent the passenger from opening operation of the door body.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2015Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Yazaki CorporationInventors: Shinichi Okamoto, Shuuji Satake, Shinngo Chiba
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Patent number: 9811995Abstract: An instrument panel interaction system for an automotive vehicle is provided that includes an alerting device configured to produce an alert. A controller is controllably coupled to the alerting device, the controller being operable to activate the alerting device to produce the alert. An inquiring device is communicatively coupled to the controller. The inquiring device is configured to ask the driver whether a child is present. The controller is configured to activate the alerting device to produce the alert when a predetermined condition is met and an affirmative response has been received that a child is present. A method of reminding a driver of the presence of a child within a motor vehicle is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: December 31, 2015Date of Patent: November 7, 2017Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems, Inc.Inventors: Ermal Gjoni, Marjan Deljosevic
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Patent number: 9805580Abstract: A system and method for indicating an alert associated with a mobile device are provided. The system includes a device detector to detect whether the mobile device is in a state of wireless charging; an exit signal receiver to detect an event associated with an exit; a device determiner to determine, after the event is detected, whether the mobile device is in an area associated with the wireless charging; and a vehicle notifier to transmit an alert based the determination by the device determiner. Also provided is a method for augmenting a wireless charging system with a notification system.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2015Date of Patent: October 31, 2017Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Jeffrey Mark Schroeder, Dinu Petre Madau, Gary Edward Zack
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Patent number: 9734695Abstract: A vehicle component moves between a first position exposing a rearward area of a vehicle interior and a second position at least partially concealing the rearward area. A movement detection device senses movement of the vehicle component. A vehicle ignition device within the vehicle body structure is operated by a vehicle operator. A controller is operably connected to the movement detection device, the vehicle ignition device and an alerting device. The controller detects movement of the vehicle component and operation of the vehicle ignition device in predetermined sequences of movement and operation. The controller thereafter determines whether or not the vehicle operator has potentially left an object in the rearward area. In response to determining that the vehicle operator may have left an object in the rearward area of the vehicle interior, the controller provides an alarm signal.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2015Date of Patent: August 15, 2017Assignee: Nissan North America, Inc.Inventors: Marlene Henry, Elsa Foley
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Patent number: 9701327Abstract: A sensor for monitoring the current flowing in a wire of a circuit is provided. The sensor includes a variable inductance contactless current detector to sense the current flowing in the wire, serially connected to an internal power source and a resistor to form a voltage divider circuit. The sensor also includes a voltage detector to monitor the voltage level across the resistor and generate an output signal. A system is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2013Date of Patent: July 11, 2017Assignee: ALSTROM TRANSPORT TECHNOLOGIESInventors: Robert I. Hochman, Bruce Vernon Johnson
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Patent number: 9688195Abstract: A vehicular safety system includes a vehicle that has a plurality of seat belts, an alarm and an ignition. Each of the seat belts is operationally coupled to the alarm and the ignition. A car seat is provided that has a belt and a clasp. The car seat is removably positioned within the vehicle. A conductor is coupled to the car seat and the conductor is selectively electrically coupled between the clasp and one of the seat belts when the car seat is occupied. Thus, the alarm detects when the conductor is operationally coupled to the buckle. The alarm generates an alarm sequence when the ignition is turned off and the conductor is electrically coupled between the clasp and the buckle. The alarm sequence includes an audible alarm such that the alarm may inhibit an occupant from being inadvertently left in the vehicle. A switch is positioned within the vehicle such that the may be manipulated. The switch is electrically coupled to the alarm and the switch de-actuates the alarm when the switch is manipulated.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2015Date of Patent: June 27, 2017Inventor: Mark Hammond
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Patent number: 9676325Abstract: A method for detecting the presence of an unattended child left in a vehicle includes receiving acoustic data obtained from inside a vehicle, determining if the vehicle is running or not in response to the acoustic data, determining if all windows in the vehicle are closed when the vehicle is not running, determining if sound volume inside the vehicle exceeds a predetermined threshold when all of the windows are closed, determining if a predetermined high-frequency word is spoken inside the vehicle when all of the windows are closed, and outputting an alert indicating that an unattended child is left in the vehicle when the sound volume inside the vehicle exceeds the predetermined threshold and when the predetermined high-frequency word is spoken inside the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2016Date of Patent: June 13, 2017Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATIONInventors: Ning Duan, Guoqiang Hu, Jingchang Huang, Peng Ji, Jun Zhu
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Patent number: 9602761Abstract: In an embodiment, a method includes initiating a mobile device operable to continuously capture a live media stream such that recording of the live media stream is deactivated. The method further includes refraining from recording the live media stream while recording of the live media stream is deactivated. In addition, the method includes monitoring environmental conditions for one or more preconfigured indicators that the mobile device has exited the defined physical area. Also, the method includes, responsive to detection of at least one of the one or more preconfigured indicators, determining to activate recording of the live media stream.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2015Date of Patent: March 21, 2017Assignee: Enforcement Video, LLCInventors: Mark Todd McHenry, James Walter Exner, Michael John Von Ahnen, William Brian Wall, Brent G. Robertson
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Patent number: 9587420Abstract: A wireless obstacle detection system includes a wireless photosensitive sensor and a communication module designed to provide a retrofit solution for easily adding obstacle detection capabilities to a previously installed barrier operator system. In one form, the wireless obstacle detector can be provided with a gateway device for adding additional functionality, including enabling long range remote operation of a barrier operator. To facilitate ease of installation, the communication module can communicate with a large variety of barrier operators including using at least two different protocols for communication with obstacle detectors. Such communication may be wireless or wired, depending on the barrier operator and communication protocol implemented by a particular previously installed barrier operator. The communication module may be designed to configure itself to operate with the communication protocol of the previously installed barrier operator.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 2015Date of Patent: March 7, 2017Assignee: The Chamberlain Group, Inc.Inventors: Robert Roy Keller, Jr., Cory Jon Sorice
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Patent number: 9545856Abstract: An alarm system can remind or alert an adult about the presence of a child in a vehicle. A child detector, such as a weight sensor or weight-activated circuit, can detect whether a child is occupying the child safety seat. The child detector may be integrated with or coupled to a child safety seat. The child detector can be used in coordination with a vehicle alarm system to remind or alert a driver that a child is occupying the child safety seat when a key is not in the ignition.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2015Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Assignee: JROD TEJAS, LLCInventors: Rhonda Borgne, Roy Ramirez, Jr.
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Patent number: 9547976Abstract: A device designed to help people from forgetting objects in vehicles. The device includes a central unit, a power cable, and a conducting insert that closes a circuit. The central unit includes a. case that houses the circuit with an internal power source, a buzzer, a switch, and a relay. The circuit is disconnected and when the conducting insert is inserted, it bridges the switch and completes the circuit. The power cable has a plug on one end and a car charger plug on the other. When the vehicle is running and the car charger plug is plugged into the cigarette charger socket, the plug is powered. When the plug is plugged into the relay in powering mode, the circuit is opened. If the plug is in non-powering mode, the relay will remained closed and the circuit will remain completed at this point.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2015Date of Patent: January 17, 2017Inventors: Bruce Roseman, Daniel Roseman
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Patent number: 9536416Abstract: A vehicle has an interior antenna for detecting transmissions from a keyless entry device (KED) and/or a radio frequency device (RFD) associated with a portable item when inside the vehicle, and an exterior antenna for detecting transmissions from the KED and/or the RFD when outside the vehicle. A processor receives determines, based on transmissions received by the interior and exterior antennas, passing of the KED from inside to outside the vehicle, and generates an alert if the interior antenna detects the RFD remaining inside the vehicle after said passing. The processor may further determine passing of the RFD from outside to inside the vehicle based upon detection by the exterior antenna of transmissions indicating the RFD is outside the vehicle, and subsequent detection by the interior antenna of transmissions from the RFD indicating it is inside the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 17, 2014Date of Patent: January 3, 2017Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Robert Spahl, Stephen David Fleming
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Patent number: 9522631Abstract: A vehicle includes a body having a door and a door latch, a display screen, front and rear seats, a seat belt, buckle and door latch sensors, and a controller. The latch sensors determine a latch state of the seat belt buckle and door latch. The controller determines the respective latch states of the seat belt buckle and the door latch via the respective latch sensors. The controller also displays a first icon/message via the display screen in response to an ignition-off event, with the icon or message prompting a driver to check the rear seat for the presence of a passenger or object. A second control action is executed by the controller in addition to the first control action in response to the latch state of the seat belt buckle and/or door latch being in the latched or closed latch state for less than a calibrated amount of time.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 2014Date of Patent: December 20, 2016Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Julie A. Kleinert, John R. Dolan, Anna M. Saadatjoo, Tricia E. Morrow
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Patent number: 9522651Abstract: An operational omission notification method for performing operational omission notification to a terminal unit of a user of a vehicle when the user forgets to operate vehicle equipment after the vehicle has been parked, the method including: detecting an operational omission of equipment installed on the vehicle after the vehicle has been parked; determining whether the vehicle is parked in an object region classified into a predetermined category; and notifying the terminal unit when it is determined that the vehicle is not parked within the object region.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2013Date of Patent: December 20, 2016Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Hiroshi Tominaga
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Patent number: 9514629Abstract: A vehicle door opening warning system including a control unit, a projection unit and a detection unit is provided. The control unit is disposed at a door of a vehicle. The projection unit is disposed at the door and is electrically coupled to the control unit. The detection unit is disposed outside of the vehicle and is electrically coupled to the control unit. When the detection unit detects a moving object existing within 5 to 30 meters of the vehicle, the detection unit produces a signal. The control unit receives the signal and controls the projection unit to project a warning message according to the signal. A vehicle door opening warning method is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2015Date of Patent: December 6, 2016Assignee: Unimicron Technology Corp.Inventors: Yin-Ju Chen, Cheng-Po Yu
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Patent number: 9511730Abstract: A collision warning system including a vehicle with a first sensor configured to detect an exit condition, a second sensor configured to detect a collision condition, an external warning signal system configured to emit a warning signal to warn a vehicle occupant about the collision condition, the external warning signal system includes at least one warning device configured to emit the warning signal, and a controller configured to communicate with the first and second sensors and to control the at least one warning device in response to the collision condition.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 2015Date of Patent: December 6, 2016Assignee: THUNDER POWER HONG KONG LTD.Inventor: Tai-Te Wu
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Patent number: 9487185Abstract: A vehicle alarm system 10 includes a control unit 12, a number of door contacts or switches 13, 14, 15 connected as inputs to the control unit 12, the switches including a spare wheel sensor 14 and a battery sensor 15, and a spare wheel locking mechanism 16 connected to the control unit 12 as an output amongst others. The locking mechanism 16 has an actuator in the form of an electric motor 36 which is configured slideably to displace a locking pin 37 between an open position and a closed position in which the pin 37 engages a spare wheel hoist 26 of the vehicle hence preventing unauthorized lowering/removal of the spare wheel. If the alarm is armed, the sensor 14 will detect when an attempt is made to loosen the wheel and in response thereto a siren 19 will be sounded and the locking mechanism 16 locked.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2015Date of Patent: November 8, 2016Inventor: Philippus Petrus Erasmus Taljaard
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Patent number: 9473611Abstract: Various arrangements for handling a call by a mobile device and/or selecting a function for execution by the mobile device are presented. A phone call may be commenced by a mobile device. During the phone call, the mobile device may collect proximity data that indicates the mobile device is not proximate to an ear of a user. The microphone of the mobile device may be muted in response to the proximity data that indicates the mobile device is not proximate to the ear of the user.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2014Date of Patent: October 18, 2016Assignee: QUALCOMM INCORPORATEDInventors: Babak Forutanpour, Leonid Sheynblat, David L. Bednar
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Patent number: 9462412Abstract: This specification describes technologies relating to content presentation. In general, one aspect of the subject matter described in this specification can be embodied in methods that include the actions of receiving, at a first time, a device identifier in association with a first network identifier that corresponds to a first network to which the device is connected, processing the first network identifier to determine a first location, associating the device identifier with the first location and the first time, receiving a content request from the device, determining that the device has been connected to the first network within a defined chronological proximity of receiving the content request, selecting one or more content items based on at least the first location, and providing the one or more content items to the device. Other embodiments of the various aspects include corresponding systems, apparatus, and computer program products.Type: GrantFiled: October 10, 2012Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Google Inc.Inventors: Vinod Kumar Ramachandran, Ping Wu
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Patent number: 9428109Abstract: A temperature-sensitive vehicle occupancy detection and alert system. The system alerts users when a young child is left unattended in a vehicle in order to prevent the young child from being exposed to dangerously high or low temperatures within the interior of the vehicle. The system utilizes sensor data captured by a plurality of different sensors, including at least one occupancy sensor, at least one temperature sensor, and at least one distance sensor. The system applies logic to the captured sensor data to determine whether to alert a user as to the fact that an occupant has been left unattended and to control various functions of the automobile that would allow individuals external to the vehicle to rescue the occupant from the dangerous conditions or provide relief to the child from the conditions, including by unlocking the vehicle's doors, lowering the vehicle's windows, and/or activating the vehicle's temperature control system.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2014Date of Patent: August 30, 2016Inventor: Gary Binnicker
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Patent number: 9393897Abstract: A system for alerting a person when a child has been left unattended comprising at least one sensor pad configured to send a first signal to a transmitter which in turn simultaneously relays the first signal to a plurality of receiver modules, wherein said plurality of receiver modules are configured to notify a person that a child has been left unattended if communication between the sensor pad and at least one of the plurality of receiver modules ceases. In addition, a method is provided for alerting a person when a child has been left unattended comprising the steps of sending a first signal, via a sensor pad, to a transmitter; simultaneously relaying the first signal to a plurality of receiver modules; and notifying a person that a child has been left unattended if communication between the sensor pad and at least one of the plurality of receiver modules ceases.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2014Date of Patent: July 19, 2016Inventors: Mark J. Gomez-Collazo, Victor L. Hernandez Santiago, Diego A. Aponte Roa
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Patent number: 9367977Abstract: An apparatus, a method, and a system are provided for controlling a smart key. The smart key control apparatus includes a smart key controller that is configured to transmit a wake-up signal for a smart key when a start-up command is detected in a start-off state of a vehicle and authenticate the smart key based on a response of the smart key that corresponds to the wake-up signal. In addition, a peripheral controller is configured to adjust a power level of a neighboring portable terminal when an authentication for the smart key fails and a communicator is configured to transmit and receive a signal between the smart key and the portable terminal.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2014Date of Patent: June 14, 2016Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventor: Jae Jun Lee
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Patent number: 9193361Abstract: A detection system for a vehicle pulled by cable circulating between two stations. The system includes a beacon placed on the vehicle and a receiving antenna placed in each of the stations, and the vehicle includes at least one retractable element on the top of the vehicle and wherein the beacon emits only when the retractable element remains protruding from the vehicle. When the beacon emits, the receiving antenna situated in the station is informed of a risk of collision of an element of the vehicle with the station, thus being able to communicate the information to the control/command system of the cable. When the beacon is not emitting, the receiving antenna is idle and the vehicle can enter into the station.Type: GrantFiled: April 2, 2013Date of Patent: November 24, 2015Assignee: PomagalskiInventors: Laura Fourgeaud, Olivier Bertolami
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Patent number: 9173087Abstract: The remote child monitor is an intelligent child seat presence, operator reminder, and emergency alert monitoring system and method that reduces the probability of a child properly secured in a vehicle baby seat being left unattended in a vehicle. The central monitoring device detects when the child is secured in the baby seat, communicates with the driver, the vehicle, and reminds the driver of the child being secured in the baby seat. Multiple layers of communication and back up operators are employed to further reduce the child being ignored. Communications include personal area network, local area network, and cellular networks GPS. Operators include primary, secondary, and emergency (911).Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2013Date of Patent: October 27, 2015Inventor: George Allen Pallotta
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Patent number: 9046439Abstract: A system for detecting the operative condition of a latch for a door of a motor-vehicle, comprises a magnetic field generating element adapted to generate a magnetic field which is associated to the operative condition of latch; a support which defines a housing for magnetic field generating element; and a sensor magnetically coupled with magnetic field generating element and adapted to sense the magnetic field. The generating element is snap-fitted to the housing.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2012Date of Patent: June 2, 2015Assignee: MAGNA CLOSURES S.P.A.Inventor: Marco Taurasi, I
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Patent number: 9041523Abstract: The car seat occupancy alarm is an alarm that detects the presence of individuals seated in the rear of the vehicle, and upon detection of which shall emit an alarm, provided the vehicle is turned off. The alarm system includes pressure sensors that are integrated into the rear seats of a vehicle, and which are in wired communication with a central processing unit located elsewhere within said vehicle. The central processing unit is further in wired communication with a timer, vehicle lights, and a vehicle battery in order to operate, sense, and emit an alarm upon detection that individuals remain in any of the rear seats while the vehicle is parked.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2013Date of Patent: May 26, 2015Inventors: Roderick Birdis, Marcita Birdis
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Publication number: 20150137963Abstract: A door assembly includes a first door skin and a second door skin spaced apart from the first door skin. The assembly also includes an energy sensor generating an energy signature signal and a memory storing a door component operating signature. A controller is coupled to the accelerometer and forms a comparison of the energy signature signal to the door component operating signature and generates a door component operation status signal in response to the comparison.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2014Publication date: May 21, 2015Inventors: Patricia Yulkowski, Leon Yulkowski, Edward J. Yenni
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Publication number: 20150137962Abstract: A temperature-sensitive vehicle occupancy detection and alert system. The system alerts users when a young child is left unattended in a vehicle in order to prevent the young child from being exposed to dangerously high or low temperatures within the interior of the vehicle. The system utilizes sensor data captured by a plurality of different sensors, including at least one occupancy sensor, at least one temperature sensor, and at least one distance sensor. The system applies logic to the captured sensor data to determine whether to alert a user as to the fact that an occupant has been left unattended and to control various functions of the automobile that would allow individuals external to the vehicle to rescue the occupant from the dangerous conditions or provide relief to the child from the conditions, including by unlocking the vehicle's doors, lowering the vehicle's windows, and/or activating the vehicle's temperature control system.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 27, 2014Publication date: May 21, 2015Inventor: Gary Binnicker
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Publication number: 20150130604Abstract: A system for alerting a person when a child has been left unattended comprising at least one sensor pad configured to send a first signal to a transmitter which in turn simultaneously relays the first signal to a plurality of receiver modules, wherein said plurality of receiver modules are configured to notify a person that a child has been left unattended if communication between the sensor pad and at least one of the plurality of receiver modules ceases. In addition, a method is provided for alerting a person when a child has been left unattended comprising the steps of sending a first signal, via a sensor pad, to a transmitter; simultaneously relaying the first signal to a plurality of receiver modules; and notifying a person that a child has been left unattended if communication between the sensor pad and at least one of the plurality of receiver modules ceases.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2014Publication date: May 14, 2015Inventors: Mark J. Gomez Collazo, Victor L. Hernandez Santiago, Diego A. Aponte Roa
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Patent number: 9030313Abstract: A pressure sensitive mat to be installed directly within a child's car seat to provide an audible alert to consumers that they have inadvertently left a child unattended in a motor vehicle, enabling them to quickly retrieve the child or infant and effectively prevent tragic scenarios that can result when a child is left unattended in a vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2013Date of Patent: May 12, 2015Inventor: Idora Pearson
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Patent number: 9000906Abstract: The present invention (also known as the HOT SEATâ„¢) discloses and claims a vehicle occupant detection and alerting system comprising a vicinity motion detector capable sending a wireless transmission and a transmission receiving means capable of receiving the motion detector's wireless transmission and triggering a vehicle alarm system, vehicle horn, a mobile device or other form of notification if a child is left unattended in a vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2012Date of Patent: April 7, 2015Inventor: Alissa Marie Chavez
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Patent number: 9000907Abstract: A safety system using a network connected to a vehicle to alert a client device of an operator, a first responder, a dedicated emergency dispatch service, a bystander or combinations thereof to the presence of an occupant in a vehicle passenger compartment of a vehicle indicating the occupant's temperature has exceeded or dropped below a life threatening threshold. The system uses a plurality of pressure sensors in vehicle seats, a first plurality of optical infrared frequency sensors located in the passenger compartment for measuring air temperature values of the passenger compartment, a plurality of second optical infrared frequency sensors measuring occupant temperature values in the passenger compartment and, in embodiments, at least one front seat motion sensor and at least one back seat motion sensor.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2014Date of Patent: April 7, 2015Inventors: Paul F. Rembach, Don Leslie Bockhorn
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Patent number: 8989915Abstract: A vehicular wireless communication apparatus disposed in a subject vehicle determines whether a travel locus of the subject vehicle is similar to a travel locus of a lead vehicle. When the travel locus of the subject vehicle and the lead vehicle are similar, the apparatus transmits the lead vehicle's device identification (ID) and a latest position information of the subject vehicle in place of travel locus information of the subject vehicle from the apparatus to other vehicles at regular interval.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2012Date of Patent: March 24, 2015Assignee: Denso CorporationInventor: Takahisa Yamashiro
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Patent number: 8988210Abstract: A method of automatically communicating reminder messages to a telematics-equipped vehicle includes the following steps: (a) establishing a reminder message and defining playback instructions for playing the reminder message; (b) generating a trigger based on the defined playback instructions; (c) setting the trigger; (d) monitoring for the occurrence of one or more conditions that satisfy the trigger; and (e) determining that the one or more conditions have occurred and, if so, then; (f) accessing the reminder message associated with the trigger; and (g) communicating the reminder message.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2007Date of Patent: March 24, 2015Assignee: General Motors LLCInventor: Kristen M. Shuart
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Patent number: 8988220Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for detecting an intruder inside a vehicle. The apparatus comprises a load sensor coupled to the vehicle, and a processor. The processor is coupled to the load sensor and is configured to monitor the load in the vehicle after the vehicle is vacated and locked and to determine if the load in the vehicle changes by more than a predetermined threshold.Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2008Date of Patent: March 24, 2015Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Craig R. Markyvech, Clark E. McCall
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Patent number: 8981921Abstract: A status indicator and reminder system for a temporary mobility kit for use in a vehicle having a tire pressure monitoring system. A tire sealant containing temporary mobility kit is fittable within the vehicle. A controller coupled to the temporary mobility kit and the tire pressure monitoring system will generate a service warning signal for the temporary mobility kit in response to information provided by the tire pressure monitoring system. The service warning signal will be provided at a message center in the vehicle to apprise the driver of the need to service the temporary mobility kit. The status indicator and reminder system may also utilize inputs from a power load monitor and a trailer brake controller system to generate and display a service warning signal at the message center.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2012Date of Patent: March 17, 2015Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Thomas Lee Miller, Scott Alan Watkins
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Publication number: 20150070160Abstract: A method and arrangement are described for handover warning in a vehicle having autonomous driving capabilities and a vehicle controller configured to control unmanned autonomous travel. A processor may be configured to monitor if there is a need to transition from unmanned autonomous travel to manual control of the vehicle. A detecting arrangement may be configured to monitor a vehicle driver and evaluate the vehicle driver's readiness to assume the act of driving the vehicle. A warning arrangement may be configured to provide warning information when driver-handover is requested by the processor, which warning arrangement may be further configured to adapt warning information timing in respect to the evaluated vehicle driver's readiness to assume the act of driving the vehicle. A warning output system may be configured to output the time adapted warning information to a vehicle passenger compartment.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2014Publication date: March 12, 2015Inventors: Staffan DAVIDSSON, Sicheng CHEN
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Publication number: 20150061856Abstract: Embodiments are disclosed for a method of alerting a user to the presence of a mobile device in a vehicle. In some example embodiments, a method includes identifying, via an in-vehicle computing system of a vehicle, presence of a mobile device. The method further includes providing an alert responsive to the user exiting the vehicle when the mobile device is still located in the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 28, 2013Publication date: March 5, 2015Applicant: Harman International Industries, IncorporatedInventors: Prakash Raman, Sreejit Gopinath
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Patent number: 8970362Abstract: A control system for implementing a vehicle-integrated child presence and reminder system includes a computer processor. The control system is integral with a vehicle. Logic is executable by the control system and is configured to monitor an occupancy sensor activated in a vehicle. The occupancy sensor, when activated, is indicative of a presence of a child in a car seat disposed in the vehicle. The logic is also configured to collect data from at least one vehicle sensor and, using the data collected from the vehicle sensor along with results of the monitoring of the occupancy sensor, the logic determines if a triggering event has occurred. In response to determining the triggering event has occurred, the logic is configured to generate an alert and transmit the alert to an alert component.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2012Date of Patent: March 3, 2015Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Karen E. Morley, John R. Dolan, Julie A. Kleinert, Li-Pen J. Ho, David T. Proefke