Method and system for preventing device operation when driving
US8457692B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 7, 2010 |
| Grant date | Jun 4, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 12, 2031 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04K2203/22
- WIPO fieldTelecommunications
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A method and system are presented for restricting the use of a portable electronic device by a driver who is operating a vehicle. A body area network (BAN) signal is sent from a vehicle device in the vehicle in close proximity to the driver. The BAN signal is transmitted using the driver's biological body as a signal transmission path. The portable electronic device includes a receiver configured to detect the BAN signal when the device is in close proximity to the driver. The portable electronic device is further configured to disable or restrict at least one function in response to detection of the BAN signal, thereby preventing or restricting use of the portable electronic device when the driver is seated in and operating the vehicle.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.