Reminder Patents (Class 340/457)
  • Patent number: 10008087
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: RedCritter Corp.
    Inventors: Robert M. Beaty, David R. Jenness, Randy Whelan
  • Patent number: 10005407
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2018
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Joerg Preissinger, Tobias Schoellermann, Rainer Steffen
  • Patent number: 9888205
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 2017
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: WatchGuard, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Todd McHenry, James Walter Exner, Michael John Von Ahnen, William Brian Wall, Brent G. Robertson
  • Patent number: 9870693
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2018
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hee-June Jun
  • Patent number: 9809166
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventors: Shinichi Okamoto, Shuuji Satake, Shinngo Chiba
  • Patent number: 9811995
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Ermal Gjoni, Marjan Deljosevic
  • Patent number: 9805580
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2017
    Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Jeffrey Mark Schroeder, Dinu Petre Madau, Gary Edward Zack
  • Patent number: 9734695
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2017
    Assignee: Nissan North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Marlene Henry, Elsa Foley
  • Patent number: 9701327
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2017
    Assignee: ALSTROM TRANSPORT TECHNOLOGIES
    Inventors: Robert I. Hochman, Bruce Vernon Johnson
  • Patent number: 9688195
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2017
    Inventor: Mark Hammond
  • Patent number: 9676325
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Ning Duan, Guoqiang Hu, Jingchang Huang, Peng Ji, Jun Zhu
  • Patent number: 9602761
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2017
    Assignee: Enforcement Video, LLC
    Inventors: Mark Todd McHenry, James Walter Exner, Michael John Von Ahnen, William Brian Wall, Brent G. Robertson
  • Patent number: 9587420
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2017
    Assignee: The Chamberlain Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Roy Keller, Jr., Cory Jon Sorice
  • Patent number: 9547976
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Inventors: Bruce Roseman, Daniel Roseman
  • Patent number: 9545856
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2015
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2017
    Assignee: JROD TEJAS, LLC
    Inventors: Rhonda Borgne, Roy Ramirez, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9536416
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2017
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Robert Spahl, Stephen David Fleming
  • Patent number: 9522651
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2016
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Hiroshi Tominaga
  • Patent number: 9522631
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2016
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Julie A. Kleinert, John R. Dolan, Anna M. Saadatjoo, Tricia E. Morrow
  • Patent number: 9511730
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2016
    Assignee: THUNDER POWER HONG KONG LTD.
    Inventor: Tai-Te Wu
  • Patent number: 9514629
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2016
    Assignee: Unimicron Technology Corp.
    Inventors: Yin-Ju Chen, Cheng-Po Yu
  • Patent number: 9487185
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2016
    Inventor: Philippus Petrus Erasmus Taljaard
  • Patent number: 9473611
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2016
    Assignee: QUALCOMM INCORPORATED
    Inventors: Babak Forutanpour, Leonid Sheynblat, David L. Bednar
  • Patent number: 9462412
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Vinod Kumar Ramachandran, Ping Wu
  • Patent number: 9428109
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Inventor: Gary Binnicker
  • Patent number: 9393897
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2016
    Inventors: Mark J. Gomez-Collazo, Victor L. Hernandez Santiago, Diego A. Aponte Roa
  • Patent number: 9367977
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 14, 2016
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Jae Jun Lee
  • Patent number: 9193361
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Assignee: Pomagalski
    Inventors: Laura Fourgeaud, Olivier Bertolami
  • Patent number: 9173087
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2015
    Inventor: George Allen Pallotta
  • Patent number: 9046439
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 2, 2015
    Assignee: MAGNA CLOSURES S.P.A.
    Inventor: Marco Taurasi, I
  • Patent number: 9041523
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Inventors: Roderick Birdis, Marcita Birdis
  • Publication number: 20150137963
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2014
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventors: Patricia Yulkowski, Leon Yulkowski, Edward J. Yenni
  • Publication number: 20150137962
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2014
    Publication date: May 21, 2015
    Inventor: Gary Binnicker
  • Publication number: 20150130604
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2014
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventors: Mark J. Gomez Collazo, Victor L. Hernandez Santiago, Diego A. Aponte Roa
  • Patent number: 9030313
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2015
    Inventor: Idora Pearson
  • Patent number: 9000906
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Inventor: Alissa Marie Chavez
  • Patent number: 9000907
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 7, 2015
    Inventors: Paul F. Rembach, Don Leslie Bockhorn
  • Patent number: 8988210
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: General Motors LLC
    Inventor: Kristen M. Shuart
  • Patent number: 8989915
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventor: Takahisa Yamashiro
  • Patent number: 8988220
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2015
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Craig R. Markyvech, Clark E. McCall
  • Patent number: 8981921
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Thomas Lee Miller, Scott Alan Watkins
  • Publication number: 20150070160
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2014
    Publication date: March 12, 2015
    Inventors: Staffan DAVIDSSON, Sicheng CHEN
  • Publication number: 20150061856
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2013
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Applicant: Harman International Industries, Incorporated
    Inventors: Prakash Raman, Sreejit Gopinath
  • Patent number: 8970362
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Karen E. Morley, John R. Dolan, Julie A. Kleinert, Li-Pen J. Ho, David T. Proefke
  • Publication number: 20150048937
    Abstract: A method of issuing a notice that a vehicle engine has accidentally been left running starts by determining the engine is running The method then determines if the vehicle has moved more than a set distance in a set time. If the engine remains running for set period of time while the vehicle has not moved more than a set distance, the notice is issued.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 15, 2013
    Publication date: February 19, 2015
    Applicant: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: KEVIN R. HORBATT, MICHAEL F. O'LEARY
  • Patent number: 8947215
    Abstract: A system and method are provided for implementing an automated workstation elevation position tracking and control scheme. Software running on the user's computer generates reminders and/or to forces an individual to periodically readjust the height of the workstation in a manner that promotes standing while at work. A current position, and an elapsed time that the workstation has been at the current position, is detected with an objective of providing pre-programmed routine or random automated reminders to a user to change the current position of the workstation from one elevation state to the other. The software tracks the percent of time that a user is standing and optionally compares this with a pre-defined goal. Automatic control via the user workstation, of workstation elevator actuators is provided in a manner that makes it easier, or otherwise unavoidable, for the user to initiate repositioning from a sitting to a standing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2012
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Xerox Corporation
    Inventors: Barry P Mandel, Michael R Furst
  • Patent number: 8947222
    Abstract: Example methods and apparatus to detect mobile devices are disclosed. A disclosed example apparatus includes a processor and a memory in communication with the processor having instructions stored thereon that, when executed, cause the processor to determine whether a first wireless transceiver is in communication range of a vehicle. The first wireless transceiver is to provide an identifier associated with a person. When the first wireless transceiver is not in communication range of the vehicle, a second wireless transceiver in the vehicle is transitioned from a first power transmission mode to a relatively lower power transmission mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: BlackBerry Limited
    Inventor: Michael Joseph DeLuca
  • Patent number: 8941499
    Abstract: A first sensor is coupled to a seat back surface and/or a seat belt, and a second sensor is positioned remotely from the first sensor. The first sensor is configured to generate a raw signal indicative of biological data and noise, and the second sensor is configured to generate a baseline signal indicative of noise associated with the first sensor. A computing device is programmed to determine a state of the occupant based on at least the raw signal and the baseline signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kin Fung, Timothy Dick
  • Patent number: 8941478
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2015
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Sanjeev C. Mirle, Eric S. Kaufman
  • Patent number: 8922396
    Abstract: Technologies are described herein for providing an automatic reminder function. The technologies are adapted to receive a definition of a reminder as an occurrence or are non-occurrence of an event and to receive operationally relevant data from a system data device. The technologies then determine whether the operationally relevant data indicates that the reminder is triggered by the occurrence or non-occurrence of the event. Responsive to determining whether the operationally relevant data indicates that the reminder is triggered by the occurrence or non-occurrence of the event, the technologies issue the reminder through instrumentation on an aircraft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2014
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Gordon Robert Andrew Sandell, Bradley David Cornell
  • Patent number: 8917174
    Abstract: Systems and methods for indicating the presence of a mobile device within a passenger cabin are provided. A method for indicating the presence of a mobile device within a passenger cabin of a vehicle includes linking a vehicle computing device with the mobile device, determining whether a vehicle ignition is off and whether a vehicle lock has been actuated. The method further includes generating an audible mobile device search signal that is played through a cabin and waiting to receive a response from the mobile device as to whether the mobile device detected the audible mobile device search signal. The method further includes determining whether the mobile device is within the passenger cabin based on whether a response was received from the mobile device and generating a first audible indication when the mobile device is within the passenger cabin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventor: Christopher Carleton Morgan, Jr.