Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080197990 | ONBOARD DISPLAY DEVICE, ONBOARD DISPLAY SYSTEM AND VEHICLE - An onboard display device in accordance with the present invention includes a display section ( | 08-21-2008 |
20080204211 | Method for establishing the occupation of a vehicle seat - The invention relates to a method for differentiating between people and other objects on vehicle seats, by recording and evaluating the pressure distribution caused on the seat by said people and objects, the mean deviation of the signal at a certain position in relation to the mean signal of the adjacent region enabling the differentiation between people and other objects to be made. The invention is advantageous in that only few criteria are required and the criteria are not bound to any specific sensor structures (metrical, discrete etc.). Furthermore, where required, the individual criteria need only be combined in a simple manner. | 08-28-2008 |
20080204212 | Method and Device For Driver Support - In a method and a device for driver support, a directional indicator, e.g., the blinker of the vehicle, is actuated when there is a recognized lane change and a lane-change intention is present. | 08-28-2008 |
20080204213 | Sensor Mat Comprising Two Switching Levels - Disclosed is a sensor mat for determining a seat occupation situation of a vehicle seat. Said sensor mat comprises a plurality of sensor cells which can be allocated to a sitting area of the vehicle seat and are configured and interconnected in such a way that an output signal of the sensor mat varies in accordance with the seat occupation situation. At least one first sensor cell and a second sensor cell are interconnected to a pair of sensor cells such that the output signal of the sensor mat exceeds or lies below a predefined threshold value independently of the triggering state of the other sensor cells when the first and the second sensor cell are triggered simultaneously. | 08-28-2008 |
20080211647 | Vehicular display control device - When an event arises in which at least one of a driver and a passenger of a vehicle needs to be warned of a situation of the vehicle, a first determining unit determines contents of a warning, and a second determining unit determines a risk level of the problematic situation based on the contents of the warning determined by the first determining unit. A display control unit displays information on the situation of the vehicle on display in an interrupting manner in a display mode that is set according to the risk level. | 09-04-2008 |
20080218325 | Method for measuring the amount of air in a fluid - One embodiment of the invention includes a method comprising measuring the level of a fluid in a system in a vehicle comprising measuring an electrical property of the fluid indicative of the amount of air in the fluid; and comparing the measured electrical property to a reference. | 09-11-2008 |
20080224838 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR DETERMINING THE REMAINING USEFUL LIFE OF A TRANSMISSION FILTER - A vehicle has a transmission, a transmission filter, and a controller having an algorithm or method for predicting the remaining useful life of the filter. The algorithm or method uses a sensor to detect an operating event of the transmission, such as a completed shift event or zero transmission output speed event, and increases a stored value of an accumulated distance and time variable. A shift sensor is operable for comparing a detected speed ratio of the transmission to a stored threshold speed ratio for determining the completed shift event. The remaining useful filter life is predicted using one or more look up tables using the values of the accumulated distance and time variables. The accumulated distance is calculated in part by dividing a prior recorded accumulated distance value by a ratio of an output speed of the transmission to an actual vehicle speed. | 09-18-2008 |
20080224839 | Method and Device For Localization of the Position of a Wheel of a Vehicle - The invention relates to a method and a device for localization of the position of a wheel ( | 09-18-2008 |
20080224840 | Vehicle meter display system and method for controlling the same - A vehicle meter display system that displays vehicle information including important information includes: a steering wheel that has at least one opening formed between spokes; a meter display unit disposed at a position closer to the front of the vehicle than the steering wheel; a steering angle detection unit that detects the steering angle of the steering wheel; and a meter display control unit that changes the manner in which an important information display area is displayed based on the steering angle detected by the steering angle detection unit so that a diver is able to see the important information through the at least one opening. | 09-18-2008 |
20080238642 | VEHICLE SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PREPARING AN IN-VEHICLE DEVICE - A method for preparing an in-vehicle device includes monitoring a communication bus for one or more messages. The method also includes determining if at least one of the one or more messages corresponds with a message in a list of messages indicative of a change in vehicle state. Data is extracted from the at least one message that corresponds with the message in the list of messages. A signal is transmitted to the in-vehicle device based on the extracted data. A vehicle system that implements the method is also disclosed herein. | 10-02-2008 |
20080238643 | CARGO CARRIER SENSOR SYSTEM - A cargo carrier sensor system including a sensor configured for wireless communication with an associated indicator. The sensor can be attached to rooftop cargo and/or an associated cargo carrier. A detection signal is generated and transmitted by the sensor. When the sensor detects the presence of an obstacle, the sensor transmits a corresponding obstacle signal to the indicator. In response to the obstacle signal, the indicator generates a corresponding warning that is perceptible by an operator of the vehicle upon which the rooftop cargo is positioned. | 10-02-2008 |
20080246595 | LANE GUIDE FOR MOTOR VEHICLES - Devices and methods for aiding drivers in properly positioning a motor vehicle within the lane of a roadway. Devices include visible indicia displayed on the vehicle windshield. The indicia can be positioned such that when the vehicle is properly positioned with respect to the left and/or right side lane marker, the visible indicia will be in the driver's line of sight in a position near the lane marker. If the driver steers the vehicle over the lane marker, the indicia should appear to be over the lane marker as well, in many embodiments. Some indicia include one or more line shaped portions which appear to converge and appear parallel to the lane marker. Other indicia may include one or more dots, which can be oriented in a line to appear parallel with the lane marker, and/or appear at different left to right positions with respect to the lane marker. Some indicia are light emitting devices, which can include fiber optic devices and/or LEDs. | 10-09-2008 |
20080246596 | AIR SPRING DISTANCE INDICATING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A distance indicating system includes a transmitting portion, a transceiver spaced a distance from the transmitting portion, and a receiving portion supported in spaced relation to the transceiver. The transmitting portion broadcasting a first electromagnetic wave. The transceiver receiving the first electromagnetic wave and transmitting a second electromagnetic wave to the receiving portion. The transceiver is operative to modulate the second electromagnetic wave in relation to an input to communicate a signal, data or information, such as the distance between the transmitting portion and the transceiver, an acceleration input, a pressure level or a temperature reading. | 10-09-2008 |
20080252434 | Wheel status monitoring system - The present invention relates to a tire pressure monitoring system for a vehicle using temperature sensors mounted on axles in close proximity to each wheel to detect an increase in temperature generated by a compromised tire and conducted to the axle. The temperature information for each wheel is sent wired or wirelessly to a processor where the magnitude of the temperature is compared with the temperature of an uncompromised wheel. A significant increase in the temperature difference causes an alarm signal to be sent to a monitoring panel along with information that indicates to the driver which wheel is compromised. | 10-16-2008 |
20080252435 | Tire Identification System, Tire Pressure Monitoring System Using The Same and Method For Tire Identification - A tire identification system for use in a vehicle, a tire pressure monitoring system using the same and a method for tire identification are disclosed. The vehicle comprises a plurality of tires and a receiver. Each of the tires comprises a tire identification code. The receiver is used to receive signals. The tire identification system comprises a plurality of memory cards and a remote control device, wherein each of the memory cards comprises a memory card identification code that corresponds to each tire identification code, respectively. Moreover, each of the memory cards can be detachably connected to the remote control device in response to each of the tires. The remote control device comprises a signal transmitter to send a signal with each of the memory card identification codes to the vehicle. | 10-16-2008 |
20080258889 | VEHICLE WITH ALWAYS FORWARD SYSTEM - A system for a vehicle that includes a movable chassis and an operator station rotatable relative to the chassis. The system includes a sensor, an indicator assembly, and a controller. The sensor can detect an orientation of the operator station relative to the chassis, and generates a signal indicative of the orientation of the operator station. The indicator assembly is disposed on the operator station, and includes a first indicator indicative of the operator station oriented in a first direction, and a second indicator indicative of the operator station oriented in a second direction. The controller is in communication with the sensor to receive the signal indicative of the operator station orientation from the sensor, and further is in communication with the indicator assembly to selectively vary the indicator assembly between the first indicator and the second indicator based on the signal indicative of the operator station orientation. | 10-23-2008 |
20080266072 | Warning apparatus for use in vehicle - A warning apparatus acquires traffic light information from outside of a vehicle through a traffic information acquisition unit, and travel information regarding a travel condition of the vehicle through a travel information acquisition unit. Then, the warning apparatus determines whether an intersection is safely passable based on the traffic light information and the travel information. When the intersection is not safely passable, the warning apparatus searches similar traffic light information and similar travel information relative to current traffic light information and current travel information by checking records of past driving operation in a storage unit. Then, the warning apparatus predicts a driving operation of a driver when the driver is warned for determining the warning contents based on the operation information in association with the similar traffic light information and the similar travel information. | 10-30-2008 |
20080278300 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VERIFYING FUEL CAP ENGAGEMENT - A system for verifying fuel cap engagement utilizes a transducer coupled to a purge line of a fuel vapor recovery system to generate an electrical signal corresponding to one of the vapor pressure and the vapor flow rate in the purge line. A monitor receives the electrical signal and estimates the vapor pressure when the electrical signal corresponds to the vapor flow rate. The monitor likewise estimates the vapor flow rate when the electrical signal corresponds to the vapor pressure. The monitor also correlates the electrical signal and the estimate to generate a dataset relating vapor pressures to corresponding vapor flow rates at predetermined time intervals, computes a linear approximation of pressure versus flow rate, and computes a curve approximation of pressure versus flow rate. An indicator is actuated by the monitor when the difference between the computed linear and curve approximations is less than a predetermined threshold value. | 11-13-2008 |
20080284574 | Device for Determining the Roll Angle and System and Method for Roll Stabilization of a Motor Vehicle - The present invention relates to a device for determining the roll angle and a system and a method for roll stabilization of a motor vehicle with a yaw rate sensor arrangement ( | 11-20-2008 |
20080284575 | Vehicle Diagnostic Techniques - Vehicle with diagnostic capability includes different vehicle-resident sensors, each providing a measurement related to a state of the sensor or a measurement related to a state of the mounting location of the sensor, a vehicle-resident diagnostic processor coupled to the sensors and arranged to receive data from the sensors and process the data to generate an output indicative or representative of a state of the vehicle or a state of a component of the vehicle, and a communications device coupled to the diagnostic system and arranged to automatically establish a communications channel between the vehicle and a remote facility without manual intervention and wirelessly transmit the output of the diagnostic system to the remote facility. The processor may embody a pattern recognition algorithm trained to generate the output from the data received from the sensors. | 11-20-2008 |
20080291001 | VEHICLE COUNTDOWN TIMER AND USER INTERFACE - Aspects of the present invention are directed at allowing a vehicle to idle for a predetermined amount of time before shutdown. In accordance with one embodiment, a method is provided that accepts input from the vehicle operator to initiate a countdown to vehicle shutdown. When the input is received, a countdown is initiated that is regularly updated to reflect the passage of time. During the countdown, a vehicle ignition bus is maintained in an active state and a countdown value that reflects the time remaining before shutdown is presented on a graphical display. Then, in response to expiration of the countdown, the method allows the vehicle ignition bus to transition into an inactive state. | 11-27-2008 |
20080297333 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DESIGNING A HEALTH MONITOR SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE - A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for designing a health monitor system for a vehicle. A functional model of the vehicle is created. A hazardous condition is identified that can occur during operation of the vehicle using the functional model. A model of causes is created for the hazardous condition and hazard cause controls are identified to avoid the hazardous condition using the model of causes, wherein the controls prevent causes of the hazardous condition from occurring. A set of monitors is identified to monitor the controls. | 12-04-2008 |
20080297334 | Vehicular information and monitoring system and method - A vehicle monitoring system is provided that is particularly useful for gathering data relating to noise, vibration and harshness (NVH). The system may include noise and vibrations sensors that sense the noise or vibration levels at various vehicle locations. The sensors generate an output signal that is analyzed by a control unit. The control unit compares the output signal with a predetermined value and if the predetermined value is exceeded, the control unit stores the information. The control unit may also receive information from the engine control unit and store that information also. Information from the sensors may also be stored at predetermined intervals. The information may be downloaded to an output device for storing the data and building a database. | 12-04-2008 |
20080309469 | BATTERY MONITORING SYSTEM - A battery monitor for monitoring operations of a battery, such as but not limited to monitoring operations of a vehicle battery. The battery monitor may be configured to monitor current flow and battery temperature. The battery monitor may be connected to a cable used to electrically connect the battery to a number of electronic devices so that the battery monitor is located away from the battery. The battery monitor may include a processing element grounded directly to a negative pole of the battery to facilitate isolating the processing element from noise created by the electronic devices connected to the cable. | 12-18-2008 |
20080309470 | BUILT-IN INSTRUMENT CLUSTER - A built-in instrument cluster for a motor vehicle includes at least one display device, which emits image-forming light and is arranged in the direct field of view of an observer, and at least one illuminated and/or self-illuminating electromechanical indicator device, which is arranged in the observer's field of view, at an angle to the display device, and is moved into the observer's field of view together with the display device via an optical combiner, which is arranged to reflect the image-forming light of the electromechanical indicator device. In order to be able to integrate such an instrument cluster into the tight spatial conditions in the instrument panel in the steering-column region, it is provided that the electromechanical indicator device is at least partially provided by light guides and/or light projectors to save depth at abutting vehicle components. | 12-18-2008 |
20080316009 | In-Vehicle System, Detailed Warning Lamp Information Notification System, and Server System - When a warning lamp | 12-25-2008 |
20090009307 | On-Vehicle Communication Apparatus and Method - An on-vehicle communication apparatus provided with: endpoint radio communication devices each provided for each one or more on-vehicle units; gateway radio communication devices which are respectively arranged in function networks provided with the above-mentioned one or more on-vehicle units, and performs radio communications with the endpoint radio communication devices that are included in the function network; and power sources each provided for any one of the above-mentioned one or more on-vehicle units and the above-mentioned one or more function networks. | 01-08-2009 |
20090021360 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ALERTING A DRIVER OF A HYBRID ELECTRIC VEHICLE THAT THE VEHICLE IS IN A DRIVE STATE - An engine of a hybrid electric vehicle is started following a determination that the vehicle is not moving, the ignition system is in a run state, a door is open, and the engine is not running to alert a driver that the vehicle is in a drive state. | 01-22-2009 |
20090021361 | Vehicle Control Device and Vehicle Provided with the Same - A vehicle control device simplifies input work of a password that puts a vehicle in a usable state, on an emergency occasion, in which a portable equipment (smart key) cannot be used. A system display unit flashes on an emergency occasion when a password is input without the use of the smart key. A hazard switch is operated to enter a character of the password corresponding to a number of times that the system display unit flashes. | 01-22-2009 |
20090040032 | Hybrid drive mode indicator - A motorized vehicle that is capable of operating in a mode in which motive power is being supplied wholly or partially from electric power is provided with an exterior indicator showing this mode of operation to other vehicle operators. In this way other drivers are alerted to the fact that the vehicle is under electric power and is not likely to be accelerated, particularly uphill. | 02-12-2009 |
20090051517 | Light emitter for vehicle and apparatus for alerting opening/closing of sliding door using the same - A light emitter for vehicle which can be easily mounted to a vehicle body, and an apparatus for alerting opening/closing of a sliding door using the same are provided. A light emitter for vehicle has an elongated base member. The base member is flexible, and has a recess formed in one surface side thereof along the longitudinal direction of the side. The recess has a bottom surface on which a flexible substrate is disposed with one end thereof being connected with a cable which is inserted into the base member from the tip end of the base member. The flexible substrate is provided with a resistor, a surge suppressor diode, and a plurality of LEDs arranged in line on the flexible substrate. The recess is filled with a transparent resin. The base member has an adhesive layer formed on the other surface side, with a release paper adhered to the adhesive layer. | 02-26-2009 |
20090058623 | Digital radio broadcast receiver, radio broadcast receiving unit and digital radio broadcast receiving system - A digital radio broadcast receiver, a radio broadcast receiving unit and a digital radio broadcast receiving system are provided. Character information stored in a memory is displayed as image on a display device when such a condition that a vehicle speed is 0 km/h and a foot brake or a hand brake is on is satisfied, i.e., when a vehicle is halted or parked. Or, the character information stored in the memory is outputted as voice through a voice output device when such a condition that the vehicle speed is 0 km/h and the foot brake or the hand brake is on is not satisfied, i.e., when the vehicle is traveling. | 03-05-2009 |
20090066493 | AUDIO COORDINATED VISUAL INDICATOR - An audio-coordinated visual indicator device reducing vehicle operator distraction associated with using a communications device during vehicle operation. The visual indicator being placed within the operator's field of view and provides a synchronized visual display associated with the output from the communication device. Providing an apparent visual anchor for the incoming sound freeing up the operator's mental resources, reduces distraction and allows greater attention to be placed on operation. Comprising of a receiver; a visual indicator connected to an output of the receiver having an attribute that varies according to the received signal from the communication device. | 03-12-2009 |
20090066494 | FAILURE INFORMATION DETECTION DEVICE, FAILURE INFORMATION DETECTION SYSTEM, SERVER, AND FAILURE INFORMATION DETECTION METHOD - A failure information detection device that detects abnormality of a vehicle-mounted device that is mounted in a vehicle has: an attachment detection portion that detects whether a first component part has been attached to the vehicle; an abnormality detection portion that detects abnormality of a second component part that is disposed on the first component part; and an abnormality information discernment portion that discerns that abnormality information regarding the abnormality is not based on a failure of the vehicle-mounted device if the attachment detection portion detects that the first component part has not been attached to the vehicle. | 03-12-2009 |
20090102632 | DISPLAY SYSTEM, SCREEN DESIGN SETTING TOOL, DISPLAY SYSTEM PROGRAM, SCREEN DESIGN SETTING PROGRAM, AND RECORDING MEDIUM - A display system includes a combination image dividing section arranged to divide a single combination image composed of a plurality of item images into a plurality of image blocks such that each of the image blocks has an item image; an image inputting controlling section arranged to lay out the individual image blocks; and an image inputting controlling section arranged to generate display data based on the image blocks laid out thereby. This can achieve a display system, to be mounted in the maneuverable moving object and having high degrees of freedom for screen layout, at a lower cost. | 04-23-2009 |
20090115586 | Multifunctional collimator indicator - The present invention relates to indication systems providing augmented visual support for the operator of a motor vehicle, vessel or an aircraft. The indication system is positioned in the location of a traditional vehicular gauge dashboard. The indication system consists of an image formulator and an optical collimator system with two visual channels. Lower channel is used for direct visual tracking of all virtual gauge readings while the upper channel is used to track updates “on the windshield” of a vehicle with the background of the surrounding environment. The lower channel displays virtual collimator imaging of the traditional analog or digital gauges as well as navigational system data. The upper channel is reflected onto the exterior background of the windshield and displays collimator imaged critical data that is required for the safe operation of a vehicle. To provide the switching functionality between the two channels, the indication system utilizes a lightproof partition. The side of the partition facing the image formulator is designed as a flat reflective mirror. In order to engage the lower channel, the partition is placed away from the optical systems for the lower channel. To provide viewing of the upper channel, the partition is positioned along the optical axis of the upper collimator lens at a given angle. To provide the function of automatic switching between the channels, the multifunctional collimator indicator is equipped with an eye position tracking system which tracks real-time position of the eye's pupil. | 05-07-2009 |
20090115587 | Single-Chip Microcomputer Controller for Automobile Instruments - This invention makes known by the single-chip microcomputer controller for the automobile instruments. Its characteristic is that that one port of the presetting parameters keyboard links with the master chip, another port is grounded. One port of the presetting parameters switch links with the master chip, another port is grounded. The master chip links with many signal lines to collect the analog signal, the digital signal and the switch signal. Through the above presetting, the present invention makes the automobile instruments not only adapt various car sensors, but also adapt different parameters. So the invention makes the automobile instruments adapt various cars. | 05-07-2009 |
20090115588 | EMERGENCY INTERVENTION SYSTEM AND APPROPRIATE METHOD FOR AUTOMATICALLY REDRESSING MALFUNCTIONS IN MEANS OF TRANSPORT - The invention proposes an emergency intervention system and a method for automatically redressing malfunctions in means of transport ( | 05-07-2009 |
20090121853 | INSTRUMENT CLUSTER LENS INFORMATION, TELLTAILS, AND LIGHTING - An instrument cluster for use in a passenger vehicle includes a translucent sheet. The sheet is located in front of at least one of an appliqué, a display face, and a pointer of the instrument cluster. Indicia are embedded in the translucent sheet. The indicia has a first visual state and a second visual state, the indicia being more noticeable in its second visual state than in its first visual state. | 05-14-2009 |
20090121854 | OCCUPANCY DETECTING METHOD AND SYSTEM - A method of and a system for detecting a person occupying a vehicle seat or a corresponding underlay whereby the underlay is provided with a single dynamic sensor and whereby the measurement signal is compared with a reference signal in comparing means, wherein the system comprises first measuring means for measuring a first measurement signal in a first frequency band representing a signal for human presence, and second measuring means for measuring the reference signal as a second measurement signal in a second frequency band representing a signal for background noise, comparing means for indicating an occupancy, wherein the signal strength in the first measurement signal in the first frequency band of human presence signal domination is compared to the signal strength in the reference signal in the second frequency band where essentially only background noise exists. | 05-14-2009 |
20090128312 | Switch having information display function for on-vehicle apparatus - A compartment temperature adjustment switch | 05-21-2009 |
20090153314 | Indicator Display Module - An indicator display module includes a display face for informing an operator of a monitored condition and a housing having first and second ends. The display face is attached to the first end. The housing provides support to electrical components located within the housing. A cover is fixedly attached to the housing and engages the second end of the housing. A seal is positioned within the housing, forming a sealed cavity around the electrical components stored within the housing. | 06-18-2009 |
20090167515 | AUTOMATED TELLTALE IDENTIFICATION - A vehicle display device includes a display panel having a light emitting device. The display device further includes a display panel cover coupled to the display panel. The display panel cover has a translucent indicium that corresponds to the light emitting device. A signal transmitting device is provided on the display panel cover for sending a signal corresponding to the indicium on the display panel cover. The display device also has a signal receiving device capable of receiving a signal transmitted by the signal transmitting device and sending the signal to a control module. The control module is adapted to selectively operate the light emitting device according to the signal transmitted by the signal transmitting device. | 07-02-2009 |
20090174537 | CUSTOMIZABLE VEHICLE INFORMATION DISPLAY - A system and method for creating a customizable video display in a vehicle is provided for allowing a user to select what driving information is to be displayed. The system having a video display device fixed on the instrument panel of a vehicle, and an input device allowing users to choose what to view and the size the information will appear in, from a list of vehicle driver information. The method having the steps of providing a list of driver information from which the user may select, selecting the desired driver information to be displayed, selecting the size the information will be displayed in, and displaying the information on the video display device. | 07-09-2009 |
20090174538 | Display Device of Cargo Handling Vehicle and Hybrid Cargo Handling Vehicle Equipped With the Display Device - A display device of a hybrid cargo handling vehicle and a hybrid cargo handling vehicle equipped with the display device are provided, with which whether operation is performed by engine drive or motor drive or engine plus motor drive and whether driving operation, i.e. energy consuming operation or energy recovering operation is performed is indicated on a monitor screen, and also fuel consumption rate of the engine, state of charge of the battery, and position of center of gravity of the vehicle are indicated on the monitor screen in both traveling and cargo handling operations, so that the operator is possible by monitoring the displayed indications to perform safe operation of the cargo handling vehicle with high efficiency and high cargo handling power without occurrence of slip down of the cargo or fall down of the vehicle. | 07-09-2009 |
20090184812 | User Configured Display System For Motor Vehicle - The present invention is directed toward a data acquisition and display system for vehicles that connects to the vehicle's on-board computer(s) via a data link connector (DLC). The system includes a display module suitable for permanent or temporary attachment within the interior of a vehicle. The display module preferably includes a full color monitor that also functions as a touch screen for inputting commands to the computer within the display module. The computer includes a suitable processor, operating system, software and tangible data storage media to allow multiple user configurable graphics. The display module collects information from the vehicle via multiple busses and senders through the data link connector and displays the information on the screen of the display module in a user configured graphics format. The software is constructed and arranged to allow user configuration of the displayed graphics by clicking or touching the graphics image. | 07-23-2009 |
20090195372 | Apparatus for extracting operating object and apparatus for projecting operating hand - An operating object extraction apparatus uses a camera, a light, a memory, an operation panel, a hand detector, a capture controller, and an image controller for displaying an operating object such as an operating finger of an operator's hand, when the operating object extraction apparatus is used in combination with a navigation apparatus in a vehicle for remotely controlling the navigation apparatus by an input from the operation panel that that is disposed separately from the navigation apparatus. The operating finger of the operator's hand is displayed as a finger image on the display unit under control of the capture controller and the image controller in a manner that a finger tip of the operating finger occupies only a small portion relative to the size of the operation panel. | 08-06-2009 |
20090207008 | Lug Stud and Lug Nut Monitoring System, Method, and Components Therefor - A lug stud and lug nut monitoring system, method, and components for a vehicle may have a lug stud, a lug nut, at least one sensor, and an indicator. The lug stud has a shank. The lug nut is constructed to fasten on the shank. The sensor can be carried by the lug stud, by the lug nut, or by both the lug stud and the lug nut. The sensor takes at least one measurement. The indicator communicates with the sensor in order to determine a value based on the measurement, and to alert an operator of the vehicle if and when the value reaches a predetermined relationship to a reference value. | 08-20-2009 |
20090251301 | IGNITION DEVICE OF INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE - When an insulation resistance value of an ignition plug is smaller than a prescribed value, an engine operation state is switched so as to raise a temperature of the ignition plug, thereby promoting deposit cleaning. Such a measures-against-deposit carrying-out state is counted. When a count value exceeds a certain value, that is, when the measures against deposit have sufficiently been performed but the insulation resistance value of the ignition plug is smaller than the prescribed value, it is determined that conductive deposit has adhered to the ignition plug, and for example, an alarm light is turned on in order to urge a driver to perform maintenance of the ignition plug. | 10-08-2009 |
20090251302 | Vehicle Misfueling Mitigation System and Method - A method is provided to indicate improper fuel filling in a vehicle. An indicator is actuated if a proportion of alcohol in the fuel is outside a range of expected proportions. In some examples, the range corresponds to a non-flex fuel vehicle recommended range, or to a normal range for a low alcohol-content fuel, which may be between 0 and 15 percent alcohol by volume. The indicator may include a diagnostic code or a dash light. Further, the indicator may be actuated in combination with a mitigating action, which may involve adjustment of a fuel injector pulse width or an ignition spark timing, as examples. | 10-08-2009 |
20090261960 | PIT ROAD DISPLAY - Instruments or gauges arranged to provide feedback detectable by the peripheral vision of a driver when vehicle operating parameters, such as engine speed, temperature, pressure, and voltage, are in a critical range, include one or more of the following types of instruments or gauges and/or features: (a) a tachometer that not only includes a primary numeric display, but also a secondary display made up of a plurality of discrete lights of different colors, the colors indicating whether the engine speed of a vehicle is within a relatively narrow range of engine speeds acceptable for the roadway leading from a race track to service areas, known as “pit road,” the high and low limits of the range being adjustable to meet pit road requirements at different tracks; (b) an instrument or gauge having a background that illuminates to indicate critical sensor readings; (c) an instrument or gauge having improved handling of sensor abnormalities to prevent false readings; (d) a non-linear analog gauge for a motor vehicle having a higher resolution in a particular range of interest, and a lower resolution outside that range; and (e) a boost pressure gauge that facilitates entry of gear information for use in traction control. The instruments or gauges of the invention are suitable for use in racing vehicles that meet standards established by NASCAR. | 10-22-2009 |
20090273457 | DISPLAY SYSTEM - A display system for displaying an opening state of a motor vehicle door is provided that includes, but is not limited to a sensor system for detecting an opening state of the motor vehicle door. A display unit is connected to the sensor system for displaying the opening state of the motor vehicle door. A display element is redundantly connected redundantly to the sensor system is provided for displaying the opening state of the motor vehicle door. The probability of the display system correctly indicating the opening state of the motor vehicle door is thereby increased. | 11-05-2009 |
20090295556 | SAFETY DEVICE FOR POWER WINDOW, OPENING/CLOSING CONTROL METHOD AND PLATE-GLASS PROCESSING METHOD - A safety device for a power window is achieved, which considers variation in capacitance during raising of a window glass, and considers variation in capacitance due to a use situation so as to reduce a possibility of false operation. | 12-03-2009 |
20090295557 | Seat Belt Warning System - A safety belt warning system for vehicles comprises a sensor mat for the detection of a force acting on its surface, which includes, for the formation of two electrical capacitors, two dielectric layers which are located one above the other in sandwich fashion and arranged in each case between electrically conductive coats, and which have different compressibility at least in the direction of loading due to force, so that the capacitances of the two capacitors vary differently with a load on the sensor mat. | 12-03-2009 |
20090295558 | INFORMATION SERVICE SYSTEM FOR VEHICLE - An information service system for a vehicle includes: an information obtaining element for obtaining information, which includes classification information for defining an importance level and an urgency level; a plurality of information output elements having various sensory types so that the information output elements inform the information of an user with various sensory types; a user load detector for detecting a physical and mental load of the user; a selector for selecting one or more information output elements according to the classification information; and a controller for controlling to output the information with the one or more information output elements. The selector selects the one or more information output elements based on the physical and mental load and a priority order of the information. | 12-03-2009 |
20090315694 | PIEZOELECTRIC TRIGGERING MECHANISM - A piezoelectric triggering mechanism ( | 12-24-2009 |
20090315695 | Motor Vehicle - A motor vehicle is provided having a wireless interface to a mobile terminal, a storage unit in which information about vehicle functions is stored, and a control unit, which is set up such that information about terminal functions is transmitted from the terminal to the control unit via the wireless interface. The information about vehicle functions is compared to the information about terminal functions, and information about corresponding vehicle functions and terminal functions is stored in the storage unit. | 12-24-2009 |
20090322503 | INDICATOR APPARATUS FOR HYBRID VEHICLE, HYBRID VEHICLE, INDICATING METHOD FOR HYBRID VEHICLE - An indicator portion ( | 12-31-2009 |
20090322504 | Multizone capacitive anti-pinch system - An anti-pinch assembly is used for a closure panel movable between open and closed positions on a motor vehicle. A controller operably connected to the closure panel controls operation thereof. A position sensor connected to the controller indicates the position of the closure panel between the open and closed positions. A capacitive sensor mounted on the vehicle and connected to the controller provides an output signal to the controller indicative of the presence of a foreign object in the path of the closure panel. The controller varies the function of the capacitive sensor through a plurality of threshold levels as a function of the position of the closure panel as indicated by the position indicator. In a critical zone of travel with the closure panel nearing the closed position, the capacitive sensor can be utilized in either a contact mode or a non-contact mode or a combination of both. | 12-31-2009 |
20090322505 | PIT ROAD DISPLAY - Instruments or gauges arranged to provide feedback detectable by the peripheral vision of a driver when vehicle operating parameters, such as engine speed, temperature, pressure, and voltage, are in a critical range, include one or more of the following types of instruments or gauges and/or features: (a) a tachometer that not only includes a primary numeric display, but also a secondary display made up of a plurality of discrete lights of different colors, the colors indicating whether the engine speed of a vehicle is within a relatively narrow range of engine speeds acceptable for the roadway leading from a race track to service areas, known as “pit road,” the high and low limits of the range being adjustable to meet pit road requirements at different tracks; (b) an instrument or gauge having a background that illuminates to indicate critical sensor readings; (c) an instrument or gauge having improved handling of sensor abnormalities to prevent false readings; (d) a non-linear analog gauge for a motor vehicle having a higher resolution in a particular range of interest, and a lower resolution outside that range; and (e) a boost pressure gauge that facilitates entry of gear information for use in traction control. The instruments or gauges of the invention are suitable for use in racing vehicles that meet standards established by NASCAR. | 12-31-2009 |
20100001850 | Rear View Mirror, Monitoring Apparatus and Monitoring Method - The embodiment relates to a rear view mirror, a monitoring apparatus and a monitoring method. The monitoring apparatus comprises a mirror for showing an object; a camera module obtaining image data from the object and processing the image data; and a display module for displaying the image data processed by the camera module. | 01-07-2010 |
20100001851 | PRESSURE TANK AND DETECTION METHOD OF PRESSURE TANK INTERNAL ABNORMALITY - A pressure tank including, a tank wall; a supporting member which includes fiber reinforced plastic and supports an outer surface of the tank wall; a supersonic wave sensor which is connected to the tank wall, and which detects a sonic wave propagated in the tank wall; and an internal abnormality determination member which is connected to the supersonic wave sensor, and which determines whether an internal abnormality exits in the tank wall, wherein the internal abnormality determination member determines the existence of the internal abnormality based on the detection result during gas is charged into the pressure tank, and outputs an abnormality signal when the internal abnormality was determined to exist. | 01-07-2010 |
20100026475 | EXTERIOR REAR VIEW MIRROR WITH INDICATOR LIGHT - The invention describes a rear view mirror including a reflective element in a cavity of a mirror housing with a mirror head and a mirror base. An indicator light for indicating situation information to a vehicle driver is installed, wherein the indicator light includes light sources and an optical element that allows the light to shine through. The indicator light has a split printed circuit board to support at least two light source elements and a light guide wherein the light emitted from the light sources is coupled into the end faces of the light guide. | 02-04-2010 |
20100033312 | MOBILE WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS DEVICE BLOCKER AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - A vehicle wireless communications blocker may be used in a vehicle for an occupant's wireless communications device and may include a long-range and short-range wireless transceiver both coupled to a controller. The controller may be switchable between off-hook and on-hook states based upon control signals via the short-range wireless transceiver, and the occupant's wireless communications device may be blocked from occupant communication via the long-range transceiver when in the off-hook state. The blocker may include a housing to be installed in the vehicle, a short-range wireless transceiver carried by the housing to wirelessly communicate with the short-range wireless transceiver of the occupant's wireless communications device, and a controller carried by the housing and coupled to the short-range wireless transceiver to selectively switch the controller of the occupant's wireless communications device to the off-hook state so that the occupant's wireless communications device is blocked from occupant communication via the long-range transceiver. | 02-11-2010 |
20100033313 | AMBIENT SITUATION AWARENESS SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VEHICLES - At least one exemplary embodiment is directed to a method of situation awareness facilitation for a vehicle driver comprising: receiving a first acoustic signal from outside a vehicle that the driver is in and converting the first acoustic signal into a first acoustic electronic signal; sending the first acoustic electronic signal to a processor; matching the first acoustic electronic signal by the processor to stored reference electronic signals; and sending an acoustic message associated with a matched reference electronic signal to a speaker in the cab of the vehicle. | 02-11-2010 |
20100039248 | Vehicle window position indicator - A device for installation in an automobile including a passenger car, minivan or bus (e.g., a school bus) indicates the position of each window and emergency exit of the vehicle and sounds an alarm to indicate to the driver of the vehicle that one or more of the windows and/or emergency exits is open. The alarm may be a combination of a visual lighted display on the driver console and/or an audible alarm indicator. The visual indicator may further indicate the operative position of any particular window or emergency door opening between the closed position, slight open, half open and fully open positions. The device alerts the driver of the vehicle to correct the window position of each window and emergency exit of the vehicle for purposes of safety as well as to prevent robbery and/or damage to the vehicle (e.g., from rain, sprinklers, etc.) when leaving the vehicle unoccupied. The device may also alert the driver to crack the windows partially open when leaving a pet in the vehicle for a short time. | 02-18-2010 |
20100045450 | VEHICLE - A communication unit ( | 02-25-2010 |
20100060442 | DISPLAY DEVICE FOR VEHICLE - The present invention provides a display device for a vehicle that display an amount of a particulate matter collected in a filter device for exhaust gas purification. A vehicle | 03-11-2010 |
20100066520 | DISPLAY - The display and/or lighting for the interior of a vehicle comprising at least two stacked layers each comprising at least one OLED. | 03-18-2010 |
20100066521 | VEHICLE-MOUNTED MALFUNCTION NOTIFICATION APPARATUS AND VEHICLE-MOUNTED MALFUNCTION NOTIFICATION METHOD - A vehicle-mounted malfunction notification apparatus having a communication malfunction notification unit that notifies a vehicle operator of a communications malfunction when a malfunction occurring in a communications device persists for a specified period of time, includes a maintenance operation checking unit and a maintenance operation processing unit. The maintenance operation checking unit determines whether a maintenance operation for the communications device is being performed. The maintenance operation processing unit notifies the vehicle operator that the maintenance operation is being performed when the maintenance operation checking unit determines that the maintenance operation is being performed. | 03-18-2010 |
20100085174 | MONITORING SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE - A monitoring system for a car ( | 04-08-2010 |
20100085175 | DEVICE FOR DETECTION OF SURFACE CONDITION DATA - A device is disclosed for detection of surface properties or conditions, in particular detection of water, snow and ice and in particular to road surfaces by means of detector means mounted on individual vehicles, and transmitting the data from the vehicle, preferably together with position data of the vehicle, to be used by drivers of other vehicles for warning of slippery road conditions ahead of the vehicle. According to a particular aspect, it has been realised that the fact that polarized light which is mirror reflected by e.g. ice or water on a surface, preserves its polarization, whereas polarized light which is diffuse reflected largely becomes depolarized, may be utilised to separate the two types of reflection and thus provide a much more compact sensor device for surface properties, in which the light may be emitted close to or parallel to the road surface normal. | 04-08-2010 |
20100090816 | Computer Screen Blanking Systems - A system for detecting vehicular motion to blank a computer screen. The system includes filtering the motion to determine whenever the motion is consistent with vehicular motion. The system includes communicating the vehicular motion to a computer. The system includes blanking the screen of the computer whenever detecting vehicular motion and blanking the screen of the computer whenever the motion detector is not attached the portable computer. | 04-15-2010 |
20100090817 | VEHICLE ELECTRONIC KEY SYSTEM - A vehicle electronic portable key system including a master key and sub-key. A retainer is arranged in the vehicle to retain the sub-key. A control unit determines whether the master key or sub-key is located in a vehicle interior or exterior wireless communicatable area. When the key is located in one of the wireless communicatable areas, the control unit permits various operations of the vehicle in accordance with the communicable area in which the key is located. The control unit determines that the sub-key is in a lent state if the sub-key is removed from the retainer when the master key is located in the interior wireless communicatable area. In a state in which the sub-key is located in one of the wireless communicatable areas after removal from the retainer, the control unit limits the operations of the vehicle unless the sub-key is determined as being in the lent state. | 04-15-2010 |
20100097201 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ACQUIRING INTEGRATED OPERATIONAL AND SUPPORT DATA FOR A VEHICLE - Methods and apparatus are provided for acquiring integrated operational data and support data regarding a vehicle. The apparatus comprising a network interface for communicating with the vehicle and a processor that is coupled to the network interface. The processor is configured to transmit a first request for operational data to the vehicle, receive the requested operational data from the vehicle, the requested operational data including at least one event indicator, and retrieve the support data that corresponds to a selected event indicator from a stored location. | 04-22-2010 |
20100123568 | SUSPENSION HEIGHT SENSOR - A system is provided for determining a distance between a first portion of a vehicular suspension assembly and a second portion of the suspension assembly. The system comprises a transceiver coupled to the first portion for emitting a first signal toward the second portion, and for receiving a reflection of the first signal from the second portion, and a processor coupled to the transceiver for determining the distance between the first portion and the second portion. | 05-20-2010 |
20100164702 | AUTOMOTIVE DISPLAY SYSTEM AND DISPLAY METHOD - An automotive display system includes an image projection unit and an angle information acquisition unit. The image projection unit projects a light flux including an image including a display object toward one eye of an image viewer. The angle information acquisition unit acquires at least one of vehicle angle information and external environment angle information. The vehicle angle information relates to an angle of at least one of an attitude and a heading of a vehicle carrying the image viewer. The external environment angle information relates to an angle of a background object at a target position of the display object in a background of an external environment of the vehicle. The image projection unit changes an angle of the display object in the image based on at least one of the vehicle angle information and the external environment angle information acquired by the angle information acquisition unit. | 07-01-2010 |
20100164703 | Method for assisting high-performance driving of a vehicle - An assistance method for performance driving of a vehicle; the assistance method includes the steps of: identifying a route used by the vehicle; on each section of the route, identifying the optimum point for the operation of an accelerator command, a brake command, a steering command and/or a gearbox command; identifying the current position of the vehicle along the route; identifying the next optimum point for the operation of a command; identifying a warning advance in accordance with an estimate of the reaction time of the driver and in accordance with the current speed and acceleration of the vehicle; and signalling to the driver to operate the command using the previously identified warning advance so that the driver actually operates the command at the optimum point of operation. | 07-01-2010 |
20100171604 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR LOCATING THE WHEELS OF A VEHICLE - A method and device for locating n wheels of a vehicle each equipped with an electronic module designed to emit, to a central unit, electromagnetic signals representative of operating parameters of each wheel and an identification code of the latter. There is, in a fixed position on the vehicle, in the vicinity of at least (n-1) wheels, a radio-tag in which is stored a location code, able to be identified by the central unit and enable the latter to locate the position of the radio-tag on the vehicle. In order to locate the wheels, an activation of each radio-tag is controlled so as to deliver to the central unit a signal incorporating the location code of this radio-tag associated with the identification code of the wheel located in the vicinity of the latter. The electromagnetic signals incorporate a final portion consisting of a pure wave, and the activation of the radio-tags is done so as to insert the location codes into the electromagnetic signals by modulating the absorption/reflection of the pure waves. | 07-08-2010 |
20100176938 | GAUGE DEVICE - Provided is a gauge device that can provide innovativeness to representation during an operation of effect creation, and can improve the marketability and designability. A gauge device | 07-15-2010 |
20100182140 | ON-VEHICLE INFORMATION PROVIDING DEVICE - In an on-vehicle information providing device including an input device | 07-22-2010 |
20100194552 | Method for driver personalization based on tunnel detection for a single-tuner system - A method of operating a vehicle includes receiving a radio frequency signal and determining that the radio frequency signal has at least one characteristic indicative of the vehicle entering a tunnel. A setting of a vehicle system is automatically modified in response to the determining step. | 08-05-2010 |
20100194553 | HYBRID VEHICLE - An energy gauge includes a first section indicating a remaining amount of fuel, a second section indicating a remaining amount of stored electric power and a baseline. The first section and the second section extend to the right and left with respect to the baseline. A sub-section indicating the remaining amount of fuel and a sub-section indicating the remaining amount of stored electric power are displayed continuously and integrally across the baseline, commonly starting from the baseline. The first section and the second section are arranged at the right and left sides, respectively, with respect to the baseline in correspondence with the positions at which a fuel inlet and a charging inlet are disposed. | 08-05-2010 |
20100207750 | INFORMATION GENERATING DEVICE, CONTROL DEVICE PROVIDED WITH THE SAME, INFORMATION PROVIDING SYSTEM FOR MOBILE BODY, MODULE FOR DRIVER'S SEAT, AND MOBILE BODY - A DPF controller ( | 08-19-2010 |
20100219945 | Method for Displaying the Remaining Range of a Motor Vehicle - A method displays the remaining range of a motor vehicle. The method determines repeatedly estimated values relating to the remaining range of the motor vehicle based on a fill level of an energy storage unit and at least one additional motor-vehicle state influencing the remaining range. A first remaining-range value is determined based on the estimated values and displayed as a first display value by a first graphical element on the display device. An updated second remaining-range value is determined during the display of the first display value. If the difference, in terms of amount, between the first and the second remaining-range values exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the second remaining-range value is displayed as a second display value by a second graphical element in addition to the first display value on the display device. | 09-02-2010 |
20100225462 | In-Vehicle emergency report apparatus - In an emergency report apparatus in a vehicle, even though a power switch is turned into an OFF state, an execution enabled state of an emergency report process is maintained when an occupant is determined to be in the vehicle. Therefore, even when a necessity of executing an emergency report process arises after the power switch is turned into the OFF state, it is unnecessary to turn the power switch into the ON state, thereby improving the usability. In addition, after the power switch is turned into the OFF state, an execution disabled state is designated when the occupant is determined to be not in the vehicle. Such an execution disabled state restricts the electric power supply from an in-vehicle battery, thereby reducing the power consumption and helping prevent the battery from running out. | 09-09-2010 |
20100231370 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR IDENTIFYING SENSORS HOUSED IN TYRES - The invention relates to a method of identifying sensors (C | 09-16-2010 |
20100238007 | VEHICLE HAVING TIRE WEAR EVALUATION SYSTEM - A vehicle which evaluates tire wear properly even in a road condition that tires easily slip or lock up. The vehicle, which has a driven wheel and a driving wheel with tires attached thereto, includes: a revolution speed detector for detecting revolution speeds of the driven and driving wheels; a wheel speed detector for detecting wheel speeds of the driven and driving wheels based on the detected revolution speed data of the driven and driving wheels; a wheel speed ratio detector for detecting a wheel speed ratio between the driven and driving wheels based on the detected wheel speed data of the driven and driving wheels; and a tire condition evaluator for outputting an evaluation result indicating that the tire(s) attached to the driven wheel and/or driving wheel is(are) worn when the wheel speed ratio is higher than a preset threshold. | 09-23-2010 |
20100238008 | DISPLAY SYSTEM, DISPLAY DATA OUTPUT DEVICE, DISPLAY CONTROL DEVICE, DISPLAY CONTROL METHOD, DISPLAY CONTROL PROGRAM, AND COMPUTER-READABLE RECORDING MEDIUM - A display system of the present invention includes a liquid crystal platform section ( | 09-23-2010 |
20100245067 | Method for Operating a Communications Accessory Device - The present application relates to a communications accessory device, system and method for a motor vehicle having an ignition variable between an “ON”-state and an “OFF”-state, wherein the device and system comprises a permanent power supply line input and an ignition sense line input, wherein the device and system further comprises a control logic directly or indirectly connected to both inputs, and wherein, when not installed, the power supply status of both inputs is “LOW” and, when properly installed in a motor vehicle the power supply status of the permanent power supply line input is permanently “HIGH” and the power supply status of the ignition sense line input is “HIGH” when the ignition of the motor vehicle is “ON” and is “LOW” when the ignition of the motor vehicle is “OFF”. A method of the present application comprises individually detecting the power supply status of the power supply line input and of the ignition sense line input and, in response thereto, at least setting a wrong installation status flag when a power supply status “LOW” of the power supply line input is detected while a power supply status “HIGH” of the ignition sense line input is detected. | 09-30-2010 |
20100259373 | Storage device of car event data recorder - A storage device of car event data recorders is revealed. The storage device of car event data recorders includes at least two sets of memory or at least one memory set with at least two memory areas. The first memory module (or area) is used to record real time audio/video data with continuous attributes while the second memory module (or area) is for retrieving and recording audio/video data at the time of the accident and/or pre-alarm audio/video data before the accident and/or post-alarm audio/video data after the accident. The interval before or after the accident may be a few decades of seconds. Thereby the storage device of car event data recorders can perform long-term safety control operations and completely record real time audio/video data during, before and after each event. Therefore, certain audio/video data is stored for long-term preservation and checked. Thus the efficiency of the storage device of car event data recorders is improved. | 10-14-2010 |
20100265050 | Vehicle Information Display And Method - An information display system for a hybrid electric vehicle configured to display one or more reasons an engine is on is provided. The information display system determines which engine on reasons are true and applies a prioritization strategy to determine which engine on reasons are displayed to an operator via an information display. | 10-21-2010 |
20100265051 | Detecting Faults In A Wiring Harness - Cell voltages within a battery pack and a voltage delivered to a load or drive system, along with a current delivered to the system, are monitored and used to detect a possible abnormal condition of a wiring harness. | 10-21-2010 |
20100265052 | Unified Vehicle Parameters - Data flow from a vehicle telematics device to a remote host, rationalized regardless of the source of the data and its format. Disclosed is a method to unify and process data from multiple sources into singular information for use within the telematics device for vehicle usage data, driver performance, and location data. | 10-21-2010 |
20100271190 | ROAD TRAFFIC MIRROR WITH ACTIVE INDICATING MODULE - An exemplary road traffic mirror includes a casing, a mirror, a monitor, a processor, and an indicating module. The mirror and the hollow casing define a chamber therein, and the mirror includes a transparent glass and a reflection film formed on the transparent glass, wherein the reflection film is a narrow band pass film. The monitor is configured to automatically monitor road conditions and generate corresponding road condition signals. The processor is configured to analyze the road condition signals, and to generate switching signals. The indicating module is received in the chamber and facing the mirror, wherein the indicating module is configured to be activated by the switching signal and emit corresponding light rays, the light rays of the indicating module passing through the reflection film and forming an indication sign on the outside of the road traffic mirror. | 10-28-2010 |
20100277298 | DETECTION SYSTEM AND METHOD THEREOF - A detection system and method for detecting an object adjacent a vehicle is provided, wherein the detection system includes a plurality of thermopile sensors and a processor. The plurality of thermopile sensors include a first thermopile sensor and second thermopile sensor. The detection system further includes a processor in communicative connection with the plurality of thermopile sensors, the processor being adapted to receive a signal from a vehicle component as to an operating condition of the vehicle, wherein the processor is configured to command at least one of the first and second thermopile sensors to auto-align, and determine a detection of an object that is adjacent to the vehicle as a function one of a plurality of detection modes, the plurality of detection modes being based upon movement of the vehicle with respect to the vehicle's normal operating position. | 11-04-2010 |
20100283592 | METHOD OF DISPLAYING A POINTER ON A DISPLAY AREA OF A VEHICLE INSTRUMENT PANEL - The invention relates to a method for displaying a pointer on a display surface of a vehicle instrument panel, wherein: | 11-11-2010 |
20100295669 | METHOD FOR DETERMINING A VEHICLE TIRE TREAD DEPTH - A method is described for determining a vehicle tire tread depth using at least one sensor situated in or on the vehicle tire, the tire tread depth being determined as a function of a tire contact area detected by the sensor. | 11-25-2010 |
20100308986 | System for Transmitting Data Between a Hybrid Electric Vehicle and a Remote Transceiver - A method of transmitting driver specific vehicle data includes entering driver specific hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) operating parameter settings for a plurality of drivers into a vehicle controller; identifying a vehicle driver; displaying driver specific HEV data within the vehicle; and configuring HEV operating parameters in accordance with the driver specific HEV operating parameter settings. | 12-09-2010 |
20100321175 | Alerts Issued Upon Component Detection Failure - A system and method for alerting interested parties of component failure are provided. The system made up of a diagnostic tool for identifying a failed component, a reporting device for creating alerts, a routing device to ensure interested parties receive the proper alerts, and a memory to store information for associating parties with the alerts. Information is gathered to create an alert used to notify interested parties of instances of component failures. The alerts are routed to parties known to have an interest in the failure of the component. The system and method may provide information that allows for better planning and design of parts, greater availability to ensure a sufficient inventory of parts, more accurate diagnosis of issues, and more effective preventative maintenance. | 12-23-2010 |
20100321176 | DISPLAY DEVICE FOR A VEHICLE FOR DISPLAYING INFORMATION RELATING TO THE OPERATION OF THE VEHICLE AND METHOD FOR DISPLAYING THIS INFORMATION - A display device for a vehicle for the display of information relating to the operation of the vehicle includes a display, at least one round instrument which is readable to a viewer in the area of the display, and a control device which controls the reading on the display and of the round instrument. The display device can be controlled by the control device such that the display device has a first display mode in which the at least one round instrument is displayed to the viewer and the display has a display area within the round instrument and a display area outside the round instrument, and the display device has a second display mode in which the at least one round instrument is not displayed to the viewer, the information which can be displayed by the round instrument is represented by a digital reading of the display, and the information displayed by the display in the first display mode within the round instrument is displayed in another display area of the display. | 12-23-2010 |
20100328057 | Method and Apparatus for Electric Powered Vehicle Recharging Safety - An apparatus comprising a charging pin in a recharging inlet of an electric powered vehicle (EPV) recharging inlet, a ground pin in the recharging inlet and substantially parallel to the charging pin, a safety pin in the recharging inlet and substantially parallel to the charging pin and the ground pin, an electric power source coupled to the safety pin, and a control circuit coupled to the electric power source and the safety pin, wherein the length of the safety pin extended in the recharging inlet is substantially shorter than the length of the ground pin and longer than the length of the charging pin. | 12-30-2010 |
20110001616 | HAPTIC ALERT WAVEFORM GENERATION METHOD AND SYSTEM - Haptic alert waveform generation method and system for use with haptic actuators that impart haptic sensations according to a waveform of an input signal used to control the haptic actuator. The shape and/or amplitude of the waveform may be controlled according to information collected from various vehicle systems, allowing virtually any type of waveform to generate and used to impart virtually any type of haptic sensations. | 01-06-2011 |
20110006889 | TRANSMISSIONS FOR VEHICLES - A motor vehicle transmission with at least one sensor ( | 01-13-2011 |
20110018701 | Traffic light passing support system, in-vehicle apparatus for the same, and method for the same - An in-vehicle arithmetic unit calculates a required time, which is needed for a vehicle to arrive at a traffic light when the vehicle maintains a present speed, according to a speed of the vehicle, a present position of the vehicle, and information on the traffic light. An in-vehicle determination unit determines whether the vehicle can pass the traffic light by maintaining the present speed, according to the required time and the traffic light information. An in-vehicle generating unit generates a request signal to request the traffic light to light a passing permission color such as a blue light after the required time elapses, in response to a determination that the vehicle cannot pass the traffic light. An in-vehicle transmission unit transmits the request signal to the traffic light. A control unit of the traffic light controls the signal light according to the transmitted request signal. | 01-27-2011 |
20110025484 | FORWARD WARNING SYSTEM FOR MOTOR VEHICLES - A new forward warning system includes one or more light sources (such as lasers) mounted on a vehicle and coupled to one or more of the vehicle's instruments, which control its motion. The vehicle's instrumentation is used to estimate the required stopping distance of the vehicle on which the light source is mounted. When the light source is moved quickly, it “draws” an image on the road surface. The image created on the road surface by the light is based on the vehicle's instrumentation and indicates to other motorists where a danger zone exists in front of the vehicle, just as brake lights warn motorists behind the vehicle that it is slowing or stopped. | 02-03-2011 |
20110025485 | Heat Dissipation System for Headlight - A heat dissipation system for a headlight and a headlight cooling method thereof, may include the headlight, a fan motor rotating a cooling fan to circulate air around the headlight while the headlight is operating, a driver integrated circuit monitoring an operation of the fan motor while the headlight is operating, wherein the driver integrated circuit generates a breakdown signal if the fan motor stops while the headlight is operating, a warning light device mounted on an instrument cluster of a vehicle, wherein the warning light device notifies a driver of whether the fan motor is broken down or not, and an electronic control unit operating the warning light device by receiving the breakdown signal from the driver integrated circuit. | 02-03-2011 |
20110025486 | Driver Alarm for Preventing Children from being Left in Car - A driver alarm for preventing children from being left in a car comprises a power device, a voltage measuring device, an inputting device, a prompting device and a controlling device. The power apparatus has a plug, which can be inserted into a cigarette-lighter socket in the car to become a power source for the driver alarm. The voltage measuring device is used to measure voltage of the cigarette-lighter in the car, the voltage rises when the car is started up and the voltage declines when the engine is turned off. The voltage measuring device reports to the controlling device about voltage rising or voltage declining. The inputting device is designed for a driver to report to the controlling device about whether children are in the cars or not. The promoting device is used to warn driver that there are children inside of the car when the car are started up or when the engines are turned off. Based on information provided by the voltage measuring device and the inputting device, the controlling device follows designed program to control the prompting device to warn the drivers that there are children inside of the cars when starting up car and when turning off engines. | 02-03-2011 |
20110037581 | User Definable Vehicle System Sounds - A method of vehicle system sound playback includes uploading a user-selected sound to be associated with a vehicle system to a persistent memory within a vehicle. The method includes associating the sound with the vehicle system based on a pre-selection made by the user. Further, the method includes detecting the activation of the vehicle system and playing the sound associated with the vehicle system through a vehicle audio system. | 02-17-2011 |
20110037582 | System And Method For Indicating A Vehicle Driving Mode - A display system for a vehicle is provided. The display system includes an information display that changes color based upon an operating state of a vehicle. The information display includes display lighting that illuminates at least a portion of the display in a color associated with the vehicle's current operating state to indicate the operating state to a driver. | 02-17-2011 |
20110043345 | DASHBOARD INDICATOR MODULE FORMED BY A MOTOR AND ELECTRICAL CONNECTION MEANS - The present invention relates to a dashboard indicator module comprising, in a casing, a rotary motor, an output shaft, mechanical reduction means associated with the motor, at least one electrical supply coil, electrical connection tabs linked to the coils leaving said casing and electrical contact elements, characterised in that said electrical contact elements can be fitted on the connection tabs in order to produce solderless connectors on the printed circuit or even removed from the connection tabs in order to allow the connection tabs of the motor to be soldered directly to the printed circuit. | 02-24-2011 |
20110043346 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR OUTPUTTING INFORMATION TO THE DRIVER OF A VEHICLE - In a method for outputting information to the driver of a vehicle, the degree of deviation of a current operating point or value of an operating parameter of a drive unit and/or of a drive train of the vehicle from a predetermined range and/or a preferred range for entry to a coasting phase is indicated to the driver. | 02-24-2011 |
20110043347 | CONTROL METHOD FOR SWITCHING BETWEEN SCALES IN VEHICULAR INSTRUMENT, AND VEHICULAR INSTRUMENT - A purpose of the invention is to provide a control method for switching between scales in the vehicular instrument that can prevent erroneous recognition and perform highly safety displaying. When a vehicle information display of a scale A is changed to a vehicle information display of a scale B, emission of light for displaying a scale associated with the vehicle information display of the scale A is temporarily stopped, and after that, emission of light for displaying a scale associated with the vehicle information display of the scale B is started. | 02-24-2011 |
20110080278 | System And Method For Customizing An Information Display Within A Vehicle - A display system having an information display configured to display at least one digital indicator. The display system may be configured to receive one or more customization settings indicative of a type, quantity, and placement of at least one digital indicator. A controller may transmit the customization settings to the information display so that at least one digital indicator is shown using the customization settings. | 04-07-2011 |
20110084824 | IDENTIFICATION ASSESSMENT AND RESPONSE TO ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS WHILE IN AN AUTOMOBILE - A method is disclosed for estimating the exposure of vehicle occupants to environmental conditions capable of inducing a least discomfort. The occupants are alerted to their proximity to a zone where environmentally-challenging conditions exist and, in a first embodiment, the details of the environmental condition and the estimated duration of any exposure is communicated to the occupants; in a second embodiment a suggested course of action by which the occupants may mitigate the effect of the environmental occurrence is communicated; and in a third embodiment the proposed course of action is automatically executed subject to override by the occupants. | 04-14-2011 |
20110084825 | System and method for monitoring and communicating the actions of riders of group transportation - In accordance with one embodiment, a system and method for monitoring and communicating the actions of riders of a group transportation vehicle includes an identifying device that is uniquely associated with and uniquely identifies one rider and a device, such as a reader, that is part of the vehicle and reads information stored on the identifying device. The vehicle includes a controller/wireless communication module that communicates wirelessly with remote devices, such as hand-held units, like cell phone and PDAs and personal computers, etc. The controller communicates with a GPS module and therefore the system keeps track of passengers as they enter and exit the vehicle as a means to ensure that all passengers have exited the vehicle at the end of the route before the vehicle is stored for the night, etc. In addition, the system provides an effective alert system that allows a third party, such as a parent, to receive communication, such as a message, that the child or adult of interest the passenger) has left the point of origin and an estimated time of arrival for the passenger at the specific drop off location. | 04-14-2011 |
20110090074 | Vehicular meter unit and display device - In a first display mode, a common image function component is displayed to occupy at least a part of a display region of a second specific image function component. In a second display mode, the common image function component is continuously displayed outside the second specific image function component to avoid the overlap therebetween (i.e., such that an exclusive positional relationship is made therebetween). When the display mode is switched, a final transition of the display mode to a display state in the second display mode is made while or after a moving image showing a transition process, in which the common image function component is moved from a display position in the first display mode to a display position in the second display mode, is displayed as a mode transition animation. | 04-21-2011 |
20110109448 | Method and System for Identifying Wet Pavement Using Tire Noise - A wet road surface detection system is provided for a vehicle driving on a road. The wet road surface detection system includes a sound sensing device coupled to the vehicle for capturing noise of the vehicle tires as the vehicle drives on a road surface. A processor processes sounds captured by the audible sensing device. The processor quantifies a variable sound level of the captured noise between a first frequency and a second frequency. The processor determines whether each quantified sound level between the first frequency and the second frequency is above a predetermined sound level threshold below the sound level at the first frequency. The processor determines that the vehicle is driving on a wet road surface in response to each quantified sound level between the first frequency and the second frequency being above a predetermined sound level threshold below the sound level at the first frequency. | 05-12-2011 |
20110115616 | VEHICLE COUNTDOWN TIMER AND USER INTERFACE - Aspects of the present invention are directed at allowing a vehicle to idle for a predetermined amount of time before shutdown. In accordance with one embodiment, a method is provided that accepts input from the vehicle operator to initiate a countdown to vehicle shutdown. When the input is received, a countdown is initiated that is regularly updated to reflect the passage of time. During the countdown, a vehicle ignition bus is maintained in an active state and a countdown value that reflects the time remaining before shutdown is presented on a graphical display. Then, in response to expiration of the countdown, the method allows the vehicle ignition bus to transition into an inactive state. | 05-19-2011 |
20110121958 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR GENERATING A USER RECOGNITION SIGNAL - In a device and a method to produce a user recognition signal upon an actuation by a user in a vehicle using a control unit linked with a transmitter and receiver which are disposed relative to one another to set up a user-specific high frequency transmission path therebetween upon actuation by the the user, at least one HF signal is provided and transferred through the body of the user, the HF transfer is evaluated to determine the user-specific transmission path to identify the user, and a user recognition signal is produced that identifies the user, wherein using at least one detection unit an action of the user is detected or an action presence is monitored, and in the detection of the action an action signal is produced, and the transmitter only provides the one HF transmission signal after or upon the existence of an action signal. | 05-26-2011 |
20110121959 | INSTRUMENT DRIVER - An instrument driver is provided in which a radical new representation can be used in presentation operation to improve marketability and design. The instrument driver includes an instrument | 05-26-2011 |
20110140873 | NAVIGATION SYSTEM FOR A COMPLEX, MENU-CONTROLLED, MULTIFUNCTIONAL VEHICLE SYSTEM - A system and method for a navigation system for a complex menu-controlled multifunctional vehicle control system. The system has a navigation unit and a man-machine interface which are arranged separately at different locations in the vehicle. Between the two units there is a communication link which is of bidirectional design. | 06-16-2011 |
20110140874 | DRIVING DIAGNOSIS INFORMATION PROVIDING APPARATUS AND SYSTEM - A driving diagnosis information providing apparatus for a vehicle is disclosed. The driving diagnosis information providing apparatus acquires vehicle information indicative of a vehicle state, and makes a diagnosis of a driving state of the vehicle based on the vehicle information. The driving diagnosis information providing apparatus acquires, as useful information, one of announce information and helpful information. The announce information includes information to be reported to a driver of the vehicle. The helpful information includes information helpful for driving. The driving diagnosis information providing apparatus notifies the driver of diagnosis information indicative of a result of the diagnosis, and notifies the useful information in place of the diagnosis information under a predetermined condition. | 06-16-2011 |
20110148613 | DEVICE AND METHOD FOR APPROVING AUTOMATIC GUIDANCE OF A VEHICLE - A device for approving automatic guidance of a vehicle, having an interface to a monitoring apparatus for at least partially monitoring a vehicle driver located in the vehicle, having an interface to an apparatus for automatically guiding the vehicle and for ascertaining a travel direction of the vehicle when automatic guidance is to be performed, and having an analysis unit for comparing a field of vision of the driver, which is determined from the monitoring of the driver, to the travel direction of the vehicle during the automatic guidance, automatic guidance only being approved if the travel direction of the vehicle during the automatic guidance is in the field of vision of the driver. | 06-23-2011 |
20110156892 | ON-BOARD EQUIPMENT AND CONTROL METHOD THEREOF - An on-board equipment | 06-30-2011 |
20110169623 | PASSIVE CONTROL OF VEHICLE INTERIOR FEATURES BASED UPON OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION - The present invention includes a method of monitoring and controlling interior functions of a vehicle, for example, a memory seat position, a vehicle pedal position, a steering column position, a vehicle interior temperature, and/or whether the vehicle is occupied or unoccupied at certain times and under certain conditions. The interior functions are controlled by passively monitoring a characteristic of an occupant, determining an identity of the occupant based on the monitored characteristic, and regulating the interior function based upon the identity of the occupant. The monitored characteristic, for example, may be representative of a weight classification or biomass associated with the occupant, or a signal or input generated based upon a user identification device, for example, a key fob or other personal electronic device carried by the occupant. | 07-14-2011 |
20110187518 | STEERING WHEEL HUMAN/MACHINE INTERFACE SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system and methods for communicating to a motor vehicle driver a desired direction to turn a steering wheel. The desired direction may be determined by, for example, a turn-by-turn navigation system, a lane-keeping aid system, and/or a forward collision warning system. A plurality of lights disposed on the steering wheel in a circumferentially extending array are illuminated in a pattern, the pattern comprises illuminating at least some of the plurality of lights in a repeating sequence beginning at a first position of the array away from the desired direction and progressing toward a second position of the array adjacent the desired direction. The pattern comprises a sequential illumination of the lights to communicate a direction of control action, a frequency of illumination to communicate a desired timing of the control action, and a color of illumination to communicate a positive or negative aspect. | 08-04-2011 |
20110187519 | MOTOR VEHICLE DOOR LOCK HAVING A CIRCUIT ARRANGEMENT - The invention relates to a motor vehicle door lock, comprising a circuit arrangement having at least one sensor ( | 08-04-2011 |
20110187520 | VEHICLE AND METHOD FOR ADVISING DRIVER OF SAME - A method for advising a driver of a vehicle may include measuring a plurality of parameters representing the vehicle's current handling condition and the vehicle's limit handling condition, determining a margin between the vehicle's current handling condition and limit handling condition, and initiating an alert for the driver before the vehicle achieves the limit handling condition if the margin exceeds a predetermined threshold. | 08-04-2011 |
20110193694 | Hidden Offset Pointer Over Reconfigurable Display - An operator configurable vehicle instrument panel with the ability to provide both analog and digital style outputs, and more particularly to an instrument panel configured to provide a digital style display in a first state and an analog state display in a second state using a physical pointer that was not visible in the first state. | 08-11-2011 |
20110193695 | In-vehicle emergency report apparatus - When determining a collision possibility of a vehicle while an emergency report is not being executed, an in-vehicle emergency report apparatus secures a wireless communications resource by one of the following: (i) Rejecting a connection request for connecting a wireless communications link from a navigation system to a wireless communications device in respect of another use other than an emergency report; (ii) Disconnecting the wireless communications link connected by the wireless communications device according to a connection request from the navigation system in respect of another use other than an emergency report; (iii) Notifying the navigation system of prohibition of connecting the wireless communications link by the wireless communications device in another use other than an emergency report; and (iv) Restricting a connection band of the wireless communications link in the wireless communications device in respect of another use other than an emergency report from the navigation system. | 08-11-2011 |
20110193696 | Method for monitoring the load of vehicle tires - The invention relates to a method for monitoring the load of vehicle tires which are each contacting a pavement with a circumferential section during travel, by means of monitoring devices ( | 08-11-2011 |
20110199201 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SIGNALING AN AQUAPLANING CONDITION OF A TYRE FITTED ON A VEHICLE (AS AMENDED) - A method of signalling an aquaplaning condition of a tyre, the latter rolling on a rolling surface, a footprint area being defined between the tyre and the rolling surface, a layer of water being interposed between the tyre and the rolling surface, includes: detecting a first signal representative of a deformation of the tyre due to rolling of the tyre on the rolling surface, the first signal including at least one portion representative of the interaction between the tyre and the layer of water; processing the first signal so as to determine a parameter representative of an aquaplaning condition of the tyre as a function of the first signal; and generating a notification signal as a function of the at least one parameter. A system for signalling an aquaplaning condition of a tyre. | 08-18-2011 |
20110210836 | Method for Selective Catalytic Reduction of Nitrogen Oxides in Exhaust Gas of Internal-Combustion Engines - A method is provided for the selective catalytic reduction of nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gas of internal-combustion engines in motor vehicles, reducing agent being fed into the exhaust gas of the internal-combustion engine from a reducing agent tank internal to the vehicle. An electronic control device, by way of a signal of a sensor in the reducing agent tank, detects whether the reducing agent is in a frozen state. The electronic control device applies heating current to a PTC heating element in the reducing agent tank if the reducing agent is in a frozen state, calculates the resistance of the PTC heating element from the onboard voltage of the motor vehicle and the heating current, and compares the resistance with a first defined resistance threshold and/or with a first defined gradient threshold of the increase in resistance. The amount of reducing agent fed into the exhaust gas from the reducing agent tank is reduced if the first resistance threshold and/or the first gradient threshold is exceeded. | 09-01-2011 |
20110210837 | WARNING DEVICE FOR AUTOMOBILE STARTER REPLACEMENT - Disclosed is a warning device for automobile starter replacement which warns a driver to replace a starter in advance for a certain period before each brush of an automobile starter is worn down to its wear limit. Among a conducting sensor having a conductor surrounded with an insulator, a push switch in which an elastic body is housed and which is operated by contact between a case and a movable member, and a contact part that is operated by contact depending on an amount of wear of each brush, one is installed on the automobile starter so that the conducting sensor, the push switch, or the contact part is turned on to operate a warning unit connected thereto before the brush reaches its wear limit, thereby making it possible to warn a driver to replace the starter in advance before the starter becomes inoperable due to the wear of the brush. | 09-01-2011 |
20110215917 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATING A SIGNAL TO EMIT A VISUAL DISPLAY AT DIFFERENT FRAME RATES - A receiver system integrated with a vehicle, transmitter system, and methods thereof are provided. The receiver system includes an antenna configured to receive the signal, and a receiver device in communication with the antenna, the receiver device is configured to process the received signal, wherein the receiver device is further configured to determine if the vehicle is in one of a first state and a second state. The receiver system further includes a display in communication with the receiver device, wherein the display is configured to emit a visual display as a function of the received signal, and the display emits the visual display at a first frame rate when the receiver device determines that the vehicle is in the first state, and the display emits the visual display at a second frame rate when the receiver device determines that the vehicle is in the second state. | 09-08-2011 |
20110215918 | WARNING DEVICE FOR AUTOMOBILE ALTERNATOR REPLACEMENT - Provided is a warning device for automobile alternator replacement which warns a driver of the replacement timing of an automobile alternator in advance. A conducting sensor that surrounds a conductor with an insulator is embedded into a brush so that the conducting sensor can be electrically conducted before the brush reaches its wear limit. A push switch is installed between the brush and a brush holder so that the push switch can be turned on before the brush reaches its wear limit. The conducting sensor or the push switch is connected to a warning unit so that the warning unit can be operated when the conducting sensor is electrically conducted or when the push switch is turned on. Thereby, the warning device can warn the driver to replace the alternator before the alternator becomes inoperable due to the wear of the brush. | 09-08-2011 |
20110221585 | DRIVING SUPPORT DEVICE FOR VEHICLE - A driving support device includes: a position detector; a traveling direction detector; a map data memory; a map matching element for matching a current position of a vehicle on a road of map data; a traveling segment estimation element for estimating a current segment of the vehicle in the parking place road when a matched road is the parking place road; a main road search element for determining whether a segment of a main road of an express way is disposed in a predetermined search distance from an estimated current segment; and a reverse run determination element for determining whether the vehicle travels reversely when the main road search element determines that the segment of the main road is disposed in the predetermined search distance from the estimated current segment. | 09-15-2011 |
20110227714 | CONTROL DEVICE AND CONTROL METHOD FOR VEHICLE - If a condition about the state of a vehicle is satisfied, if charging connectors are being connected, and if a parking position has been released, an ECU performs a program including the steps of performing brake pressure increase control and performing notification control. | 09-22-2011 |
20110234390 | Driver Assistance System and Method for Supporting the Driver of a Vehicle in Maintaining a Traffic Lane Limited by Traffic Lane Markings - In a method and apparatus for assisting the driver of a vehicle in maintaining a traffic lane limited by traffic lane markings, the traffic lane markings and the position of the vehicle in the traffic lane are detected. Upon an actual or impending change of traffic lanes a lane change warning is output to the driver of the vehicle in a first step, and a course correcting actuating intervention counteracting the lane change is carried out in a second step. The actuating intervention is carried out only if the change of traffic lanes is impermissible due to the type of traffic lane marking to be crossed during the traffic lane change, or if the lane change is not possible without danger due to collision-endangering objects present on the side of the traffic lane. | 09-29-2011 |
20110234391 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR WEAR DIAGNOSIS OF A MOTOR VEHICLE - In a method and a device for wear diagnosis of a motor vehicle, driving events and driving conditions occurring during driving operation are detected, the detected driving events and driving conditions are assigned in each case a wear index value using a table which is stored in a memory of the motor vehicle and which adds up the wear index values assigned to the detected driving events and driving conditions in order to form a total wear index value, and the determined total wear index value is compared with a reference total wear index value derived from a stored characteristic curve. | 09-29-2011 |
20110241859 | DISPLAY APPARATUS - A display apparatus includes a display plane and a control unit. The display plane configured to display a first display portion that shows a locomotion region in the first locomotion mode in a display region based on the output request and a future locomotion distance of the vehicle and a second display portion that shows a locomotion region in the second locomotion mode next to the first display portion in the display region. The control unit configured to control an image displayed in the display plane. The control unit changes a border between the first display portion and the second display portion based on the future locomotion distance in accordance with an estimation result of displacement of a switching point between the first locomotion mode and the second locomotion mode. | 10-06-2011 |
20110241860 | OCCUPANT SENSING SYSTEM - An occupant sensing system for a vehicle includes a pressure sensitive material installed in one or more pressure sensing zones in or around at least one vehicle seat. The pressure sensitive material of each zone is configured to provide an electrical signal to a controller when pressure is applied. The controller determines at least one of occupant presence, position, and classification based on the electrical signal. The pressure sensitive material has at least one of a variable resistance and a variable capacitance based on the amount or type of pressure that is applied to the material. The at least one of a variable resistance and a variable capacitance changes characteristics of the electrical signal. | 10-06-2011 |
20110248843 | TRAFFIC INFORMATION WARNING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - A driver alert apparatus and related systems. The driver alert apparatus includes a controller and a wireless receiver connected to the controller and configured to receive data from a transmitter, The driver alert apparatus includes an at least partially transparent packaging containing the controller and receiver. The driver alert apparatus includes a speaker and visual indicator connected to be controlled by the controller, such that the speaker and visual indicator are controllably activated by the controller based on the received data. | 10-13-2011 |
20110248844 | METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A LOCKING SYSTEM OF A MOTOR VEHICLE AND A MOTOR VEHICLE - The invention relates to a method for controlling a locking system of a motor vehicle wherein, as the states of the locking system, there is an unlocked state, a locked state from which it is possible to switch to the unlocked state via at least a first operating element inside the vehicle, and a security state in which by simply activating a first operating element it is not possible to switch to the unlocked state. The aim of the invention is to propose a method that allows a person inside the motor vehicle to still leave the motor vehicle despite user activation of the security state without substantially easing the opening of the motor vehicle from the outside by an unauthorized third party. Four concepts are proposed that can all be implemented in combination to great benefit. They enable a person still inside the vehicle to leave the motor vehicle upon activation of the security state. | 10-13-2011 |
20110260848 | AUTOMOTIVE VEHICLE EARLY OPEN DOOR WARNING SYSTEM - The invention relates to an automotive vehicle early open door warning system, including a first light device arranged in a first external area of a side of the vehicle, for emitting a warning light signal, prior to the opening of a door, a second light device arranged in a second area of the side of the vehicle spaced from the first area for emitting a warning light signal, and an electronic controller circuit in connection with the light devices, for controlling the first light device so that it emits the warning light signal prior to the opening of the door and the second light device so that it emits the warning light signal prior to or during the opening of the door. | 10-27-2011 |
20110279254 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CARRYING OUT AN AVOIDANCE MANEUVER - Disclosed herein is a method and device for carrying out an avoidance maneuver of a motor vehicle. An object in the surroundings of the motor vehicle which is on a collision course is detected. A warning is output to the vehicle driver, to the effect that the motor vehicle is on a collision course, and the steering activity of the vehicle driver is detected. An externally actuable rear-wheel steering device is subsequently switched such that the front wheels and the rear wheels of the motor vehicle are controlled in the same direction. Also, the vehicle movement dynamics effects of the actuation of the externally actuable rear-wheel steering device in the same direction are compensated. A further warning is output to the vehicle driver in order to cause the vehicle driver to perform a greater steering activity necessary as a result of the actuation of the externally actuable rear-wheel steering device. | 11-17-2011 |
20110285523 | REAR UNDER VIEW MIRROR SYSTEM FOR VEHICLES - The present invention provides a rear under view mirror system for vehicles. The rear under view mirror system includes a rear under view mirror unit having a semitransparent glass and a smart glass. When a vehicle moves forwards, the rear under view mirror unit does not protrude rearwards relative to a vehicle body and overlaps a rear windshield glass, thus providing a good appearance and preventing resistance to airflow, without hindering a driver from seeing the area behind the vehicle through the rear windshield glass. The rear under view mirror unit has a large area corresponding to that of the rear windshield glass, thus providing a sufficient view of the low area to the rear of the vehicle. | 11-24-2011 |
20110298605 | ALARM LIGHT STRUCTURE - An alarm light includes at least one light emission element, a control unit, and a central lock unit. The light emission element is mounted to a vehicle. The control unit is electrically connected to the light emission unit to control the light emission unit to selectively give off light. When the central lock unit is unlocked, the control unit controls the light emission element to give off light and when the central lock unit is locked, the control unit controls the light emission element to stop lighting. As such, the alarm light may signal vehicles and pedestrians coming from the rear side in advance that a vehicle door is going to be opened. | 12-08-2011 |
20110304446 | SYSTEM FOR PREVENTING HANDHELD DEVICE USE WHILE OPERATING A VEHICLE - Techniques for preventing a driver of a moving vehicle from using a handheld device while driving. An example system of the invention includes a plurality of biometric sensors configured to receive biometric data from the driver and a user of the handheld device. Contemporaneously with operation of the vehicle and the handheld device, the biometric data is analyzed in order to determine a match between the identity of the vehicle driver and the user of the handheld device. A controller is configured to selectively interrupt operation of the vehicle or handheld device upon detecting the match. | 12-15-2011 |
20110304447 | DRIVE RECORDER - The drive recorder disclosed in the present specification comprises a data collection portion for collecting image data and other driving condition data of a vehicle; and a control portion for designating a data compression system, a file format, and a hierarchy of a folder in an output destination when the image data is output to removable media according to a request made by a user. | 12-15-2011 |
20110304448 | ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT AND INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - A VIN storage electronic control unit stores a vehicle identification number (VIN). A standby RAM that holds data constantly with an electric power supplied by a battery stores failure diagnosis related information and a rewriting history flag. When the VIN storage electronic control unit rewrites the VIN upon receiving a request signal for rewriting the VIN, the standby RAM updates the rewriting history flag so as to switch into a set status indicating the rewriting is made. When receiving a request signal for eliminating the failure diagnosis related information, the failure diagnosis related information stored in the standby RAM is reset and the rewriting history flag is switched into a reset status. In addition, while the rewriting history flag is in the set status, a malfunction indicator lamp is turned on. | 12-15-2011 |
20110309924 | VEHICLE DISPLAY - A method of displaying information to a person viewing a configurable display in a vehicle. The method displays one of a plurality of page formats at a time. Each page format includes one or more images, including a first image in a distinct region of the display. The first image is positioned in an upper region of the display when information conveyed by the first image originates from outside the vehicle, and the first image is positioned in a lower region of the display when information conveyed by the first image originates from within the vehicle. The arrangement of images and the organization of the page formats are configured to convey a mental model of the environment about the vehicle, and displaying multiple pages arranged in a hierarchical order to further convey a mental model of how information is arranged on the various pages is provided. | 12-22-2011 |
20110309925 | DISPLAY DEVICE FOR VEHICLE - A display device for a vehicle includes first and second display units that respectively display vehicle information and are arranged behind a steering wheel of the vehicle, and a front face cover that covers a front face of the first display unit and a front face of the second display unit. The first display unit is arranged at a portion inside of the steering wheel in a radial direction of the steering wheel on a field of view from an eye range of a person sitting on a driving seat of the vehicle. The second display unit is arranged at a portion outside of the steering wheel in the radial direction of the steering wheel on the field of view from the eye range. The front face cover is integrally formed so as to be continuous in the radial direction of the steering wheel. | 12-22-2011 |
20120001743 | Mine Personnel Carrier Integrated Information Display - In certain embodiments, a mine personnel carrier includes an integrated information display and one or more processing units. The processing units may access life support data from devices associated with a life support subsystem of a mine personnel carrier. The life support subsystem provides breathable air to passengers of the mine personnel carrier, and the life support data indicates a remaining level of air available via at least a portion of the life support subsystem. The processing units access guidance data from guidance devices associated with a guidance subsystem of the mine personnel carrier. Each guidance device can detect entities within a detection range of the guidance device. The processing units initiate display in the integrated information display of at least a portion of the life support data and the guidance data. The integrated information display comprises a unified electronic display of the mine personnel carrier. | 01-05-2012 |
20120013455 | SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING A VIBRATION DOSAGE - A system determines a vehicle vibration dosage. The system includes a movably mounted vehicle component, a sensor for sensing movement magnitude of the vehicle component and an evaluation unit. The evaluation unit calculates the dosage magnitude reflecting the vibration dosage, on the basis of the sensed movement magnitude. The evaluation unit stores the calculated dosage magnitude in a storage unit in the form of an appropriate dosage entry. | 01-19-2012 |
20120019374 | GRAPHIC METER DISPLAY DEVICE AND METHOD - A graphic meter display device includes a tick mark information retaining section that retains information about display coordinates of respective positions of three or more typical tick marks among tick marks, in correspondence with typical numeric values assigned to the respective positions; an indicator needle coordinate calculation section that extracts two typical numeric values adjacent, above and below, to a magnitude of the input measured value according to the input measured value as a first typical numeric value and a second typical numeric value from the positions of three or more typical tick marks and that calculates, as coordinates of an indicator needle point, an intermediate position, which lies on a line segment connecting coordinates corresponding to the first typical numeric value to coordinates corresponding to the second typical numeric value and which is determined by means of the first typical numeric value, the second typical numeric value, and the measured value; and a graphic display section that renders a display pattern of the indicator needle in a vicinity of the coordinates of the indicator needle point and with reference to the coordinates of the indicator needle point. | 01-26-2012 |
20120062374 | COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS INTEROPERATING WITH INTEGRATED TERMINALAND METHOD FOR ACQUIRING INFORMATION THROUGH INTEROPERATINGCOMMUNICATION SYSTEMS - Provided is a method for providing information to a mobile object or acquiring information from a mobile object. The method for providing information to a mobile object includes providing information obtained by an information acquisition system to an interoperable communication system and providing information outputted from the communication system to the mobile object. | 03-15-2012 |
20120068839 | INTERIOR REARVIEW MIRROR ASSEMBLY WITH INTEGRATED INDICATOR SYMBOL - This invention relates to interior rearview mirror assemblies for vehicles and to interior rearview mirror assemblies without a frame or bezel having inputs corresponding to elements representing a symbol. The symbols are located behind a reflective element and not visible until activated by selection of the corresponding input or other means. | 03-22-2012 |
20120092148 | Cellular telephone detection and alarm activator for vehicular safety - Methods and devices are disclosed that generally involve deterring the use of portable electronic devices (“PEDs”) while operating a motor vehicle by triggering one or more visible or audible alerts when such use is detected. These alerts can be sufficiently embarrassing or irritating to the vehicle operator to cause them to stop using the detected PED. In addition, merely knowing that a vehicle is equipped with a system for generating these alerts can be sufficient to deter use of PEDs while operating the vehicle. Deterrence can thus be accomplished without relying on vehicle immobilization or frequency jamming. | 04-19-2012 |
20120098654 | Heavy equipment proximity sensor - A safety system for an ore processing facility using a mobile mechanisms such as dozer-type wheeled vehicles operating in proximity with an excavator providing ore to a remote milling site. Each mobile mechanism employs a transmitter transmitting a signal on a first frequency which is sensed by the excavator and placed on a display to avoid collisions between the two. The excavator also monitor for lost teeth from the scoop using another sensor/transmitter combination and warns the operator is a tooth is lost. | 04-26-2012 |
20120098655 | SMART LIGHT WITH POWER BACKUP - The disclosed inventions comprise a device that may be mechanically and electrically associated with a typical lighting fixture found in a building or home, has low power consumption, provide a typical lighting when such lighting fixture is providing power to the device and comprises a battery backup to provide an emergency lighting feature when the power is out. The device may further be removed from the lighting fixture and used as a typical flashlight. The device may further be electrically and remotely associated with devices such as cell phones and systems such as alarm systems to provide emergency services. | 04-26-2012 |
20120098656 | METHOD FOR GENERATING TURN-SIGNAL SOUND OF VEHICLE AND DEVICE USING THE SAME - There is provided a method for generating turn-signal sound of a vehicle and a device using the method which can output from a speaker the turn-signal sound close to operating sound of a mechanical relay. The method outputs a pulse signal for turn-signal sound having varying frequency and duty ratio from a PPG port of a CPU, integrates the pulse signal for turn-signal sound using an integration circuit to convert into an analog signal for turn-signal sound which is outputted to a speaker. The method also outputs a pulse signal for alarm having the constant frequency and duty ratio, integrates the pulse signal for alarm sound using an integration circuit to convert into an analog signal for alarm sound. Then the analog signals for turn-signal sound and for alarm sound are summed up and outputted to the speaker to produce simultaneously the turn-signal sound and the alarm sound. | 04-26-2012 |
20120105220 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR MONITORING A VEHICULAR PROPULSION SYSTEM BATTERY - A method and apparatus for determining coolant leakage in a vehicular propulsion system battery. An AC isolation resistance test is used to determine whether an isolation fault has occurred within the battery, but can also determine the capacitance of the circuit or system, which can further determine the coolant leakage levels of the vehicular propulsion system battery. This eliminates having an additional device to measure the coolant leakage. | 05-03-2012 |
20120105221 | REAL-TIME WARNING SYSTEM FOR VEHICLE WINDSHIELD AND PERFORMING METHOD THEREOF - A real-time warning system for a vehicle windshield and a performing method thereof are disclosed. The real-time warning system includes an image capture unit, an image processing unit, a calculation and control unit, and a robotic optical projection unit. The image capture unit continually captures images appearing in front of a vehicle. The image processing unit determines an obstacle according to the images appearing in front of the vehicle. The calculation and control unit calculates an intersection point between a straight line and the vehicle windshield, wherein the straight line connects the obstacle and a head position of a driver in the vehicle. The robotic optical projection unit which is controlled by the calculation and control unit generates a warning mark onto the vehicle windshield so that the driver can easily see the obstacle ahead. | 05-03-2012 |
20120126965 | Information presentation apparatus and system - An information presentation apparatus for a vehicle is disclosed. The apparatus includes: a stimulator device located on a steering wheel of the vehicle and configured to generate stimulation at multiple sites on the steering wheel to provide skin sensation to a driver gripping the steering wheel; a direction information acquisition device configured to acquire direction information; and a controller configured to cause, in accordance with the acquired direction information, the stimulator device to successively generate the stimulation through the plurality of sites on the steering wheel to invoke an apparent movement that appears to the driver as if the skin sensation moves in a way indicative of a direction according to the direction information. | 05-24-2012 |
20120126966 | THIN GAUGE WITH SELF-EMITTING DISPLAY FOR HIDDEN POINTER - An exemplary vehicle instrument panel includes gauges for communicating various vehicle operating parameters and conditions that include self-emitting displays. The exemplary vehicle gauge includes the display that is self-emitting. The exemplary display is a self-emitting programmable display that can be operated and programmed to electronically generate text, symbols and graphics. Moreover, all of the display area making up the gauge face can be programmed and actuated to display electronically generated images to provide desired information and data. | 05-24-2012 |
20120139716 | DRIVING ASSISTANCE APPARATUS - Disclosed is a driving assistance apparatus for assisting a driving operation by outputting a reverse sound at the time of a reversing maneuver of a vehicle. The apparatus includes an information acquisition unit for acquiring driving assistance information including a vehicle condition and a vehicle surrounding condition, a reverse sound management unit for managing reverse sounds belonging in a musical scale including the reverse sound as the tonic note thereof as musical scale reverse sounds, an output reverse sound determination unit for determining a sequence of musical scale in the form of temporal sequence corresponding to the driving assistance information, and a reverse sound output control unit configured to select from the reverse sounds managed by the reverse sound management unit and output to a speaker reverse sounds suitable for the sequence of the musical scale determined by the reverse sound determination unit. | 06-07-2012 |
20120161953 | OCCUPANT DETECTION SYSTEM - An occupant detection system including an electrostatic sensor, a determination section and a heater is disclosed. The electrostatic sensor includes an electrode arranged inside a seat of a vehicle and configured to generate a weak electric field. The electrostatic sensor outputs an output value associated with the weak electric field. The determination section supplies voltage to the electrode, and performs an occupant determination to determine an occupant on the seat based on the output value of the electrostatic sensor. The heater is inside the seat, and is arranged in parallel with or on a lower side of the electrode. Before performing the occupant determination, the determinations section determines whether or not the heater has a disconnection fault based on the output value of the electrostatic sensor. | 06-28-2012 |
20120169488 | HAPTIC PEDAL SYSTEM - An apparatus for providing haptic feedback to an operator of a vehicle is described including a pedal, torque motor, actuator and controller. The pedal is rotatable between a closed position and an open position. The torque motor applies rotational force to the pedal. The actuator is rotatably positioned between the torque motor and pedal. The controller provides haptic feedback to the operator by sending a haptic signal via the torque motor, actuator and pedal in which rotational force is applied to the pedal to rotate the pedal toward the closed position. | 07-05-2012 |
20120194332 | AUTOMOTIVE AUDIO LEVEL NOTIFIER - A system that notifies the automobile driver about excessive noise emitted out of the automobile audio system is provided. This is done to avoid a possible traffic law violation for excessive sound system noise. The system takes audio data from a microphone and calculates the decibel value based on it. The system also gets the current GPS coordinate location of the automobile and determines the state of country in which it is driven now. The current location is used by the system to determine the state legal limit of decibel value for automobile audio. If the current noise decibel level emitted from the automobile audio is greater than the state limit then the driver might be violating a state traffic law. The driver is alerted so that they can reduce the volume level. | 08-02-2012 |
20120200403 | METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR DIRECTING ATTENTION TO A SEQUENCE OF VIEWPORTS OF AN AUTOMOTIVE VEHICLE - Methods and systems are described for directing attention to a sequence of viewports of an automotive vehicle. In one aspect, attention-sequence information is received that identifies a first viewport and a second viewport that provide, to an operator of an automotive vehicle, respective views of space external to the automotive vehicle. A sequence, that includes the first viewport preceding the second viewport, is identified based on the attention-sequence information. In response to identifying the sequence, first attention information is sent to present a first attention output, via an output device, for instructing the operator to attend to the first viewport. Second attention information is sent to present a second attention output, via an output device, for instructing the operator to attend to the second viewport subsequent to attending to the first viewport. | 08-09-2012 |
20120200404 | METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAM PRODUCTS FOR ALTERING ATTENTION OF AN AUTOMOTIVE VEHICLE OPERATOR - Methods and systems are described for altering attention of an automotive vehicle operator. Interaction information is received that is based on a first interaction that includes a first operator of a first automotive vehicle. A second automotive vehicle is detected, wherein the second automotive vehicle is operated by a second operator. Based on the interaction information, attention information for identifying an attention output is determined. The attention information is sent, for presenting the attention output, by an output device, to alter a second interaction that includes the second operator. | 08-09-2012 |
20120200405 | ASSET TRACKING SYSTEM - An asset tracking system for tracking assets, for example, a vehicle, with an integrated topology that is configured minimize the complexity of the system by eliminating hardware duplication and sensing the ignition state while obviating the need to access the ignition switch circuit; the asset tracking system optionally including a loan obligation management system that is integrated with the asset recovery system which provides in-vehicle notifications of loan obligations for the asset upon which the loan obligation is based from a remote location directly to the asset. | 08-09-2012 |
20120206251 | TELL TALE OVER CLUSTER LIGHT GUIDE - A gauge provides information indicative of vehicle speed and includes a pointer that moves relative to the scale to indicate a current measured the vehicle parameter. A tell tale housing is supported above and spaced apart from the gauge face. A main circuit board supports light emitting devices such as LEDs that are turned on or off to illuminate the corresponding tell tale. A light guide is supported within the tell tale housing and directs light from the LED to the at least one tell tale spaced apart from the main circuit board and the main gauge surface. | 08-16-2012 |
20120206252 | LANE DEPARTURE WARNING SYSTEM - Devices, methods and systems are disclosed herein to describe a lane departure warning system that warns the driver that the vehicle is about to leave a current lane and enter an adjacent lane. The driver of the vehicle is identified, and a corresponding profile is accessed. The driver's pupils may be measured and compared to pupil size data stored in the accessed profile. If the difference in pupil size exceeds a certain threshold, then the vehicle may activate a passive lane departure detector that warns the driver each time the vehicle is getting too close to an adjacent lane, thus alerting the driver that the vehicle may be unintentionally drifting into the next lane. Additional driving tendencies, such as steering angles and braking force, may also be used to determine whether the driver may benefit from lane departure assistance and whether to trigger activation of the lane departure detector. | 08-16-2012 |
20120206253 | FUEL DEGRADATION DETECTOR FOR INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE - When biomass fuel reacts with oxygen for a long period of time, an amount of acid ions in a fuel tank is increased with time. However, when metallic ions are generated for some reason and the reaction proceeds to change the acid ions into metallic salts, the increase rate of the amount of the acid ions in the fuel tank becomes slow. When the metallic salt forming reaction proceeds rapidly, the amount of the acid ions may even be reduced. Therefore, in the embodiment, the change of the acid ions into the metallic salts in a fuel is detected. Unless the fuel is newly supplied by refueling, the decrease of the amount of acid ions in the fuel can be considered as a change into metallic salts. Accordingly, the generation of metallic salts can be detected by monitoring the decrease of the amount of acid ions in the fuel. Thus, clogging of a fuel supply system or the like caused by the metallic salt forming reaction can be prevented. | 08-16-2012 |
20120212333 | AUTOMOTIVE VEHICLE AND ASSET MANAGEMENT SYSTEM THEREFOR - An automotive vehicle includes one or more computers. The one or more computers are configured to, in a first mode of operation, receive and store, at a plurality of instances, inventory information about assets in a vicinity of the vehicle, and identify patterns in asset inventories based on the inventory information and a history of vehicle locations associated with the inventory information. The one or more computers are also configured to, in a second mode of operation, generate output representing at least one suggested vehicle destination based on the identified patterns and assets detected in the vicinity of the vehicle. | 08-23-2012 |
20120223827 | Passenger Car Transport - A vehicle for transporting passenger cars has an adjustable loading ramp for loading and unloading passenger cars. The loading ramp can be placed in at least two positions. One position is a travel position and is to be set when the passenger car transport is traveling. The passenger car transport also has an electronic monitoring system that includes at least one monitoring sensor operable to sense whether the loading ramp is in the travel position. The electronic monitoring system employs monitoring electronics configured to evaluate the signals of the monitoring sensor and to transmit to a display device corresponding information indicating whether or not the loading ramp is in the travel position. | 09-06-2012 |
20120235804 | MAST AND INTEGRAL DISPLAY MOUNT FOR A MATERIAL HANDLING VEHICLE - A mast and integral display mount for a material handling vehicle are shown. The mast mounts a locating apparatus such that a locating axis of the locating apparatus is coaxial with a steering axis of the steerable drive wheel of the material handling vehicle. An integral display mount may include a display unit and display screen housed in a display housing that is integral with the steering handle of the vehicle. The integral nature of the display mount allows the display unit to move with the steering handle during steering of the vehicle. | 09-20-2012 |
20120242472 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ON-BOARD VEHICLE DETECTION OF HARMFUL MATERIAL - An on-board terrorist threat detection and reporting system and method are provided for use on-board a transportation vehicle. The system includes a plurality of sensors for sensing a potential threat. The plurality of sensors are positioned on the transportation vehicle. The system also includes a database for storing threat related reference information, and a memory unit for storing sensor information corresponding to the potential threat sensed by one or more of the plurality of sensors. The system further includes a processor for analyzing the sensor information and corresponding threat related reference information. | 09-27-2012 |
20120268262 | Warning System With Heads Up Display - A warning system for a motor vehicle includes a head up display. The warning system detects a remote vehicle that presents a potential hazard to a host vehicle, determines if the remote vehicle is visible to the driver and displays an image onto a combiner of the heads up display corresponding to a current location of the remote vehicle or a future location where the remote vehicle will appear on the combiner. In some cases, the combiner is a windshield or window of the motor vehicle. | 10-25-2012 |
20120274459 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR UTILIZING SPREAD SPECTRUM TECHNIQUES FOR IN CAR APPLICATIONS - A method of operating an audio system in an automobile includes identifying a user of the audio system. An audio recording playing on the audio system is identified. An audio setting entered into the audio system by the identified user while the audio recording is being played by the audio system is sensed. The sensed audio setting is stored in memory in association with the identified user and the identified audio recording. The audio recording is retrieved from memory with the sensed audio setting being embedded in the retrieved audio recording as a watermark signal. The retrieved audio recording is played on the audio system with the embedded sensed audio setting being automatically implemented by the audio system during the playing. | 11-01-2012 |
20120286945 | METHOD OF TESTING AND MONITORING JOINT HEALTH - A method for non-destructive health monitoring of a joined component includes: supplying a first current between a first end of a first member and a first end of a second member of the joined component; measuring a first voltage between a second end of the first member and a second end of the second member, wherein the first ends of the first member and the second member are situated opposite of at least one joint from the second ends of the first member and the second member; calculating a first joint resistance of the at least one joint from the supplied first current and the measured first voltage; comparing the calculated first joint resistance to a predetermined minimum joint resistance; and comparing the calculated first joint resistance to a predetermined maximum joint resistance, wherein the predetermined maximum joint resistance is greater than the predetermined minimum joint resistance. | 11-15-2012 |
20120293315 | Methods and Apparatus for Adaptive Vehicle Response to Air Quality States - A computer-implemented method includes connecting to a remote system and requesting data relating to a quality of air level in the vicinity of a known vehicle location. The method further includes receiving data relating to the quality of air level and comparing the data to one or more predetermined threshold levels of tolerance. If the data exceeds at least one threshold level of tolerance an automatic vehicle computing system response is instructed. In this example, the method also includes activating one or more vehicle systems in response to the data exceeding the at least one threshold level of tolerance. | 11-22-2012 |
20120293316 | COLLABORATIVE VEHICLE CONTROL USING BOTH HUMAN OPERATOR AND AUTOMATED CONTROLLER INPUT - Control of a vehicle to perform a task employs first control input provided by a human operator and second control input provided by an automated controller. A relationship between the first control input and the second control input is determined. Either the first control input or the second control input is used to control the vehicle to perform the task based on the determined relationship. An indicator may be used to indicate to the operator when the control input provided by the human operator is being used to control the vehicle. | 11-22-2012 |
20120313768 | BI-DIRECTIONAL PORTABLE ELECTRONIC DEVICE FOR INTERACTION WITH VEHICLE SYSTEMS - A portable electronic device for displaying information from a vehicle having a first transceiver to a user carrying the portable electronic device includes a second transceiver. The portable electronic device uses the second transceiver to conduct bi-directional communications with the vehicle systems. The portable electronic device may be a key-fob and include a display for displaying the information from the vehicle. | 12-13-2012 |
20120319830 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF PREVENTING INADVERTENT CHECK ENGINE TELLTALE - A system for preventing the illumination of a vehicle check engine light by notifying the driver that the fuel door is not closed. The system includes an interference member, a sensor for detecting the position of a fuel door, and a processor to communicate a detectable signal to the driver. The interference member prevents the fuel door from closing if the fuel cap is not properly seated in the fuel injection port, and the sensor detects the position of the door. The sensor can communicate the position of the door to the processor which in turn can send a detectable signal to the driver that the fuel door is ajar and the fuel cap is loose. Furthermore, in vehicles equipped with power slide doors, the processor can also disable the operation of the power slide door to prevent the power slide door from colliding with the fuel door. | 12-20-2012 |
20130002415 | Vehicular telematics device with voltage sensor-predicated GPS reciever activation - A vehicle-status-evaluating device is operable to distinguishably sense between inactive-vehicle and active-vehicle states and includes a power-switch operable to selectively power-up an associated vehicular device in response to a vehicle-status-evaluating device sensed active-vehicle state. An on-board, battery-powered telematics device, a telematics system, and a telematics display and a related method are included. | 01-03-2013 |
20130002416 | Steering Wheels for Vehicle Control in Manual and Autonomous Driving - Systems and methods for switching between manual-mode steering and autonomous-mode steering, including a steering wheel assembly sending a signal to an autonomous driving electronic control unit, to engage autonomous-mode steering, in response to an autonomous interface steering wheel of the assembly having been moved from a first position to a second position. | 01-03-2013 |
20130021147 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INFORMING PASSENGERS OF A PUBLIC TRANSPORT VEHICLE OF A DOOR LOCK STATUS - There is described a system and method for informing passengers of a public transport vehicle of a door lock status, the method comprising: optically coupling a light source to an at least partially see-through modesty panel for propagating light therein, the modesty panel being positioned within the transport vehicle adjacent to a door for separating the passengers from the door; receiving a signal indicating that the door is unlocked; and illuminating at least a portion of the modesty panel using the light source, thereby informing the passengers that the door is unlocked. | 01-24-2013 |
20130033372 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF VEHICLE CONDITION ALERT - The present invention provides a system for monitoring the usage of individual vehicular seat belts. The seat belt provides a visual indication of seat belt usage using a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) to alert the compliance of proper seat belt usage. The system is capable of providing a visual indication, an audible indication, a historical timestamp for seat belt usage, a display and/or data relating to seat belt use to a communication interface. The processing module is capable of storing and outputting prior and current use of seat belt usage to any third party entities monitoring such use. | 02-07-2013 |
20130038437 | SYSTEM FOR TASK AND NOTIFICATION HANDLING IN A CONNECTED CAR - The vehicular notification and control apparatus receives user input via a multimodal control system, optionally including touch-responsive control and non-contact gestural and speech control. A processor-controlled display provides visual notifications of notifications and tasks according to a dynamically prioritized queue which takes into account environmental conditions and driving context and available driver attention. The display is filtered to present only valid notifications and tasks for the current available driver attention level. Driver attention is determined using multiple, diverse sensors integrated through a sensor fusion mechanism. | 02-14-2013 |
20130043989 | Method for Supporting the Driver of a Vehicle - A method for supporting the driver of a vehicle by means of electronic steering, in particular during a parking procedure, is disclosed. A roadway to be traversed by the vehicle is first determined and the steering adjustments to the steerable wheels of the vehicle required for traversing the roadway are determined. The roadway is then traversed by means of an automatic control. During traversing of the roadway, an anticipated power requirement is estimated for each of the steering adjustments and the temperature of an actuator by means of which the respective steering adjustments are performed is measured. The automatic control of the vehicle is cancelled and control is transferred to the driver if a specified maximum allowable temperature for the actuator can be exceeded due to the anticipated required power. A device for carrying out the method is also disclosed. | 02-21-2013 |
20130049941 | ADAPTIVE CONTROL SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TRANSMISSION SOLENOIDS - A target pressure module determines a target pressure for controlling a solenoid of a transmission. An error module determines a pressure error based on a difference between the target pressure and a pressure measured using a pressure sensor. A pressure offset module determines a pressure offset using the target pressure and a mapping of pressure offsets indexed by target pressure. An offset learning module selectively determines a learned pressure offset and selectively updates the mapping based on the learned pressure offset. A pressure command module selectively generates a commanded pressure based on the target pressure, the pressure offset, and the pressure error. A solenoid control module controls actuation of the solenoid based on the commanded pressure. | 02-28-2013 |
20130049942 | METHOD FOR CONTROLLING ACCELERATOR PEDAL OF HYBRID VEHICLE - A method for controlling an accelerator pedal of a hybrid vehicle includes determining a switching state of a driving mode of the hybrid vehicle, and applying a different manipulation feeling to the accelerator pedal, when it is determined that the driving mode was switched. When the driving state of the hybrid vehicle is switched from an electric motor to an engine or from the engine to the electric motor, a driver may easily recognize the switching of the driving state. | 02-28-2013 |
20130076498 | DISPLAY DEVICE - A display device for a motor vehicle is proposed, wherein the display device has a first display area and a second display area, wherein the first display area is provided by way of a first display in the central area of a dial, wherein the second display area is designed so as to display a display information in an electroless manner. | 03-28-2013 |
20130076499 | VEHICLE OPERATION INPUT APPARATUS AND CONTROL METHOD FOR VEHICLE OPERATION INPUT APPARATUS - A vehicle operation input apparatus includes: a display having a screen; and a control unit configured to determine whether or not a hand of a driver has been removed from a steering wheel, and after determining that the hand of the driver has been removed from the steering wheel in a situation where an operation menu is not displayed on the screen, control the display such that the operation menu is displayed on the screen. | 03-28-2013 |
20130088344 | ALARM FOR BABY STROLLERS - The present invention relates to a device, system, kit or apparatus for use with a child or stroller for detecting the removal of the child or baby form the stroller. The present invention may have a fixed plate secured to the frame of the stroller and a flexible plate in close association with a seat of the stroller. The fixed plate and the flexible plate are attachment to the stroller such that they are substantially parallel to each other. A sensor mounted on the fixed plate is engaged directly or indirectly by bending of the flexible plate due to the weight of the child or baby in the seat of the stroller. When the weight of the baby or child is removed from the seat, the flexible plate disengages the sensor due to the flexible plate being biased to maintain its original shape and an alarm is activated. | 04-11-2013 |
20130088345 | COMMUNICATING STATUSES OF VEHICLES - In some implementations, a method for wirelessly communicating with the processor of a vehicle includes receiving, from a status module in a vehicle, a value for a dynamic attribute of the vehicle. The value for the dynamic attribute is wirelessly transmitted, from the vehicle, to a Radio Frequency (RF) reader. | 04-11-2013 |
20130088346 | WHEEL LOSS DETECTION - A device and method for detecting wheel loss from a vehicle when the vehicle is in motion. The device ( | 04-11-2013 |
20130093584 | Integrated Rear Camera Display - A integrated rear camera display system for a vehicle comprises a display screen mounted to a housing and at least one device used by another system for the vehicle. The housing at least partially contains the at least one device. The housing is configured for mounting to a windshield for the vehicle such that the display screen is viewable by a driver of the vehicle. The display screen shows an image from a rear-facing camera to provide the driver of the vehicle with an unobstructed rear view of the vehicle. | 04-18-2013 |
20130099911 | Highway Merge Assistant and Control - A vehicle merge control system includes a host communication system in a host vehicle for exchanging vehicle position and kinematics data with a remote communication system in at least one remote vehicle. A vehicle host processor determines respective positions and paths of travel of the at least one remote vehicle and the host vehicle. The host processor determines a time to intersect based on the positions and predicted paths of travel between the host vehicle and remote vehicle during a merging maneuver. A host vehicle is configured to transmit a host vehicle intention message from the host communication system to the remote communication system for negotiating a merging position between the host vehicle and the at least one remote vehicle. The host vehicle executes the merging maneuver using the negotiated merging position. | 04-25-2013 |
20130099912 | VEHICULAR DISPLAY UNIT - A vehicular display unit includes: a main display disposed in a forward position of a driver and adapted to display vehicle information; an external display, other than the main display, disposed in the forward position of the driver, adapted to display vehicle information and having a screen functioning as an operation portion; and a display mover mechanism including a gear belt disposed on a circumferential track and configured to move the external display in a vehicle forward-rearward direction by a circumferential movement of the gear belt, and a gear mechanism configured to transmit a driving force of a driving source to the gear belt. | 04-25-2013 |
20130099913 | Modular Central Instrument - In the case of a central instrument in the center console of a motor vehicle having a circular display, on which a plurality of vehicle-relevant information is shown, the display has an at least approximately circular edge which contains several illuminants which are freely programmable in their brightness, are variably controlled during an operating phase of the motor vehicle and generate a luminous shape that varies with respect to time. The luminous shape supplies information on the condition and/or the function of the motor vehicle and/or of a motor vehicle component. | 04-25-2013 |
20130106595 | VEHICLE REVERSE DETECTION METHOD AND SYSTEM VIA VIDEO ACQUISITION AND PROCESSING | 05-02-2013 |
20130113614 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR VEHICLE DOOR CLEARANCE ZONE PROJECTION - A system and associated method for detecting an obstacle in a door clearance zone and warning vehicle occupants about the obstacle. The system includes sensors for generating signals for detecting an obstacle, and a controller for processing the signals. The controller provides an indication that an obstacle has been detected in a door clearance zone, either by feeding data to a visual display that includes an image of the vehicle and to door clearance zone, or by an audible signal. The method includes generating sensor signals and processing those signals to detect an obstacle within a door clearance zone. A visual display may be provided, in which case the method further includes projecting an image of the vehicle, one or more door clearance zones, and any detected obstacle. Further, a warning may be actuated to indicate detection of an obstacle, as an audible signal or a visual indication. | 05-09-2013 |
20130127609 | GRAPHIC DISPLAY APPARATUS - A graphic display apparatus within an automotive vehicle wherein the display apparatus includes at least two display units operable to display graphics and/or video, a wire connector connecting the at least two display units together, and a control system connected to the wire connector wherein the control system is operable to play video or graphics on the at least two display units. The display units are in communication with one another providing for a coordinated or synchronized display of graphics. If, by way of example, a firework explodes on the main display screen, the remnants of that single firework will be exploded onto the secondary display screens. Further, by way of example, scrolling text may scroll from one display screen to the other giving the synchronized impression to the user that the multiple display screens are similar to one large screen. | 05-23-2013 |
20130127610 | INFORMATION PROVIDING APPARATUS - An information providing apparatus includes a tactile information provider and a controller. The tactile information provider is arranged within a rim portion of a steering wheel of a vehicle and provides a tactile sense to a driver. The controller controls the tactile information provider to provide support information to the driver. The support information is defined as information that supports a driving of the vehicle. The tactile information provider includes a trench arranged in a circumferential direction of the rim portion, a ring-shaped ring portion, and a driving portion. The ring portion is rotatably arranged in the trench and has an exposed surface such that the exposed surface contacts with at least one hand of the driver. The driving portion is controlled by the controller to drive the ring potion rotate in the circumferential direction to provide the support information to the driver. | 05-23-2013 |
20130141227 | VEHICLE-MOUNTED APPARATUS, COMPUTER-READABLE MEDIUM STORING APPLICATION PROGRAM INSTALLED IN PORTABLE INFORMATION TERMINAL, USE RESTRICTION METHOD FOR APPLICATION PROGRAM, PORTABLE INFORMATION TERMINAL, AND VEHICLE-MOUNTED SYSTEM - A vehicle-mounted apparatus outputs caution or warning information to an occupant in a vehicle if the vehicle-mounted apparatus does not continually receive information that shows that an application that is presently being executed in a portable information terminal connected to the vehicle-mounted apparatus has an attribute of being permitted to be used during the moving of a vehicle in which the vehicle-mounted apparatus is mounted. | 06-06-2013 |
20130154816 | METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A DISPLAY DEVICE OF A MOTOR VEHICLE - In a method for controlling a display device of a motor vehicle for displaying an environmental information relating to an environment of the motor vehicle, the environmental information is assigned at least one directional information which describes a detection direction of a detection device used for determining the environmental information or a direction to an object described by the environmental information based on a reference point, in particular a sitting position of the driver inside the motor vehicle, wherein the display device for displaying the environmental information which covers at least one angular range which lies in a horizontal plane is activated in a sub-range of the angular range which is assigned to the directional information. | 06-20-2013 |
20130154817 | GEOFENCED BASED BACK-UP LIMITS - A computer system that is configured to: (A) define a geofence surrounding a geographic area; (B) gather information associated with the geofenced area; and (C) assign one or more parameters to the geofenced area based on the information gathered, wherein at least one of the assigned parameters is used to monitor the performance of a delivery vehicle driver while the delivery vehicle driver is operating a delivery vehicle within the geofenced area. In particular embodiments, the parameters include a backup limit defining a number of times a delivery vehicle operating within the geofenced area is permitted to back up while operating the delivery vehicle within the geofenced area (e.g., during a particular delivery cycle). In other embodiments, the parameters include a maximum speed limit for the geofenced area. The system may be adapted to automatically generate an alert in response to the delivery vehicle operating outside of the defined parameters. | 06-20-2013 |
20130162421 | INFORMATION COMMUNICATION SYSTEM AND VEHICLE PORTABLE DEVICE - An information communication system has a vehicle portable device that conducts wireless communication with a vehicle, and a mobile terminal that includes a display part and conducts near-field wireless communication with the vehicle portable device. The vehicle portable device includes a vehicle information acquisition part that acquires vehicle information on the vehicle, wherein the vehicle information is transmitted from the vehicle by wireless communication, and a transmission controller that controls the transmission of the vehicle information to the mobile terminal by near-field wireless communication. The mobile terminal includes an execution controller that acquires the vehicle information transmitted from the vehicle portable device and controls execution of a predetermined program for displaying the vehicle information on the display part. | 06-27-2013 |
20130169426 | MOTOR VEHICLE WITH A HIGH-VOLTAGE SOURCE - A motor vehicle includes a high-voltage source for supplying consumers of a high-voltage on-board power supply system with electrical energy, an electrical separating device for separating the high-voltage source from the high-voltage on-board power supply system and a signal emission device for indicating the connection state between the high-voltage source and the onboard high-voltage power supply system. The signal emission device is activated for emission of a signal when the high-voltage source is separated from the onboard high-voltage power supply system, and is deactivated when the high-voltage source is connected to the onboard high-voltage power supply system. A non-activated signal emission device indicates a live state of the high-voltage on-board power supply system, thereby ensuring that a safe state of the onboard high-voltage power supply system is not falsely signaled in the event of a failure of the signal emission device, thereby eliminating risk to service personnel. | 07-04-2013 |
20130176120 | DISPLAY SYSTEM FOR WORKING MACHINE - A display system for a working machine displays basic information at all times and, in case of an abnormality, displays the details of the warning in addition to the basic information to enable an operator to reliably recognize details of the warning. For example, a first warning display function, upon receiving an abnormality information signal relating to a charge warning, displays an appropriate warning icon in a warning icon display region. A simplified basic-information display function, then displays simplified basic-information images and a second warning display function displays, in a free area of the display, a second warning message inclusive of a “Charge warning” message as display details of the warning icon, and of character information relating to a simplified remedial action. The operator can then reliably recognize the “Charge warning” and understand its details as well, by viewing the second warning message in addition to the warning icon. | 07-11-2013 |
20130181824 | VEHICLE RECEIVER SYSTEM, VEHICLE RECEIVER, AND OPERATING METHOD FOR VEHICLE RECEIVER - A vehicle receiver system includes: a receiver provided in a vehicle cabin, wherein an operating mode of the receiver includes a first mode for receiving a first wireless signal transmitted from a portable key, and a second mode for receiving a second wireless signal relating to a tire air pressure, transmitted from a transmitter provided on a tire; and a key verification device that performs key verification on the portable key in the vehicle cabin on the basis of the first wireless signal. In a predetermined situation, the receiver is configured such that the operating mode of the receiver is switched between the first mode and the second mode, and proportion of a second mode operation time in which the receiver operates in the second mode is set to be greater when a vehicle speed is relatively high than when the vehicle speed is relatively low. | 07-18-2013 |
20130201013 | Systems and Methods for Notifying a Caregiver of the Condition of a Child in a Vehicular Child Safety Restraint - Child seat installation monitoring system and methods that monitor child seat orientation, belt tension, air temperature, and other factors, and provide notifications and alerts to a user of conditions via indications, a mobile device such as a smart phone, an in-car notification system, and other systems. | 08-08-2013 |
20130207796 | APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING THE POSITION AND/OR ORIENTATION OF A TIRE MOUNTED UNIT IN A WHEEL MONITORING SYSTEM - An apparatus for determining the position and/or orientation of a tyre mounted unit in a wheel monitoring system comprises a lateral force sensor that is responsive to forces exerted on the respective tyre along a lateral axis that is parallel with an axle of the vehicle on which the tyre is mounted. The lateral force sensor is arranged to produce an output signal that indicates the direction of the exerted forces. A controller determines the position and/or orientation of the tyre unit depending on the exerted force direction indicated by the output signal. | 08-15-2013 |
20130234845 | INFORMATION DISPLAY SYSTEM FOR VEHICLE, INFORMATION DISPLAY METHOD FOR VEHICLE, VEHICLE AND MOUNTING MEMBER - An information display system for a vehicle includes an information display device, a mounting member, and a personal digital assistant. The information display device is mounted on a vehicle and is configured to display vehicle information. The mounting member is fixed to the vehicle. The personal digital assistant is detachably mounted on the vehicle via the mounting member in such a manner that at least a part of the vehicle information displayed on the information display device becomes non-visible by the personal digital assistant and includes a communication device and a display device. The communication device is configured to acquire at least vehicle information which is displayed on the information display device and which becomes non-visible from an electric accessory unit mounted on the vehicle. The display device is configured to display the vehicle information acquired using the communication device. | 09-12-2013 |
20130241722 | Kit for Controlling a Commercial Trucks Lights Wirelessly - A digital RF Kit used to control the lights of a commercial truck. The digital RF Kit comprises of a digital master RF device that is housed in a cabin of a commercial vehicle (the commercial vehicle has a front and rear side and it has a DC electrical system and a transmission), at least one front digital RF device that is positioned in the front of the vehicle that communicates with the digital master RF device and at least one front light of the vehicle, at least one rear digital RF device that is positioned in the rear of the vehicle that communicates with the digital master RF device and at least one rear light of the vehicle, and a transmission RF device that is connected to the vehicles transmission so that when the vehicle is placed in reverse, a signal is transmitted to the digital master RF device. | 09-19-2013 |
20130257608 | MOTOR VEHICLE WITH SEVERAL ACTIVE OR PASSIVE SAFETY DEVICES - A motor vehicle includes a safety device which is changeable between an idle position and an operative position, and an indicator which is rendered operational in at least one of two ways, a first way in which a first acoustic signal is triggered when the safety device departs the idle position, and a second acoustic signal, which differs from the first acoustic signal, is triggered when the safety device has assumed the operative position, a second way in which a first image is optically visualized in a display when the safety device departs the idle position, and a second image is optically visualized in the display when the safety device has assumed the operative position. | 10-03-2013 |
20130271275 | VEHICLE TELEMATICS COMMUNICATION FOR PROVIDING MOBILE DEVICE ALERTS - A method of providing a mobile device alert to a vehicle operator, where the method may provide an alert in the event that a mobile phone or other such device is not detected. In an exemplary embodiment, the method detects operation of a vehicle, such as when the ignition is started. Then, the method attempts detection of a mobile phone or other such wireless device associated with an operator of the vehicle. If the method determines that the attempted detection failed, then an alert is presented within the vehicle to help prevent the vehicle operator from leaving in the vehicle without his or her mobile device. | 10-17-2013 |
20130278404 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR DISPLAYING ENERGY FLOW IN HYBRID VEHICLE - Provided are a method and apparatus for displaying energy flow in a hybrid vehicle. The present invention adds a function, which displays breakdown and abnormal state information on modules and is not provided by an energy flow displaying function of the existing hybrid vehicle, to the energy flow displaying function, thus removing inconvenience of the existing energy flow displaying function that cannot check information on breakdown and abnormal states of a vehicle. | 10-24-2013 |
20130300553 | Hose or cable release alert system - An alerting system for signaling the displacement of a leading end portion of a hose or the like, carried by a vehicle, includes a hose-gripping unit, a visible or audible signal generator, and a mounting box for connecting the gripping unit to support structure. Displacement of the hose from the gripping unit may generate an alarm signal to enable the operator to immediately bring the vehicle to a stop, or it may generate a signal simply to indicate when one of several hoses has been intentionally deployed. | 11-14-2013 |
20130321137 | WARNING DEVICE FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE HAVING AT LEAST ONE ELECTRICALLY MOVABLE CLOSING ELEMENT FOR A VEHICLE OPENING - A warning device for a motor vehicle having at least one vehicle aperture, which comprises an electrically movable closure element, is provided. The warning device includes a position detector for detecting a position of the closure element, an evaluation unit for detecting a closing command of the motor vehicle and generating a warning signal if with the closing command an opened position of the closure element is sensed, a warning signal generator for outputting a warning signal, and a function operation device coupled to the evaluation unit for outputting the closing command and on which the warning signal generator is arranged. | 12-05-2013 |
20130342337 | ALERT SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR A VEHICLE - A method of alerting a driver of a vehicle is provided. The method includes: receiving alert settings configured by a user through a user interface; and selectively generating an alert pattern for at least one of a haptic alert device, an auditory alert device, and a visual alert device based on the alert settings. | 12-26-2013 |
20130342338 | ALERT SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR A VEHICLE - A method of alerting a driver of a vehicle is provided. The method includes: receiving conditions data from one or more collision avoidance systems; determining an alert mode based on the conditions data, wherein the alert mode indicates at least two of alert conditions, vehicle conditions, and driving scenarios; and at least one of arbitrating, synchronizing, and combining at least two alert patterns associated with the at least two of the alert conditions, the vehicle conditions, and the driving scenarios and associated with one or more alert devices. | 12-26-2013 |
20130342339 | ALERT SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR A VEHICLE - Methods and vehicles are provided for providing haptic feedback to a vehicle occupant. In one embodiment, the method includes evaluating conditions related to a vehicle, selecting a type of haptic alert based on the evaluated conditions, selecting a pattern of haptic actuators to command based on the type of haptic alert and a location of the haptic actuators in a seat of the vehicle, selecting a number of active haptic periods to command based on the type of haptic alert, selecting a duration of the active haptic periods and a duration of inactive haptic periods based on the type of haptic alert, and generating a signal indicating the active haptic periods based on the selected pattern of haptic actuators, the selected number of active haptic periods, and the selected duration of the active and inactive haptic periods. | 12-26-2013 |
20140002254 | LIGHTING DEVICE WITH ANIMATED SEQUENTIAL LIGHT FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE | 01-02-2014 |
20140002255 | WINDOW DEVICE WITH LIGHTING FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE | 01-02-2014 |
20140015661 | VEHICLE INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - In a vehicle information management system, a storage includes a storage region arranged to store abnormality data that includes diagnostic data, type information indicating a type of an abnormality, and occurrence number information that indicates the number of occurrences of each abnormality specified by the type information. When the type of an abnormality is specified by an abnormality specifying unit and a new diagnostic data is produced and if the abnormality data of the same type as the specified type is already stored in the storage region in the storage, an updating unit changes the occurrence number information to the latest information and overwrites and saves the diagnostic data in the storage region already stored with the abnormality data of the same type as the specified type. | 01-16-2014 |
20140035739 | VEHICLE INFORMATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS - An alert apparatus and related systems. The alert apparatus includes a controller and a wireless receiver connected to the controller and configured to receive data from a transmitter. The alert apparatus includes a packaging containing the controller and receiver and a visual indicator connected to be controlled by the controller and visible from outside of a vehicle on which the alert apparatus is mounted. The visual indicator is controllably activated by the controller based on the received data, and the alert apparatus is mounted on a windshield of the vehicle. | 02-06-2014 |
20140043152 | System and Method for Controlling Adaptive Cruise Control Based on Driver Status - A device for controlling an adaptive cruise control system based on driver status is provided. The device comprises a controller configured to receive at least one driver status signal indicative of the driver being either a primary driver or a secondary driver and to determine whether the driver of the vehicle is the one of the primary driver and the secondary driver based on the at least one driver status signal. The controller is further configured to allow control by a primary driver over operating parameters of an ACC system and to allow the primary driver to establish a restricted mode in which a secondary driver is prevented from making certain dis-allowed changes in the operating parameters. | 02-13-2014 |
20140062687 | INTERACTIVE AND DIRECT TRANSMISSION OF DATA FROM SIGNS AND BILLBOARDS - Provided are techniques for receiving a message from a user device; calculating the location and heading of the user device; correlating the location of the user device with any advertising or information display device in proximity to the user device; correlating a product with the display device; generating a second message with information stored in conjunction with the display device; and transmitting the second message to the user device. In one embodiment, a third message may be generated comprising an acceptance of an offer corresponding to the first or second message. In one embodiment, a vehicle or consumer may transmit diagnostic information and received information pertaining to businesses that can address an issue related to the diagnostic information. In one embodiment, a vehicle or consumer may transmit consumer and location information to register for a resource such as a parking spot that is related to a resource. | 03-06-2014 |
20140070932 | WIRELESSLY CONTROLLED HEADS-UP DISPLAY - A heads up display apparatus for a vehicle, comprising a wireless transceiver configured to connect and communicate with a device providing information for display, an energy storage device configured to provide energy to the display apparatus, a processor configured receive information from the transceiver and configure the information for display, and a display configured to output the information. | 03-13-2014 |
20140070933 | VEHICLE USER CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD OF PERFORMING A VEHICLE COMMAND - A vehicle user control system includes an interactive pad providing tactile feedback to a user and disposed on an exterior portion of a steering wheel. Also included is a controller in operable communication with the interactive pad and at least one vehicle component, wherein the controller is configured to perform at least one vehicle command associated with the at least one vehicle component. | 03-13-2014 |
20140070934 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR MONITORING DRIVER OBJECT DETECTION - Methods and systems are provided for detecting whether a driver of a vehicle detected an object outside of the vehicle. In one embodiment, the method includes: receiving external sensor data that indicates a scene outside of the vehicle; receiving internal sensor data that indicates an image of the driver; determining whether the driver detected the object based on the external sensor data and the internal sensor data; and selectively generating a control signal based on whether the driver detected the object. | 03-13-2014 |
20140077940 | ESTIMATING THE REMAINING LIFE OF SHAPE MEMORY ALLOY ACTUATORS - Mechanical devices powered by Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) wires or other linear elements offer advantages in automotive applications. Such SMA-powered devices are commonly reliable and long-lived but have a finite lifetime. Measurements of the electrical resistivity of an SMA element during operation of the element may be related to the remaining lifetime of the element. Because operation of SMA elements is promoted by heating the element, usually by passage of an electric current, the resistivity measurements, and hence assessment of SMA element operation, may be made without interruption to the operation of the SMA-powered device and without addition of dedicated sensors. | 03-20-2014 |
20140077941 | VEHICLE DISPLAY DEVICE - A vehicular indicator device for a hybrid vehicle which is provided with vehicle drive power sources in the form of an engine and an electric motor and which is driven in one of a plurality of vehicle drive modes including an EV drive mode, a series HV drive mode and a parallel HV drive mode that is automatically selected according to a vehicle drive power, said indicator device being configured to indicate the selected vehicle drive mode and said vehicle drive power, the vehicular indicator device being configured to indicate a running state of the hybrid vehicle as represented by said vehicle drive power and said selected vehicle drive mode, in a two-dimensional coordinate system on a display screen, which coordinate system is defined by said vehicle drive power and said selected vehicle drive mode. | 03-20-2014 |
20140132405 | ALERT SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR A VEHICLE - A method of alerting a driver of a vehicle is provided. The method includes: receiving conditions data from one or more collision avoidance systems; determining an alert mode based on the conditions data; and selectively coordinating an alert pattern for more than one of haptic alert devices, visual alert devices, and auditory alert devices based on the alert mode. | 05-15-2014 |
20140132406 | PALLET TRUCK WITH LIFT INDICATOR ASSEMBLY AND ASSOCIATED METHODS - A lift indicator assembly for a pallet truck includes a lift sensor assembly, and a lift status display for determining a lift condition of a load wheel of the pallet truck. The lift sensor assembly is to be carried by a fork of the pallet truck and includes a housing section, and a primary sensor assembly. The primary sensor assembly includes a first primary arm coupled to the housing section, and a first primary contact switch carried by the housing section and adjacent the first primary arm. The first primary contact switch has an engaged position and a disengaged position based on position of the first primary arm. The lift status display determines the lift condition of the load wheel based on position of the first primary contact switch. | 05-15-2014 |
20140145839 | RECONFIGURABLE INSTRUMENT CLUSTER ASSEMBLY WITH A MECHANICAL POINTER OVERLYING A MIRROR - An instrument cluster assembly suitable for installation into a vehicle to display information to an operator of the vehicle. The assembly includes a reconfigurable display, a mirror, and a pointer. The reconfigurable display is configured to display an image. The mirror is oriented to reflect the image toward the operator. The pointer is movably overlying the minor such that the pointer is effective to indicate a feature of the image to the operator. The pointer may be mounted on a rotatable shaft passing through a hole in the minor such that rotation of the shaft is effective to orient the pointer. | 05-29-2014 |
20140145840 | SYSTEM FOR DISPLAYING INFORMATION IN A VEHICLE - The invention relates to a system ( | 05-29-2014 |
20140152433 | DISPLAY CONTROL APPARATUS - A display control apparatus that assigns display target contents to a plurality of areas configured as display areas in a screen of a display apparatus mounted on a vehicle is provided. The display control apparatus comprises a content manager for managing the contents in association with content information indicating attributes of the contents, an area manager for managing the areas in association with area information indicating attributes of the areas, and a content assignment controller for generating a content list listing the contents and determining content-area combinations based on the content information and the area information in an order of the content list. | 06-05-2014 |
20140159887 | DRIVER ALERTS - A driver alert system includes a computer processor disposed in a vehicle. The computer processor is configured to receive driver attention data over a vehicle network during a driving event. The computer processor executes logic to process the driver attention data and evaluate the driver attention data for a triggering event. The system also includes a steering wheel unit disposed in the vehicle and lights that are integrated on a front windshield-facing surface of a steering wheel of the steering wheel unit. The lights are positioned at an angle to reflect light off of a front windshield of the vehicle. The system also includes a controller disposed in the steering wheel unit. The controller is communicatively coupled to the lights and the vehicle network. The controller receives a request from the computer processor to activate the lights when the triggering event has occurred. | 06-12-2014 |
20140159888 | EVENT WARNING SYSTEM AND METHOD THEREOF - An event warning system is provided. The innovation can provide real time, personalized and meaningful alert warnings to either or both a machine operator/driver and pedestrians who are in harm's way, or are potentially approaching harm's way. Different from generic warnings such as backup alarms and flashing lights, the innovation's personalized alarm and notification functionality minimizes alarm complacency and maximizes their effectiveness. | 06-12-2014 |
20140167943 | WIRELESS PROGRAMMABLE CLUSTER - A disclosed instrument cluster assembly for a motor vehicle includes a plurality of instruments for displaying information indicative of a vehicle operating parameter, at least one memory device for storing data utilized for generating information indicative of vehicle operating parameters and a controller in communication with the plurality instruments and the at least one memory device for controlling operation and display of information indicative of the vehicle operating parameter. A wireless communication device is included and is in communication with both the controller and memory device for receiving data through a wireless connection that is utilized by one of the controller and the at least one memory device for generating information indicative of vehicle operating parameters. | 06-19-2014 |
20140176322 | DISPLAY DEVICE - A display device includes an image-type display part which outputs various information, and to be mounted and used in a vehicle. The display part outputs a scale which has marks, a first pointer which points to a part of the scale to indicate a present value of a state quantity of the vehicle, and a second pointer which points to a part of the scale to indicate the maximum value of the state quantity of the vehicle in a first time period on the past. | 06-26-2014 |
20140197941 | CAR KEY AND CAR CONTROL METHOD - In a method for controlling a car using a car key, a selected function is received from a function menu displayed on an operation interface of a display device of the car key. System data about the car is acquired from a management unit of the car, and devices of the car are controlled using the management unit, according to the selected function. The system data about the car or status of the devices of the car is displayed on the operation interface of the display device. | 07-17-2014 |
20140210603 | FLUID LEAKAGE DETECTION SYSTEM FOR VEHICLES - A fluid leakage detection system includes a fluid leakage sensor and an alarming system. The fluid leakage sensor is electrically coupled to the alarming system, and is configured to send signals pertaining to any detected fluid leakage. Further, the fluid leakage sensor includes an electrically non-conductive body and an electrical circuit. The non-conductive body is positioned proximal to a leakage region and it collect and absorbs leaking fluid from the region. The electric circuit includes a first portion embedded within the non-conductive body, and a second portion connected to the first portion. The second portion of the electrical circuit lies exterior to the non-conductive body. The electrical circuit is open-circuited under no fluid leakage detection conditions, and is closed-circuited under leakage detection conditions. The alarm system is configured to generate an alarm signal when the electric circuit is closed-circuited. | 07-31-2014 |
20140232539 | Condition Monitoring System, Condition Monitoring System Unit, and Terminal System Unit - A condition monitoring system includes a terminal system unit and a condition monitoring system unit connected together via radiocommunication channels. The terminal system unit is mounted on a self-propelled machine, while the monitoring system unit is arranged at a control center. The monitoring system unit is provided with a unit for setting an alarm delivery condition, another unit for setting an aggregation condition, a further unit for transmitting the alarm delivery condition and aggregation condition so set, and a screen display unit for displaying various information. The terminal system unit is provided with an alarm creation unit for creating alarm information according to the alarm delivery condition so transmitted, an aggregate data creation unit for creating aggregate data according to the transmitted aggregation condition, and a data transmitting unit for transmitting the alarm information and aggregate data so created. | 08-21-2014 |
20140253309 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR RESPONDING TO A LANE DEVIATION EVENT OF A VEHICLE - Methods and systems are described for providing feedback in the event of a lane deviation of a vehicle having a power steering system. Vehicle data, such as speed, a steering angle, and the like, may be acquired (e.g., from a sensor system of the vehicle). An activation signal may be generated based on the acquired data. A haptic warning may then be generated using the power steering system of the vehicle based on the activation signal. | 09-11-2014 |
20140266657 | SEAT OCCUPANT DETERMINING APPARATUS - A seat passenger determination apparatus includes: a first determination processing unit configured to determine a passenger is not seated on a vehicle seat by having gotten out of the vehicle and transfer the mode to a not-seated recognition mode when a load variation width detected by a load detection apparatus falls within a first threshold value in a state in which a non-fastened state of a seatbelt is detected; and a second determination processing unit configured to determine the passenger is not seated on the vehicle seat by having gotten out of the vehicle and transfer the mode to the not-seated recognition mode when the load variation width detected by the load detection apparatus falls within a second threshold value which is larger than the first threshold value during a predetermined time when the fact that the seatbelt has changed from the fastened state to the non-fastened state is detected. | 09-18-2014 |
20140266658 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR USER SELECTABLE AUDIBLE EVENT INDICATION FOR A VEHICLE - A sound generation system for a vehicle includes a sound generator for operating a speaker of the vehicle to produce an audible sound. A controller detects a vehicle operation event and controls the sound generator to generate an audible indication of the event, an association of the audible indication with the event being programmable by a user. | 09-18-2014 |
20140266659 | Start Fault Indicator System - A start fault indicator system for outdoor power equipment may include an illuminating element and circuitry to perform start condition checks to determine if a start fault has occurred. The illuminating element may be configured to illuminate a first predetermined color in response to detection of a start fault occurring, and illuminate a second predetermined color in response to determining that no start fault is outstanding, where the first and second predetermined colors are different colors. | 09-18-2014 |
20140292503 | Systems and Methods for Networking of Car Seat Monitoring Systems Utilizing a Central Hub - Systems and methods for monitoring child seats and children in child seats through sensors paired with a central processing hub which in turn relays notifications of conditions to caregivers or other users based on a notification hierarchy and the urgency of the conditions detected. | 10-02-2014 |
20140300457 | Systems and Methods for Rear View Mirror Displays - A system for coupling to a vehicle and for causing actuation of a remote device via a control signal transmission includes a transmitter for causing the control signal transmission to the remote device. The system further includes a circuit configured to cause a back-up display to indicate status of the remote device in response to a status determination. | 10-09-2014 |
20140313024 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR LOCK NOTIFICATION - Methods and apparatus are provided for notifying an operator that a door of a vehicle is locked. The method can include receiving a request to lock a lock associated with the door, and determining an ambient lighting condition associated with the vehicle. Based upon the ambient lighting condition, outputting audible data, visual data or both audible data and visual data to indicate that the door is locked. | 10-23-2014 |
20140327533 | DISPLAY CONTROL APPARATUS - A display control apparatus for assigning a content to an area of a screen of an in-vehicle display and for displaying the content is disclosed. When a display instruction to display a new content different from a present content to an area is generated during displaying of the present content on the area, the display control apparatus selects either one of the present content and the new content as a display target of the area based on an importance degree of the new content and an importance degree of the present content. | 11-06-2014 |
20140333425 | VEHICLE STATUS NOTIFICATION AND OPERATOR IDENTIFICATION - A computing system located on-board a vehicle issues an event notification responsive to detection of an event condition. The on-board computing system detects the presence of wireless enabled devices located within the vehicle or within proximity to the vehicle over a wireless communications link. The on-board computing system seeks to determine the identity of one or more persons that enter, attempt to enter, or operate the vehicle based on identifiers obtained from one or more wireless enabled devices carried by those persons. The on-board computing system distinguishes multiple users from each other by designating one user as the vehicle operator, and one or more other users as passengers of the vehicle. The on-board computing system may include a removable on-board interface device that interfaces with an on-board vehicle control system. | 11-13-2014 |
20140347178 | WADING VEHICLE WATER LEVEL DISPLAY - A vehicle ( | 11-27-2014 |
20150015386 | Warning Device and Method for Warning a Vehicle Driver of a Motor Vehicle - A warning device in a motor vehicle is provided for warning a vehicle driver as a function of a triggering signal of a driver assistance system in response to a certain event requiring a driver take-over. In this case, a mobile terminal is present in the vehicle, which can be connected with the driver assistance system and has a corresponding program module, by which the unrestricted use of the mobile terminal is basically permitted, but which, interrupts the unrestricted use and outputs a warning signal, prompting the driver to take over when the triggering signal is received. | 01-15-2015 |
20150029013 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR FACILITATING VIEWING OF INFORMATION IN A MACHINE - Methods and systems for facilitating viewing of information by machine users associated with machines, such as vehicle users in vehicles, are disclosed. In one example embodiment, a method for facilitating viewing of first information comprises (a) determining second information concerning a viewing direction of the machine user, and (b) adapting at least one operation of at least one display device so as to display the first information. Also, in an additional example embodiment, the method further comprises (c) additionally determining whether a first condition has been met, where the first condition is indicative of whether the machine user has failed to view in a sufficient manner the first information for or during a first predetermined amount of time. Additionally, the method comprises (d), upon the first condition being additionally determined to have been met, one or both of (i) repeating (a), (b), and (c), and (ii) outputting a signal configured to be sensed by the machine user. | 01-29-2015 |
20150035664 | AIR SUSPENSION PRESSURE DISPLAY - A system for displaying the relative air pressure in an air suspension system for a vehicle comprises an intake line connecting from the air suspension system to a manifold. One or more pressure switches are connected to the manifold. A corresponding light is attached to each of the pressure switches. When the pressure within the manifold reaches preconfigured levels, one of the pressure switches is closed, and a corresponding light is illuminated. The lights are located on the side of the vehicle such that they can be easily seen. | 02-05-2015 |
20150035665 | Vehicle Exception Event Management Systems - Exception event recorders and analysis systems include: vehicle mounted sensors arranged as a vehicle event recorder to capture both discrete and non-discrete data; a discretization facility; a database; and an analysis server all coupled together as a computer network. Motor vehicles with video cameras and onboard diagnostic systems capture data when the vehicle is involved in a crash or other anomaly (an ‘event’). In station where interpretation of non-discrete data is rendered, i.e. a discretization facility, captured data is used as a basis for production of supplemental discrete data to further characterize the event. Such interpreted data is joined to captured data and inserted into a database in a structure which is searchable and which supports logical or mathematical analysis by automated machines. A coupled analysis server is arranged to test stored data for prescribed conditions and upon finding such, to initiate further actions appropriate for the detected condition. | 02-05-2015 |
20150042462 | INSTRUMENT PANEL POINTER WITH TRANSPARENT SECTION - A vehicle instrument panel assembly that includes a display surface and a pointer equipped with an electro-optical cell. The display surface is equipped with a graphical indicator. The graphical indicator is selectively operable to an off-state and an illuminated-state. The pointer is operable to move about an axis to point to indicia on the display surface. The pointer is operable to a position that obstructs the graphical indictor from view. The electro-optical cell is operable to a transparent-state and located on the pointer to overlay the graphical indicator when the pointer is at the position that obstructs the graphical indictor from view. The cell is operated to the transparent-state when the graphical indicator is operated to the illuminated-state. | 02-12-2015 |
20150048935 | DETECTION OF ABSOLUTE VEHICLE MILEAGE MANIPULATION - A device for determining if the absolute mileage of a vehicle has been manipulated is disclosed. The device includes a first sensor to determine a first absolute mileage of the vehicle and a second sensor to determine a second absolute mileage of the vehicle. The first and second sensors differ in terms of the sensor and computing method for determining the first and second absolute mileage. For example, the first sensor may be a convention mileage device and the second sensor may be a GPS-enabled device. A comparator determines a difference between the first and second absolute mileage. If the difference exceeds a prescribed limiting value, the comparator generates a warning signal, and stores this warning signal in the storage device. A display is used to display the first absolute mileage in the vehicle. | 02-19-2015 |
20150054637 | WARNING ALARM APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR STEERING WHEEL - A warning alarm apparatus for a steering wheel includes at least one piezoelectric transducer provided in the rim of the steering wheel; a current supplier; one or more sensors, equipped in the steering wheel or a motor vehicle, sense a dangerous factor; and a controller that determines whether a sensor value sensed by the sensor is included in a warning alarm range, and controls operation of the current supplier according to the sensor value. | 02-26-2015 |
20150070158 | ALERT DISPLAY DEVICE AND ALERT DISPLAY METHOD - Disclosed is an alert display device which highlights a display image for highlighting an object to be alerted in an actual scene in front of a driver of a vehicle or around the vehicle in a superimposing manner. The object to be alerted in front of the vehicle or around the vehicle is detected by a detection unit, and the display image for highlighting the object to be alerted in the actual scene in front of the driver of the vehicle or around the vehicle is displayed in a superimposing manner. At this time, the size of the display image is adjusted based on the position of the object to be alerted detected by the detection unit or/and a range in which the eyes of the driver are likely to be present. | 03-12-2015 |
20150084758 | DRIVER PROMPTING BRAKING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A driver prompting braking system includes a detection device adapted to sense at least one object in front of the vehicle; a detection system interfacing with the detection device, the detection system adapted to detect the at least one object; and a brake coaching system interfacing with the detection system, the brake coaching system adapted to determine a brake application timing for an operator of the vehicle to avoid the object and optimize fuel economy of the vehicle. A driver prompting braking method is also disclosed. | 03-26-2015 |
20150084759 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR NOTIFICATION THAT A LIVING ENTITY REMAINS IN A VEHICLE - A system and method for notifying a driver who is leaving a stationary motor vehicle that there is still a person or an animal in the motor vehicle is presented. Exemplary notification modes include a notification mode in which the notification of the driver also depends on whether the current time falls in preset times; a notification mode in which the notification also depends on whether the motor vehicle is located within preset geographical areas; and a notification mode in which the notification also depends on whether preset or learned patterns of driver behavior have been detected. | 03-26-2015 |
20150102920 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR NOTIFYING ALARM STATE OF VEHICLE - A method and system for notifying an alarm state of a vehicle include displaying an alarm corresponding to an alarm state of an alarm state occurring in a vehicle, and determining whether a driver recognizes the displayed alarm. The alarm is displayed in a different manner based on a recognition frequency and duration of time the driver recognized the alarm when it is determined that the driver recognizes the displayed alarm. An alarm sound is output for a period of time when it is determined that the driver does not recognize the displayed alarm. | 04-16-2015 |
20150109119 | DRIVE ASSIST CONTROL DEVICE - A drive assist control device includes a steering determination unit | 04-23-2015 |
20150116103 | METHODS, SYSTEMS AND APPARATUS FOR PROVIDING NOTIFICATION THAT A WIRELESS COMMUNICATION DEVICE HAS BEEN LEFT INSIDE A VEHICLE - Computer-implemented methods, systems and apparatus are disclosed for providing notification at a vehicle that a pre-paired consumer electronics device (CED) has been left inside the vehicle. The vehicle includes a processor and a vehicular system controllable via the processor. The processor can receive an alert signal that indicates that a pre-paired CED has been left inside the vehicle during a time period after a trigger event has occurred. The processor is further configured to control activation of the vehicular system, in response to receiving the alert signal, to cause the vehicular system to generate another signal that is perceptible outside the vehicle to indicate that the pre-paired CED has been left inside the vehicle. | 04-30-2015 |
20150116104 | CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VEHICLE HAVING WARNING FUNCTION - A control system and method for a vehicle having a warning function are provided. The system includes a control device that is configured to determine whether an amplifier is installed within the vehicle based on an occurrence of an alert situation. The control device is configured to transmit an alarm sound to an amplifier when the amplifier is installed therein and transmit the alarm sound to a cluster speaker when the amplifier is not installed within the vehicle. The amplifier is configured to transmit amplifier installation information to the control device and output an alarm sound received from the control device and the cluster speaker is configured to output the alarm sound received from the control device. | 04-30-2015 |
20150130600 | VEHICLE EARLY WARNING SYSTEM AND VEHICLE EARLY WARNING METHOD - A vehicle early warning system and a vehicle early warning method are provided. The vehicle early warning system comprises an inter-vehicle communication device, a processor and a notice device. The inter-vehicle communication device receives an other-vehicle message package having an other-vehicle identification code and an other-vehicle sense message. The processor determines whether the other-vehicle identification code is valid. The processor determines whether the other-vehicle sense message is valid when the other-vehicle identification code is valid. The processor determines whether a driving location is on a predicated collision path according to the other-vehicle sense message when the other-vehicle sense message is valid. The notice device outputs a notice signal when the driving location is on a predicated collision path. | 05-14-2015 |
20150130601 | MULTIMEDIA INFORMATION AND CONTROL SYSTEM FOR AUTOMOBILES - In a multimedia information and control system for use in an automobile, at least one interface is employed which enables a user to access information concerning the automobile and control vehicle functions in an efficient manner. The user may select one of a plurality of displayed options on a screen of such an interface. Through audio, video and/or text media, the user is provided with information concerning the selected option and the vehicle function corresponding thereto. Having been so informed, the user may activate the selected option to control the corresponding vehicle function. | 05-14-2015 |
20150130602 | DISPLAY DEVICE FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE AND TEST METHOD FOR A DISPLAY DEVICE OF A MOTOR VEHICLE - A display device for a motor vehicle includes: a display for displaying vehicle information; a computing device receiving vehicle data via a data bus, evaluating the received vehicle data, and causing an acoustic warning as a function of the evaluation of the vehicle data; and a connection between the display device and a loudspeaker for outputting of the acoustic warning, the connection to the loudspeaker being connected to an input of an evaluation device in such a way that, depending on a signal present at the connection of the loudspeaker, a malfunctioning or a functioning of the acoustic output is determined, and an optical warning display is provided for outputting an optical warning in the case of a malfunction of the acoustic output. | 05-14-2015 |
20150145664 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR GENERATING VIRTUAL LANE, AND SYSTEM SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING LANE KEEPING OF VEHICLE WITH THE APPARATUS - Disclosed are an apparatus and a method for generating a virtual lane, which correct or estimate an undetected lane depending on detection of a lane at each side and a system for controlling lane keeping of a vehicle with the apparatus. The apparatus for generating a virtual lane according to the present invention includes: a lane detection judging unit configured to judge whether both lanes of a front road are normally detected based on a front image; a lane correction unit configured to generate a virtual lane by correcting one lane based on the other lane when it is judged that the one lane of both lanes is not normally detected; and a lane estimation unit configured to generate the virtual lane by estimating both lanes based on previously detected lane information when it is judged that either lane is not normally detected. | 05-28-2015 |
20150306958 | INSTRUMENT CLUSTER INCLUDING TELLTALE ILLUMINATION - An instrumentation gauge for a vehicle includes a single piece light guide divided into multiple sections by an opaque light guide insert. The single piece light guide includes at least one telltale graphic printed on a surface of the light guide in each of the light guide sections. When light is communicated into a given section of the light guide, the light scatters on the telltale graphic causing the graphic to be illuminated and distinguishable from a same or similar colored background. | 10-29-2015 |
20150314729 | DRIVER COMMUNICATION INTERFACE IN AN AT LEAST PARTLY AUTONOMOUS DRIVE SYSTEM - A communication interface between a driver of a vehicle and an at least partly autonomous drive system in the vehicle. The communication interface is configured to communicate a haptic performance loss signal to the driver when a performance loss is determined in the at least partly autonomous drive system. | 11-05-2015 |
20150328987 | INFORMATION PROCESSING TERMINAL, DISPLAY DEVICE, INFORMATION PROCESSING METHOD, DISPLAY METHOD, INFORMATION PROCESSING PROGRAM AND DISPLAY PROGRAM - Provided is a display device which is mounted on a moving body and with which a communication connection is carried out via a connection means with an information processing terminal. Specifically, the display device acquires and displays an application image which is outputted from the information processing terminal. The display device also acquires, from the information processing terminal via the connection means, properties of the application which generates the application image. The properties of the application would be information of whether the application is controllable from an external device, the reliability of the application, the type of the application, its display applicability, etc. The display device restricts the display of the application image on the basis of the acquired properties of the application and the travel state of the moving body. | 11-19-2015 |
20150354178 | SCREEN DISPLAY METHOD OF WHEEL LOADER - Provided is a screen display method of a wheel loader, which is capable of improving efficiency of use of a monitor and user convenience, and displaying more vehicle information. A screen display method of a wheel loader according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes: obtaining vehicle information about the wheel loader; displaying the obtained vehicle information on a plurality of monitors; and dividing and displaying the displayed vehicle information from at least one monitor to another monitor among the plurality of monitors according to an operation state of the wheel loader. | 12-10-2015 |
20150367770 | Attention and Event Management - The present disclosure provides techniques for dynamic driver attention and event notification management based on the current contextual information about a vehicle, driver attention, and a distraction weight of a notification of an event. A method may include receiving a first contextual information about a motorized vehicle. An indication of the occurrence of a first event may be received. It may be determined that the first event has a first event notification weight that satisfies a first notification threshold based on the first contextual information. As a result, a first notification of the first event may be provided to a user of the motorized vehicle. | 12-24-2015 |
20160009175 | ADAPTING A WARNING OUTPUT BASED ON A DRIVER'S VIEW | 01-14-2016 |
20160052427 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CHILD RESTRAINT MONITORING - Included are systems and methods for child restraint monitoring. Some embodiments include determining that a child restraint seat has been installed in a vehicle seat of a vehicle, determining whether the child restraint seat is being properly utilized, and detecting an issue with the utilization of the child restraint seat. Some embodiments include determining that a guardian is remote from the vehicle and, in response to detecting the issue with the utilization of the child restraint seat and determining that the guardian is remote from the vehicle, sending a communication to a third party, wherein the communication provides an option to contact the vehicle to regarding improper utilization of the child restraint seat. | 02-25-2016 |
20160055738 | REMOTE WATER IN FUEL INDICATOR UNIT - A positionable water in fuel indicator unit including an indicator housing having a back panel, and a housing cover connected to the back panel. The water in fuel indicator unit can also include a signal receiving device configured to receive a water in fuel signal from a water in fuel sensor located in the fuel filter, a first indicator visible through the housing cover and configured to indicate when a water level in the fuel filter is less than a predetermined threshold, a second indicator visible through the housing cover and configured to indicate when the water level in the fuel filter is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold, and a controller enclosed by the housing cover. The controller can be configured to activate the first indicator based on the water in fuel signal, and activate the second indicator based on the water in fuel signal. | 02-25-2016 |
20160071394 | ELECTRONIC DEVICE AND METHOD FOR ACTIVATING DRIVING MODE OF THE ELECTRONIC DEVICE - Method of activating a driving mode of an electronic device includes obtaining a movement speed of the electronic device. The driving mode is activated when the movement speed is greater than a predetermined value, and a detection device that is connected to the electronic device, senses motion that is indicative of user movement. | 03-10-2016 |
20160075189 | TIRE TREAD WEAR SENSOR SYSTEM - A system monitors wear of a vehicle part. The system includes a piezoelectric disk electrically connected to a radio frequency circuit for receiving electrical current from the piezoelectric disk and an antenna for actively transmitting a signal from the radio frequency circuit to a microprocessor such that, when the piezoelectric disk contacts a surface through wear, the radio frequency circuit actively generates a signal received by the microprocessor. | 03-17-2016 |
20160075234 | IN-VEHICLE DISPLAY APPARATUS - A display unit incorporated in the housing surface of an instrument panel changes its display variously together with other display devices of the instrument panel such as a liquid crystal display, and displays information such as driving information, danger notification information and entertainment information in coordination. | 03-17-2016 |
20160075235 | IN-VEHICLE DISPLAY APPARATUS AND INSTRUMENT PANEL - A display unit incorporated in the housing surface of an instrument panel on the passenger seat side changes its display variously together with other display devices such as a liquid crystal display and a line illumination, and displays information such as driving information, danger notification information and entertainment information in coordination. | 03-17-2016 |
20160082923 | AN ALARM SYSTEM - An alarm system fox a vehicle, comprising a, trigger monitor in communication, with a trigger sensor and a safety belt sensor, the trigger monitor arranged to receive from the safety belt sensor a safety belt signal indicating that a safety belt in the vehicle is retained by a corresponding safety belt retainer; and upon receipt of the safety belt signal, monitor the trigger sensor to determine whether or not a trigger condition is met with respect to the trigger sensor; and an alarm generator in communication with the trigger monitor, the alarm generator arranged to generate an alarm signal upon a determination by the trigger monitor that the trigger condition is met. | 03-24-2016 |
20160093215 | ALERT SYSTEMS AND METHODS USING A TRANSPARENT DISPLAY - Methods and systems are provided for displaying a user alert option in a vehicle having a transparent conformal display unit. In one embodiment, a method includes: receiving user input indicating a request to view an alert option; and in response to the user input, generating a conformal image that illustrates at least one of a time and a distance to a point, and selectively generating a display signal to display the conformal image on a transparent display of the vehicle through the transparent conformal display unit. | 03-31-2016 |
20160114725 | Method for a Vehicle Misfuelling Alert System - A method for a vehicle misfuelling alert system warns and prevents the use or possible use of regular fuel in a diesel vehicle. The alert system includes a sensor, a microprocessor, and an alert device. The sensor and the alert device are integrated into the diesel vehicle as well as electronically connected to each other through the microprocessor. The method includes capturing raw data through the sensor, wherein the raw data corresponds to a current use or potential use of regular fuel within the diesel vehicle. The raw data is then sent from the sensor to the microprocessor for analysis. The microprocessor compares the raw data against allowable conditions for the refueling the diesel vehicle. A trigger command is generated by the microprocessor, if the raw data does not match the allowable conditions. The trigger command is then sent to and executed by the alert device. | 04-28-2016 |
20160137102 | VEHICLE OCCUPANT CLASSIFICATION - A vehicle system includes at least two sensors. A first sensor is configured to output a child restraint signal indicating a presence of a child restraint system. A second sensor is configured to output a belt tension signal representing a tension associated with a seat belt. A processing device is programmed to determine whether the child restraint system includes a child seat or a booster seat based on the child restraint signal and the belt tension signal. | 05-19-2016 |
20160159201 | Processing Unit for Vehicle Air Conditioner Warning, Warning Device and Warning Method - A processing unit, method, and device for vehicle air conditioner warning are disclosed. The processing unit is configured to judge a ventilation state of the current vehicle location based on positioning satellite signals, to judge an operation state of the vehicle engine based on information, to judge a running state of the vehicle based on information received, to judge a using state of the air conditioner based on information, to judge a vehicle door/window opening/closing state based on information, and to determine that there is a potential risk of poisoning and initiate the warning element when all the following conditions are met: the ventilation state at the current vehicle location is bad, the engine is in operation, the vehicle is in a stopped state or runs at a low speed, the air conditioner is being used, and all the doors and windows of the vehicle are closed. | 06-09-2016 |
20160159219 | INSTRUMENT FOR VEHICLE - A dial, an LED, a black print film and a liquid crystal display panel are provided. A non-black print region where the black print film is absent is provided in, of a back surface of the dial, a circumferential part surrounding an opening and including an inner edge defining the opening. | 06-09-2016 |
20160159279 | ALERT SYSTEM FOR USER OF VEHICLE - An alert system includes a vehicle that transmits predetermined verification information within a communication range and a portable terminal that performs a predetermined alert operation on receiving the verification information. The portable terminal includes a control part that stores reference status being status of the vehicle and needing no alert operation. The control part regularly receives the verification information within the communication range. The control part determines that an alert operation is necessary when the portable terminal is moved out of the communication range from inside of the communication range and when a result of comparison between the verification information received immediately before the portable terminal is moved out of the communication range and the reference status stored in advance indicates that the verification information and the reference status are different. The control part performs the alert operation when it is determined that the alert operation is necessary. | 06-09-2016 |
20160159286 | Rear View Mirror System and Related Methods - A rear view mirror system includes a body attached to a front windshield of a wheeled vehicle. The body includes a rear side having a rear view mirror and a front side, opposite the rear side, having a display which displays a message in response to the selector being selected. The message may include: a message that a light is out or broken; a message that a gas cap is off or that a gas panel is open; a message that a tire is flat or low; a message that a blinker is on; a message that brights are on; a message that a door is ajar; a message that a trunk is ajar; a message that help is needed; a message that a vehicle may switch lanes; a message requesting to allow the wheeled vehicle to pass another wheeled vehicle, and/or; a message indicating that another driver may proceed. | 06-09-2016 |
20160185220 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF TRACKING WITH ASSOCIATED SENSORY FEEDBACK - The aspects of the present disclosure provide a tracking system with associated sensory feedback and method for activating a component and adjusting the component's mode of operation within a vehicle with a tracking system. Sensory feedback may be provided based on the user's gaze or input detected by the tracking system—and/or in response to the change in the component's mode of operation. The system and method may further include the ability to control and adjust the component through gesture-based control. | 06-30-2016 |
20160375771 | VEHICULAR POINTER-TYPE RESIDUAL QUANTITY METER - A vehicular pointer-type residual quantity meter comprises: a display panel that has a scale part which allows a driver to recognize a residual quantity, and a non-scale part that differs from the scale part; a pointer unit that is disposed behind the display panel; a pointer driver body unit that carries out a movement of the pointer unit in a real space; and a control unit that controls the pointer driver body unit in so that the pointer unit indicates one of metering regions in the scale part in replay to a current residual quantity. The control part controls the pointer driver body unit so that when the residual quantity decreases to zero, the pointer unit moves from a metering region corresponding to a zero residual quantity in a direction opposite to a metering region corresponding to a residual quantity value greater than zero to the non-scale part of the display panel. | 12-29-2016 |
20160375825 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR MANAGING SELF-BALANCING VEHICLE - A method for managing a self-balancing vehicle includes establishing a first Blue Tooth connection with the self-balancing vehicle, acquiring traveling state data of the self-balancing vehicle through the first Blue Tooth connection, determining whether a smart warning mode is enabled, establishing a second Blue Tooth connection with a smart wearable device if the smart warning mode is enabled, acquiring a preset monitored item and a preset warning event, monitoring the monitored item in the traveling state data for determining whether the warning event has occurred, and sending a warning message to the smart wearable device through the second Blue Tooth connection if the warning event has occurred. | 12-29-2016 |