Patent ID: 7450961
Filing Date: 2008-11-11
Classification: B60K,G01C,G02B,H04M

Abstract:
1. Apparatus for displaying information from a portable communications device, having a data output port and a scrollable display, on a remote projection display device having a data input port, the apparatus comprising: a first data port associated with a cradle for receiving the portable communications device, the first data port adapted to be coupled to the data output port of the portable communications device, the first data port for receiving remote data from the portable communications device, the remote data including remote audio data and remote visual data; a second data port that is adapted to be coupled to the data input port of the remote projection display device, the second data port coupled to a voltage control switch that senses a voltage when the portable communications device is received by the cradle, wherein automatically, upon placement of the portable communications device into the cradle, the second data port provides to the remote projection display device a representation of the remote visual data received from and displayed by the portable communications device; and a processor coupled to the first data port and to the second data port, the processor establishing two-way communication between the portable communications device and the remote projection display device, wherein when a message is received at the portable communications device, then the processor exchanges the message with the remote projection display device and the remote projection display device displays the message, and after a predetermined period of inactivity then the processor ends two-way communication between the portable communications device and the remote projection display device, and when the portable communications device is removed from the cradle, then the processor commands the remote projection display device to resume displaying a speedometer input; wherein the apparatus is configured to receive scrolling commands from a scroll controller, the scroll controller being adapted to cause the remote projection display device to provide a scrolling display of information that is simultaneously displayed on the scrollable display of the portable communications device such that the portable communications device and the remote projection display present the same information; wherein the scroll controller comprises a scrolling control device that is integrated into an automobile steering wheel and is adapted to be electrically coupled to the remote projection display device and to the portable communications device such that the scrolling control device also controls the portable communications device and scrolls along the scrollable display of the portable communications device; wherein the apparatus is also configured to receive commands from a display controller, the display controller being adapted to cause the remote projection display device to turn on and off the displayed information; wherein the display controller also comprises a control device that is integrated into the automobile steering wheel and is adapted to be electrically connected to the remote projection display device; wherein the cradle includes an audio serial port for receiving the remote audio data, a speaker for outputting the remote audio data, and a microphone for receiving audio data that is to be sent back through the portable communications device; and wherein the cradle is also adapted to couple to a hands-free kit, such that when the cradle couples to the hands-free kit the hands-free kit outputs the remote audio data and receives the audio data that is to be sent back through the portable communications device.