CA2229425A1 - Improved monitoring vehicle device - Google Patents
Improved monitoring vehicle device Download PDFInfo
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- CA2229425A1 CA2229425A1 CA 2229425 CA2229425A CA2229425A1 CA 2229425 A1 CA2229425 A1 CA 2229425A1 CA 2229425 CA2229425 CA 2229425 CA 2229425 A CA2229425 A CA 2229425A CA 2229425 A1 CA2229425 A1 CA 2229425A1
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- computer
- vehicle
- low power
- communication
- inputs
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- G—PHYSICS
- G08—SIGNALLING
- G08G—TRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEMS
- G08G1/00—Traffic control systems for road vehicles
- G08G1/20—Monitoring the location of vehicles belonging to a group, e.g. fleet of vehicles, countable or determined number of vehicles
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
- G07C5/00—Registering or indicating the working of vehicles
- G07C5/008—Registering or indicating the working of vehicles communicating information to a remotely located station
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07C—TIME OR ATTENDANCE REGISTERS; REGISTERING OR INDICATING THE WORKING OF MACHINES; GENERATING RANDOM NUMBERS; VOTING OR LOTTERY APPARATUS; ARRANGEMENTS, SYSTEMS OR APPARATUS FOR CHECKING NOT PROVIDED FOR ELSEWHERE
- G07C5/00—Registering or indicating the working of vehicles
- G07C5/08—Registering or indicating performance data other than driving, working, idle, or waiting time, with or without registering driving, working, idle or waiting time
- G07C5/0841—Registering performance data
- G07C5/085—Registering performance data using electronic data carriers
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- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Alarm Systems (AREA)
Abstract
A vehicle monitoring device of the type including a power source, a sensing module having multiple inputs for sensing events aboard a vehicle producing sensed data, a computer for organizing and storing the sensed data related to the events in an associated memory; and a communication module operatively associated to the computer for transmitting and receiving signals to and from a central location. In a first embodiment, the vehicle monitoring device further includes at least one communication port, operatively associated with the computer, the communication port being designed to send and receive information from a peripheral device, where the computer can open a direct communication link between the communication port and the communication module, so that the peripheral device can be in transparent communication with the central location. In a second embodiment, the vehicle monitoring device further includes an automatic sleep mode system including a low power microprocessor, where the low power microprocessor is operatively connected to at least one of the inputs of the sensing module and where the low power microprocessor is operatively connected to the computer, so that the automatic sleep mode system can power down the computer when the vehicle is turned off and the automatic sleep mode system can power up the computer when the low power microprocessor detects a change of state from the input. The automatic sleep mode system can also power up the computer after a predetermined time interval.
Description
' CA 02229425 1998-03-12 IMPROVED MONITORING VEHICLE DEVICE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to vehicle monitoring devices, and more particularly to such devices which have a sleep mode, and which can permit transparent communication between a central location and a peripheral device located in a vehicle.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
In the field of fleet management, companies are now equipping their vehicles with a system which can monitor various functions of the vehicle such as its speed, the interior temperature of its cargo-bay, the occurrence and timing of the opening and closing of a door, fuel consumption, etc., by means of various sensors which are placed at critical locations on the vehicle and relay the information so gathered to a unit located on board a vehicle. The unit located on board the vehicle is in communication with a central location, or base, so that all or part of the information may be transmitted back to the central location, either at regular intervals, or upon a request from the central location. Information may also be transmitted when a given event occurs on board the vehicle, which requires attention of the central location.
It is also known in this field to provide the vehicle with a GPS (Global Positioning System) module which serves to indicate, within a fair degree of accuracy, the physical, or geographical, location of a vehicle. The GPS module can then, through the unit located! on board the vehicle, relay to the central location the information, which may then be displayed on a geographical map in order to pinpoint the location of i:he vehicle.
It should be noted that the vf:hicle monitoring units described above can be used not only in the case of a fleet of trucks, but can also be used in police cars or other emergency vehicles, in rental car fleets, tow trucks. etc. These units are adaptable to any number of situations where a person wants information about the status of a vehicle and location of a vehicle.
Communication between the central location and the vehicle is usually effected through radio-communication, which includes cellular communications.
Some prior art systems have been developed which transmit only discrete packets of information, in order to preserve bandwidth and to minimize costs associated with radio-communication.
Examples of vehicle monitoring devices and methods for programming them which have been patented can be seen in U.S. patent nos. 5,570,087 (LEMELSON), 5,400,018 (SCHOLL et al.), 5,410,739 (HART), 5,424,720 (KIRKPATRICK), 5,519,621 (WORTHAM), 5,648,898 (MOORE-McKEE et al.), 5,225,842 (BROWN et al.), 5,631,832 (HAGENBUCH), 4,328,494 (GOODALL) and 5,303,163 (EBAUGH et al.).
However, to Applicant's knowledge, none of the prior art systems includes means for permitting transparent communication between a peripheral device located on a vehicle and the central location. This can be useful, for example, for a person wishing to send or receive a facsimile transmission, without needing a separate, dedicated communication link such as a cellular telephone line. This can also be useful, for example, for a police vehicle, particularly in the case where the police vehicle is equipped with a magnetic card reader, so that the information contained on the magnetic card can be transmitted to the base for verification or authorization purposes.
Another drawback in prior art systems is the incapability, again to Applicant's knowledge, for the device to be in a "sleep mode". In prior art systems, the unit located on board the vehicle is usually powered by the vehicle's battery, which means that the unit may "sense" events even when the vehicle's engine is not running. However) the drawback is that should the unit be powered for a relatively long period of time without the engine running, the power consumption tends to drain the vehicle's battery relatively quickly and thus the unit becomes inoperative.
For example, should a mechanical failure occur on board the vehicle, resulting in the event that the driver (or operator) of the vehicle have to abandon it, and in the event that repairs cannot be effected quickly enough, it would be desirable to continue to have information about the status of the vehicle during this unattended period. The prior art systems, to Applicant's knowledge, would continue transmitting information to the base up until the power runs out, which may be shorter than the time required to repair the vehicle thereby leaving a period when no information would be available about the status of the vehicle.
There is thus a need for a vehicle monitoring unit which can be turned in a sleep mode, where only critical events are monitored continuously, thereby reducing the power consumption, and wherE: full activation of the vehicle monitoring unit is triggered after the occurrence of a given event or change of the state of the vehicle.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is thus a first object of the invention to provide a vehicle monitoring unit which can be placed in transparent mode to permit communication between a device located in the vehicle and the base. It is second object of the invention to provide a vehicle monitoring unit which can, in some circumstances, be placed in sleep mode.
The vehicle monitoring device is of the type including:
a power source associated with a vehicle for powering the vehicle monitoring device;
a sensing module having a plurality of inputs for sensing a plurality of events aboard a vehicle producing sensed data;
a computer for organizing and storing the sensed data related to the events in an associated memory; and a communication module operatively associated to the computer for transmitting and receiving signals i:o and from a central location.
In accordance with the invention, the first object is achieved with a vehicle monitoring device of the type mentioned above, where the device further includes at least one communication port, operatively associated with the computer, the at least one communication port being designed to send and receive information from a peripheral device, where the computer can open a direct communication link between the communication port and the communication module, whereby the peripheral device can be in transparent communication with the central location.
In accordance with the invention, the second object is achieved with a vehicle monitoring device of the type mentioned above) where the device further includes an automatic sleep mode system including a low power microprocessor, where the low power microprocessor is operatively connected to at least one of the inputs of the sensing module and where the low power microprocessor is operatively connected to the computer, whereby the automatic sleep mode system can power down the computer when the vehicle is turned off and the automatic sleep mode system can power up the computer 1 U when the low power microprocessor detects a change of state from the at least one input and whereby the automatic sleep mode system can also power up the computer after a predetermined time interval.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The present invention and its advantages will be more easily understood after reading the following non-restrictive description of preferred embodiments thereof, made with reference to the following drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a vehicle monitoring device according to the invention; and Figure 2 is a schematic representation of direct communication between a peripheral device connected to a vehicle monitoring device and a central location according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION
The invention, as mentioned above, concerns a vehicle monitoring device 1 used to monitor various events aboard a vehicle. Such a device 1 typically includes a power source ;3, which, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, is the vehicle's battery (12V or 24V, depending on the type of vehicle). Preferably, the power source 3 is filtered and protected by a fuse 5, converted from a switching type internal power supply to 8.5V DC 7 and converted again to +5V DC, to stabilize the power source. Preferably, as will be further detailed hereinafter, the output of the switching regulator 7 is applied to a +5V regulator with ON/OFF switch 9, which powers a computer 21, and to a +5V low current regulator 11 which powers an automatic sleep mode system 41, the purpose of which will be dE;tailed hereinafter.
5 The device usually includes a sensing module 61 having a plurality of inputs for sensing a plurality of events aboard a vehicle, the sensing module producing sensed data, as will be more detailed hereinafter.
The device includes the computer 21 for organizing and storing the sensed data related to the events in an associated memory. Furthermore, the device also includes a communication module, operatively associated with the computer, for transmitting and receiving signals from a central location through a serial port.
In a preferred embodiment, the sensing module 61 includes a plurality of inputs 63 operatively associated with movement of the vehicle. In the case of Fig. 1, these inputs 63 are denoted Impulse Counters, and are associated with the speed of the vehicle and IPM of the engine, and may include other types of pulsed data.
The sensing module 61 also includes a plurality of inputs 65 operatively associated with the state of the vehicle and the engine, denoted Analog Inputs, for monitoring temperature of the engine, oil pressure, temperature inside the cabin, temperature in the cargo hold (particularly useful for refrigerated transport trucks), etc.
The sensing module 61 also includes a plurality of inputs 67 operatively associated with a plurality of discrete occurrences aboard the vehicle.
Discrete events) in the context of the present invention, denotes discrete occurrences such as stepping on the brake pedal, opening the left or right doors, opening a rear door or a hatch, turning on the ignition, turning on the parking light.
At present, in the vehicle monitoring dE:vice 1 of the invention, up to sixteen such discrete events may be monitored, although miniaturization of components could allow for many more. Typically, these inputs 67 are in the form of sensors or switches aboard the vehicle. It should be noted that in the preferred embodiment of the invention, these inputs 67 are not directly associated with the computer, as will be seen hereinafter.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to vehicle monitoring devices, and more particularly to such devices which have a sleep mode, and which can permit transparent communication between a central location and a peripheral device located in a vehicle.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
In the field of fleet management, companies are now equipping their vehicles with a system which can monitor various functions of the vehicle such as its speed, the interior temperature of its cargo-bay, the occurrence and timing of the opening and closing of a door, fuel consumption, etc., by means of various sensors which are placed at critical locations on the vehicle and relay the information so gathered to a unit located on board a vehicle. The unit located on board the vehicle is in communication with a central location, or base, so that all or part of the information may be transmitted back to the central location, either at regular intervals, or upon a request from the central location. Information may also be transmitted when a given event occurs on board the vehicle, which requires attention of the central location.
It is also known in this field to provide the vehicle with a GPS (Global Positioning System) module which serves to indicate, within a fair degree of accuracy, the physical, or geographical, location of a vehicle. The GPS module can then, through the unit located! on board the vehicle, relay to the central location the information, which may then be displayed on a geographical map in order to pinpoint the location of i:he vehicle.
It should be noted that the vf:hicle monitoring units described above can be used not only in the case of a fleet of trucks, but can also be used in police cars or other emergency vehicles, in rental car fleets, tow trucks. etc. These units are adaptable to any number of situations where a person wants information about the status of a vehicle and location of a vehicle.
Communication between the central location and the vehicle is usually effected through radio-communication, which includes cellular communications.
Some prior art systems have been developed which transmit only discrete packets of information, in order to preserve bandwidth and to minimize costs associated with radio-communication.
Examples of vehicle monitoring devices and methods for programming them which have been patented can be seen in U.S. patent nos. 5,570,087 (LEMELSON), 5,400,018 (SCHOLL et al.), 5,410,739 (HART), 5,424,720 (KIRKPATRICK), 5,519,621 (WORTHAM), 5,648,898 (MOORE-McKEE et al.), 5,225,842 (BROWN et al.), 5,631,832 (HAGENBUCH), 4,328,494 (GOODALL) and 5,303,163 (EBAUGH et al.).
However, to Applicant's knowledge, none of the prior art systems includes means for permitting transparent communication between a peripheral device located on a vehicle and the central location. This can be useful, for example, for a person wishing to send or receive a facsimile transmission, without needing a separate, dedicated communication link such as a cellular telephone line. This can also be useful, for example, for a police vehicle, particularly in the case where the police vehicle is equipped with a magnetic card reader, so that the information contained on the magnetic card can be transmitted to the base for verification or authorization purposes.
Another drawback in prior art systems is the incapability, again to Applicant's knowledge, for the device to be in a "sleep mode". In prior art systems, the unit located on board the vehicle is usually powered by the vehicle's battery, which means that the unit may "sense" events even when the vehicle's engine is not running. However) the drawback is that should the unit be powered for a relatively long period of time without the engine running, the power consumption tends to drain the vehicle's battery relatively quickly and thus the unit becomes inoperative.
For example, should a mechanical failure occur on board the vehicle, resulting in the event that the driver (or operator) of the vehicle have to abandon it, and in the event that repairs cannot be effected quickly enough, it would be desirable to continue to have information about the status of the vehicle during this unattended period. The prior art systems, to Applicant's knowledge, would continue transmitting information to the base up until the power runs out, which may be shorter than the time required to repair the vehicle thereby leaving a period when no information would be available about the status of the vehicle.
There is thus a need for a vehicle monitoring unit which can be turned in a sleep mode, where only critical events are monitored continuously, thereby reducing the power consumption, and wherE: full activation of the vehicle monitoring unit is triggered after the occurrence of a given event or change of the state of the vehicle.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is thus a first object of the invention to provide a vehicle monitoring unit which can be placed in transparent mode to permit communication between a device located in the vehicle and the base. It is second object of the invention to provide a vehicle monitoring unit which can, in some circumstances, be placed in sleep mode.
The vehicle monitoring device is of the type including:
a power source associated with a vehicle for powering the vehicle monitoring device;
a sensing module having a plurality of inputs for sensing a plurality of events aboard a vehicle producing sensed data;
a computer for organizing and storing the sensed data related to the events in an associated memory; and a communication module operatively associated to the computer for transmitting and receiving signals i:o and from a central location.
In accordance with the invention, the first object is achieved with a vehicle monitoring device of the type mentioned above, where the device further includes at least one communication port, operatively associated with the computer, the at least one communication port being designed to send and receive information from a peripheral device, where the computer can open a direct communication link between the communication port and the communication module, whereby the peripheral device can be in transparent communication with the central location.
In accordance with the invention, the second object is achieved with a vehicle monitoring device of the type mentioned above) where the device further includes an automatic sleep mode system including a low power microprocessor, where the low power microprocessor is operatively connected to at least one of the inputs of the sensing module and where the low power microprocessor is operatively connected to the computer, whereby the automatic sleep mode system can power down the computer when the vehicle is turned off and the automatic sleep mode system can power up the computer 1 U when the low power microprocessor detects a change of state from the at least one input and whereby the automatic sleep mode system can also power up the computer after a predetermined time interval.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
The present invention and its advantages will be more easily understood after reading the following non-restrictive description of preferred embodiments thereof, made with reference to the following drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a vehicle monitoring device according to the invention; and Figure 2 is a schematic representation of direct communication between a peripheral device connected to a vehicle monitoring device and a central location according to a preferred embodiment of the invention.
DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT OF THE INVENTION
The invention, as mentioned above, concerns a vehicle monitoring device 1 used to monitor various events aboard a vehicle. Such a device 1 typically includes a power source ;3, which, in a preferred embodiment of the invention, is the vehicle's battery (12V or 24V, depending on the type of vehicle). Preferably, the power source 3 is filtered and protected by a fuse 5, converted from a switching type internal power supply to 8.5V DC 7 and converted again to +5V DC, to stabilize the power source. Preferably, as will be further detailed hereinafter, the output of the switching regulator 7 is applied to a +5V regulator with ON/OFF switch 9, which powers a computer 21, and to a +5V low current regulator 11 which powers an automatic sleep mode system 41, the purpose of which will be dE;tailed hereinafter.
5 The device usually includes a sensing module 61 having a plurality of inputs for sensing a plurality of events aboard a vehicle, the sensing module producing sensed data, as will be more detailed hereinafter.
The device includes the computer 21 for organizing and storing the sensed data related to the events in an associated memory. Furthermore, the device also includes a communication module, operatively associated with the computer, for transmitting and receiving signals from a central location through a serial port.
In a preferred embodiment, the sensing module 61 includes a plurality of inputs 63 operatively associated with movement of the vehicle. In the case of Fig. 1, these inputs 63 are denoted Impulse Counters, and are associated with the speed of the vehicle and IPM of the engine, and may include other types of pulsed data.
The sensing module 61 also includes a plurality of inputs 65 operatively associated with the state of the vehicle and the engine, denoted Analog Inputs, for monitoring temperature of the engine, oil pressure, temperature inside the cabin, temperature in the cargo hold (particularly useful for refrigerated transport trucks), etc.
The sensing module 61 also includes a plurality of inputs 67 operatively associated with a plurality of discrete occurrences aboard the vehicle.
Discrete events) in the context of the present invention, denotes discrete occurrences such as stepping on the brake pedal, opening the left or right doors, opening a rear door or a hatch, turning on the ignition, turning on the parking light.
At present, in the vehicle monitoring dE:vice 1 of the invention, up to sixteen such discrete events may be monitored, although miniaturization of components could allow for many more. Typically, these inputs 67 are in the form of sensors or switches aboard the vehicle. It should be noted that in the preferred embodiment of the invention, these inputs 67 are not directly associated with the computer, as will be seen hereinafter.
It should also be noted that the above itemization of the inputs are used for convenience only, and any other type of data can be monitored through appropriate inputs without departing from the scope of the invention.
The vehicle monitoring device 1 as mentioned above also includes a computer 21 for organizing and storing the sensed data related to the events in an associated memory 23 and a communication module 81 operatively associated with the computer for transmitting and receiving signals to and from a central location.
The computer 21 typically includes a reset circuit 25, a permanent memory 27, such as a EEPROM memory containing the program needed for performing vehicle monitoring, a work area RAM 29 and a storage RAM 31 both part of the associated memory 23. The computer 21 may also include other components or substitutions for the above-mentioned components, without departing from the scope of the invention. The computer 21 is also appropriately programmed, through the EEPROM 27, to receive the sensed data, organize it and store it accordingly in the storage RAM 31. Preferably) the computer 21 also includes a real time clock 33) and the sensed data is further time-coded for ease of retrieval and organization. However, the object of the invention does not lie in the coding of the sensed data, since a person skilled in the field would tailor the coding and storing requirements according to particular needs.
The computer 21 is also programmed to receive queries from a central location and to respond accordingly.
The vehicle monitoring device 1 further includes a communication module 81, operatively associated with the computer, for transmitting and receiving signals from a central location. Accordingly, the vehicle monitoring device 1 may, upon request from the central location or at predetermined intervals) or upon occurrence of a given event aboard the vehicle, i.e. a door opening, or high RPM, or low or high temperature, as examples only, transmit all or a portion of the information stored in the storage RAM 31 Preferably, the communication module 81 includes an RS-232C
communication port 83, denoted ASSYNC SERIAL #4 on Figs. 1 and 2, which is in communication with the computer 21 and either a radio modem 85 or a cellular radio module 87 (including a modem) or both. Accordingly, communication with the central location may be effected either through radio waves or through a cellular network. The communication module 81 further preferably includes flow control means for controlling the flow of information to and from the central location) i.e. to adjust the baud rate accordingly.
It is also known to provide location means 101 ) operatively associated with the computer, for continuously providing information to the computer for eventual storage about the geographic location of the vehicle. Such a system may take the form of a GPS navigational sensor 103, or a LORAN-C
navigational unit. These systems are well known in the art.
Most vehicles now also come equipped with an electronic engine control system which is computerized, for regulating air flow) oxygen mix) etc. These control systems usually have a communication port, useful for mechanical diagnostic tools. The vehicle monitoring device 1 according to the invention may thus further include an RS485 type data link interface 111 for extracting the information from the control system and storing it in the computer, for eventual review.
It is further known in the prior art to provide alarm and disabling systems to protect vehicles. Accordingly, the vehicle monitoring system according to the invention may further include 8 digital driver outputs 121 for driving an alarm system, an internal pilot to inform a user of the activation/deactivation of the alarm system, and may even be used to locklunlock doors) to cut power to the starter of the engine, fuel pump, etc.
In a first preferred embodiment of the invention, the device 1 further includes at least one communication port 131, preferably three as seen in Figs.
1 and 2, operatively associated with the computer, designed to send and receive information from a peripheral device.
This feature is particularly useful, for example, in the case where the vehicle is equipped with a keyboard/display 133, a credit card reader 135 (or other magnetic card reader), or a printer 137, in order to interface the peripheral device with the computer 21 of the device. For example, the keyboard/display 133 may display within the vehicle the information gathered by the vehicle monitoring device 1 so that the driver, or any other person in the vehicle) is kept g abreast of the various sensors.
However, the possibility of adding peripheral devices to the vehicle monitoring device 1 provides the added possibility of direct communication between the peripheral device and the central location. For example, it is becoming more common to provide police cars with credit card readers for on-the-spot payment of fines such as speeding fines. The present invention seeks to minimize the requirements of adding a peripheral device to an existing system by allowing "transparent" communication between the peripheral device and the central location through the computer 21 of the vehicle monitoring device 1. Essentially) when the central location wishes to communicate with the peripheral device, or vice-versa, means are provided within the computer to open a direct link between the communication port 131 on which the peripheral device is connected and the communication module 81 of the vehicle monitoring device as seen on Fig. 2 usually in the form of a command. The computer 21 does not manipulate the information exchanges between the peripheral device and the central location other than to provide basic management functions, such as directing the information to the appropriate port. Thus, the central location's computer (such as a PC)) "sees" the peripheral device as if it was directly connected to it through one of its ports.
Accordingly, and for example purposes only, a police vehicle equipped with a magnetic card reader such as a credit card reader) upon stopping a person accused of speeding, could write up the summons and, should the person plead guilty on the spot, swipe the credit card of the person through the magnetic card reader for instant debit of the associated account from the central location through the vehicle monitoring device.
There is furthermore a movement towards "smart cards", i.e. cards provided with a micro-chip containing part or all of the information associated with the carrier. This movement is gaining widespread acceptance in health insurance. Accordingly, magnetic card readers may also be installed in ambulances, so that an attendant, should a person be unconscious, may be able to obtain at least minimal information about the medical history of the person from the central location through the vehicle monitoring device and provide emergency treatment accordingly.
In both of the above examples, it should be understood that the central location must itself be in communication with the appropriate databases in order to provide the peripheral device in the vehicle with the information. Thus, should information be read from a magnetic card reader requesting debit authorization, the authorization would appear on a display or out of a printer.
Similarly, should medical information be requested about a person, the identity of which is encoded in a magnetic or smart card, the desired information would appear on a display located in the vehicle.
The transparency mode is also useful for dispatching current work schedules to a driver or operator of the vehicle equipped with a printer, or even through a visual display.
It should be noted that the invention is not limited to the above peripheral devices, but that any other devices permitting some sort of information exchange between a central location and a vehicle through the vehicle monitoring unit can be connected to it.
This procedure obviates the need for complicated communication protocols between the central location, the computer on board the vehicle and the peripheral device. Accordingly, the information that is transmitted between the central location and the peripheral device must be appropriately packaged, included CRC (cyclic redundancy checks), to avoid transmission errors.
However, any appropriate type of packaging of the information is within the skill of an expert in this field.
An important feature of the "transparency mode" described above is that the central location, as well as the computer on board the vehicle must both be able to automatically control the rate of flow of the information (baud rate), as mentioned above.
Preferably, the communication module communicates, in transparent mode, through a cellular link, since a radio link has limited transfer rate and bandwidth.
In a second preferred embodiment of the invention, the device according to the invention further includes an automatic sleep mode system 41 which can power down the computer 21 when the vehicle is turned off, and power the computer 21 back up when the automatic sleep mode system 41 detects a I~
change of state of the vehicle or' after a predetermined time interval. The automatic sleep mode system 41 has as its main purpose the conservation of power. Indeed, the vehicle monitaring device 1 of the invention, as shown on Fig. 1, typically consumes approximately 470 milliamperes per hour. If the engine is turned off) this current is drawn directly from the battery) which drains it quite rapidly. The automatic sleep mode system 41, on the other hand, consumes at most 20 milliamperes per hour.
The automatic sleep mode system 41 includes a low power microprocessor 43, operatively connected to the computer through, preferably, a bidirectional communication link 45. The low power microprocessor 43 is also operatively connected to at least one of the inputs of the sensing module 61.
Preferably, the low power microprocessor 43 is operatively connected to the inputs 67 operatively associated with the plurality of discrete occurrences aboard the vehicle mentioned above. Means are also provided within the automatic sleep mode system 41 to power down the computer 21 when the vehicle is turned off, to power up the computer 21 when the low power microprocessor 43 detects a change of state from at least one of the inputs 67 and to power up the computer 21 after a predetermined time interval, as will be hereinafter detailed.
It should be noted that in the present invention) the computer 21 is the master and the low power microprocessor 43 acts as a slave to it. Accordingly, when the engine is turned off, the computer 21 sends a signal to the low power microprocessor 43 trough the bidirectional link 45 authorizing it to power down the computer 21 and to store in memory the state of the inputs 47 prior to power down. When power down, or shutdown, occurs, the +5V regulator 9 with ONIOFF switch is disconnected (turning the switch to the off state), but the low power microprocessor is nonetheless still connected to the power source through the +5V low current regulator 11.
In such a case) the only inputs 67 that are monitored, as shown in Fig.
1, are the brake lights, left or rear door, etc. Should any one of the inputs change state while the system is in sleep mode) the low power microprocessor 43 would automatically power up the computer 21 by switching the +5V
regulator 9 to the ON state, thereby putting the computer in normal operating mode. Depending on the change of state of the vehicle, the computer 21 may be programmed to alert the central location of the change of state and provide additional information to the central location if required.
As shown on Fig. 1, the inputs 67 are connected to a low current input buffer 47, which transmits to the micro controller the state of the inputs 67 just prior to powering down of the computer 21, since otherwise the inputs would change state at shutdown and alert the low power microprocessor 43.
Furthermore, the inputs are connected to a parallel-in serial-out buffer 49 which is in turn connected to the low power microprocessor 43 for verification of the state of the inputs 67, or changes thereof (during "sleep mode") The automatic sleep mode system 41 may also be prografnmed to power up the computer 21 at regular timE: intervals for a predetermined period of time.
For example, should a fleet manager, located at the central location, desire to obtain geographic location and an updated status report on a fleet of vehicles every hour on the hour during the night) the automatic sleep mode system 41, provided with a clock 51, would power up the computer 21 every hour for a predetermined period of time, such as fifteen minutes, to allow the central location to obtain the required information.
The automatic sleep mode system 41 may also further include a target identification interface 53. Such an interface 53 is usually a sensor upon which a magnetic, or otherwise coded ID member is applied. This is particularly useful for keeping track of who is the operator of the vehicle. If the automatic sleep mode system 41 does include a target identification interface 53, it is operatively connected to the low power microprocessor 43, so that if the system is in sleep mode, the insertion of the ID member into the interface 53 signals the low power microprocessor 43 that the vehicle will be shortly turned on, and thus the computer 21 should be powered. Ilf the automatic sleep mode system 41 does not include a target identification interface 53) the low power microprocessor must power up the computer 21 when the ignition of the vehicle is turned on.
However, since a door would usually have to be opened prior to turning on the ignition) the system would be powered up in any event due to the change of state of the vehicle.
It should be evident that the power up of the computer 21 is effected by turning on the switch in the +5V regulator 9 with ONIOFF switch.
It should also be noted that although the invention has been described with two preferred embodiments, both may be present in a single vehicle monitoring device 1.
5 Although the present invention has been explained hereinabove by way of a preferred embodiment thereof, it should be pointed out that any modifications to this preferred embodiment within the scope of the appended claims is not deemed to alter or change the nature and scope of the present invention.
The vehicle monitoring device 1 as mentioned above also includes a computer 21 for organizing and storing the sensed data related to the events in an associated memory 23 and a communication module 81 operatively associated with the computer for transmitting and receiving signals to and from a central location.
The computer 21 typically includes a reset circuit 25, a permanent memory 27, such as a EEPROM memory containing the program needed for performing vehicle monitoring, a work area RAM 29 and a storage RAM 31 both part of the associated memory 23. The computer 21 may also include other components or substitutions for the above-mentioned components, without departing from the scope of the invention. The computer 21 is also appropriately programmed, through the EEPROM 27, to receive the sensed data, organize it and store it accordingly in the storage RAM 31. Preferably) the computer 21 also includes a real time clock 33) and the sensed data is further time-coded for ease of retrieval and organization. However, the object of the invention does not lie in the coding of the sensed data, since a person skilled in the field would tailor the coding and storing requirements according to particular needs.
The computer 21 is also programmed to receive queries from a central location and to respond accordingly.
The vehicle monitoring device 1 further includes a communication module 81, operatively associated with the computer, for transmitting and receiving signals from a central location. Accordingly, the vehicle monitoring device 1 may, upon request from the central location or at predetermined intervals) or upon occurrence of a given event aboard the vehicle, i.e. a door opening, or high RPM, or low or high temperature, as examples only, transmit all or a portion of the information stored in the storage RAM 31 Preferably, the communication module 81 includes an RS-232C
communication port 83, denoted ASSYNC SERIAL #4 on Figs. 1 and 2, which is in communication with the computer 21 and either a radio modem 85 or a cellular radio module 87 (including a modem) or both. Accordingly, communication with the central location may be effected either through radio waves or through a cellular network. The communication module 81 further preferably includes flow control means for controlling the flow of information to and from the central location) i.e. to adjust the baud rate accordingly.
It is also known to provide location means 101 ) operatively associated with the computer, for continuously providing information to the computer for eventual storage about the geographic location of the vehicle. Such a system may take the form of a GPS navigational sensor 103, or a LORAN-C
navigational unit. These systems are well known in the art.
Most vehicles now also come equipped with an electronic engine control system which is computerized, for regulating air flow) oxygen mix) etc. These control systems usually have a communication port, useful for mechanical diagnostic tools. The vehicle monitoring device 1 according to the invention may thus further include an RS485 type data link interface 111 for extracting the information from the control system and storing it in the computer, for eventual review.
It is further known in the prior art to provide alarm and disabling systems to protect vehicles. Accordingly, the vehicle monitoring system according to the invention may further include 8 digital driver outputs 121 for driving an alarm system, an internal pilot to inform a user of the activation/deactivation of the alarm system, and may even be used to locklunlock doors) to cut power to the starter of the engine, fuel pump, etc.
In a first preferred embodiment of the invention, the device 1 further includes at least one communication port 131, preferably three as seen in Figs.
1 and 2, operatively associated with the computer, designed to send and receive information from a peripheral device.
This feature is particularly useful, for example, in the case where the vehicle is equipped with a keyboard/display 133, a credit card reader 135 (or other magnetic card reader), or a printer 137, in order to interface the peripheral device with the computer 21 of the device. For example, the keyboard/display 133 may display within the vehicle the information gathered by the vehicle monitoring device 1 so that the driver, or any other person in the vehicle) is kept g abreast of the various sensors.
However, the possibility of adding peripheral devices to the vehicle monitoring device 1 provides the added possibility of direct communication between the peripheral device and the central location. For example, it is becoming more common to provide police cars with credit card readers for on-the-spot payment of fines such as speeding fines. The present invention seeks to minimize the requirements of adding a peripheral device to an existing system by allowing "transparent" communication between the peripheral device and the central location through the computer 21 of the vehicle monitoring device 1. Essentially) when the central location wishes to communicate with the peripheral device, or vice-versa, means are provided within the computer to open a direct link between the communication port 131 on which the peripheral device is connected and the communication module 81 of the vehicle monitoring device as seen on Fig. 2 usually in the form of a command. The computer 21 does not manipulate the information exchanges between the peripheral device and the central location other than to provide basic management functions, such as directing the information to the appropriate port. Thus, the central location's computer (such as a PC)) "sees" the peripheral device as if it was directly connected to it through one of its ports.
Accordingly, and for example purposes only, a police vehicle equipped with a magnetic card reader such as a credit card reader) upon stopping a person accused of speeding, could write up the summons and, should the person plead guilty on the spot, swipe the credit card of the person through the magnetic card reader for instant debit of the associated account from the central location through the vehicle monitoring device.
There is furthermore a movement towards "smart cards", i.e. cards provided with a micro-chip containing part or all of the information associated with the carrier. This movement is gaining widespread acceptance in health insurance. Accordingly, magnetic card readers may also be installed in ambulances, so that an attendant, should a person be unconscious, may be able to obtain at least minimal information about the medical history of the person from the central location through the vehicle monitoring device and provide emergency treatment accordingly.
In both of the above examples, it should be understood that the central location must itself be in communication with the appropriate databases in order to provide the peripheral device in the vehicle with the information. Thus, should information be read from a magnetic card reader requesting debit authorization, the authorization would appear on a display or out of a printer.
Similarly, should medical information be requested about a person, the identity of which is encoded in a magnetic or smart card, the desired information would appear on a display located in the vehicle.
The transparency mode is also useful for dispatching current work schedules to a driver or operator of the vehicle equipped with a printer, or even through a visual display.
It should be noted that the invention is not limited to the above peripheral devices, but that any other devices permitting some sort of information exchange between a central location and a vehicle through the vehicle monitoring unit can be connected to it.
This procedure obviates the need for complicated communication protocols between the central location, the computer on board the vehicle and the peripheral device. Accordingly, the information that is transmitted between the central location and the peripheral device must be appropriately packaged, included CRC (cyclic redundancy checks), to avoid transmission errors.
However, any appropriate type of packaging of the information is within the skill of an expert in this field.
An important feature of the "transparency mode" described above is that the central location, as well as the computer on board the vehicle must both be able to automatically control the rate of flow of the information (baud rate), as mentioned above.
Preferably, the communication module communicates, in transparent mode, through a cellular link, since a radio link has limited transfer rate and bandwidth.
In a second preferred embodiment of the invention, the device according to the invention further includes an automatic sleep mode system 41 which can power down the computer 21 when the vehicle is turned off, and power the computer 21 back up when the automatic sleep mode system 41 detects a I~
change of state of the vehicle or' after a predetermined time interval. The automatic sleep mode system 41 has as its main purpose the conservation of power. Indeed, the vehicle monitaring device 1 of the invention, as shown on Fig. 1, typically consumes approximately 470 milliamperes per hour. If the engine is turned off) this current is drawn directly from the battery) which drains it quite rapidly. The automatic sleep mode system 41, on the other hand, consumes at most 20 milliamperes per hour.
The automatic sleep mode system 41 includes a low power microprocessor 43, operatively connected to the computer through, preferably, a bidirectional communication link 45. The low power microprocessor 43 is also operatively connected to at least one of the inputs of the sensing module 61.
Preferably, the low power microprocessor 43 is operatively connected to the inputs 67 operatively associated with the plurality of discrete occurrences aboard the vehicle mentioned above. Means are also provided within the automatic sleep mode system 41 to power down the computer 21 when the vehicle is turned off, to power up the computer 21 when the low power microprocessor 43 detects a change of state from at least one of the inputs 67 and to power up the computer 21 after a predetermined time interval, as will be hereinafter detailed.
It should be noted that in the present invention) the computer 21 is the master and the low power microprocessor 43 acts as a slave to it. Accordingly, when the engine is turned off, the computer 21 sends a signal to the low power microprocessor 43 trough the bidirectional link 45 authorizing it to power down the computer 21 and to store in memory the state of the inputs 47 prior to power down. When power down, or shutdown, occurs, the +5V regulator 9 with ONIOFF switch is disconnected (turning the switch to the off state), but the low power microprocessor is nonetheless still connected to the power source through the +5V low current regulator 11.
In such a case) the only inputs 67 that are monitored, as shown in Fig.
1, are the brake lights, left or rear door, etc. Should any one of the inputs change state while the system is in sleep mode) the low power microprocessor 43 would automatically power up the computer 21 by switching the +5V
regulator 9 to the ON state, thereby putting the computer in normal operating mode. Depending on the change of state of the vehicle, the computer 21 may be programmed to alert the central location of the change of state and provide additional information to the central location if required.
As shown on Fig. 1, the inputs 67 are connected to a low current input buffer 47, which transmits to the micro controller the state of the inputs 67 just prior to powering down of the computer 21, since otherwise the inputs would change state at shutdown and alert the low power microprocessor 43.
Furthermore, the inputs are connected to a parallel-in serial-out buffer 49 which is in turn connected to the low power microprocessor 43 for verification of the state of the inputs 67, or changes thereof (during "sleep mode") The automatic sleep mode system 41 may also be prografnmed to power up the computer 21 at regular timE: intervals for a predetermined period of time.
For example, should a fleet manager, located at the central location, desire to obtain geographic location and an updated status report on a fleet of vehicles every hour on the hour during the night) the automatic sleep mode system 41, provided with a clock 51, would power up the computer 21 every hour for a predetermined period of time, such as fifteen minutes, to allow the central location to obtain the required information.
The automatic sleep mode system 41 may also further include a target identification interface 53. Such an interface 53 is usually a sensor upon which a magnetic, or otherwise coded ID member is applied. This is particularly useful for keeping track of who is the operator of the vehicle. If the automatic sleep mode system 41 does include a target identification interface 53, it is operatively connected to the low power microprocessor 43, so that if the system is in sleep mode, the insertion of the ID member into the interface 53 signals the low power microprocessor 43 that the vehicle will be shortly turned on, and thus the computer 21 should be powered. Ilf the automatic sleep mode system 41 does not include a target identification interface 53) the low power microprocessor must power up the computer 21 when the ignition of the vehicle is turned on.
However, since a door would usually have to be opened prior to turning on the ignition) the system would be powered up in any event due to the change of state of the vehicle.
It should be evident that the power up of the computer 21 is effected by turning on the switch in the +5V regulator 9 with ONIOFF switch.
It should also be noted that although the invention has been described with two preferred embodiments, both may be present in a single vehicle monitoring device 1.
5 Although the present invention has been explained hereinabove by way of a preferred embodiment thereof, it should be pointed out that any modifications to this preferred embodiment within the scope of the appended claims is not deemed to alter or change the nature and scope of the present invention.
Claims (12)
1. A vehicle monitoring device for a vehicle having a power source for powering said device, of the type including:
a sensing module having a plurality of inputs for sensing a plurality of events aboard a vehicle producing sensed data;
a computer for organizing and storing said sensed data related to said events in an associated memory; and a communication module operatively associated to said computer for transmitting and receiving signals to and from a central location;
wherein:
said device further includes at least one communication port, operatively associated with said computer, said at least one communication port being designed to send and receive information from a peripheral device; and means are provided within said computer to open a direct communication link between said at least one communication port and said communication module, whereby said peripheral device may be in transparent communication with said central location.
a sensing module having a plurality of inputs for sensing a plurality of events aboard a vehicle producing sensed data;
a computer for organizing and storing said sensed data related to said events in an associated memory; and a communication module operatively associated to said computer for transmitting and receiving signals to and from a central location;
wherein:
said device further includes at least one communication port, operatively associated with said computer, said at least one communication port being designed to send and receive information from a peripheral device; and means are provided within said computer to open a direct communication link between said at least one communication port and said communication module, whereby said peripheral device may be in transparent communication with said central location.
2. A vehicle monitoring device according to claim 1, wherein said device includes three communication ports, each of said three communication ports being operatively associated with said computer and being designed to send and receive information from a peripheral device respectively, whereby said means provided within said computer open a direct communication link between one of a first, second and third communication ports and said central location.
3. A vehicle monitoring device according to claim 1, wherein said peripheral device is a magnetic card reader.
4. A vehicle monitoring device according to claim 1, wherein said peripheral device is a keyboard and associated display.
5. A vehicle monitoring device according to claim 1, wherein said peripheral device is a printer.
6. A vehicle monitoring device according to claim 1, wherein said peripheral device is a fax.
7. A vehicle monitoring device according to claim 1, wherein said at least one communication port further includes flow control means.
8. A vehicle monitoring device for a vehicle having a power source for powering said device, of the type including:
a sensing module having a plurality of inputs for sensing a plurality of events aboard a vehicle producing sensed data;
a computer for organizing and storing said sensed data related to said events in an associated memory; and a communication module operatively associated to said computer for transmitting and receiving signals to and from a central location;
wherein:
said device further includes an automatic sleep mode system including a low power microprocessor, where said low power microprocessor is operatively connected to at least one of said inputs of said sensing module and where said low power microprocessor is operatively connected to said computer; and means are provided within said automatic sleep mode system to power down said computer when said vehicle is turned off and to power up said computer when said low power microprocessor detects a change of state from said at least one input and to power up said computer after a predetermined time interval.
a sensing module having a plurality of inputs for sensing a plurality of events aboard a vehicle producing sensed data;
a computer for organizing and storing said sensed data related to said events in an associated memory; and a communication module operatively associated to said computer for transmitting and receiving signals to and from a central location;
wherein:
said device further includes an automatic sleep mode system including a low power microprocessor, where said low power microprocessor is operatively connected to at least one of said inputs of said sensing module and where said low power microprocessor is operatively connected to said computer; and means are provided within said automatic sleep mode system to power down said computer when said vehicle is turned off and to power up said computer when said low power microprocessor detects a change of state from said at least one input and to power up said computer after a predetermined time interval.
9. A device according to claim 8, wherein:
said low power microprocessor is operatively connected to said computer through a bidirectional communication link.
said low power microprocessor is operatively connected to said computer through a bidirectional communication link.
10. A device according to claim 9, wherein:
said sensing module includes:
a plurality of inputs operatively associated with a movement of said vehicle;
a plurality of inputs operatively associated with a state of said vehicle; and a plurality of inputs operatively associated with a plurality of discrete occurrences aboard said vehicle; and wherein said low power microprocessor is operatively associated with said plurality of inputs operatively associated with said plurality of discrete occurrences aboard said vehicle.
said sensing module includes:
a plurality of inputs operatively associated with a movement of said vehicle;
a plurality of inputs operatively associated with a state of said vehicle; and a plurality of inputs operatively associated with a plurality of discrete occurrences aboard said vehicle; and wherein said low power microprocessor is operatively associated with said plurality of inputs operatively associated with said plurality of discrete occurrences aboard said vehicle.
11. A device according to claim 9, further including:
a target identification interface, operatively connected to said low power microprocessor;
wherein said microprocessor can power up said computer in response to a signal received from said target identification interface.
a target identification interface, operatively connected to said low power microprocessor;
wherein said microprocessor can power up said computer in response to a signal received from said target identification interface.
12. A device according to claim 1, further including:
an automatic sleep mode system including a low power microprocessor, where said low power microprocessor is operatively connected to at least one of said inputs of said sensing module and where said low power microprocessor is operatively connected to said computer; and means provided within said automatic sleep mode system to power down said computer when said vehicle is turned off and to power up said computer when said low power microprocessor detects a change of state from said at least one input and to power up said computer after a predetermined time interval.
an automatic sleep mode system including a low power microprocessor, where said low power microprocessor is operatively connected to at least one of said inputs of said sensing module and where said low power microprocessor is operatively connected to said computer; and means provided within said automatic sleep mode system to power down said computer when said vehicle is turned off and to power up said computer when said low power microprocessor detects a change of state from said at least one input and to power up said computer after a predetermined time interval.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2229425 CA2229425A1 (en) | 1998-03-12 | 1998-03-12 | Improved monitoring vehicle device |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2229425 CA2229425A1 (en) | 1998-03-12 | 1998-03-12 | Improved monitoring vehicle device |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2229425A1 true CA2229425A1 (en) | 1999-09-12 |
Family
ID=29409271
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2229425 Abandoned CA2229425A1 (en) | 1998-03-12 | 1998-03-12 | Improved monitoring vehicle device |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2229425A1 (en) |
Cited By (5)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR2801994A1 (en) * | 1999-12-03 | 2001-06-08 | Renault | Management procedure and arrangement for a fleet of hire vehicles that can be picked up and dropped off on a self-service basis at a large number of locations, is flexible and requires little extra hire related hardware |
| EP1571600A3 (en) * | 2004-02-27 | 2006-08-02 | Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Data recording apparatus and shut-down method for data recording apparatus |
| EP1571599A3 (en) * | 2004-02-27 | 2006-08-16 | Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Data recording apparatus and the method thereof |
| EP1589490A3 (en) * | 2004-02-27 | 2006-08-16 | Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Control unit and data transmitting method |
| CN112734983A (en) * | 2021-01-27 | 2021-04-30 | 上海哲雷汽车用品有限公司 | Driving recorder capable of protecting memory card and automatically switching on and off |
-
1998
- 1998-03-12 CA CA 2229425 patent/CA2229425A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (10)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FR2801994A1 (en) * | 1999-12-03 | 2001-06-08 | Renault | Management procedure and arrangement for a fleet of hire vehicles that can be picked up and dropped off on a self-service basis at a large number of locations, is flexible and requires little extra hire related hardware |
| EP1571600A3 (en) * | 2004-02-27 | 2006-08-02 | Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Data recording apparatus and shut-down method for data recording apparatus |
| EP1571599A3 (en) * | 2004-02-27 | 2006-08-16 | Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Data recording apparatus and the method thereof |
| EP1589490A3 (en) * | 2004-02-27 | 2006-08-16 | Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Control unit and data transmitting method |
| US7424351B2 (en) | 2004-02-27 | 2008-09-09 | Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Control unit and data transmitting method |
| US7706939B2 (en) | 2004-02-27 | 2010-04-27 | Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Data recording apparatus and shut-down method for data recording apparatus |
| CN1661347B (en) * | 2004-02-27 | 2010-09-15 | 富士重工业株式会社 | Control unit and data transmitting method |
| CN1661348B (en) * | 2004-02-27 | 2011-01-12 | 富士重工业株式会社 | Data recording apparatus and shut-down method for data recording apparatus |
| CN1661350B (en) * | 2004-02-27 | 2011-12-07 | 富士重工业株式会社 | Data recording apparatus and data recording method |
| CN112734983A (en) * | 2021-01-27 | 2021-04-30 | 上海哲雷汽车用品有限公司 | Driving recorder capable of protecting memory card and automatically switching on and off |
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