Vehicle Safety System Optimization Using RFID Occupant Identification
First Claim
1. A method comprising:
- using a non-contact reader to read an RFID tag carried by a vehicle occupant, the tag containing a code assigned to the occupant;
accessing an electronic data file associated with the code and containing physical characteristics of the occupant;
querying the occupant regarding the data file;
receiving a response to the query from the occupant; and
adapting a performance parameter of an occupant safety system in accordance with the response.
1 Assignment
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Accused Products
Abstract
A non-contact RFID reader reads a code contained on an RFID tag carried by a driver of a vehicle. The code is assigned to a specific individual expected to operate the vehicle. An electronic module in the vehicle contains a data file uniquely associated with the code, and the data file contains physical characteristics of the driver that may be pertinent to proper functioning of safety systems of the vehicle, such as weight, height, age, and sex. Performance parameters of restraints and/or other safety systems, such as an airbag associated with the driver'"'"'s seating position are adapted in accordance with the physical characteristics in the data file. The RFID reader may read multiple tags on board the vehicle, so that restraints for multiple seating positions in addition to the driver'"'"'s seat may be adapted to the individual occupying those positions.
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Citations
20 Claims
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1. A method comprising:
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using a non-contact reader to read an RFID tag carried by a vehicle occupant, the tag containing a code assigned to the occupant; accessing an electronic data file associated with the code and containing physical characteristics of the occupant; querying the occupant regarding the data file; receiving a response to the query from the occupant; and adapting a performance parameter of an occupant safety system in accordance with the response. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9)
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10-14. -14. (canceled)
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15. A method for improving occupant safety in a motor vehicle comprising:
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using a non-contact reader in the vehicle to read an identification code of an RFID tag, the identification code uniquely associated with an occupant of the vehicle; accessing a data file stored electronically on-board the vehicle and associated with the code, the data file describing physical characteristics of the occupant; communicating a prompt to the occupant to confirm an identity associated with the code; and adapting a setting of an occupant safety system in accordance with at least one of the physical characteristics and an occupant response to the prompt. - View Dependent Claims (16, 17, 18, 19, 20)
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Specification