System for adapting driver information systems to existing vehicles
US6633482B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 10, 2001 |
| Grant date | Oct 14, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Aug 25, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S439/945
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A system for installing an interactive driver information system into an existing vehicle is disclosed. An off-the-shelf driver-to-vehicle interface device such as a PDA is received in a corresponding docking station. A custom adapter device mechanically and electrically receives the PDA components and enables a mechanical and electrical connection from the PDA components to the vehicle. The custom adapter device is configured in a variety of embodiments to interfit with a pre-existing cavity in the vehicle such as a cup holder, ashtray cavity, coin holder, or seam in the dashboard. The custom adapter device further provides an electrical connection from the PDA components to the power system of the vehicle and to an electronic on board controller. The PDA docking station may be structurally integrated with a microphone, a speaker, and a control panel of manually operable elements to be manipulated by a driver.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.