Entries |
Document | Title | Date |
20080201035 | ELECTRONIC CONTROL APPARATUS HAVING SELF-DIAGNOSIS FUNCTION - The electronic control apparatus includes a rewritable nonvolatile memory, a first function of performing a monitoring operation to detect abnormalities in each of a first to N-th (N being an integer larger than 2) items, and a second function of, when the first function detects an abnormality in an M-th (M being an integer larger than 1 and not larger than the N), storing an abnormality code indicative of the detected abnormality in the rewritable nonvolatile memory. The second function is configured to store an identification information associated with the M-th item so that the M-th item can be identified from the first to N-th items in the rewritable nonvolatile memory. | 08-21-2008 |
20080215207 | Device For Testing Systems, Functions or Components of a Motor Vehicle Independently of a Test-Bench - The invention relates to a motor vehicle that is provided with a device for testing the systems, functions or components of the vehicle. According to the invention, the vehicle is jacked-up and is equipped with an actuator or a driver to operate the brakes of the vehicle. The vehicle propulsion can rotate freely against the load of at least one brake of the vehicle and the freely rotating wheel or wheels have no frictional connection to the tread contact area of the vehicle. The brakes and/or the propulsion load can be controlled by actuators having a controller or by the driver in accordance with specific signals of the operating condition of the drive train of the vehicle. | 09-04-2008 |
20080221749 | Diagnostic Interface for Applications on a Service Gateway - A method for supplying internal information relevant for performing a diagnosis, of an application available in a vehicle and running on a service gateway, in which a defined uniform application diagnostic interface, via which communication with the service gateway is made possible, is provided in the application. | 09-11-2008 |
20080221750 | METHODS, APPARATUS, AND COMPUTER MEDIA AND SIGNALS FOR REDUCING GHG BY IMPOSING RESTRICTIONS ON EXCESSIVE USAGES OF VEHICLES AND OTHER AIR, SEA, AND ENVIRONMENT POLLUTING MACHINERY AND EQUIPMENTS - Methods, apparatus, media and signals for automatically and smartly monitoring, controlling, and restricting excessive usage of: mechanically, and/or electrically, and/or electro-mechanically, and/or chemically propelled: land, sea, and air/space transportation systems in order to reduce energy consumption and to reduce release of CO2 and other pollutant into the air, soil, and water and to enforce the Kyoto or other international, or nationally allocated pollution quota for operators of transportation means are disclosed. Generally each involves receiving and storing a representation of operation of a Machine, receiving and storing representation of an operator in a control system, and producing a control signal for use by a control apparatus, or a remote authority, if values represented in operation of a Machine are outside of corresponding allowed values of the representation of an operator. | 09-11-2008 |
20080228344 | Programmable Function Key on Wireless OBDII Interface - A vehicle diagnostic device is provided that includes a programmable function to control a function on an emission computer workstation. The function key can be programmed to interact and manipulate with the workstation. The vehicle diagnostic device allows a user to wirelessly communicate with the workstation while located in the vehicle. | 09-18-2008 |
20080228345 | Change Recognition And Change Protection Device And A Process For The Control Data Of A Controlled Motor Vehicle Device - The control data stored in an engine control device of an agricultural utility vehicle are stored in a further control device in a redundant manner as reference data. At system initialization and in operation, a comparison is made between the control data and the reference data. If irregular deviations are determined between control data and reference data, then, as a basis for processing of the control signals, instead of the control data, the reference data or a fraction of it is used, or the control data is changed in the engine control device. | 09-18-2008 |
20080228346 | Apparatus, systems and methods for managing vehicle assets - The inventive subject matter relates to an apparatus, systems, methods, and computer program products relating to tracking and managing vehicle assets. More particularly, the invention relates, preferably, to using wireless systems to track and manage vehicle assets, vehicle inventory, parts inventory, parts and/or equipment installed on said asset, a vehicle operator, a vehicle owner, or a combination thereof. | 09-18-2008 |
20080228347 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR STORING AND RETRIEVING EQUIPMENT INSPECTION AND MAINTENANCE DATA - An inspection and maintenance data storage and retrieval system features uniquely identified read/write memory buttons mounted in or on an equipment unit such as an aircraft, in association with specific components of the equipment unit. Technical information useful for inspection and maintenance of the components, plus historical inspection and maintenance information, is stored in a central database computer remote from the equipment unit. A memory button probe, used in conjunction with a portable computer, enables storage on the memory buttons of information relating to inspection and maintenance carried out on the corresponding equipment components, as well as technical information related to the components. The portable computer is connected to the central database computer, preferably through a wireless Internet connection, thus enabling downloading of technical information from the central database to the portable computer at the point of inspection or maintenance. Information relating to each inspection and maintenance task may be downloaded to the central database computer via the portable computer. The central database computer may be a network server providing authorized users with access to current maintenance and operational status information for the equipment units supported by the system. | 09-18-2008 |
20080234888 | Computer System and Method For Monitoring Hydrogen Vehicles - A system and method for remotely monitoring the status of a hydrogen vehicle includes a data acquisition/communication module configured to receive a plurality of signals representing one or more status conditions associated with the vehicle. The data acquisition/communication module is further configured to report one or more of the status conditions to a computer remote from the vehicle. The system is further configured to receive one or more signals from the remote computer in response to the reported status condition wherein the received signal represents an action to be taken in response to the one or more status conditions. The data acquisition/communication module is also configured to initiate the action to be taken. A computer remote from the vehicle is configured to monitor the one or more status conditions reported by the data acquisition/communication module and determine if an action must be taken. | 09-25-2008 |
20080234889 | VEHICLE AND EQUIPMENT MONITORING APPARATUS - A vehicle has a safe and a utility device operable for performing a task having a result capable of being measured. A local processor is associated with local storage, each of which is housed in a safe preventing access thereto. An operator input console associated with the local storage is carried by the vehicle and is disposed outside the safe. A positioning system associated with the local processor generates position information of the vehicle during operation of the utility device. A sensor associated with the utility device and the local processor generates result information of the result of the operation of the utility device. The local processor stores in the local storage the position information, the result information, and the operator input information. The operator input console and the local processor are adapted and arranged preventing access to the local storage in response to operation of the operator input console. | 09-25-2008 |
20080255720 | Method and Apparatus for Validating Processors Using Seed and Key Tests - A method for validating a processor with a memory in a vehicle control system includes the steps of receiving a test seed, retrieving a pre-stored test key from the processor memory, calculating a check value using the test seed, and comparing the check value to the pre-stored test key. | 10-16-2008 |
20080255721 | On-vehicle data collection apparatus, center, and on-vehicle system - In a data collection apparatus mounted on a vehicle, an electric control unit sets an abnormality detection condition to detect abnormality of the vehicle based on a condition signal received from an external apparatus located outside the vehicle. The electric control unit determines whether the detection condition is satisfied and stores vehicle control data or vehicle behavior data upon satisfaction of the detection condition as freeze data. The abnormality of the vehicle is analyzed using the freeze data. | 10-16-2008 |
20080269979 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR UPDATING VEHICLE COMPUTING PLATFORM CONFIGURATION INFORMATION - A configurable vehicle computer is enabled based on identification information associated with a driver. Updates to the configurable vehicle computer are stored at a remote location. The updates are downloaded upon an authorized vehicle start-up. | 10-30-2008 |
20080269980 | Method and System for Fuel Injector Identification and Simulation - A fuel injector simulator comprises a monitor in communication with an engine fuel injector. A pseudo fuel injector communicates with an onboard diagnostic component to present an expected fuel injector resistance value. The pseudo fuel injector determines the expected fuel injector resistance value and adjusts an adjustable output circuit to present the expected fuel injector resistance value to the onboard diagnostic component. The engine fuel injector is monitored for a fault condition. The pseudo fuel injector simulates a fuel injector fault to the onboard diagnostic component in response to a detected fault condition. | 10-30-2008 |
20080275604 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR SELECTIVELY MONITORING VEHICLE SYSTEMS AND FOR CONTROLLING VEHICLE SYSTEM PARAMETERS - A method for selectively monitoring one or more vehicle systems is disclosed. The method includes recognizing, at the vehicle, an activation device that is configured to trigger predetermined setting(s) for the one or more vehicle systems. The telematics unit transmits to a secure server a signal indicative of the fact that the activation device is in use. Access to the secure server for monitoring the one or more vehicle systems via an Internet-enabled program is selectively enabled. A system for monitoring one or more vehicle systems is also disclosed. Further, a method for controlling vehicle system parameters is disclosed herein. | 11-06-2008 |
20080275605 | Method and apparatus for monitoring the status of automotive service equipment and signaling the status by a wireless technology to the operator - Automotive service equipment and method of servicing an automotive vehicle use an automotive service machine having at least one automatic mode of operation during which an operator is not required to be present. A first, stationary communication module connected to the service machine receives first signals from the machine indicating the status of an automatic mode of operation of the machine and wirelessly transmits second signals communicating when an operator's attention to the machine is required. A second, portable communication module remotely receives the second signals and in response activates a signaling device in the second module for signaling an operator that attention to the machine is required. Thereby, during vehicle servicing the operator can perform other tasks within the workshop, thus being more productive and efficient. | 11-06-2008 |
20080281484 | Data Acquisition System - A data acquisition system for a vehicle, including a plurality of sensors for sensing the value of a condition relative to the vehicle; at least one collector electronically connected with and configured to receive first data from at least one of the sensors and configured to output second data to a host controller; a host controller electronically connected with and configured to receive second data from at least one collector and configured to store the second data for later access; and, fiber optic cable means connected between the host controller and the at least one collector for carrying the second data from the at least one collector to the host controller. | 11-13-2008 |
20080288135 | Secure Data Strategy for Vehicle Control Systems - A method of providing secure data from vehicle operational variable data that includes a plurality of data message bits includes the steps of dividing the plurality of data message bits into a first group of data message bits and a second group of data message bits, encoding the first group of data message bits using a data map to generate a plurality of encoded data message bits, and generating the data message from the plurality of encoded data message bits and the second group of data message bits. | 11-20-2008 |
20080312786 | WIRELESS ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTICS FOR HEAVY DUTY TRUCKS - A device, system, and method are provided that can request and report on-board diagnostics (OBD) data wirelessly thereby allowing a vehicle to provide its OBD test data in real-time without being taken out of service. This capability can provide significant advantages for fleets in minimizing the impact of OBD testing requirements on vehicle downtime. | 12-18-2008 |
20080319602 | System and Method for Monitoring and Improving Driver Behavior - System and method for providing feedback to drivers. The system monitors selected vehicle parameters while a vehicle is being driven, and detects one or more vehicle operation violations by comparing the selected vehicle parameters to predetermined thresholds. A mentoring message is provided to the driver if the threshold is exceeded. If a vehicle operation violation has not been corrected within a preselected time period, then a violation report may be sent to a third party or a central server and/or a different mentoring message may be provided to the driver. Vehicle parameter data may be monitored from an on-board vehicle diagnostic system. The mentoring message may be an audible warning, such as a spoken message, or a visual warning, such as a text message. The selected vehicle parameters may be a vehicle speed, a vehicle acceleration, or a vehicle seatbelt use. | 12-25-2008 |
20090005928 | Visual diagnostic system and subscription service - A visual diagnostic system is disclosed. The visual diagnostic system has a sensor located onboard a machine to generate a signal indicative of a status of a machine component, and a user interface associated with the machine to receive input from and provide information to a user. The visual diagnostic system also has a controller in communication with the sensor and the user interface. The controller is configured display on the user interface a model containing the machine component in response to the signal. | 01-01-2009 |
20090012674 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR TROUBLESHOOTING A COMPUTER SYSTEM - An apparatus for troubleshooting a computer system of a vehicle is disclosed. The apparatus includes a controller for controlling an aspect of operation of the vehicle with at least one process. The apparatus also includes a diagnostic system configured to monitor the at least one process and configured to obtain diagnostic data regarding the at least one process. Additionally, the apparatus includes a wireless device coupled to the diagnostic system and configured to connect to an Internet Protocol (IP) based network, and configured to transmit the diagnostic data over the network. | 01-08-2009 |
20090012675 | METHOD OF PROVIDING DATA-RELATED SERVICES TO A TELEMATICS-EQUIPPED VEHICLE - A communications method that gathers status information on a telematics-equipped vehicle before establishing a mobile-terminated data connection with that vehicle. In general, the communications method sends a status request message to a wireless carrier system that asks for certain status information on a particular telematics-equipped vehicle. After the wireless carrier system gathers the status information, it sends back a status response message. If the status response message indicates that the telematics-equipped vehicle is able to receive certain data-related services, then a mobile-terminated data connection is established and the services are provided. If the telematics-equipped vehicle is unable to receive the data-related services, then attempts are made to identify and resolve the problem. In cases where the telematics-equipped vehicle is not registered with a wireless network, a monitor request message is sent to the wireless carrier system which puts it on the lookout for registration of the vehicle in question. | 01-08-2009 |
20090018720 | Emission monitoring display device - The present invention provides an emission monitoring device for a vehicle. The device comprises a lightweight housing for operationally encapsulating a processor, memory; a sensor for each vehicle component to be monitored, a display device; and a power supply for power the device. The processor is programmed to monitor each sensor, capture data from each sensor, store the captured data from each sensor in the memory; and display the captured onto the display device. In one embodiment of the present invention the housing is operationally mounted onto the inner gas lid of the vehicle. In an alternative embodiment, the housing is incorporated into the dashboard. | 01-15-2009 |
20090018721 | VEHICLE EVALUATION USING INFRARED DATA - A solution for evaluating a vehicle using infrared data is provided. In particular, evaluation data for the vehicle is obtained, which includes infrared data for a plurality of sides of the vehicle as well as vehicle identification data for distinguishing the vehicle from another vehicle. The infrared data is processed to enhance a set of signal features. Additional non-infrared based data also can be obtained for evaluating the vehicle. The evaluation data is analyzed to determine whether one or more anomalies are present. The anomaly(ies) can be correlated with a possible problem with a component of the vehicle. Data on the anomaly, problem, and/or vehicle identification can be provided for use on another system, such as a remote inspection station, maintenance system, and/or the like. | 01-15-2009 |
20090018722 | PROCESS FOR PROVIDING REPLACEMENT ELECTRIC MOTORS - A process for providing replacement electrical motors to a number of disparate users that employ large, industrial electric motors for driving electrical generators or other rotary equipment. The process comprises providing a cooperative motor repair and replacement program and alliance for the repair and replacement of the electric motors; ascertaining the specifications and condition of the motors of each user who participates in the program, and transferring the motors of each user to one or more common climate-controlled storage locations, so that they will be in good condition and available when required. Desirably, the inventory of the user's own motors is supplemented by new motors in a sufficient quantity to satisfy the replacement motor requirements of all the users. To the extent required, an inventory is maintained of transition bases that are used to position a replacement motor so that it matches the specifications of the driven apparatus. The replacement motors and transition bases of the alliance serve to supply the needs of all of the members of the alliance, so that each member of the alliance does not have to maintain a complete inventory of replacement motors. Desirably, motor removal is accomplished at the same time that the replacement motor is transferred to the user's location, enhancing the speed of motor exchange, and minimizing inventory requirements. | 01-15-2009 |
20090024272 | Wireless network and methodology for automotive service systems - A method and apparatus are provided for forming a wireless communications network using a standard communications link between a master controller and at least one slave device. In one example, a list of available slave devices for the network is generated, valid slave devices are determined from the list of available slave devices based on an identification protocol of the standard communications link, and the at least one slave device is selected from the valid slave devices. A network identification is established between the master controller and the at least one slave device, and the network identification is used to establish a network comprising only the master controller and the at least one slave device. | 01-22-2009 |
20090037044 | ELECTRONIC CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VEHICLE DIAGNOSIS - A vehicle diagnosis system includes an electronic control unit, which executes a diagnosing process for determining whether any abnormality is present in a vehicle based on signals from vehicle devices. When any abnormality is detected, the electronic control unit stores in an EEPROM a diagnosis result indicative of the abnormality when a storage permission flag in the EEPROM is in the on-state. The storage permission flag is turned on from the off-state when receiving a storage permission command from an external unit. Thus, the storage of the diagnosis result into the EEPROM may be permitted at the time of transmitting the storage permission command externally to the ECU. | 02-05-2009 |
20090043446 | Data acquisition and display system for motor vehicles - The present invention is directed toward a data acquisition and display system for vehicles that includes a GPS receiver and connects to the vehicle's on-board computer(s) via a data link connector. The system includes a display module suitable for permanent or temporary attachment within the interior of a vehicle. The display module includes a display computer including a suitable processor, operating system, software and tangible data storage media to allow multiple user configurable functions for display on a full color monitor that also functions as a touch screen for inputting commands to the computer. The display module collects information from the GPS receiver via direct electrical communication and/or vehicle via multiple busses and senders through the data link connector and displays the information on the screen of the display module in a user configured graphics format. The direct connection between the display module and the data link facilitates bi-directional communication with the vehicle's on-board computer(s) for diagnostics as well as reprogramming of the on-board computer(s) which may be accomplished in real-time. | 02-12-2009 |
20090055045 | CODE EVALUATOR TOOL WITH URGENCY INDICATOR - A diagnostic tool and method are provided wherein the diagnostic tool includes indicators to indicate the condition of the vehicle using a database and the DTCs present in the vehicle. The tool indicates for each DTC retrieved from the vehicle, the level of repair urgency. The tool also can indicate if the vehicle can be driven without damaging the vehicle. | 02-26-2009 |
20090062980 | VEHICULAR POSTURE ESTIMATION DEVICE AND VEHICULAR POSTURE ESTIMATION METHOD - The present invention provides a vehicular posture estimation device for estimating a posture of a vehicle, including: a first processor, which determines a vehicular velocity, a roll axial component of a vehicular acceleration in a roll axis and a pitch axial component of the vehicular acceleration in a pitch axis and an angular velocity around a yaw axis in a vehicular coordinate system of the vehicle; and a second processor, which calculates the posture of the vehicle according to a composite operator of a first operator representing a rotation of a global coordinate system for matching a Z axis of the global coordinate system to the yaw axis, and a second operator representing the rotation of the global coordinate for matching an X axis and Y axis of the global coordinate system to the roll axis and pitch axis of the vehicular coordinate system, respectively, on the basis of a determination result from the first processor. | 03-05-2009 |
20090062981 | VEHICULAR BEHAVIOR DETERMINATION DEVICE AND VEHICULAR BEHAVIOR DETERMINATION METHOD - According to a vehicular behavior determination device ( | 03-05-2009 |
20090069973 | WARNING METHOD AND DEVICE FOR DEVIATION OF A MOVING VEHICLE - A warning method for deviation of a moving vehicle and the device of the same uses a video camera to continuously capture road images behind the vehicle and generates a video signal. A graphics processor analyzes a static background of the road based on the video signal, analyzes whether the vehicle deviates from its original path, and decides whether any moving object approaches the vehicle. In any abnormal circumstance, the graphics processor outputs a signal to a microprocessor. The microprocessor then drives an alarm to set off a warning signal to notify the driver. | 03-12-2009 |
20090076678 | Cellular Phone Configured with Off-Board Device Capabilities and Starter/Charger and Battery Testing Capabilities - The present invention is directed toward a cellular phone that connects to an existing vehicle data link to perform the functions of an off-board device, such as a scan tool, for displaying diagnostic information relating to vehicles. In addition, the cellular phone connects to a starter/charger system and/or a battery to perform the functions of a starter/charger/battery testing device. Such a device allows a user to connect the cellular phone to a data link connector located in a vehicle, download software to either an adaptor or the cellular phone, retrieve information relating to diagnostic tests on the vehicle and view the results on the cellular phone display, and/or communicate the results to another person or device. | 03-19-2009 |
20090082917 | Vehicular Drive Assist System and Vehicular Drive Assist Method - A vehicular drive assist system that analyzes information collected from a vehicle and sends a result of analysis to the vehicle and/or another vehicle, including a vehicle-mounted apparatus ( | 03-26-2009 |
20090082918 | Motions Dynamics Recorder - A motion dynamics recorder is provided, including a controller; a sensor array in communication with the controller, and configured for measuring at least one characteristic of the motion of a vehicle and/or its systems and environment; a memory module slot for receiving a removable, local memory module; and an optional, distal crash resistant case containing a remote memory module; wherein the controller is configured to generate data from the measurements and to write the data to the removable, local memory module, when the removable memory module is inserted in the slot, and/or the optional remote memory module. | 03-26-2009 |
20090088924 | Vehicle tracking, communication and fleet management system - A vehicle fleet management information system identifies location and direction of movement of each vehicle in a fleet in real-time, and automatically reports such information, as well as status of predetermined events in which the vehicle is engaged, directly to the fleet manager. Each fleet vehicle has an assigned time slot to transmit its reporting information over a communications network without interfering with transmissions from other vehicles in their own respective time slots. A timing control phase lock loop (PLL) provides precise time synchronization for timing corrections from a global positioning system (GPS) based time reference. A dual band full-duplex interface of the network has TDMA on one-half and broadcast on the other half. Microprocessor time processing units in components of the network perform precise clock synchronization. Space diversity performed on received vehicle transmitted messages avoids data corruption. Different vehicles have different periodic transmission intervals, by dynamically allocating the slots for various update rates. Auxiliary reporting slots enable prompt reporting of important data by the respective vehicle transmitters independent of the slower periodic transmission intervals. | 04-02-2009 |
20090105900 | Reconfigurable Structure Method of Estimating Vehicle Lateral Velocity - A system, method and computer program product is provided for estimating the lateral velocity of a vehicle. The method comprises providing a plurality of estimation structures, each estimation structure corresponding to one of a plurality of dynamic regions in which a vehicle may operate, determining in which of the plurality of dynamic regions the vehicle is operating to identify a first dynamic region, and generating a first regional lateral velocity estimation from a first estimation structure corresponding to the first dynamic region. | 04-23-2009 |
20090105901 | System for utilizing vehicle data and method of utilizing vehicle data - A system for monitoring vehicle operating data and transmitting same to a central processing center. The central processing center analyzes the received data and transmits the analyzed data to other vehicles. | 04-23-2009 |
20090112395 | SYSTEM FOR DETECTING A BATTERY MALFUNCTION AND PERFORMING BATTERY MITIGATION FOR AN HEV - A system for detecting malfunction of a battery in a hybrid electric vehicle and optionally mitigating the battery fault. A neural network forms a diagnostic circuit which receives signals representative of the required driveshaft torque and speed over a diagnostic period and a prior state of charge of the battery at the beginning of the diagnostic period as input signals. The diagnostic circuit generates an output signal representing a difference between an estimated state of charge of the battery at the end of the diagnostic period and the actual state of charge of the battery. In the event that the difference exceeds a predetermined threshold, a battery fault signal is generated. The battery fault signal may be employed to vary the engine speed and/or torque to perform battery fault mitigation by increasing the state of charge of the battery. | 04-30-2009 |
20090112396 | AUTOMOBILE SERVICING METHOD, DIAGNOSTIC SERVER AND AUTOMOBILE THEREOF - An exemplary automobile servicing method includes: registering basic information of automobiles and service stations; receiving a self-check report, positional coordinates of one of the automobiles; analyzing the self-check report to generate diagnostic results of the automobile; selecting a desirable one of the service stations capable of performing a preventive maintenance or repair of the automobile according to the diagnostic results and the positional coordinates of the automobile; searching and transmitting prices of each item of the diagnostic results and positional coordinates of the desirable service station to the automobile, for one or more of the items being selected to generate a service order; receiving and transmitting the service order to the desirable service station, for informing the desirable service station to prepare for performing the preventive maintenance or repair of the automobile according to the service order. An exemplary related automobile and diagnostic server are also provided. | 04-30-2009 |
20090125178 | Automotive ECU Mobile Phone Interface - A system uses a mobile phone to extract automotive data from an automobile's engine control unit. The system translates the data into human readable form. The translated data is displayable on the mobile phone. The translated data is also transmitted over a network, such as the Internet, in order to call for roadside assistance and to inform repair personnel of the needed repairs. | 05-14-2009 |
20090132110 | Checking Of Repairs For Electronic Vehicle Systems - The solution is arrived at with a computer-based diagnostic tester which can exchange information with the control devices installed in the motor vehicle using a diagnostic program via a diagnostic interface and via data lines. The motor vehicle-mounted control devices have program routines for self-diagnostics of the control devices and are capable of storing identified faults in the form of fault codes in reserved memory areas. The diagnostic program which is implemented in the diagnostic tester reads the fault codes out from the reserved memory areas, interprets the fault codes and displays them on a display together with the interpretations. In order to check to what extent repairs which have been performed have been successfully concluded, status polling is carried out using the diagnostic program implemented in the diagnostic tester. During this status polling, the status information of all the fault codes known in the system is interrogated and evaluated. In the process, all the fault codes whose fault setting conditions have either been tested positively or whose test requirements were not present in order to be able to carry out a test are displayed. A method for improved checking of repairs is also presented with the diagnostic tester. | 05-21-2009 |
20090132111 | REAL-TIME AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE TERMINAL - There is described a method for maintenance of an aircraft component, the method comprising: connecting electrically to the aircraft component via a maintenance terminal; retrieving maintenance data relating to the aircraft component using the maintenance terminal; performing maintenance operations on the aircraft component by entering data via a user interface on the maintenance terminal; and communicating in real time with a remote operator by transmitting and receiving at least one of voice signals and data signals wirelessly across a network via the maintenance terminal while performing the maintenance operations | 05-21-2009 |
20090138153 | ADVANCED ALGORITHM FRAMEWORK - A method for performing diagnostics on a system of a vehicle includes the steps of receiving a request form an external source, obtaining data relevant to the request, processing the request using the data, and generating a report based at least in part on the processing of the request. The report comprises a diagnostic vector and a life usage vector. The diagnostic vector comprises diagnostic information for the system based at least in part on the processing of the request. The life usage vector comprises information as to usage of the system throughout a life history of the system, based at least in part on the processing of the request. | 05-28-2009 |
20090143935 | REMOTE MONITORING SYSTEM FOR A BATTERY MODULE OF AN ELECTRIC VEHICLE - A remote monitoring system for a battery module of an electric vehicle timely monitors the battery module of the electric vehicle mainly through a detection recorder provided in the electric vehicle. The detection recorder records the physical and electrical variables of the battery module and sends the data to the remote system through a communication unit. If the recorded data contains an abnormal condition of the battery module, the remote system wirelessly sends a signal through the telecommunication equipment; for example, through a wireless base station, a message telling a fault is sent to the receiving end of the user who in advance registers, reminding the user of overhauling the vehicle as soon as possible or inform the user of the vehicle's condition for the car owner's driving safety. | 06-04-2009 |
20090157252 | VEHICLE ELECTRONIC SYSTEM AND VEHICLE - In a vehicle electronic system including a plurality of LSI boards, LSIS which cannot control a user interface such as image or audio directly issue a command for notifying a vehicle occupant of its own information via networks and an information control LSI receives the request to output a message. A mechanism for setting priority of processings regarding LSI status information notification to be lower than that of an apparatus control processing is provided in each of LSIs and networks so that real-time property of the apparatus control processing is maintained. In order to reduce network load regarding the LSI status information notification, a message content itself is stored in a memory in a vehicle information processing unit previously so that only an ID for identifying the message content is transmitted. | 06-18-2009 |
20090157253 | Vehicle Data Acquisition System and Method - A vehicle data acquisition system and method are provided for the analysis of vehicle conditions. A vehicle-external communication device, a vehicle-internal communication device, a vehicle-external computer and a vehicle-external databank are utilized. For providing an informative vehicle data acquisition system, on the basis of the data in the vehicle-external databank, the vehicle-external computer identifies those vehicles which have a first characteristic profile. The vehicle-external computer queries vehicle data from the identified vehicles by way of the vehicle-external and the vehicle-internal communication devices, and the vehicle-external computer evaluates the queried and received vehicle data for the analysis of vehicles having the first characteristic profile. | 06-18-2009 |
20090177352 | System and Method for Motor Vehicle Diagnosis and Vehicle Reception - A vehicle diagnosis system for ascertaining, storing and transmitting diagnosis data from control units in a motor vehicle to a computer outside of the motor vehicle has components which are inside of the vehicle and components which are outside of the vehicle. The onboard components are capable of autonomously requesting diagnosis data from control units, buffer-storing the diagnosis data and of transmitting the diagnosis data to offboard components. The offboard components can be used to configure the onboard components, to visually display the transmitted data and to forward said data to subsequent systems. Access is effected using a communication module, which is preferably implemented in a diagnosis control unit with a dedicated gateway and which is not the control unit for the central locking. A gateway for diagnosis applications is present in the vehicle in the case of vehicles with a diagnosis CAN bus or with another diagnosis bus. | 07-09-2009 |
20090177353 | NETWORK SYSTEM FOR AUTOMOTIVE SHOPS - The invention relates to a network system for automotive shops including at least one computer-aided automotive shop machine and a respective computer network, wherein the computer-aided machine is connected to the computer network by communicating by transmitting information signals on a power supply line. Further, the invention relates to a machine for an automotive shop with a computer and communication means configured to communicate by transmission of information signals on a power supply line to at least one peripheral functionality over a communication line. | 07-09-2009 |
20090204287 | Diagnostic System and Diagnostic Test with a WLAN Transmission Module - The invention relates to a motor vehicle diagnostic system for acquiring and storing diagnostic data and transmitting them from control units in a motor vehicle to a computer outside the motor vehicle. The system is composed of components which are located inside the vehicle and of components which are located outside the vehicle. Using a transmission module, in which a short diagnostic test is implemented, diagnostic data from onboard components are interrogated and are transmitted via a WLAN link to the computer system of a service company. The diagnostic data of the onboard components can be further processed using the computer system. The disclosed invention is aimed in particular at assisting a service employee in the vehicle reception of a service workshop. | 08-13-2009 |
20090204288 | Workshop System with a Plurality of Diagnostic and/or Programming Devices Networked by Data Links for Vehicles - A workshop system, with a plurality of diagnostic and/or programming devices, which are networked by means of data links and are intended for vehicles is provided. In order to enhance the reliability of workshop systems of the prior art, a warning indicating the occurrence of an event, which requires that a workshop employee intervene at a moment's notice at a first diagnostic and/or programming device of the networked devices is forwarded, as an alternative or in addition, to a second or an additional diagnostic and/or programming device to be communicated to the workshop employee. | 08-13-2009 |
20090216399 | VEHICLE DIAGNOSING APPARATUS, VEHICLE DIAGNOSING SYSTEM, AND DIAGNOSING METHOD - A vehicle diagnosing apparatus, a vehicle diagnosing system, and a diagnosing method enable the determination of completion of a repair or part replacement on a vehicle while adapting to changes in environment and overcoming temporal or spatial restrictions. The vehicle diagnosing apparatus reads diagnostic information from an on-board diagnosing unit on the vehicle that detects an abnormality in an on-board device. A result of a maintenance work performed on the on-board device is finalized by a maintenance result finalizing unit. A determination unit determines the appropriateness of the finalized maintenance work result with reference to determination information stored in a database that is continuously updated. The result of the determination is indicated by a notifying unit. Analogy is used to obtain the diagnostic information when the on-board device requires a long time or a certain condition to provide accurate diagnostic information. | 08-27-2009 |
20090240391 | Configuration of an Electronic Control System for Controlling the Operation of at Least One Component of a Vehicle - An electronic control system for controlling the operation of at least one component of a vehicle includes: a microcontroller; programmable non-volatile memory, wherein the microcontroller is configured to process input signals from at least one vehicle sensor to provide output signals for controlling the at least one vehicle component in accordance with programme data read at least partly from the programmable non-volatile memory; and an interface enabling a programming unit to programme at least part of the programme data into the programmable non-volatile memory. A method of configuring the electronic control system includes: obtaining data based on sensor signals and pertaining to the vehicle during its operation; analysing the data based on sensor signals; determining an appropriate set of programme data based on the analysis; and causing a programming unit on board the vehicle to programme the appropriate set into the programmable non-volatile memory. | 09-24-2009 |
20090240392 | CONTROL DEVICE, CONTROL METHOD, CONTROL DEVICE OF VEHICLE, AND CONTROL SYSTEM OF VEHICLE - Provided is a control device including: a storage portion for storing binary data transmitted from outside and received successively; and a control portion for carrying out processing including: production processing of producing a frame where of the stored binary data, pieces of data expressing events occurring in a predetermined period are placed into a group among which pieces of data expressing events each having a small degree of variation are arranged so as to be close to each other; difference computing processing of arranging the frames produced at intervals of the predetermined time in a predetermined order and of computing a difference between two adjacent frames; compression processing of compressing a result of the computation by a run length method; and recording processing of recording, to a recording portion, a first frame in the difference computing processing, a number of difference computations, and the compressed data. | 09-24-2009 |
20090248236 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATING VEHICLE DIAGNOSTIC DATA - A system and method for communicating vehicle diagnostic data via an inactive telematics unit. A serious diagnostic condition detected in the vehicle is used to trigger a call from the telematics unit to a call center using a cleared number. During the call, diagnostic data can be transmitted to the call center and a temporary number can be provided by the call center to the telematics unit to permit temporary communication. Additional diagnostics can be run and reported using this temporary number. | 10-01-2009 |
20090248237 | METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR USER CONFIGURABLE EMBEDDED TELEMATICS SERVICE ARCHITECTURE - The present invention provides a configurable embedded telematics system comprising: a server suite providing automotive telematics services to a plurality of authorized service users via a global network, the server suite including a user management utility, an application server, a vehicle interface module server, a telematics database, and a user configuration utility; and a vehicle interface module including an operations controller, an on-board resource and an on-board application comprising an event monitor module, a data logging module, and a user configuration module. | 10-01-2009 |
20090248238 | VEHICLE MOUNTED FAILURE INFORMATION SYSTEM - A failure information system that transmits various kinds of failure information of a vehicle to an outside diagnosis service center is disclosed. The failure information system includes a signal receiving unit that receives a signal indicating a failure of a vehicle-mounted system, a vehicle-run judging unit that judges that the vehicle is running, a run-distance calculation unit that calculates a run-distance of the vehicle since the signal indicating a failure is received, a reliability judging unit that judges that the signal indicating a failure is reliable if the signal receiving unit continuously receives the signal indicating a failure until the run-distance becomes a preset distance level, and an over-vehicle communication unit that transmits a failure information that includes the signal indicating a failure when the reliability judging means judges that the signal indicating a failure is reliable. | 10-01-2009 |
20090248239 | FAILURE DETECTION DEVICE, FAILURE DETECTION SYSTEM AND FAILURE DETECTION METHOD - A failure detection device is provided that includes a failure detecting portion that detects a failure in an on-board device and sends failure information and failure notification information; a collection portion that is related to the failure detecting portion for control and receives and collects the failure information sent by the failure detecting portion; and a control portion that receives the failure notification information sent by the failure detecting portion and then sends failure reception information to the collection portion. The collection portion further receives and collects the failure reception information. The failure detection device further includes a determining portion that identifies the failure information from the failure information and the failure reception information collected by the collection portion. | 10-01-2009 |
20090254241 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COLLECTING DATA FROM MANY VEHICLES - A system and method are provided for collecting data from many vehicles. A vehicle unit with several connectivity options is installed in each vehicle. Each vehicle unit transmits driving characteristic information to a server which records all of the data it receives. In addition, the server is able to interact with the vehicle unit to provide information. A user then requests a particular report or statistic from the server. The server then takes the driving characteristic information from each vehicle including, but not limited to: emissions information, a global navigation satellite system, vehicle brand, geographic area, time of day, crashes, average speed, speed variances, accelerations, acceleration variation, sudden acceleration frequency, sudden deceleration frequency, and car location, and compiles it into data. The server then provides reports and statistics and transmits the report or statistic to the user requesting it. | 10-08-2009 |
20090254242 | ELECTRONIC CONTROL APPARATUS AND VEHICLE CONTROL SYSTEM - A vehicle electronic control apparatus stores vehicle identification information uniquely assigned to a vehicle and vehicle individual information related to the vehicle. When the vehicle identification information is overwritten with new vehicle identification information, it is determined whether the vehicle identification information is equal to the new vehicle identification information. If it is determined that the vehicle identification information is different than the new vehicle identification information, the vehicle individual information is cleared at a time when the vehicle identification information is overwritten with new vehicle identification information. If it is determined that the vehicle identification information is equal to the new vehicle identification information, the vehicle individual information is not cleared at the time when the vehicle identification information is overwritten with new vehicle identification information. | 10-08-2009 |
20090254243 | ON-BOARD MACHINE, FREQUENCY COLLECTING DEVICE, AND FREQUENCY COLLECTING METHOD - Provided is an on-board machine capable of readily examining whether a self-diagnosing mechanism operates in a normal manner while satisfying statutory requirements. The on-board machine includes an EEPROM for storing a failure diagnosis executing frequency calculated on the basis of a failure diagnosis executed by an electronic control device under a predetermined travel condition set in advance, and a control portion for transmitting the failure diagnosis executing frequency stored in the EEPROM in response to a transmission demand for the executing frequency of the failure diagnosis from an external frequency collecting device | 10-08-2009 |
20090259358 | Automotive DTC live data diagnostics - It is the object of this invention to provide a system and method in the form of a program called automotive DTC live data diagnostics for analyzing live data, in real time, wherein received and analyzed diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) are programmed to open the live data mode, selecting only the live data related to the tests used to determine the DTCs and loads and displays all the PIDs, flagging the abnormal PIDs. The invention eliminates the necessity of manually scanning through possibly several hundred PIDs in order to determine the abnormal PIDS. | 10-15-2009 |
20090259359 | VARIABLE INTENSITY HAPTIC LEVEL CONTROL BASED ON VEHICLE CONDITIONS - A haptic control system and a method for controlling a tactile feedback, wherein the haptic control system and the method control the tactile feedback in response to a vehicle condition, are disclosed. The haptic control system for a vehicle includes a vehicle information system adapted to generate and transmit a vehicle information signal including data and information representing a vehicle condition and a controller adapted to receive the vehicle information signal, analyze the vehicle information signal, and generate and transmit a control signal for controlling a tactile feedback in response to the vehicle information signal. | 10-15-2009 |
20090259360 | DETERMINING MICROENVIRONMENT CONDITIONS - Systems and methods for generating a microenvironment condition report. The microenvironment condition report is generated from information related to a plurality of vehicle conditions. The vehicle condition information is gathered from a plurality of in-vehicle technologies such as a stability control system, ABS, and navigation system. The vehicle condition information is sent to a remote terminal that organizes the information with respect to a set of microareas. The information for each microarea is analyzed and used to generate the microenvironment condition report. | 10-15-2009 |
20090259361 | VEHICLE MONITOR - A system and method is disclosed for monitoring a motor vehicle. The system includes a sensor unit for collecting at least one vehicle statistic and a portable device for displaying the vehicle statistics. The portable device requests the vehicle statistics from the sensor unit at regular intervals or in response to a particular event and displays statistics on a built-in display screen. In one embodiment, the portable device may be attached to the keys used to operate the vehicle being monitored. | 10-15-2009 |
20090265059 | SYSTEM FOR MANAGING OPERATION OF INDUSTRIAL VEHICLES - An industrial vehicle has a controller connected to a plurality of sensors for accumulating information related to operation of the vehicle. The controller employs that information in governing further vehicle operation to reduce the likelihood of damage to the vehicle or a load being transported. The information also is analyzed to determine how efficiently the industrial vehicle and its operator are performing in relation to performance benchmarks for the vehicle and in comparison to other industrial vehicles. Performance of the industrial vehicle can be limited to conserve battery power and restrict recharging the battery to off-peak hours of an electrical utility. When the sensors detect a malfunction of the industrial vehicle, a fault code is produced. A service technician can use that fault code to automatically access service manuals stored in the computer system of the vehicle and obtain information for diagnosing and correcting the malfunction. | 10-22-2009 |
20090271062 | CONTROL SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FILTERING DEPENDENT DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES - A control system includes an input that one of receives and transmits diagnostic data including a fault identifier and a fault status of the fault identifier, and a filter module that filters said diagnostic data based on a comparison of the diagnostic data and a data array, wherein the data array includes a dependent identifier and a corresponding root cause identifier. The control system may be included with one or more of a vehicle control module and a service tool. A related method is also provided. | 10-29-2009 |
20090271063 | ELECTRONIC CONTROL UNIT AND VEHICLE CONTROL SYSTEM - When an electronic control unit receives a rewriting request of vehicle identification information, the electronic control unit writes state information indicating a rewriting state in a memory and rewrites the vehicle identification information into new vehicle identification information. The electronic control unit sends an erasing order to a peripheral electronic unit for erasing failure information stored in the peripheral electronic unit and determines whether the peripheral electronic control unit sends an erasing completion signal indicating that the erasing of the failure information is completed. The electronic control unit erases the state information indicating the rewriting state when the rewriting of the vehicle identification information is completed and the peripheral electronic control unit sends the erasing completion signal. | 10-29-2009 |
20090271064 | ELECTRONIC CONTROL SYSTEM FOR VEHICLE - An electronic control unit performs self-diagnosis based on signals received from various sensors, and stores abnormality data in an EEPROM when abnormality is detected. The DTC is stored in a first memory area and a second memory area of the EEPROM, if a condition flag stored in the EEPROM is OFF and ON, respectively. The condition flag is switched from OFF (initial value) to ON, when service start data is received from a telematics service center in a period from the completion of assembling the electronic control unit to the vehicle to the start of use of the vehicle by a user. | 10-29-2009 |
20090276116 | G.P.S. MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - A management system using Global Positioning System receivers for tracking remote units from a central office and quickly and conveniently determining if those remote units have varied from a set of predetermined parameters of operation. The system also includes provisions that allows information to be sent from the remote units to the central office and vice versa. The system also has safety features that promote the rapid dispatch of law enforcement personnel when requests for emergency assistance have been made from the remote units. | 11-05-2009 |
20090276117 | Simultaneous Vehicle Protocol Communication Apparatus and Method - A diagnostic tool for simultaneously communicating with a plurality of motor vehicle control units and implements at least two different communication protocols within a single motor vehicle. The diagnostic tool includes a processor and a field programmable gate array. The processor simultaneously executes a plurality of diagnostic routines and thereby provides messages to at least two of the plurality of motor vehicle control units. The field programmable gate array provides a selectable multiple protocol interface to simultaneously accommodating the at least two different communication protocols. The field programmable gate array is coupled between the plurality of motor vehicle control units and the processor. The selectable multiple protocol interface simultaneously converts the messages from the processor into a format readable by the selected motor vehicle control units and simultaneously converting received control unit information into a format readable by the processor. | 11-05-2009 |
20090287369 | Method and System for Providing Supplemental Services to Telematics Systems - The embodiments of the present innovation provide a method and system for providing supplemental services to telematics systems. The method and system receives data from a telematics provider in a non-proprietary format, parses the data, stores the data, provides the data to a third party application, obtains an output from the third party application, and transmits the output to a customer. The method and system may also receive data from any portable device, parse the data, store the data, provide the data to a third party application, obtain an output from the third party application, and transmit the output to a customer. | 11-19-2009 |
20090287370 | FAILURE DIAGNOSIS SYSTEM, AND VEHICLE-MOUNTED ECU FOR USE IN THE FAILURE DIAGNOSIS SYSTEM - A failure diagnosis system that erases diagnostic information applied to a vehicle that includes an ECU for that stores a vehicle identification number (VIN) and diagnostic information (hereinafter, referred to as “VIN storage ECU”), and an ECU that does not store the vehicle identification number but stores the diagnostic information (hereinafter, referred to as “other ECU”) is characterized by being constructed so as to erase the diagnostic information stored in the VIN storage ECU and also erase the diagnostic information stored in the other ECU in connection with the writing of the vehicle identification number stored in the VIN storage ECU. | 11-19-2009 |
20090292416 | APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR REMOTELY TESTING MULTIPLE COMMUNICATION CHANNEL INPUTS TO A VEHICLE COMPUTER - An embodiment of the present invention includes an apparatus for remotely testing a plurality of communication channel inputs to an automobile computer. The apparatus may include a microprocessor electrically connected to a persistent memory. The memory may have stored therein communication channel test messages corresponding to each of two or more communication channel inputs to an automobile computer. At least one of the communication channels is a wireless communication channel. The microprocessor may be configured to output a test message over a selected communication channel to the automobile computer. | 11-26-2009 |
20090292417 | VEHICLE FAILURE ANALYSIS SYSTEM, VEHICLE FAILURE ANALYSIS APPARATUS, AND VEHICLE FAILURE ANALYSIS METHOD - A vehicle failure analysis system for a vehicle equipped with a plurality of control systems, each of which includes one or more components, includes: a faulty system identification unit that identifies a faulty control system from among the plurality of control systems; and a faulty component identification unit that identifies a faulty component from among the one or more components which are constituents of the identified control system. | 11-26-2009 |
20090299566 | Vehicle-mounted information system, and data gathering method in diagnostic equipment - A diagnostic equipment coupled to a vehicle network makes an inquiry about internal information, e.g., yes or no whether there is a logging-available memory area, with respect to each of a plurality of ECUs, and only to any of the ECUs making a response of yes, e.g., having such a memory area, a notification is made when some defect is observed. The internal information is then gathered from the ECU, and in response to an inquiry about the internal information coming from the diagnostic equipment, the ECU forwards back information about yes or no for logging thereto. When the ECU is available for logging, log data that has been periodically accumulated is forwarded back as a response with respect to a retrieval request therefor from the diagnostic equipment. | 12-03-2009 |
20090299567 | Driver activity and vehicle operation logging and reporting - A method for logging and reporting driver activity and vehicle operation includes identifying a driver of a vehicle, recording operating data with an on-board recorder that is hard-wired to an engine control module, coupled to a mileage sensing system, and linked to a global navigation satellite system, and recording duty status of the driver. An hours of service log and a fuel tax log are created from the operating data. The method includes comparing the driver's hours of service log to an applicable requirement, indicating to the driver whether the driver is in-compliance or out-of-compliance with the applicable requirement, automatically uploading the logs to a receiver external to the vehicle using a wireless telecommunications network, and emitting a compliance signal representative of whether the driver is in-compliance or out-of-compliance with the applicable requirement to a second receiver external to the vehicle and under control of authorities. | 12-03-2009 |
20090306848 | DRIVING RECORDER - This invention intends to provide a vehicle-mounted driving recorder that can obtain necessary situation data only surely and accurately and that can contribute to effective use of a memory and to facilitation of an after-the-fact analysis of the situation data. The vehicle-mounted driving recorder comprises a situation data receiving section that receives situation data as being data indicating behavior, a surrounding situation and an operation situation of a vehicle and that temporarily stores the situation data in a temporary data storage section specified in a predetermined area of a memory, and a data administration section, in case that a plurality of contents indicated by the received situation data satisfy a previously specified given condition, that transfers a part or all of the situation data during a certain period before and after a time when the condition is satisfied from the temporary data storage section to the situation data storage section specified in a predetermined area of the memory. | 12-10-2009 |
20090306849 | SYSTEM FOR DIAGNOSIS OF MOTOR VEHICLES, AND FOR RECEPTION OF VEHICLES AT A REPAIR FACILITY - In a diagnostic system, messages which have occurred are collected and buffered with a short diagnostic test which is implemented in a control unit onboard the vehicle. The collected data are then transmitted into a memory area of the portable electronic driving authorization record, which therefore always contains the result of a short diagnostic test which has been carried out onboard. The result of this short diagnostic test is read out from the memory of the driving authorization record with a computer system in the customer reception of a servicing workshop, and is processed with a more wide-ranging diagnostic algorithm which builds on the result of the short diagnostic test. | 12-10-2009 |
20090306850 | System for monitoring DPF using wireless communication - The present invention relates to a system for monitoring DPF which can inform a point of time for regenerating the DPF to a driver. The system for monitoring DPF using wireless communication, which comprises a filter for gathering PM (Particulate Matter) and at least one or more pressure sensors and temperature sensors, comprises a monitoring part and a server system. | 12-10-2009 |
20090312899 | MONITORING VEHICLE AND EQUIPMENT OPERATIONS AT AN AIRPORT - A sensor network for monitoring vehicle operations comprises a set of wireless gateways, a plurality of wireless sensors, a plurality of wireless routers, and data processing system. The set of wireless gateways is capable of receiving emissions data from the sensor network. The plurality of wireless sensor units has sensors capable of monitoring vehicle emissions and is capable of generating the emissions data in response to monitoring the vehicle emissions. The plurality of wireless routers is capable of receiving emissions data received from the plurality of wireless sensor units and routing the emissions data received from the plurality of sensors to the set of wireless gateways. The data processing system is capable of receiving the operations data from the set of wireless gateways and capable of processing the operations data. The operations data may include data related to emissions from the vehicle or equipment. | 12-17-2009 |
20090319119 | GATEWAY CONTROL APPARATUS FOR VEHICLES AND TRAVEL INFORMATION RECORDING METHOD THEREOF - A gateway control apparatus for vehicles includes a receiver receiving travel state information sent from sensors and vehicle ECUs through interfaces, a first memory storing the travel state information, a determination unit determining occurrence of a vehicle accident or an ECU malfunction based on the travel state information, a second memory, and a controller allowing the second memory to store malfunction information of an associated ECU among the travel state information if the ECU malfunction has occurred, and allowing the first memory to store pre-accident travel state information and post-accident vehicle state information with reference to an accident occurrence time point if the vehicle accident has occurred. The gateway control apparatus enables not only data communication between the ECUs having different communication modes, but also accurate analysis of causes of the vehicle accident or the ECU malfunction. A travel information recording method of the gateway control apparatus is also disclosed. | 12-24-2009 |
20090326758 | WEBSERVICE ARCHITECTURE FOR VEHICLE HEALTH MAINTENANCE - A webservice architecture for vehicle health maintenance is provided. A core module is in communication with a webservice provider, a webservice consumer, and a webservice registry over an internet protocol (IP) backbone. The core module is adapted for registering and discovering the webservice provider using a universal description, discovery, and integration (UDDI) communications open standard, receiving a request from the webservice provider using a simple object access protocol (SOAP), the webservice provider accepting the request from the webservice consumer, and extracting a data structure based on the webservice request in a format according to the webservice registry using a web services description language (WDSL). | 12-31-2009 |
20090326759 | ENHANCEMENT OF THE FUNCTIONALITY OF SERIES SOFTWARE IN A CONTROL UNIT - A method for enhancing the functionality of series software of a control unit, in particular for a motor vehicle, having the steps of providing a control unit having an interface to which an external hardware device may be connected, having a non-volatile series software memory area in which the series software is stored, and having a volatile upload memory area, connecting an external hardware device, in which upload software is stored, to the interface loading the upload software from the external hardware device into the volatile upload memory area of the control unit, and executing the upload software in the upload memory area, the execution of the upload software enhancing the functionality of the series software by a diagnostic and/or test function. | 12-31-2009 |
20100004812 | Method for On-Board Data Backup for Configurable Programmable Parameters - A method provides for transferring back-up data between on-board electronic modules of a vehicle. The presence of default parameters is sensed at a first electronic module during a running of the vehicle engine for an engine cycle. The current engine cycle accumulation register data is stored for the engine cycle in the first electronic module. A parameter and accumulation register data recovery routine is run wherein parameters and accumulation register data for the first electronic module are recovered from memory in the second electronic module on the vehicle and restored in the memory of the first electronic module. The information is transferred using SAE J1939 protocol. The first electronic module can be an engine control unit and the second electronic module can be a body controller. During a parameter and data back-up routine periodically run, the first electronic module stores current parameters and accumulation register data into memory of the second electronic module that will serve as back-up parameter and accumulation register data storage in the event the first module loses such parameters and accumulation register data. | 01-07-2010 |
20100004813 | Method and Apparatus for Transmitting Data Between a Tachograph and a Data Processing Device - A system and method for transmitting data via a transmission path between a tachograph arranged in a vehicle, and a data processing device which is remote from the vehicle. To improve data protection, the transmission takes place via a first path section of the transmission path, which path section is arranged between the tachograph and a communication controller arranged in the vehicle, and a second wireless path section of the transmission path, which path section is arranged between the communication controller and the data processing device. The tachograph in response to an encryption request signal sent from the data processing device to the tachograph encrypts data sent from the tachograph to the data processing device. The data is transmitted in encrypted form from the tachograph to the data processing device both via the first path section and via the second path section. | 01-07-2010 |
20100004814 | ELECTRONIC CONTROL DEVICE - An electronic control unit performs a process that stores into a buffer selected diagnostic trouble codes (DTC) currently in a volatile trouble code storage by selecting, from among multiple codes, a code that is to be saved in an EEPROM, when an ignition switch of a vehicle is turned off. Further, the DTC stored in the buffer is written in the EEPROM. If the electronic control unit receives, from a scan tool a command that instructs erasure of the DTC in the volatile trouble code storage, the above-described process is performed before erasing the DTC from the volatile trouble code storage. | 01-07-2010 |
20100010705 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR MONITORING VEHICLE DATA - A method of installing a vehicle data-monitoring device and a substitute vehicle data connector into a vehicle having a vehicle data-monitoring system with an existing vehicle data connector. The method comprises the steps of: removing the existing vehicle data connector from a socket in the vehicle; inserting the substitute vehicle data connector into the socket; connecting the vehicle data connectors such that the existing vehicle data connector is in communication with the vehicle data-monitoring device and also in communication with the substitute vehicle data connector. | 01-14-2010 |
20100010706 | VEHICLE CONTROL AND INTERCONNECTION SYSTEM - An integrated system to control peripherals in a vehicle includes a control and interconnection system having a supervisory processor and/or supervisory control. The control and interconnection system is responsive to feedback from peripherals associated with the vehicle. Moreover, the supervisory processor supervises a plurality of peripherals in communication with the control and interconnection system, where at least one of the plurality of the peripherals includes a controller and is associated with at least one of the: vehicle dynamics, vehicle power train and vehicle body, of a corresponding vehicle. Still further, the supervisory processor provides control information to each of the plurality of peripherals to coordinate performance characteristics based upon at least one operating condition that is determined by the control and interconnection system. | 01-14-2010 |
20100023201 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR OBTAINING VEHICLE DATA - A computer implemented apparatus, and computer usable program code for automatically obtaining vehicle data. In one advantageous embodiment a computer implemented method monitors a vehicle for events over a wireless interface. In response to receiving an event sent over the wireless interface by the vehicle, a determination is made whether vehicle data is needed for the event based on a policy. A request for the vehicle data is sent over the wireless interface to the vehicle in response to a determination that vehicle data is needed. The vehicle data is stored in response to receiving the vehicle data over the wireless interface from the vehicle. The vehicle data stored after receiving the vehicle data from the vehicle is analyzed to form an analysis. A set of fault conditions may be identified using the analysis. | 01-28-2010 |
20100023202 | Method for judging the drivability of vehicles - The invention relates to a method for judging the drivability of vehicles having the following steps:
| 01-28-2010 |
20100023203 | DIAGNOSIS SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ASSISTING A USER - A system and method for facilitating a user in diagnosing a vehicle is provided. The method comprises receiving a signal from the vehicle utilizing a diagnostic manager module, the signal having diagnostic data configured to identify one or more faults in the vehicle; processing the signal to select a set of predetermined instructions that assists the user in correcting the one or more faults; accessing the set of predetermined instructions from a database; and communicating the set of predetermined instructions interactively with the user in a step-by-step manner through a series of visuals. | 01-28-2010 |
20100023204 | POWER MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - A vehicle communication system facilitates hands-free interaction with a mobile device in a vehicle or elsewhere. Users interact with the system by speaking to it. The system processes text and processes commands. The system supports Bluetooth wireless technology for hands-free use. The system handles telephone calls, email, and SMS text messages. The user can customize the device via a user profile stored on an Internet web server. The system also includes a plurality of power conservation features. | 01-28-2010 |
20100036558 | CONTROL APPARATUS FOR VEHICLE - In a microcomputer, a signal processing device computes a control signal, such as an accelerator position, a throttle position, based on a sensor output signal, such as an output signal of an accelerator position sensor, an output signal of a throttle position sensor. A torque control device executes a torque control operation to coincide an actual torque with a requested torque based on the control signal. Furthermore, a torque monitor device determines whether a torque increase abnormality exists based on the control signal. A signal abnormality diagnosis device determines whether an operational abnormality of the signal processing device exists based on a relationship between the sensor output signal and the control signal. A monitor IC monitors operational states of the torque monitor device and of the signal abnormality diagnosis device and determines whether an operational abnormality of the torque monitor device or of the signal abnormality diagnosis device exists. | 02-11-2010 |
20100042287 | PROACTIVE VEHICLE SYSTEM MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCE BY USING DIAGNOSTIC AND PROGNOSTIC INFORMATION - A system and method for providing proactive vehicle system management and maintenance using diagnostic and prognostic information. Vehicle information is collected from vehicle sensors and/or sub-systems by an on-board module on the vehicle and/or at a remote facility where the information is wirelessly transmitted to the remote facility. The collected information is analyzed to determine the health of various systems, sub-systems and components so that the remaining useful life of the systems, sub-systems and components can be predicted. By utilizing the diagnostic and prognostic information, a vehicle control strategy can be reconfigured to minimize customer impact. Further, if a software problem is detected, temporary or permanent software fixes can be provided automatically and remotely through a remote service garage. | 02-18-2010 |
20100042288 | Docked/Undocked Vehicle Communication Interface Module - A diagnostic system that includes a vehicle communication interface (VCI) and a diagnostic tool is provided. When the VCI and the diagnostic tool are coupled together through a wired connection, the VCI and the diagnostic tool can communicate with each other and provide power, as needed, to each other. The VCI and the diagnostic tool can also communicate with each other wirelessly when the are not directly coupled to each other. The VCI and the diagnostic tool are configured so that communication is uninterrupted when going from the wired connection to the wireless connection and vice versa. | 02-18-2010 |
20100049395 | METHODS AND APPARATUS FOR MONITORING VEHICLE DATA - The invention relates to a method of installing a vehicle data-monitoring device and a substitute vehicle data connector into a vehicle having a vehicle data-monitoring system with an existing vehicle data connector, the method comprising the steps of: removing the existing vehicle data connector from a socket in the vehicle; inserting the substitute vehicle data connector into the socket; connecting the vehicle data connectors such that the existing vehicle data connector is in communication with the vehicle data-monitoring device and also in communication with the substitute vehicle data connector. | 02-25-2010 |
20100049396 | System for Detecting Interrupt Conditions During an Electric Vehicle Charging Process - A computer implemented method, apparatus, and computer usable program code for managing a charging process of an electric vehicle. The process begins by monitoring a set of operational parameters of the charging process for one or more interruptions in response to receiving, from an energy transaction execution engine, a request signaling the start of the charging process. The process then detects the one or more interruptions from the set of operational parameters, which conform to a set of predefined interrupt conditions. In one embodiment, the one or more interruptions include at least one of a device capability interruption, a preference interruption, and a data services interruption. The process sends a response to the energy transaction execution engine to terminate the charging transaction in response to detecting the one or more interruptions. | 02-25-2010 |
20100049397 | FUEL EFFICIENT ROUTING - Techniques are described to determine a fuel-efficient route for a vehicle. In an implementation, a determination is made, based on the one or more characteristics of the vehicle, as to a route between an identified location and a designated location that would cause the vehicle to consume a lesser amount of fuel when traveling between the identified and designated locations. Accordingly, the route may be represented, such as for use in navigating to the designated location. | 02-25-2010 |
20100049398 | VEHICLE MOVEMENT PROCESSING SYSTEM - A method as system for determining movement of a vehicle by measuring one or more output signals indicative of acceleration of the vehicle along an axis output from one or more accelerometers installed in the vehicle and processing the output signals to produce movement data characterising the movement of the vehicle. The movement data is used to determine whether one or more predetermined movements of the vehicle has occurred. | 02-25-2010 |
20100057290 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COOPERATIVE VEHICLE DIAGNOSTICS - Embodiments described herein comprise a system and method for corroborative vehicle diagnostic. The corroborative vehicle diagnostic system allows a vehicle to detect a fault indicator experienced by a vehicle subsystem. The corroborative vehicle diagnostic system allows the vehicle to compare the fault indicator with similar and/or dissimilar conditions experienced by one or more additional vehicle located within a geographic region. A corroborative diagnostic controller compares the fault indicator with the conditions of the additional vehicle. Based on the comparison of the fault indicator with the condition, an error status of the fault indicator is determined. The error status may be that the vehicle subsystem has failed, that the vehicle subsystem has not failed and/or that the results are inconclusive. The corroborative diagnostic controller may communicate directly with a control system of the vehicle. | 03-04-2010 |
20100057291 | System and Method for Adjustment of a Steer Angle of a Wheel of a Motor Vehicle - A system for adjusting a wheel lock angle of a wheel of a motor vehicle, in particular of a rear wheel, wherein at least one wheel guide member, by means of which a wheel carrier of the wheel is connected to a vehicle body, wherein the wheel carrier can pivot about a rotational axis which runs substantially parallel to the plane of the wheel and the wheel guide member is coupled to the wheel carrier at a distance from the rotational axis, and wherein the length of the wheel guide member can be adjusted by an actuator, wherein at least one actuator is driven by a motor and at least one control unit, and the control unit includes a computer unit with a memory and a communication interface, and the control unit transmits and receives data via the communication interface by means of at least one communication bus. | 03-04-2010 |
20100057292 | ABNORMALITY ANALYSIS SYSTEM FOR VEHICLE AND ABNORMALITY ANALYSIS METHOD FOR VEHICLE - When an abnormality of a vehicle is detected based on a vehicle state value that indicates the vehicle state, an abnormality analysis system for the vehicle estimates a cause of the abnormality. The abnormality analysis system includes: a factor identifying information extraction unit that extracts factor identifying information which is used to identify a factor of the abnormality based on the vehicle state value; a database that contains data groups which correspond to respective categories of the factor identifying information and which store causes of abnormalities and vehicle state values at the time of occurrence of the abnormalities; and an abnormality cause estimation unit that executes a process for estimating the cause of the abnormality of the vehicle with the use of the data group that corresponds to the category of the factor identifying information extracted by the factor identifying information extraction unit. | 03-04-2010 |
20100063670 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF SYNCHRONIZING AN IN-VEHICLE CONTROL SYSTEM WITH A REMOTE SOURCE - The present application relates to an in-vehicle control system for synchronizing files with a remote source. The remote source includes a storage device configured to store a first file. The system includes a communications device capable of establishing a wireless communication link with the remote source. The communications device is configured to send, receive, or both send and receive files to and/or from the remote source. The system further includes a memory device configured to store a second file. The system yet further includes a data processing device coupled to the communications device, the data processing device configured to perform a comparison of the first file of the remote source and the second file of the memory device, wherein the data processing device is further configured to synchronize the file of the remote source and the file of the in-vehicle control system based on the comparison. | 03-11-2010 |
20100063671 | METHOD AND MEASURING SYSTEM FOR DETERMINING A WHEEL LOAD - A method and a measuring system determine a wheel load. These involve measuring a deformation of a tire and using a set of equations and equation parameters to calculate from the deformation the wheel load acting on the tire. In addition, a wheel load or a variable dependent on the load, which is used to calculate the wheel load, is received from an external system. Finally, the two wheel loads determined in different ways are compared, and the equations and/or equation parameters are adapted on the basis of the comparison. | 03-11-2010 |
20100070128 | VEHICLE OPERATION BY LEVERAGING TRAFFIC RELATED DATA - A platform is provided for receiving traffic related data collected from a network of sensors and forwarding traffic related data to on-vehicle technologies. The on-vehicle technologies include hardware and software components and are configured to enable motorists to make informed decisions on operation of their vehicles regarding fuel economy and road safety. The on-vehicle technologies may also be enabled to automatically adjust vehicle operation parameters such as automatic turning off and on of the engine at a stop light based on traffic related data received from the platform. | 03-18-2010 |
20100070129 | VEHICLE DATA RECORDER - A vehicle data recorder comprises a front end RF receiver and a memory device for storing sampled satellite positioning signal data from the 5 front end receiver. The memory device stores a block of sampled data corresponding to a time period leading up to the time of an incident involving the vehicle. The data can be stored with a low cost system, and can be analysed after the incident by a remote data processing station. | 03-18-2010 |
20100076644 | VEHICLE DIAGNOSTIC EQUIPMENT PROVIDING HANDS FREE OPERATION - A voice activated vehicle diagnostic system provides for hands free operation of the system. Using such a system it is possible for the diagnostic system to be used safely in a test drive of the vehicle with the operator of the system not required to physically touch the system to implement one or more tests as required. | 03-25-2010 |
20100082199 | Failure determination apparatus for vehicle, failure determination method and computer readable medium for failure determination - A failure determination apparatus for a vehicle includes: a failure determination element configured to determine that failure occurs at the vehicle when a state with failure detection continues for a first period, and to determine that the failure is resolved when a state without the failure detection continues for a second period; a notification element configured to notify failure information to an external device when the failure determination element determines that the failure occurs at the vehicle; a repair completion detection element configured to detect completion of repair of the vehicle with respect to the failure; and a short-cut element configured to shorten the second period when the repair completion detection element detects the completion of repair of the vehicle. | 04-01-2010 |
20100087983 | TRACKING VEHICLE MAINTENANCE USING SENSOR DETECTION - Radio frequency identification is used in cooperation with the computer system aboard a motor vehicle to track service and maintenance activities relating to the vehicle. Each component or part of the vehicle that may require maintenance is provided with a unique passive identification tag. The output data from the tag is read by a reader placed in proximity to the tag, and the data is transmitted to an on-board computer module where it is processed, and the service record is updated. A data stream converter may be used to process the information read by the reader into a format that is acceptable to the on-board computer. The data from the on-board computer is stored in a device external to the computer. Provisions are included for notification to the user, the auto dealer or service other agency as needed. | 04-08-2010 |
20100087984 | DEVICES, SYSTEMS, AND METHODS FOR MONITORING DRIVER AND VEHICLE BEHAVIOR - Systems, devices, and techniques for remotely tracking vehicle and driver behavior. Embodiments may include an on-board vehicle monitoring device, comprising an interface device and a gateway device. The interface device may include receiving information from a diagnostic system of a vehicle. The gateway device may collect a set of vehicle operating data corresponding to a driver or vehicle behavior. The set of vehicle operating data may comprise at least some of the information from the diagnostic system of the vehicle. A host computer may have instructions for compiling driver behavior data, based at least in part on analysis of received vehicle operating data. The instructions may also include instructions for providing a user interface; and instructions for causing the user interface to display, for a user, information corresponding to the compiled driver behavior data. | 04-08-2010 |
20100100276 | Imaging apparatus and drive recorder system - An imaging apparatus mounted on a vehicle and imaging a vicinity of the vehicle, includes a photographic lens, an image pickup device, an accident detection sensor, an image processing section, and a recording section. The image pickup device generates an image signal by performing photoelectric conversion of an object image based on a light flux from the photographic lens. The accident detection sensor detects an accident occurrence based on a shock to the vehicle. The image processing section generates first accident image data and second accident image data which photograph the same accident situation at an accident occurrence, based on the image signal. The recording section records the first accident image data and the second accident image data in different states of security levels regarding data credibility, respectively. | 04-22-2010 |
20100100277 | VEHICLE ODOMETER USING ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC INFORMATION - A vehicle has an engine and an on-board computer that controls the function of the engine. The on-board computer also provides diagnostic information, including instantaneous vehicle speed. The vehicle has an odometer that is present in the passenger compartment. The invention samples the instantaneous vehicle speed from the on-board computer and determines the distance traveled by the vehicle. The sampling rate can be adjusted depending on the speed of the vehicle. The odometer information can be sent off the vehicle by way of a transceiver. | 04-22-2010 |
20100106361 | INTEGRATED BATTERY SERVICE SYSTEM - An integrated battery service system performs a plurality of services related to a battery, such as battery testing, battery charging, and the like. In addition, the integrated service system provides services to devices/components that are coupled to the battery, such as starters, alternators, etc. The integrated battery service system allows a user to abort a service and then resume the process from where the process was aborted. When conducting a service, the integrated battery service system determines a noise level caused by devices/components coupled to the battery. The integrated battery service system includes connectors configured to couple to a battery for receiving input signals, a processor coupled to the connectors, and a memory device coupled to the processor for storing control codes and operation history. The control codes, when executed by the processor, control the system to selectively abort a service in response to a user input. Since the memory stores operation histories, the processor may access the memory to retrieve data related to the aborted service and parameters obtained during the service before the process was aborted. The system reinstates the aborted service in response to another user input. | 04-29-2010 |
20100114425 | Wireless Vehicle Test Equipment - A system using a number of portable or wrist-worn remote controller units that communicate with a number of sensor units or sensor head sets for vehicle or automotive testing. An optional central communications controller can coordinate communications between the wrist-worn units and the sensor sets. A particular remote unit can associate with particular sensors or a particular sensor set and thus receive and transmit data only with that sensor set. Mechanics or technicians can run tests and take data completely from the remote units. The remote units generally contain a display screen that can show all parts and results of any vehicle test procedure. Various wireless communications techniques can be used to establish this communication. | 05-06-2010 |
20100121522 | METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR SHARING TRAFFIC INFORMATION - A system that incorporates teachings of the present disclosure may include, for example, a communication device having a controller to receive from a system a broadcasted vehicle velocity, detect that a difference between a velocity of a vehicle carrying the communication device and the broadcasted vehicle velocity exceeds a threshold, and determine from a random policy whether to transmit the velocity of the vehicle to the system. Additional embodiments are disclosed. | 05-13-2010 |
20100121523 | Mobile Wireless Local Area Network - A mobile wireless local area communications network includes a pair of relatively movable nodes, such as a vehicle and a house, which are movable into and out of a defined and limited area of communications relative to the fixed node. Each node has a computer and human interface capabilities to enable transfer of data between the nodes. Each has the ability to automatically connect/disconnect the nodes when the movable node moves into/out of the area of communications. The system causes performance of a function extrinsic to the communication itself as a result of the initiation or the cessation of the communication, even after the nodes have been disconnected. | 05-13-2010 |
20100131149 | AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE METHOD AND DEVICE - The invention relates to a method for the maintenance of an aircraft including an avionics system comprising a set of operating units. The invention is characterised in that the avionics system is connected to a ground-based infrastructure via at least one communication medium. The inventive method comprises: at least a step in which maintenance data stored in the ground-based infrastructure and relating to the malfunction of at least one operating unit are obtained via the at least one communication medium, and a step in which said at least one operating unit is repaired on the basis of the maintenance data obtained. | 05-27-2010 |
20100138103 | Vehicular diagnostic method, vehicular diagnostic system, vehicle and center - When determining that a failure has occurred, a vehicle ( | 06-03-2010 |
20100138104 | MARINE VESSEL MONITORING SYSTEM - The marine vessel monitoring system of the present invention enables marine vessel owners to monitor their vessels when they are unable or unavailable to personally do so. The system of the present invention provides an efficient method for inspecting and repairing a designated marine vessel at periodic intervals and for reporting the results of such inspections and repairs to the vessel's owner in a timely manner for the owner's review and consideration. | 06-03-2010 |
20100145569 | Method and System for Providing Environmentally-Optimized Navigation Routes | 06-10-2010 |
20100145570 | VEHICULAR COMMUNICATION SYSTEM, VEHICULAR INFORMATION COLLECTING SYSTEM, AND VEHICULAR COMMUNICATION PROGRAM - According to a vehicular communication system ( | 06-10-2010 |
20100145571 | IN-VEHICLE TERMINAL FOR DIAGNOSING VEHICLE USING OBD CONNECTOR - Provided is an in-vehicle terminal including: a GPS receiving unit that receives GPS signals; a communication interface unit that is connected to the vehicle diagnosis connector and receives auto diagnosis information from the vehicle diagnosis connector, and communicates with an electronic control unit in the vehicle through the vehicle diagnosis connector; a control unit that receives and processes the auto diagnosis information and the GPS signal, and calculates traveling information, information about driving conditions, information about parts conditions, and information about replacement of consumables, in order to allow a driver to diagnose condition of the vehicle; and an interactive unit that displays the traveling information, information about driving conditions, information about parts conditions, and information about replacement of consumables for a driver. | 06-10-2010 |
20100145572 | METHOD FOR SUPPORTING THE AUTOMATION OF AGRICULTURAL WORK OR SERVICE - A method for supporting the automation of agricultural work or service includes collecting data, further processing the collected data using context processing rules to form a context profile, selecting process information using process assignment rules and depending on the context profile, and performing agricultural work or service depending on the process information that was selected, so that it is possible to largely automate the performance of agricultural work or service. | 06-10-2010 |
20100152960 | ON-LINE VEHICLE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - An on-line vehicle management system includes a vehicle group having a plurality of vehicles and an in-vehicle telematics unit in each vehicle. A call center is in selective operative communication with each telematics unit and an Internet-enabled program. The call center receives vehicle data from each vehicle in response to a predetermined trigger, and stores the received data in a database. The Internet-enabled program includes a Gregorian calendar with spreadsheet functionality. The Internet-enabled program automatically receives at least some of the stored data from the call center, and inputs the received data into predetermined calendar cells. The Internet-enabled program is also configured, in response to a predetermined user request, to i) render the received data accessible to an authorized user associated with the vehicle group, ii) generate reports based on the received data, and iii) at least one of derive or calculate information from the received data. | 06-17-2010 |
20100152961 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MANAGING PASSENGER AND VEHICLE SAFETY - A method and system for managing passenger and vehicle safety is disclosed. The method includes registering a passenger based on an identification parameter received from the passenger when the passenger boards a vehicle. The method further includes monitoring a set of vehicle status parameters associated with the vehicle in real time. The method also includes generating a notification when a predefined notification condition occurs. The predefined notification condition is associated with at least one of the vehicle status parameters and the identification parameter. The method further includes deregistering the passenger based on the identification parameter when the passenger exits the vehicle. | 06-17-2010 |
20100152962 | System and Method for Performing Real-Time Data Analysis - A data monitoring and analysis system suitable for performing real-time monitoring of vehicle information systems installed aboard a passenger vehicle fleet and methods for manufacturing and using same. The data monitoring and analysis system includes a loadscript system for establishing a communication channel with each vehicle information system. Continuously receiving performance data accumulated by the vehicle information systems, the loadscript system validates and parses the performance data and provides the resultant performance data to a database system for further analysis. The database system enables fleet operators to generate reports with consolidated performance data for the vehicle fleet, to stratify the performance data based upon one or more variables, and/or to drill down into subsets of the performance data to understand root causes underlying system performance. A large volume of performance data accumulated by the fleet thereby can be presented in a meaningful manner for rapid human intervention, as needed. | 06-17-2010 |
20100161169 | VEHICLE HEALTH MONITORING ARCHITECTURE FOR DIAGNOSTICS AND PROGNOSTICS AS A SERVICE IN AN E-ENTERPRISE - A health monitoring system for a vehicle system includes a plurality of diagnostics systems and a bus. Each of the plurality of diagnostics and prognostics systems corresponding to a different sub-system of the vehicle system and configured to at least facilitate generating diagnostic and prognostic system output pertaining to the sub-system based at least in part on data, each of the plurality of diagnostics and prognostics systems comprises a diagnostics component comprising an analytics framework and a core. The analytics framework is configured to receive formatted data and to generate diagnostic determinations based at least in part thereon. The core is coupled to the analytics framework, and is configured to transform data into formatted data and provide the formatted data to the analytics framework. The bus is coupled to the plurality of diagnostics and prognostics systems, and is configured to at least facilitate providing the data thereto. | 06-24-2010 |
20100161170 | TRAILER UTILIZATION SYSTEMS, METHODS, COMPUTER PROGRAMS EMBODIED ON COMPUTER-READABLE MEDIA, AND APPARATUSES - The disclosed systems, methods, apparatuses, and computer programs embodied on computer-readable media may enable a shipping carrier to determine the utilization of a trailer in a delivery network by receiving and aggregating disparate types and sources of shipping information, including, for example, package billing data from a customer order, scan data from the loading and unloading of packages transported by the trailer, dimensional data received from dimensional scans of packages at carrier shipping hubs, and/or trailer data including the volume of the trailer. Utilization may be determined for each trailer in a carrier delivery network or for a subset of trailers in the network. The determined utilizations may be used to determine the parameters for an optimized delivery network, which may include the addition, elimination, and/or modification of the delivery schedule. Network optimization may be an iterative process that may be continually performed using continually updated trailer utilization statistics. | 06-24-2010 |
20100161171 | INTERWORKING AMONG AUTOMOBILE BUSES, PORTABLE USER EQUIPMENT AND MOBILE NETWORKS - An interworking module and method are described herein which allows information to be exchanged between a user terminal (e.g., mobile phone) and a communication bus which is installed within a vehicle. The communication bus is connected to different components (e.g., engine sensors, on-board diagnostic systems, video-audio equipment, heating-cooling equipment, stereo system, and seats) which are installed within the vehicle. | 06-24-2010 |
20100161172 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MANAGING A VEHICLE COMPONENT USING TEMPORARY ON-BOARD DATA STORAGE - A system for managing a vehicle component includes a controller executing a task, at least one of a receiver and a transmitter for transmitting data to/from an off-board communication unit, and a memory. The memory temporarily stores at least a portion of the data received from or transmitted to the communication unit and subsequently deletes at least some of the data the controller has completed executing the task and/or communication with the external communication unit is complete. A method for managing a component of a vehicle using temporary storage in on-board memory is also disclosed. | 06-24-2010 |
20100161173 | Method for Providing Driving Operation Data - A method provides driving operation data in a network for wirelessly exchanging driving operation data. A first motor vehicle connected to the network by communication technology determines the absolute driving operation data of a second motor vehicle by way of at least one environment sensor disposed in the first motor vehicle. The absolute driving operation data of the second motor vehicle are transmitted by the first motor vehicle to at least one other subscriber to the network. | 06-24-2010 |
20100168955 | VEHICLE INSPECTION APPARATUS - The vehicle inspection apparatus is for inspecting behavior of at least one control object mounted on a vehicle whose behavior is controlled through behavior control performed by a control section included in a control system mounted on the vehicle in accordance with a behavior request inputted from an external device. The vehicle inspection apparatus includes a behavior judging section to judge whether or not the control object is abnormal on the basis of a detected behavior value of the control object and an estimated behavior value of the control object, whose dimensions have been matched with each other. | 07-01-2010 |
20100174444 | REMOTE DIAGNOSIS MODELLING - A diagnosis and maintenance method, a diagnosis and maintenance assembly comprising a central server and a system, and a computer program for diagnosis and maintenance for a plurality of systems, particularly for a plurality of vehicles, wherein each system provides at least one system-related signal which provides the basis for the diagnosis and/or maintenance of/for the system are provided. The basis for diagnosis and/or maintenance is determined by determining for each system at least one relation between the system-related signals, comparing the compatible determined relations, determining for the plurality of systems based on the result of the comparison which relations are significant relations and providing a diagnosis and/or maintenance decision based on the determined significant relations. | 07-08-2010 |
20100174445 | ASCII gateway to in-vehicle networks - ASCII gateway to in-vehicle system provides bi-directional translation between multiplexed motor vehicle networks and industrial control and monitoring devices. Integrated hardware and software components provide data communications between motor vehicle electronic control module networks and RS-232 serial ASCII-text capable device, for industrial control and/or industrial automation application in manufacturing or assembly operations. Communications networks (CAN, SAE or ISO protocols) implemented inside motor vehicles pass data'between electronic control modules that control operation of important vehicle components like engine, transmission and brake systems, have their messages converted to RS-232 serial ASCII-text; and from RS-232 serial ASCII-text converted to motor vehicle communications network by the system. Messages to monitor and/or control vehicle networks are generated by a serial ASCII-test capable device. Multiple vehicle protocols are supported by the system. The system translates between RS-232 serial ASCII-text message generated or received by a device and the vehicle network. | 07-08-2010 |
20100174446 | AUTOMOTIVE DIAGNOSTIC PROCESS - A method of processing vehicle diagnostic data is provided for identifying likely vehicle fix(s) associated with a diagnostic data, and identifying a repair procedure(s) for correcting the likely fix(s). The process receiving vehicle diagnostic data from a vehicle onboard computer at a remote diagnostic database, the database being arranged to map vehicle diagnostic data to possible vehicle fix(s). The possible vehicle fix(s) are prioritized in accordance with ranked matches of the received diagnostic data to combinations of diagnostic data stored in a prior experience database. The prior experience database having an identified fix associated with each stored combination of diagnostic data. The fix associated with the highest ranked combination of diagnostic data is identified as the most likely fix. The most likely fix is mapped to a vehicle repair database, the most likely fix being directly mapped to an associated repair procedure for repairing the most likely fix. | 07-08-2010 |
20100179720 | AUTONOMOUS VEHICLE MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR SYSTEM - A system and method for providing autonomous and remote vehicle maintenance and repair. The system employs an on-board diagnosis and prognosis module that monitors one or more vehicle buses to identify trouble codes and other information indicating a vehicle problem. The on-board module causes a telematic device on the vehicle to broadcast a message including a problem code that identifies the problem the vehicle is having. A remote repair center may receive the message and may identify a software upgrade patch associated with the problem that can be transmitted to the vehicle to upgrade its software to correct the problem. Also, the message may be received by another vehicle that is part of a broadcast network that has previously received the software upgrade patch to fix a problem on that vehicle, where the receiving vehicle may transmit the software upgrade patch to the vehicle having the problem. | 07-15-2010 |
20100179721 | ENGINE MONITORING - A method and device for creating an accurate simulation or model of the performance of a vehicle or an internal combustion engine in accordance with the invention comprises accessing the engine on-board diagnostic port (OBD), reading data from the desired industry standard parameter indicators (PID), using these data to produce a basic simulation of the engine operating characteristics, accessing and reading non-industry standard PIDs and using the output from the basic simulation in order to identify the non-industry standard PIDs with a high degree of certainty. As it may not be possible to identify some or all of the required non-industry standard PIDs or their scale due to timing delays or coding, an additional feature of the invention is to prompt a driver of a vehicle to drive the vehicle in a certain way or to perform a certain operation of the engine in order to trigger an event which will assist in identifying the missing non-industry standard PID(s) or will increase the degree of correlation or certainty in identifying the function or the scale of the said non-industry standard PID. | 07-15-2010 |
20100185356 | Compiling Source Information From A Motor Vehicle Data System and Configuring A Telematic Module - A method for configuring a telematic module ( | 07-22-2010 |
20100185357 | ELECTRICALLY-DRIVEN APPARATUS CHARGING SYSTEM AND METHOD - The degrees of exhaust emission suppression and contribution to the environment are evaluated, and a point is added according to the degree of contribution. A system is configured by including an electric vehicle ( | 07-22-2010 |
20100185358 | EMISSION MONITORING DEVICE AND METHOD - An emission monitoring device is disclosed for a vehicle including but not limited to a lightweight housing for operationally encapsulating: a processor; a computer program including but not limited to computer readable instructions embedded in a tangible non-transitory computer readable medium; a sensor for each vehicle component to be monitored; a display device; and a power supply for power the device; the computer program including but not limited to instructions to analyze fuel being injected into the vehicle from data output from each sensor; capture data from each sensor; store the captured data from each sensor into the memory; calculate performance attributes based upon the captured data; store the performance attributes; and display the performance attributes of each vehicle component onto the display device. A method is provided for monitoring emissions using the emission monitoring device. | 07-22-2010 |
20100185359 | DRIVING DIAGNOSIS APPARATUS AND DRIVING DIAGNOSIS SYTEM - A driving diagnosis apparatus temporarily records a diagnosis result of the user before changed when a user is switched, and starts to diagnose the user after changed. Accordingly, since driving status of each user is independently diagnosed, the diagnosis result is proper. Further, when a driving distance of the vehicle is smaller than a threshold, the diagnosis result of a driving interval is not recorded so that the driving interval is removed from an object of giving a point. Influence to environment is also considered in evaluation of the driving status. Accordingly, in the driving diagnosis apparatus and a driving diagnosis system for diagnosing driving status and for evaluating a driver based on the diagnosis result, the diagnosis and the evaluation are properly performed. | 07-22-2010 |
20100191410 | System of Control Devices in a Motor Vehicle With Protected Diagnostics Access Points and Method of Using the System - A system of control devices are provided in a motor vehicle, which control devices communicate by way of one or more databuses of the motor vehicle. The system exhibits at least two diagnostics access points, by way of which the state of at least one of the control devices is diagnosed on the basis of a diagnostics request message; in particular, an error memory entry of a control device is requested by way of one of the diagnostics access points and is transmitted to the outside. In order to make the known system of control devices in a motor vehicle with at least one diagnostics access point more cost effective, a diagnostics request message, which is fed to the system by way of the first diagnostics access point, is recognized as such by an identification and forwarding system and is transmitted to a checking system. The checking system checks at least the authenticity of the diagnostics request messages and, optionally, forwards it to that control device, for which the diagnostics request message is intended. | 07-29-2010 |
20100191411 | Driver Risk Assessment System and Method Employing Selectively Automatic Event Scoring - A Driver Risk Assessment System and Method Employing Selectively Automatic Event Scoring. The system and method provides robust and reliable event scoring and reporting, while also optimizing data transmission bandwidth. The system includes onboard vehicular driving event detectors that record data related to detected driving events, selectively store or transfer data related to said detected driving events. If elected, the onboard vehicular system will score a detected driving event, compare the local score to historical values previously stored within the onboard system, and upload selective data or data types to a remote server or user if the system concludes that a serious driving event has occurred. The system may further respond to independent user requests by transferring select data to said user at a variety of locations and formats. | 07-29-2010 |
20100191412 | CRITICAL EVENT REPORTING - A fleet management system for remotely monitoring a vehicle is disclosed in one embodiment. The fleet management system includes a data receiver and a display. The data receiver is configured to wirelessly receive information from the vehicle. That information includes a location for the vehicle. The display is configured to present a planned route configured for the vehicle before travel and a driven route of the vehicle. The driven route is determined from the information from the vehicle. The planned route and driven route are displayed simultaneously. | 07-29-2010 |
20100198453 | Systems and Methods for Integrating a Portable Electronic Device with a Bicycle - Systems and methods are providing for interfacing an electronic device with a bicycle system. The electronic device can receive the output from sensors coupled to the bicycle and generate riding characteristics for display to the user. The electronic device can in addition receive communications from other electronic devices and provide the communications to the user. In some embodiments, the electronic device can be paired with the devices of one or more other cyclists so that the cyclists can share riding characteristics and other information. This can allow the cyclists to ride as a team and better assist each other. | 08-05-2010 |
20100198454 | TRAFFIC INFORMATION PROCESSING APPARATUS, TRAFFIC INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SERVER, TRAFFIC INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM - Provided is an apparatus and the like for improving the communication efficiency of travel information and the like by taking account of the degree of necessity of collecting the travel information of a vehicle in view of an operating state or attribute of the vehicle. A traffic information processing apparatus ( | 08-05-2010 |
20100198455 | INFORMATION DISTRIBUTING SYSTEM AND VEHICLE-MOUNTED DEVICE - An information distributing system and a vehicle-mounted device that are able to distribute or acquire information related to vehicle maintenance. The information distributing system comprises vehicle-mounted devices ( | 08-05-2010 |
20100204877 | Vehicle State Detection - This application describes the detection of the state of a vehicle and various actions to be performed based on the detected state. The detection of the state is done by a portable device, carried by the user, which uses onboard sensors to receive operations indicators, and uses rules in a predetermined criteria to determine the operational state of the vehicle. Various methods are described for detecting the states of the vehicle and applications based upon it. | 08-12-2010 |
20100204878 | Modular Vehicular Diagnostic Tool - A vehicle computer interface and software upgrade tool is in the form of a module. A base module contains basic vehicle interface, information and software. Additional modules can be connected to the base module or similar modules to provide a user or technician with the latest interface and software upgrades for vehicles, new vehicle data and new reprogramming features for existing vehicles. This is an expandable system which enables a user of technician to only purchase a relatively small module or component that contains the new interface or information rather than having to repurchase an entire new scan tool or vehicle analyzer. The modules are readily connectable to a vehicle's data port, commonly known as an OBD II connector or port. The modules also include additional connection ports for power in, power out, USB and/or pin connectors which provide for the export of data and other connectors. These modules can also be used in conjunction with an intelligent cable. The intelligent cable has a small computer embedded within the cable to enable sensitive electronic components to be used without cable transmission losses or electrical disturbances. | 08-12-2010 |
20100211259 | Driver mentoring to improve vehicle operation - A system and method for mentoring a driver of a vehicle can include a monitoring device in communication with an onboard diagnostics unit coupled to an engine, the monitoring device monitoring at least one of a plurality of vehicle parameters received from the onboard diagnostics unit including vehicle speed, fuel level, engine speed, load, mass air flow, manifold air pressure, and odometer reading, and using the at least one of a plurality of vehicle parameters to calculate a fuel efficiency and/or emissions of the engine; and an output coupled to the monitoring device, wherein the output notifies the driver when the fuel efficiency changes. The output can notify the driver when the fuel efficiency and/or emissions increases or decreases. The notification can be visual, audible, or a combination of the two. | 08-19-2010 |
20100211260 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DETECTING THE POLLUTING EMISSIONS OF ROAD VEHICLES OR THE LIKE - System for detecting the polluting emissions of road vehicles or the like, comprising an electronic appliance installable on at least one vehicle and suitable for collecting data relating to the use of the vehicle, and at least one remote unit suitable for determining the polluting emissions of the vehicle, during a predefined time or spatial interval and starting with the collected data. Method for detecting the polluting emissions of road vehicles or the like, comprising collecting data relating to the use of at least one vehicle, and determining the polluting emissions of the vehicle, during a predefined time or spatial interval and starting with the collected data. | 08-19-2010 |
20100217478 | TELEMATICS-BASED VEHICLE STATUS MONITORING AND CUSTOMER CONCERN RESOLVING - A system and method for monitoring the state of health of vehicle components, sub-systems and systems on board the vehicle and/or remotely, and use collected information and data about the vehicle to establish a database for the vehicle as to the state of health of the various components, sub-systems and systems. When a customer brings a vehicle to a service center or dealership complaining about a particular problem, and the service center wishes to replace a part associated with that problem, the OEM or manufacturer can authorize or reject the replacement of the part based on review of the database as to the known state of health of the part. Therefore, only parts which may not be healthy will typically be authorized for replacement. Also, the database can be made available to customers for customer concern resolving. | 08-26-2010 |
20100217479 | Diagnostic connector assembly (DCA) interface unit (DIU) - In a diagnostics system for use on vehicles, wherein the improvement comprises a connector assembly that translates diagnostic connector assembly signals into a digital format suitable for computer based analysis and fault diagnosis on an individual vehicle and vehicle fleet basis. | 08-26-2010 |
20100217480 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING TARGETED AREA MARKETING AND SERVICES IN AN SDARS NETWORK - A targeted area audio distribution system for Satellite Digital Audio Radio Services Receivers (“SDARS”) provides specific content to listeners based on location. A service provider can facilitate delivery of local content using a telematics device installed in the listener's vehicle. The telematics device uses a content database indexed on an identifier formed from coordinates of a desired geographical area to target particular content for users in a targeted area as small as a few blocks. In addition, interstate drivers can receive location specific advertisements for exits that they may be approaching. Digital audio content can be queued up for insertion into the audio stream based on specific locations. The identifier can also be used to report vehicle performance information from a plurality of vehicles to facilitate providing real-time traffic conditions for many traffic corridors. | 08-26-2010 |
20100228428 | INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR INDUSTRIAL VEHICLES - Industrial vehicles communicate across a wireless environment and the wireless communication, data collection and/or processing capabilities of industrial vehicles are leveraged against robust software solutions to implement enterprise wide asset management functions, to integrate industrial vehicle data into existing enterprise workflows and/or to enable trusted third party integration into the enterprise for enhanced asset and/or workflow management. Still further, wireless communication, data collection and/or processing capabilities of industrial vehicles are leveraged with robust software solutions that aggregate and analyze data across multiple enterprises and/or promote the exchange of information between independent entities. | 09-09-2010 |
20100228429 | Internet-based system for monitoring vehicles - The invention provides a method for monitoring a vehicle that features the steps of: 1) generating a data packet including vehicle data retrieved from the vehicle using a wireless appliance; 2) transmitting the data packet over an airlink with the wireless appliance so that the data packet passes through a network and to a host computer system; 3) processing the data packet with the host computer system to generate a set of data; and 4) displaying the set of data on a web page hosted on the internet. | 09-09-2010 |
20100235042 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FACILITATING DIAGNOSIS AND MAINTENANCE OF A MOBILE CONVEYANCE - A system for facilitating diagnosis and maintenance of a control networks on a mobile conveyance comprises one or more wireless ground stations configured to communicate over a wireless communication channel with the control network. A local area computer network receives and responds to messages to or from the control network via the wireless ground stations. The local area computer network may have user terminals, a server computer, a database comprising diagnostic information relating to said control network, and a replacement parts database and/or job auction database. The local area network may also include a wide area network interface, allowing diagnostic information for the control network to be retrieved or parts to be ordered from remote vendor sites. The system may also include wireless handheld, portable equipment for allowing service personnel to perform diagnostic analysis, maintenance, and testing of the mobile conveyance control network. | 09-16-2010 |
20100250051 | METHOD AND SYSTEMS FOR VIRTUAL SENSOR SELECTION AND BLENDING - A method and systems for engine control of a vehicle propulsion system are provided. The system includes a plurality of engine model modules executing independently and programmed to receive engine operating condition values from a plurality of sensors positioned on an engine wherein each of the plurality of engine model modules is programmed to determine an estimate of a process parameter of a location in the engine where a sensor is not available, not present at the location, has failed, or is determined to be inaccurate. The system also includes an estimate source selector configured to determine model blending factors and a model blending module configured to determine an estimated virtual sensor value using the determined estimates from at least two of the plurality of engine model modules and the model blending factors. | 09-30-2010 |
20100250052 | In-vehicle monitor for monitoring vehicle status - An in-vehicle monitor for monitoring a status of a vehicle includes: a monitoring means for monitoring the status of the vehicle; a determination means for determining based on the status of the vehicle whether an obstacle interrupts an operation of an operation object when a user inputs an operation instruction for operating the operation object; and a controller for controlling the operation object to execute the operation corresponding to the operation instruction when the determination means determines that the obstacle does not interrupts the operation, and for controlling the operation object to execute another operation different from the operation corresponding to the operation instruction when the determination means determines that the obstacle interrupts the operation. | 09-30-2010 |
20100250053 | Tachograph, Toll Onboard Unit, Display Instrument, and System - A tachograph and a toll onboard unit as communication partners, which each have a data interface for a data communication via a vehicle data bus to which the communication partners are coupled. The tachograph and/or the toll onboard unit are implemented as a transmitter of data to ascertain a cryptographic check value as a function of user data, which are to be transmitted to the communication partner, and to transmit the cryptographic check value in addition to the user data to the communication partner. The toll onboard unit or the tachograph, respectively, as a receiver of data, is implemented to receive user data and the cryptographic check value associated with the user data from the communication partner and to check the received user data for corruption as a function of the received cryptographic check value. | 09-30-2010 |
20100250054 | System And Method For Transmitting Pollution Information Over An Integrated Wireless Network - A pollution information message system provides a system and method for generating and transmitting pollution information messages. In one embodiment, the pollution information message system employs a transceiver network with a plurality transceivers coupled to monitoring devices. Control room operators receive a pollution information message from an identifiable transceiver. The transceiver, identified by an identification code, indicates a location and the nature of the detected pollution. Other aspects, embodiments, and features are also claimed and described. | 09-30-2010 |
20100262333 | SYSTEM FOR REGISTRATION AND CONTROL OF THE FUEL CONSUMPTION OF A VEHICLE - A system for registration and control of the vehicle fuel consumption, where registration of a first data set that at least includes the volume or weight of fuel consumption and a vehicle identification data are stored in a server which is connected to a communication device for receiving at least a number of first data sets, calculates fuel consumption of each vehicle, the calculation result being compared with a reference data set stored in the served. The server communicates with the owner of a vehicle if the fuel consumption deviates from the stored data set in the server. Fuel consumption data of one or more vehicles is registered automatically whereby the fuel consumption is calculated and several different statistics about fuel consumption obtained from a database. The statistic information for each driver indicates how his/her fuel consumption compares with similar vehicles operating in the same area. | 10-14-2010 |
20100262334 | REWRITING SYSTEM FOR A VEHICLE - A rewriting system comprises a plurality of electronic control units mounted on a vehicle, each of the plurality of electronic control units including a storage for storing control information, and a device for sending new control information to rewrite the control information stored in the storages of the plurality of electronic control units with the new control information. One of the plurality of electronic control units is configured to make a determination whether the rewriting in the other electronic control units has been completed in response to a completion of the rewriting in the one of the plurality of electronic control units, and make a notification of a result of the determination. Thus, the progress of the rewriting for a plurality of control units is automatically determined and notified to a user. The user can immediately recognize the progress of the rewriting work. | 10-14-2010 |
20100262335 | VEHICLE DIAGNOSTIC TOOL WITH PACKET AND VOICE OVER PACKET COMMUNICATIONS AND SYSTEMS INCORPORATING SUCH A TOOL - In an exemplary vehicle service facility that provides vehicle related sales, maintenance services or the like, a diagnostic tool has wireless packet data communication capabilities. To support voice communication, the tool also has one or more audible input/output transducers and a vocoder, and is configured to use VoIP technology or the like to enable wireless packet data transport of voice calls over the same wireless data links. The packet voice capability can support voice communications with technicians using other tools at the facility or with personnel in an office at the service facility. If the facility has a data link to a wide area packet network, like the Internet, the packet voice capability may also support voice communications with other parties having packet service. Examples are technicians at other locations or various personnel of technical support services for the tools or for different types of vehicles. | 10-14-2010 |
20100268411 | Charge monitor apparatus, electric vehicle, and server - In an electric vehicle equipped with a charge system, a communications condition, which is used to execute data communications to transmit to an outside, is previously designated based on an instruction by a user. When the designated communications condition becomes satisfied, the data communications from the vehicle is started to transmit a charge state to a server which is a communications partner designated previously. Therefore, a user can detect the charge state of the electric vehicle without need of accessing the electric vehicle, even if not reaching a full charge state. | 10-21-2010 |
20100268412 | CONTROL SYSTEM FOR VEHICLE AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING IN-VEHICLE APPARATUS - An obtaining unit obtains information about a condition where a vehicle is placed. A detection unit detects at least one of a voice and an action of an occupant of the vehicle. An estimation unit estimates an in-vehicle apparatus to be a controlled target according to the condition where the vehicle is placed. A determination unit determines an in-vehicle apparatus to be a controlled in-vehicle apparatus and determines a control content thereof in consideration of the at least one of a voice and an action. A notification unit notifies the occupant of the in-vehicle apparatus to be controlled and the control content thereof determined by the determination unit. A control unit controls the in-vehicle apparatus according to the determination of the determination unit when receiving a response to the notification of the notification unit from the occupant to permit the control of the in-vehicle apparatus. | 10-21-2010 |
20100268413 | ELECTRONIC TECHNICAL LOGBOOK - A system, a method, and a computer program are provided for recording technical issues of an aircraft. A server unit is adapted to store and output data related to technical issues of an aircraft. A client unit sends an access request to a server, which receives and processes this request, permits access to the data and restricts the adding or modifying processing of the data to one client unit at a time. For use during flight tests on board of the aircraft, a snapshot of the data may be transferred to a mobile computer, while the data on the server unit is restricted to read-only. After the flight test, the modified data is transferred back to the server unit and the read-only restriction is removed. | 10-21-2010 |
20100274439 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR INDICATING TO A REMOTE LOCATION OPERATION OF AN AUGER OR THE LIKE - The systems and methods of the present invention employ either a sensor in communication with the auger or a sensor in the form of a switch operated by the user of the auger. When the sensor detects that the auger is operating or the switch is operated by the auger operator, an indication of auger operation is published to a remote location. The indication may be in the form of an aural or visual indication or in the form of a wireless transmission. | 10-28-2010 |
20100274440 | SYSTEM AND METHOD OF MANAGING VEHICLE AND DRIVER INFORMATION - The present invention relates a system and method of managing vehicle and driver information. According to the present invention, internal status information and external environment information of a vehicle, and a driver's behavior information, are gathered to calculate the driver's workload that is required for careful driving and inform the workload to the driver, which leads to careful driving. Further, the information input to the terminal is sent to an observation center without manual control of the driver so that the observation center can collect and store the information in real time. Furthermore, the driving history, driving habits of the driver, and the amount of consumed fuel can be provided through the terminal and the driver access to the server in the observation center, which improves the driving habits of the driver and provides information about economical driving. | 10-28-2010 |
20100274441 | METHOD OF IDENTIFYING POSITIONS OF WHEEL MODULES - There is provided a method of identifying locations of one or more modules of an apparatus implemented in a vehicle for monitoring operation of at least one wheel of the vehicle, the one or more modules operatively mounted to revolve with the at least one wheel, the one or more modules being operatively coupled in communication with a processing arrangement of the vehicle, the one or more modules being operable to sense at least one physical parameter of the wheel and to generate at least one corresponding sensor signal for the processing arrangement, the processing arrangement being operable to process the at least one sensor signal to compute information indicative of operation of the at least one wheel. The method includes steps of:
| 10-28-2010 |
20100280703 | Awarding Privileges to a vehicle based upon one or more fuel utilization characteristics - A device may include a determination module for determining at least one of a status indicative of combustible fuel utilization or a status indicative of electricity utilization for propelling a hybrid vehicle; and a transmitter coupled with the determination module for transmitting the at least one of the status indicative of combustible fuel utilization or the status indicative of electricity utilization for the hybrid vehicle to an off-site entity. | 11-04-2010 |
20100280704 | Awarding standings to a vehicle based upon one or more fuel utilization characteristics - A method may include, but is not limited to, receiving a status indicative of combustible fuel utilization in comparison to electricity utilization for a vehicle and conveying a standing, the standing based upon the status indicative of combustible fuel utilization in comparison to electricity utilization for the vehicle. | 11-04-2010 |
20100280705 | Awarding standings to a vehicle based upon one or more fuel utilization characteristics - A method may include, but is not limited to, transmitting to an off-site entity a status indicative of combustible fuel utilization in comparison to electricity utilization from a vehicle. | 11-04-2010 |
20100280706 | Awarding standings to a vehicle based upon one or more fuel utilization characteristics - A method may include, but is not limited to, querying a hybrid vehicle for at least one of a status indicative of combustible fuel utilization or a status indicative of electricity utilization for the vehicle. | 11-04-2010 |
20100280707 | Awarding standings to a vehicle based upon one or more fuel utilization characteristics - A method may include, but is not limited to, receiving at least one of a status indicative of combustible fuel utilization or a status indicative of electricity utilization for a hybrid vehicle and forwarding to an off-site entity the at least one of the status indicative of combustible fuel utilization or the status indicative of electricity utilization for the vehicle. | 11-04-2010 |
20100280708 | Awarding standings to a vehicle based upon one or more fuel utilization characteristics - A method may include, but is not limited to, transmitting to an off-site entity at least one of a status indicative of combustible fuel utilization or a status indicative of electricity utilization from a hybrid vehicle. | 11-04-2010 |
20100280709 | Awarding standings to a vehicle based upon one or more fuel utilization characteristics - A method may include, but is not limited to, receiving a status indicative of combustible fuel utilization in comparison to electricity utilization for a vehicle and forwarding to an off-site entity the status indicative of combustible fuel utilization in comparison to electricity utilization for the vehicle. | 11-04-2010 |
20100286864 | VEHICLE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM - The present invention provides a vehicle communication system by which even when the number of other vehicles around a traffic line is increased, it is possible to prevent occurrence of a situation that there are located vehicles the number of which is larger than the capacity of a communicable network, and it is possible to secure communications with the other vehicles. Even when it is determined that a host vehicle enters in a traffic line and a plurality of other vehicles the number of which is larger than a threshold value are located in front and rear virtual regions of the host vehicle, a transmission power is reduced to the extent that communications between the host vehicle and one of the other vehicles that is located furthest in the virtual regions can be secured. | 11-11-2010 |
20100292890 | Vehicle Rules Engine - A system and method for generating custom rules to detect desired conditions of a vehicle and customize the information returned when the desired conditions are met. The system includes an authoring device having an authoring tool to author the custom vehicle retrieval rules. The authoring device communicates with the vehicle rules engine in the vehicle or optionally communicates with a client device that then communicates with the vehicle rules engine. | 11-18-2010 |
20100305806 | Portable Multi-Modal Emergency Situation Anomaly Detection and Response System - A portable multi-modal physics and environmental based signature information collection, analysis, and alerting apparatus, device, and method capable of operating independently of vehicle diagnostic or alerting systems. Device uses algorithms and models to calculate, determine, and detect signature anomalies from accelerometer and other imbedded sensors for anomaly response to individual situations within the Automotive Global Information Grid. Wireless infrastructure provisioning of uniquely identified publisher and subscriber Automotive Network Centric Enterprise Services host subscriber and device holder as a persistent publisher presenting signature information on operational and environmental status and conditions. Onboard signature collection and anomaly detection devices support ISO MME, manufacture defined data formats, standard crash analysis algorithms based on ISO, SAE, FMVSS, CMVSS, EuoNCAP, and others. Communications infrastructure is multi-modal providing auto alert capabilities. Machine to machine interface employs W3C standard telematics, and event mark-up language, and the wireless communications utilizing cell phone, satellite, and other communications platforms. | 12-02-2010 |
20100305807 | COMMUNICATION SYSTEM WITH PERSONAL INFORMATION MANAGEMENT AND REMOTE VEHICLE MONITORING AND CONTROL FEATURES - A vehicle communication system includes a control unit in a vehicle, a vehicle data bus operable to transmit vehicle data to the control unit, and a mobile communication device having data network access. The mobile device has a self-contained mode in which the mobile communication device processes and displays the network data received via the data network and in which the control unit transmits the vehicle data to the mobile communication device. The mobile communication device also has an immersive mode in which the control unit processes the network data received via the data network and in which the control unit converts the vehicle data to audible speech and plays the audible speech in the vehicle. | 12-02-2010 |
20100305808 | Method and System for Transmitting Data - A method and system for transmitting data via a transmission pathway between a tachograph, which is disposed in a vehicle, and a data processing facility, which is at a distance from the vehicle. Data is transmitted wirelessly via at least a partial section of the transmission pathway and the tachograph is connected to a GSM module and/or a module for wireless data transmission The method includes producing a connection for wireless transmission between the GSM module and/or the module for wireless data transmission and the data processing facility, instructing the tachograph by the data processing facility to receive specific data; authentically the data processing facility and/or the tachograph transmitting specific data to the tachograph. | 12-02-2010 |
20100305809 | DEVICE FOR RECEIVING SIGNALS FROM SENSORS ASSOCIATED WITH VEHICLES COMPONENTS, PARTICULARLY TIRES, AND SYSTEM COMPRISING THE SAME - A device includes: a wireless receiver unit adapted to receive signals from at least one sensor mounted on a vehicle, wherein the signals received from the at least one sensor carry data related to operating parameters of at least one vehicle's component, detected by the at least one sensor; an interface adapted to the coupling of the device to a peripherals connection port of a vehicle's data processing system integrated in the vehicle, the peripherals connection port being accessible to users within the vehicle's cabin for the connection of peripheral type electronic devices. The device, when coupled to the peripherals connection port of the vehicle's data processing system, is operable to transfer thereto the data related to vehicle's operating parameters detected by the at least one sensor and to enable the vehicle's data processing system to process the transferred data for the interpretation of the operating parameters. | 12-02-2010 |
20100312431 | ALCOHOL IMMOBILIZER HAVING AN EMERGENCY DRIVE OPTION - A device for preventing the start-up or initial operation of a vehicle, in particular of a motor vehicle, by a vehicle driver who is under the influence of alcohol, as well as a vehicle equipped with such a device. The device includes a device for determining the alcohol content in the breath, blood, tissue, sweat of the skin, or in the interstitial tissue fluid of the vehicle driver, as well as an immobilizer which prevents the start-up or the initial operation of the vehicle when the alcohol content in the vehicle driver's breath, blood, tissue, sweat of the skin, or interstitial tissue fluid, that is ascertained by the device, exceeds a specified threshold value. Means are provided for bypassing or disabling the immobilizer. | 12-09-2010 |
20100312432 | ON-VEHICLE COMMUNICATION DEVICE - The present invention provides an on-vehicle communication device capable of suppressing a delay in providing information, avoiding congestion, and sufficiently securing transmission power. An on-vehicle communication device ( | 12-09-2010 |
20100318258 | DRIVING RECORDER - This invention intends to provide a vehicle-mounted driving recorder that can facilitate an after-the-fact analysis on not only situation data at a time of an accident but also situation data at a time of a hiyari-hatto and that can contribute accident prevention. The vehicle-mounted driving recorder comprises a data receiving section that receives situation data indicating behavior, a surrounding situation, and an operating situation of a vehicle and a data administration section that classifies the situation data into one of predetermined multiple categories based on contents of the received situation data and stores the classified situation data in a situation data storage section specified in a predetermined area of a memory. | 12-16-2010 |
20100318259 | VEHICLE COMMUNICATIONS INTERFACE AND METHOD OF OPERATION THEREOF - A vehicle communication interface (VCI) that allows for a single communications protocol to be used between a software application and a plurality of software drivers that are connected to physical interfaces of the VCI. Also, a method of communicating with a vehicle using a host system such as a personal computer. The method also makes use of a single communications protocol between a software application that processes information received from a vehicle and a plurality of software drivers. | 12-16-2010 |
20100324775 | Vehicle interaction communication system - The information available to a driver of a vehicle is greatly expanded using wireless communications (e.g., using Bluetooth wireless communication devices). In one embodiment, information regarding an adjacent vehicle such as a brake light, a turn light, speed, distance, direction, etc., is transmitted from one vehicle to a nearby or adjacent other vehicle. The received information is used in any appropriate manner, such as causing the receiving vehicle to change vehicle speed or brake, to turn to avoid a collision, etc. In a second embodiment, roadside wireless transceivers collect information regarding passing vehicles, and central database is compiled relating to a traffic conditions. The traffic condition information can be passed back to the passing vehicles for appropriate use, e.g., causing the driver to slow down, or even causing a navigation device in the receiving vehicle to manually prompt for or automatically recalculate a best route to an intended destination. In yet another embodiment, broadcast transmitters can be established at signs and other significant locations transmitting information to passing vehicles. The broadcast information may be as simple as indicating the existence of the sign, or depending upon the range of the particular wireless transmitter, the existence of a particular sign, bump in road, curve, etc., can be forewarned far in advance of when the driver will actually see the relevant object. Alternatively, the broadcast information may be quite detailed, e.g., containing a detailed itemization and directions to a large number of gas stations, restaurants, etc., reachable from a particular exit from a highway. | 12-23-2010 |
20100324776 | Device for Measuring the Movement of a Self-Guided Vehicle - The invention relates to a device for measuring the movement of a self-guided vehicle, that comprises onboard thereof: at least one accelerometer provided with a measurement axis arranged in the longitudinal direction of a potential main rectilinear movement of the vehicle, a first tachometer provided on an axle upstream from the vehicle in the longitudinal direction, a second tachometer provided on a second axle downstream from the vehicle in the longitudinal direction, wherein measure signals from the accelerometer and from the first and second tachometers are supplied to a computing unit. Accordingly, it is advantageously possible to determine the speed and the position of the vehicle on a vehicle route while taking into account an adhesion loss of at least one of the axles as well as an exact slope and turn effect on a vehicle route that does not remain rectilinear and changes horizontally and/or vertically. | 12-23-2010 |
20100324777 | ABNORMALITY DETECTION DEVICE, ABNORMALITY INFORMATION TRANSMISSION METHOD, AND ABNORMALITY INFORMATION TRANSMISSION SYSTEM - An abnormality detection device is disclosed that includes a storage unit configured to, when abnormality of an in-vehicle device is detected, store abnormality information of the abnormality; a transmission unit configured to transmit the abnormality information to a server; an in-vehicle information terminal configured to, when driving support information is provided to an occupant and read-out operation information is input through an operation section, read out the abnormality information stored in the storage unit; and a transmission prevention unit configured to, when the read-out operation information is input through the operation section, prevent transmission of the abnormality information to the server. | 12-23-2010 |
20100332074 | ENHANCED ELECTRONIC ASSEMBLY - Remote sensor units for a vehicle are described. A remote sensor unit may comprise an electronic assembly. The electronic assembly may comprise an electronic component. The electronic assembly may comprise one or more signal terminals coupled to the electronic component. The electronic assembly may comprise a protective enclosure arranged to encapsulate the electronic component. The protective enclosure is arranged to isolate the electronic component from thermal energy, pressure or residual material stress associated with one or more satellite housings. Other embodiments are described and claimed. | 12-30-2010 |
20110004369 | Method and System for Generating Electronic Documentation for Maintenance - A method for generating electronic documentation (DOC) for the maintenance of a set of equipment (EQPT), in particular of an aircraft, is provided. The method is beneficial in allowing the automatic generation of electronic documentation (DOC) updated dynamically in tandem with the progress in a maintenance operation on the set of equipment (EQPT). Utilization of particular schemes for constructing dynamic models (ABS) associated with sets of equipment (EQPT) is advantageously accomplished. | 01-06-2011 |
20110010042 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MONITORING SPEED OF A VEHICLE - A method and system for monitoring speed of a vehicle moving along a road that includes risk zones. The method determines: road conditions for each risk zone; a threshold speed of each risk zone based on the road conditions and on a distance to a posted speed limit within a high risk zone; a geographical position of the vehicle, a current risk zone in which the vehicle is moving based on the stored geographical position of the vehicle; and a current speed of the vehicle moving in the current risk zone which exceeds the threshold speed of a particular risk zone, resulting in performing a subsequent action (triggering an alarm within the vehicle, presenting a message to a driver in the vehicle, and/or automatically regulating the speed of the vehicle). The action is specific to the particular risk zone and dependent on the road conditions. | 01-13-2011 |
20110010043 | VEHICLE COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLE POWER MANAGEMENT - A system and methods that enables enhanced vehicle communications for electric vehicle power management. In an embodiment, a system provides for communications in a power flow management system utilizing existing hardware including a smart charging module. In another embodiment, a communications module provides communication services to vehicle subsystems including a central processing unit in a vehicle and a CAN-bus transceiver. In yet another embodiment, an interface enables the installation of a charge controller for a control extensibility system including a physical interface to a vehicle's CAN-bus comprising an electrical contact plug. In an embodiment, an interface enables an electric vehicle to communicate with an electric power supply device without specific hardware by modulating the power transfer between the electrical load and an electric power supply. In another embodiment, a system provides for arbitrating a smart chargepoint includes a first smart charging module implemented on equipment located inside a vehicle. | 01-13-2011 |
20110010044 | System and Method for Reporting a Status of an Asset - A system and method for reporting a status of an asset is described. In one embodiment, an asset status is determined based on configurable parameters to thereby enable accurate reporting of departures and arrivals of an asset. | 01-13-2011 |
20110015821 | ELECTRIC VEHICLE RECHARGING STATION - A parking meter includes an access control device to uniquely identify a vehicle based on wireless communication with the vehicle; and a plurality of power connections to distribute electricity to charge in parallel a plurality of battery sets in the vehicle. The battery sets may form an exterior body of the vehicle. | 01-20-2011 |
20110015822 | Vehicle Diagnostic Device - An apparatus and method is provided that allows a user to record events in a vehicle via a vehicle data recorder in the latest communication protocols, such as Controller Area Network. The vehicle data recorder can record data from the event when a trigger button is actuated by the user and the CAN communication can be controlled by the CAN controller. After the data is recorded, it can transferred to a host workstation, where the user can analyze the data from the event and diagnose the problem causing the event. | 01-20-2011 |
20110015823 | DIAGNOSTIC TOOL WITH ADVANCED DIAGNOSTIC CAPABILITIES - A diagnostic tool for a vehicle, includes a signal translator communicating with the vehicle in at least one protocol, an input unit for inputting information, a processor controlling a software according to the input information and communication with the vehicle, the processor controlling a recording of diagnostic data of the vehicle through the signal translator, a memory storing a software including a database controlled by the processor, the memory storing baseline data of the vehicle and recorded diagnostic data in the database, the processor comparing the stored baseline data and recorded diagnostic data, and a display unit displaying information according to the comparison between the stored baseline data and recorded diagnostic data. The comparison can also be made on a separate computer storing the baseline data and receiving the recorded data from the diagnostic tool. | 01-20-2011 |
20110022262 | MOTOR VEHICLE ENERGY-SAVING ASSISTANCE SYSTEM - A motor vehicle energy-saving assistance system which helps to save energy and optimize emissions. An electronic device may be permanently installed in the vehicle, or a portable computer containing an energy-saving program may be used. The device or program exchanges data with several vehicle control devices. The vehicle control devices carry out specific driver-assist or vehicle functions and the further data channel provides a connection between the device or the portable computer and the vehicle control device(s). At least one unidirectional wireless, inductive or capacitive data transmission is enabled. A driver display device is controlled by the energy-saving program and the energy-saving program determines the actual condition of the vehicle and the estimated future condition in order to calculate the energy-saving measure(s). A motor vehicle equipped with an interface which provides access to the vehicle onboard bus system is also described. | 01-27-2011 |
20110029188 | Remote processing of selected vehicle operating parameters - Exemplary methods, systems and components enable selective control of an operational mode for a vehicle that is subject to an administrative standard. In some instances a qualified person or entity may attain a possible consequential result related to a user-selected vehicle operation mode that may involve a vehicle operation paradigm and/or a vehicle travel route and/or a vehicle travel destination. In some embodiments, implementation of the selected vehicle operation mode may modify a conformity status of the vehicle relative to the administrative standard. Various accessible records may be maintained regarding administrative compliance states and their respective benefits, as well as regarding certification of preferable consequential results available to qualified recipients based on a correlated vehicle operational mode. | 02-03-2011 |
20110029189 | Promotional correlation with selective vehicle modes - Exemplary methods, systems and components enable selective control of an operational mode for a vehicle that is subject to an administrative standard. In some instances a qualified person or entity may attain a possible consequential result related to a user-selected vehicle operation mode that may involve a vehicle operation paradigm and/or a vehicle travel route and/or a vehicle travel destination. In some embodiments, implementation of the selected vehicle operation mode may modify a conformity status of the vehicle relative to the administrative standard. Various accessible records may be maintained regarding administrative compliance states and their respective benefits, as well as regarding certification of preferable consequential results available to qualified recipients based on a correlated vehicle operational mode. | 02-03-2011 |
20110029190 | Remote processing of selected vehicle operating parameters - Exemplary methods, systems and components enable selective control of an operational mode for a vehicle that is subject to an administrative standard. In some instances a qualified person or entity may attain a possible consequential result related to a user-selected vehicle operation mode that may involve a vehicle operation paradigm and/or a vehicle travel route and/or a vehicle travel destination. In some embodiments, implementation of the selected vehicle operation mode may modify a conformity status of the vehicle relative to the administrative standard. Various accessible records may be maintained regarding administrative compliance states and their respective benefits, as well as regarding certification of preferable consequential results available to qualified recipients based on a correlated vehicle operational mode. | 02-03-2011 |
20110035094 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AUTOMATIC FAULT DETECTION OF A MACHINE - A system and method for automatic fault detection of a machine is described. In one embodiment, a semantic structure is constructed using the words and values associated with the parameter identification numbers used by the on-board diagnostic system in a vehicle. The semantic structure is enhanced, analyzed, and reduced to determine the number and arrangement of the clusters that should be independently analyzed in order to produce the most reliable results in a computationally efficient manner. Each cluster is then used to detect outliers that are used to detect vehicle malfunctions. | 02-10-2011 |
20110035095 | Vehicular Diagnostic Tool with Detachable Memory and Method of Operation Thereof - A vehicle diagnostic tool configured to interface with a removable memory device. The removable memory device is configured to store information about the vehicle such as, for example, the maintenance history of the vehicle and notes or special instructions from one or more mechanics having performed the maintenance. The memory device, once disengaged from the diagnostic tool, is given to the vehicle's owner for safekeeping and may be incorporated in a key, fob or other device that the owner would often have available when operating the vehicle. Also, a method of collecting and storing vehicle data is also provided. | 02-10-2011 |
20110040442 | Integrated net-centric diagnostics dataflow for avionics systems - A net-centric avionics diagnostics and automated maintenance environment system includes a storage medium on which is stored diagnostic data concerning the operation of systems of an aircraft and diagnostic data of aircraft systems, including BIT data, an organizational level automated maintenance environment server to transport maintenance and diagnostic information throughout the automated maintenance environment. The system also includes an organizational level diagnostics avionics tester that has a processor to execute diagnostics software for gathering, storing, and processing avionics diagnostics information. The tester is linked to an interface device that includes data acquisition hardware, standard interfaces for an avionics unit under test, and instrumentation for troubleshooting the unit under test. The organizational level diagnostics avionics tester is in network communication with the organizational level automated maintenance environment server. The system also includes a common intermediate level tester for testing a plurality of avionics modular assemblies, and an intermediate level maintenance environment server that stores historical maintenance data for use by the common intermediate level tester and by the organizational level diagnostics avionics tester. | 02-17-2011 |
20110040443 | Method and Apparatus For Rapid Wheel Toe Angle Measurement and Adjustment - A method for conducting a basic front-end wheel alignment measurement and adjustment procedure together with a routine vehicle maintenance procedure of a vehicle service shop. Vehicle front wheel turn plate assemblies, and optionally, vehicle rolling mechanisms, are incorporated into a support structure in a service area within the vehicle service shop at which the vehicle will undergo the maintenance procedures. When the vehicle is moved into the service area to undergo the maintenance procedures, basic measurements associated with the front-end wheel alignment are acquired by an associated service system, which prompts vehicle technicians to carry out a sequence of basic procedures to facilitate the acquisition of the basic measurements. Based on the results of the measurements, the service system provides the vehicle technicians with graphical guidance for performing any required adjustment to the vehicle front end wheel alignment, which may be carried out concurrent with other maintenance procedures. | 02-17-2011 |
20110046842 | SATELLITE ENABLED VEHICLE PROGNOSTIC AND DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM - In one embodiment, a vehicle prognostic and diagnostic system comprises: a vehicle maintenance computer (VMC) for prognosis and diagnosis of faults; a vehicle operations network (VON) providing a communications link between the VMC and vehicle related processors; sensors communicatively coupled to the VON providing sensor data relating to operations of vehicle sub-systems; a vehicle maintenance database communicatively coupled to the VMC providing vehicle maintenance information to the VMC; a transceiver coupled to the VMC, the transceiver selecting at least one data link from a plurality of data links for communication with a ground station. The VMC detects when a fault occurs or is likely to occur based on sensor data and the vehicle maintenance data. The VMC queries the database for mitigating action when it detects a fault occurs or is likely to occur. The transceiver uploads a message to the ground station when the database cannot provide mitigating action. | 02-24-2011 |
20110046843 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS OF VEHICULAR PATH PREDICTION FOR COOPERATIVE DRIVING APPLICATIONS THROUGH DIGITAL MAP AND DYNAMIC VEHICLE MODEL FUSION - Method and system of vehicular path prediction for a vehicle travelling on a road. A yaw rate of the vehicle is estimated over a prediction time period based on vehicle sensor information and map information for the road. Then, a further path of the vehicle on the road is predicted for the prediction time period based on a speed and a direction of the vehicle, and the estimated yaw rate. Map information includes a geometry for a portion of the road on which the vehicle is travelling, and the vehicle sensor information includes yaw rate information from a yaw rate sensor on the vehicle, and location information of the vehicle relative to the map information from a positioning device on the vehicle. A vehicle provided for path prediction includes a communication system for transmitting the predicted path to other vehicles for collision avoidance. | 02-24-2011 |
20110046844 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CHANGING THE STATE OF VEHICLE COMPONENTS - An electronic/electric vehicle infrastructure system is provided for controlling the electronic/electric functions and/or functionalities of a vehicle as well as a method for controlling such a system, wherein the electronic/electric vehicle infrastructure system includes at least two electronic/electric vehicle infrastructure subsets each including a plurality of electronic/electric vehicle infrastructure elements, wherein an electronic/electric infrastructure element is an electronic control unit (ECU), a network segment and/or a load, and at least one electronic/electric vehicle infrastructure element is transferable in an active or inactive state, and wherein the electronic/electric functions and/or functionalities are defined by predetermined vehicle modes and/or predetermined applications needing predetermined ECUs and/or loads, wherein each ECU includes a state change component for transferring the ECU, at least one connected load and/or at least one network segment attached to the ECU into an active or inactive state, wherein each state change component is adapted to receive, transfer and/or execute a state transfer request initiated by a change of the current predetermined vehicle mode and/or by application needs. | 02-24-2011 |
20110046845 | Apparatus, method & system for enforcing vehicle operator policy compliance - Apparatus, method, and system enforce compliance with Transportation Safety Policies (TSP) governing vehicle fleets, subways, trains, busses, airplanes, etc. | 02-24-2011 |
20110054731 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR BI-DIRECTIONAL WIRELESS INFORMATION TRANSFER - A system and method a bi-directional wireless information system includes a plurality of sensor nodes spaced along a path of travel of an object, each of the sensor nodes corresponding to a specified location along the path of travel. The system also includes a transceiver associated with the object, the transceiver configured to communicate with the plurality of sensor nodes, such that a location of the object is determinable based on wireless communication between the transceiver and the plurality of sensor nodes. A central database included in the system is configured to receive the location of the object from at least one of the transceiver and the plurality of sensor nodes, receive object-specific data from at least one of the transceiver and the plurality of sensor nodes, and transmit location-specific data to the transceiver. | 03-03-2011 |
20110054732 | Diagnostic Device Wireless Interface via Diagnostic Cable Adapter - A wireless interface is provided and coupled to a diagnostic device in order to provide it with wireless communication. The wireless interface includes a diagnostic device interface, a diagnostic cable interface and a wireless adapter. The wireless interface can relay diagnostic information from a vehicle to the diagnostic device when the wireless interface is coupled to a diagnostic cable, which is connected to a vehicle. | 03-03-2011 |
20110060495 | Method of predicting energy consumption, apparatus for predicting energy consumption, and terminal apparatus - An object of the invention is to predict energy consumptions of a vehicle, using geographic characteristic values which are independent from particular driving patterns and vehicle parameters and unique to respective links. A navigation server predicts energies which are consumed when a vehicle runs on links. The navigation server calculates geographic characteristic values of respective links, the geography of the each link affecting the consumption energy with the geographic characteristic values, the calculation being based on energy consumptions collected from probe vehicles, and calculates predicted energy consumption of each link selected as a processing target, based on the geographic characteristic values. A navigation terminal obtains these predicted energy consumptions and performs route search with the obtained predicted energy consumptions as costs. | 03-10-2011 |
20110060496 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR COMPLEX EVENT PROCESSING OF VEHICLE INFORMATION AND IMAGE INFORMATION RELATING TO A VEHICLE - A vehicle-based complex event processing (CEP) engine executes on a hardware computer processor in a vehicle. The CEP engine receives a first input stream onto which vehicle information related to the vehicle is published, and applies at least one query to the first input stream. The CEP engine then assesses, based on application of the query/queries, if a vehicle-related event has occurred and, if so, the CEP engine publishes an indication of occurrence of the vehicle-related event on at least one output stream of the CEP engine. In one example, the CEP engine may receive a second input stream onto which image information is published, wherein the image information is based at least in part on data provided by at least one on-board vehicle camera. | 03-10-2011 |
20110066317 | VIDEO RECORDING DEVICE FOR VEHICLE AND DRIVING INFORMATION PROVIDING METHOD THEREOF - A vehicle video recording device and a driving information providing method are provided. The vehicle video recording device includes: a sensing unit that includes one or more of a positioning unit, an inertia sensor unit, and an environment sensor unit so as to output sensed information; a vehicle information collecting unit that collects vehicle information from one or more of one or more sensors and a self-diagnosis device disposed in a vehicle; and a driving information generating unit that generates driving information depending on use or nonuse of the vehicle on the basis of one or more of the sensed information and the vehicle information. Accordingly, it is possible to continuously manage information on a driving time of a vehicle or the accident possibility in driving a vehicle, thereby giving an advantage or a disadvantage to a driver. | 03-17-2011 |
20110066318 | WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS METHOD - A multiprocessor system used in a car, home, or office environment includes multiple processors that run different real-time applications. A dynamic configuration system runs on the multiple processors and includes a device manager, configuration manager, and data manager. The device manager automatically detects and adds new devices to the multiprocessor system, and the configuration manager automatically reconfigures which processors run the real-time applications. The data manager identifies the type of data generated by the new devices and identifies which devices in the multiprocessor system are able to process the data. | 03-17-2011 |
20110071724 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR DATA COLLECTION AND MESSAGING - A system for diagnosing vehicle problems that may include a client device and central device. The client device may include a connector to connect to a vehicle and a vehicle interface to send and receive information from the vehicle. The client may also include an input/output system, a processor, and a communication system to communicate with the central device. The client device may capture a vehicle identification number (VIN) and may transmit the captured VIN along with geographic information to the central device. In response to received instructions from the central device, the client device may passively capture diagnostic information from the vehicle and transmit the diagnostic information to the central device. In response to the diagnostic information, the central device may transmit further instructions to the client device. | 03-24-2011 |
20110071725 | REMOTELY INTERACTING WITH A VEHICLE TO PERFORM SERVICING AND ENGINEERING FUNCTIONS FROM A NOMADIC DEVICE OR COMPUTER - A method for remotely performing vehicle service functions may include receiving at a computer a request signal including at least one instruction for diagnosing a vehicle component. The method may also include retrieving one or more threshold parameters stored for determining a diagnosis of the vehicle component. A diagnostic signal together with the threshold parameters and the diagnostic instruction may be transmitted to a vehicle receiver. The determination as to whether the threshold parameters have been met is made at a vehicle. If the one or more threshold parameters are met, a return signal including diagnostic status identifiers identifying a diagnostic status of the vehicle component may be received. A message including at least one diagnostic status of the vehicle component based on the one or more diagnostic status identifiers may generated and displayed on a graphical display for vehicle diagnosis and service. | 03-24-2011 |
20110077816 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ODOMETER MONITORING - Systems and methods for odometer monitoring are disclosed herein. One example method includes storing an odometer value and a vehicle position in response to an initial triggering event, and determining a second odometer value and a second vehicle position in response to a subsequent triggering event. The odometer value is compared with the second odometer value to detect any odometer value change from the initial triggering event to the subsequent triggering event. The vehicle position is compared with the second vehicle position to detect any vehicle position change from the initial triggering event to the subsequent triggering event. From the comparisons, it is determined whether odometer tampering has occurred. | 03-31-2011 |
20110082621 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PREDICTING BATTERY LIFE BASED ON VEHICLE BATTERY, USAGE, AND ENVIRONMENTAL DATA - A telematics device or a mobile wireless device, or a computer server remote from a vehicle, receives data related to the vehicle battery's open circuit and cranking voltages, temperature, and usage. The device compares the received data to predetermined corresponding criteria and also computes a battery health value based on the received data according to an algorithm. If the received data falls outside the corresponding criteria, the device can generate and send an alert to a user device. The battery health value can be sent to the user device to indicate remaining battery life, and to correlate temperature and vehicle usage with impact on battery life. The received data can also be used to generate a customized charging current profile that a charging device can use to regulate charging current from the vehicle's alternator to the battery. The vehicle can use an internal combustion engine, or be all-electric. | 04-07-2011 |
20110093160 | VEHICLE CHECK IN METHOD - A method for managing vehicle check in at an automotive service center in which vehicle identification data is downloaded together with odometer data and diagnostic codes, if any, to a handheld device connected to the diagnostic port on the vehicle. The device then wirelessly transmits the data from the device to a programmed computer at the service center. Warranty/maintenance information is then obtained either from a database stored at the service center or from a remote computer. The remote computer then determines the recommended service for the vehicle and prints a work order containing that recommended service. | 04-21-2011 |
20110093161 | INTEGRATED SYSTEMS AND METHOD FOR PREVENTING MOBILE COMPUTING DEVICE USE WHILE DRIVING - A system and method for controlling use of a mobile computing device in a vehicle are disclosed. The method comprises monitoring a vehicle-key system comprising a vehicle and a vehicle key having a particular code to determine when the vehicle has been activated using the vehicle key. An operational state of the vehicle is identified based on information received from an OBD port in the vehicle. The operational state of the vehicle is communicated to the mobile computing device. Use of selected device features on the mobile computing device are controlled based on the particular code of the vehicle key when the operational state of the vehicle indicates that the vehicle is outside of selected parameters. | 04-21-2011 |
20110093162 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR COMPLEX EVENT PROCESSING OF VEHICLE-RELATED INFORMATION - A vehicle-based complex event processing (CEP) engine executes on at least one hardware computer processor in a first vehicle. The CEP engine receives a first input stream onto which vehicle information related to the first vehicle is published, and applies one or more queries to the first input stream to assess if a vehicle-related event has occurred. If it is determined that the vehicle-related event has occurred, the CEP engine publishes an indication of occurrence of the vehicle-related event on an output stream of the vehicle-based CEP engine, and transmits the indication of occurrence of the vehicle-related event from the first vehicle. | 04-21-2011 |
20110098877 | TRANSMISSION OF VEHICLE-RELEVENT DATA OF A VEHICLE VIA MOBILE COMMUNICATION - A device, method, computer program and computer readable medium allowing for vehicle to vehicle and vehicle to infrastructure communication. An ignition key radio technology may used in addition to WLAN-based communication in a vehicle in order to communicate with other vehicles or infrastructure. The ignition key radio technology is used to send only selected data which have been altered significantly. The remaining data are not sent or kept for the WLAN communication. | 04-28-2011 |
20110098878 | MOTOR VEHICLE IGNITION KEY, MOTOR VEHICLE NAVIGATION DEVICE, MOTOR VEHICLE SYSTEM, AND METHODS - What is described is a motor vehicle ignition key and a method including a movement sensor for detecting the movement of the motor vehicle ignition key, a motor vehicle navigation device, and a method including a calculator for calculating a driving route in dependence of movement data, and a motor vehicle system and a method including a motor vehicle ignition key and a motor vehicle controller. | 04-28-2011 |
20110098879 | HARDWARE RECONFIGURABLE VEHICLE ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC INTERFACE AND TELEMATIC SYSTEM - A telematic system interfaces with a vehicle diagnostic interface to provide access to vehicle health and performance related information. The telematic system includes a primary gateway connector and various subsystem modules that connect to the primary gateway connector to provide functions in addition to those provided by the primary gateway connector. | 04-28-2011 |
20110098880 | REDUCED TRANSMISSION OF VEHICLE OPERATING DATA - An in vehicle appliance gathers data from various sensors mounted within the vehicle, stores that data and generates summaries of that data for transmission through a wireless network. The data summaries reduce the length of the transmission over a wireless network while providing sufficient data to characterize vehicle operations without excessive transmission length, cost and use of available bandwidth. | 04-28-2011 |
20110106370 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DRIVER STYLE MONITORING AND ANALYSING - The invention discloses a method and a system for determining insurance costs for a driver of a vehicle ( | 05-05-2011 |
20110106371 | TOOL INTERFACE CONNECTOR WIRELESS ADAPTER COMPACT DESIGN - A vehicular diagnostic tool interface device that may be connected to a vehicular diagnostic tool, typically through an available port thereof, that enhances the functionality of the overall tool. The interface device is configured in such a manner as to provide physical protection to more sensitive components such as, for example, wireless transceivers. The interface device is also configured to minimize the distance that it protrudes from the diagnostic tool. Also, a method of operating such a vehicular diagnostic tool. | 05-05-2011 |
20110106372 | Mobile Advertising and Compensation-Verification System - A mobile advertising and compensation-verification system comprising a flexible adhesive display with embedded self-contained power source and global positioning system (GPS) device to allow for tracking from a single source that calculates and disburses payment. The display is tamper-proof via perforations or other means so that its attempted relocation or removal following installation will result in disconnection of the GPS device from its power source, thus preventing fraudulent compensation. The peelable adhesive backing allows for easy installation, and its interior reveals a printed code that is sent electronically via cell phone or other electronic means along with a digital image of the installation to the single source to commence and track compensation. | 05-05-2011 |
20110106373 | SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR VIRTUAL IGNITION DETECTION - Systems and methods for determining vehicle ignition state using a device added to the vehicle after the manufacture of the vehicle without a direct connection to the vehicle ignition line are disclosed. In a number of embodiments, a system includes a processor, a motion detector configured to detect vehicle motion and to enable the processor to obtain motion data, a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver configured to determine location and to enable the processor to obtain at least speed data, and a radio transceiver configured to communicate with the processor. Additionally, the processor is configured to estimate the ignition state of a vehicle using at least the motion data and the speed data. | 05-05-2011 |
20110106374 | REMOTE VEHICLE PROGRAMMING SYSTEM AND METHOD - A system and method for remotely programming a vehicle including a vehicle connector with a plurality of pins in communication with one or more vehicle sub-systems or modules, a vehicle communication device connected to the vehicle connector; a bi-directional communication link between the vehicle communication device and a remote communication device, and a computer system connected to the remote communication device. The vehicle communication device is configured to receive signals from the pins, convert the signals to a network compatible data packet which can then be transmitted to the remote communication device, which re-coverts the signals to the pin signals, which can be read by a computing system, such as a vehicle scan tool. Programming instructions can be sent from the scan tool to the vehicle, over the bi-directional communication link between the remote communication device and the vehicle communication device. | 05-05-2011 |
20110106375 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROVIDING AN INTEGRATED PLATFORM FOR ENTERTAINMENT, INFORMATION, COMMUNICATION, CONTROL AND COMPUTING APPLICATIONS IN VEHICLES - Various embodiments include a method and system for providing an integrated platform for entertainment, information, communication, control and computing applications in a vehicle. The system includes an in-vehicle computer residing in user's vehicle. The in-vehicle computer is used for user's entertainment and transfer of information between user's vehicle and other application servers such as original equipment manufacturers of the vehicle, online stores, toll booths, gas stations, etc. Information transfer and communication can also take place between the user's vehicles and other peer vehicles in its vicinity. The in-vehicle computer can further control vehicles' behavior by utilizing its computing applications and interacting with vehicle's engine, engine controlling unit, air conditioning regulator, speedometer, fuel meter, gyrometer etc. so as to personalize the vehicle according to its user's needs and requirements. The in-vehicle computer also provides a platform to application developers for developing various applications such as games, user identification, GPS, traffic alerts, finger print scanning, voice conferencing social networking, blogging and the likes for the vehicles. | 05-05-2011 |
20110112717 | Methods and Apparatus for Automatic Internet Logging and Social Comparison of Vehicular Driving Behavior - In exemplary implementations of this invention, data regarding the position and operation of a vehicle is gathered by a GPS unit and an On Board Diagnostic (“OBD”) port, respectively. This data is wirelessly transmitted by a wireless transceiver located in the vehicle. The transmitted data from multiple vehicles is received by a remote processor. The data is processed and selectively shared with users of a public web interface, in accordance with user preferences. A user selects the type of data that may be shared and the specified persons, classes of persons or public with whom particular data or types of data may be shared. In some cases, data gathered by the OBD ports and GPS units is transmitted to a host server of a social network, and selectively shared over the social network in accordance with that network's policies. | 05-12-2011 |
20110118932 | FAULT DIAGNOSIS AND PROGNOSIS USING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE MARKOV CHAINS - A system and method for fault diagnosis includes receiving information defining a relationship between failure modes and diagnostic trouble codes and extracting diagnostic trouble code data, including set times, frequency data and diagnostic trouble code sequence information for a plurality of diagnostic trouble codes relating to a plurality of failure modes. The system and method further include constructing a Markov chain using the diagnostic trouble code data for each of the plurality of failure modes, training the Markov chain to learn a set of state parameters using the diagnostic trouble code data, and computing a likelihood of a diagnostic trouble code sequence for each of the plurality of failure modes using the trained Markov chains. | 05-19-2011 |
20110118933 | VEHICLE DIAGNOSING APPARATUS - After a request for first data is received from a first diagnostic unit, when a request for second data is received from a second diagnostic unit, if the first data and the second data of the same type, then a communication unit requests the electronic control unit to send the same type of data, and sends the same type of data received from the electronic control unit to the first diagnostic unit and the second diagnostic unit. If the first data and the second data are of different types, then the communication unit requests the electronic control unit to send the first data and the second data, receives the first data and the second data all together from the electronic control unit, sends the received first data to the first diagnostic unit, and sends the received second data to the second diagnostic unit. | 05-19-2011 |
20110118934 | PERIPHERAL ACCESS DEVICES AND SENSORS FOR USE WITH VEHICLE TELEMATICS DEVICES AND SYSTEMS - A telematics method and system includes, and uses, a telematics device with a controller in communication with a diagnostic system configured to receive diagnostic information from a host vehicle; a position-locating system configured to determine location information of the host vehicle; a wireless transceiver configured to transmit and receive information through a wireless network to and from at least one Internet-accessible website; and, a communication interface including at least a short range wireless interface link. The telematics device may be embodied in an access device, which may include the position-locating system. The access device may be a smartphone, or similar device, that retrieves/transmits diagnostic data/information, and other data/information to/from the vehicle via the short range wireless link. The access device performs various telematics device functions; it uses a long range wireless interface to communicate diagnostic and related information to a central host computer, and to receive related information from same. | 05-19-2011 |
20110125363 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR ADJUSTING A CHARGE RELATED TO USE OF A VEHICLE DURING A PERIOD BASED ON OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE DATA - A software method controlling a computer device compares operational performance data collected and stored from a vehicle to a predetermined criterion and determines, based on the comparison, whether to adjust a baseline charge for usage of a vehicle during the period. The software may compare data corresponding to one, or more, different parameters to determine the charge adjustment, the parameters including average MPG, engine revolutions, revolution-minutes, or fuel used during the period. The software method may use average values for MPG for the particular vehicle obtained prepared by a governmental agency. The method may also use criterion derived from governmental information. Or, the criterion may be a predetermined value based on a business consideration, such as number of engine revolutions corresponding to a given number of miles traveled. If the vehicle's engine turns more than the predetermined number during a period, the charge corresponding to use during period is increased. | 05-26-2011 |
20110125364 | METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR DIAGNOSING A MALFUNCTION OF AN AUTOMOBILE - A method for diagnosing a malfunction in an automobile that uses a diagnosis tool and an analysis of data or control instructions provided by a calculation module assembly onboard the vehicle and converting the operation of a set of functional members of the vehicle by dynamically displaying the values of the data or the links to the controls within the display of the diagnosis method. The method includes: developing an enriched display structure of the vehicle operation control; developing a list of control data to be refreshed; recovering the refreshed control data from the respective calculation modules; and developing a final display from the enriched display structure and the refreshed control data; wherein the developing an enriched display structure, the list of data to be refreshed, and the recovering the refreshed data and of developing the final display are carried under control of a supervision module. | 05-26-2011 |
20110125365 | Driver activity and vehicle operation logging and reporting - A method for logging and reporting driver activity and vehicle operation includes identifying a driver of a vehicle, recording operating data with an on-board recorder that is hard-wired to an engine control module, coupled to a mileage sensing system, and linked to a global navigation satellite system, and recording duty status of the driver. An hours of service log and a fuel tax log are created from the operating data. The method includes comparing the driver's hours of service log to an applicable requirement, indicating to the driver whether the driver is in-compliance or out-of-compliance with the applicable requirement, automatically uploading the logs to a receiver external to the vehicle using a wireless telecommunications network, and emitting a compliance signal representative of whether the driver is in-compliance or out-of-compliance with the applicable requirement to a second receiver external to the vehicle and under control of authorities. | 05-26-2011 |
20110125366 | AUTOMOTIVE SCAN TOOL WITH ENHANCED AUDIO, VIDEO AND VOICE RECOGNITION FUNCTIONALITY - A diagnostic tool for a vehicle, includes a signal translator communicating with the vehicle in at least one protocol, an input unit for inputting information, a processor controlling a software according to the input information from the input unit and communication with the vehicle from the signal translator, the processor controlling a reception of diagnostic data of the vehicle through the signal translator, an input and output unit receiving and transmitting audio and video signals controlled by the processor, a memory storing a software controlled by the processor, the memory storing audio and video information, and transferring the audio and video information through the input and output unit; and a display unit displaying information according to the received and processed audio and video signals stored in the memory. | 05-26-2011 |
20110130916 | Location Based Vehicle Data Logging and Diagnostic System and Method - A data logging unit configured for installation in a hybrid vehicle communicates with a user device configured to receive data from the data logging unit and to display selected portions of the data to a user for identification of potential vehicle faults associated with vehicle events reported by the vehicle's driver. The data logging unit has a data logger which communicates with hybrid drive system and other vehicle components to receive hybrid drive system data, and with a vehicle position sensor which detects location to receive vehicle location data. A data log processing module correlates location data with the corresponding vehicle data, and creates a correlated log of drive system data and associated vehicle location information, to allow identification of vehicle data within an event window based on vehicle location at the time of a reported event. Accordingly, a user may make a geographical request and the system will report vehicle data corresponding to the geographical request. | 06-02-2011 |
20110130917 | METHOD FOR ACQUIRING INFORMATION - A method for acquiring information from a driving operation of a vehicle, in which first information is acquired with respect to at least one operating state of the vehicle and additional second information is ascertained with respect to this at least one operating state using statistical methods, the first and second information concerning this at least one operating state being stored. A method for the assigning and diagnosis of at least one operating state of a vehicle, a control unit, a computer program and a computer-program product are also provided. | 06-02-2011 |
20110130918 | CELL-BASED VEHICLE DRIVING CONTROL METHOD AND SYSTEM - A cell-based vehicle driving control system includes a local server for obtaining road environment information on roads within a cell and target vehicle information on a target vehicle within the cell and generating local waypoints based on the road environment information and the target vehicle information; a global server for monitoring the target vehicle information, the road environment information and local server information on the local server received from the local server; and a vehicle control terminal, mounted in the target vehicle, for receiving the local waypoints from the local server and controlling the target vehicle based on the local waypoints. The road environment information is obtained by using at least one sensor installed on the roads. | 06-02-2011 |
20110137517 | METHOD FOR INDICATING A DISCREPANCY FOR DRIVING DATA IN A MOTOR VEHICLE, AND SYSTEM FOR CARRYING OUT THE METHOD - A method and system for indicating a discrepancy between driving data captured using a tachograph and at least one prescribed rule by an indicator appliance independent of the tachograph. The indicator appliance is connected to a tachograph data memory that has the driving data. By virtue of detachable electromechanical coupling of the indicator appliance to the tachograph data memory that is automatically followed by at least one driving data volume element being loaded into an appliance data memory of the indicator appliance and automatically compared with at least one rule. The presence of a discrepancy between the loaded driving data volume element and the rule prompts the presence of the discrepancy to be transmitted to a user of the indicator appliance as a violation report. | 06-09-2011 |
20110144856 | Three-Dimensional Corporeal Figure for Communication with a Passenger in a Motor Vehicle - For a three-dimensional corporal figure for communicating with a passenger in a motor vehicle, wherein the three-dimensional corporal figure may be locked in place in the motor vehicle, it is in particular provided that a communication from a passenger and a driver of the motor vehicle, respectively, to the three-dimensional corporal figure is carried out acoustically and/or haptic, and that a communication from the three-dimensional corporal figure to a driver or a passenger of the motor vehicle is carried out optically and/or acoustically. | 06-16-2011 |
20110144857 | ANTICIPATORY AND ADAPTIVE AUTOMOBILE HMI - An anticipatory and adaptive human machine interface control system for an automobile and a method for adaptively modifying an information display in an automobile are disclosed, wherein the control system and method control the information displayed in response to a vehicle information signal. The adaptive human machine interface control system for a vehicle includes a vehicle information system adapted to generate and transmit a vehicle information signal including data representing a vehicle condition and a controller adapted to receive and analyze the vehicle information signal. The controller generates and transmits a control signal for controlling a visual representation of data in response to the vehicle information signal. | 06-16-2011 |
20110144858 | VEHICLE GATEWAY, AND APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR VEHICLE NETWORK INTERFACE - Provide are a vehicle gateway, and an apparatus and a method for vehicle network interface. The vehicle gateway includes a first interface connected to each unit of a vehicle network, a second interface connected to one or more access devices acquiring vehicle information from the vehicle network, and a packet processor connecting the first interface to the second interface, and determining a communication system and a communication path to each of the access devices and a process order of the vehicle information acquisition. | 06-16-2011 |
20110153150 | Vehicle Tuner And Display Module And Docking Station - A data acquisition, data display, vehicle computer interface and programming tool in the form of a module. The module of the present invention can be set into a dock, which is connected to the vehicle's control modules. The vehicle can be reprogrammed to accept vehicle manufacture's updates and/or performance updates. Once the reprogramming is finished the module is removed from the dock and is be placed into/onto the vehicle's dashboard or other location readily viewable by the vehicle operator to report one or more of the vehicle's operating parameters. The present invention is readily connectable to a vehicle's data link for bi-directional communication with the various control modules on the vehicle. | 06-23-2011 |
20110153151 | DISTRIBUTED VEHICLE SERVICE METHOD AND SYSTEM - A method and system for conducting a vehicle service comprises the steps of receiving signals representative of vehicle parameters, accessing data and/or software necessary for performing the vehicle service from at least one remote computer over a data transmission network, and performing signal processing related to the vehicle service based on the signals representative of the vehicle parameters and the accessed data and/or software. Since the data and/or software necessary for conducting the vehicle diagnostic analysis is distributed in different systems that are connected via a data communication network, an automotive service system can minimize the size of software stored locally and can access most of the information and/or algorithm required for conducting the vehicle diagnostic analysis from a remote system. | 06-23-2011 |
20110160952 | Method for Entering Data In at Least Two Control Devices of a Motor Vehicle - A method for entering data into at least a first and a second control device of a motor vehicle is provided. Each of the first and the second control device is provided with a sequencing control that has a reversible deactivation state, a programming mode, and an operating mode with operating functions. The first and the second control device are each put into the deactivation state, during which the execution of operating functions of the operating mode is prevented, preferably at least to a large extent. The first and the second control device are each put into the programming mode, during which the reversible deactivation state of each control device is maintained. The deactivation state of all control devices will be canceled after the respective data have been entered into all control devices in the programming mode. | 06-30-2011 |
20110160953 | ERROR MESSAGE DETAILS FOR DEBUG AVAILABLE TO END USER - A diagnostic tool for diagnosing a vehicle, includes a signal translator communicating with the vehicle in at least one protocol, an input device for inputting information, a processor controlling a software according to the input information from the input device and communication with the vehicle from the signal translator, the processor controlling a reception of diagnostic data of the vehicle through the signal translator, a memory storing a software controlled by the processor, the memory storing information relating to the diagnostic tool and information relating to the configuration of the diagnostic tool and the configuration of the communication with the unit being tested, and an output unit connected to the processor indicating information according to the received and processed information relating to the diagnostic tool and information relating to the diagnosing of the vehicle. | 06-30-2011 |
20110166740 | METHOD, SYSTEM, AND APPARATUS FOR OPERATING A VEHICLE - Operating a vehicle includes receiving, by a central controller, positional data related to the vehicle and environmental data related to a current route of the vehicle. The central controller calculates a desired energy allocation based on the positional data and the environmental data, and transmits the desired energy allocation to the vehicle for use in controlling engine function. | 07-07-2011 |
20110166741 | MOBILE TELEMETRY SYSTEM - An automotive vehicle may include a processor configured to buffer records of vehicle information created at a scheduled acquisition rate, and to buffer event files of vehicle information created upon the occurrence of predetermined triggering events. The processor may be further configured to cause the buffered records to be wirelessly transmitted on a last-in first-out basis if a signal strength in a vicinity of the vehicle is greater than a first predetermined threshold, and to cause the buffered files to be wirelessly transmitted if the signal strength is greater than a second predetermined threshold. | 07-07-2011 |
20110166742 | Method and system for connecting a telematics device to a vehicle using wireless transceivers configured to transmit and receive diagnostic data - An embodiment provides a system for connecting a telematics device to a host vehicle. The system may comprise a short-range wireless transmitter and a short-range wireless receiver. The short-range wireless transmitter may be connected to an in-vehicle diagnostic system. The short-range wireless receiver may be connected to the telematics device installed in the host vehicle. The short-range wireless transmitter may be configured to wirelessly transmit diagnostic data to the short-range wireless receiver. | 07-07-2011 |
20110166743 | Vehicular information storage apparatus and vehicle diagnosis system - In cases that one of conditions registered in a record data classification table is satisfied, the accordance with a condition for recording in a nonvolatile record data database is determined. A cycle record data element according with a record content corresponding to the condition determined to be satisfied is retrieved from cycle record data elements recorded in a cycle record data database. Retrieved cycle record data element is recorded in the nonvolatile record data database as nonvolatile record data. Those conditions are satisfied, respectively, as follows: (i) in cases that a vehicular system starts; (ii) in cases that a system parameter is changed; (iii) in cases that a specified time elapses after departure; (iv) in cases that it comes to the time before arrival; (v) in cases that a subject vehicle is located in a user defect detection area; and (vi) in cases that an external remote manipulation is executed. | 07-07-2011 |
20110172874 | FAULT PREDICTION FRAMEWORK USING TEMPORAL DATA MINING - A vehicle fault diagnosis and prognosis system includes a computing platform configured to receive a classifier from a remote server, the computing platform tangibly embodying computer-executable instructions for evaluating data sequences received from a vehicle control network and applying the classifier to the data sequences, wherein the classifier is configured to determine if the data sequences define a pattern that is associated with a particular fault. | 07-14-2011 |
20110172875 | TRANSPORT SYSTEM - A mobile moving system that faculties freight movement includes movable approach ramps and a mobile base. The mobile base includes material handling devices configured to move freight longitudinally between a loading position, a transport position, and an unloading position. Parallel pocket members having a hollow-box-like shape are positioned along a portion of the plurality of the material handling devices to increase the torsional strength and rigidity of the material handling devices. The parallel pocket members are spaced apart and dimensioned so that each of the plurality of parallel pocket members may receive one or more prongs of an industrial vehicle. | 07-14-2011 |
20110178677 | MACHINE CONTROL AND GUIDANCE SYSTEM INCORPORATING A PORTABLE DIGITAL MEDIA DEVICE - A machine control and guidance system for an earthmoving machine, includes one or more sensors and a portable digital media device mounted on the earthmoving machine. The portable digital media device may comprise an iPhone, an iTouch, or other similar device. Each of the sensors senses the position or orientation of a portion of the earthmoving machine and provides a wireless output signal indicating the position or orientation. The portable digital media device is in wireless communication with each of the sensors. The device has an associated display and a memory in which is stored an application program which permits the device to determine the position of one or more portions of the earthmoving machine and to display the position of one or more portions of the earthmoving machine on the display. | 07-21-2011 |
20110196571 | System And Method For The Collection And Monitoring Of Vehicle Data - A communications hub for a vehicle includes a telematics device including a first communications interface to an external wireless network, a second communications interface to a plurality of vehicle sensors, and a global positioning system (GPS) interface. The telematics device is configured to (i) identify the driver of a vehicle; (ii) retrieve a profile for the driver including a profile permissions log; (iii) establish communications with the wireless network; (iv) establish communications with the vehicle sensor; (v) gather location information from the GPS interface; (v) collect data from a plurality of vehicle sensors; and (vi) send the collected data to an external recipient based on the profile permissions log. | 08-11-2011 |
20110202229 | IN-VEHICLE TIRE GAUGE SYSTEM AND METHODS - In-vehicle tire gauge system and methods are disclosed herein. The in-vehicle tire gauge system includes a user activated system operatively positioned in a vehicle. The user activated system includes at least one of preset voice prompts or audible tones for guiding a tire pressure check routine, a monitoring system for detecting a tire filling event, and a module for converting tire pressure data into audible feedback. At least one tire pressure monitoring sensor is operatively positioned at each tire of the vehicle and is configured to collect the tire pressure data and transmit such data to the module. An audio system is in operative communication with the user activated system, and is configured to output, via in-vehicle speakers associated with the audio system, the at least one of preset voice prompts or audible tones, the audible feedback, or combinations thereof. | 08-18-2011 |
20110208386 | METHOD OF ACTIVATING A TELEMATICS DEVICE - A method of registering a vehicle with a call center of a telematics system may entail turning a key within a vehicle ignition to begin a call from a telematics control module within the vehicle to a server at a telematics call center, connecting the telematics control module within the vehicle to the server at the telematics service center, sending a health check request from the telematics control module within the vehicle to the server at the telematics service center; and receiving a health check confirmation in the telematics control module within the vehicle from the server at the telematics service center. The method may further entail inquiring if such a health check request request-confirmation was successful. The method may also include a call fail counter and a message fail counter to automatically re-initiate a health check request and a successful answer to such a request. | 08-25-2011 |
20110218701 | METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CONFIGURING AN ON-BOARD MAINTENANCE INFORMATION SYSTEM IN AN AIRCRAFT - The invention in particular has as an object the configuring of an on-board maintenance information system in an aircraft, the information system comprising a first ( | 09-08-2011 |
20110218702 | Driver activity and vehicle operation logging and reporting - A method for logging and reporting driver activity and vehicle operation includes identifying a driver of a vehicle, recording operating data with an on-board recorder that is hard-wired to an engine control module, coupled to a mileage sensing system, and linked to a global navigation satellite system, and recording duty status of the driver. An hours of service log and a fuel tax log are created from the operating data. The method includes comparing the driver's hours of service log to an applicable requirement, indicating to the driver whether the driver is in-compliance or out-of-compliance with the applicable requirement, automatically uploading the logs to a receiver external to the vehicle using a wireless telecommunications network, and emitting a compliance signal representative of whether the driver is in-compliance or out-of-compliance with the applicable requirement to a second receiver external to the vehicle and under control of authorities. | 09-08-2011 |
20110218703 | VEHICLE BATTERY DIAGNOSIS SYSTEM - A vehicle battery diagnosis system diagnoses the state of degradation of a battery of a vehicle equipped with the battery as a motive power source. The system includes: an information accumulation portion that accumulates degradation information regarding the battery; an information processing portion that reads information from the information accumulation portion, and that creates a plurality of types of screen information that are different from each other in display format, for a plurality of information recipients; a display portion that displays a screen that corresponds to at least one of the types of screen information created by the information processing portion. | 09-08-2011 |
20110224866 | Method and Apparatus for Indicating an Automotive Diagnostic Urgency - Provided is a method for determining the urgency for repairing a diagnostic condition in a vehicle. Upon determining the repair urgency, a driver may decide to continue driving (in the case of a “low” urgency determination), or cease driving (in the case of a “high” urgency determination). The urgency status may also enable a driver to shop around for the repair (in the event of a “low” urgency status), or to seek immediate assistance (in the event of a “high” urgency status). | 09-15-2011 |
20110231055 | MAINTENANCE SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR VEHICLE FLEETS - A system and method for managing a fleet of vehicles including a control unit on one or more vehicles in the fleet of vehicles, a data collection unit on one or more vehicles in the fleet of vehicles in communication with the control unit, a server having an operational database for receiving data from one of the control unit and the data collection unit, and a telemetry module having access to the operational database for initiating an action based on an analysis of data on the server. | 09-22-2011 |
20110238257 | SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PREDICTING VEHICLE ENERGY CONSUMPTION - A method is provided for generating projected vehicle energy consumption information for a second vehicle using statistical information describing a driving history of a driver of a first vehicle. Statistical information is determined from collected vehicle performance values while the driver operates the first vehicle, and is archived in at least one memory location. The archived statistical information is correlated with a vehicle specification describing a performance capability of the second vehicle. A message is processed that includes the projected vehicle energy consumption information for the second vehicle. A vehicle is provided for generating the projected vehicle energy consumption information, and includes at least one memory location, sensors for measuring vehicle performance values of the vehicle describing a driver history of the first vehicle, and a controller adapted for automatically determining the statistical information. A controller is also provided adapted for executing the method. | 09-29-2011 |
20110238258 | EVENT-DRIVEN FAULT DIAGNOSIS FRAMEWORK FOR AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS - Systems and methods for capturing and analyzing significant parameter data from vehicle systems whenever a diagnostic trouble code (DTC) is triggered. A multi-dimensional matrix is constructed, with vehicles, DTCs, and parameter data comprising three dimensions of the matrix. The data matrix is populated with DTC and parameter data from many different vehicles, either when vehicles are taken to a dealer for service, or via wireless data download. Time can be added as a fourth dimension of the matrix, providing an indication of whether a particular system or component is temporally degrading. When sufficient data is accumulated, the data matrix is pre-processed, features are extracted from the data, and the features are classified, using a variety of mathematical techniques. Trained classifiers are then used to diagnose the root cause of any particular fault signal, and also to provide a prognosis of system health and remaining useful life. | 09-29-2011 |
20110238259 | V2X-Connected Cooperative Diagnostic & Prognostic Applications in Vehicular AD HOC Networks - A method is provided for processing and analyzing diagnostic and prognostic data in a vehicle ad-hoc network. Diagnostic and prognostic data is exchanged between a host vehicle and remote vehicles in the vehicle ad-hoc network. The received diagnostic and prognostic data is stored in a memory of the host vehicle. Redundancy is eliminated in the received diagnostic and prognostic data. The diagnostic and prognostic data is assigned to clusters. Anomalies are detected in the stored data utilizing clustering techniques that determine whether a cluster of diagnostic and prognostic data formed from the host vehicle substantially deviates from the clusters of diagnostic and prognostic data formed from the remote vehicles. A driver of a vehicle is notified if the cluster data from a host vehicle deviates significantly from the clusters from the remote vehicles. | 09-29-2011 |
20110238260 | Using Trust Points To Provide Services - In certain embodiments, processors may operate to establish trust with trust point systems by performing a user authentication, a platform authentication, and an environment authentication. The processors may communicate information with the trust point systems in response to establishing trust. In certain embodiments, the trust point systems may cooperate to provide a variety of services, such as escorting, battery charging, vehicle security, and/or emissions reporting services. | 09-29-2011 |
20110246019 | Energy Maps And Method Of Making - An energy map for a motor vehicle and a method of making the energy map are disclosed. The energy map includes energy information related to energy consumption and energy recharging of various power sources along various roadway segments. A probe vehicle is used to measure energy consumption and energy recharging for various power sources. | 10-06-2011 |
20110251751 | Motorized equipment tracking and monitoring apparatus, system and method - A tracking system for monitoring motorized equipment, comprising a tracking device that is connectable to at least one equipment interface that is in communication with an equipment system and is adapted to sense a characteristic state associated with the equipment system, the tracking device including a power supply, memory means for storing at least a first equipment characteristic state, processing means having at least one program associated therewith for processing the first equipment characteristic state, the processing means being further adapted to generate a first equipment system history as a function of the first equipment characteristic state, and transmission means for receiving user command signals, and transmitting at least a first system signal representing at least a portion of the first equipment system history in response to a first user command signal. | 10-13-2011 |
20110251752 | VEHICLE TELEMETRY SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR EVALUATING AND TRAINING DRIVERS - There is described a system and method for establishing a performance of at least one of a vehicle and an operator of the vehicle over a given period. In particular, the method comprises: recording measured vehicle parameters at a continuous rate over a given period, the continuous rate being at least as great as the rate of change of the measured vehicle parameters; calculating criteria using, for each criterion, a selection of the measured vehicle parameters; and outputting the criteria, the criteria being representative of a performance of at least one of the operator and the vehicle over the given period. | 10-13-2011 |
20110251753 | CAR-MOUNTED INFORMATION APPARATUS AND INFORMATION TRANSFER SYSTEM FOR ELECTRIC CAR - To securely prevent from battery depletion and enable transfer data without troubling a user, a communication address data storage unit stores a communication address datum such as an IP address, a telephone number of the predetermined information management apparatus arranged outside an electric car. When an accessory switch of the electric car is in OFF state, it is judged by a charge state judge unit whether or not the battery is in charging. When it is judged by the charge state judge unit that the battery is in charging, a control unit controls a radio communication unit to execute at least one action of transmitting updatable data and receiving update data for updating the updatable data between the information management apparatus. As a result, the car-mounted information apparatus can communicate by radio with the information management apparatus outside the electric car while the battery is in charging. | 10-13-2011 |
20110257833 | METHOD TO ENSURE SAFETY INTEGRITY OF A MICROPROCESSOR OVER A DISTRIBUTED NETWORK FOR AUTOMOTIVE APPLICATIONS - A processor integrity system in a vehicle includes m main processor modules that control at least m respective functions of the vehicle, where m is n integer greater than or equal to one. A monitoring processor module controls at least one function of the vehicle, communicates with the m main processor modules over a distributed vehicle network, selectively transmits a query to at least one of the m main processor modules over the distributed vehicle network, receives an answer from the at least one of the m main processor modules over the distributed vehicle network, that verifies integrity of the at least one of the m main processor modules based on the answer. | 10-20-2011 |
20110257834 | Mobile Data Loader for Aircraft Wireless Data Communications - Systems and methods for transferring data between a computer located on an aircraft and a computer located at an airport facility, such as at an airport gate or terminal, catering facility, baggage depot, or fueling depot, are described herein. The facility computer can store data content destined for aircraft that are to be serviced by the facility. A computer installed on a vehicle, such as a utility or catering truck can transfer data wirelessly with the facility computer and with the aircraft computer. An operator can navigate the vehicle between the facility and the aircraft to transfer data between the aircraft computer and the facility computer. Each of the computers can be communicably coupled to a wireless communication module to facilitate the wireless data transfer. The wireless communication modules can operate at a frequency range of approximately 60 GHz to facilitate quick transfer of large amounts of data. | 10-20-2011 |
20110257835 | Method for data communication between a vehicle and fuel pump - A method for data communication between a vehicle and fuel pump includes storing vehicle operating data on an onboard recorder in the vehicle, and transmitting the vehicle operating data from the onboard recorder to the fuel pump. The vehicle operating data includes vehicle identification information. | 10-20-2011 |
20110257836 | OPERATION CONTROL DEVICE - An operation control device includes: a database for storing generated heat amount conditions of a device provided in a satellite and temperature environment conditions based on an orbital position and attitude of the satellite; a thermal analysis condition generation unit for generating thermal analysis conditions on the basis of telemetry data transmitted from the satellite, the generated heat amount conditions, and the temperature environment conditions; an analysis unit for performing thermal analysis for computing a temperature inside the satellite on the basis of the thermal analysis conditions; a temperature distribution data generation unit for generating temperature distribution data of part or all inside the satellite in a three-dimensional display format on the basis of the temperature values obtained by the thermal analysis; and a display unit for displaying the temperature distribution data. | 10-20-2011 |
20110257837 | Method and Apparatus for Reading and Erasing Diagnostic Trouble Codes from a Vehicle - A method and apparatus is provided that allows a technician to retrieve diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and remove any duplicates. The diagnostic tool can retrieve DTCs from the various diagnostic systems in the vehicle, remove any duplicates and display a unique list of DTCs. The diagnostic tool can also erase all DTCs including any duplicates from the vehicle after repairs have been completed. The tool can retrieve the DTCs without the user selecting the system to retrieve from. | 10-20-2011 |
20110264322 | Method and System of Converting a Generic Tool and Customer Service System into a Specific Tool and Specific Customer Service System - Provided is a method for converting a generic system into a specifically-branded system after the sale of an item. The method alleviates a supplier's inventory burdens by allowing the supplier to inventory generic items, rather than items specifically branded for a particular retailer. The items may be branded with the selling retailer's logo or indicia after the sale of the item. Furthermore, the item may be associated with a customer service system, which may also be branded with the selling retailer's logo after the sale of the item. The conversion of the item and customer service system from a generic item and system into a specifically-branded item and system may foster the relationship between the supplier and retailer and entice the retailer to maintain the relationship with the supplier. | 10-27-2011 |
20110264323 | FAILURE SIGN DETECTION APPARATUS - The failure sign detection apparatus includes an abnormality detection means to make a comparison between a failure detection parameter of a vehicle device mounted on a vehicle and a predetermined abnormality detection threshold, and make a determination whether there is an abnormality in the vehicle device based on a result of the comparison, a failure sign evaluation index calculation means to calculate a failure sign evaluation index for evaluating a sign of failure of the vehicle device based on an abnormality duration period over which the detected abnormality continues and a parameter threshold difference indicative of a difference between the abnormality detection threshold and the failure detection parameter, and a failure sign detection means to detect a sign of failure of the vehicle device based on the failure sign evaluation index calculated by the failure sign evaluation index. | 10-27-2011 |
20110264324 | AUTOMOTIVE DIAGNOSTIC DATA MONITORING SYSTEMS AND METHODS - Embodiments of the present invention are generally directed to a system for monitoring a variety of environmental and/or other conditions within a defined remotely located region. Such a system may be configured to monitor utility meters in a defined area. The system is implemented by using a plurality of wireless transmitters, wherein each wireless transmitter is integrated into a sensor adapted to monitor a particular data input. The system also includes a plurality of transceivers that are dispersed throughout the region at defined locations. The system uses a local gateway to translate and transfer information from the transmitters to a dedicated computer on a network. The dedicated computer, collects, compiles, and stores the data for retrieval upon client demand across the network. The computer further includes means for evaluating the received information and identifying an appropriate control signal, the system further including means for applying the control signal at a designated actuator. Other aspects, features, and embodiments are also claimed and described. | 10-27-2011 |
20110270485 | MULTIPURPOSE IN-VEHICLE DIAGNOSTIC II ADAPTER - The present invention is directed to an extension connector. The extension connector may include a first connector communicatively coupled to an in-vehicle connector associated with an automobile. The extension connector may further include a second connector that may be communicatively coupled to the first connector. The extension connector may further include a third connector that may be communicatively coupled to the first connector and the second connector. | 11-03-2011 |
20110270486 | SYSTEM, METHOD AND COMPUTER PROGRAM FOR SIMULATING VEHICLE ENERGY USE - A system, method and computer program for simulating vehicle energy use is provided. The system comprises a server, an energy modeling tool is linked to a server and generates energy consumption data that provides an energy consumption function of a vehicle under consideration. The data logging tool is linked to test vehicles and collects drive cycle data from real-world driving conditions. The data logging tool then communicates the drive cycle data to the server over a network. The fleet management tool is also linked to the server and combines the energy consumption data with the drive cycle data to estimate the energy use of a vehicle under consideration. | 11-03-2011 |
20110270487 | REACTIVE REPLENISHABLE DEVICE MANAGEMENT - Reactive replenishable device management includes receiving, over a network, device measurement data from replenishable devices usable by corresponding vehicles and replenishable by corresponding replenisher devices; updating a usage profile corresponding to at least some of the replenishable devices, the usage profile including performance data derived from the device measurement data and saved to system memory over a period of time; determining whether energy usage of the replenishable devices is suboptimal based on corresponding usage profiles and vehicles in which the corresponding replenishable devices are used; and sending, over the network, a management recommendation to a mobile device of a user of each replenishable device for which the corresponding energy usage is suboptimal based on respective usage profiles. It may also include monitoring real-time performance data from the replenishable devices and corresponding vehicles for fault event information related thereto; determining whether the fault event information is indicative of a fault for the replenishable devices; and issuing an alert to a mobile device of a user for each replenishable device corresponding to a determined fault or having a usage profile indicative of a fault. | 11-03-2011 |
20110270488 | EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE AND MONITORING FOR CONTAINER YARDS - A processor is disclosed that may be configured to receive a status report for a vehicle in a container yard and/or a status reporting device configured to monitor the vehicle. The processor may respond to the received status report by creating a system action request and/or a system log. The system action request may include a fault condition problem report and/or a maintenance schedule request for the vehicle and/or the status reporting device. The processor automates generating responses to the received status reports, providing a fundamental tool to reduce down time for vehicles and improve their support of container transfer operations in the container yard. The system action request, system log and/or system action may be products of the processor's operation. A computer readable memory and/or a server may be configured to deliver a report, program system and/or an installation package to the end user. | 11-03-2011 |
20110276220 | VEHICLE GROUP CONTROL METHOD AND VEHICLE GROUP CONTROL DEVICE - A vehicle group control device for controlling the arrangement of vehicles within a vehicle group including plural vehicles, the vehicle group control device including: a periphery monitoring performance grasping unit which grasps a periphery monitoring performance of each vehicle constituting the vehicle group; and an arrangement determination unit which determines the arrangement of the vehicles within the vehicle group on the basis of the periphery monitoring performance of each vehicle. Accordingly, since the periphery monitoring performance of each vehicle within the vehicle group is grasped and the arrangement of the vehicles within the vehicle group can be determined on the basis of the periphery monitoring performance of each vehicle, it is possible to efficiently drive the entire vehicle group. | 11-10-2011 |
20110276221 | PC-BASED AUTOMOBILE OWNER'S MANUAL, DIAGNOSTICS, AND AUTO CARE - A computer built into an automobile displays the owner's manual for the car. The user requests more information about the automobile through the computer, and the additional information is displayed to the user. Information may include a description of a specific function or device of the car, service history, and/or real time status of a component of the car. | 11-10-2011 |
20110282542 | METHODS, APPARATUS, AND SYSTEMS FOR ACQUIRING AND ANALYZING VEHICLE DATA AND GENERATING AN ELECTRONIC REPRESENTATION OF VEHICLE OPERATIONS - Geo-referenced and/or time-referenced electronic drawings may be generated based on electronic vehicle information to facilitate documentation of a vehicle-related event. A symbols library, a collection of geo-referenced images, and any data acquired from one or more vehicles may be stored in memory for use in connection with generation of such drawings, and a drawing tool graphical user interface (GUI) may be provided for electronically processing vehicle data and geo-referenced images. Processed geo-referenced images may be saved as event-specific images, which may be integrated into, for example, an electronic vehicle accident report for accurately depicting a vehicle accident. | 11-17-2011 |
20110288722 | VEHICLE CALIBRATION USING DATA COLLECTED DURING NORMAL OPERATING CONDITIONS - Systems and methods for optimizing the performance of a vehicle under normal operating conditions. A vehicle system adjusts one or more vehicle operating parameters in a closed-loop in response to data received from sensors. A portable vehicle communication interface module is selectively attached to the vehicle without inhibiting normal operation of the vehicle. When connected to the vehicle, the vehicle communication interface module records the adjustments made by the vehicle system in closed-loop operation. These recorded values are then used to update calibration information that the vehicle system uses as default values. | 11-24-2011 |
20110295460 | REMOTE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM FOR EQUIPMENT - A system is provided for monitoring system and operational parameters on one or more pieces of machinery or equipment. The system can monitor the pieces of machinery or equipment in real time, i.e., the time delay between the taking of a measurement on a piece of equipment and its subsequent display in the system is within accepted standards, e.g., from about 1 second to about 1 minute depending on the type of measurement or data set being monitored. The system can also permit the tracking of the pieces of machinery or equipment and can enable the transfer, i.e., the sending and/or receiving, of information between the system and the pieces of machinery or equipment. | 12-01-2011 |
20110295461 | User Configurable Scan Tool - A diagnostic tool for a vehicle, includes a signal translator communicating with the vehicle in at least one protocol, an input device for inputting information, a processor controlling a software according to the input information from the input device and communication with the vehicle from the signal translator, the processor controlling a reception of diagnostic data of the vehicle through the signal translator, the processor receiving a selected information of a user and configuration of the diagnostic tool through the input device and correlating the configuration information with the user information, the processor processing the received diagnostic data according to the selected configuration information corresponding to the selected user by the input unit, a memory storing a software controlled by the processor, the memory storing the configuration information according to the corresponding user information, and a display unit receiving and displaying diagnostic information according to the selected stored configuration information according to the user. | 12-01-2011 |
20110301806 | Method and System For Intelligent Fuel Monitoring and Real Time Planning - A method and system are provided for intelligent fuel monitoring and real-time dynamic route planning for a vehicle. The system includes one or more sensor devices monitoring a vehicle status; and a processing system coupled to the one or more sensor devices, the processing system having a memory and a processor, wherein the processor is programmed to: receive a plurality of data such as: vehicle status sensor data, points of interest data, environmental data, user data, route data. The processor then learns driver behavior from the plurality of data that influences selection of driving routes; processes the plurality of data for a current route; determines an optimal route based on the plurality of data processed for the current route and the learned driver behavior; and outputs the optimal route. | 12-08-2011 |
20110301807 | ON-BOARD SERVICE PLATFORM AND SERVICES FOR FLEET MAINTENANCE AND MANAGEMENT - A service platform method in a local service platform system for enabling readiness and sustainability services for a deployed and fielded equipment unit, comprising the steps of:
| 12-08-2011 |
20110313614 | INTEGRATED AEROELASTICITY MEASUREMENT FOR VEHICLE HEALTH MANAGEMENT - Systems and methods for aeroelasticity measurement and vehicle structural health analysis and monitoring are disclosed. In one embodiment, a computer based system to monitor structural integrity of an aircraft comprises a processor and a memory module coupled to the processor and comprising logic instructions stored on a computer readable medium which, when executed by the processor, configures the processor to receive a plurality of aeroelasticity measurements and associated flight parameters collected in real time during a flight operation, store the plurality of aeroelasticity measurements and associated flight parameters in a persistent storage medium, and generate an alert when one or more aeroelasticity parameters exceeds a threshold. In some embodiments, the system may be implemented in a computing system or as logic instructions recorded on a computer readable medium. | 12-22-2011 |
20120010778 | POSITIONING SYSTEM, COMMUNICATION DEVICE, POSITIONING METHOD - There is provided a positioning system including a communication device which includes a connector configured to engage with a connector provided to a vehicle, a vehicle communication section configured to receive vehicle speed information or travelling distance information of the vehicle from the vehicle via the connector, and an information processing device-communication section configured to transmit, to an information processing device, transmission information based on the vehicle speed information or the travelling distance information acquired by the vehicle communication section, and the information processing device which includes a communication section configured to receive the transmission information from the communication device, and a position calculation section configured to calculate a current position based on the vehicle speed information or the travelling distance information. | 01-12-2012 |
20120016553 | Method and System for Detecting and Compensating Weather Condition Effects on Wireless Signals - A method and system for adjusting an operation of a wireless communication device based on information related to at least one of an operating status of a vehicle system and a weather condition. The method includes a step of receiving at least one information source related to an operation status of at least one vehicle system of a motor vehicle. The method further includes a step of analyzing the information to determine an ambient moisture condition. The method also includes adjusting an operating parameter of the wireless communication device and then operating the wireless communication device according to the adjusted operating parameter to compensate for attenuation to a wireless signal caused by the ambient moisture. | 01-19-2012 |
20120022741 | System For and Method For Providing A Communication System - A system for and method of establishing a communication link between mobile vehicles is presented. The method may include acquiring first information associated with a first mobile vehicle. The method may also include determining whether to update the first information associated with the first mobile vehicle. The method may further include transmitting, via a transceiver module, the first information associated with the first mobile vehicle based at least in part on the determination of not to update the first information associated with the first mobile vehicle. | 01-26-2012 |
20120029764 | COLLECT VEHICLE PERFORMANCE WITH A PDT - A mobile device comprising: a display; a data reader for reading data from an information bearing medium; at least one vehicle data collection device; a global positioning system (GPS); a wireless communications module; a memory device; a processor; and a housing configured for placement in a vehicle and supporting the display, the data reader, the vehicle data collection device, the GPS module, the wireless communications module, the memory device and the processor, wherein the vehicle data collection device facilitates monitoring at least one vehicle performance characteristic. | 02-02-2012 |