GB2421668B - Usage position detection - Google Patents

Abstract

A method for detecting that a vehicle driver is using a mobile telephone while the vehicle is in motion. The method comprising the steps of determining that a voice-call is in progress, determining that the vehicle is in motion, and detecting that the mobile terminal is held in one of two ways that suggest that the user is driving. These include holding the phone between the users shoulder and ear or holding the phone by the vehicle controls. The first position can be detected by pressure sensors, which may be piezoelectric elements, or the keypad or touch-screen may be used to sense pressure. The second position can be detected by a proximity sensor, or by acceleration sensors which monitor movement of the phone towards the vehicles controls. Pressure detected in the phone casing can also be used to control the volume of the speaker or microphone of the phone.