AU2014100909A4 - Emobi - Google Patents

Abstract

2014100909 In-car mobile phone immobiliser. Car requires mobile phone to be inserted into the built-in dash unit, in order to start ignition via the ECU. Therefore, drivers are unable to use handheld mobile phone whilst the car is in motion. Once phone is mounted the data from the SIM will activate the immobiliser connecting to the ECU to enable the car to start. Service centres will have master key/SIM to enable start-up for service purpose. Black market service key/SIM. Solution: fit service keys with (for example) 5km travel distance limit before engine is disabled. Theft. Thief will be required to activate vehicle via mobile phone - possible tracking method for stolen vehicle.

Description

1 Emobi Definition: In-car mobile phone immobiliser. Car requires mobile phone to be inserted into the built-in dash unit, in order to start ignition via the ECU. Therefore, drivers are unable to use handheld mobile phone whilst the car is in motion. Vision: All car manufacturers and commercial vehicles to integrate this product within 5 years ( if not earlier ), to reduce on road incidents and or deaths involving mobile phone use. Benefits * Decrease accidents and loss of life from in-car mobile phone use * Increase safety rating of vehicle * Decrease insurance premiums if driver has such technology in car * Decrease in theft, as thief may be tracked via his own mobile phone device Operational aspects: - Phone must have live SIM in order to start vehicle. Module will recognise if SIM is active. - Once phone is mounted into device, user can receive; - SMS as a read back feature via multimedia interface (MMI) through bluetooth. - SMS cannot be sent - SMS can be responded to as outgoing voice calls only. - Incoming and outgoing calls via MMI - Maps (if MMI not available) - and Music streaming. - Doubles as charger unit for mobile phone - All other functions disabled including social media, gaming and any other mobile phone applications. - Eliminates the need for cords, chargers, phone holders. No more attachments to windscreens with possible view obstructions. Security/Service - Service centres will have master key/SIM to enable start-up for service purpose.

2 Possible Concerns - Black market service key/SIM. Solution: fit service keys with (for example) 5km travel distance limit before engine is disabled. - Theft. Thief will be required to activate vehicle via mobile phone - possible tracking method for stolen vehicle. Adaptors for various phone types: Whether the phone holder is a pop up or an inbuilt unit on the dashboard. The bottom piece will be a USB input that has an adaptation for the various makes of phone. The USB will be a L - shape type and will be a simple plug-in unit also acting as the base for the phone. Once phone is mounted the data from the SIM will activate the immobiliser connecting to the ECU to enable the car to start. SIM issues: If you are in a non service area from your phone provider, this will not affect the operation of the immobiliser. The ECU will recognise that the SIM card is active, not the reception of your mobile service provider. Non active SIM cards will not be recognised.

Claims (4)

1. An In-built mobile phone engine immobilisor cradle/holder

2. An in-built mobile phone engine immobilisor cradle/holder according to claim 1, once the phone is placed in the cradle/holder that is attached to the USB port of which is connected to the ECU, are you able to start the engine of a vehicle, i.e. cars, trucks and buses.

3. An in-built mobile phone engine immobilisor cradle/holder according to claim 2, the mobile phone will go into 'car mode' and only the following applications of the mobile phone can function - phone calls, music library and maps.

4. An Inbuilt mobile phone engine immobilisor cradle/holder as stated in the above claims, once mounted in the cradle/holder will also keep the mobile phone constantly charged.