Telematics enhanced mobile device safety interlock

Abstract

A vehicle includes a telematics controller and at least three short range, low power interior transceivers, one of which is focused on a vehicle's driver's seat only. At least two additional individual short range, low power interior transceivers are focused on a front passenger seat, and a rear seat. A fourth or more short range, low power interior transceiver may be included in a larger vehicle. Synergistic interaction is provided between a vehicle's telematics controller and wireless devices (e.g. cell phones, smart phones, PDAs, wireless laptops, etc.) to parametrically control at least one wireless service or other operation of a wireless device presumed operated by the driver of the vehicle. Example wireless services blocked or forced into a safe mode (such as hands-free operation) include SMS, Email, and Voice services.

Description

[0001]This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional No. 61 / 344,381 to Wallace et al., entitled “Telematics Enhanced Mobile Device Safety Interlock” filed Jul. 9, 2010; and from U.S. Provisional No. 61 / 344,382 to Wallace et al., entitled “Telematics Basic Mobile Device Safety Interlock” filed Jul. 9, 2010, the entirety of both of which are expressly incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]This invention relates generally to telecommunications. More particularly, it relates to a safety interlock system blocking usage of given telecommunication services while operating a vehicle.[0004]2. Background of the Related Art[0005]When a mobile subscriber is a mere passenger (not the driver / operator) in any kind of ground transportation it is perfectly safe to use a mobile device to access mobile services. However, when the mobile subscriber is operating a vehicle, use of mobile services may pose a significant danger.[0006]Studie...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

"The invention is a safety interlock for vehicles that uses short range, low power transceivers to detect the position of a mobile device in the vehicle and determine if it is being operated from the operator's seat. If the device is being operated from the seat, a safety mode is activated to restrict its use. This helps to prevent accidents caused by distracted drivers and ensures safe driving habits."

Problems solved by technology

However, when the mobile subscriber is operating a vehicle, use of mobile services may pose a significant danger.

A driver who accesses mobile services will respond slowly to a crisis, resulting in their vehicle traveling farther before stopping.

Messaging while operating a vehicle is more dangerous to both the vehicle operator and people nearby than drunk drivers.

Even engaging in a voice conversation on a wireless device while operating a moving vehicle has been found in some studies to be just as dangerous as driving while intoxicated.

There are currently few limitations (if any) imposed on when and where a person can send / receive a message using a mobile device.

However, in conventional systems there is no linkage to the SMSC or usage control server or other part of the network for any data referring to movement, motion, speed, etc. of the wireless subscriber.

As a result persons operating vehicles can access mobile services even though doing so makes them more dangerous than if they were legally intoxicated.

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