U.S. patent application number 17/404630 was filed with the patent office on 2021-12-02 for assembly and method for preventing wireless communication while driving.
The applicant listed for this patent is Pearce Family Trust. Invention is credited to Richard J. Pearce, Scott D. Smiley.
Application Number | 20210377383 17/404630 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005782812 |
Filed Date | 2021-12-02 |
United States Patent
Application |
20210377383 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Pearce; Richard J. ; et
al. |
December 2, 2021 |
ASSEMBLY AND METHOD FOR PREVENTING WIRELESS COMMUNICATION WHILE
DRIVING
Abstract
A system, apparatus, and method for preventing wireless
communication while driving is presented. The system including a
text prevention device configured to be installed in a vehicle and
detect mobile computing devices within the vehicle. The text
prevention device is further configured to establish a connection
with detected mobile computing devices and serve as a proxy device
to receive signal transmissions transmitted from and received by
the mobile computing devices preventing the mobile computing
devices within the vehicle from distracting the driver during
operation of the vehicle.
Inventors: |
Pearce; Richard J.; (Conroe,
TX) ; Smiley; Scott D.; (Fort Lauderdale,
FL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Pearce Family Trust |
The Woodlands |
TX |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005782812 |
Appl. No.: |
17/404630 |
Filed: |
August 17, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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17102197 |
Nov 23, 2020 |
11095768 |
|
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17404630 |
|
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62941354 |
Nov 27, 2019 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04M 1/72436 20210101;
H04M 1/72463 20210101; H04W 4/12 20130101; H04W 4/48 20180201; H04W
4/027 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H04M 1/72463 20060101
H04M001/72463; H04W 4/48 20060101 H04W004/48; H04W 4/12 20060101
H04W004/12; H04W 4/02 20060101 H04W004/02; H04M 1/72436 20060101
H04M001/72436 |
Claims
1. A system for preventing computing device use during operation of
a moving vehicle, the system comprising: a text prevention device
(TPD) operable to: identify a first computing device present within
a vehicle; establish a communication link between the TPD and the
first computing device; receive a primary proxy communication
authority from the first computing device; detect movement of the
vehicle; prevent at least one function of the first computing
device when movement of the vehicle is detected; monitor an
interior of the vehicle when movement of the vehicle is detected;
determine the number of people within the vehicle; compare the
number of people within the vehicle to the number of computing
devices with established communication links with the TPD; and
activate an alerting mechanism in response to determining the
number of people within the vehicle exceeds the number of computer
devices with established communication links with the TPD.
2. The system of claim 1, further comprising: a camera operable to
monitor the interior of the vehicle.
3. The system of claim 1, further comprising: a global positioning
system (GPS) receiver operable to detect the vehicle exceeding a
predetermined speed threshold before activating the alerting
mechanism.
4. The system of claim 3, further comprising: an audio component
operable to broadcast at least one warning signal if a
communication link is not present between the TPD and at least one
computing device within the vehicle when the predetermined speed
threshold is exceeded.
5. The system of claim 1, further comprising: a transmitter
operable to report to a central authority that the number of people
within the vehicle exceeds the number of computer devices with
established communication links with the TPD.
6. The system of claim 1, further comprising: a database including
whitelist information that includes at least one of a plurality of
activity entries and a plurality of contact entries; and a
processor operable to interpret contents of the whitelist and
deactivate functionality of the first computing device based on
contents of the whitelist.
7. The system of claim 6, wherein the plurality of activity entries
comprises at least one of an unauthorized call, an unauthorized
text, or a browsing activity.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein: the TPD is further operable to:
capture an image of the interior of the vehicle; and transmit the
image of the interior of the vehicle to a central authority.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein: the TPD is further operable to
transmit a video stream containing images of the interior of the
vehicle to a central authority.
10. The method of claim 1, wherein: the TPD is further operable to
sound an audible alarm within the vehicle.
11. A method for preventing computing device use during operation
of a moving vehicle, the method comprising: receiving, at a text
prevention device (TPD) located within a vehicle, an identification
a first computing device present within the vehicle; establishing a
communication link between the TPD and the first computing device;
receiving, at the TPD, a primary proxy communication authority from
the first computing device; preventing at least one function of the
first computing device when the TPD detects movement of the
vehicle; monitoring an interior of the vehicle when the TPD detects
movement of the vehicle; identifying the number of people within
the vehicle; comparing the number of people within the vehicle to
the number of computing devices with established communication
links with the TPD; and activating an alerting mechanism in
response to determining the number of people within the vehicle
exceeds the number of computer devices with established
communication links with the TPD.
12. The method of claim 11, wherein: the monitoring is performed
with a camera.
13. The method of claim 11, further comprising: detecting the
vehicle exceeding a predetermined speed threshold before activating
the alerting mechanism.
14. The method of claim 13, further comprising: based on the
detection step, broadcasting, via the TPD, at least one warning
signal if a communication link is not present between the TPD and
at least one computing device within the vehicle.
15. The method of claim 11, further comprising: reporting to a
central authority, via the TPD, that the number of people within
the vehicle exceeds the number of computer devices with established
communication links with the TPD.
16. The method of claim 11, further comprising: maintaining, via
the TPD, a whitelist comprising at least one of a plurality of
activity entries and a plurality of contact entries; and
deactivating functionality of the first computing device based on
contents of the whitelist.
17. The method of claim 16, wherein the plurality of activity
entries comprises at least one of an unauthorized call, an
unauthorized text, or a browsing activity.
18. The method of claim 11, wherein the step of activating an
alerting mechanism includes at least one of: saving an image of the
interior of the vehicle to a memory; and transmitting an image of
the interior of the vehicle to a central authority.
19. The method of claim 11, wherein the step of activating an
alerting mechanism includes transmitting a video stream containing
images of the interior of the vehicle to a central authority.
20. The method of claim 11, wherein the step of activating an
alerting mechanism includes sounding an audible alarm within the
vehicle.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 62/941,354 filed Nov. 27, 2019; U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/027,097 filed May 19,
2020; U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/058,176 filed
Jul. 29, 2020; and non-provisional application Ser. No. 17/102,197,
filed Nov. 23, 2020, now issued as U.S. Pat. No. 11,095,768, and
claims the benefit of the aforementioned applications, the
entireties of which are hereby incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention relates generally to preventing
wireless communication while driving and, more particularly,
relates to systems and methods for preventing computing device use
during operation of a moving vehicle.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Modern mobile communication devices, such as cellular
telephones, tablets, media players with wireless connections,
portable computers, and others, have provided users with a robust
line of applications and abilities. Today, the vast majority of
phones being put into service are of the "smart phone" type. These
devices pack virtually all of the functionality, and possibly more,
of traditional laptops into the small footprint of a phone. Of
significance, virtually every cellular telephone now provides short
messaging server (SMS) capabilities, i.e., "text" messaging, where
users can communicate directly with each other by sending short
messages. Utilization of any single feature, of which there are
many, on the above-mentioned devices, requires significant time
looking at the screen. This is especially true since SMSs now can
and often do include photographs, videos, graphics, such as
emoticons, and other multimedia content. Sending and receiving text
messages is, to many people, so enjoyable, they cannot control
their urge to do so, no matter the situation or circumstances.
[0004] It is undeniable that the use of mobile communication
devices, while driving, is distracting to the driver and dangerous
to both the driver and those around him or her. For this reason,
many states have passed laws banning activities such as texting
while driving. Although these laws are in place and most people
know the dangers, texting while driving, surfing the Internet, and
other distracting activities are still engaged in by drivers on a
regular basis.
[0005] One group that is notorious for being distracted while
driving is teenagers, although members of every age group are just
as guilty. With the added component of the above-mentioned mobile
devices, many parents are more fearful than ever of allowing their
children to drive. One way to ensure children will not text and
drive, as just one example of a distracting activity facilitated by
a mobile communication device, is to require them to leave their
cellular telephones at home. However, this puts the children in a
dangerous situation of not having communicative capabilities.
Although, in recent years, there was a time when most drivers did
not have cellular telephone capability, they at least had the
ability to pull over and utilize a pay telephone. Now, because
cellular telephones have become so popular, pay phones have become
virtually extinct. In addition, parents cannot prevent their
children from using a passenger's mobile device while they
drive.
[0006] Another group that needs to be controlled are commercial
drivers, such as FEDEX, UPS, AMAZON drivers, and many more. These
drivers are on the road eight hours a day. The likelihood for
accidents is already high and the distraction of a smart phone, for
example, significantly increases those risks. The liability for
fleet owners is also enormous when their drivers are using
computing devices, such as smart phones, while driving.
[0007] One way to prevent communication, including text and voice,
is through use of a wireless signal jammer. Generally, the
objective of a wireless signal jammer is to interrupt the
availability of communication signals in the space of the receiver.
Jammers cause enough interference with the communication between
cell phones and towers to render the phones unusable.
[0008] Currently-available jammers can block all widely used
systems (CDMA, iDEN, GSM, et al.) and are even very effective
against newer phones which hop to different frequencies and systems
when interfered with. Jammers, however, are illegal within the
United States. In addition, as the dominant network technology and
frequencies used for mobile phones vary worldwide, even if legal
there, some work only in specific regions such as Europe or North
America.
[0009] An alternative to "jamming" a signal is a method of tricking
a device into thinking it is connected to a cellular network when
it is not. In these systems, an intelligent network access
controller for use with a wireless network creates a local wireless
network that is an overlay to a part of an existing wireless
network. The intelligent network access controller uses a
multi-protocol interface and an access module to prevent mobile
computing device access to the existing wireless network by locking
wireless communications devices to the network access controller.
Once locked, the user of the phone is unable to send or receive
data or voice signals from his or her mobile device.
[0010] One possible way of preventing mobile communication while in
a vehicle is to operate a network access controller or mobile phone
jammer within or on the vehicle, thereby temporarily disabling
communications to or from the driver's mobile device. However, such
devices require substantial power levels.
[0011] Many entities have developed and provided software solutions
to prevent texting and driving. These solutions require the prior
installation of the software on a user's phone and the cooperation
of the user to allow the software to remain active while the user
is driving. The problem with these solutions is that the user of
the phone can defeat the software by disabling it. In addition,
because the software only works on the phone upon which it is
installed, it cannot prevent the use of other wireless devices
within the automobile, e.g., the device of a friend or a second
device owned by the user.
[0012] Therefore, a need exists to overcome the problems with the
prior art as discussed above.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] The present invention provides a system and method for
preventing wireless communication while driving that overcomes the
hereinafore-mentioned disadvantages of the heretofore-known devices
and methods of this general type and that quickly and easily
installs within a vehicle without the need for physical alteration
of any portion of the vehicle or special wiring. Once installed,
the device cannot be easily removed by the user, which forces him
or her to refrain from engaging in dangerous mobile communication
while the vehicle is in motion.
[0014] With the foregoing and other objects in view, there is
provided, in accordance with the invention, a device that detects
movement of the vehicle and requires coupling and cooperation
between the device and a user's mobile computing device such that
the user's mobile computing device is unable to receive and/or
transmit data while the automobile is moving.
[0015] In accordance with embodiments of the present invention, a
text prevention device can identify the number of persons within
automobile and requires coupling and cooperation between the device
and each user's mobile computing device such that each user's
mobile computing device is unable to receive and/or transmit data
while the automobile is moving.
[0016] In accordance with yet another embodiment of the present
invention, a text prevention device can alert a third party that
one or more passengers within the moving vehicle that have not
coupled their mobile computing device to a text prevention device
within the vehicle.
[0017] A system of one or more computers can be configured to
perform particular operations or actions by virtue of having
software, firmware, hardware, or a combination of them installed on
the system that in operation causes or cause the system to perform
the actions. One or more computer programs can be configured to
perform particular operations or actions by virtue of including
instructions that, when executed by data processing apparatus,
cause the apparatus to perform the actions. One general aspect
includes a system for preventing computing device use during
operation of a moving vehicle a text prevention device (TPF)
operable to: identify a first computing device present within a
vehicle, establish a communication link between the TPD and the
first computing device, receive a primary proxy communication
authority from the first computing device, detect movement of the
vehicle, prevent at least one function of the first computing
device when movement of the vehicle is detected, monitor an
interior of the vehicle when movement of the vehicle is detected.
The system also includes determine the number of people within the
vehicle; compare the number of people within the vehicle to the
number of computing devices with established communication links
with the TPD, and activate an alerting mechanism in response to
determining the number of people within the vehicle exceeds the
number of computer devices with established communication links
with the TPD. Other embodiments of this aspect include
corresponding computer systems, apparatus, and computer programs
recorded on one or more computer storage devices, each configured
to perform the actions of the methods.
[0018] Implementations may include one or more of the following
features. The system may include: a camera operable to monitor the
interior of the vehicle. The system may include: a global
positioning system (gps) receiver operable to detect the vehicle
exceeding a predetermined speed threshold before activating the
alerting mechanism. The system may include: an audio component
operable to broadcast at least one warning signal if a
communication link is not present between the TPD and at least one
computing device within the vehicle when the predetermined speed
threshold is exceeded. The system may include: a transmitter
operable to report to a central authority that the number of people
within the vehicle exceeds the number of computer devices with
established communication links with the TPD. The system may
include: a database including whitelist information that includes
at least one of a plurality of activity entries and a plurality of
contact entries; and a processor operable to interpret contents of
the whitelist and deactivate functionality of the first computing
device based on contents of the whitelist. The plurality of
activity entries may include at least one of an unauthorized call,
an unauthorized text, or a browsing activity. The TPD is further
operable to: capture an image of the interior of the vehicle; and
transmit the image of the interior of the vehicle to a central
authority. The TPD is further operable to transmit a video stream
containing images of the interior of the vehicle to a central
authority. The TPD is further operable to sound an audible alarm
within the vehicle. Implementations of the described techniques may
include hardware, a method or process, or computer software on a
computer-accessible medium.
[0019] One general aspect includes a method for preventing
computing device use during operation of a moving vehicle. The
method also includes receiving, at a text prevention device (TPD)
located within a vehicle, an identification a first computing
device present within the vehicle; establishing a communication
link between the TPD and the first computing device; receiving, at
the TPD, a primary proxy communication authority from the first
computing device; preventing at least one function of the first
computing device when the TPD detects movement of the vehicle;
monitoring an interior of the vehicle when the TPD detects movement
of the vehicle; identifying the number of people within the
vehicle; comparing the number of people within the vehicle to the
number of computing devices with established communication links
with the TPD; and activating an alerting mechanism in response to
determining the number of people within the vehicle exceeds the
number of computer devices with established communication links
with the TPD. Other embodiments of this aspect include
corresponding computer systems, apparatus, and computer programs
recorded on one or more computer storage devices, each configured
to perform the actions of the methods.
[0020] Implementations may include one or more of the following
features. The method where: the monitoring is performed with a
camera. The method may include: detecting the vehicle exceeding a
predetermined speed threshold before activating the alerting
mechanism. The method may include: based on the detection step,
broadcasting, via the TPD, at least one warning signal if a
communication link is not present between the TPD and at least one
computing device within the vehicle. The method may include:
reporting to a central authority, via the TPD, that the number of
people within the vehicle exceeds the number of computer devices
with established communication links with the TPD. The method may
include: maintaining, via the TPD, a whitelist may include at least
one of a plurality of activity entries and a plurality of contact
entries; and deactivating functionality of the first computing
device based on contents of the whitelist. The plurality of
activity entries may include at least one of an unauthorized call,
an unauthorized text, or a browsing activity. The step of
activating an alerting mechanism includes at least one of: saving
an image of the interior of the vehicle to a memory; and
transmitting an image of the interior of the vehicle to a central
authority. The step of activating an alerting mechanism includes
transmitting a video stream containing images of the interior of
the vehicle to a central authority. The step of activating an
alerting mechanism includes sounding an audible alarm within the
vehicle. Implementations of the described techniques may include
hardware, a method or process, or computer software on a
computer-accessible medium.
[0021] Although the invention is illustrated and described herein
as embodied in a system and method for preventing wireless
communication while driving, it is, nevertheless, not intended to
be limited to the details shown because various modifications and
structural changes may be made therein without departing from the
spirit of the invention and within the scope and range of
equivalents of the claims. Additionally, well-known elements of
exemplary embodiments of the invention will not be described in
detail or will be omitted so as not to obscure the relevant details
of the invention.
[0022] Other features that are considered as characteristic for the
invention are set forth in the appended claims. As required,
detailed embodiments of the present invention are disclosed herein;
however, it is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are
merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various
forms. Therefore, specific structural and functional details
disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely
as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for
teaching one of ordinary skill in the art to variously employ the
present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed
structure. Further, the terms and phrases used herein are not
intended to be limiting; but rather, to provide an understandable
description of the invention. While the specification concludes
with claims defining the features of the invention that are
regarded as novel, it is believed that the invention will be better
understood from a consideration of the following description in
conjunction with the drawing figures, in which like reference
numerals are carried forward. The figures of the drawings are not
drawn to scale.
[0023] Before the present invention is disclosed and described, it
is to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the
purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not
intended to be limiting. The terms "a" or "an", as used herein, are
defined as one or more than one. The term "plurality," as used
herein, is defined as two or more than two. The term "another," as
used herein, is defined as at least a second or more. The terms
"including" and/or "having," as used herein, are defined as
comprising (i.e., open language). The term "coupled," as used
herein, is defined as connected, although not necessarily directly,
and not necessarily mechanically. As used herein, the term "about"
or "approximately" applies to all numeric values, whether or not
explicitly indicated. These terms generally refer to a range of
numbers that one of skill in the art would consider equivalent to
the recited values (i.e., having the same function or result). In
many instances these terms may include numbers that are rounded to
the nearest significant figure. In this document, the term
"longitudinal" should be understood to mean in a direction
corresponding to an elongated direction of the inventive jamming
device.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0024] The accompanying figures, where like reference numerals
refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the
separate views and which together with the detailed description
below are incorporated in and form part of the specification, serve
to further illustrate various embodiments and explain various
principles and advantages all in accordance with the present
invention.
[0025] FIG. 1 is a block diagram depicting an exemplary system for
preventing computing device use during operation of a moving
vehicle, according to an example embodiment;
[0026] FIG. 2 is an exemplary vehicle utilizing the system for
preventing computing device use during operation of the vehicle,
according to an example embodiment;
[0027] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary method
for connecting a computing device to a text prevention device,
according to an example embodiment.
[0028] FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram depicting an exemplary
computer vision system utilized by the system for preventing
computing device use during operation of a moving vehicle,
according to an example embodiment.
[0029] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary method
for preventing computing device use during operation of a moving
vehicle, according to an example embodiment.
[0030] FIG. 6 illustrates a computer system according to exemplary
embodiments of the present technology.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0031] While the specification concludes with claims defining the
features of the invention that are regarded as novel, it is
believed that the invention will be better understood from a
consideration of the following description in conjunction with the
drawing figures, in which like reference numerals are carried
forward. It is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are
merely exemplary of the invention, which can be embodied in various
forms.
[0032] The present invention provides novel systems and methods for
preventing operation of a mobile computing device while operating a
moving vehicle. Embodiments of the invention provide a text
prevention device (TPD) designed to be installed in an automobile
configured to detect if the automobile is in motion, detect if
mobile computing devices are within the automobile, and prevent
functionality of the mobile computing devices based on the
attempted task being performed on the mobile computing devices.
Embodiments of the invention provide an unconventional apparatus
including at least one sensor wherein the apparatus may be
communicative coupled to a plurality of sensors disposed within the
automobile configured to perform phase detection via triangulation
in order to detect mobile computing devices present within the
automobile. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the systems and
methods provided herein are configured to utilize computer vision
based on real-time collected media acquired within the interior of
the automobile in order to detect mobile computing devices within
the automobile. In some embodiments, the TPD is designed to be
communicatively coupled to a server configured to allow data
received by the TPD to be reviewed and analyzed by a central
authority in order to monitor activities of occupants on mobile
computing devices within the automobile in real-time. The systems
and methods described herein provide improvements to safety and
security of motorists via application of the TPD to automobiles by
preventing use of mobile computing devices within automobiles
resulting in a significant reduction of distractions and
impairments for motorists while operating a vehicle.
[0033] Referring now to FIG. 1, a system for preventing operation
of a mobile computing device while operating a moving vehicle 100
is depicted, according to an exemplary embodiment. In one
embodiment, system 100 includes a TPD 102, also know as the
apparatus, configured to be installed in a vehicle 104. In one
embodiment, TPD 102 is configured to be installed in the front
panel of vehicle 104 in a manner in which TPD 102 is affixed to
and/or integrated with a component of vehicle 104 without requiring
any physical alteration of any portion of vehicle 104 or special
wiring. For example, TPD 102 may include components configured to
support one or more connections in which TPD may be inserted into
one or more ports including but not limited to universal serial bus
(USB) ports, lightning ports, AC/DC, onboard diagnostic (OBD) port,
or any other applicable form of power enabling port known to one of
ordinary skill in the art. In one embodiment, TPD 102 is attachable
and/or affixable to a surface associated with vehicle 104, such as
but not limited to the dashboard, windshield, rearview mirror, or
any other applicable surface/component of a vehicle. TPD 102 may
further include a rechargeable power source configured to power the
components of TPD 102 referred to throughout the disclosure. In one
embodiment, the power source may include an anti-tampering feature
in which if the power level is below a predetermined power
threshold in TPD 102 or if the at least a sensor detects signs of
an occupant attempting to remove TPD 102 from the one or more ports
of the vehicle 104, then an alerting mechanism is triggered via an
audible alarm and/or admin mobile computing device 112/central
authority of notified. In one embodiment, if TPD 102 is unplugged
from the one or more ports for a designated period of time, forcing
TPD 102 to rely on stored battery power within the rechargeable
power source then, TPD 102 notifies the applicable party that an
occupant has tampered with TPD 102. In other words, TPD 102 may
include an adapter mechanism wherein the adapter is configured to
sense an open circuit or a closed-circuit that indicates that TPD
102 is not plugged in the one or more ports. As described herein,
the central authority may be a parent, guardian, employer,
supervisor, principal, or any other applicable entity configured to
track, monitor, and analyze conditions and components within
vehicle 104.
[0034] In an embodiment, TPD 102 is equipped with a secure locking
power connection, such as that described in U.S. Pat. No.
9,467,928, which shares inventorship with the instant application.
Such a locking power connection ensures that only authorized
individuals can disable and/or remove TPD 102 from the vehicle
104.
[0035] In one embodiment, TPD 102 includes a solar panel configured
to receive photons in order to generate a flow of electricity to
power TPD 102, wherein excess energy is stored in the rechargeable
power source. In some embodiments, TPD 102 includes at least one
sensor wherein a sensor may include but is not limited to a camera,
microphone, biometrics sensor, infrared sensor, thermal sensor,
heartbeat sensor, radio frequency sensor, magnetometer,
optoelectronic sensor, motion detector, or any other applicable
sensor known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore,
TPD 102 may include a storage mechanism such as but not limited to
a memory card or any other applicable storage mechanism configured
to retain data acquired by TPD 102.
[0036] In one embodiment, TPD 102 further includes a solo
transponder designed to allow TPD 102 to function as a mobile
computing device configured to support an embedded cellular radio
resulting in the mobile computing device in connection with TPD 102
operating in airplane mode while the TPD 102 functions in the
capacity of a mobile computing device. TPD 102 can have its
transmissions disabled while vehicle 104 is in motion. In one
embodiment, TPD 102 includes an integrated speaker and/or
microphone in order to support notification of authorized
activities being ported to TPD 102 from the connected mobile
computing device 116. For example, an authorized contact may text
the mobile computing device 116 connected to TPD 102, but TPD 102
is serving as a proxy for the mobile computing device. As used
herein, the term "proxy" describes a device that serves one or more
functions of another device. For example, the "proxy" device, TPD
102, can make and receive calls on behalf and instead of the mobile
computing device 116. TPD 102 may read aloud from the speaker the
received text message from an authorized contact that sent a
message to the mobile device 116. In one embodiment, TPD 102 is
configured to detect the signal strength associated with a mobile
computing device within vehicle 104 along with the status of an
application running on the mobile computing device in order to
ensure that unauthorized activities attempted on the mobile
computing device may be flagged and prevented by TPD 102. For
example, if a mobile application is running in the background of
the mobile computing device 116, then TPD 102 may detect the mobile
application and prevent transmission of signals associated with the
mobile application from being emitted altogether while vehicle 104
is in motion. To do this, TPD 102 can include with it a software
application that runs on mobile computing device 116. The software
monitors the mobile computing device 116 in conjunction with the
hardware device, TPD 102.
[0037] It is to be understood that TPD 102 is configured to
function locally in some embodiments wherein TPD 102 establishes
connections with mobile computing devices within vehicle 104 and
data is acquired by components of TPD 102, such as the at least one
sensor, configured to be stored locally on the storage mechanism
and subsequently accessed by a central authority associated with
TPD 102. For example, the motorist of vehicle 104 may be an
employee of a package delivery company in which the package
delivery company provides TPD 102 in vehicle 104 in order to
monitor the mobile computing device use of the employee within
vehicle 104 by accessing the data stored on the storage mechanism,
originally collected by TPD 102, and analyzing said data. Although
TPD 102 is configured to function in a local configuration
requiring no active network connection to function (establish
connections between TPD 102 and mobile computing devices), the
aforementioned pertains to a configuration that supports
interactions between TPD 102 and a server 108 over a communication
network 106, in which network 106 may be implemented as a Local
Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), Public Switched
Telephone Network (PSTN), Virtual Private Network (VPN), mobile
communication network (GSM, GPRS, CDMA, MOBITEX, EDGE), Ethernet or
the Internet, one or more terrestrial, satellite or wireless links,
or any medium or mechanism that provides for the exchange of data
between the aforementioned components of system 100. It is to be
understood that TPD 102 being communicatively coupled to server 108
in some embodiments does not restrict the functionality of TPD 102
to perform thwarting of attempts to enable text/calling features by
an operator, storing locally, and subsequently having data manually
retrieved from the storage mechanism. As described herein, vehicle
104 may be an automobile, ATV, trike, motorcycle, truck, bus,
train, boat, ship, aircraft, spacecraft, or any other applicable
means of transportation requiring an operator.
[0038] In one embodiment, system 100 further includes a database
110 communicatively coupled to server 108, an admin computing
device 112 associated with the aforementioned central authority
configured to communicate with TPD 102 and server 108 over
communication network 106, and a computer vision system 114
configured to analyze images and videos captured by at least the
sensor of TPD 102 and perform detection and monitoring functions
based on the analyses. In some embodiments, computer vision system
114 or a portion thereof, resides inside TPD 102 and is capable of
analyzing images and video, as will be described below. Database
110 is configured to maintain profiles specific to TPD 102
pertaining to mobile computing devices that interact with TPD 102
allowing server 108, alone or in combination with computer vision
system 114, to retrieve data from database 110 and analyze data
associated with a mobile computing device present within vehicle
104 in addition to whether the mobile computing device has an
established connection with TPD 102. In one embodiment, server 108
is configured to deploy applicable software configured to TPD 102
to function based on one or more software applications receiving
interactions from the driver.
[0039] It is to be understood that the purpose of TPD 102 is to
ensure that there is no mobile computing device within vehicle 104
that is operating without being in linked communication with TPD
102, and if the mobile computing device is detected by TPD 102 but
is not in linked communication with TPD 102 (or cannot establish a
connection with TPD 102) then TPD 102 is configured to emit a
continuous alert via an audible alarming sound, an emitting of
light, or any other applicable alerting mechanism configured to be
heard by each occupant in vehicle 104 and further configured to
cease once a communicative link is established between TPD 102 and
the detected but unconnected mobile computing device 116. In one
embodiment, the alerting mechanism triggers TPD 102 to report the
incident of a detected and unconnected device to admin mobile
computing device 112, the central authority, or any other
applicable entity associated with the operations of TPD 102. It is
to be understood that examples of computing devices include a
laptop computer, a tablet computer, a smartphone, a media player, a
Personal Digital Assistant (PDA), and any other mechanism including
a processor and functionality capable of distracting a motorist
while vehicle 104 is in motion. System 100 illustrates only one of
many possible arrangements of components configured to perform the
functionality described herein. Other arrangements may include
fewer or different components, and the division of work between the
components may vary depending on the arrangement.
[0040] Server 108 may be implemented in hardware, software, or a
combination of hardware and software; however, the primary purpose
of server 108 is to ensure that information collected by TPD 102 is
formatted and received in a manner which is analyzable by the
central authority, via a downloadable report, in order to verify
mobile computing device activities occurring within vehicle 104. In
one embodiment, TPD 102 further includes an accelerator, gyroscope,
inertial measurement unit, or any other applicable mechanism
configured to calculate motion and/or speed of motion of vehicle
104. It is to be understood that the aforementioned features may
also be used by TPD 102 to gather driving parameters associated
with operations of vehicle 104, such as, but not limited to,
driving time, driving patterns, unnecessary braking, speed, erratic
driving, and any other applicable ascertainable information
associated with the operation of vehicle 104. In one embodiment,
TPD 102 is configured to detect the speed of vehicle 104 and, if
vehicle 104 exceeds a predetermined speed threshold, TPD 102
prevents applicable mobile computing devices in linked
communication with TPD 102 from transmitting and/or receiving
particular signal transmissions due to TPD 102 serving as a proxy
and/or intermediary device configured to intercept communications
on behalf of the mobile computing devices. In one embodiment, the
predetermined speed threshold is 5 mph; however, in some
embodiments the predetermined speed threshold is established by a
user associated with admin computing device 112. In one embodiment,
TPD 102 is configured to function until the engine and/or
applicable power source associated with vehicle 104 is powered off.
In one embodiment, TPD 102 is configured to notify the central
authority, via admin computing device 112, of the status of the
linked connection between the mobile computing device and TPD 102
upon vehicle 104 exceeding the predetermined speed threshold. For
example, server 108 may receive and relay to admin computing device
112 a notification that the link connection between TPD 120 and the
mobile computing device is "successfully established,"
"unsuccessful," or "not established," wherein TPD 120 continuously
emits the alarm sound if the link connection between TPD 120 and
the mobile computing device is anything except successful. It is to
be understood that TPD 120 will continue to emit the alarm sound
when there is a successful connection between TPD 120 and the
mobile computing device 116 only if there is one or more additional
mobile computing devices (secondary computing devices) within
vehicle 104 that have been detected by TPD 102, via at least the
sensor, thus prompting occupants within vehicle 104 who do not have
their mobile computing devices connected to TPD 102 to establish a
linked connection to TPD 102. It is to be understood that TPD 102
serves as the middle party between the client devices (the mobile
computing devices 116) and the applications (texting, calling,
browsing, etc.) that performs a service on requests and/or
responses. The proxy configuration for TPD 102 may be a half proxy,
full proxy, forward proxy, reverse proxy, or any other applicable
proxy configuration designed to accomplish the goals of this
disclosure. In a preferred embodiment, TPD 102 simultaneously
prevents all signals received and transmitted to the mobile
computing device that have not been explicitly included in a
"whitelist." The whitelist represents types of functions the mobile
computing device 116 can perform, either by itself or through TPD
102, serving as a proxy device. TPD 102 and/or server 108 can be
configured to manage the whitelist, including a plurality of
authorized contacts and a plurality of authorized activities to be
performed on mobile computing devices 116 while vehicle 104 is in
motion. It is to be understood that the whitelist may be designed
and configured based upon the preferences of the user of admin
computing device 112 and/or a central authority; however, TPD 102
may have a default setting in which only emergency calls to
emergency communication services are not intercepted/prevented by
TPD 102, allowing the mobile computing device to transmit and/or
receive communications to/from the applicable emergency
communication service. For example, the central authority may
specify that the mobile computing device associated with the
motorist may only receive and transmit incoming/outgoing calls
and/or texts from a specific telephone number associated with admin
computing device 112 in addition to the applicable emergency
communication service, such as a 911 dispatcher. Activities not
included on the whitelist are considered unauthorized activities,
wherein performance of the unauthorized activities on mobile
computing devices within vehicle 104 are prevented while vehicle
104 is exceeding the predetermined speed threshold if the
applicable mobile computing device is in connection with TPD 102.
Thus, all calls, texts, or other applicable mobile computing device
transmissions transmitted and/or received to/from the mobile
computing device that are not associated with the specific
telephone number associated with admin computing device 112 and/or
the applicable emergency communication service are received
directly by TPD 102 while vehicle 104 is in motion. These
transmissions are transmitted to the applicable party, such as
admin mobile computing device 112 and/or central authority, by TPD
102 once vehicle 104 has come to a stop. In addition, TPD 102 is
configured to interact with the on-board diagnostics (OBD) port of
vehicle 104 in order to pull vehicle information, e.g., determine
speed of the vehicle.
[0041] Although the term "text prevention device" is used herein,
TPD 102 is also capable of disabling/preventing many other forms of
communications, such as but not limited to phone-calls, text
messages, video telephony, browsing, or any other applicable action
on a mobile computing device that is capable of distracting a
motorist. Therefore, the term "text prevention device" and "TPD"
should not be interpreted as only preventing texting.
[0042] Referring now to FIG. 2, a top-view diagram of vehicle 104
including the system 100 for preventing operation of a mobile
computing device 116 is depicted, according to one embodiment. In
this embodiment, vehicle 104 includes a front sensor 202, a first
rear sensor 204, and a second rear sensor 206 wherein sensors
202-206 are communicatively coupled to TPD 102 (not shown) and
configured to be shaped, sized, and disposed to support wireless
signal triangulation in order to ensure that mobile computing
devices 116 detected by TPD 102 are limited to mobile computing
devices within the interior of vehicle 104. It is to be understood
that sensors 202-206 may be antennas allocated at ample distances
from each other within vehicle 104 configured to discover signals
from mobile computing devices within an area defined by sensors
202-206. In particular, the detection of phase difference between
at least two of sensors 202-206 may be used to determine which
direction a cellular signal is being transmitted from. The purpose
of sensors 202-206 is to avoid detection by TPD 102 of mobile
computing devices outside of vehicle 104. Sensors 202-206 support
phase detection or directional detection allowing TPD 102 to filter
and detect only mobile computing devices included within the
interior of vehicle (the area) 104. In one embodiment, sensors
202-206 may be utilized by TPD 102 to perform the aforementioned
features of the at least one sensor associated with TPD 102. Thus,
sensors 202-206 may be communicatively coupled to at least one of
TPD 102, vehicle 104, and/or computer vision system 114 wherein
data collected by sensors 202-206 is transmitted over network 106.
There can be also be more than three sensors 202-206 and they can
be located at any location within or on vehicle 104. In one
embodiment, front sensor 202 may also be a forward sensing camera
configured to acquire media, along with monitor and detect objects
and interactions occurring within the front of vehicle 104 in
real-time wherein acquired media may be collected and stored on the
storage mechanism and/or database 110 at various intervals. In one
embodiment, TPD 102 includes one or more cameras disposed and/or
integrated into TPD 102 wherein one camera acquires media occurring
within the front of vehicle 104 and the other cameras acquire media
occurring within vehicle 104 and transmits said media to server
108. In one embodiment, TPD 102 may include an emergency button
wherein pressing of the emergency button activates an emergency
operation mode in which TPD 102 functionality is disabled allowing
the driver to make a call to an emergency contact; however, upon
emergency operation mode being activated TPD 102 transmits a
notification along with media acquired from the aforementioned
sensors to server 108 allowing admin computing device 112 the
opportunity to review the conditions associated with activation of
emergency operation mode.
[0043] Referring now to FIG. 3, a block diagram depicting an
exemplary method 300 for connecting a mobile computing device to
TPD 102, according to one embodiment. At step 302, occupants enter
vehicle 104 each of which is presumed to have a mobile computing
device. It is to be understood that TPD 102 is configured to detect
if a particular occupant has more than one mobile computing device
based on signals being transmitted to/from said devices. However,
it is to be understood that TPD 102 may detect computing devices
and any other applicable electronics via utilizing a radio
frequency detector, field strength meter, or any other applicable
device configured to detect the presence or lack thereof of
electronics. At step 304, TPD 102 utilizes the at least one sensor
and/or sensors 202-206 to detect mobile computing devices
associated with the occupants within the interior of vehicle 104.
It is to be understood that TPD 102 is configured to be actively
searching for computing devices while TPD 102 is powered within
vehicle 104. At step 306, TPD 102 detects the mobile computing
devices within the interior of vehicle 104 via radio frequency or
other applicable signals being emitted from the mobile computing
devices. At step 308, TPD 102 and/or server 108 determines whether
mobile computing device 116 (in addition to the other detected
mobile computing devices) have previously connected with TPD 102
allowing TPD 102 to serve as a proxy device. If not, step 310
occurs in which TPD 102 prompts mobile computing device 116 to
connect to TPD 102 and subsequently step 314 occurs in which TPD
102 double-checks that mobile computing device 116 has accepted the
proxy connection with TPD 102. If so, step 312 occurs in which a
connection is established between mobile computing device 116 and
TPD 102. Referring back to step 314, if mobile computing device 116
accepts the proxy connection then step 312 occurs and the
connection is established between TPD 102 and the new device. If
mobile computing device 116 does not accept the proxy connection
then step 318 occurs in which TPD 102 emits the alert for all
occupants to be notified that a mobile computing device exists
within vehicle 104 and that TPD 102 is not connected to it. At step
316, TPD 102 verifies if all detected devices within vehicle 104
have been connected to TPD 102 and if not, step 118 occurs and the
notification of present but unconnected mobile devices within
vehicle 104 is emitted.
[0044] Referring now to FIG. 4, a block diagram 400 illustrating an
exemplary computer vision system 114 is depicted, according to an
embodiment of the present invention. It is to be understood that
computer vision system 114 may be utilized in real time and is
configured to utilize images and videos acquired from an applicable
sensor in addition to deep learning models in order to accurately
identify and classify objects with the captured images and videos.
In one embodiment, computer vision system 114 may include a media
capture device 402, an object detection module 404, an object
tracking module 406, an interaction tracking module 408, a sensor
module 410, and a computer vision database 412. In one embodiment,
sensor module 410, alone or in combination with the at least one
sensor and/or media capture device 402, may be utilized to capture
images and/or videos of the interior of vehicle 104 allowing object
detection module 404 and object tracking module 406 to detect the
presence and location of mobile computing devices within vehicle
104. One or more sensors of system 100 may be configured to perform
biometric detection such as face recognition, retinal scanning,
fingerprinting, or any other applicable mechanism for biological
sample-based identification. Collection of a plurality of media by
the applicable sensor of system 100 (at least one sensor, media
capture device 402, and/or sensor module 410) may be performed in
real time in specified increments of time wherein the frames and/or
records associated with the increments of time are configured to be
stored on the storage mechanism in order to support subsequent
review by the central authority. In one embodiment, interaction
tracking module 408 may be utilized, alone or in combination with
object detection module 404, to not only detect and monitor the eye
gaze or focal point of the motorist within vehicle 104, but also
analyze interactions between the motorist and the one or more
detected mobile computing devices in order to provide analytics and
micro-analytics associated with distractions and impairments
relating to the motorist. For example, if a mobile computing device
is detected within the interior of vehicle 104, whether the mobile
computing device is or is not communicatively linked with TPD 102,
interaction tracking module 408 is configured to track the amount
of instances and the amount of time associated with said instances
in which the eye gaze of the motorist is directed towards the
mobile computing device. This function allows admin mobile
computing device 112 to monitor and analyze the source and
frequency of distractions and impairments associated with the
motorist while operating vehicle 104. The aforementioned collected
data in addition to the analyses performed on the collected data is
designed to be stored and maintained on computer vision database
412 configured to be communicatively coupled to server 108 or may
simply be stored locally on the storage mechanism. In one
embodiment, sensors 202-206 are components of sensor module 410
allowing the detection of mobile computing devices within the
interior of vehicle 104 to be tracked via sessions (periods of time
in which the object detection module 404 is actively detecting
mobile computing devices within vehicle 104) wherein the sessions
and session data may be housed in computer vision database 412.
[0045] In one embodiment, TPD 102 is configured to verify the
identity of an occupant within vehicle 104 in real time based on
biometric data acquired by at least one of the sensors of system
100 wherein the at least one sensor, media capture device 402,
and/or sensor module 410 acquires the plurality of media and
identifies the occupant based on facial features such as contours
and profile of the occupant's face. The occupant is verified via
server 108 matching the facial features of the occupant to facial
features included in photos or videos of the occupant associated
with a social media account of the occupant. For example, TPD 102
may acquire an image of an occupant within vehicle 104 and verify
the identity of the occupant by comparing the acquired image to a
social media image of the occupant provided on the social media
account associated with the occupant. It is to be understood that
social media account may include but is not limited to Facebook,
Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, or any other platform including
images and videos that depict identifiable features of an
individual within applicable media. In one embodiment, data
associated with the identification of the occupant may be
transmitted over network 106 to admin mobile computing device 112
allowing the central authority to view and/or analyze the occupant
within vehicle 104.
[0046] Referring now to FIG. 5, a block diagram depicting an
exemplary method for preventing operation of a mobile computing
device while operating a moving vehicle 500, according to one
embodiment. At step 502, the automobile is turned on and TPD 102
begins to actively search for mobile computing devices operating
within the interior of vehicle 104 by sending one or more inquiry
signals to detect the presence of both mobile computing devices
that have previously connected with TPD 102 and new mobile
computing devices. If the automobile starts to move and TPD 102 was
not able to establish a connection with a detected mobile computing
device, then TPD 102 alerts occupants, server 108, and/or admin
computing device 112 of the lack of connection. In one embodiment,
if TPD 102 is installed in vehicle 104 and is not linked to a
mobile computing device then TPD 102 triggers media capture device
402 and captures a plurality of images and videos of the interior
of vehicle 104 in real-time. It is to be understood that the
purpose of TPD 102 in utilizing devices to scan the interior of
vehicle 104 is to acquire occupancy/vacancy information and mobile
computing device presence within the interior of vehicle 104;
however, in some embodiments, TPD 102 may utilize the at least one
sensor to detect occupants and mobile computing devices associated
with the occupants. For example, the at least one sensor may
utilize a first component to detect an occupant (via detected
heartbeat associated with vibrometry, detected temperature
associated with calorimetry, and/or via detected presence
associated with photoelectricity), and a second component to detect
the presence of mobile computing devices RF waves or any other
applicable signals being emitted from mobile computing devices
within vehicle 104. Upon detection of one or more occupants (via
face detection, sound detection, etc.) along with one or more
mobile computing devices within vehicle 104, TPD 102 establishes a
connection with the one or more mobile computing devices. In one
embodiment, pairing of TPD 102 and the mobile computing devices is
accomplished by an encrypted handshake such as but not limited to
Bluetooth pairing, magnetic induction, infrared, ultra wideband,
ZigBee, or any other applicable secure pairing known to those of
ordinary skill in the art. TPD 102 may further function as a Man in
the Middle (MITIM) between the mobile computing device and
applicable cellular network/tower in which TPD 102 eavesdrops or
modifies the traffic traveling between the two entities once the
mobile computing device is connected to TPD 102. In one embodiment,
TPD 102 and/or server 108 my prompt the driver for a vehicle trip
summary prior to the driver beginning operation of vehicle 104 in
which server 108 transmits the vehicle trip summary in addition to
the captured media to admin computing device 112 allowing the admin
the opportunity to verify the vehicle trip summary based on the
captured media. In one embodiment, TPD 102 and/or server 108 may be
configured to generate a vehicle trip diagnostic report based on
the collected media (via the aforementioned sensors) in order to
present collected data and perform analytics relating to activities
performed within vehicle 104 while in motion.
[0047] In TPD 102 establishing the connection with the mobile
computing device 116, TPD 102 has acknowledged that vehicle 104 has
exceeded the predetermined speed threshold and seeks to establish
the connection with the detected mobile computing devices within
the interior of vehicle 104 detected by TPD 102; otherwise, if
mobile computing devices are detected but not engaged in a
connection with TPD 102 then TPD 102 emits the alarm. In one
embodiment, TPD 102 may initiate the connection process with mobile
computing device by sending a prompt to an applicable mobile
computing device 116 requesting to serve as a proxy for signal
transmissions. At step 504, once a connection is established
between TPD 102 and the applicable mobile computing device then TPD
102 is assigned as the proxy device for the applicable mobile
computing device by receiving from the applicable mobile computing
device a primary proxy communication authority. It is to be
understood that a primary proxy communication authority is an
affirmation extended via the occupant associated with the
applicable mobile computing device to authorize TPD 102 to serve as
the controller of incoming and outgoing signal transmissions
associated with the applicable mobile computing device. At step
506, TPD 102 determines whether vehicle 104 is exceeding the
predetermine speed threshold; however, it is to be understood that
TPD 102 may perform this step prior to assigning itself as the
proxy device to the applicable mobile computing device. The purpose
of step 506 is to ensure that occupants are not actively using
mobile computing devices while vehicle 104 is in motion; thus,
eliminating any potential distractions to the driver of vehicle
104. In one embodiment, TPD 102 serving as a proxy for the
applicable mobile computing device 116 generates a reduced
functionality of the applicable mobile computing device wherein
access to particular functions of the applicable mobile computing
device 116 are deactivated by TPD 102. For example, when assigned
as a proxy to the applicable mobile computing device 116, TPD 102
may prevent data from being applied to certain applications running
on the applicable mobile computing devices such as but not limited
to messaging and voice over IP platforms, web browsing platforms,
content streaming platforms, and any other applicable application
or functionality associated with a computing device while
functionality of other applications may be untampered with by TPD
102, such as GPS applications. This way the applicable mobile
computing device can still send and/or receive signal transmissions
associated with applications and authorized contacts included on
the whitelist. In addition, TPD 102 may further be designed and
configured to prevent an occupant from disabling the proxying
feature of TPD 102 while vehicle 104 is in motion or actively log
that an occupant is attempting to circumvent the text prevention
features of TPD 102 and report the logging to the central
authority.
[0048] If TPD 102 detects that vehicle 104 is not in motion and is
not exceeding the predetermined speed threshold, then step 508
occurs in which TPD 102 allows the sent or received signal
transmission to be sent from or received by the applicable mobile
computing device. Otherwise, if the TPD 102 detects vehicle 104
exceeding the predetermined speed threshold then step 510 occurs in
which TPD 102, alone or in combination with server 108, determines
whether the applicable mobile computing device is attempting to
perform an action and/or functionality that is included on the
whitelist. If the attempted action/functionality is not included on
the whitelist, then step 512 occurs in which TPD 102 prevents the
function from occurring on the applicable mobile computing device.
In one embodiment, TPD 102 preserves the one or more signal
transmissions intended to be sent or received by the applicable
mobile computing device not included on the whitelist, wherein TPD
102 preserves or temporarily inhibits transmission of the one or
more signal transmissions until vehicle 104 does not exceed the
predetermined speed threshold resulting in the one or more signal
transmissions being sent or received to/from the applicable mobile
computing device. For example, if the applicable mobile computing
device receives a text message associated with an unauthorized
contact that is not included on the whitelist then TPD 102 receives
the text message and does not transmit the text message to the
applicable computing device until TPD 102 detects that the
predetermined speed threshold is not being exceeded. If the one or
more signal transmissions are included on the whitelist then step
514 occurs in which TPD 102 allows the function to occur on the
applicable mobile computing device. For example, if the applicable
mobile computing device receives a phone call from an authorized
contact included on the whitelist then TPD 102 will not proceed
with interfering with the transmission and allow the applicable
mobile computing device to receive it directly. At step 516, TPD
102 actively monitors and tracks the interior of vehicle 104 in
search of occupants and mobile computing devices not
communicatively linked to TPD 102. In one embodiment, TPD 102 may
utilize the at least one sensor to detect the amount of occupants
within vehicle 104 and require that the number of mobile computing
devices in vehicle 104 must be equal to at least the detected
amount of occupants, wherein if less mobile computing devices than
detected occupants in vehicle 104 are connected to TPD 102 then TPD
102 alerts admin mobile computing device 112 and/or the central
authority. The underlying approach of this feature is due to the
likelihood of an occupant of vehicle 104 having a mobile computing
device and having the ability to attempt to distract the operator
of vehicle 104 by impairing the vision and attention of the
operator via said mobile computing device. In one working example,
TPD 102 utilizes the at least one sensor to detect the total amount
of occupants in vehicle 104 via utilization of the at least one
sensor to capture a plurality of media and/or media capture device
402 allowing object detection module 404 to detect the mobile
computing devices, and TPD 102 and/or server 108 to determine if
the number of detected mobile computing devices is equal or greater
than the number of occupants in which a request to connect is
extended to each applicable mobile computing device via TPD 102,
and the alarming mechanism emits until each of the detected mobile
computing devices are connected to TPD 102. It is to be understood
that TPD 102 may perform the aforementioned step at any point
during method 500 and TPD 102 may utilized the at least one sensor
disposed on TPD 102 and/or components of computer vision system 100
in order to actively detect and monitor occupants of vehicle 104,
mobile computing devices present within vehicle 104, and mobile
computing device usage of occupants, via objecting tracking module
406 and/or interaction tracking module 408, while vehicle 104 is in
motion. In the configuration of system 100 where TPD 102 functions
strictly at a local level, the data acquired by TPD 102 and/or
components of computer vision 102 are stored in the storage
mechanism for analysis by admin computing device 112 and/or the
central authority. At step 518, TPD 102 determines whether
additional mobile computing devices are present within the interior
of vehicle 104 based on the aforementioned monitoring and detecting
step. If the one or more mobile computing devices are detected but
are not connected to TPD 102 and/or not attempting to respond to
the one or more inquiry signals transmitted by TPD 102 then step
516 occurs in which TPD emits the alert mechanism. Otherwise, TPD
allows the one or more signal transmissions from the mobile
computing device if the transmission is included on the whitelist.
Once vehicle 104 has come to a stop, TPD 102 is configured to
release the proxy connection with the mobile computing devices
allowing the mobile computing devices to maintain normal
functionality. In one embodiment, TPD 102 will emit a notification
that the session is done via an audio message from the speaker, a
text notification, or any other applicable form of
notification.
[0049] FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a system including an example
computing device 600 and other computing devices. Consistent with
the embodiments described herein, the aforementioned actions
performed by devices 102, server 108, and 112 may be implemented in
a computing device, such as the computing device 600 of FIG. 6. Any
suitable combination of hardware, software, or firmware may be used
to implement the computing device 600. The aforementioned system,
device, and processors are examples and other systems, devices, and
processors may comprise the aforementioned computing device.
Furthermore, computing device 600 may comprise an operating
environment for system 100 and method 500. Method 5, and data
related to said method may operate in other environments and are
not limited to computing device 600.
[0050] With reference to FIG. 6, a system consistent with an
embodiment of the invention may include a plurality of computing
devices, such as computing device 600. In a basic configuration,
computing device 600 may include at least one processing unit 602
and a system memory 604. Depending on the configuration and type of
computing device, system memory 604 may comprise, but is not
limited to, volatile (e.g. random access memory (RAM)),
non-volatile (e.g. read-only memory (ROM)), flash memory, or any
combination or memory. System memory 604 may include operating
system 605, and one or more programming modules 606. Operating
system 605, for example, may be suitable for controlling computing
device 600's operation. In one embodiment, programming modules 606
may include, for example, a program module 607 for executing the
actions of device 102, server 108, and 112, for example.
Furthermore, embodiments of the invention may be practiced in
conjunction with a graphics library, other operating systems, or
any other application program and is not limited to any particular
application or system. This basic configuration is illustrated in
FIG. 6 by those components within a dashed line 620.
[0051] Computing device 600 may have additional features or
functionality. For example, computing device 600 may also include
additional data storage devices (removable and/or non-removable)
such as, for example, magnetic disks, optical disks, or tape. Such
additional storage is illustrated in FIG. 6 by a removable storage
609 and a non-removable storage 610. Computer storage media may
include volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media
implemented in any method or technology for storage of information,
such as computer readable instructions, data structures, program
modules, or other data. System memory 604, removable storage 609,
and non-removable storage 610 are all computer storage media
examples (i.e. memory storage.) Computer storage media may include,
but is not limited to, RAM, ROM, electrically erasable read-only
memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM,
digital versatile disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic
cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic
storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store
information and which can be accessed by computing device 600. Any
such computer storage media may be part of device 600. Computing
device 600 may also have input device(s) 66 such as a keyboard, a
mouse, a pen, a sound input device, a camera, a touch input device,
etc. Output device(s) 614 such as a display, speakers, a printer,
etc. may also be included. The aforementioned devices are only
examples, and other devices may be added or substituted.
[0052] Computing device 600 may also contain a communication
connection 616 that may allow device 600 to communicate with other
computing devices 618, such as over a network in a distributed
computing environment, for example, an intranet or the Internet.
Communication connection 616 is one example of communication media.
Communication media may typically be embodied by computer readable
instructions, data structures, program modules, or other data in a
modulated data signal, such as a carrier wave or other transport
mechanism, and includes any information delivery media. The term
"modulated data signal" may describe a signal that has one or more
characteristics set or changed in such a manner as to encode
information in the signal. By way of example, and not limitation,
communication media may include wired media such as a wired network
or direct-wired connection, and wireless media such as acoustic,
radio frequency (RF), infrared, and other wireless media. The term
computer readable media as used herein may include both computer
storage media and communication media.
[0053] As stated above, a number of program modules and data files
may be stored in system memory 604, including operating system 605.
While executing on processing unit 602, programming modules 606
(e.g. program module 607) may perform processes including, for
example, one or more of the stages of the processes 600 and 700 as
described above. The aforementioned processes are examples, and
processing unit 602 may perform other processes. Other programming
modules that may be used in accordance with embodiments of the
present invention may include electronic mail and contacts
applications, word processing applications, spreadsheet
applications, database applications, slide presentation
applications, drawing or computer-aided application programs,
etc.
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