US 9147296

US Patent 9147296: Customization of Vehicle Controls and Settings Based on User Profile Data

Summary:

US Patent 9147296, titled "Customization of vehicle controls and settings based on user profile data," was issued on September 29, 2015. The patent was filed by Flextronics AP LLC on April 15, 2014, and lists Christopher P. Ricci as the inventor. The current assignee is AutoConnect Holdings LLC.

Abstract:

The patent describes a system and method for customizing vehicle controls and settings based on user profile data. It involves identifying a user of a vehicle, retrieving user profile data associated with the identified user, and then automatically adjusting vehicle controls and settings according to this retrieved data. The system can also receive input from the user regarding the adjusted settings and update the user profile data accordingly.

Plain-Language Overview of Independent Claims:

• Independent Claim 1 (Method Claim): This claim describes a method for customizing a vehicle. The method involves several steps:

  1. Identifying a user: The vehicle's system first figures out who is using the vehicle.
  2. Getting user profile data: Once the user is identified, the system retrieves their personalized settings and preferences from a stored user profile. This profile can include information about vehicle controls (like seat position, mirror adjustments, steering wheel position) and vehicle settings (such as climate control, infotainment preferences).
  3. Adjusting vehicle based on data: The vehicle then automatically changes its controls and settings to match the preferences stored in the identified user's profile.
  4. Receiving user input for adjustments: The system allows the user to make further manual changes to the vehicle controls or settings after the initial automatic adjustment.
  5. Updating user profile: If the user makes changes, these new preferences are saved and updated in their user profile, so the vehicle can learn and adapt for future use.

• Independent Claim 12 (System Claim): This claim outlines a system designed to customize a vehicle. The system includes:

  1. A memory: This component stores instructions and user profile data, including personalized vehicle control and setting preferences for various users.
  2. A processor: This is the "brain" of the system, connected to the memory. It's programmed to perform the following actions:
     • Identify user: Determine who is currently using the vehicle.
     • Retrieve profile: Get the user's specific preferences from the stored user profile data.
     • Adjust vehicle: Automatically change the vehicle's controls and settings based on the retrieved profile.
     • Receive new input: Take in any further adjustments the user makes.
     • Update profile: Save these new adjustments to the user's profile for future use.
  3. Vehicle controls: These are the physical or digital controls within the vehicle (e.g., seats, mirrors, steering wheel).
  4. Vehicle settings: These are other configurable aspects of the vehicle (e.g., climate, infotainment).
  5. Sensors: These gather data related to the vehicle and its environment.
  6. Input devices: These allow the user to interact with the system (e.g., touchscreen, voice commands, physical buttons).
  7. Output devices: These provide information to the user (e.g., displays, speakers).

CAFC 2026 Dockets:

A review of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit (CAFC) dockets for 2026 as of April 26, 2026, did not reveal any cases specifically listing US9147296.