Matthew T Nichelson

US Patent:

60285370, Feb 22, 2000

Filed:

Jun 13, 1997

Appl. No.:

8/874210

Inventors:

Michael J. Suman - Holland MI
Thomas L. Welling - Holland MI
Mark L. Zeinstra - Holland MI
Ruskin T. Lhamon - Holland MI
Matthew T. Nichelson - Zeeland MI

Assignee:

Prince Corporation - Holland MI

International Classification:

G08G 1123

US Classification:

340988

Abstract:

The vehicle communication and control system of the present invention includes a transceiver for sending and receiving RF signals, a processor coupled to the transceiver, a location identifying sensor coupled to the processor for supplying vehicle location data, a user interface coupled to the processor for providing information to a user and for enabling a user to input commands to be executed by the processor, and a vehicle accessory interface for coupling the processor to a vehicle accessory control circuit to enable the processor to issue commands to a vehicle accessory. The processor is preferably adapted to perform a wide variety of functions in response to user input commands, received RF signals, and other commands received from other vehicle accessories and components coupled to the system of the present invention through the vehicle system bus. Some of these functions include establishing a two-way communication link, requesting and providing location-specific information, enabling remote tracking of the vehicle, issuing an emergency request or a request for roadside assistance, requesting and receiving navigational information, remote control of vehicle functions, enabling remote diagnostics of the vehicle, and enabling reprogramming of various vehicle accessories and components.

US Patent:

58983929, Apr 27, 1999

Filed:

Feb 10, 1998

Appl. No.:

9/021078

Inventors:

John S. Bambini - Kentwood MI
Matthew T. Nichelson - Zeeland MI
Ruskin T. Lhamon - Holland MI
Jason M. Denbow - South Haven MI

Assignee:

Prince Corporation - Holland MI

International Classification:

G08G 1123

US Classification:

340996

Abstract:

A system for remotely controlling vehicle accessories is disclosed that allows a user to remotely control vehicle accessories using a conventional telephone. The system is particularly well-suited for use in controlling an in-vehicle voice recorder while recording therein navigational instructions formed of a plurality of navigational steps. Through remote control of the vehicle recorder, a recorded message may be segmented in response to DTMF signals generated by pressing keys on a keypad of a conventional telephone. A driver may then playback the navigational steps one at a time as needed while driving to the identified destination. The system further allows for remote control of other vehicle accessories through the manipulation of keys on a conventional telephone keypad.