System for Ensuring Safe Driving by Young Drivers

Abstract

A device housing system contained within a vehicle is provided herein, the device housing system including a front surface, a back surface, a first side member, a second side member, a top member, a bottom member, and a control module configured to communicate with a motion detection mechanism of the vehicle and with an internet-enabled device. The front surface, the first side member, the second side member, and the bottom member define a placement slot for the internet-enabled device, the placement slot being configured to support the internet-enabled device. The device housing system prevents a user from operating an internet-enabled device when the vehicle is in motion, and thus, limits distracted driving. The device housing system also prevents operation of the vehicle unless certain conditions are met.

Claims

1. A method of ensuring safe driving by a young driver, comprising the steps of: providing, a device housing system contained within a vehicle, comprising a front surface, a back surface, a first side member, having a first upper end and a first lower end, the first side member extending between the back surface and the front surface, a second side member, having a second upper end and a second lower end, the second side member extending between the back surface and the front surface, a top member, extending between the back surface and the front surface, and connected to the first upper end and the second upper end, a bottom member, extending between the back surface and the front surface, and connected to the first lower end and the second lower end, and a control module configured to communicate with a motion detection mechanism of the vehicle and with an internet-enabled device, wherein the front surface, the first side member, the second side member, and the bottom member define a placement slot for the internet-enabled device, wherein the placement slot is open-faced and configured to support the internet-enabled device; entering the vehicle by the driver; placing, by the driver, an internet-enabled device of the driver into the placement slot; fastening, by the driver, a seatbelt corresponding to a seat in the vehicle which is occupied by the driver; permitting, by the device housing system, operation of the vehicle.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of permitting, by the device housing system, operation of the vehicle is permitting the vehicle to be started.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the step of permitting, by the device housing system, operation of the vehicle is permitting the vehicle to be placed into drive.

4. The method of claim 1, further comprising the steps of: sensing by the device housing system if the internet-enabled device is within the placement slot; preventing operation of the vehicle, by the device housing system, if the internet-enabled device is removed from the placement slot.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the step of preventing operation of the vehicle, by the device housing system, if the internet-enabled device is removed from the placement slot is achieved by slowly reducing the speed of a vehicle until the vehicle is stopped.

6. The method of claim 1, further comprising the step of preventing, by the device housing system, any audio from being emitted by the vehicle.

7. A method for promoting safe operation of a vehicle by young drivers, comprising the steps of: providing, a device housing system contained within a vehicle, comprising a front surface, a back surface, a first side member, having a first upper end and a first lower end, the first side member extending between the back surface and the front surface, a second side member, having a second upper end and a second lower end, the second side member extending between the back surface and the front surface, a top member, extending between the back surface and the front surface, and connected to the first upper end and the second upper end, a bottom member, extending between the back surface and the front surface, and connected to the first lower end and the second lower end, and a control module configured to communicate with a motion detection mechanism of the vehicle and with an internet-enabled device, wherein the front surface, the first side member, the second side member, and the bottom member define a placement slot for the internet-enabled device, wherein the placement slot is open-faced and configured to support the internet-enabled device; registering, by the driver, the internet-enabled device with the device housing system such that the internet-enabled device and the device holding system may be in wireless electronic communication; initializing, by the driver utilizing the device holding system, a verification protocol; performing, by the driver, one or more steps of the verification protocol until the verification protocol is complete; transmitting an unlock signal, from the device holding system to the vehicle, indicating that the internet-enabled device is secured within the safe body; permitting driving operation of the vehicle, upon receipt of the signal.

8. The method of claim 7, the verification protocol comprising the steps of: creating, by a remote server in wireless electronic communication with the internet-enabled device, a verification code; delivering the verification code to the electronic device; entering, by the user into a software application on the internet-enabled device, the verification code; verifying, by the software application, and the entered verification code is accurate; transmitting, by the software application via the internet-enabled device, an authorization signal to the device holding system.

9. The method of claim 7, the device holding system further comprising a breathalyzer and the verification protocol comprising the steps of: blowing into the breathalyzer by the user to provide the user's BAC; determining whether the BAC is under 0.8; transmitting, by the internet-enabled device, an authorization signal to the device holding system.

10. The method of claim 9, the verification protocol further comprising the steps of: placing, by the driver, an internet-enabled device of the driver into the placement slot; fastening, by the driver, a seatbelt corresponding to a seat in the vehicle which is occupied by the driver; permitting, by the device housing system, operation of the vehicle.

11. The method of claim 9, the verification protocol further comprising the steps of: placing, by the driver, an internet-enabled device of the driver into the placement slot; fastening, by all occupants of the vehicle, one or more seatbelts corresponding to one or more occupied seats in the vehicle; permitting, by the device housing system, operation of the vehicle.

12. A method for promoting safe operation of a vehicle by young drivers, comprising the steps of: providing, a device housing system contained within a vehicle, comprising a front surface, a back surface, a first side member, having a first upper end and a first lower end, the first side member extending between the back surface and the front surface, a second side member, having a second upper end and a second lower end, the second side member extending between the back surface and the front surface, a top member, extending between the back surface and the front surface, and connected to the first upper end and the second upper end, a bottom member, extending between the back surface and the front surface, and connected to the first lower end and the second lower end, and a control module configured to communicate with a motion detection mechanism of the vehicle and with an internet-enabled device, wherein the front surface, the first side member, the second side member, and the bottom member define a placement slot for the internet-enabled device, wherein the placement slot is open-faced and configured to support the internet-enabled device; registering, by the driver, the internet-enabled device with the device housing system such that the internet-enabled device and the device holding system may be in wireless electronic communication; registering, an override device by a superuser, the override device being configured to override the method for promoting safe operation of a vehicle by young drivers when in proximity with the device holding device; initializing, by the driver utilizing the device holding system, a verification protocol; performing, by the driver, one or more steps of the verification protocol until the verification protocol is complete; transmitting an unlock signal, from the device holding system to the vehicle, indicating that the internet-enabled device is secured within the safe body; permitting operation of the vehicle, upon receipt of the signal.

13. The method of claim 12, the verification protocol further comprising the steps of: entering, by the driver, an authorization code into the device holding system to initiate a driving session, placing, by the driver, an internet-enabled device of the driver into the placement slot; fastening, by the driver, a seatbelt corresponding to a seat in the vehicle which is occupied by the driver; permitting, by the device housing system, operation of the vehicle.

14. The method of claim 13, the device holding system further comprising a breathalyzer and the verification protocol comprising the steps of: blowing into the breathalyzer by the user to provide the user's BAC; determining whether the BAC is under 0.8; transmitting, by the internet-enabled device, an authorization signal to the device holding system.

15. The method of claim 13, further comprising the steps of: presenting the driver with one or more visual stimuli; tracking, by an image capture device in electronic communication with the device holding system, one or more eye movements of the driver in relation to the one or more visual stimuli; assessing, via the software application performing a horizontal gaze nystagmus test, whether the user is impaired.

16. The method of claim 12, wherein operation of the vehicle is starting the vehicle.

17. The method of claim 12, wherein operation of the vehicle is placing the vehicle into drive.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] In the drawings, like elements are depicted by like reference numerals. The drawings are briefly described as follows.

[0029] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a device housing system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 2 is an alternative perspective view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 1.

[0031] FIGS. 3A and 3B are exemplary schematic views of the flow of communications between a motion detection mechanism, a transceiver, and an internet-enabled device in accordance with the present disclosure, where FIG. 3A illustrates the flow of communications when a vehicle is in motion and FIG. 3B illustrates the flow of communications when a vehicle is at rest.

[0032] FIGS. 4A and 4B are perspective views of the embodiment of FIG. 1, shown in both a first position and a second position, respectively.

[0033] FIG. 5A is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the device housing system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 5B is a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the device housing system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the device housing system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 1, highlighting the placement of an electronic device thereon.

[0037] The present disclosure now will be described more fully hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show various example embodiments. However, the present disclosure may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the example embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these example embodiments are provided so that the present disclosure is thorough, complete, and fully conveys the scope of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present disclosure without departing from the scope or spirit of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0038] Reference will now be made in detail to each embodiment of the invention in accordance with the present disclosure. Such embodiments are provided by way of explanation of the present disclosure, which is not intended to be limited thereto in any manner whatsoever. In fact, those of ordinary skill in the art may appreciate upon reading the present specification and viewing the present drawings that various modifications and variations can be made thereto.

[0039] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to device housing systems for locking an internet-enabled device when a vehicle is in a state of motion, and more particularly to a device housing system for preventing a user from operating the internet-enabled device when the vehicle is in motion. The device housing system in accordance with the present disclosure is particularly beneficial when the user does not have assistance while operating a vehicle, such as when the user is the sole passenger of the vehicle.

[0040] In the following embodiments, the user may be an occupant of a vehicle, and more particularly, the user may be the driver of the vehicle.

[0041] FIG. 1, FIG. 2, and FIGS. 4 through 7 all show one or more embodiments of the device housing system in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0042] As illustrated in FIG. 1, the device housing system 100 includes a front surface 101, a back surface 102, a first side member 103, a second side member 104, a top member 105, and a bottom member 106. The front surface, the first side member, the second side member, and the bottom member define a placement slot 107 for an internet-enabled device 1 (see FIG. 7). The placement slot is configured to support the internet-enabled device placed thereon.

[0043] The first side member 103 includes a first upper end 303 and a first lower end 403 and extends between the back surface 102 and the front surface 101. Similarly, the second side member 104 includes a second upper end 304 and a second lower end 404 and extends between the back surface 102 and the front surface 101. In some embodiments, the top member 105 may extend between the back surface 102 and the front surface 101 and is connected to the first upper end 303 and the second upper end 304. Likewise, the bottom member 106 may extend between the back surface 102 and the front surface 101 and is connected to the first lower end 403 and the second lower end 404.

[0044] In some embodiments, as further shown in FIG. 1, the device housing system 100 may further include an angle 108 defined by an intersection of the front surface 101 and the bottom member 106. The angle may enable the device housing system to stably support the internet-enabled device 1 on the placement slot 107 via gravity or optionally with the aid of intermolecular forces friction and/or adhesion between the device 1 and the placement slot 107. In some embodiments, the angle is in the range of from ninety degrees to one hundred eighty degrees. Preferably, the angle is in the range of from ninety degrees to one hundred thirty degrees. Even more preferably, the angle is in the range of from ninety to one hundred ten degrees.

[0045] In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the device housing system 100 may further include a control module 201, configured to communicate with the internet-enabled device 1, as well as a motion detection mechanism 10 of the vehicle (not shown in FIG. 2). The internet-enabled device 1 may be a smartphone, a smart watch, or the like.

[0046] The motion detection mechanism 10 of the vehicle may include known devices in the art which detect whether the vehicle is in motion. Further, the motion detection mechanism may be a motion detection mechanism provided with the vehicle by the original manufacturer or may be provided by a third-party manufacturer. Accordingly, such flexibility enables the device housing system 100 to be installed in any vehicle, no matter the make or model.

[0047] In other embodiments, as further illustrated in FIG. 2, the control module 201 may further include a transceiver 202. The type of transceiver may include any wireless or radio frequency transceiver known in the art. Specifically, the transceiver 202 may be configured to receive a first signal from the motion detection mechanism 10 when the vehicle is in a state of motion. Further, the transceiver may be configured to receive a second signal from the motion detection mechanism when the vehicle is in a state of rest.

[0048] The vehicle may be said to be in the state of motion when the motion detection mechanism registers that the vehicle is in motion. For purposes of the present disclosure, even the slightest forward or backward movement of the vehicle may be classified as motion. Alternatively, the vehicle may be said to be in the state of rest when the motion detection mechanism registers no movement of the vehicle.

[0049] In some embodiments, the transceiver 202 may be configured to transmit a locking signal to the internet-enabled device 1 disposed on the placement slot 107 when the transceiver receives the first signal. In such embodiments, the locking signal may lock the internet-enabled device. By locking the internet-enabled device, the user may be restricted from fully accessing the internet-enabled device. For example, among others, the user may be denied access to the internet-enabled device's lock screen, home screen, text messaging capabilities, internet capabilities, applications, or any combination thereof.

[0050] Similarly, in other embodiments, the transceiver 202 may be configured to transmit an unlocking signal to the internet-enabled device 1 disposed on the placement slot 107 when the transceiver receives the second signal. In such embodiments, the unlocking signal may provide access to the internet-enabled device. When the internet-enabled device is unlocked, the user may be granted full access to the internet-enabled device.

[0051] FIG. 3 is an exemplary schematic of the flow of communications between the motion detection mechanism 10, the transceiver 202, and the internet-enabled device 1. FIG. 3A illustrates the flow of communications when the vehicle is in motion. FIG. 3B illustrates the flow of communications when the vehicle is at rest.

[0052] In other embodiments, the device housing system 100 may be configured to register the user's internet-enabled device 1. In such embodiments, registering the internet-enabled device to the device housing system may require affirmative steps by the user. In other words, registration of the internet-enabled device may not occur automatically. Accordingly, such a configuration may offer advantages, especially when the vehicle transports individuals that may not be frequent passengers of the vehicle. In other words, the device housing system may preferably be configured to lock only the internet-enabled device of a primary user, e.g., a driver, of the vehicle, not its passengers. Moreover, in other embodiments, the device housing system may be configured to register more than one internet-enabled device. Accordingly, such a configuration may be advantageous when multiple individuals utilize the same vehicle.

[0053] In some embodiments, the device housing system may be configured to recognize when the registered internet-enabled device is contained within the vehicle. Specifically, the transceiver 202 may be configured to receive a proximity signal from the registered internet-enabled device 1 when the vehicle is running, and when the registered internet-enabled device is located within the vehicle. Specifically, the transceiver may be configured to receive the proximity signal from the registered internet-enabled device when the registered internet-enabled device is located within e.g., twenty, fifteen, ten, etc., feet of the device housing system 100. In such embodiments, the proximity signal may be any form of electronic communication known in the art.

[0054] In some embodiments, the vehicle cannot be placed in motion until the registered internet-enabled device 1, identified to be located within the vehicle by the proximity signal, is disposed on the placement slot 107. In such embodiments, the transceiver 202 may be configured to receive a placement signal from the registered internet-enabled device when the internet-enabled device is disposed on the placement slot. Further, the transceiver may be configured to transmit a motion-enabling signal to the vehicle when the transceiver receives the placement signal. In such embodiments, the motion-enabling signal may enable the vehicle to be placed in motion. For example, the vehicle can be placed in drive, reverse, or neutral.

[0055] In a case where two or more internet-enabled devices registered to different users are simultaneously located within the vehicle, one of the users may be required to select the internet-enabled device of the driver on the digital screen 701. Accordingly, in such an event, the vehicle cannot be placed in motion until the registered internet-enabled device of the driver is disposed on the placement slot. Alternatively, in a case where two or more registered internet-enabled devices to the same user are simultaneously located within the vehicle, the vehicle cannot be placed in motion until both the registered internet-enabled devices are disposed on the placement slot.

[0056] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4, a first rail 501 may extend from the bottom member 106 to the top member 105 along the back surface 102. Further, in other embodiments, a second rail 502 may similarly extend from the bottom member to the top member along the back surface. In some embodiments, the first rail and the second rail are configured to actuate the device housing system 100 between a first position 610 and a second position 620, whereby access to the electronic device 1 is partially restricted when the device housing system 100 is in the first position 610, further incentivizing safe operation of the vehicle. In some embodiments, this actuation may be done along a plane parallel to the back surface 102.

[0057] The mechanism by which the first rail and the second rail actuate the device housing system may utilize any form of rails known in the art. For example, among others, the first rail and the second rail may utilize ball bearings or roller bearings. Additionally, in such embodiments, the first rail and the second rail may be manually actuated by the user. Embodiments exists where this actuation is achieved through use of a motor.

[0058] In some embodiments, the first rail 501 and the second rail 502 may extend for an entire length between the top member 105 and the bottom member 106. Alternatively, the first rail and the second rail may not extend the entire length between the top member and the bottom member and may extend only partially between the top member and the bottom member. Preferably, the first rail and the second rail are the same length to ensure that the device housing system 100 is level during actuation.

[0059] Similarly, in other embodiments, the device housing system 100 may include just one rail, e.g., the first rail or the second rail, or more than two rails to actuate the device housing system. In such embodiments, the rail or rails, respectively, may similarly be configured to actuate the device housing system between the first position and the second position.

[0060] In some embodiments, when the device housing system 100 is in the first position 610, as shown in part (a) of FIG. 4, the user's physical access to the internet-enabled device 1 may be restricted. Accordingly, such a configuration may make it more difficult for the user to physically reach the internet-enabled device. Therefore, most preferably, the user will actuate the device housing mechanism to the first position 610 when the vehicle is in motion, to facilitate better visibility of the vehicle's internal controls, and/or to temper the user's inclination to reach for the internet-enabled device.

[0061] Alternatively, in other embodiments, when the device housing system 100 is in the second position 620, as shown in part (b) of FIG. 4, the user may have full physical access to the internet-enabled device 1. Accordingly, such a configuration may provide no obstacles for the user to physically reach the internet-enabled device. Thus, most preferably, the user will actuate the device housing mechanism to the second position 620 when the vehicle is at rest.

[0062] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 5, the device housing system 100 may further include a middle member 111 located on the placement slot 107. In such embodiments, the middle member may extend between the top member 105 and the bottom member 106. Further, the middle member may extend in any direction on the placement slot 107. Preferably, the middle member 111 may extend in a direction parallel to the planes of the first side member 103 and the second side member 104 so as to maximize an area of the placement slot 107 configured to support the internet-enabled device 1.

[0063] In other embodiments, the middle member may extend for an entire length between the top member and the bottom member. Alternatively, in some embodiments, the middle member may not extend the entire length between the top member and the bottom member and may extend only partially between the top member and the bottom member.

[0064] In some embodiments, as also shown in FIG. 5, the middle member 111 may define a first placement sub-slot 109 and a second placement sub-slot 110. The first placement sub-slot may be further defined by a width, D1, which is a distance between the first side member 103 and the middle member. Similarly, the second placement sub-slot may be further defined by a width, D2, which is a distance between the second side member 104 and the middle member. In such embodiments, the first placement sub-slot 109 and the second placement sub-slot 110 may each be configured to hold at least one internet-enabled device 1.

[0065] In some embodiments, as shown in part (a) of FIG. 5, the middle member 111 may be located at a position equidistant from the first side member 103 and the second side member 104. In such embodiments, the width of the first placement sub-slot 109 and the width of the second placement sub-slot 110, that is, D1 and D2, respectively, are equal. Accordingly, such a configuration may allow for at least two larger internet-enabled devices, such as smartphones, to be comfortably placed on the first placement sub-slot and second placement sub-slot. Further, such a configuration may be considered for aesthetic reasons.

[0066] In some embodiments, as shown in part (b) of FIG. 5, the middle member 111 may not located at a position equidistant from the first side member 103 and the second side member 104. In such embodiments, the width of the first placement sub-slot 109 and the width of the second placement sub-slot 110, that is, D1 and D2, respectively, are not equal. Accordingly, such a configuration may allow for at least two internet-enabled devices of varying sizes, e.g., smartphone, smart watch, etc., to be comfortably placed on the first placement sub-slot and the second placement sub-slot.

[0067] In other embodiments, the device housing system 100 may contain more than one middle member 111, and thus, more than two placement sub-slots. Accordingly, such a configuration may allow for at least three internet-enabled devices to be comfortably placed on the placement slot 107.

[0068] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6, the placement slot 107 may further include a bottom ridge 112. The bottom ridge may have a member which extends from an intersection of the front surface 101 and the bottom member 106 to a point beyond the front surface. The bottom ridge may be configured to support the internet-enabled device 1 from below. In such embodiments, a length of the member which extends beyond the front surface may be of a length sufficient to further support at least one internet-enabled device from below.

[0069] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6, the placement slot 107 may further include a first side ridge 113 having a first ridge member. The first ridge member may extend from an intersection of the front surface 101 and the first side member 103 to a point beyond the front surface. The first side ridge may be configured to further support the internet-enabled device 1 from the left. In such embodiments, a length of the first ridge member which extends beyond the front surface may be of a length sufficient to further support at least one internet-enabled device from the left. Similarly, in some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 6, the placement slot 107 may further include a second side ridge 114 having a second ridge member. The second ridge member may extend from an intersection of the front surface and the second side member to a point beyond the front surface. The second side ridge may be configured to further support the internet-enabled device 1 from the right. In such embodiments, the length of the second ridge member which extends beyond the front surface may be of a length sufficient to further support at least one internet-enabled device from the right. In other embodiments, a plane of the first side ridge 113 and a plane of the second side ridge 114 may be substantially parallel to one another.

[0070] In other embodiments, as further shown in FIG. 6, the device housing system 100 may include a charging unit 703. The type of charging unit may be any charging unit known in the art, although preferably is a charging unit configured to wirelessly charge an electronic device 1 disposed on the device housing system 100. In such embodiments, the charging unit may be configured to charge at least one internet-enabled device 1 disposed on the placement slot 107. Further, the charging unit may be configured to charge various classifications of internet-enabled devices at once, including, but not limited to, smartphones, smartwatches, and the like.

[0071] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 7, the device housing system 100 may further include a digital screen 701 configured to display information to the user. The information displayed to the user may relate to the operational status of the internet-enabled device 1 or the vehicle. For example, the information displayed to the user may relate to whether the internet-enabled device is disabled, but the information displayed to the user is not limited thereto. Moreover, in such embodiments, the digital screen may be configured to be touch screen.

[0072] In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 7, the device housing system 100 may further include a speaker 702 configured to audibly alert the user that the internet-enabled device 1 is disabled. The audial information emitted to the user may relate to the operational status of the internet-enabled device or the vehicle. For example, the information emitted to the user may relate to whether the internet-enabled device is disabled, but the information emitted to the user is not limited thereto.

[0073] In some embodiments, the speaker 702 may be located anywhere on the device housing system 100. Preferably, the speaker may be located on the back surface 102. More preferably, the speaker may be located behind the digital screen 701 so as to emit substantially unmuffled audial information to the user.

[0074] In some embodiments, the front surface 101 may be manufactured from a material configured to limit the movement of the internet-enabled device 1 placed thereon. The material used on the front surface 101 may include material known in the art which restricts movement. More specifically, the material may restrict movement of the internet-enabled device placed on the device housing system 100 via intermolecular forces, e.g., friction and/or adhesion between the internet-enabled electronic device 1 and the device housing system 100. For example, the material of the front surface may be constructed out of one or more of either rubber, polyvinyl chloride, thermoplastic elastomer, thermoplastic polyurethane, foam, sponge, cork, adhesive tape, or non-slip tape. Accordingly, such configurations may offer advantages, such as limiting and/or preventing movement of the internet-enabled device on or off the front surface.

[0075] In some embodiments, the device housing system 100 may be constructed out of an antipathogen plastic or antipathogen composite. In such embodiments, antipathogen plastic or antipathogen composite may be construed to include plastics or composites, respectively, that have antiviral and/or antimicrobial properties. For example, antiviral plastics or composites may be capable of killing 99.9999% of viruses, such as the SARS-COV-2 virus, on material surfaces in 60 minutes or less. Similarly, antimicrobial plastics or composites may include materials that contain an active ingredient which prevents microbial growth. Accordingly, the device housing system may be constructed out of graphene-thermoplastic polyurethane (G-TPU), silver, copper, linoleum, or any other material with anti-viral and/or anti-microbial properties.

[0076] Various other embodiments of the device housing system in accordance with the present disclosure are contemplated. In some embodiments, the device housing system can interface with one or more seatbelts of the vehicle in which the device housing system is installed. By interfacing with these one or more seatbelts, the device housing system in accordance with the present disclosure can provide an additional safeguard for drivers to ensure that the vehicle is being operated safely. Embodiments exist where a user must secure their mobile device within the device housing system and must have their seatbelt fastened in order to operate the vehicle. This restriction in operation can be in the form of preventing the vehicle from starting or can be in the form of preventing the vehicle from entering drive. In other embodiments, this restriction is in the form of engaging the standard brakes and/or emergency brakes until both conditions are satisfied. Embodiments exist where the radio must also be muted in order for the vehicle to be operated. In some embodiments, the device holding system in accordance with the present disclosure is configured to safely pull the vehicle over if it is detected that the user's mobile device is removed from the device housing system after the vehicle has begun operation.

[0077] Further embodiments exist where the device holding system in accordance with the present disclosure assesses not only whether a user has fastened their seatbelt, but also, through use of one or more image capture devices in electronic communication with said device holding system will scan the eyes of the driver for any signs of intoxication. In such embodiments and other embodiments, impairment is assessed by presenting the user with one or more visual stimuli, tracking, by the image capture device, eye movements of the user in relation to the one or more visual stimuli, and assessing, via the software application performing a horizontal gaze nystagmus test, whether the user is impaired. In these embodiments, a camera feature on the electronic device will be utilized to perform this test. Preferably, a system utilizing artificial intelligence will analyze the user's eye movements to detect any signs of involuntary jerking, which can indicate impairment or drowsiness of the user. Embodiments also exist where impairment is assessed by presenting the user with one or more visual stimuli, tracking, by the image capture device, eye movements of the user in relation to the one or more visual stimuli, and assessing, via the software application performing a psychomotor visual test, whether the user is impaired. If the user is impaired, then the device holding system will prevent the vehicle from being operated, either by preventing it from being started and/or preventing the vehicle from being placed in drive.

[0078] Embodiments exist where the device holding system in accordance with the present disclosure checks for whether the driver and any passengers have fastened their seatbelts, and whether the driver's mobile device has been placed within the device holding system before permitting the vehicle to be operated. Embodiments exists where all passengers in the vehicle must place their mobile devices within the device holding system and have their seatbelts fastened prior to the device holding system permitting operation of the vehicle.

[0079] In some embodiments, the system in accordance with the present disclosure is equipped with a teenage mode. That is, said system can be configured to have two use modes, one for adult users of the vehicle and one for younger users of the vehicle, such as teenagers. During operation of vehicles equipped with the system in accordance with the present disclosure, when in teenage mode, said system can restrict maximum speeds of the vehicle, and can place limits on the volume of audio emitted by the vehicle, including preventing the vehicle from omitting any audio whatsoever. Additionally, said system can provide alerts to a remote device via the Internet when the vehicle leaves a pre-set geofenced zone. Embodiments exist where the system in accordance with the present disclosure will monitor the driving behavior of the driver, including monitoring acceleration patterns and braking patterns. In some embodiments, the system in accordance with the present disclosure will also restrict operation of the vehicle outside of pre-approved operation hours. Embodiments also exist where the system in accordance with the present disclosure places restrictions on drivers making phone calls, even when their mobile device is secured within the safe body.

[0080] In some embodiments, the system in accordance with the present disclosure further comprises a designated button on a steering wheel of the vehicle which must be engaged as part of said system permitting operation of the vehicle. Other embodiment exist where the system in accordance with the present disclosure further comprises on or more sources of oxygen which are in fluid communication with a cabin of the vehicle. The system in accordance with the present disclosure is configured to selectively add oxygen to a cabin of the vehicle.

[0081] Embodiments exists where a user must blow into the breathalyzer as part of the system in accordance with the present disclosure permitting operation of the vehicle, and upon verifying that the user's BAC is below the legal limit within the user's jurisdiction, in addition to the phone of the driver being placed within the device holding system, the system in accordance with the present disclosure will permit operation of the vehicle. Additionally, said system can inform teenage drivers that if they use a second, unregistered mobile device while operating the vehicle they can be liable for any damages they cause.

[0082] Embodiments exist where the system in accordance with the present disclosure has a mode for use with teenage drivers which can be set by a super user such as a parent. In such embodiments, the system in accordance with the present disclosure will prompt the super user to navigate to a settings menu while the vehicle is in park where the teen driving mode can be selected. To start, the super user will create a PIN which will prevent the teenage driver from later changing any settings without permission. In some embodiments, the super user will be able to pair a key fob or other RFID-based device to provide for an easy override of the teen driving settings. In some embodiments, the system in accordance with the present disclosure will only limit operation of the vehicle when teen mode is engaged. Embodiments exists where the super user will be provided with reports on the performance of the teen driver, including time driven, average speed, average acceleration, and distance traveled. In other embodiments, the system in accordance with the present disclosure will provide audio warnings to encourage safe driving.

[0083] In other embodiments, one or more components of the device housing system 100 may be independently, fully or partially, constructed of a recycled material, a lightweight material, a waterproof material, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the system in accordance with the present disclosure is equipped with an image capture device, and this image capture device can provide a live video feed of the teenage driver to the super user or other third party. Embodiments exist where the system in accordance with the present disclosure can utilize the image capture device to detect the presence of an unregistered mobile device being used by the driver. Upon detection, the system in accordance with the present disclosure will cause the vehicle to safely cease operation. Embodiments exist where said image capture device records a video feed during all times that the vehicle is in operation.

[0084] In some embodiments, the components of the device housing system 100 may be fastened to one another using any fastening means known in the art. For example, the components of the device housing system may be fastened to one another via bolts, nails, latches, clamps, adhesives, or a combination thereof, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Furthermore, in such embodiments, the components of the device housing system may be permanently attached to one another so as to maintain the structure and rigidity of the device housing system.

[0085] In some embodiments, the device housing system 100 may be permanently attached to the vehicle via bolts, nails, latches, clamps, adhesives, or a combination thereof, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. Such a configuration may ensure that the device housing system does not detach from the vehicle during normal driving conditions or occurrences. In other embodiments, the device housing system may be removably attached from the vehicle to facilitate ease of replacement and/or repair.

[0086] The size, shape, orientation, and configuration of device housing system components are not limited to what is illustrated in the FIGS. 1 to FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 4 to FIGS. 7. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that any suitable configuration of device housing system components is within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0087] It is understood that when an element is referred hereinabove as being on another element, it can be directly on the other element or intervening elements may be present therebetween. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being directly on another element, there are no intervening elements present.

[0088] Moreover, any components or materials can be formed from a same, structurally continuous piece or separately fabricated and connected.

[0089] It is further understood that, although ordinal terms, such as, first, second, and third, are used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer and/or section from another element, component, region, layer and/or section. Thus, a first element, component, region, layer and/or section discussed below could be termed a second element, component, region, layer and/or section without departing from the teachings herein.

[0090] Features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment and such variations come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents. Implementations may also include one or a combination of any two or more of the aforementioned features or embodiments.

[0091] For purposes of the present disclosure of the invention in accordance with the present disclosure, unless specifically disclaimed, the singular includes the plural and vice-versa, the words and and or shall be both conjunctive and disjunctive, the words any and all shall both mean any and all.

[0092] Spatially relative terms, such as beneath, below, lower, above, upper and the like, are used herein for ease of description to describe one element or feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. It is understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as below or beneath other elements or features would then be oriented above the other elements or features. Thus, the example term below can encompass both an orientation of above and below. The device can be otherwise oriented (rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0093] Example embodiments are described herein with reference to cross section illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments. As such, variations from the shapes of the illustrations, for example, of manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are to be expected. Thus, example embodiments described herein should not be construed as limited to the particular shapes of regions as illustrated herein, but are to include deviations in shapes that result, for example, from manufacturing. For example, a region illustrated or described as flat may, typically, have rough and/or nonlinear features. Moreover, sharp angles that are illustrated may be rounded. Thus, the regions illustrated in the figures are schematic in nature and their shapes are not intended to illustrate the precise shape of a region and are not intended to limit the scope of the present claims.

[0094] As the invention in accordance with the present disclosure has been described in connection with what is presently considered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it is to be understood that the disclosure is not to be limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

[0095] This written description uses examples to disclose the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined in the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

[0096] The claims should not necessarily be construed as limited to addressing any of the particular problems or deficiencies discussed hereinabove. To the accomplishment of the above, this disclosure may be embodied in the form illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Attention is called to the fact, however, that the drawings are illustrative only. Variations are contemplated as being part of the disclosure.

[0097] The disclosure is illustrated throughout the written description. It should be understood that numerous variations are possible while adhering to the inventive concept. Such variations are contemplated as being a part of the present disclosure.