System for controlling the use of electronic devices within an automobile

• US 20090128286A1
• Filed: 11/19/2008
• Published: 05/21/2009
• Est. Priority Date: 11/20/2007
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: VOXX International Corporation
• Original Assignee: VOXX International Corporation
• Inventors: Vitito, Christopher J.
• Granted Patent: US 8,502,642 B2
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 340/5.800
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 11/0264 for control means
• CPC Class Codes: H05K 5/0208 Interlock mechanisms; Means for avoiding unauthorised use or function, e.g. tamperproof

Abstract

A system for controlling the use of electronic devices within an automobile includes a control module integrated into the operation of the automobile, wherein the control module is linked to the electrical system of the automobile and is controlled, monitored and updated via a graphical user interface of the automobiles. The control module includes a mechanism for identifying use of electronic devices within the automobile, determining whether the usage is permitted and preventing usage of the electronic device if it is determined the usage is not permitted.

Claims

1. A system for controlling the use of electronic devices within an automobile, comprising:

a control module integrated into operation of the automobile, wherein the control module is linked to an electrical system of the automobile and is controlled, monitored and updated via a graphical user interface of the automobile;

the control module includes a means for identifying use of the electronic devices within the automobile, determining whether the usage is permitted and preventing usage of the electronic device if it is determined the usage is not permitted.

2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the electronic devices are portable electronic devices.

3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the control module is integrated into the operation of a computer control center of the automobile.

4. The system according to claim 1, wherein the control module includes a receiver gathering all signals transmitted within the automobile and a processor to which gathered signals are forwarded for analysis as to the origin of the signals based upon the signature of the signal.

5. The system according to claim 4, wherein the control module includes a transmitter issuing a jamming signal preventing future usage of unauthorized electronic devices.

6. The system according to claim 1, wherein a communication module with an authorized electronic device communicates with the control module to indicate it is an authorized electronic device.

7. The system according to claim 1, wherein the control module includes a signal transmitter transmitting jamming signals.

8. The system according to claim 7, wherein the means for identifying, determining and preventing includes RFID tags incorporated into authorized electronic devices and an RF receiver forming part of the control module.

9. The system according to claim 8, the control module alters an issued jamming signal such that unauthorized electronic devices are prevented from usage while the authorized electronic devices are permitted to transmit and receive signals.