Smart Safe Console System

Abstract

A smart safe console system is provided herein. The smart safe console system includes a smart safe console assembly for attachment to a vehicle, the smart safe console assembly having a safe body suitable for protecting an electronic device, a button configured to control input and output with the electronic device when a vehicle hosting the smart safe console system is in use, and a wireless charging device. Such a smart safe console system is useful for improving the safety of a user when moving in a vehicle having an electronic device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention generally relates to the field of vehicle safety in the prior art, and more specifically, to a storage system for electronic devices.

[0002] [Copyright and Trade Dress Notice] Part of the disclosure of this patent document includes material that is subject to copyright or trade dress protection. This patent document can indicate, and / or describe (i.e., show or describe or both), what is the owner's trade dress or what can become the trade dress. The owners of copyright and trade dress do not object to reproduction by anyone of the patent disclosure as it appears in the patent and trademark office patent file or records, but reserve all other copyright and trade dress rights.

[0003] [Claims of Priority] This application is filed in accordance with the Patent Cooperation Treaty and claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 650,354, entitled "Smart Safe Console System," filed on February 8, 2022, a continuation-in-part of U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 661,608, entitled "Smart Safe Console System," filed on May 2, 2022, and U.S. Patent Application No. 18 / 152,814, entitled "Smart Safe Console System," filed on January 11, 2023. The disclosures of these are hereby incorporated by reference into this specification.

Background Art

[0004] Electronic devices such as phones, tablets, and smart glasses are becoming increasingly common in modern times. Such devices can be used for various tasks including messaging, calling, social media, navigation, photography, and the like. Due to the very many functions provided on electronic devices, many people struggle to stop using the device during times when it is necessary, such as when operating a vehicle. Many vehicle accidents are the result of distraction caused by electronic devices, which is dangerous for road safety.

[0005] As a conventional attempt to solve this problem, it can be mentioned to prohibit all functions and communications to and from the electronic device. However, the electronic device provides various resources that can be useful to the user or operator. Furthermore, family or friends may worry if messages or phone calls do not get returned. Therefore, an appropriate solution is needed.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] The present disclosure provides a console system for use in a vehicle, comprising an assembly configured to be mounted within the vehicle and a safe body configured to protect an electronic device against physical access to the inside of the electronic device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] In one embodiment, the safe body includes a tray sized to hold an electronic device. In one embodiment, the safe body has an open state and a closed state. In one embodiment, the closed state restricts physical access to the electronic device within the safe body. In one embodiment, the open state allows physical access to the electronic device within the safe body. In one embodiment, the safe body is in electronic communication with the electronic device. In one embodiment, the safe body is configured to communicate with a vehicle. In one embodiment, the console system includes a charging device configured to charge the electronic device when the electronic device is protected within the safe body.

[0008] In one embodiment, the smart safe console system includes an interface screen visible from outside the safe body.

[0009] In one embodiment, the tray includes a spring mounted tray, a locking mechanism, and slots configured to receive the electronic device.

[0010] In one embodiment, when the safe body is in its open state, the slots are accessible to the user, the locking mechanism is disengaged, and when the safe body is in its closed state, the slots are inaccessible to the user and the locking mechanism is engaged.

[0011] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism is configured to engage when the safe body is transitioned from the open state to the closed state.

[0012] In one embodiment, the locking mechanism is configured to disengage when the safe body is transitioned from the closed state to the open state.

[0013] In one embodiment, the tray is configured to eject the electronic device when the safe body transitions from the closed state to the open state.

[0014] In one embodiment, the safe body is configured to prevent the vehicle from being used unless the electronic device is placed in the tray via the slot and the safe body is in the closed state.

[0015] In one embodiment, the electronic device is one or more electronic devices.

[0016] The claims should not necessarily be construed as limited to addressing any of the specific problems or deficiencies discussed above. To achieve the above, the present disclosure may be embodied in the forms shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it should be noted that the drawings are merely exemplary. Variations are also considered to be part of the present disclosure.

[0017] Embodiments can include any one or any combination of two or more of the features or embodiments described above.

[0018] These and other aspects, features, embodiments, and advantages may be expressed as a method, apparatus, system, component, program product, business method, and means or steps for performing functions, or any combination thereof.

[0019] Other features, aspects, embodiments, and advantages will become apparent from the present specification, drawings, and claims.

[0020] In the drawings, like elements are denoted by like reference numerals. The drawings are briefly described below.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021]

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0022] Here, the present disclosure will be more fully described below with reference to the accompanying drawings showing various exemplary embodiments. However, the present disclosure can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the exemplary embodiments described herein. Rather, these exemplary embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure will be thorough and complete and will fully convey the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention.

[0023] Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail. Such embodiments are provided for the purpose of explaining the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention in any way. In fact, those skilled in the art will be able to understand that various changes and modifications can be made after reading this specification and viewing these drawings.

[0024] For the purposes of the present disclosure of the present invention, unless specifically negated, the singular form includes the plural form and vice versa, the terms "and" and "or" are both construed as conjunctive and disjunctive, and the terms "any" and "all" both mean "any and all".

[0025] As described above, the embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a storage system for electronic devices, and more particularly, to a smart safe console system and method used to improve vehicle safety while utilizing functions on the electronic device.

[0026] Generally, the present invention includes a console that can be compatible with various electronic devices such as smartphones, smartwatches, and smart glasses. The system can be installed in the area between the operator and the passengers, typically in the "middle console" of any vehicle such as a train, boat, truck, or car, or even an aircraft such as an air taxi or a plane taxi. The area between the operator and the passengers can be the center console armrest in some embodiments. With the electronic device locked in the present invention, the operator can operate the vehicle with full attention, and the passengers do not need to worry about whether the operator is sending text on the social media site or otherwise distracted on the electronic device.

[0027] Referring more specifically to the drawings by reference numerals, FIGS. 1-4 show various views of a smart safe console system 100.

[0028] FIG. 1 shows a smart safe console system 100 during a "in use" state 50 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Here, the smart safe console system 100 can be beneficial for use by an operator 40 to improve vehicle safety with respect to the use of an electronic device 21. As shown, the smart safe console system 100 can include a smart safe console assembly 110 that includes a smart safe body 1 suitable for accommodating at least one electronic device 21. The electronic device 21 can be possibly isolated from handheld use by the smart safe body 1.

[0029] The smart safe console assembly 110 may also include an engage button 2 configured to control input and output communication (e.g., text messages) with the electronic device 21 when the vehicle 45 hosting the smart safe console system 100 is in use. The smart safe console assembly 110 may communicate with a provider and / or the vehicle 45 (i.e., the provider or the vehicle 45 or both) and may be configured to control the use of the electronic device 21 in relation to the operation of the vehicle 45.

[0030] The provider may provide a mobile phone service (e.g., a phone carrier), an Internet service (e.g., a wireless communication network) to the electronic device 21. Those skilled in the art will understand, upon reading this specification and understanding the techniques of communication with the electronic device 21 as described herein, that methods of suppression, operation, provision, and secure limitation will be understood by those skilled in the relevant art.

[0031] The vehicle 45 may host the smart safe console system 100 such that the smart safe console assembly 110 may be wired-connected to the vehicle 45's circuitry. The vehicle 45 may provide an energy source (e.g., a vehicle battery) to power the smart safe console system 100. Alternatively, the smart safe console assembly 110 may include a built-in battery to power the smart safe console system 100. The smart safe console system 100 may be powered by AC power distributed throughout the smart safe console assembly 110 by a DC power source (e.g., a vehicle battery). Other power supply means may be used. A wired-connected version and a non-wired-connected version may be used.

[0032] The smart safety console assembly 110 can communicate with sensors on the vehicle 45, and the sensors can sense at least one state of the vehicle 45. At least one state of the vehicle 45 can be measured via a proximity sensor, a motion sensor, a speed sensor, an audio sensor, an impact sensor, or a combination thereof. The sensors can provide one or more functions of the smart safety console assembly 110, such as sending an automatically generated message from the electronic device 21 to a desired recipient when an impact sensor is sensed. The impact sensor can indicate that an accident has occurred to the vehicle 45. The desired recipient can be a family member, a friend, or a third party (i.e., the police). The sensing means can be various.

[0033] The smart safety console system 100 can further include at least one cigarette socket 3 configured to communicate with the smart safety console assembly 110 and supply power to one or more external electrical accessories along an outer portion of the smart safety body 1.

[0034] Another aspect of the present invention can provide a software application (SW App) hosted on an electronic device 21. The software application can be downloaded onto the memory of the electronic device 21 and configured to register and facilitate communication between the electronic device 21 and the smart safe console assembly 110. In some embodiments, the registration includes a verification process between the electronic device 21 and the smart safe console assembly 110. Preferably, the smart safe console assembly 110 includes a verification button that facilitates the verification process when pressed. More preferably, the verification button enables the electronic device 21 to synchronize with the smart safe console assembly 110. In some embodiments, the registration process and / or the verification process (i.e., the registration process or the verification process or both) includes connecting one or both of the smart safe console assembly 110 and the electronic device 21 to a wireless internet hotspot. In an exemplary embodiment, the smart safe console assembly 110 broadcasts a WIFI (registered trademark) hotspot to which the electronic device 21 connects. Preferably, the hotspot is named with a name indicating its connection to the smart safe console assembly 110.In an exemplary embodiment, the registration process and / or the verification process includes one or more of: 1) pressing a verification button on the smart safe console assembly 110; 2) using a WIFI hotspot to send a message from the smart safe console assembly 110 to the electronic device 21, the message indicating that the registration process and / or the verification process has started, and preferably setting a time limit for a response and / or setting a verification code or message to be sent to the smart safe console assembly to complete the registration or verification (i.e., setting a time limit for a response and / or completing the registration or verification or both); 3) sending a verification code or message to the smart safe console assembly, whether digitally using the WIFI hotspot from the electronic device 21 or manually; and 4) pressing the verification button again to complete the registration and / or verification (i.e., registration or verification or both). In such an embodiment, the smart safe console assembly is unlocked to allow access after the registration process and / or the verification process is completed. In some embodiments, the use of a software application is required for proper functioning of the smart safe console assembly 110, and the software application is configured to run on a subscription-based system. When the smart safe console assembly 110 is used with two or more electronic devices 21, the user can select which electronic device to synchronize with the smart safe console assembly 110, either individually or simultaneously.

[0035] The operator 40 can register with the software application by means of a telephone number or other known identification means associated with the electronic device 21. The registration process may further include, but is not limited to, registering emergency contact telephone numbers, medical information, contact information of doctors or physicians associated with the user, and emergency contact information such as addresses. The software application can be linked to the mobile phone service so that the telephone number can be stored in a national database operated by the mobile phone service. The software application can communicate with the vehicle 45 hosting the smart safe console system 100 so that one or more operations (e.g., unlocking the vehicle 45, lowering the window, etc.) can be executed on the vehicle 45 from the software application. Further, the software application can enable the personalization of the functions provided in the smart safe console assembly 110. In some embodiments, the smart safe console system 100 communicates specific commands to the software application, such as commands to remind the user to update the software application when the safe is opened while the electronic device 21 is protected within the smart safe console assembly 110, and enables a signal including update material to communicate with the electronic device 21. In some embodiments, the update is performed when the electronic device 21 is charging in the smart safe console assembly 110. In other embodiments, the update can be performed in the smart safe console assembly 110 when the electronic device 21 is not charging.

[0036] According to one embodiment, the smart safe console system 100 can be configured as a kit 105. In particular, the smart safe console system 100 may further include a set of instructions 107. The instructions 107 can detail the functional relationships related to the structure of the smart safe console system 100 so that the smart safe console system 100 can be used, maintained, etc. in a preferred manner.

[0037] FIG. 2 shows the smart safe console system 100 of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As described above, the smart safe console system 100 may include a smart safe console assembly 110 including a smart safe body 1 suitable for accommodating at least one electronic device 21. The electronic device 21 may be capable of being isolated from handheld use by the smart safe body 1.

[0038] The smart safe console assembly 110 may also include an activation button 2 configured to control input and output communication with the electronic device 21 when the vehicle 45 hosting the smart safe console system 100 is in use. The smart safe console assembly 110 may communicate with a provider and the vehicle 45 and may be configured to control the use of the electronic device 21 in relation to the operation of the vehicle 45. The provider may provide one or more of a cellular phone service, an Internet service, and / or a vehicle navigation service to the electronic device 21 as provided through Apple (registered trademark) or Google (registered trademark) as part of Apple Maps (trademark) or Google Maps (trademark). The input and output communication may include transmitting a text message or a voice recorded message.

[0039] The smart safe console assembly 110 can further include at least one cigarette socket 3 configured to communicate with the smart safe console assembly 110 and supply power to one or more external electrical accessories along an outer portion of the smart safe body 1. The external electrical accessories can include a transmitter 7, a virtual assistant device 9, an air freshener 8, or combinations thereof. The at least one cigarette socket 3 can be communicatively connected to the smart safe console assembly 110 such that the external electrical accessories can communicate with the provider and the vehicle 45. Each of the external electrical accessories can be connected (with an adapter) to a rear protruding electrode that contacts a power-supplied electrical contact within the cigarette socket 3 or otherwise equipped.

[0040] In some embodiments, the smart safe body 1 is configured to have an open state 340 and a closed state 350. In some embodiments, the smart safe body 1 further includes a left wing 13 and a right wing 14 configured to move between the open state and the closed state. In other embodiments, alternative configurations of the smart safe body that enable such opening and closing are also envisioned, such as, for example, in a diaphragm configuration, a shutter mechanism that slides between the open state and the closed state either from top to bottom or from left to right, or any other equivalent means known in the art. When in the open state, the electronic device 21 can be inserted into or removed from the smart safe body 1. When in the closed state, the electronic device 21 can be separated from handheld use. The left wing 13 and the right wing 14 can include a liner 5. Further, the liner 5 can extend around the entire smart safe body 1. The liner 5 is composed of a soundproof material and is configured to attenuate sound from the electronic device 21 and prevent it from reaching the vehicle operator 40. Sound generated from the electronic device 21 can be distracting to the operator 40 unless attenuated by other means.

[0041] In some embodiments, the smart safe body 1 may include a tray 300. Preferably, the tray 300 is configured, sized, and / or shaped to hold the electronic device 21 (i.e., configured, sized, shaped, or any one or more of them are done). In some embodiments, the tray 300 is shaped to completely surround the electronic device 21. In such embodiments, the electronic device 21 can be inserted into the tray 300 through the slot 320. In other embodiments, the tray 300 does not completely surround the electronic device 21, and thus the electronic device 21 can be inserted into the tray 300 from the open side. In an exemplary embodiment, the tray 300 includes a concave flush piece shaped like a cassette player. In one embodiment, the tray 300 can hold the electronic device 21 in any direction including the horizontal and vertical directions. In a preferred embodiment, the tray 300 is configured to hold the electronic device 21 in a snug fit and / or includes a material that closely matches the shape of the electronic device 21 (i.e., configured to hold in a snug fit or includes a material that closely matches the shape of the electronic device 21, or both) or is lined with such a material. Such a material can include any flexible material suitable for such use, such as EPDM rubber. In an exemplary embodiment, the tray 300 includes a holder, strap, or restraint intended to fit and / or secure (i.e., fit or secure or both) the electronic device 21. In many embodiments, the tray 300 is configured to hold a wide variety of types of electronic devices 21 of all shapes and sizes. In some embodiments, the tray 300 can be made at least partially from a material that attenuates sound or shields electromagnetic radiation.

[0042] Preferably, when the electronic device 21 is disposed within the tray 300, the tray 300 is configured to charge the electronic device 21, more preferably using wireless charging technology. In many embodiments, the tray 300 is configured to interface with and / or communicate with (i.e., interface with, communicate with, or both) the electronic device 21 through wireless technology. However, in some embodiments, the tray 300 can include wired means for interfacing with or communicating with the electronic device 21, such as a USB cable, an audio cable, a power cable, and / or a power strip (i.e., a USB cable, an audio cable, a power cable, or a power strip, or two or more of them), or other such connection methods. In some embodiments, the tray 300 can be configured, sized, and / or shaped to hold and / or receive (i.e., hold, receive, or both) one or more electronic devices 21, such as a mobile phone, a tablet, a smartwatch, smart glasses, wireless earphones, any other smart device, or one or more of any combination of the foregoing. In some embodiments, the tray 300 can interact with other functions and / or components (i.e., other functions or components, or both) of the smart safe assembly 110, such that charging of the electronic device 21 only begins when the other components are activated. For example, the tray 300 may require synchronization with a software application or input of driver information, including emergency contact information, before charging is enabled.

[0043] In some embodiments, the surface of the smart safe body 1 and / or the tray 300 (i.e., the smart safe body 1 or the tray 300 or both) may include an interface screen 330. Such an interface screen 330 can display icons of useful applications for the user to use. Such an interface screen 330 is preferably touch-sensitive, but dedicated buttons or other equivalent UIs can be used. In some embodiments, the interface screen 330 displays icons of applications such as Waze, Google Maps, music applications, speech-to-text conversion applications, phone call applications, etc. Preferably, the smart safe body 1 and / or its components (i.e., the smart safe body 1 or its components or both) communicate with the vehicle 45 such that the application selected by the user on the interface screen 330 is displayed on the dashboard screen of the vehicle 45. In a more preferred embodiment, a plurality of applications selected by the user on the interface screen 330 can be simultaneously displayed on the dashboard screen of the vehicle 45 through, for example, a split-screen display. In some embodiments, any application or graphic display that can be visualized by the electronic device 21 can also be reproduced on the dashboard of the vehicle 34 through the use of the smart safe body 1, preferably through the use of Bluetooth® technology.

[0044] In some embodiments, tray 300 includes a spring mount, a pneumatic mount, or other such device 310 configured to displace tray 300. In an exemplary embodiment, spring mount 310 can displace slot 320 or other opening of tray 300 above the plane of the opening of smart safe body 1 when smart safe body 1 is in its open state 340. In some embodiments, spring mount 310 can displace such slot 320 or other opening of the tray so that when smart safe body 1 is in its closed state 350, slot 320 or other opening of the tray retracts into smart safe body 1, and thus such slot 320 or other opening of the tray is inaccessible to the user. In some embodiments, tray 300 includes a locking mechanism that holds tray 300 in such an inaccessible state when smart safe body 1 is in its closed state 350.

[0045] In some embodiments, the tray 300 uses "push push" technology and can function similarly to a device such as a cassette player that utilizes such technology. For example, the tray 300 can start in a state where the user can access the slot 320 or other openings of the tray 300, preferably in a state where the smart safe body 1 is in its open state 340. When the user places the electronic device 21 into the slot 320 or other openings of the tray 300 and presses the surface of the tray 300 and / or the surface of the smart safe body 1 (i.e., the surface of the tray 300 or the surface of the smart safe body 1 or both), the tray 300 retracts into the smart safe body 1 so that the user cannot access the slot 320 or other openings of the tray 300, thereby protecting the electronic device 21 from the user. Preferably, when the tray 300 is pressed by the user, the smart safe body 1 transitions to the closed state 350 and / or the locking mechanism engages (i.e., transitions to the closed state 350, or the locking mechanism engages, or both). In some embodiments, starting from a state where the tray 300 is retracted into the smart safe body 1 and / or a state where the user cannot access the slot 320 or other openings of the tray 300 (i.e., a state where the tray 300 is retracted into the smart safe body 1, or a state where the user cannot access the slot 320 or other openings of the tray 300, or both), the user can press the surface of the tray 300 and / or the smart safe body 1 (i.e., the tray 300 or the smart safe body 1 or both) one or more times to transition the tray 300 to a state where the user can access the slot 320 or other openings of the tray 300. Preferably, such pressing on the surface of the tray 300 and / or the surface of the smart safe body 1 disengages the locking mechanism and / or transitions the smart safe body 1 to the open state 340 (i.e., disengages the locking mechanism, or transitions the smart safe body 1 to the open state 340, or both).In some embodiments, the spring mount 310 is operative and / or configured (i.e., operative or configured or both) to displace the tray between a state where the slot 320 or other opening of the tray 300 is accessible and a state where the user has no access to the slot 320 or other opening of the tray 300. The spring mount 310 can also function or assist in transitioning the smart safe body 1 between an open state 340 and a closed state 350. In an exemplary embodiment, the smart safe body 1 is configured to prevent the user from using the vehicle 45 as long as the electronic device 21 is disposed within the tray 300, preferably the tray 300 is charging the electronic device 21, the tray 300 is retracted within the smart safe body 1, and / or the smart safe body 1 is not in its closed state 350 (i.e., as long as the tray 300 is charging the electronic device 21, the tray 300 is retracted within the smart safe body 1, or the smart safe body 1 is not in its closed state 350, or more than two of these).

[0046] In some embodiments, when the tray 300 transitions to a state where the user can access the slot 320 or other openings of the tray 300, and / or when the smart safe body 1 transitions from the closed state 350 to the open state 340 (i.e., when the tray 300 transitions to a state where the user can access the slot 320 or other openings of the tray 300, or when the smart safe body 1 transitions from the closed state 350 to the open state 340, or both), the tray is configured to eject the electronic device 21 from the tray, and the electronic device 21 is preferably stored within the tray 300 through the slot 320 or other openings of the tray 300. In some embodiments, when the electronic device 21 is stored within the tray 300 and / or when the electronic device 21 is charged by the tray 300, and the user cannot access the tray 300 and / or the smart safe body is in its closed state 350, the interface screen 330 is configured to display an indicator of such status. In a preferred embodiment, the interface screen 330 includes a dedicated indicator light configured to display a colored light such as green light to indicate such status, but in other embodiments, the screen of the interface screen 330 can alternatively display such an indicator. In some embodiments, the smart safe body 1 and / or the tray 300 (i.e., the smart safe body 1 or the tray 300 or both) may include a breathalyzer, and preferably, the breathalyzer can interact through an application on the smart safe body 1, the interface screen 330, and / or the electronic device 21 (i.e., the smart safe body 1, the interface screen 330, or the electronic device 21, or two or more of them). When the embodiment includes a breathalyzer, preferably, the smart safe console assembly 110 is configured to prevent the user from using the vehicle 45 unless the user blows into the breathalyzer and the breathalyzer indicates that the user has a blood alcohol level below a predetermined level.The requirements of such breath detectors can be combined with any other requirements disclosed herein regarding the use of the vehicle by the user.

[0047] In some embodiments, the smart safety body 1, and / or the liner 5, and / or the tray 300 (i.e., the smart safety body 1, the liner 5, or the tray 300, or two or more of them) may include at least one material having electromagnetic radiation shielding properties. Such electromagnetic shielding properties include, for example, the property of preventing wireless electronic communication with electronic devices disposed within the smart safety body. Thus, in some embodiments, the electromagnetic shielding properties are any one or more of the shielding of any radio frequencies utilized by electronic devices for communication, such as, but not limited to, the frequency bands associated with the following technical standards, namely, GSM, UMTS, LTE, 5G NR, and CDMA. Such frequency bands may include radio frequencies in the range of 800 MHz to 6000 MHz. In some embodiments, the electromagnetic shielding properties may include shielding any other number of frequencies associated with technologies used by electronic devices for communication, such as Bluetooth, wireless LAN, RFID, and other technologies. In some embodiments, the material having electromagnetic radiation shielding properties has the effectiveness obtained for the graphene-injected TPU material of the present invention of 5 DB to 10 DB.

[0048] In some embodiments, the smart safe body 1, and / or the liner 5, and / or the tray 300 may include at least one material having antiviral properties. Such antiviral properties may include, for example, killing and / or inactivating (i.e., killing or inactivating or both) any virus and / or virus particles (i.e., virus or virus particles or both) that come into contact with the inside or outside of the smart safe assembly, preferably in less than 60 minutes, more preferably such that at least 99.9999% of such virus is destroyed and / or inactivated (i.e., destroyed or inactivated or both). In such embodiments, the material can exhibit its antiviral properties by directly or indirectly inducing the degradation of viral genetic material. Examples of viruses that are killed and / or inactivated include SARS-CoV-2, any other virus associated with COVID-19, or any other virus. Exemplary embodiments of at least one material having electromagnetic shielding properties and / or at least one material having antiviral properties (i.e., at least one material having electromagnetic shielding properties, or at least one material having antiviral properties, or both) can be found in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 802,830, filed February 27, 2020, entitled "Urethane and Graphene Interior Trim Panel", which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Such materials can include any material suitable for constructing a smart safe body having antiviral or anti-corrosion properties, such as "Fortvi" plastic.

[0049] In some embodiments, the smart safe body 1 may include a wireless charging device configured to charge an electronic device when the electronic device is placed within the safe body. Such a wireless charging device can use any such wireless charging technology for charging an electronic device, such as wireless inductive charging, as is known in the art. In an exemplary embodiment, inductive charging technology standards such as Qi and / or PMA (i.e., Qi or PMA or both) can be used.

[0050] The smart safe body 1 may include an internal housing 4 defined by one or more walls, a left wing 13, and a right wing 14. The smart safe body 1 can be provided in various shapes and sizes to fit a vehicle 45. For example, the smart safe body 1 can include curved surfaces on one or more walls or can be substantially rectangular / square. The internal housing 4 can include a device configured to emit disinfecting radiation, such as ultraviolet light, into the interior of the safe body when the safe body is closed. In an exemplary embodiment, the internal housing 4 can include an ultraviolet germicidal device 12 configured to destroy and / or inactivate one or more of bacteria, viruses, yeast, or other pathogens on one or more surfaces housed within the smart safe body 1. In an exemplary embodiment, the disinfecting radiation emitted by the device is sufficient to destroy or inactivate SARS-CoV-2. The internal housing 4 can further include a sunglass holder 15, a wallet holder 16, a charging unit 17, a docking station 19, an electromagnetic field (EMF) battery 20, a colored LED light strip 10, or a combination thereof. The colored LED light strip 10 can be customized (i.e., the color of the light can be changed) via a SW app. Further, other features not shown in FIG. 2, such as a cooling fan, can be equipped in the internal housing as needed.

[0051] Figure 3 is a perspective view of the smart safe console system 100 of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As described above, the smart safe body 1 includes a left wing 13 and a right wing 14 configured to move between an open state and a closed state. When in the open state, the electronic device 21 can be inserted into or removed from the smart safe body 1. When in the closed state, the electronic device 21 can be separated from handheld use. The left wing 13 and the right wing 14 may be opened on opposite sides (as shown) or on the same side.

[0052] The smart safe body 1 may further include an internal housing 4 defined by one or more walls, a left wing 13, and a right wing 14. The internal housing 4 can include a charging unit 17 including an electrical connector 18 (e.g., a USB socket and / or plug (i.e., a socket or a plug or both)) for connecting the electronic device 21 to be charged, and a docking station 19 for holding the electronic device 21 in proximity to the charging unit 17 and the electrical connector 18. The internal housing 4 can further include an electromagnetic field (EMF) battery 20 disposed under the docking station 19 and configured to prevent radiation from being emitted from the electronic device 21 when housed within the smart safe body 1.

[0053] The smart safe assembly 110 can communicate with a control module configured to permit the vehicle 45 to stop operating when the electronic device 21 is not in a sensed state and to permit the operation of the vehicle 45 when the electronic device 21 is in a sensed state. The sensed state can be when the electronic device 21 is electrically connected to the charging unit 17 and the left wing 13 and the right wing 14 are in a closed state. The charging unit 17, and the left wing 13 and the right wing 14 can include at least one motion sensor coupled to the control module. The at least one motion sensor can be configured to detect the sensed state and transmit it to the control module when the sensed state is received. It should be noted that the electronic device 21 may need to be registered with the software application before receiving the sensed state so that all electronic devices 21 can be considered.

[0054] FIG. 4 is a front view of the smart safe console system 100 of FIG. 1 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The smart safe console assembly 110 can include at least one cigarette socket 3 configured to communicate with and power one or more external electrical accessories along an outer portion of the smart safe body 1. The external electrical accessories can include a transmitter 7, a virtual assistant device 9, and an air freshener 8. The air freshener 8 can be configured to emit one or more scents within the vehicle 45. The air freshener 8 can emit the scent continuously or periodically with a timer. Other features may be included.

[0055] In some embodiments, the virtual assistant can be fully hosted on the smart safe assembly or on the electronic device itself. However, in other embodiments, the virtual assistant can be hosted within a separate device. The virtual assistant device 9 can communicate with the electronic device 21 (which hosts the software application) and the activation button 2, and is configured to enable voice input communication and voice output communication between the virtual assistant device 9 and the electronic device 21 when a signal is received from the activation button 2. Commonly known virtual assistant devices 9 include AMAZON ECHO, ALEXA (registered trademark), and GOOGLE ASSISTANT, all of which can be pre-equipped with one or more speakers and microphones to enable voice input communication and voice output communication. Voice input communication and voice output communication can include asking for and receiving information ranging from weather forecasts to any encyclopedia question. Further, the operator 40 can personalize the voice input communication and voice output communication via the virtual assistant device 9 to provide a voice that sounds like a male, female, famous person, etc. The virtual assistant device 9 can include a cord and a suction cup 6 so that the virtual assistant device 9 can be fixed to the front windshield of the vehicle 45.

[0056] The virtual assistant can communicate with a navigation system (e.g., made by GARMIN technology) and / or an electronic device 21 that is hosted within the vehicle 45 (i.e., the navigation system or the electronic device 21 or both). In this way, the electronic device 21 can remain within the smart safety body 1 while the operator 40 uses this technology for navigation. The operator 40 of the vehicle 45 can activate the activation button 2 to provide voice input communication. The voice input communication can be a voice recording message processed on the virtual assistant to be transmitted to a desired recipient via a mobile phone service (e.g., based on a communication received by the navigation system, when the operator 40 cannot respond for driving and / or when the operator 40 can freely respond (i.e., when the operator 40 cannot respond, or when the operator 40 can freely respond, or both), notifying the desired recipient of an approximate time), purchasing one or more items via an Internet service, requesting a list of songs played on the radio, inputting personal information associated with the operator 40 stored in the electronic device 21, requesting a specific response based on the input personal information (i.e., bank account information), etc., and can provide the operator 40 with one or more services including but not limited to these. The voice output communication can provide the operator 40 with one or more services such as a reminder from a calendar on the electronic device 21, a reminder for an ongoing conversation on the electronic device 21, an automatic update for the electronic device 21, a response to the voice input communication, etc. The virtual assistant can provide the vehicle navigation service itself or other vehicle utilities, preferably through compatibility via a third-party application, although the use of proprietary software is also contemplated.Examples of such vehicle navigation applications or vehicle utility applications that are intended to be compatible with a virtual assistant include navigation systems provided by Apple Maps (trademark), Apple CarPlay (registered trademark), or Google Maps (trademark), MirrorLink (trademark), Drivemode (trademark), Cardo (trademark), Android Auto (trademark), Airbiquity (trademark) or Orderwerks (trademark), JBL Smartbase (trademark) related applications, Car dashdroid - Car infotainment (trademark), CARFAX Car Care (trademark), Cycle (registered trademark), Driver (trademark), Fully (trademark), HONK Partn (trademark), and any other ones, including any driving or navigation applications provided by Apple (registered trademark) or Google (registered trademark).

[0057] In some embodiments, the smart safe console system includes a microphone configured to capture the user's voice. Such voice capture can be used to interact with one or more of the functions of the smart safe console system via voice recognition software or other means. In some embodiments, the smart safe console system assembly is configured to communicate with the vehicle's audio system. Such communication with the vehicle's audio system can be used, among other functions, to communicate alerts or other information to the user or to provide audio functions of the smart safe console system such as a music player or hands - free phone answering. In an exemplary embodiment, the assembly is configured to provide a hands - free phone service by answering an incoming phone call by using the microphone, preferably via manual means such as pressing a button, more preferably via voice activation means, and even more preferably by automatically causing the assembly to answer the call, and by instructing communication with an electronic device via the audio system and the microphone.

[0058] The transmitter 7 can be configured to communicate with a controller and a processor. The software application can be programmed to include a switch that enables communication between the transmitter 7 and the controller and the processor. The switch may be manually activated via an interface with the software application, or may be activated when a navigation system equipped on the vehicle 45 receives a signal that a desired destination (e.g., home) is within a predetermined distance. The controller and the processor can be communicatively coupled to one or more functions within the desired destination such that one or more functions can be turned on / off. The one or more functions can include, but are not limited to, an alarm system, temperature setting, propane furnace, lighting, a sound system such as a stereo, and electric kitchen accessories. Those skilled in the art will understand that, upon reading this specification and understanding the technology of the transmitter described herein, a method of communicating with an object powered via the transmitter 7 will be understood by those skilled in the art in such a field.

[0059] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing a method 500 of using a smart safe console system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. In particular, the method 500 of using a smart safe console system may include one or more components or features of the smart safe console system 100 as described above. As shown, the method 500 of using a smart safe console system includes step 1 501 of providing a smart safe console assembly 110 including a smart safe body 1 suitable for accommodating at least one electronic device 21 and an activation button 2 configured to control input and output communication between the electronic device 21 when the vehicle 45 hosting the smart safe console system 100 is in use, wherein the smart safe body 1 further includes a left wing 13 and a right wing 14 configured to move between an open state and a closed state, and an internal housing 4 defined by one or more walls, the left wing 13, and the right wing 14, and the smart safe console assembly 110 may communicate with a provider and the vehicle 45 and may be configured to control the use of the electronic device 21 in relation to the operation of the vehicle 45; step 2 502 of registering the electronic device 21 with a software application that communicates with the smart safe assembly 110; step 3 503 of inserting the electronic device 21 into the smart safe body 1; step 4 504 of connecting the electronic device 21 to a charging unit 17 provided within the internal housing 4; step 5 505 of sensing that the electronic device 21 is connected to the charging unit 17 via at least one motion sensor and is registered with the software application; step 6 506 of closing the left wing 13 and the right wing 14; step 7 507 of sensing, via at least one motion sensor, that the left wing 13 and the right wing 14 are in a closed state; step 8 508 of operating the vehicle 45 (e.g., turning on the vehicle 45); and step 9 509 of activating the activation button 2 to control input and output communication with the electronic device 21.

[0060] Step 9 509 is an optional step and it should be noted that it is not implemented in all cases. Any step of the usage method 500 is shown using a dotted line in FIG. 5 to distinguish it from other steps of the usage method 500. It should also be noted that the steps described in the usage method can be executed in many different orders according to the user's preference. The use of "step of" should not be construed as "step for" in the claims of this specification and is not intended to exercise the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112(f). Under appropriate circumstances, other methods of using the smart safe console system 100 (note: for example, different step orders within the above list, including or excluding certain maintenance steps, deleting or adding certain steps, etc.) are taught herein considering issues such as design preference, user preference, marketing preference, cost, structural requirements, available materials, technological advancements, etc.

[0061] In some embodiments, the smart safe console system can be a pre-market product for vehicles. In some embodiments, the smart safe console system can be a post-market product for vehicles. In many embodiments, the smart safe console system can be made in many different dimensions and / or shapes (i.e., dimensions or shape or both) to appropriately fit many different shapes, sizes, and manufacturers of various vehicles and various middle consoles or center armrests within such vehicles, or its dimensions and / or shape can be adjustable.

[0062] In some embodiments, referring to FIGS. 6-11, the smart safe console system 100 preferably includes an override apparatus 200 configured to allow a user to override the control module and permit the operation of the vehicle 45 when the electronic device 21 is not protected within the safe body 1, or regardless of whether the electronic device 21 is protected within the safe body 1. In some embodiments, the override apparatus 200 can be configured to request the user to input information used to verify the user's identity before the override apparatus 200 overrides the control module. In some embodiments, referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the override apparatus 200 may be configured to include a function of notifying (250) an external user such as an administrator that an override of the control module is requested, and not overriding the control module until such a request is permitted (260) by the external user. In some embodiments, the override apparatus 200 directly overrides the control module. In some embodiments, the override apparatus 200 can provide the user with manual means for overriding the control module, such as a dedicated key 270 or one or more other types of tools. In a preferred embodiment, the manual means for overriding the control module includes a dedicated key 270, and the smart safe assembly 110 includes a keyhole 210 corresponding to the dedicated key 270. In an exemplary embodiment, the keyhole 210 on the smart safe assembly is hidden behind the override button, and the override button is configured to open to expose the keyhole 210 when pressed. In some embodiments, when the override button is pressed, the override apparatus 200 is activated, and the keyhole 210 is exposed only after the override apparatus 200 verifies the user's identity. In some embodiments, the dedicated key / override key 270 is stored in a compartment and provided to the user only after the override apparatus 200 verifies the user's identity.In some embodiments, additional steps are required to enable the override device 200 to either override the control module or expose the override key 270. For example, the user is required to use a dedicated tool 220, such as a screwdriver, to remove certain screws and / or caps (i.e., screws or caps or both) 230 located on the smart safe assembly 110 and / or inside the center console armrest (i.e., located on the smart safe assembly 110, or inside the center console armrest, or both). In some embodiments, the override device 200 overrides the control module only when the override key 270 is inserted into and rotated in the keyhole 210. In some embodiments, the smart safe console system 100 includes an emergency button that, when pressed for a predetermined amount of time, preferably notifies the authorities, such as the police, of the vehicle's location, along with a request for assistance.

[0063] In some embodiments, the override device 200 can include a single device, or multiple devices electronically linked to each other via wired or wireless means. In some embodiments, referring to FIG. 6, the override device 200 includes a handheld device 260 having buttons to facilitate the user. In one embodiment, the handheld device 260 preferably stores an override key 270 within an internal compartment, and more preferably, the key 270 is exposed only when an external user such as an administrator is notified (240) and permission (250) is granted to override the smart safe console system. In one embodiment, the key 270 is exposed by sliding the key 270 out of the internal compartment or displacing it in other ways, for example, via a deployment hinge mechanism similar to a side-opening switch blade. In one embodiment, the handheld device 260 and / or the override device 200 (i.e., the handheld device 260 or the override device 200 or both of them) can include an override notification system that notifies the user, for example, by means of colored light or a sound system when an administrator or external user accepts a request to override the smart safe console system 100. For example, the colored light can change from red to green in response to the administrator's approval of the request to override the smart safe console system 100, or the integrated audio system can play notification noises such as chimes, ringings, beeps, songs, voices, or other sounds customizable by the user. Other ways of notifying the user of a request to override the smart safe console system 100 are also contemplated, such as a vibration system disposed on the override device 200 and / or the handheld device 260. In one embodiment, the override key 270 can be exposed only upon further action by the user, such as pressing an additional designated button on the handheld device 260, after an administrator or external user has granted permission (250) to override the smart safe console system.In some embodiments, referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, an administrator may be notified (240) through the use of the smart safe console system 100 and an application linked to the user's electronic device 21. In some embodiments, the override device 200 may comprise a digital screen and interface, such as a touch screen, to enable a user to override the smart safe console system 100 using only the override device 200. The digital screen and interface of the override device 200 may also function to notify the user that a request to override the smart safe console system has been permitted (250) by an external user or administrator.

[0064] In some embodiments, referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, the keyhole 210 of the override key 270 includes a plurality of keyholes. Preferably, when rotated by inserting the override key 270, it includes a first keyhole 211 that opens the safe body of the smart safe console system, and a second keyhole 212 that enables overriding of the smart safe console system 100 and enables operation of the vehicle 45 when rotated by inserting the override key 270. In some embodiments, each of the one or more keyholes 210 is hidden behind a cap or screw 230. As a result, a dedicated tool 220 provided in the override device, such as a hex key, an Allen wrench, or a screwdriver, is required to remove the cap or screw 230 and expose the one or more keyholes 210. In an exemplary embodiment, the user removes the first cap 231 using the dedicated tool 220, inserts the override key 270 into the first keyhole 211 to open the safe body, and then must remove the second cap 232 using the dedicated tool 220 and insert the override key 270 into the second keyhole 212 to override the smart safe console system 100 and operate the vehicle 45. Preferably, the first cap 231 and the first keyhole 211 can be located anywhere on the smart safe body 1, while the second cap 232 and the second keyhole 212 are located towards the front inside the smart safe body 1. In an exemplary embodiment, when the user inserts the override key 270 into the second keyhole 212 and rotates it, an additional notification requesting override of the smart safe console system 100 is sent to an external user or an administrator. In this exemplary embodiment, the vehicle 45 can be operated and the smart safe console system 100 can be overridden only when the external user or the administrator permits this request.In an exemplary embodiment, the user must override the smart safety console system 100, start the operation of vehicle 45, and / or start the engine of the vehicle (i.e., override the smart safety console system 100, start the operation of vehicle 45, start the engine of the vehicle, or do two or more of these) by simultaneously inserting override key 270 into the second keyhole 212 while pressing the start button of the vehicle and preferably rotating it clockwise. In some embodiments, override key 270 can be rotated in either direction when inserted into keyhole 210.

[0065] In some embodiments, when activated, the override device 200 and / or the handheld device 260 may include an emergency notification button that alerts an emergency system such as the police by providing, for example, identification information about the user, information about the vehicle 45, and / or information about the vehicle's location (i.e., identification information about the user, information about the vehicle 45, or information about the vehicle's location, or two or more of them). In some embodiments, when an external user or administrator permits (250) a request to override the smart safe console system 100, the granted permission to override the smart safe console system 100 has a predetermined duration, such as 24 hours, which may be customizable by the external user or administrator. After the duration of the granted permission has elapsed, the user must request permission from the external user or administrator to override the smart safe console system 100 again before being able to override the smart safe console system 100 and operate the vehicle 45. In one embodiment, the override device 200 and / or the handheld device 260 is waterproof and / or water-resistant (i.e., waterproof or water-resistant or both). In one embodiment, the override key 270 may also be able to open one or more of the vehicle 45's doors or trunk, but preferably may not be able to operate the vehicle 45 independently. In some embodiments, the override device 200 includes a case configured to store one or more of the handheld device 260 and / or the dedicated tool 220. In some embodiments, the override key 270, the override device 200, and / or the handheld device 260 may include some features of a remote start system when used in conjunction with the smart safe console system 100 when using the override device 200 to override the smart safe console system 100, operate the vehicle 45, and / or start the vehicle 45's engine.In an exemplary embodiment, when the smart safe console system 100 and / or the override device 200 is removed by a user using a dedicated tool 220, a cap 230 is provided that exposes a keyhole 210 for use with an override key 270 when the override key 270 is inserted into and turned in the keyhole 210 and a verification button of the override device 200 and / or the handheld device 260 is pressed to start the engine of the vehicle 45.

[0066] When an element is referred to above as being "on" another element, it is understood that the element can be directly on the other element or intervening elements can be present therebetween. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly on" another element, there are no intervening elements.

[0067] Furthermore, any component or material can be formed from the same structurally continuous parts or can be separately manufactured and connected.

[0068] Ordinal terms such as "first," "second," and "third" are used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections (i.e., an element, component, region, layer, or section, or two or more of them), but it should be further understood that these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, and / or section from another element, component, region, layer, and / or section. Thus, a "first element," "first component," "first region," "first layer," and / or "first section" (i.e., a "first element," "first component," "first region," "first layer," or "first section," or two or more of them) discussed below can be referred to as a second element, second component, second region, second layer, and / or second section without departing from the teachings herein.

[0069] Features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment, and such variations fall within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. Embodiments can also include one or any combination of two or more of the above-described features or embodiments.

[0070] Spatially relative terms such as "directly below," "below," "lower," "above," "upper," etc. are used herein to facilitate the description of the relationship of one element or feature to another element or feature (which may be plural) as shown in the figures. It is understood that spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation shown in the figures. For example, if the device in the figure is turned over, an element described as "below" or "directly below" another element or feature will be oriented "above" the other element or feature. Thus, the exemplary term "below" can encompass both upward and downward orientations. The device can be oriented differently (rotated 90 degrees or other orientations), and the spatially relative descriptive terms used herein are to be interpreted accordingly.

[0071] Exemplary embodiments are described herein with reference to cross-sectional views that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments. Accordingly, variations from the shapes of the figures, for example, manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances (i.e., manufacturing techniques or tolerances), are to be expected. Thus, the exemplary embodiments described herein should not be construed as limited to the particular shapes of regions as shown herein, but should include, for example, shape deviations resulting from manufacturing. For example, a region illustrated or described as flat can typically have rough and / or non-linear (i.e., rough or non-linear or both) features. Further, the sharp angles shown can be rounded. Thus, the regions shown in the figures are essentially schematic and their shapes are not intended to indicate the exact shape of the regions nor are they intended to limit the scope of the claims.

[0072] Although the present invention has been described in connection with what are presently considered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent configurations included within the scope of the appended claims. Specific terms are used in this specification, but they are used only in a general and illustrative sense and not for the purpose of limitation.

[0073] This specification discloses the invention, including the best mode, using examples, and enables those skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any device or system and performing any incorporated method. The patentable scope of the invention is defined in the claims and can include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims or if they include equivalent structural elements that do not differ substantially from the literal language of the claims.

[0074] The claims should not necessarily be construed as limited to addressing any of the particular problems or deficiencies discussed above. To achieve the above, the present disclosure may be embodied in the form shown in the accompanying drawings. However, it should be noted that the drawings are merely illustrative. Variations are also considered to be a part of the present disclosure.

[0075] The present disclosure is illustrated throughout the described description. It should be understood that numerous variations are possible while following the concept of the invention. Such variations are also considered to be a part of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. An assembly configured to be mounted inside a vehicle, A safe body configured to protect an electronic device against physical access to the inside, wherein the safe body comprises a tray sized to hold the electronic device, the safe body has an open state and a closed state, the closed state restricts physical access to the electronic device within the safe body, the open state enables physical access to the electronic device within the safe body, the safe body is in electronic communication with the electronic device, and the safe body is configured to communicate with the vehicle, a safe body; A charging device configured to charge the electronic device when the electronic device is protected within the safe body A console system for use in a vehicle, comprising.

2. The smart safe console system according to claim 1, further comprising an interface screen visible from outside the safe body.

3. The smart safe console system according to claim 1, wherein the tray comprises a spring-mounted tray, a locking mechanism, and a slot configured to receive the electronic device.

4. When the safe body is in its open state, the slot is accessible to the user and the locking mechanism is disengaged; when the safe body is in its closed state, the slot is inaccessible to the user and the locking mechanism is engaged. The smart safe console system according to claim 3.

5. The smart safe console system according to claim 4, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to engage when the safe body is shifted from the open state to the closed state.

6. The smart safe console system according to claim 4, wherein the locking mechanism is configured to disengage when the safe body is shifted from the closed state to the open state.

7. The smart safe console system according to claim 6, wherein the tray is configured to eject the electronic device when the safe body is shifted from the closed state to the open state.

8. The smart safe console system according to claim 1, wherein the safe body is configured to prevent the vehicle from being used unless the electronic device is disposed in the tray through the slot and the safe body is not in the closed state.

9. The smart safe console system according to claim 1, wherein the electronic device is one or more electronic devices.

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