Travis L Grenell

US Patent:

20090018731, Jan 15, 2009

Filed:

Jul 12, 2007

Appl. No.:

11/776685

Inventors:

Travis L. Grenell - Currie NC, US
Kevin J. Bart - Grand Rapids MI, US
Charles E. Lippert - Grand Rapids MI, US

Assignee:

MOBILE OFFICE, INC. - Grand Rapids MI

International Classification:

G06F 19/00
G05D 1/00
G06F 3/01

US Classification:

701 51, 701 1, 701213, 701 70, 701 93, 701 99

Abstract:

A computer control system includes methods and devices for disabling an electronic device, such as a computer, when a mobility status of the vehicle changes. The mobility status may be measured with reference to the vehicle's transmission, parking brake, odometer, speedometer, throttle, engine rpm, or a geographic locating system such as a GPS system. When the mobility status of the vehicle changes to one in which the vehicle is moving, or is more likely to move, the control system disables the electronic device. The control system thus prevents drivers of automobiles and trucks from simultaneously driving while using the electronic device. The system may include one or more override keys and enabling hubs that allow a person to use the device in locations remote from the automobile. The system may also allow the device to be used when it is inside the vehicle but the vehicle's engine has been turned off. The software used by the system includes multiple security features adapted to prevent people from disabling the software such that they would be able to simultaneously drive and use the electronic device.