In Vehicle Patents (Class 455/569.2)
-
Patent number: 8805349Abstract: A method for controlling mobile communications involves establishing an RFID connection between an RFID tag disposed on or at a predefined location inside a cabin area of a vehicle and an RFID reader attached to a mobile communications device. Upon breaking the RFID connection, an application resident on the device recognizes that the device is no located in the predefined location. A message is automatically sent to an entity outside of the vehicle, where the message indicates that the device is no longer located at the predefined location inside the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2011Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: General Motors LLCInventors: Mark S. Frye, Michael B. Ames, Derek Hopper, Daniele Nicolini
-
Patent number: 8805453Abstract: The present invention relates to a signal processing system, comprising a number of microphones and loudspeakers, a hands-free set configured to receive a telephone signal from a remote party and to transmit a microphone signal supplied by at least one of the microphones to the remote party; an in-vehicle communication system configured to receive a microphone signal supplied by at least one of the microphones; receive the telephone signal; amplify the microphone signal to obtain at least one first output signal; output the at least one first output signal and/or a second output signal corresponding to the telephone signal to at least one of the loudspeakers; and wherein the signal processing systems is configured to detect speech activity in the telephone signal and to control the in-vehicle communication system to reduce amplification of the microphone signal by a damping factor, if it is detected that speech activity is present in the telephone signal.Type: GrantFiled: January 4, 2013Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: Nuance Communications, Inc.Inventors: Tim Haulick, Bernd Iser, Gerhard Uwe Schmidt, Arthur Wolf
-
Patent number: 8798623Abstract: A system and method for making vehicle originated calls to a telematics service provider or other call center. The method includes identifying a call type associated with a desired wireless communication of speech or data to the call center, and then carrying out one of a number of different call connection processes depending on the call type. For voice channel cellular connections, an in-band modem cellular connection is preferably established in most instances using a connection retry strategy that includes primary, secondary, and possibly tertiary connection attempts. Cell selection can be carried out using an acquisition task, background scan and inter-country PLMN reselection process that are used to select among available PLMNs and base stations. The system and method can be carried out in connection with various cellular system technologies, but is especially suited for use with GSM systems.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 2009Date of Patent: August 5, 2014Assignee: General Motors LLCInventors: Ki Hak Yi, Sethu K. Madhavan
-
Publication number: 20140213328Abstract: The disclosure extends to an apparatus, system and method for providing a user with the ability to use a mobile device hands-free while performing other tasks. The disclosure further extends to an apparatus having a substantially rigid body with a pouch formed between an upper portion and a lower portion of the body for receiving a mobile device therein, and a channel formed within the body. The apparatus may utilize a band made from an elastic material that is located within the channel of the body and is freely slidable within the channel to retain and hold the mobile device within the pouch. The apparatus may also include a cover member that substantially covers the body and the band to thereby secure the band within the channel.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 8, 2013Publication date: July 31, 2014Inventor: Daryl E. Faulk
-
Patent number: 8793050Abstract: A communication system of a motor vehicle is provided. The communication system includes a vehicle operating unit, a vehicle output unit, and an interface computer. The interface computer is connected to the vehicle operating unit and the vehicle output unit. The interface computer is implemented for the purpose of connecting a mobile terminal to the vehicle operating unit and the vehicle output unit such that information from the mobile terminal is displayable on the vehicle output unit and the mobile terminal is operable via the vehicle operating unit.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2007Date of Patent: July 29, 2014Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Ulrich Weinmann, Jens-Peter Weiss, Thomas Stauner, Wolfram Manthey
-
Patent number: 8792827Abstract: A short range wireless communication apparatus includes: a connection device that connects with an external apparatus via a short range wireless communication line according to a data communication protocol for defining data communication, wherein the external apparatus switches to a normal mode from a power-saving mode under a condition that the external apparatus receives a power-saving mode release signal from the short range wireless communication apparatus while the external apparatus operates in the power-saving mode; a transmission device that transmits the power-saving mode release signal to the external apparatus; and a control device that controls the transmission device to transmit the power-saving mode release signal to the external apparatus when the control device determines that the connection device connects with the external apparatus according to the data communication protocol.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2012Date of Patent: July 29, 2014Assignee: Denso CorporationInventor: Ryuuji Sakata
-
Patent number: 8787590Abstract: The rearview assembly of the present invention may include any one or more of the following: a housing for attaching to the vehicle, the housing may define an interior space that is acoustically separated into at least two chambers; a first speaker that may be located in a first one of the at least two chambers of the interior space of the housing; a first microphone subassembly located on the top surface of the housing; a second microphone subassembly located on the bottom surface of the housing; a display positioned in the housing; an audio/data transceiver for transmitting and receiving audio and data signals to/from a portable device; and a control circuit for determining whether a portable device having a predetermined identification code is within the range of the audio/data transceiver, and for exchanging data with the portable device through the audio/data transceiver.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2007Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: Gentex CorporationInventors: Alan R. Watson, Michael A. Bryson
-
Patent number: 8787987Abstract: A system and method for configuring a vehicle user interface that provides hands-free use of a mobile communications device by a vehicle operator. First, the mobile communications device located at a vehicle is linked with a vehicle user interface in the vehicle so that the driver or other occupant can carry out hands-free telephone calls through the mobile device. Then, an evaluation phone call is placed using the mobile device so that volume levels, noise, etc. can be checked. Based on an analysis of that evaluation call, at least one audio parameter of the vehicle user interface is configured and is thereafter used to improve the audio communication between the user and the vehicle user interface.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2010Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: General Motors LLCInventors: Subhash B. Gullapalli, Dana B. Fecher
-
Patent number: 8787977Abstract: A dialing mode of a telematics unit in a vehicle is controlled by monitoring for dialing digits from a vehicle occupant, determining whether the type of dialing digits are continuous dialing digits or discrete dialing digits, establishing a continuous mode for receiving continuous dialing digits or a discrete mode for receiving discrete dialing digits based on the determination, and if the type of dialing digits changes, switching the established mode.Type: GrantFiled: April 8, 2010Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: General Motors LLCInventors: Michael A. Wuergler, Sherri J. Voran-Nowak, Rathinavelu Chengalvarayan, Gaurav Talwar
-
Patent number: 8770539Abstract: An apparatus for holding an electronic device, such as a smartphone or GPS device, is configured to secure the device within and without an automobile. The apparatus includes a handle grip assembly and a detachable clamp assembly. The clamp assembly may be configured with removable vent connectors to facilitate attachment of the clamp assembly to a standard air conditioning vent of the automobile. With the vent connectors removed, the clamp assembly may be coupled to a grip backing plate to form a tripod structure. A pair of legs swivel in and out of cradles formed in a handle assembly where an ergonomic handle serves as the third leg of the tripod.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2013Date of Patent: July 8, 2014Inventor: Kevin Hsu
-
Patent number: 8775020Abstract: In at least one embodiment, an apparatus for transmitting vehicle information to an occupant communication device (OCD) is provided. The system comprises a communication module positioned within the vehicle. The communication device is configured to receive a transmission status signal indicative of a transmission mode for the vehicle. The communication device is further configured to transmit the transmission status signal over a wireless protocol to the OCD such that the OCD is disabled from being controlled by switches positioned thereon if the transmission mode enables movement of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: May 7, 2010Date of Patent: July 8, 2014Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Thomas Lee Miller, Brian Bennie, David Anthony Hatton, Douglas Paul Walser, Derrick E. Cook
-
Patent number: 8768286Abstract: The present invention provides a safety control system for a vehicle with controls located on the vehicle steering wheel. The controls may be arranged in a cluster on one or both sides of the upper half of the steering wheel or on a special flange mounted to the steering wheel. The contours are easily recognizable and accessible while driving without any distraction to the driver. The controls can be enhanced by varied coloring, shape, size, and texture to make them easily identifiable. The controls can be used with portable telematics devices, in a multi-modal process in conjunction with thumb gesture interpretation or speech recognition. A universal portable device docking station may be used in conjunction with the control system.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2012Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Inventor: Mouhamad Ahmad Naboulsi
-
Patent number: 8768412Abstract: An infotainment/telematics system includes a fixed base unit adapted to execute a set of stand-alone infotainment and/or telematics functions, and a portable communication device adapted to execute a stand-alone infotainment and/or telematics function. The fixed base unit and the portable communication device may be connected for intelligent communication with one another to allow the fixed base unit to control and access the stand-alone infotainment and/or telematics function of the portable communication device.Type: GrantFiled: February 5, 2008Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Assignees: Harman International Industries, Incorporated, Harman Becker Automotive Systems GmbHInventors: Lee Bauer, Erich Geiger
-
Patent number: 8768292Abstract: Devices, systems, and methods for responding to emergency situations of infants, children and pets left unattended in a vehicle. The device comprises a control module for short range RF transmission housed in a lightweight, portable unit plugged into a vehicle accessory power outlet. The system may additionally comprise sensors in communication with the module to detect and trigger alarms, including: when a vehicle has been in a collision; whether a child has climbed out of a car seat while the vehicle is in motion; when the temperature within the vehicle is unsafe; whether an infant has been left unattended in a vehicle; and whether children are playing in a parked vehicle (e.g. trunk) in unsafe temperatures. The portable device may also be configured with an “SOS” button housed within a key fob, wristband, or necklace, to transmit GPS coordinates of the wearer in emergency situations (such as kidnappings).Type: GrantFiled: November 1, 2011Date of Patent: July 1, 2014Inventor: Alfonzo Welch
-
Patent number: 8761673Abstract: A short-range wireless communication apparatus including a connection device and a control device is disclosed. The connection device is capable of connecting a communication protocol to a communication destination device. After transmitting a connection request signal of a first protocol to the communication destination device, the connection device waits for receipt of a response signal. When a request to connect a second protocol is generated while the connection device is waiting for receipt of a response signal, the control device causes the connection device to interrupt waiting for the receipt of the response signal and transmits the connection request signal of the second protocol to the communication destination device.Type: GrantFiled: June 28, 2012Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Assignee: Denso CorporationInventor: Ryuuji Sakata
-
Patent number: 8755949Abstract: Disclosed are a telematics system using human body communication, a portable device having a telematics function using human body communication, and a method for providing a telematics service using human body communication. The telematics system using human body communication includes: a vehicle receiving an authentication key from at least one portable device through human body communication using a human body as a medium, and controlling the opening and closing of a door of the vehicle based on whether or not the received authentication key is valid; and a first portable device transmitting a first authentication key through a user's body in contact with the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2010Date of Patent: June 17, 2014Assignee: Electronics and Telecommunications Research InstituteInventors: In Gi Lim, Sung Weon Kang, Hyung Il Park, Chang Hee Hyoung, Jung Hwan Hwang, Tae Wook Kang, Kyung Soo Kim, Jung Bum Kim, Sung Eun Kim, Seok Bong Hyun, Kyung Hwan Park, Byoung Gun Choi, Tae Young Kang
-
Patent number: 8750832Abstract: A method and apparatus for connecting a personal mobile device to a vehicle communication unit. The method involves automatically detecting the presence of a personal mobile device located at a vehicle, obtaining permission to connect the personal mobile device, and automatically connecting the personal mobile device to the vehicle communication unit. The method and apparatus can be used, for example, during an initial connection of a personal mobile device to a vehicle communication unit or each time a new mobile device is present in the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2012Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Michael A. Wuergler, Steven C. Tengler, Robert A. Hrabak
-
Patent number: 8750943Abstract: A method and system for attempting contact with a person via a vehicle telematics unit. The method carried out by the system involves receiving a request for well-being check of a person, placing a call to that person's vehicle, and performing a well-being check if the person answers the call. If the call is not answered, then the method further involves setting a vehicle trigger, presenting a well-being check message to the occupant upon occurrence of the trigger, receiving a return call from the vehicle, and communicating with the occupant over the return call to verify the person's well-being and offer any needed assistance.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2008Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: General Motors LLCInventors: Travis Lyle Bradburn, Laura R. Chmielewski
-
Patent number: 8749363Abstract: The invention is directed to systems, methods and computer program products for presenting visual information in an automobile. An exemplary system includes a receiving station that receives a mobile device; and a display unit that presents, to a driver or a passenger in the automobile, visual information in response to one or more instructions input to the mobile device. The display unit of the system is separate from the mobile device's display. In some embodiments, the display is a mirror, while, in other embodiments, the display is an electronic display. In some embodiments, the receiving station has the ability to receive mobile devices of a plurality of types.Type: GrantFiled: September 28, 2011Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Mobile Communications ABInventors: Takefumi Masuda, Tetsuya Okuda, Chandrashekar Subba
-
Patent number: 8750944Abstract: In relation to wireless communication, a communications apparatus suitable for installation into a vehicle provides a user-driven communication capability in a vehicle communications system. The apparatus includes means providing a wide-area communication capability, at least one antenna interface for conveying signals to and/or from at least one antenna providing wide-area communication, at least one power input configured to receive operating power for the apparatus from a vehicle and at least one digital communication interface for providing connectivity to a master unit of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2012Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: Broadcom CorporationInventors: Seppo Rousu, Yrjo Kaipainen, Kim Kaltiokallio, Jonne Soininen
-
Patent number: 8750945Abstract: The device (10) comprises a casing (12) accommodating a microphone (14), a sound reproduction transducer (16), a plurality of control buttons (18, 20, 22, 24), a printed board carrying electronic circuits, a power battery, as well as, possibly, operation indicators (26, 28), an external connector and a near-field communication antenna. The casing is in the form of an elongated band bended on itself in such a manner to form a clamp having laterally a U-shaped profile, a first branch (32) carrying the transducer and a second branch (34) carrying the microphone. The bended band has in the central region a transverse discontinuity (36) mechanically separating the two branches and acoustically decoupling the transducer and the microphone from each other.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 2013Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: ParrotInventor: Karim Fargeau
-
Patent number: 8750796Abstract: A method and system of establishing communications between at least two independent software modules in a safety critical system, such as a medical system, is provided. The design comprises providing an exclusive Bluetooth connection between at least two wireless devices. A master wireless device is configured with Bluetooth master device functionality and a slave wireless device is configured with Bluetooth slave device functionality. The wireless devices are employed in performing procedures in a safety critical environment. The method further comprises acquiring a stored unique address from the slave wireless device over the Bluetooth connection, comparing the stored unique address to a master wireless device unique address available at the master wireless device, and exclusively pairing the master wireless device and the slave wireless device when the unique address acquired from the slave wireless device is found to identically match the master wireless device unique address.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2007Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: Abbott Medical Optics Inc.Inventors: Michael J. Claus, Timothy Hunter, Dung Mar, Fred Lee
-
Patent number: 8750904Abstract: A system, method and computer readable medium comprised of in-vehicle passive monitoring and information management system elements which together detect, identify, report and discourage unsafe wireless device use by the operator of a vehicle. An in-vehicle monitoring device determines the vehicle's operational state and location, identifies wireless device transmitter emissions within the vehicle and communicates to a remote information management system in real-time using a wireless network, or after-the-fact, using a locally-installed software version of the information management system. The information management system collects information retrieved from in-vehicle devices and correlates this information with other database information to provide users with timely alerts, tracking, and records of unsafe wireless device use.Type: GrantFiled: April 26, 2013Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: Guardity Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Joseph Thomas Mader, Thomas Edward Mader, Russell Carl McKown
-
Patent number: 8744397Abstract: A system and method for providing profile information for occupants of a vehicle to a service provider. The system may communicate with at least one mobile device to receive an identification from each mobile device. The system may store profile information of an occupant associated with each identification. The system may communicate with the service provider to transmit the profile information associated with the mobile devices if a crash condition is identified and communication with the mobile device occurred during a time period just prior to the crash condition.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2011Date of Patent: June 3, 2014Assignee: Continental Automotive Systems, Inc.Inventors: Robert Gee, Shafer Seymour
-
Patent number: 8744540Abstract: A cradle for a mobile phone includes a rear bearing surface; left and right side walls; two guide rails being located on the front side of the left and right side walls and protruding laterally from the side walls; a bottom part comprising a connector element for mechanically and electrically engaging a bottom connector of the mobile phone, the rear bearing surface, said side walls and the guide rails define left and right slots extending parallel to the side walls for receiving left and right side sections of a mobile phone; guiding a phone being inserted into the cradle to the bottom part; and retaining a mobile phone received against forces acting in a direction substantially perpendicular to the slots; how to lock the connector element onto a bottom connector of a mobile phone received in the cradle for retaining the mobile phone inside the cradle is shown.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 2012Date of Patent: June 3, 2014Assignee: Core Wireless Licensing S.a.r.l.Inventors: Ralf Tomasini, Jan Kettula, Yossef Schvetz
-
Patent number: 8731473Abstract: Multiple profiles are concurrently connected between an in-vehicle apparatus and a mobile phone. A streaming function is performed based on a related profile of the multiple profiles. A dial-up networking profile connection request occurs but is rejected to make connection unsuccessful. In such a case, the in-vehicle apparatus disconnects the related profile out of the currently connected multiple profiles or interrupts the streaming function based on the related profile. The in-vehicle apparatus then performs a re-connection of the dial-up networking profile with the mobile phone because the cause of rejecting the dial-up networking profile connection request is removed.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2012Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Sachiyo Hosono, Ryuuji Sakata
-
Patent number: 8731822Abstract: A method and apparatus for managing audio conflicts and priorities is disclosed. A mobile device (110) initiates a navigation application (410) and an audio application (415), each configured to utilize audio input and/or output components. The mobile device identifies (430, 435) a priority of a communication associated with the audio application and manages (440, 445) the audio input and output components based on the priority and other factors. In particular, the mobile device or components thereof can delay (440) an indication of the communication until a sufficient break in a route traversal is reached, can mute (445) the audio input component while the navigation application utilizes the audio output component, and/or can perform other functions related to the audio conflicts and priorities of the applications.Type: GrantFiled: January 17, 2012Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Motorola Mobility LLCInventors: Jerome Vogedes, Mark R Lemke
-
Patent number: 8731145Abstract: A method of regulating data transmissions used with telematics-equipped vehicles. The steps include establishing a period of anticipated call center service outage, notifying a plurality of telematics units of the period of anticipated call center service outage, storing that outage information at the plurality of telematics units, and then when a call from the vehicle to the call center is desired during the service outage, the process implements a call handling procedure that delays most calls until the call center is available, but that provides alternative call solutions for urgent or occupant-placed calls. Once the call center is available, postponed calls can be staggered to avoid a large initial spike in calls received at the call center.Type: GrantFiled: December 21, 2007Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: General Motors LLCInventor: Christopher L. Oesterling
-
Patent number: 8725217Abstract: An in-vehicle device is provided. A wireless communication section is configured to perform wireless communication with a plurality of mobile terminal devices in a vehicle. A specifying section is configured to specify each of the mobile terminal devices based on radio waves which are transmitted from the mobile terminal devices carried in the vehicle and are received by an antenna provided in the vehicle. An information acquiring section is configured to acquire service specifying information for specifying available services for each of the mobile terminal devices from each of the mobile terminal devices specified by the specifying section. A share setting section is configured to set whether or not to share at least one of the available services among the mobile terminal devices based on the service specifying information acquired by the information acquiring section.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2010Date of Patent: May 13, 2014Assignee: Fujitsu Ten LimitedInventor: Toshio Kitahara
-
Publication number: 20140128129Abstract: A system includes a processor configured to receive a request to activate a voice input responsive function on a mobile device. The processor is further configured to send indicia of an incoming call to a vehicle computing system (VCS), responsive to the request. Also, the processor is configured to receive access to an open voice channel originating at the VCS as part of a VCS hands-free call handling for a virtual phone call established by sending the indicia and receive voice input over the hands-free call channel. The processor is additionally configured to pass the voice input to the voice input responsive function. The processor is also configured to receive output from the voice input responsive function and pass the output to the VCS for output to the user.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 8, 2012Publication date: May 8, 2014Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Doron M. Elliott, Yiping Xia
-
Patent number: 8718287Abstract: A method for controlling a maximum signal level output to headphones of a wireless device is provided. The method includes: determining an impedance of the headphones; determining a carrier specific maximum signal level for headphones having the impedance; and, adjusting an audio amplifier of the wireless device coupled to the headphones to restrict the maximum signal level output to the headphones to the carrier specific maximum signal level.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2012Date of Patent: May 6, 2014Assignee: BlackBerry LimitedInventor: Cyril Martin
-
Patent number: 8712481Abstract: To provide for a movable electronic device a power receiving device that when charging a battery, simplifies charging of the battery from a power feeder, which is a power supply means, and does not have faults due to an external factor relating to a relay terminal, or damage of the relay terminal, that are caused by directly connecting the battery and the power feeder, and further, to provide an electronic device including the power receiving device. An antenna circuit and a booster antenna for supplying electric power are provided in a movable electronic device. The antenna circuit receives a radio signal such as an electromagnetic wave via the booster antenna, and electric power that is obtained through the receiving of the radio signal is supplied to the battery through a signal processing circuit.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2010Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: Semiconductor Energy Laboratory Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yutaka Shionoiri, Jun Koyama, Yoshiyuki Kurokawa, Shunpei Yamazaki, Takayuki Ikeda, Takeshi Osada, Tomoaki Atsumi, Masato Ishii
-
Patent number: 8712408Abstract: A remotely provisioned proxy within a wireless/mobile phone that proxies a wireless communication path between a disconnected piconet (e.g., BLUETOOTH™) device and a network resource such as a universal resource locator (URL) via a mating mobile phone. Thus, an application proxy module embodied within the mobile phone provides managed access of a piconet device connected to the mating mobile phone to remote services. A disconnected piconet device uses the full data bandwidth available to a wireless phone, without the need for the disconnected piconet device to include its own separate wireless front end, or to require use of a modem within the mobile phone. Thus, using a mobile phone with application proxy, the user need not pay for the luxury of a tethered data plan.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2013Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: TeleCommunication Systems, Inc.Inventors: Kevin Tsurutome, Robert Barcklay, Robert Wang
-
Patent number: 8706171Abstract: A user of a hands-free phone cannot determine with which speech quality the distant side of communication is listened to, and does not know which action to be required to improve the speech quality. In the case of the present invention, a function of presenting an action to be implemented by the user to improve the speech quality at the opposite party is mounted on the hands-free terminal. For the presentation here, it is assumed that the hands-free terminal according to the present invention has a function of estimating the speech quality at the distant side, a function of estimating an action to be implemented by the user to improve the estimated speech quality, and a function of presenting the estimated action to the user.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2012Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Assignee: Clarion Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kenji Nagamatsu, Naoki Watanabe
-
Patent number: 8705763Abstract: An in-vehicle audio device and an in-vehicle audio system are disclosed. The in-vehicle audio device acquires and registers metadata of music data from multiple music possession devices, at least one of which is a portable music carrier device capable of performing wireless communication. Regarding the metadata acquired from the portable music carrier device, the in-vehicle audio device maintains the registration of the metadata after a communication connection between the portable music carrier device and the in-vehicle audio device is cut off. The in-vehicle audio device creates a playlist based on the registered metadata.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2010Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Assignee: DENSO CORPORATIONInventor: Yousuke Kimura
-
Patent number: 8704632Abstract: In an in-vehicle system, a portable terminal interprets a command intended by operation data operated by an occupant via a touch panel of a DA, and determines whether the interpreted command is a prohibition command, that is, whether execution of the command in an own device is prohibited. When the command is not a prohibition command, the portable terminal is caused to execute the command, and when it is a prohibition command, the DA is caused to execute the command.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2009Date of Patent: April 22, 2014Assignee: Fujitsu Ten LimitedInventors: Satoshi Ohta, Noriaki Inoue, Toshio Kitahara
-
Patent number: 8700103Abstract: A vehicle terminal apparatus has a connection monitoring unit for monitoring a disconnection of a communication link between a wireless communication device and a portable terminal, considering an abnormal disconnection of the communication link as a link loss, considering a disconnection of the communication link by a disconnection process by the wireless communication device as a first disconnection, and considering a disconnection of the communication link by a disconnection process, by the portable terminal as a second disconnection; and a connection condition determination unit for determining a wireless connection condition of the wireless communication device based on a disconnection reason that accounts for a reason for disconnection and a pre-disconnection call condition that is a call condition of the portable terminal immediately before the disconnection when the disconnection of the communication link is detected by the connection monitoring unit.Type: GrantFiled: August 2, 2010Date of Patent: April 15, 2014Assignees: Denso Corporation, Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Takahisa Ozaki, Soichi Saito, Suguru Matsushita, Ryuuji Sakata, Kazushige Hayashi, Shinichi Yamamoto, Hirokazu Ishida, Yosuke Nakanishi, Masao Sasaki
-
Patent number: 8694058Abstract: A system and method for automatically configuring a communications system between a local mode in which a local communications device (such as an in-vehicle device or “land-line phone”) is active and a remote mode in which a mobile communications device is active and coupled to the communications system. One example of the method includes searching for a Bluetooth™ enabled device, selecting the remote mode of operation responsive to detection of the Bluetooth™ enabled device, and selecting the local mode of operation responsive to failure to detect the Bluetooth™ enabled device. In one example, selecting the local mode of operation includes activating the local communications device, and selecting the remote mode of operation includes activating local Bluetooth™ systems to connect the Bluetooth™ enabled device to the communications system.Type: GrantFiled: September 13, 2012Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Assignee: Universal Secure Registry, LLCInventor: Kenneth P. Weiss
-
Patent number: 8693975Abstract: A cigarette lighter adapter (CLA) is provided with a main body configured to be connected at one end thereof to a vehicle cigarette lighter socket or auxiliary power socket. The main body of the cigarette lighter adapter is also connected to one end of a coaxial cable. The other end of the coaxial cable is preferably terminated with a standard low cost DC connector for connection to a portable media player (e.g., with integrated or separate satellite radio receiver) or other content source that provides a frequency modulated (FM) radio frequency signal with audio content onto the coaxial cable 60. The FM signal is amplified by an amplifier in the main body of the CLA and then injected into the vehicle power system through the contacts in the mechanical housing of the main body and the vehicle cigarette lighter socket.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 2010Date of Patent: April 8, 2014Assignee: Sirius XM Radio Inc.Inventors: Gary John Conners, Nenad Popovic, Efrain Luke Rodriguez, Wearn-Juhn Wang
-
Publication number: 20140094228Abstract: A vehicle telephone device for mounting in a vehicle and for use with a vehicle audio system, a microphone mounted in the vehicle, and a mobile phone is disclosed. The vehicle telephone device includes a housing and a telephone module within the housing and configured to use the mobile phone, the microphone, and the vehicle audio system to provide an in-vehicle telephone feature. The vehicle telephone device further includes an active noise cancellation module within the housing and is configured to use the vehicle audio system to cancel noise in the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2012Publication date: April 3, 2014Inventors: Lawrence Robert Hamelink, Brian K. Servis, Kevin J. Blauwkamp
-
Patent number: 8688175Abstract: At least one of outbound call history data, inbound call history data, and phone book data is transferred to a handsfree apparatus for use in a vehicle at a predetermined timing for the purpose of obtaining near realtime update of the inbound/outbound call history data from a cellular phone. By utilizing simultaneous connection of HFP and PBAP, the handsfree apparatus establishes a Bluetooth communication with the cellular phone through HFP first, and then establishes another communication through PBAP simultaneously, for receiving the inbound call history data and the outbound call history data stored before establishing the Bluetooth communication from the cellular phone. The handsfree apparatus can thus be capable of placing a call by using the outbound call history data and the inbound call history data stored in a work memory after receiving those data.Type: GrantFiled: January 11, 2013Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Souichi Saitoh, Hideaki Suzuki
-
Patent number: 8686829Abstract: A lock code recovery system for selectively sending a lock code to a proximate personal electronic device is provided. A recognizable code is associated with the proximate personal electronic device. The lock code recovery system includes a user input device for receiving feedback and a control module. The control module is in communication with the user input device, and has a memory with an application and at least one recognizable code stored thereon. The application has the lock code associated with the application for at least activating or deactivating the application. The control module includes control logic for monitoring the user input device for feedback indicating the lock code associated with the application should be sent to the proximate personal device.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2011Date of Patent: April 1, 2014Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: Matthew M. Highstrom
-
Patent number: 8682399Abstract: Methods for operating a portable media device are provided. The method includes determining an orientation angle of the portable media device and a frequency spectrum associated with a motion of the portable media player. Based on the orientation angle and the frequency spectrum, the portable media player can determine a motion status and select a mode of operation based on the motion status. In addition, the method also includes determining whether the portable media player is in a dock, resting on a surface, or being handled by a person. The method further includes determining whether the portable media player is located in a moving vehicle, in a stationary vehicle, being held by a moving person, or being held by a stationary person.Type: GrantFiled: December 15, 2009Date of Patent: March 25, 2014Assignee: Apple Inc.Inventor: Stanley Rabu
-
Patent number: 8676270Abstract: A display apparatus capable of executing content of a mobile communication terminal in cooperation with the mobile communication terminal when the display apparatus is communicably connected to the mobile communication terminal is disclosed. The display apparatus comprises: an operation input device for inputting an operation on the content in the display apparatus; an acquisition device for acquiring input information, which indicates that the operation on the content has been inputted in the mobile communication terminal, from the mobile communication terminal; and a display device for showing that the operation on the content has been inputted in the mobile communication terminal when the acquisition device acquires the input information from the mobile communication terminal.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 2012Date of Patent: March 18, 2014Assignee: Denso CorporationInventor: Hiroki Ukai
-
Patent number: 8670798Abstract: An infotainment/telematics system includes a fixed base unit adapted to execute a set of stand-alone infotainment and/or telematics functions and a portable communication device adapted to execute a stand-alone infotainment and/or telematics function. The fixed base unit includes a user interface that is updated when the fixed base unit and the portable communication device are connected for intelligent communication with one another. Additionally, or in the alternative, the portable communication device may include a user interface that is updated when the fixed base unit and portable communication device are connected for intelligent communication with one another.Type: GrantFiled: February 6, 2008Date of Patent: March 11, 2014Assignees: Harman International Industries, Incorporated, Harman Becker Automotive Systems GmbHInventors: Lee Bauer, Erich Geiger
-
Publication number: 20140066133Abstract: An in-vehicle navigation apparatus with a handsfree function establishes a Bluetooth communication link with a cellular phone. When receiving from the cellular phone outgoing call history data and incoming call history data, which were stored in the cellular phone before establishing the Bluetooth communication link, the in-vehicle navigation apparatus stores, in a work memory, the received outgoing call history data and the received incoming call history data, equally to, of the navigation apparatus itself, outgoing call history data and incoming call history data. An outgoing call operation then becomes possible using outgoing call history data and incoming call history data, which are stored in the work memory.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 6, 2013Publication date: March 6, 2014Applicant: DENSO CORPORATIONInventor: Takahisa OZAKI
-
Publication number: 20140066132Abstract: A method of providing hands-free services using a mobile device having wireless access to computer-based services includes establishing a short-range wireless connection between a mobile device and a vehicle; receiving speech in the vehicle that is communicated to a mobile voice platform resident on the mobile device via the short-range wireless connection; parsing the received speech using the mobile voice platform to identify vehicle-specific vocabulary; when vehicle-specific vocabulary exists, identifying at least one vehicle-specific vocabulary term that affects vehicle operation; identifying at least one vehicle function of an inter-related group of vehicle functions that is associated with the identified vehicle-specific vocabulary; determining whether to access one or more cloud services based on the identity of the vehicle function; generating a text-based command reflecting audible control of the affected vehicle function; and sending the text-based command from the mobile device to the vehicle overType: ApplicationFiled: September 5, 2012Publication date: March 6, 2014Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventors: Denis R. Burke, Danilo Gurovich, Daniel E. Rudman, Keith A. Fry, Shane M. McCutchen, Marco T. Carnevale, Mukesh Gupta
-
Patent number: 8666087Abstract: An integrated audio/communication system for use in a motor vehicle includes a processing unit that selectively executes control routines/programs based upon the operational mode of the system. The system may operate in a audio playback mode, and in a telephony mode. In the audio playback mode the processing unit executes a control routine/program associated with audio playback. Whereas, in the telephony mode the processing unit executes a control routine/program associated with telephony. The operational mode of the system may be switched from audio playback to telephony, and visa versa. Selectively configuring the processing unit based upon the operational mode of the system, and allowing the system to easily transition between modes, provides a highly integrated audio/communication system for use in a motor vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2002Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: Harman Becker Automotive Systems GmbHInventor: Gerhard Pfaffinger
-
Patent number: RE44871Abstract: Disclosed are a mobile communication terminal provided with a hands-free function and a controlling method thereof comprising the steps of: setting a hands-free function of a mobile communication terminal; certifying whether an originating call command or a calling request message are received; searching information of a calling party inputted by a user's voice or an arbitrary originating party's information from a mounted telephone directory; and guiding the searched calling party's information by voice and then connecting a calling. According to this, the user can originate or receive a calling by using a voice recognition function and the hands-free function of the terminal without his hands' using even while driving.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 2011Date of Patent: April 29, 2014Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventor: Dong-Jin Yoon
-
Patent number: RE44942Abstract: A mobile communication device is provided. The mobile communication device includes a terminal body, and a speaker module located in the terminal body. The speaker module includes an enclosure located in the terminal body, the enclosure defining a chamber therein, and a speaker having a front surface and a rear surface, the speaker being located in the enclosure such that the front surface of the speaker is exposed from the enclosure and the rear surface thereof is positioned within the chamber, to allow a sound generated from the rear surface to resonate within the chamber. A mutual interference between the sound generated from the front side of the sound emission part and the sound emitted from the rear side thereof can be reduced to thereby improve the performance of the middle and low sound.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2013Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.Inventors: Sung-Tae Lee, Jin-Ho Kim, Jeong-Hoon Kang