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Method and apparatus for detecting a utilization of an electronic device by a driver, for a vehicle

  • US 10,395,387 B2
  • Filed: 04/06/2017
  • Issued: 08/27/2019
  • Est. Priority Date: 04/29/2016
  • Status: Expired due to Fees
First Claim
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1. A method for detecting a utilization of an electronic device by a driver of a vehicle, the method comprising:

  • obtaining, by processing circuitry and from a sensor disposed in the vehicle, at least one sensor signal representing at least one current parameter of at least one of the electronic device and the driver in the vehicle;

    comparing, by the processing circuitry, the sensor signal with at least one stored utilization signal that represents the utilization of the electronic device by the driver while driving the vehicle;

    outputting, by the processing circuitry, a detection signal that indicates the utilization of the electronic device in response to a determination, based on the comparing, that a predetermined correlation exists between the sensor signal and the utilization signal; and

    suppressing operation of the electronic device being operated by the driver to improve driving safety;

    wherein the obtained signal represents at least one of a position of the driver in the vehicle, a gaze direction of the driver in the vehicle, and a hand movement of the driver in the vehicle,wherein the position of the driver, the gaze direction of the driver and/or hand movements of the driver are captured and monitored over time to determine whether the driver is using the electronic device in the vehicle, andwherein operation of the electronic device is suppressed by deactivating the electronic device by disconnecting radio connections, including NFC or Bluetooth connections, between vehicle electronics and the electronic device.

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