Patent Publication Number: US-2022227332-A1

Title: Hazard display on vehicle&#39;s docked smart device

Description:
TECHNICAL FIELD 
     The present invention is related to docking a smart device in a vehicle. More specifically, it relates to a system, method and vehicle for incorporating control and display features of a smart device into the vehicle. 
     BACKGROUND 
     These days, smart devices have a major role in our daily life. The influx of information to these devices allows us to have a better control over how we use things generally. Display screens associated with vehicles have brought a series of improvements in the way we use our vehicles. For example, the implementation of a rear-view camera in a car for facilitating parking maneuvers is a valuable improvement for the drivers. Also, smart devices can be paired with vehicles to allow drivers to listen to the music stored on their devices or to make hands-free telephone calls while driving. 
     Today, motorcycle display system technology employs liquid crystal display panels capable of displaying vehicle information using a limited color palette. These types of display are fixed onto the motorcycle and are normally not user-removable. Moreover, running a software update on these systems can be difficult or impossible because of limited connectivity or access. 
     This background is not intended, nor should be construed, to constitute prior art against the present invention. 
     SUMMARY OF INVENTION 
     The present invention is related to a vehicle docking system that integrates a smart device or smartphone in the functioning of the vehicle. A docking station holds and connects the smart device to the vehicle. Information regarding the vehicle&#39;s status is provided to the connected smart device. The smart device can be used to control aspects of the vehicle. The smart device is fully removable from the docking station after being connected to it. 
     The invention involves a mount or holder for the smart device that supplies communications and power through a wired or wireless connection. Through an authentication process using an encrypted communication network, the smart device can be used to enable the ignition, for example. The integration of the smart device, when in the docking station, with the vehicle safety system allows it to provide alerts directly, or via the vehicle&#39;s speakers, display and/or haptic feedback devices such as vibration motors. 
     As an alternative method of authenticating the user, the smart device&#39;s tactile and facial recognition functions can be used to verify a user&#39;s identity and usage profile. 
     The smart device functions, or its presence serves, to operate one or more features of the vehicle, such as controlling a feature related to driving the vehicle, displaying information that would normally be displayed by an instrument cluster of a typical vehicle, or receiving an input that is used to control the vehicle. 
     The invention is described in relation to a motorcycle in particular, however, the invention may also be applied to other types of vehicle. Vehicles may be gasoline, diesel, ethanol, electric, hybrid, etc. 
     Disclosed herein is a system for operation of a vehicle with a personal communication device comprising: a docking station mounted in a cockpit of the vehicle, the docking station dimensioned to hold the personal communication device; and a control module that is mounted in the vehicle and communicatively connected to: an engine control unit (ECU) of the vehicle; and the personal communication device, when the personal communication device is in the docking station; wherein the control module comprises a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable memory storing computer-readable instructions which, when executed by the processor cause the control module to: detect a presence of the personal communication device in the docking station; authenticate the personal communication device in response to detecting its presence; send, in response to authenticating the personal communication device, a command to the ECU to enable an ignition of the vehicle; receive a parameter of the vehicle from the ECU; and transmit the parameter to the personal communication device for display on the personal communication device. 
     Also disclosed is a method for operating a vehicle with a personal communication device comprising: detecting, by a control module, a presence of the personal communication device in a docking station mounted in a cockpit of the vehicle, wherein the control module is mounted in the vehicle and communicatively connected to an engine control unit (ECU) of the vehicle; authenticating, by the control module, the personal communication device in response to detecting its presence; sending, by the control module, in response to authenticating the personal communication device, a command to the ECU to enable an ignition of the vehicle; receiving, by the control module, a parameter of the vehicle from the ECU; and transmitting the parameter to the personal communication device for display on a user interface thereof. 
     Further disclosed is a vehicle that uses a personal communication device for operation of at least one function of the vehicle comprising: a docking station mounted in a cockpit of the vehicle, the docking station dimensioned to hold the personal communication device; and a control module that is mounted in the vehicle and communicatively connected to: an engine control unit (ECU) of the vehicle; and the personal communication device, when the personal communication device is in the docking station; wherein the control module comprises a processor and a non-transitory computer-readable memory storing computer-readable instructions which, when executed by the processor cause the control module to: detect a presence of the personal communication device in the docking station; authenticate the personal communication device in response to detecting its presence; send, in response to authenticating the personal communication device, a command to the ECU to enable an ignition of the vehicle; receive a parameter of the vehicle from the ECU; and transmit the parameter to the personal communication device for display thereon. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The following drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention, which should not be construed as restricting the scope of the invention in any way. 
         FIG. 1  is a drawing representing a motorcycle equipped with an empty smart device docking station as seen from the rider&#39;s perspective, according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a drawing representing a motorcycle equipped with a smart device docking station with a smart device positioned in it as seen from the rider&#39;s perspective, with a close-up of the smart device docking station, according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 3  is a drawing representing another smart device docking station according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4  is a drawing representing a further smart device docking station according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  is a drawing representing yet another smart device docking station according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6  is a diagram representing the interaction between the smart device, a control module and the ignition system, according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7  is a block diagram representing various components of the smart device according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8  is a block diagram representing various components of the control module according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 9  is a block diagram representing a first configuration of a docking system, showing connections between a smart device, a control module and various other devices according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a block diagram representing a second configuration of a docking system, showing connections between a primary display of the motorcycle, a smart device, a control module and various other devices according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 11  is a block diagram representing communication between a primary display, a control module and various other devices, according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 12  is a basic flowchart representing the relationship between a hazard detection and its notification, according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 13  is a flowchart representing key steps taken by the docking system when the smart device is connected to the docking station, according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 14  is a flowchart representing an example of the key steps for displaying various data by the docking system, according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     DESCRIPTION 
     A. Glossary 
     The term “smart device” refers to a smartphone, an electronic tablet, or other personal electronic communication device equipped with a touchscreen or other user interface, which is able to communicate wirelessly and that can be programmed with processor-executable applications. 
     The term “engine control unit (ECU)” refers to the computer that controls and monitors various components and states of an engine. 
     The term “GPS” refers to global positioning system. 
     The term “haptic” refers to both the sense of touch (tactile feedback) and the ability to detect shape and forces (kinesthetic feedback). Tactile feedback is used to detect surface texture, temperature and vibrations, for example. Kinesthetic feedback is used to detect changes in shape, motion, forces and weights. 
     The term “module” can refer to any component in this invention and to any or all of the features of the invention without limitation. A module may be a software, firmware or hardware module, and may include one or more processors and computer-readable memories. 
     The term “processor” is used to refer to any electronic circuit or group of circuits that perform calculations, and may include, for example, single or multicore processors, multiple processors, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), and dedicated circuits implemented, for example, on a reconfigurable device such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). The processor performs the steps in the flowcharts, whether they are explicitly described as being executed by the processor or whether the execution thereby is implicit due to the steps being described as performed by code or a module. The processor, if comprised of multiple processors, may be located together or separate from each other. 
     The term “rider” refers to the person who drives or controls a motorcycle, and is to be distinguished from a person who rides pillion on the motorcycle or otherwise as a passenger. 
     The term “RPM” refers to revolutions per minute, for example of a motorcycle engine. 
     The term “V2X” refers to technology that allows a vehicle to communicate with any moving device that may affect it, such as another vehicle or a pedestrian&#39;s smart device, and static objects such as traffic lights and buildings, as well as communication with a communications network or a power grid. 
     B. Exemplary Embodiments 
     Referring to  FIG. 1 , a front portion or cockpit  10  of a motorcycle  12  is shown with a docking station  14  having a docking recess  18 , mounted on the dashboard  22 . The docking station  14  is located on the motorcycle dashboard  22  in such a way that the docking station replaces one or more of the common gauges in the instrument cluster such as the speed gauge. Referring to  FIG. 2 , there is shown the motorcycle cockpit  12  with a close-up view of the docking station  14 . A smart device  32  (e.g. personal communication device), which acts as the key to the motorcycle, is inserted in the docking recess  18  in the docking station  14 . A rubber gasket  34  or other retaining component is located between the smart device  32  and the docking recess  18  in order to hold the smart device in position in the docking recess. The rubber gasket  34  facilitates the stabilization of the smart device position in the docking station  14  during the motorcycle ride, for example. During a motorcycle ride, the motorcycle  12  is subjected to vibrations or shocks that would otherwise disturb the position of the smart device  32  in the docking station  14 . This may be detrimental to the quality of the communication between the smart device  32  and the rider of the motorcycle, and potentially between the smart device and a control module of the docking system. 
     The screen  36  of the smart device  32  permits the use of user-customizable displays in order to optimize vehicle information placement. Such information may include, for example, the motorcycle&#39;s speed, RPM, coolant temperature and odometer. The screen  36  may also be used to provide vehicle navigational instructions using the smart device&#39;s GPS. The screen  36  may also provide non-vehicle information such as traffic and weather information. 
     The smart device  32  is in some embodiments configured to dynamically display different information on the screen  36  depending on the motorcycle speed and activity. In some embodiments, the smart device  32  provides a supplemental display to a motorcycle that has a permanent, fixed screen. 
     Docking the smart device  32  also allows the smart device to be conveniently charged while docked to the dashboard  22 . The smart device  32  may be charged via wireless charging or via wired charging, depending on the embodiment of the invention. 
     Besides the provision of information to the rider, the smart device integration with the motorcycle allows the smart device  32  to be used for logging of vehicle information, rider statistics, and system alerts. The smart device  32  may act as an internet gateway to connect the motorcycle  12  to a data cloud server where logged data is stored and analyzed. The smart device  32  may provide vehicle-to-vehicle communications with other motorcycles equipped with a similar docking station  14  and its associated technology. 
     The smart device  32 , when present in the docking station  14 , operates in some embodiments as a wireless key to unlock the motorcycle&#39;s ignition system. 
     Referring to  FIG. 3 , there is shown an exemplary embodiment of the docking station  50  with a smart device  32  inserted. The docking station  50  has a lower, fixed gripping portion  54  and an upper, movable gripping portion  56 , which can be moved upwards in the direction of the arrows  58 ,  59 . In some embodiments, the docking station  50  has one or more springs (not shown) that bias the upper gripping portion  56  downwards to exert a gripping force on the smart device  32 . The sprung upper gripping portion  56 , in conjunction with the lower gripping portion  54 , operate to retain the smart device  32  in place in the docking station  50 . The inner surfaces of the gripping portions  54 ,  56  are in some embodiments lined with a high-friction liner, such as rubber, to help retain or lock the smart device  32  in place. 
     When the upper gripping portion  56  of the docking station  50  is raised, the smart device  32  can be removed sideways out of the docking station in the direction of arrow  60 , to position  32 A, and then reinserted when next required. 
     As the gripping portions  54 ,  56  of the docking station  50  are sprung together, the docking station is effectively expandable so that it can host smart devices  32  of different sizes. The docking station  50  is also able to accommodate smart devices  32  with different sizes of case (not shown). 
     When docked in the docking station  50 , the smart device  32  is, for example, connected to the docking station via a USB port. For example, the smart device  32  is connected to a connector on a cable (not visible) that is accessible between the lower and upper gripping portions  54 ,  56 . In other embodiments, the connector to which the smart device  32  connects is rigidly or semi-rigidly fixed in the docking station  50  in a position that aligns with the corresponding connector socket on the smart device. The smart device  32  may be charged via the cable as well as the cable providing a bi-directional communication link between the smart device  32  and the docking station  50 . 
     In some embodiments, the docking station  50  is configured to accommodate a custom smart device case, in which the rider&#39;s smart device  32  is held. In this example, the smart device  32  is positioned in the case so that the necessary connections are properly made to the docking station  50  when the case with smart device are inserted as a unit into the docking station. 
     In some embodiments, the smart device  32  is communicatively connected to the docking station  50  via a Bluetooth™ connection. In some embodiments, other types of connectivity between the docking station  50  and the smart device  32  are used. 
     A gauge  62 , e.g. an RPM meter, which forms part of the instrument cluster of the motorcycle, is shown on a display area  64  at the left side of the docking station  50 . The display area  64  also includes indicator lights  66 , which, for example, may be a turn-signal indicator, an engine warning light or a low-fuel warning light. In this example, the smart device  32  provides a supplementary display to the built-in display  64  of the motorcycle, which may also be supplementary to another display in another portion of the instrument cluster of the motorcycle. In other embodiments, the display area  64  of the docking station  50  acts as a second screen for the smart device  32 . In this case, the gauge  62  is directly connected to the smart device  32  when the smart device is inserted into the docking station  50 . The display area  64  can also be configured to represent other engine parameters according to the preference of the rider. 
     The battery of the smart device  32  may recharge wirelessly when the smart device is inserted in the docking station  50 , if wireless recharging station is included in the docking station. 
     Referring to  FIG. 4 , there is shown another exemplary embodiment of the docking station  80 . The docking station  80  has a frame with a fixed portion  82  and a sliding portion that forms a handle  84 . The handle  84  of the frame is pulled out from the docking station  80 , to position  84 A, in order to slide the smart device  32  from position  32 B into the docking station in the direction of arrow  86 . Then, the handle  84  of the frame is set back into the docking station  80  in order to lock the smart device  32  in position. 
     When docked in the docking station  80 , the smart device  32  is connected to the docking station via a USB port or via a Bluetooth™ connection. In some embodiments, other types of connectivity between the docking station  80  and the smart device  32  are used. 
     For example, the smart device  32  is connected to a connector on a cable that is accessible from within the fixed portion  82  of the frame of the docking station  80 . In some embodiments, the docking station  80  is configured to accommodate a custom smart device case, in which the rider&#39;s smart device  32  is held. The smart device  32  is positioned in the case so that the necessary connections are properly made to the docking station  80  when the case with smart device are inserted as a unit into the docking station. 
     A gauge  90 , e.g. an RPM meter, which forms part of the instrument cluster of the motorcycle, is shown on a display area  92  at left side of the docking station  80 . In this example, the smart device  32  provides a supplementary display to the built-in display of the motorcycle. In other embodiments, the display area  92  of the docking station  80  acts as a second screen for the smart device  32 . In this case, the gauge  90  is directly connected to the smart device  32  when the smart device is inserted into the docking station  80 . 
     Referring  FIG. 5 , there is shown a further exemplary embodiment of the docking station  100 . In this embodiment, the smart device  32  is inserted from position  32 C and slid downwards into the top part of the docking station  100 . Slots in the docking station at either side of the smart device  32  retain the smart device in position. The fit is a snug or snap fit so that the smart device  32  is not loose. The smart device  32  is removed by pulling it upwards and away from the docking station  100 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 6 , a smart device  32  that is locked in a docking station  14  interacts with the control module  110  of the docking system. The control module  110  is also connected, via the engine control unit (ECU)  111  to the engine starter  112  or power-on switch. When the smart device  32  is docked in the docking station  14 , it sends data directly to the control module  110 . In response, after authentication of the smart device, the control module  110  commands the ECU  111  to enable the engine starter  112 , allowing it to be activated by the rider. In some cases, the presence of the smart device  32  in the docking station  14  switches on the accessories of the motorcycle without the rider having to do anything other than to insert the smart device. The communication between the smart device  32 , and the control module  110  is achieved wirelessly. The communication between the control module  110 , the ECU  111  and the engine starter switch  112  is wired. In some embodiments, the connection between the smart device  32  and the control module  110  is wired. 
     When the smart device  32  is placed in the docking station  14 , an authentication process is run, either directly with the smart phone  32  or though an encrypted communication network that verifies the legitimacy of the smart device  32 . Authentication may involve the verification of an RFID (radio-frequency identification) tag in the smart device  32  or via near-field communications between the docking station and the smart device. 
     A further authentication step may be included to verify the identity of the rider, as the second step in a two-factor authentication process. 
     When the authentication is achieved, the control module  110  sends a command to the ECU  111  to enable the ignition switch  112  of the engine of the motorcycle so that it can be activated by the rider, who is the person who owns or has permission to use the smart device, or who was authenticated during the two-factor authentication process. In some embodiments, the smart device&#39;s tactile sensors (e.g. fingerprint detector) or facial recognition functions are used to verify the rider&#39;s identity and optionally usage profile. 
     Referring to  FIG. 7 , components of the smart device  32  are shown. The smart device  32  includes a processor  114  that is connected to computer readable memory  115  in which are stored processor-executable instructions in the form of one or more programs  116  or applications, such as a Damon™ application. A program  116 , when executed by the processor  114  provides, complements or communicates the functionality of one or more of the features of the docking system when the smart device  32  is docked in the docking station  14 . For example, engine controls or engine-related information are displayed on the screen  36  of the smart device  32 . Data  117  is also stored in the memory  115  and may be used by the processor  114  to authenticate the rider and provide one or more of the features of the docking system when the smart device is docked in it. Data  117  may also include data that is logged by the control module  110 , such as engine parameters, vehicle parameters, trip parameters and hazards detected. 
     One or more interfaces  118  are connected to the processor  114 . Interfaces  118  include, for example, a Bluetooth™ wireless transceiver, and a USB connector. 
     Referring to  FIG. 8 , components of the control module  110  of the docking system are shown. The control module (for example, a Damon™ control module) includes a processor  120  that is connected to computer readable memory  122  in which are stored processor-executable instructions in the form of one or more programs  124  or applications. A program  124 , when executed by the processor  120  provides the functionality of one or more of the features of the docking system, such as engine control features or retrieval of engine-related information for display on the screen  36  of the smart device  32 . Data  126  is also stored in the memory  122  and may be used by the processor  120  to authenticate the rider and provide one or more of the features of the docking system. Data  126  may also include data that is logged by the control module  110 , such as engine parameters, vehicle parameters, trip parameters and hazards detected. 
     One or more interfaces  128  are connected to the processor  120 . Interfaces  128  include, for example, a Bluetooth™ wireless transceiver, a USB connector, a connection to the ECU, a connection to a sensor, and a connection to a haptic feedback device. 
     Referring to  FIG. 9 , there is shown the various modules that make up an exemplary docking system  130  with a smart device  32  that interacts with the control module  110  of the docking system. The control module  110  may be embedded in the docking station  14 , or it may be located elsewhere on the motorcycle and connected via a wired connection to the docking station. The smart device  32  receives power from the control module  110 , while data are exchanged on a bi-directional communication link between the smart device and the control module. The control module collects various data from sensors  132 , cameras  134  and the motorcycle ECU  111 . The control module  110  also collects data through wireless connectivity module  136  from devices that can be connected wirelessly to the control module via the wireless connectivity module. 
     Information such as radar, temperature, pressure and audio are collected from the onboard motorcycle sensors  132  by the control module  110 . These sensors feed the smart display on the screen  36  of the smart device  32 , providing information such as the speed, RPM, vehicle telematics, front and/or rear camera feed, GPS location, gear indicator, turn signal indication, neutral gear indication, battery level, regenerative braking level, charge indication, left and right lane mirror information from camera feed, and engine check warning indicator. In some embodiments, the control module  110  triggers haptic devices, lights, visual displays and/or vibrations as feedback mechanisms in order to provide an alert to the rider of the vehicle. 
     The smart device  32  is used in the operation of the motorcycle  12 , e.g. by enabling the ignition of the motorcycle, by displaying one or more parameters of the motorcycle that have been obtained from the ECU  111  and that would normally be displayed on an instrument cluster, and by receiving inputs from a rider to control one or more operating functions of the motorcycle. 
     Referring to  FIG. 10 , there is shown an exemplary embodiment of a docking system  150 , where the smart device  32  is configured as a secondary display. The smart device  32  is secondary to a primary display  152  that is integrated in the motorcycle during manufacture. The control module  160  may be embedded in the docking station  14  or it may be located elsewhere on the motorcycle and connected via a wired connection to the docking station. The smart device  32  receives power from the control module  160 , while data are exchanged on a bi-directional communication link between the smart device  32  and the control module. The primary display  152  receives power from the control module  160 , while data are exchanged on a bi-directional communication link between the primary display  152  and the control module. The control module collects various data from sensors  132 , cameras  134  and the motorcycle ECU  111 . The control module  160  also collects data through wireless connectivity module  136  from devices that can be connected wirelessly to the control module. 
     The primary display  152 , which usually forms part of the motorcycle as manufactured, shows the information gathered from the ECU  168 , while the smart device  32  shows supplementary information such as GPS location, maps, front or rear camera feed, left and right mirror information, or vehicle telematics. The secondary display, i.e. the smart device  32 , may also display some of the information that would normally be displayed on a primary display in the absence of a docked smart device. 
     Referring to  FIG. 11 , there is shown another use of the control module  180 . In this embodiment, all the information collected by the control module  180  from the sensors  132 , cameras  134 , devices communicating via wireless connectivity module  136 , ECU  111  and other peripherals is displayed in one page or a series of pages that the rider configures for his specific needs. In this example, the primary display  172  is either the screen that is included with the motorcycle at manufacture or the screen  36  of the smart device  32 . The control module  180  has the ability to dynamically switch the information on the primary display  172  based on the context of a user&#39;s riding situation. For example, when the vehicle has stopped at an intersection, the primary display automatically switches to display the information provided by the rear camera. Once the motorcycle is back in motion, then the information switches back to speed, RPM, or other vehicle information that the rider desires. 
     When the above applies to the use of a smart device  32  to provide the primary display  172 , the components  170  form the docking system. 
     The ability to dynamically switch the page displayed also applies to a smart device  32  when the smart device is used as a secondary display. 
     Referring to  FIG. 12 , a process carried out by a docking system  130  is shown. In step  200 , one or more of the sensors  132  sense or detect the environment of the motorcycle and/or one or more operational parameters of the motorcycle, and/or one or more of the cameras  134  capture images or videos of or detect the environment of the motorcycle. In step  202 , the control module  110  receives signals from the sensors  132  and/or camera  134 . In step  204 , the control module  110  analyzes the signals received from the sensors  132  and cameras  134 . In step  206 , the control module  110  determines that the signals represent a hazard to the motorcycle rider. 
     In response to the control module  110  making the determination of the hazard, then, in step  208 , the control module sends a notification to the smart device  32 , which displays the hazard information on its screen  36 . In some embodiments, the smart device  32  displays recommendations in relation to the hazard notification. For example, the smart device may display recommendations such as switch lane, brake or change itinerary. 
     In other embodiments, a hazard is detected by analyzing the data feed received via the wireless connectivity module  136 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 13 , a process is shown for the use of the smart device  32  in the docking system  130 . The smart device  32  is docked in the docking station  14  in step  220 , by the rider. The system proceeds to authentication of the rider in step  224 . After that, when the rider is recognized by the smart device  32 , the motorcycle ignition system is enabled by the control module  110  in step  228 . The rider is then able to switch on the ignition, and does so in step  232 . Then, in step  236 , the data from various devices mounted on the motorcycle such as the cameras  134  and the sensors  132  are logged in the control module  110  in order for the current status of the motorcycle to be displayed on the smart device  32 . In other embodiments, the display of the data or information derived from the data may be displayed on a primary display  152 , or on the smart device  32  operating as a secondary screen. 
     The docked smart device  32  can also perform the functions of a data logging device to capture information obtained from the motorcycle. Activation of this feature is through the smart device&#39;s application software  116  that allows the smart device  32  to connect to the control module  110 . In this way, the smart device  32  acts as a redundant backup data logger, supplemental data logger adding storage expansion, and/or additional logging capability for third party devices, such as motorcycle HUD (heads-up display) helmet, action cameras, Bluetooth™ devices, other sensors not forming part of sensors  132 , etc. 
     Referring to  FIG. 14 , there is shown an example of how the docking system  130  intelligently displays information. In step  250 , after the smart device  32  has been docked in the docking station  14 , the rider authenticated and the ignition started, the smart device displays the word “ON”, for example, as the smart device receives the confirmation from the control module  110  that the motorcycle ignition has been started. If the motorcycle is electric, then the “ON” signal represents that the motorcycle is ready to pull away. Then, the motorcycle starts moving when the rider activates the accelerator in step  254 . After that, the display of the smart device  32  switches to showing the speed of the motorcycle in step  258 . When the rider brakes and stops the motorcycle, in step  262 , the display of the smart device  32  switches to displaying the rear view camera image to facilitate any parking maneuvers or to display any vehicles that may be behind the motorcycle, in step  266 . Other informational screens (e.g. navigation, remote video) can also be displayed according to the activity or mode of the motorcycle, while the smart device  32  is docked in the docking system  130 . 
     C. Variations 
     While particular examples of a docking station  14  have been given, other physical arrangements may be used in other embodiments for mounting or holding the smart device  32  in position on the motorcycle  12 . 
     The docked smart device  32  can provide vehicle-to-vehicle, mobile device-to-mobile device, and/or vehicle-to-mobile device connectivity to other vehicles with similar docked smart devices. Information transferred from one device and/or one vehicle can include vehicle statistics, alerts, bearings and directions of other vehicles, weather, traffic and rider information, for example. 
     As a supplemental wireless connectivity source, supplementary to wireless connectivity module  136 , the docked smart device  32  can provide a bridge between the control module  110  installed on the motorcycle and a remote data storage (e.g. a remote server) and analysis service (e.g. Damon™ Data Cloud) by acting as an internet gateway using its own cellular radio to establish this connection. 
     The GPS navigation system may be incorporated into the program  116  (e.g. Damon™ application). 
     The display on screen  36  may be transmitted to another screen that is remote from the motorcycle. Camera feeds from the various cameras  134  on the motorcycle may also be transmitted to another remote screen for display thereon. The other, remote screens may be on tablets, laptops, other smart phones, desktop computers or custom display modules, for example. 
     The docking system disclosed herein may be used in cars, trucks and other vehicles. 
     In general, unless otherwise indicated, singular elements may be in the plural and vice versa with no loss of generality. The use of the masculine can refer to masculine, feminine or both. 
     Sending a signal can be interpreted to be either the actual creation of a signal that is transmitted from a sensor or the ceasing of a signal that is being created by and transmitted from the sensor. Either way, the change in output of the sensor can be interpreted as a signal. A null signal may also be considered to be a signal. The signal may, for example, be a change in voltage, resistance, capacitance or current. 
     Throughout the description, specific details have been set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the invention. However, the invention may be practiced without these particulars. In other instances, well known elements have not been shown or described in detail and repetitions of steps and features have been omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the invention. Accordingly, the specification is to be regarded in an illustrative, rather than a restrictive, sense. 
     The detailed description has been presented partly in terms of methods or processes, symbolic representations of operations, functionalities and features of the invention. These method descriptions and representations are the means used by those skilled in the art to most effectively convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art. A software implemented method or process is here, and generally, understood to be a self-consistent sequence of steps leading to a desired result. These steps require physical manipulations of physical quantities. Often, but not necessarily, these quantities take the form of electrical or magnetic signals or values capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared, and otherwise manipulated. It will be further appreciated that the line between hardware and software is not always sharp, it being understood by those skilled in the art that the software implemented processes described herein may be embodied in hardware, firmware, software, or any combination thereof. Such processes may be controlled by coded instructions such as microcode and/or by stored programming instructions in one or more tangible or non-transient media readable by a computer or processor. The code modules may be stored in any computer storage system or device, such as hard disk drives, optical drives, solid state memories, etc. The methods may alternatively be embodied partly or wholly in specialized computer hardware, such as ASIC or FPGA circuitry. 
     It will be clear to one having skill in the art that further variations to the specific details disclosed herein can be made, resulting in other embodiments that are within the scope of the invention disclosed. Steps may be added to the flowcharts, or one or more steps may be removed without altering the main function of the invention. Flowcharts from different figures may be combined in different ways. Flowcharts described in relation to one module may be applied to other similar modules. Modules may be divided into constituent modules or combined into larger modules. All parameters and configurations described herein are examples only and actual ones of such depend on the specific embodiment. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is to be construed in accordance with the substance defined by the following claims.