DRIVER-ENTRY DETECTOR FOR A MOTOR VEHICLE
First Claim
Patent Images
1. An active infrared (IR) sensor that is usable to detect entry of an occupant into a motor vehicle, the active IR sensor comprising:
- an IR emitter that transmits a signal;
a signal receiver that detects a reflection of the signal;
a microcontroller that receives an indication from the signal receiver that the reflection was detected;
an output converter that converts the indication to an automotive-compatible protocol; and
a power conditioner that adapts a 12V power supply to a sensor-usable voltage.
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Abstract
Driver-detection technology includes various systems, methods, and apparatuses. For example, an active infrared (IR) sensor might be affixed in a motor-vehicle driver footwell and detect the driver'"'"'s entry into the vehicle. The detection of the driver by the IR sensor is usable to personalize motor-vehicle features, such as seat position, steering-wheel position, interior lighting, radio controls, mirror angles, and touch-screen configuration, among others.
14 Citations
20 Claims
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1. An active infrared (IR) sensor that is usable to detect entry of an occupant into a motor vehicle, the active IR sensor comprising:
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an IR emitter that transmits a signal; a signal receiver that detects a reflection of the signal; a microcontroller that receives an indication from the signal receiver that the reflection was detected; an output converter that converts the indication to an automotive-compatible protocol; and a power conditioner that adapts a 12V power supply to a sensor-usable voltage. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5)
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6. A seat for a motor vehicle comprising:
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a seat bottom; a seat base that connects the seat bottom to a vehicle floor and that includes an inboard portion and an outboard portion; and an active infrared (IR) sensor that is coupled to the seat bottom and that comprises; an infrared emitter that transmits an infrared signal; and a proximity photo diode that detects a reflected infrared signal. - View Dependent Claims (7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14)
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15. A method for personalizing a feature of a motor vehicle comprising:
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transmitting an infrared signal into a footwell of the motor vehicle; receiving a reflected infrared signal; responsive to receiving the reflected signal, generating a notification that an occupant entered the motor vehicle; and in response to the notification applying a personalized feature. - View Dependent Claims (16, 17, 18, 19, 20)
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Specification