Multimedia information and control system for automobiles

Abstract

In a multimedia information and control system for use in an automobile, at least one interface is employed which enables a user to access information concerning the automobile and control vehicle functions in an efficient manner. The user may select one of a plurality of displayed options on a screen of such an interface. Through audio, video and/or text media, the user is provided with information concerning the selected option and the vehicle function corresponding thereto. Having be so informed, the user may activate the selected option to control the corresponding vehicle function.

1 - 12 . (canceled)  
   
   
       13 . A method for use in a system for adjusting a setting of a device in a vehicle before a user enters the vehicle, comprising: 
 receiving first information concerning a time when a user enters the vehicle;    receiving second information concerning a desired setting of the device in the vehicle at the entry time; and    determining a second time at which the device is operated to effect the desired setting in the vehicle at the entry time, the second time being earlier than the entry time.    
   
   
       14 . The method of  claim 13  wherein the device includes climate control.  
   
   
       15 . The method of  claim 14  wherein the desired setting includes a desired temperature setting.  
   
   
       16 . The method of  claim 15  wherein the second time is determined based on a temperature outside the vehicle at the second time.  
   
   
       17 . The method of  claim 13  wherein one of the first and second information is received via remote communication.  
   
   
       18 . The method of  claim 17  wherein the remote communication includes a telephone communication.  
   
   
       19 . The method of  claim 17  wherein the remote communication includes a radio frequency (RF) communication.  
   
   
       20 . A system for adjusting a setting of a device in a vehicle before a user enters the vehicle, comprising: 
 an interface for receiving first information concerning a time when a user enters the vehicle, and second information concerning a desired setting of the device in the vehicle at the entry time; and    a processor configured for determining a second time at which the device is operated to effect the desired setting in the vehicle at the entry time, the second time being earlier than the entry time.    
   
   
       21 . The system of  claim 20  wherein the device includes climate control.  
   
   
       22 . The system of  claim 21  wherein the desired setting includes a desired temperature setting.  
   
   
       23 . The system of  claim 22  wherein the second time is determined based on a temperature outside the vehicle at the second time.  
   
   
       24 . The system of  claim 20  wherein one of the first and second information is received via remote communication.  
   
   
       25 . The system of  claim 24  wherein the remote communication includes a telephone communication.  
   
   
       26 . The system of  claim 24  wherein the remote communication includes an RF communication.