Global Positioning System: Description and Operation

LEXUS Link System Part 2:

System Outline

The LEXUS link system has been adopted primarily for the purpose of saving human lives in case of an accident and for an early resolution in case of a theft of the vehicle. This system contains the following eight functions: automatic emergency call, manual emergency call, service call, memo record, door lock/unlock, theft notification, self diagnosis, and voice message. These functions are described below.

1. Automatic Emergency Call
In the event of an accident in which the airbags are deployed, upon receiving the airbag deployment signal from the airbag sensor assembly, the mayday ECU places an emergency call to the LEXUS link center and notifies the center of the position of the vehicle generated by the GPS.

2. Manual Emergency Call
In the event of an accident in which the airbags are not deployed, or in case of an emergency, the emergency button can be operated manually to place an emergency call to the LEXUS link center and to notify the center of the position of the vehicle generated by GPS.

3. Service Call
By operating the SERVICES button, road guidance information can be obtained from the LEXUS link center. In addition, if the mayday ECU determines that there is a malfunction in the vehicle associated with the LEXUS link system, it automatically places a service call.

4. Memo Call
By operating the PLAY/RECORD button, the conversation with the LEXUS link center during an emergency or service call can by recorded and played back. This function can be also used for voice recording and playback by operating the button when no call is being placed.

5. Door Lock/Unlock
If the driver notices that the key was left in the ignition, or that the key was left in the car, the doors can be locked or unlocked remotely from the LEXUS link center by calling the center.

6. Theft Notification
If the vehicle is stolen, upon receiving a signal from the theft deterrent ECU, the mayday ECU automatically places an emergency call to the LEXUS link center to notify the center of the theft and the position of the vehicle generated by the GPS.

7. Self Diagnosis
Pressing the play or volume up button located on the overhead J/B, and subsequently turning the ignition switch ON/OFF three times within approximately 15 seconds causes the mayday ECU to assume the diagnosis mode and provide a voice announcement describing the details of the diagnosis.

8. System Message
Each time a function is activated, the mayday ECU makes a voice announcement to inform the driver that the function has been activated.