Smart safe console system and method

Abstract

To provide a smart safe console system and a method used for improving safety while using a function of an electronic device.SOLUTION: This smart safe console system comprises a smart safe console assembly including a smart safe body suitable for storage and a button configured to control input / output communication with an electronic device when a vehicle which is a host of the smart safe console system is used. The smart safe console system is useful for improving safety of the vehicle regarding the use of the electronic device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application is related to and claims priority to, and is a continuation-in-part of, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16 / 277,990, filed February 15, 2019, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The present invention relates generally to the field of vehicle safety in the art, and more particularly to storage systems for electronic devices. [Background technology]

[0003] The following contains information that may be useful in understanding the present disclosure. No admission is made that any of the information provided is prior art or material to the presently described or claimed invention, or that any publication or document specifically or implicitly referenced is prior art.

[0004] Electronic devices such as phones, tablets, and smart glasses are becoming increasingly common. Such devices can be used for a variety of tasks, including messaging, phone conversations, social media, navigation, and photography. Because electronic devices offer so many functions, many people struggle to stop using them when they should not, such as while operating a vehicle. Many vehicle accidents are due to distractions caused by electronic devices, which are a safety hazard on public roads.

[0005] Previous attempts to solve this problem include disabling all functionality and communication with the electronic device. However, electronic devices provide various resources that can be useful to the driver or operator. Furthermore, failure to respond to messages or phone calls can cause anxiety to family or friends. Therefore, an appropriate solution is needed.

[0006] U.S. Patent No. 8,412,123 to Virginia E. Foster relates to a radiopaque container for a communication device on a vehicle. The radiopaque container for a communication device on a vehicle described has a bottom joined to four walls, a pivoting lid that seals on the walls, a connector from the container to the vehicle, a locking mechanism that keeps the lid closed, and a circuit between the locking mechanism and the vehicle that engages the locking mechanism only when the vehicle's electrical system is on. In an emergency, the contents within the container remain available to the vehicle operator, but the container only opens when the vehicle's power is turned off. The container forms a Faraday cage around the contents, preventing equipment placed therein from activating and distracting the vehicle operator. In an alternative embodiment, the container includes a shelf therein. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 8,412,123 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] In consideration of the aforementioned drawbacks inherent in known technologies, the present disclosure provides a novel device for controlling the use of personal electronic devices while driving. The smart safe console system disclosed herein includes an assembly mounted on a vehicle. The assembly has a safe body that protects electronic devices, such as personal electronic devices (e.g., cell phones), from physical access while the vehicle is in use, but provides limited access to the electronic device's functions while driving. In some embodiments, the assembly communicates with a (cell phone) provider and the vehicle. In some embodiments, the provider provides internet service. Some functions of the smart safe console system are implemented using sensors that receive information about the vehicle. These sensors can include proximity sensors, motion sensors, speed sensors, audio and volume sensors, and impact sensors, among other sensors. Some embodiments of the assembly provide power or data communication to electrical accessories, such as external electrical accessories. These accessories can include transmitters configured to communicate with the controller and processor. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In some embodiments, the button initiates a state that allows a user to interact with the electronic device while operating the vehicle, while protecting the device from physical access by the driver or another user. Access to the service is by accessing a virtual assistant on the assembly, device, or accessory device. In some embodiments, the electrical accessory emits an air freshener.

[0010] In some embodiments, a software application running on the electronic device executes instructions that cause the device to register and communicate with the assemblies.

[0011] Some versions of the safe body are configured to include sound-proofing materials that can reduce or prevent sounds from the electronic device from reaching the user. The safe body may also include a charger or docking station for the electronic device.

[0012] Certain versions use a control module that selectively prevents or allows vehicle operation depending on whether an electronic device is secured within the smart safe. For example, the presence of a registered smartphone can be used by the assembly to signal the control module to remain "off" until the smartphone is secured within the smart safe. Some versions include an ultraviolet sterilizer or light inside the smart safe to provide the added feature of sterilizing the electronic device while it is secured within the smart safe.

[0013] In some embodiments, a method for securing a device using a system to improve vehicle safety prevents the vehicle from moving or starting if the electronic device is not properly secured within a smart safe. Some of these embodiments allow access to services provided by the electronic device even while operating the vehicle through an interface that does not compromise the safety of vehicle occupants. For example, a virtual assistant device may be used to provide auditory control of electronic device services during vehicle operation.

[0014] For purposes of summarizing the invention, certain aspects, advantages, and novel features of the invention have been described. It is to be understood that not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordance with any one particular embodiment of the invention. Thus, the invention may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one or group of taught advantages without necessarily achieving other advantages that may be taught or suggested. Features of the invention that are believed to be novel will be particularly pointed out and distinctly claimed in the concluding portion of this specification. These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the invention will become better understood with reference to the following drawings and detailed description.

[0015] The figures accompanying the written portion of this specification illustrate embodiments and methods of use of the present disclosure, smart safe console systems and methods that can be constructed and operated in accordance with the teachings of the present disclosure. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a smart safe console system during an "in use" state, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the smart safe console system of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the smart safe console system of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a front view of the smart safe console system of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] 1 is a flow chart illustrating a method of using a smart safe console system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] Various embodiments of the present invention are described in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements, and in which:

[0018] As noted above, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to storage systems for electronic devices, and more particularly to smart safe console systems and methods used to enhance safety while utilizing the functionality of electronic devices.

[0019] 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 any vehicle, such as a train, boat, truck, or automobile, in an area between the operator and passengers, commonly referred to as the "middle console." With electronic devices locked within the safe of the present invention, the vehicle operator can pay full attention to operation, and passengers do not need to worry about whether the operator is texting, browsing social media sites, or otherwise distracted on the electronic device. In some versions, the smart safe allows the driver to use typical hands-free technology provided by the phone manufacturer, the automobile manufacturer, or both. In these or other embodiments, the smart safe can have a screen or other control for accessing the hands-free feature while the phone is safed. A related feature allows parents to allow children using the vehicle to use the hands-free feature (while the phone is locked) only to talk to the parent or someone designated by the parent.

[0020] 1-4 show various views of a smart safe console system 100. FIG. 1 illustrates the smart safe console system 100 during an "in use" state 50, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Here, the smart safe console system 100 may be used by an operator 40 to improve vehicle safety in connection with the use of an electronic device 21. As shown, the smart safe console system 100 may include a smart safe console assembly 110 including a smart safe body 1 suitable for housing the electronic device 21. The smart safe body 1 may isolate the electronic device 21 from handheld use. For example, the system 100 may lock the electronic device 21 within the system 100 while the vehicle 45 is operating.

[0021] The smart safe console assembly 110 may also include buttons 2 configured to control input and output communications (e.g., text messages) to and from 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 control the use of the electronic device 21 in connection with operating the vehicle 45. The provider may provide telephone or internet service to the electronic device 21.

[0022] The vehicle 45 can host the smart safe console system 100 such that the smart safe console assembly 110 has a hardwired connection to the vehicle 45 and, in some embodiments, is fixedly, permanently, or semi-permanently attached to the vehicle 45. The vehicle 45 can provide power to the smart safe console system 100. Alternatively, the smart safe console assembly 110 can include a battery for powering the smart safe console system 100. The smart safe console system 100 can use AC or DC power distributed throughout the smart safe console assembly 110 by a power source (e.g., a vehicle battery). Other power supply means may be used, and hardwired and hardwired versions may be used.

[0023] The smart safe console assembly 110 may be electrically connected to sensors that detect conditions of the vehicle 45. Proximity sensors, motion sensors, speed sensors, audio sensors, impact sensors, or any combination of sensors may monitor the condition of the vehicle 45. These sensors may provide one or more functions for the smart safe console assembly 110, such as sending an automatically generated message from the electronic device 21 to a desired message recipient when an impact sensor triggers. For example, the impact sensor may indicate that the vehicle 45 has experienced a collision. The desired message recipient may be a family member, friend, or third party (i.e., the police). The means of detection may vary. The smart safe console system 100 may further include a power connector 3, such as a cigarette lighter socket, along an exterior portion of the smart safe body 1 for communicating with and powering one or more external electrical accessories from the smart safe console assembly 110.

[0024] Another aspect of the present invention provides for the electronic device 21 to host or execute a software application (app). The app can register the electronic device 21 with the smart safe console assembly 110 and facilitate communication between the electronic device 21 and the smart safe console assembly 110. An operator can register the app by a phone number or other known means of identification associated with the electronic device 21. The app can link to a telephone service to store the phone number in a national database operated by the telephone service. The app can communicate with the vehicle 45 hosting the smart safe console system 100 to enable the app to perform one or more vehicle functions (e.g., unlocking the vehicle, rolling windows, etc.). Additionally, the app can enable personalization of functionality with the smart safe console assembly 110. In some embodiments, the smart safe console system 100 communicates a specific signal to the app when the safe is opened, such as a signal to remind the user to update the app, allowing a signal containing update material to be forwarded to the electronic device 21 despite being secured within the smart safe console assembly 110. In some embodiments, the update occurs when the electronic device 21 is charging within the smart safe console assembly 110. In other embodiments, the update occurs at the smart safe console assembly 110 when the electronic device 21 is not charging. According to one embodiment, the smart safe console system 100 may be configured as a kit 105 and may further include a set of instructions 107.

[0025] FIG. 2 illustrates the smart safe console system 100 of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As described above, the smart safe console system 100 can include a smart safe console assembly 110 including a smart safe body 1 suitable for housing an external electrical accessory 21. The inputs and outputs as described herein can include transmitting text or voice-recorded messages. The external electrical accessories can include a transmitter 7, a virtual assistant device 9, an air freshener emitter 8, or a combination thereof. A power connector 3 can be communicatively connected to the smart safe console assembly 110 such that the external electrical accessories communicate with a provider and a vehicle 45. Each of the external electrical accessories can connect with an adapter or otherwise connect to powered electrical contacts in the power connector 3.

[0026] The smart safe body 1 may also include 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, a user may insert or remove the electronic device 21 from the smart safe body 1. When in the closed state, the smart safe body 1 can effectively isolate the electronic device 21 from handheld use. The left wing 13 and the right wing 14 may include a liner 5. Furthermore, the liner 5 may extend throughout the entire smart safe body 1. The liner 5 may include sound-proofing material that attenuates and prevents sound from the electronic device 21 from reaching the operator 40 of the vehicle 45. Sound generated from the electronic device 21 may distract the operator 40 unless specifically attenuated.

[0027] The smart safe body 1 may include an interior housing 4 having one or more walls, a left wing 13, and a right wing 14. The smart safe body 1 may have various shapes and sizes to fit the vehicle 45. For example, the smart safe body 1 may include curved surfaces on one or more walls or may be substantially 3D rectangular or square. The interior housing 4 may include an ultraviolet sterilization device 12 for destroying bacteria on one or more surfaces contained within the smart safe body 1. The interior housing 4 may further include a sunglasses holder 15, a wallet holder 16, a charging unit 17, an electrical connector 18 (USPQ Electric) docking station 19, a battery 20, a colored LED light strip 10, or any combination thereof. The colored LED light strip 10 may be customized (i.e., change the light color) via an app. Additionally, the interior housing may include other items not shown in FIG. 2 , such as a cooling fan.

[0028] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the smart safe console system 100 of FIG. 1, in which the left wing 13 and right wing 14 may open to either side (as shown) or to the same side.

[0029] The smart safe assembly 110 can communicate with a control module that prevents operation of the vehicle 45 when the assembly 110 does not "detect" a connection with the electronic device 21 and allows operation of the vehicle 45 when the assembly 110 detects a connection with the electronic device 21. The assembly 110 can also monitor whether the smart safe body 1 is open or closed. A motion sensor can detect a state, such as a connected state or an open or closed state (discussed above), and send information about the state to the control module. The assembly 110 or app can require the electronic device 21 to register with the app before responding to a state. In some embodiments, this allows for accounting for all electronic devices 21.

[0030] FIG. 4 is a front view of the smart safe console system 100 of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] The virtual assistant device 9 may communicate with the electronic device 21 (hosting the app) and the button 2 and may be configured to enable voice input and voice output communication between the virtual assistant device 9 and the electronic device 21 when a signal is received from the button 2. Commonly known virtual assistant devices 9 include AMAZONECHO, ALEXA, and GOOGLE ASSISTANT, all of which may be pre-equipped with one or more speakers and microphones to enable voice input and voice output communication. Voice input and voice output communication may include requesting and receiving information ranging from weather forecasts to any encyclopedia question. Additionally, the operator 40 may personalize the voice input and voice output communication through the virtual assistant device 9 to provide voices such as male, female, celebrity, etc. The virtual assistant device 9 may include a cord and suction cup 6 so that the virtual assistant device 9 can be secured to the windshield of the vehicle 45.

[0032] The virtual assistant device 9 can communicate with a navigation system (e.g., GARMIN technology) hosted on the vehicle 45 or the electronic device 21. By connecting the virtual assistant device 9, the electronic device 21 can be left inside the smart safe body 1 while the operator 40 uses this navigation technology. The operator 40 can engage the button 2 to provide voice input. The voice input can provide one or more services to the operator 40, such as, but not limited to, a voice-recorded message that is processed on the virtual assistant device 9 for transmission to a desired recipient via a telephone service (e.g., notifying a desired recipient if the operator 40 is unable to respond due to driving, or sending an approximate time when the operator 40 is free to respond based on information received by the navigation system), purchasing one or more items via an Internet service, requesting a list of songs to play on the radio, entering personal information related to the operator 40 to be stored on the electronic device 21, or requesting specific answers based on personal information (e.g., bank account information). The audio output may provide one or more services to the operator 40, such as reminders from the calendar of the electronic device 21, reminders of ongoing conversations on the electronic device 21, automatic updates to the electronic device 21, responses to audio input, etc.

[0033] The transmitter 7 can communicate with the controller and processor. The app may include a switch that enables communication between the transmitter 7 and the controller and processor. The operator 40 can manually activate the switch through an interface with the app, or the navigation system can activate the switch by sending a signal that a desired destination (e.g., home) is less than a predetermined distance. The controller and processor can communicatively control one or more features within the desired destination to turn those features on or off. These features can include control of an alarm system, temperature, propane furnace, lighting system, sound system, and kitchen accessories, among other features.

[0034] 5 is a flow chart illustrating a method 500 for using a smart safe console system according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In particular, the method 500 for using the 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 for using the smart safe console system may include step 501 of providing a smart safe console assembly 110 (as described above) including a smart safe body 1, step 502 of registering an electronic device 21 with an app that communicates with the smart safe assembly 110, step 503 of inserting the electronic device 21 into the smart safe body 1, step 504 of connecting the electronic device 21 to a charging unit 17, step 505 of detecting that the electronic device 21 is connected to the charging unit 17, step 506 of closing the smart safe body 1, step 507 of detecting that the smart safe body 1 is closed, step 508 of enabling the vehicle 45 to be turned on, and step 509 of initializing a button 2 for controlling input and output communication to and from the electronic device 21.

[0035] Note that the ninth step 509 is an optional step and may not be performed in all cases. Optional steps in the method of use 500 are indicated in FIG. 5 using dotted lines to distinguish them from the other steps in the method of use 500. Note also that the steps described in the method of use can be performed in many different orders depending on user preference. The use of "step of" should not be construed as "step for" in the claims and is not intended to invoke the provisions of 35 U.S.C. § 112(f). Note also that, under appropriate circumstances, other methods of using the smart safe console system 100 (e.g., a different order of steps in the above list, the removal or addition of certain steps to include or exclude certain maintenance steps, etc.) are taught, taking into account issues such as design preference, user preference, marketing preference, cost, construction requirements, available materials, and technological advances.

[0036] The described embodiments of the invention are illustrative and may readily be construed as encompassing numerous modifications, variations, and rearrangements to achieve substantially equivalent results, all of which are intended to be encompassed within the spirit and scope of the invention. Furthermore, the purpose of the foregoing summary is to enable the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the public at large, particularly those skilled in the art, scientists, engineers, and practitioners unfamiliar with patent or legal terminology or language, to quickly determine the nature and substance of the technical disclosure of the present application from a cursory inspection. In order to maintain the disclosure of the present application as originally filed, the contents of claims 1 to 20 as originally filed are added below. (Claim 1) 1. A smart safe console system including an assembly mounted on a vehicle, Safebody protects electronic devices from physical access while the vehicle is in use; buttons for controlling input to and output from said electronic device; Including, The assembly communicates with a provider and the vehicle. (Claim 2) The smart safe console system of claim 1 , wherein the provider provides telephone or internet service. (Claim 3) 10. The smart safe console system of claim 1, wherein the assembly communicates with vehicle sensors to receive status information regarding the vehicle. (Claim 4) 4. The smart safe console system of claim 3, wherein the vehicle sensor is any one or any combination of a proximity sensor, a motion sensor, a speed sensor, an audio sensor, a volume sensor, or an impact sensor. (Claim 5) 10. The smart safe console system of claim 1, further comprising a port for communicating with or powering the at least one electrical accessory. (Claim 6) The smart safe console system of claim 5 , wherein the accessory includes a transmitter configured to communicate with the controller and processor. (Claim 7) 6. The smart safe console system of claim 5, wherein the button initiates communication with a virtual assistant for an electrical accessory or device. (Claim 8) 6. The smart safe console system of claim 5, wherein at least one electrical accessory emits an air freshener. (Claim 9) The smart safe console system of claim 1 , wherein the electronic device executes software application instructions that cause the device to register and communicate with the assembly. (Claim 10) 10. The smart safe console system of claim 1, wherein the safe body opens and closes, and when closed, the safe body protects the electronic device from physical access. (Claim 11) 11. The smart safe console system of claim 10, wherein the safe body includes sound-deadening material. (Claim 11A) 12. The smart safe counsel system of claim 11, wherein the soundproofing material attenuates or blocks sounds from an electronic device from reaching the user. (Claim 13) 13. The smart safe console system of claim 12, wherein the safe body has a charging unit or docking station for the electronic device. (Claim 15) 15. The smart safe console system of claim 14, further comprising a control module that enables vehicle operation when the electronic device is secured. (Claim 16) 16. The smart safe console system of claim 15, wherein the assembly further includes a sensor for detecting and communicating a signal that the electronic device is secured to the control module. (Claim 17) 1. A smart safe console system including an assembly mounted on a vehicle, Safebody protects electronic devices from physical access while the vehicle is in use; a transmitter in communication with the controller and the processor; a port for communicating with or powering one or more electrical accessories; buttons for controlling input to and output from said electronic device; Including, the assembly is in communication with a provider and the vehicle; the provider provides telephone or internet service to the electronic device; the assembly is in communication with a vehicle sensor, the vehicle sensor being any one or any combination of a proximity sensor, a motion sensor, a speed sensor, an audio sensor, a volume sensor, or an impact sensor; Electrical accessories are When the button triggers the virtual assistant device, the virtual assistant device communicates voice input and output with the electronic device; Air freshener emitter and Including, The safe body is sound-deadening material that reduces and prevents sounds from electronic devices from reaching an operator of the vehicle; a charging unit for the electronic device; a docking station for securing the electronic device; Smart Safe Console System. (Claim 19) providing a smart safe console assembly in a vehicle, said smart safe console assembly comprising: a safe body adapted to prevent physical access to electronic devices while a user is operating said vehicle; buttons for controlling inputs to and outputs from an electronic device while a user is operating the vehicle; Including, the user can open and close the safe body to access the interior of the safe body; the smart safe console assembly is in communication with a provider and the vehicle; wherein the smart safe console assembly controls use of a device while the vehicle is in use; registering said electronic device with said smart safe assembly; securing the electronic device to the safe body; connecting the electronic device to a charging unit located in the safe body; detecting a connection of the electronic device to the charging unit; closing the safe body; operating the vehicle; A method comprising: (Claim 20) The method of claim 19 further comprising engaging the button.

Claims

1. 1. A smart safe console system including an assembly mounted on a vehicle, a safe body that protects electronic devices from physical access while the vehicle is in use; buttons for controlling input to and output from the electronic device; the safe body opens and closes, and when closed, the safe body protects the electronic device from physical access; the assembly is in communication with a provider and the vehicle; the safe body includes a left wing and a right wing configured to move between an open state and a closed state; When the safe body is in an open state, the electronic device is inserted into or removed from the safe body; the safe body includes an ultraviolet germicidal device configured to kill bacteria on one or more surfaces contained within the safe body; A smart safe console system, wherein the electronic device is isolated from handheld use when the safe body is in a closed position.

2. The smart safe console system of claim 1 , wherein the assembly communicates with one or more vehicle sensors to receive status information regarding the vehicle.

3. The one or more vehicle sensors are any one or any combination of a proximity sensor, a motion sensor, a speed sensor, an audio sensor, a volume sensor, or an impact sensor; The smart safe console system of claim 2.

4. 4. The smart safe console system of claim 3, further comprising a port for communicating with or providing power to at least one electrical accessory, the electrical accessory including a transmitter configured to communicate with the controller and processor.

5. The smart safe console system of claim 4 , wherein the button initiates communication with the electrical accessory or a virtual assistant of the electronic device.

6. The smart safe console system of claim 5 , wherein the electronic device executes software application instructions that cause the electronic device to register and communicate with the assembly.

7. The smart safe console system of claim 6 , wherein the safe body includes sound-deadening material.

8. The smart safe console system of claim 7 further comprising a control module that enables vehicle operation when the electronic device is secured.

9. providing a smart safe console assembly in a vehicle, said smart safe console assembly comprising: a safe body adapted to prevent physical access to electronic devices while a user is operating said vehicle; buttons that control inputs to and outputs from an electronic device while a user is operating the vehicle; Including, the safe body opens and closes, and when closed, the safe body protects the electronic device from physical access; the safe body includes a left wing and a right wing configured to move between an open state and a closed state; the safe body includes an ultraviolet germicidal device configured to kill bacteria on one or more surfaces contained within the safe body; When the safe body is in an open state, the electronic device is inserted into or removed from the safe body; When the safe body is in a closed state, the electronic device is isolated from handheld use; the user can open and close the safe body to access the interior of the safe body; the smart safe console assembly is in communication with a provider and the vehicle; the smart safe console assembly controlling use of the electronic device while the vehicle is in use; registering the electronic device with the smart safe console assembly; securing the electronic device to the safe body; connecting the electronic device to a charging unit located in the safe body; detecting a connection of the electronic device to the charging unit; closing the safe body; and operating the vehicle.

10. The method of claim 9 further comprising the step of engaging the button.

Images