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| Marine vessel monitoring system and method |
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| Use of an altitude sensor to augment availability of GPS location fixes |
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Driver interface system for vehicle control parameters and easy to utilize switches
| Details |
Inventors: Miller, Robin Mihekan; Hartman, Hollister;
Assignee: UT Automotive Dearborn, Inc. (Southfield, MI)
Primary Examiner: Jackson; Stephen W.
Assistant Examiner: Polk; Sharon
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Brooks & Kushman P.C.
An improved driver interface system provides prompts to an operator to adjust several vehicle parameters. In this way, the operator is assured to adjust the necessary components upon start up of the vehicle. This is particularly important when the driver is unfamiliar with the car, as with a rental car. In one embodiment, the driver may be provided with a transmitter that stores desired settings for at least some parameters. The transmitter can then transmit the operator's desired parameters to a control, and the vehicle components can then begin to be moved to the desired positions as the operator approaches the vehicle. In other aspects of this invention, improved switches are disclosed. A rotary switch rotates on a steering wheel rim. This switch is easily accessible to an operator, and does not require the operator to divert attention from the road. A second type switch includes an element which is sensitive to touch by the operator. In this way, the operator can easily set a desired level by simply touching the switch. This type switch has particular benefits in cruise control systems, or in systems for positioning vehicle components such as windows. |
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DETAILED DESCRIPTION In a disclosed embodiment of this invention, an interface system for setting vehicle control parameters prompts the driver through a series of settings upon entering the vehicle.
The interface system may prompt the driver to set the position of the seats, mirrors, etc.
The interface system may also be provided with a second, optional, set of prompts to position secondary characteristics such as interior lighting level, volume of audio system, etc.
In other features of this invention, an interface system is provided that is somewhat universal.
The driver is provided with a key fob, or other device that stores and transmits the individual positions of the several control parameters desired by the driver.
The driver may actuate the key fob when approaching, or entering, the vehicle.
The control for the interface system captures the signals, and the control parameters are then adjusted to the drivers desired settings.
This reduces the time necessary to set the parameters to those desired by the operator when entering a new vehicle, such as a rental car.
The key fob storing the driver's preferences may also be used without the interface system.
The invention can be used to allow a vehicle to begin moving to preset memory positions even before the driver enters the car.
This portion of the invention may replace, or supplement, vehicle mounted memory switches.
In other features of this invention, unique switches are disclosed which are more easy to utilize, and are less likely to distract the driver's attention from the road.
In one embodiment, a rotary switch is mounted directly on the rim of the steering wheel.
The driver need only rotate the rotary switch which is adjacent to the location of the driver's hand.
Positioning the rotary switch on the steering wheel rim thus allows an operator to easily adjust control parameters.
The switch has benefits both within, and separate from, the above described interface system.
A second inventive switch type allows an operator to touch a position on the switch and easily and accurately set a control parameter
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