GB2525067A

GB2525067A - Monitoring system and method

Info

Publication number: GB2525067A
Application number: GB1501850.0A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Menachem Mendel Sudak
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2014-02-04
Filing date: 2015-02-04
Publication date: 2015-10-14
Also published as: WO2015118322A1; GB201401873D0; GB201501850D0

Abstract

A monitoring system (1) for determining compliance with parking rules and for charging for parking events. A controller (2) includes a detection module for detecting a parking event associated with a vehicle (4), geospatial positioning module for determining a geospatial position of the vehicle (4) and a memory module on which is stored databases of parking locations and associated parking rules, rates and fines and biometric data relating to authorised drivers of the vehicle (4). The system (1) is configured to detect a parking event, determine a geospatial position of the vehicle (4), retrieve from the database parking rules associated with the determined geospatial position and to determine based on the parking rules whether the vehicle (4) is permitted to park. If the vehicle (4) is not permitted to park in the determined position, the system (1) notifies the driver of one or more of the alternative parking positions or the system (1) retrieves from the database the relevant fine and issues the fine to an account associated with the driver or the vehicle (4). A biometric sensor can capture data for driver biometric recognition. Images captured from around the vehicle at the time of parking can also be stored.

Description

MONITORING SYSTEM AND METHOD

This invention relates generally to a monitoring system and method. More specifically, although not exclusively, this invention relates to a monitoring system and method for use in connection with the parking of a vehicle.

Despite advances in automated car parking systems, most car parking facilities still employ traditional payment systems. The two most common payment systems in use in the UK are so-called pay-and-display' systems, which are commonly supplemented by a telephone or electronic payment facility, and barriers operated by tickets collected on entry and paid immediately prior to departure. Some modern parking facilities incorporate numberplate recognition systems that identify automatically vehicles as they are parked.

US2002014361 1 discloses a system and a method for performing vehicle payment transactions. The system includes a vehicle with location determining and communication components and a server with communication and transaction components. The location determining component determines the location of the vehicle, which is then sent to the server and the server determines if the vehicle location corresponds to a pay location, in which case the server completes a payment transaction.

EP1 941462 discloses a method and device for automatic payment of traffic related fees for a vehicle, such as parking fees and road taxes. Automatic payment is effected by determining the position of the vehicle to be parked using a network-based position correction system, determining the time the vehicle has been parked and completing a payment transaction using a data link between the vehicle and a server.

One issue with the aforementioned automated parking systems is that compliance and accurate charging rely on the correct processing and interpretation of the data by the parking server.

It is a first non-exclusive object of the invention to provide a system that mitigates this issue.

It is a further non-exclusive object of the invention to provide a system and method for determining compliance with parking rules.

Accordingly, a first aspect of the invention provides a monitoring system, e.g. for determining compliance with parking rules and/or for charging for parking, the system comprising: a) detection means in or on or associated with or mounted or mountable to a vehicle for detecting and/or anticipating a parking event associated with a vehicle; b) geospatial positioning means in or on or associated with or mounted or mountable to the vehicle for determining a geospatial position of the vehicle; c) an optional image capture means in or on or associated with or mounted or mountable to the vehicle for capturing image data relating to the location of the io vehicle; d) memory means for storing data; and e) a processor operatively connected to the detection means, the geospatial positioning means, if present the optional image capture means and the memory means; is wherein the system is configured or programmed to process and/or store on or in the memory means, on or after detection or anticipation of a parking event by the detection means, time data, geospatial position data determined by the geospatial positioning means and if applicable image data captured by the optional image capture means, e.g. relating to the parking event.

By processing and/or storing the aforementioned data, the system is able to track parking events associated with a vehicle. This enables automatic processing of parking charges, fines and penalties, for example without the need for traffic wardens and the like.

For the avoidance of doubt, the term "parking rules" as used herein includes parking restrictions and any mention of such "parking rules" may be replaced with parking rules or restrictions" or simply "parking restrictions".

The parking event may comprise the beginning or initiation and/or the end or completion of a parking session.

The database may comprise parking rules and/or fines, for example associated with each of a plurality of different geospatial locations. The system may be configured, for example on or after detection of a parking event by the detection means, to determine a geospatial position of the vehicle, e.g. using the geospatial positioning means, and to retrieve, for example from the or a database, one or more parking rules, e.g. associated with the determined geospatial position. The system may also be configured to determine, for example based on the one or more parking rules and/or the determined geospatial position of the vehicle, whether the vehicle is permitted to park, e.g. in the determined geospatial position. The system may also be configured to retrieve, for example from the database, a fine associated with the determined geospatial position if the vehicle is not permitted to park in the determined geospatial position.

Another aspect of the invention provides a monitoring system, e.g. for determining compliance with parking rules and/or for applying a charge to a parking event, the system io comprising: a) detection means in or on or associated with or mounted or mountable to a vehicle for detecting a parking event associated therewith; b) geospatial positioning means in or on or associated with or mounted or mountable to the vehicle for determining a geospatial position thereof; is c) memory means on which is stored a database of parking rules, and optionally fines, associated with each of a plurality of different geospatial locations; and d) a processing means operatively connected to the detection means, the geospatial positioning means and the memory means; wherein the system is configured, on or after detection of a parking event by the detection means, to determine a geospatial position of the vehicle using the geospatial positioning means, to retrieve from the database one or more parking rules associated with the determined geospatial position, to determine based on the one or more parking rules whether the vehicle is permitted to park in the determined geospatial position and if the vehicle is not permitted to park in the determined geospatial position to retrieve from the database a fine associated with the determined geospatial position and/or to notify a driver of the vehicle of one or more alternative parking positions.

By allocating a fine and/or notifying the driver of an alternative parking location automatically, unauthorised parking is less likely to occur and, if it does, the fine may be applied automatically without the need for human intervention.

In some embodiments, the system may be configured, for example on or after detection of a parking event by the detection means, to retrieve from the database one or more rates or costs or fines associated with the determined geospatial position and/or one or more rates or costs or fines associated with one or more alternative parking positions. The system may be configured to notify a driver of the vehicle of one or more alternative parking positions, for example if a rate or cost or fine associated therewith is less than that associated with the determined geospatial position.

Another aspect of the invention provides a monitoring system, e.g. for determining compliance with parking rules and/or for applying a charge to a parking event, the system comprising: a) detection means in or on or associated with or mounted or mountable to a vehicle for detecting a parking event associated therewith; b) geospatial positioning means in or on or associated with or mounted or mountable to the vehicle for determining a geospatial position thereof; c) memory means on which is stored a database of rates and/or costs and/or fines associated with parking at each of a plurality of different geospatial locations; and d) a processor operatively connected to the detection means, the geospatial positioning means and the memory means; is wherein the system is configured, on or after detection of a parking event by the detection means, to determine a geospatial position of the vehicle using the geospatial positioning means, to retrieve from the database a rate or cost or fine associated with the determined geospatial position and a rate or cost or fine associated with one or more alternative parking positions and to notify a driver of the vehicle of the or each alternative parking position, for example if the rate or cost or fine associated therewith is less than that associated with the determined geospatial position.

Providing lower cost alternative parking positions to the driver enables him or her to minimise expenditure on parking. This can also enhance the ability of local authorities to tailor parking charges to provide drivers with incentives to park in one or more preferred locations to minimise traffic disruptions in congested areas.

The system may be configured to notify an authority and/or to issue or to cause to be issued a penalty charge notice, which may reflect or relate to a fine relating to the parking session.

Another aspect of the invention provides a monitoring system, e.g. for determining compliance with parking rules and/or for applying a charge to a parking event, the system comprising: a) detection means in or on or associated with or mounted or mountable to a vehicle for detecting a parking event associated therewith; b) geospatial positioning means in or on or associated with or mounted or mountable to the vehicle for determining a geospatial position thereof; c) memory means on which is stored a database of parking rules associated with each of a plurality of different geospatial locations; and d) a processing means operatively connected to the detection means, the geospatial positioning means and the memory means; wherein the system is configured, on or after detection of a parking event by the detection means, to determine a geospatial position of the vehicle using the geospatial positioning means, to retrieve from the database one or more parking rules associated with the determined geospatial position, to determine based on the one or more parking rules whether the vehicle is permitted to park in the determined geospatial position and to notify an authority and/or to issue or to cause to be issued a penalty charge notice, if the vehicle is not permitted to park in the determined geospatial position.

is Automating the process of issuing a penalty charge notice eliminates the need for human intervention, thereby reducing costs to local authorities and/or car park operators and reducing the likelihood of undetected parking violations.

The penalty charge notice or a copy thereof may be issued to the owner of the vehicle and/or to the registered address. Additionally or alternatively, the penalty charge notice or a copy thereof may be issued electronically. for example to one or more digital addresses, e.g. an email address or telephone number, associated with the system or with the vehicle.

The penalty charge notice may include information relating to the rights of the recipient, for example rights of appeal. The issuing of a penalty charge notice may instigate a transaction or payment, for example from an account associated with the system or vehicle.

The detection means may comprise a detector or detection element or module or component or device. The detection means may be configured to detect an operational state of an engine of a vehicle to be monitored and/or the movement or non-movement of or within the vehicle. The detection means may comprise circuitry operatively connected one or more sensors or to one or more systems, e.g. onboard systems, of the vehicle.

Additionally or alternatively, the detection means may comprise a program or a program element, e.g. on the or a further memory means. The further memory means may comprise a detection memory means or a parking detection memory means. In some embodiments, the detection means comprises or is operatively connected to a sensor, for example a vibration sensor or an accelerometer, which may be positioned to detect whether the engine is in operation. Additionally or alternatively, the detection means may be operatively connected to a speedometer of the vehicle or may comprise the or a further geospatial positioning means. The or a further geospatial positioning means may be configured to detect a predetermined vehicle speed or non-movement of the vehicle, e.g. during a predetermined time interval. Additionally or alternatively, the detection means may be comprised in or connected to the speedometer of the vehicle and may be configured to detect a predetermined vehicle speed or non-movement of the vehicle, e.g. during a predetermined time interval. Additionally or alternatively, the detection means may comprise the or an image or video capture means or other type of sensor such as an infrared sensor, which may be configured to detect non-movement of or within the vehicle, e.g. during a predetermined time interval.

The system may further comprise an alert means, e.g. for alerting the driver of the vehicle of the detection of or in anticipation of a parking event, for example the beginning or initiation is and/or end or completion of a parking session. The system may be configured to retrieve, for example from a database that may be stored on or in the or a further, e.g. second, memory means, information relating to the position or location of the vehicle and/or to cause the alert means to provide the driver with the information. The information may include one or more of the rate and/or cost and/or fine associated with parking in the detected position or location. Where the parking event comprises the beginning or initiation of a parking session, the information may include a recommended alternative parking position or location, for example in or for or in respect of which the rate and/or cost and/or fine is less than in the detected position.

The database may comprise information relating to a plurality of geospatial positions or locations, which preferably include one or more of car parks, for example one or more of off road and/or multi story car parks and/or store car parks and/or private car parks, private parking spaces, on street and/or off street parking spaces and restriction zones, for example no parking or no stopping or drop off or disabled zones and/or temporary construction zones and the like. The information may include one or more rates and/or costs and/or fines, which may but need not be associated with one or more parking rules or restrictions, such as time based rules or restrictions, vehicle size and/or weight based rules or restrictions, disability rules or restrictions and any other type of rules or restrictions.

The system may be configured or programmable to apply one or more criteria for identifying or selecting the one or more alternative parking positions. The one or more criteria may comprise one or more of a distance, e.g. from the or a determined geospatial position, one or more features of the alternative parking position or of a car park associated therewith, for example opening times and/or the owner or operator and/or minimum space size and/or one or more security features such as whether it is lit and/or manned and/or one or more other features thereof.

Another aspect of the invention provides a monitoring system, e.g. for determining compliance with parking rules and/or for applying a charge to a parking event, the system comprising: a) detection means in or on or associated with a vehicle for detecting a parking event associated therewith; b) biometric data detection means on or in or associated with or mounted or mountable to the vehicle for detecting biometric data associated with one or more individuals in the vehicle, e.g. an individual operating or driving or attempting to park the vehicle; is c) geospatial positioning means in or on or associated with the vehicle for determining a geospatial position thereof; and d) a processing means operatively connected to the detection means, biometric detection means and the geospatial positioning means; wherein the system is configured, on or after detection of a parking event by the detection means, to detect biometric data associated with one or more individuals in the vehicle using the biometric data detection means, to determine a geospatial position of the vehicle using the geospatial positioning means and to associate the detected parking event and geospatial position data with the detected biometric data.

By associating parking events with the relevant individuals, parking charges may be determined on a driver basis, rather than on the basis of the vehicle being parked. This would allow a single driver to park several vehicles, but be charged to a single account for example. Moreover, this system also enables parking behaviour to be associated with the relevant individual, thereby enabling parking costs and/or fines to be adjusted based on such behaviour. This system will enable parking charges to be related to a driver, rather than to a vehicle. Unwanted behaviour, such as repeated parking infractions, may be discouraged through higher rates or fines while preferable behaviour, such as few or no parking infractions and/or regular use of certain parking locations, may be rewarded through lower rates for example.

The system may comprise memory means on which is stored a database of parking rules associated with each of a plurality of different geospatial locations. The system may be configured to retrieve from the database one or more parking rules associated with the determined geospatial position.

For the avoidance of doubt, any of the features described herein apply equally to any aspect of the invention.

The system may comprise memory means on which is stored a database of biometric data associated with one or more individuals, e.g. authorised individuals. The memory means comprising the database may but need not comprise the aforementioned memory means or a further, e.g. biometric data memory means. The system may be configured to compare the detected biometric data with the database of biometric data, for example in order to identify an individual corresponding to the detected biometric data.

The system may be configured to store, e.g. on the memory means or on data storage memory means, data relating to one or more parking events, for example together with one or more details of the identified individual or in one or more folders associated with the identified individual. The data relating to one or more parking events may include any one or more of time data, geospatial position data determined by the geospatial positioning means, image data captured by the optional image capture means, one or more parking rules and/or violations thereof and/or the detected biometric data.

Preferably, the system is configured to compile and/or store and/or send to an authority a parking profile associated with one or more identified individuals. More preferably, the parking profile includes data relating to one or more parking events and/or details of the identified individual. The parking profile may include data relevant to one or more predetermined behaviours, for example factors determined to be relevant to one or more such behaviours. The data relating to one or more parking events or the parking profile may be sent to an authority at the end of each parking event or at regular, e.g. predetermined, time intervals.

The system may be configured to analyse at least pad of one or more parking profiles, e.g. at least some of the data relating to one or more parking events of the one or more parking profiles, against or according to a behaviour matrix. The behaviour matrix may comprise a plurality of behaviour factors each having a predetermined weighting fol converting the parking profile to a behaviour profile or behaviour value. Preferably, the system is configured or programmed to extract from a parking profile data relating to one or more or each of the behaviour factors and to select or generate or calculate a behaviour profile or behaviour value based on the data.

One or more of the rates or costs or fines may be at least partially dependent upon one or more conditions, which may be associated with or dependent upon the vehicle or the driver.

In some embodiments, one or more of the rates or costs or fines is at least partially dependent upon previous behaviour or activity by the driver or relating to the system or vehicle, for example the parking profile or behaviour profile or behaviour value associated with the identified individual. For example, where undesirable or bad behaviour or one or more or a plurality of instances thereof is observed or detected, for example one or more or a plurality of offences have been detected or recorded, e.g. one or more or a plurality of fines have been issued, in association with the vehicle or driver or system, one or more is rates or costs or fines may be increased, for example by a predetermined amount or percentage or proportion. Additionally or alternatively, where desirable or good behaviour or one or more or a plurality of instances thereof is observed or detected, for example parking in locations that meet one or more predetermined criteria and/or less than a predetermined number of instances of undesirable or bad behaviour, one or more rates or costs or fines may be decreased, e.g. by a predetermined amount oi percentage or proportion. It is also envisaged that the rate or cost or fine associated with one or more parking locations may be reduced on the basis of a volume discount or some other discount criteria.

In some embodiments, the or a further input means, e.g. for entering or programming or selecting one or more of the criteria.

The alert means may be configured to notify a driver of the vehicle of the alternative parking position and/or the rate or cost or fine associated therewith and/or of the fine associated with the determined geospatial position and/or information, such as one or more features or aspects of the information in the database or additional information such as advertisements. The alert means may be configured to display one or more alternative parking positions at least partly in dependence on sponsorship from one or more car park or parking space owners or operators. In some embodiments, the one or more sponsored alternative parking positions may be displayed separately, while in other embodiments they may be displayed together with, e.g. within the same list as, unsponsored alternative parking positions.

The system may be configured or programmed on or after detection of an end or completion of a parking session to calculate the total cost of or fine relating to the parking session.

Where the parking event comprises the end or completion of a parking session, the information provided to the driver by the alert means may comprise the total cost of or fine relating to the completed parking session.

The alert means may comprise an alerter or alert element or module or component or device. The system may further comprise alert means, for example audible or visual alert means or device, which may comprise an audible or visual or audiovisual device. The alert means may comprise an audible means, e.g. for providing an audible alert or indication or statement or description of at least part of the information, and/or a display means or is display, e.g. for providing a visual representation of at least part of the information. The at least part of the information may comprise one or more of the rate and/or cost and/or fine and/or detected parking position or location and/or recommended alternative parking position or location.

The image capture means may comprise an imager or image capture element or module or component or device. The image capture means may comprise a camera or camera means. At least part of the image capture means, e.g. a lens of which, may be positioned or positionable or located or locatable or mounted or mountable to one or more different parts of the vehicle. Preferably, at least part of the image capture means is positioned or positionable to capture one or more images or videos of an area surrounding the vehicle.

More preferably, the image capture means comprises two or more image capture devices for capturing images or videos of two or more parts of an area surrounding the vehicle. The at least part of the image capture means may be positioned or positionable or located or locatable or mounted or mountable adjacent or on or to the front and/or rear of the vehicle, e.g. a front and/or a rear bumper or numberplate or grill or tailgate, and/or one side or each or both sides thereof and/or facing outwardly therefrom.

In some embodiments, at least part of the image capture means is positioned or positionable to capture one or more images or videos of an interior of the vehicle, e.g. an image of an individual or driver attempting to park the vehicle and/or of one or more passengers within the vehicle. The at least part of the image capture means may be positioned or positionable or located or locatable or mounted or mountable on or adjacent the windscreen or windshield, for example on or in a rearview mirror housing, or in or adjacent a pillar or side of the windscreen or windshield.

The biometric data detection means may comprise a detector or detection element or module or component or device. The biometric data detection means may comprise one or more devices for detecting biometric data relating to one or more of a facial profile and/or fingerprints and/or DNA and/or retinal patterns and/or any other biometric parameter or feature.

The system or biometric detection means may further comprise a comparison algorithm, for example a facial recognition or fingerprint or DNA or retinal pattern algorithm. The system may be configured or programmed to compare one or more characteristics of a captured image or video, e.g. a captured image of the individual or driver, with a database of is biometric data, which may be stored on the memory means or the biometric data memory means, for example using the comparison algorithm. The captured image or video may comprise an image or video of the individual or driver or his or her face or a fingerprint or retinal pattern. In embodiments, the image may comprise only part, e.g. half or more or less, of an individual or face or fingerprint or retinal pattern. In some embodiments, the system comprises a facial recognition algorithm and the system is configured or programmed to compare one or more characteristics of a captured image of an individual or driver with a database of biometric data in order to identify an individual corresponding to the image.

Additionally or alternatively, the biometric data detection means may comprise one or more devices for detecting biometric data relating to one or more of fingerprints and/or DNA and/or retinal patterns and/or any other biometric parameter or feature.

The system may be configured to suppress or omit or mask part of the data relating to one or more passengers, e.g. to preserve the anonymity or privacy of one or more of the passengers. For example, the system may be configured to capture one or more images of passengers with one or more predetermined areas, e.g. one or more facial areas or regions, suppressed or omitted or masked or blurred or blanked.

The system may be configured or programmed to capture video data from the or a further image capture means. The video data may comprise or relate to data corresponding to one or more videos or images of the inside of the vehicle and/or of one or more areas surrounding the vehicle.

In some embodiments, the system is configured or programmed to capture and store video data in a volatile memory, e.g. in a circular buffer, wherein the oldest data may be overwritten with newer incoming data, e.g. such that a fixed and/or continuous length of video is stored. The system may be configured or programmed to transfer, e.g. on detection of a parking event, the data stored in the volatile memory to a non-volatile memory. One or both of the volatile memory and/or the non-volatile memory may be incorporated in the or a yet further memory means.

The image capture means may comprise at least one wide angle lens, for example a so-called fish-eye lens, and/or be configured to communicate wirelessly with the system, e.g. with the processor and/or memory means. Alternatively, the image capture means may be is electrically connected to the processor and/or memory means by a cable or wire or other physical means.

The geospatial positioning means may comprise a locator or geospatial positioning element or module or component or device or receiver. The geospatial positioning means may comprise one or more, for example two or more, e.g. three or more, preferably four, locators or geospatial or global positioning elements or modules or components or devices or receivers. The geospatial positioning means may be configured to determine a geospatial position by communicating with and/or obtaining data from one or more satellites. The geospatial positioning means may comprise a global positioning system (GPS). Each of the locators or geospatial or global positioning elements or modules or components or devices or receivers is preferably located in a different location or position, e.g. to improve the accuracy of the determined geospatial position. Additionally or alternatively, the geospatial position means may comprise a cellular communication means or system or transmitter and/or receiver, for example using cell network triangulation. The geospatial positioning means may comprise any suitable means for determining a geospatial position or location.

The system may further comprise a data transfer means or element or module or component or device, for example a port, e.g. a USB or serial port, or a wireless transmitter, e.g. a radio or Bluetooth or Wifi transmittei, for transferring data from at least one of the memory means for review or analysis. Additionally or alternatively, the system may comprise a display for displaying data stored in or on at least one of the memory means.

One or more of the memory means mentioned herein may comprise a memory or memory element or module or component or device. The memory means may include vehicle identity data stored thereon, which may comprise details of the vehicle and/or of its owner or driver. Additionally or alternatively, the system may also comprise a subscriber identity module card, which may comprise details of the vehicle and/or of its owner or driver and/or of an identity and/or telephone number associated therewith. In some embodiments, the io vehicle identity data comprises the vehicle registration number and/or the vehicle identification number.

The system may further comprise a communication means, e.g. for communicating with the remote server and/or for transmitting or transferring data, for example vehicle identity data, is and/or at least some of the time data and/or the geospatial position data and/or the image data and/or the video data and/or the calculated total cost of a completed parking session.

The communication means may comprise a communication element or module or component or device and/or may include a wireless communication or telecommunication means or system or a transmitter or wireless transmitter or receiver or a wireless receiver.

Preferably, the communication means is operatively connected to the processor. More preferably, the system is configured or programmed to cause the communication means to transmit, e.g. on or after detection of a parking event, at least some of one or more of the vehicle identity data and/or the time data and/or the geospatial position data and/or the image data and/or the video data and/or the calculated total cost of a completed parking session, for example to a server or remote server. The system or communication means may also be configured to receive data, e.g. a calculated total cost of a completed parking session, for example from a server or remote server.

The system may further comprise a server, e.g. a remote server, which may comprise a server communication means, e.g. for receiving data from the vehicle communication means and/or for sending data to the vehicle communication means. The server communication means may comprise a communication element or module or component or device and/or may include a wireless communication or telecommunication means or system or a transmitter or wireless transmitter or receiver or a wireless receiver. The server may comprise a server processor and/or may be configured to calculate a total cost of a completed parking session, for example based on data received from the vehicle communication means. The server may further comprise a transaction means or element or module or component or device, e.g. for processing a transaction associated with the data received from the vehicle communication means and/or corresponding to the calculated total cost of a completed parking session.

In some embodiments, the server comprises one or more of the memory means on which the time data, geospatial position data and image data are stored and/or the or the further, e.g. second, memory means on which the database of information relating to the position or location of the vehicle is stored and/or the further, e.g. third, memory means or memory on which the database of biometric data is stored. Additionally or alternatively, the server may comprise a further, e.g. fourth, memory means, e.g. for storing at least some of the time data and/or geospatial position data and/or image data and/or the video data received by the server receiver or receiving means or component. The processor means may comprise the server processor. For example, the detected biometric data may be sent to is the server and/or the comparison of the detected biometric data with the database of biometric data may be performed by the server processor. Additionally or alternatively, the server may send the results of the comparison and/or details of the identified individual to the vehicle communication means.

In some embodiments, the server comprises a first, e.g. private or secure, server memory means and/or a second, e.g. non-private or non-sensitive or open or accessible or less secure or unsecured, server memory means. The server may be configured to store only part of the data, e.g. non-private or non-sensitive or non-personal data, received by the server communication means on the second server memory means. The server may additionally or alternatively be configured to store all or part of the data, e.g. sensitive or personal data and/or non-private or non-sensitive or non-personal data, received by the server communication means on the first server memory means.

The sensitive or personal data may comprise the image data and/or the video data, while the non-private or non-sensitive or personal data may comprise the time data and/or the geospatial position data, for example. Alternatively, the sensitive or personal data may comprise the image data and/or the video data and/or the time data and/or the geospatial position data, while the non-private or non-sensitive or personal data may comprise data derived from any of the aforementioned data and/or from the personal data, e.g. through processing of the data to provide one or more predetermined values or parameters indicative of the parking event or the rate and/or cost and/or fine and/or total cost associated with the parking event. The system may comprise a security means or protocol or element or component or module or program or sequence for selectively allowing access to the sensitive or personal data, for example by the driver or owner of the vehicle.

The detection means may be operable to generate one or more signals indicative of a detected or anticipated parking event, e.g. the beginning or initiation and/or the end or completion of a parking session. The detection means may be operable to send one or more or each of the generated signal or signals to the processor. The or one of the or each signal may correspond to a state of the engine or to a predetermined velocity or non-movement of or within the vehicle, e.g. during a predetermined time interval. The processor may be configured, e.g. on receipt of one or more of the signals to cause the system to carry out one or more of the aforementioned actions or steps.

In some embodiments, one or more of the detection means and/or the geospatial is positioning means and/or the image capture means and/or the memory means and/or the processor and/or the alert means is or are at least partially in, on, contained within, mounted or connected to, associated with, operatively connected to or associated with a housing.

Additionally or alternatively, one or more of the input means and/or detection means and/or the geospatial positioning means and/or the image capture means and/or the memory means and/or the processor is or are operatively connected to or at least partially incorporated within an onboard system, e.g. an information display and/or input system or an onboard computer or information or infotainment system, of the vehicle.

In embodiments, one or more of the detection means and/or the geospatial positioning means and/or the image capture means and/or the memory means and/or the processor and/or the alert means is or are operatively connected to or at least partially comprised or incorporated in a mobile device, which may be a telecommunications device or smart phone or tablet computer. The mobile device may comprise a software application or computer program configured to carry out one or more of the aforementioned actions or steps. The mobile device may be portable and/or associated with an individual within the vehicle.

Another aspect of the invention provides a method of monitoring the use of a vehicle, e.g. for determining compliance with parking rules, the method comprising the steps of: a) detecting a parking event associated with a vehicle; b) determining a geospatial position of the vehicle on or after detection of the parking event; c) optionally capturing an image relating to the location of the vehicle on or after detection of the parking event; and d) processing and/or storing data relating to the time, the geospatial position and optionally the image relating to the event, e.g. for later determination of compliance.

For the avoidance of doubt, any of the features described herein apply equally to any aspect of the invention. Moreover, the method may comprise one or more features or steps corresponding to, or that the skilled person would consider relevant to, any feature of the system described above or any feature relating to the use of such system.

The method may comprise retrieving, for example from the or a database, one or more parking rules associated with the determined geospatial position and/or determining, e.g. based on the one or more parking rules, whether the vehicle is permitted to park in the determined geospatial position. The method may further comprise retrieving, e.g. from the is or a database, a fine that may be associated with the determined geospatial position, for example if the vehicle is not permitted to park in the determined geospatial position.

Another aspect of the invention provides a method of monitoring the use of a vehicle, the method comprising the steps of: a) detecting a parking event associated with a vehicle; b) determining a geospatial position of the vehicle on or after detection of the parking event; c) retrieving from a database one or more parking rules associated with the determined geospatial position; d) determining based on the one or more parking rules whether the vehicle is permitted to park in the determined geospatial position; and e) retrieving from the database a fine associated with the determined geospatial position and/or notifying a driver of the vehicle of one or more alternative parking positions if the vehicle is not permitted to park in the determined geospatial position.

Preferably, the detecting step is carried out automatically and/or by a detection means associated with or mounted to the vehicle. More preferably, the determining step is carried out automatically and/or using a geospatial positioning means associated with or mounted to the vehicle. Most preferably, the capturing step is carried out automatically and/or using an image capture means associated with or mounted to the vehicle.

The detecting step may comprise detecting or anticipating the beginning or initiation and/or the end or completion of a parking session.

The method may further comprise the step of providing the driver with information relating to the position or location of the vehicle, for example the rate and/or cost and/or fine associated with parking in the detected position or location. Additionally or alternatively, the method may further comprise, for example before the providing step, the step of retrieving, e.g. from a database, information relating to the position or location of the vehicle, for example the rate and/or cost and/or fine associated with parking in the detected position or location.

Where the parking event comprises the beginning or initiation of a parking session, the method may comprise providing the driver with the information mentioned above and/or with a recommended alternative parking position or location, for example in or for or in is respect of which the rate and/or cost and/or fine is less than in the detected position.

The method may further comprise retrieving, e.g. from a database, a rate or cost or fine that may be associated with the determined geospatial position and/or a rate or cost or fine that may be associated with one or more alternative parking positions. The method may also comprise notifying a driver of the vehicle of the one or more alternative parking positions, for example if the rate or cost or fine associated therewith is less than that associated with the determined geospatial position.

Another aspect of the invention provides a method of monitoring the use of a vehicle, the method comprising the steps of: a) detecting a parking event associated with a vehicle; b) determining a geospatial position of the vehicle on or after detection of the parking event; c) retrieving from a database a rate or cost or fine associated with the determined geospatial position and a rate or cost or fine associated with an alternative parking position; and d) notifying a driver of the vehicle of the alternative parking position, for example if the rate or cost or fine associated therewith is less than that associated with the determined geospatial position.

The method may comprise notifying an authority and/or issuing or causing to be issued a penalty charge notice, which may reflect or relate to a fine relating to the parking session.

Another aspect of the invention provides a method of monitoring the use of a vehicle, the method comprising the steps of: a) detecting a parking event associated with a vehicle; b) determining a geospatial position of the vehicle on or after detection of the parking event; c) retrieving from a database one or more parking rules associated with the determined geospatial position; d) determining based on the one or more parking rules whether the vehicle is permitted to park in the determined geospatial position; and e) notifying an authority and/or issuing or causing to be issued a penalty charge notice if the vehicle is not permitted to park in the determined geospatial position.

The method may comprise issuing to the owner of the vehicle and/or to the registered address of or relating to the vehicle the penalty charge notice or a copy thereof. Additionally or alternatively, the penalty charge notice or a copy thereof may be issued electronically, for example to one or more digital addresses, e.g. an email address or telephone number, associated with the vehicle. The penalty charge notice may include information relating to the rights of the recipient, for example rights of appeal. The method may comprise instigating a transaction or payment.

The method may further comprise notifying a driver of the vehicle of the fine associated with the determined geospatial position.

The method may further comprise calculating the total cost of or fine relating to the parking session, for example on or after detection of an end or completion of a parking session.

The calculating step may be carried out by a processor in or on or associated with the vehicle or by a processor in or on or associated with a server, e.g. a remote server.

Where the parking event comprises the end or completion of a parking session, the method may comprise providing the driver with the total cost of or fine relating to the completed parking session.

The providing step may comprise providing a visual representation, for example using a display, and/or providing an audible alert or indication or statement or description, of the information.

The method may comprise capturing image data, e.g. one or more images, of or relating to one or more areas surrounding the vehicle, e.g. the front and/or rear and/or one or each or both sides thereof, and/or of or relating to an interior or contents or individuals, e.g. driver and/or passengers, of the vehicle.

Where the method comprises capturing image data relating to an interior of the vehicle, the method may further comprise comparing the captured image data with a database of biometric data using a comparison algorithm, for example a facial recognition algorithm.

Additionally or alternatively, the method may comprise detecting biometric data relating to one or more of fingerprints and/or DNA and/or retinal patterns and/or any other biometric is parameter or feature.

The method may further comprise capturing video data from the or a further image capture means. In some embodiments, the method comprises storing video data in a volatile memory means or memory, e.g. in a circular buffer, for example wherein the oldest data is overwritten with newer incoming data, e.g. such that a fixed and/or continuous length of video is stored. The method may comprise transferring, e.g. on or after detection of a parking event, the data stored in the volatile memory means or memory to a non-volatile memory means or memory, e.g. to the aforementioned memory means or memory.

The method may further comprise the step of transmitting from the vehicle, e.g. using a communication means thereof, for example to the or a server or remote server or a communication means thereof, at least some of the time data and/or the geospatial position data and/or the image data and/or the video data and/or the calculated total cost of or fine relating to a completed parking session.

Where the calculating step is carried out by the server or remote server, the method may further comprise transmitting by the server, e.g. using the communication means thereof, and/or receiving at the vehicle, e.g. using the communication means thereof, a calculated total cost of or fine relating to a completed parking session.

Another aspect of the invention provides a method of monitoring the use of a vehicle, the method comprising the steps of: a) detecting a parking event associated with a vehicle; b) detecting biometric data associated with one or more individuals in the vehicle, e.g. an individual operating or driving or attempting to park the vehicle c) determining a geospatial position of the vehicle on or after detection of the parking event; and d) associating the detected parking event and geospatial position data with the detected biometric data.

The method may comprise comparing the detected biometric data with a database of biometric data, for example in order to identify an individual corresponding to the detected biometric data. The method may comprise storing data relating to one or more parking events, for example together with one or more details of the identified individual or in one is or more folders associated with the identified individual. The data relating to one or more parking events may include any one or more of time data, geospatial position data, image data, one or more parking rules and/or violations thereof and/or the detected biometric data.

The method may further comprise compiling and/or storing data relating to two or more parking sessions, for example a plurality of parking sessions, associated with at least one vehicle identity or identified individual, e.g. on the or one of the or a further server memory means. The method may comprise calculating a total cost of two or more, e.g. a plurality, of completed parking sessions.

The method may comprise compiling and/or storing sending to an authority a parking profile associated with one or more identified individuals, which parking profile may include data relating to one or more parking events and/or details of the identified individual. The parking profile may include data relevant to one or more predetermined behaviours, for example factors determined to be relevant to one or more such behaviours. The data relating to one or more parking events or the parking profile may be sent to an authority at the end of each parking event or at regular, e.g. predetermined, time intervals.

The method may comprise analysing at least pad of one or more parking profiles, e.g. at least some of the data relating to one or more parking events of the one or more parking profiles, against or according to a behaviour matrix. The behaviour matrix may comprise a plurality of behaviour factors each having a predetermined weighting for converting the parking profile to a behaviour profile or behaviour value. Preferably, the method comprises extracting from a parking profile data relating to one or more or each of the behaviour factors and selecting or generating or calculating a behaviour profile or behaviour value based on the data.

The method may further comprise processing a transaction associated with the or one or more, for example two or more, e.g. the or a plurality of, parking event(s) or session(s). The transaction processing step may be carried out or initiated by the server or remote server, for example on receipt of data relating to the end or completion of a parking session.

io Additionally or alternatively, the transaction processing step may be carried out or initiated by the server or remote server after a predetermined time interval, e.g. on a weekly or monthly or bi-monthly or tn-monthly or semi-annual or annual basis.

The method may further comprise storing on the or one of the or a further server memory is means at least some of the time data and/or geospatial position data and/or image data and/or the video data and/or calculated cost data.

The data may comprise sensitive or personal data, for example at least the image data and/or the video data may be classed as sensitive or personal, and/or non-private or non-sensitive or non-personal data, for example the time data and/or the geospatial position data and/or the cost data or data derived from any of the aforementioned data may be classed as non-private or non-sensitive or non-personal data. The storing step may comprise storing at least part, e.g. all, of the data, e.g. sensitive or personal and/or non-private or non-sensitive or non-personal data, on or in a first or private or secure memory or memory means or component or part or segment.

The storing step may further comprise storing part, e.g. only part, of the data, for example non-private or non-sensitive or non-personal data, e.g. only non-private or non-sensitive or non-personal data, on a second or non-private or non-sensitive or open or accessible or less secure or unsecured memory or memory means or component or part or segment.

The method may further comprise reviewing data stored on the memory means, for example using a display. Additionally or alternatively, the method may further comprise transferring the data from the memory means for review or analysis.

Another aspect of the invention provides a controller configured or programmed to execute the aforementioned method and/or for incorporation into the aforementioned system.

A further aspect of the invention provides a computer program element comprising computer readable program code means for causing a processor to execute a procedure to implement the aforementioned method. A yet further aspect of the invention provides the computer program element embodied on a computer readable medium.

A yet further aspect of the invention provides a computer readable medium having a program stored thereon, where the program is arranged to make a computer execute a procedure to implement the aforementioned method.

Another aspect of the invention provides a vehicle comprising a system as described above and/or a controller as described above and/or a computer readable medium as described is above.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a schematic view of a monitoring system according to one embodiment of the invention; Figure 2 is a schematic of the control unit of the system of Figure 1; and Figure 3 is a schematic flow diagram illustrating a method according to one embodiment of the invention.

Referring now to Figures 1 and 2, there is shown a monitoring system 1 for determining compliance with parking rules. The system 1 includes a control unit 2 and image capture means 3 both associated with or mounted to a vehicle 4 and a remote server 5 for communication with the control unit 2.

The control unit 2 in this embodiment includes a telecommunication module 20 with an associated subscriber identity module card 21, a detection module 22, a geospatial positioning module 23, a memory module 24, a processor 25, all of which are contained within a housing 26. The control unit 2 also includes a transmission antenna 27, which is connected to the telecommunication module 20, and an accelerometer 28 for detecting acceleration and/or deceleration of the vehicle. In other embodiments, the control unit 2 may include a vibration sensor (not shown) for detecting operation of the engine.

The subscriber identity module card 21 includes identification details for the vehicle, the owner of the vehicle and a telephone number. The detection module 22 is operatively connected to the vehicle's engine management system (not shown), for detecting operation of the engine. In this embodiment, the detection module 22 is also connected to the image capture means 3 for detecting movement and/or the presence or absence of a driver or passengers (not shown). It will be appreciated that the image capture means 3 need not be operatively connected to the detection module 22 and in some embodiments it may be omitted altogether. The geospatial positioning module 23 is operatively connected by cables to four global positioning system (GPS) devices 23a, which are positioned adjacent the four corners of the vehicle in this embodiment, although the cables may be replaced by is a wireless connection. The memory module 24 includes a first, non-volatile memory 24a and a second, volatile memory 24b. In this embodiment, the memory module 24 also stores databases of parking locations and associated parking rules, rates and fines and biometric data relating to authorised drivers of the vehicle 4. Such databases are copies of master databases stored on the remote server 5 and used only in the case of a failure of the telecommunication module 20 to connect to the server 5, for example upon detection of a parking event within a multi-story car park in which no telecommunication signal is available.

Each of the telecommunication module 20, detection module 22, geospatial positioning module 23, memory module 24, first memory 24a and second memory 24b is operatively connected to the processor 25.

The image capture means 3 includes an internal camera 30 a pair of forward facing cameras 31, a pair of rearward facing cameras 32 and four side facing cameras 33 adjacent the four corners of the vehicle 4. The internal camera 30 is mounted within the housing of the rearview mirror of the vehicle 4 in this embodiment and is configured to capture image and/or video data relating to the driver (not shown) and passengers (not shown). The forward, rear and side facing cameras 31, 32, 33 are each configured to capture image and/or video data of respective areas surrounding the vehicle. Each of the cameras 30, 31, 32, 33 incorporates a wide angled lens and is operatively connected to the control unit 2 by cables in this embodiment, although these cables may be replaced by a wireless connection. In this embodiment, the system 1 is configured to capture and store video data from each camera 30, 31, 32, 33 in the volatile memory 24b in a circular buffer, wherein the oldest data is overwritten with newer incoming data so that a fixed and continuous length of video is stored corresponding to the most recent sixty second rolling period.

The monitoring system 1 is operatively connected to the controller area network (CAN) bus system (not shown) of the vehicle 4 in this embodiment. The vehicle 4 includes an onboard infotainment system 40 and an engine management system (not shown), both of which are operatively connected to the monitoring system 1 for interacting with and presenting information to the driver and/or passengers of the vehicle and for detecting the operation of the engine and/or the ignition.

The remote server 5 includes a telecommunication module 50, a memory module 51, a processor 52, a transmission antenna 53 operatively connected to the telecommunications module 50 for sending and/or receive data. The memory module 51 includes a first, private is or secure memory 54 and a second, non-private memory 55 on which is stored the master databases of parking locations and associated parking rules, rates and fines and biometric data relating to authorised drivers of the vehicle 4. The remote server 5 also includes a transaction module 56 for processing payment transactions for detected parking sessions.

The telecommunication module 50, memory module 51, first memory 54, second memory 55 and the transaction module 56 are all operatively connected to the processor 52.

As illustrated in Figure 3, the system 1 functions according to the following steps on initiation of a parking session when the driver (not shown) parks the vehicle 4 in a particular location: a) the detection module 22 detects the start of a parking session, for example by detection of the engine being switched off or detection of non-movement of or within the vehicle 4 during a predetermined period of time; b) the geospatial positioning module 23 determines the geospatial position of the vehicle; c) the system 1 retrieves from the memory module 24 a rate or fine associated with the determined geospatial position and a rate or fine associated with a plurality of alternative parking positions; d) the infotainment system 40 presents the driver with the alternative parking positions together with their associated rates or fines; e) the driver is then able to either continue the parking session or to restart the engine and drive to one of the alternative parking positions; f) if the driver continues the parking session, for example if the detection module 22 fails to detect the engine starting or fails to detect movement of or within the vehicle within a predetermined period of time, the image capture means 3 captures images of the surroundings of the vehicle 4 and optionally an image of the driver and passengers; g) the time, the geospatial position and the images relating to the start of the parking session are stored in the memory module 24; and h) the vehicle identification, time and geospatial position data and the images are transmitted via the vehicle telecommunication module 20 to the remote server 5, io received by the server telecommunication module 50 and stored in the first, private or secure memory 54 of the memory module 51.

Similarly, on completion of a parking session, the driver turns the engine on and drives away, at which point the detection module 22 detects the completion of the parking session is and repeats steps f) to h) above. The serverS then calculates the total cost of the parking session using the information received, sends the details of the total cost to the vehicle telecommunication module 20 and stores the total cost together with the vehicle identification data on the second, non-private memory 55 of the memory module 51.

In this embodiment, the server 5 is configured to compile a log of parking sessions associated with each vehicle 4 throughout each calendar month. At the end of the calendar month, the server 5 causes the transaction module 56 to initiate a transaction associated with the list of parking sessions associated with each vehicle 4. The transactions are processed using the non-private data stored in the second, non-private memory 55 relating to the list of parking sessions, while the personal data stored on the first, private or secure memory 54 of the memory module 51 is only accessible by or with the permission of an authorised person, for example the driver or owner of the vehicle 4. As an example, this personal data may be retained for a period of six months.

The server 5 in this embodiment is also configured to issue a penalty charge notice automatically if the vehicle is not permitted to park in the determined geospatial position.

The penalty charge notice is issued to the owner of the vehicle at the registered address of the vehicle. In addition, an electronic copy of the penalty charge notice is issued electronically to the subscriber using an electronic address associated with the subscriber identity module card 21. The penalty charge notice includes information relating to the right of appeal and all other necessary statutory information. In this embodiment, the issuing of a penalty charge notice instigates a transaction via the transaction module 56, but it is also envisaged that conventional means are used, for example in order to adhere to statutory requirements, e.g. to give the recipient the opportunity to appeal without paying the fine.

The information stored in the vehicle memory module 24 enables the driver or owner of the vehicle 4 to review all evidence relating to any particular parking session and, if desired, to contest a particular cost or rate or fine imposed as a result of the parking session. The data stored on the first, private or secure memory 54 of the memory module 51, which is effectively a duplicate of that which is stored on the vehicle memory module 24, may be used to corroborate independently any assertions made by the driver or owner of the vehicle 4 in such circumstances.

In this embodiment, the detection module 22 is configured to delay the detection of the start of the parking session for a predetermined period of time, for example two minutes. If the is driver (not shown) remains in the vehicle 4, which is determined by the internal camera 31, a warning is given via the infotainment system 40 that the parking session will commence after a predetermined period of time, for example five minutes after the engine is switched off. If the driver (not shown) remains within the vehicle 4 after the period has elapsed, then the parking session is considered to have started. The system 1 is also configured to detect the start of a parking session despite the engine continuing to run after the vehicle 4 has been stationary for a predetermined period of time, for example ten minutes.

The system 1 is configured to alert or inform the driver, on detection of the switching off of the engine, of the rate and/or cost and/or fine associated with parking in the detected position as well as in other, alternative adjacent locations that are less expensive. The system 1 is also configured to alert or inform the driver of the total cost of the parking session on detection of the completion of the parking session.

The infotainment system 40 is configured to enable the driver to enter one or more criteria for selecting the alternative parking positions. The criteria may include a distance from the determined geospatial position or one or more features of the alternative parking position or of a car park associated therewith, for example opening times and/or the owner or operator and/or minimum space size and/or one or more security features such as whether it is lit and/or manned and/or one or more other features.

In this embodiment, the driver is able to activate a parking information function on the infotainment system 40 as the vehicle 4 approaches a parking space. This function provides the driver with information relating to the rate and/or cost and/or fine associated with parking in nearby locations and enables the most cost effective selection of parking positions before selecting a parking position. This information is retrieved from the aforementioned database on the memory module 24. However, the definitive parking rates/costs/fines are those which are maintained on the server 5.

As explained above, the video data captured from each of the cameras 30, 31, 32, 33 and to store the video data in the second, volatile memory 24b in a circular buffer, wherein the oldest data is overwritten with newer incoming data such that a fixed, continuous length of video is stored. When a parking event is detected, the video data stored in the volatile memory 24b is transferred to the first, non-volatile memory 24a together with time data relating to the video data. The system 1 also continues to capture video data from each of the cameras 30, 31, 32, 33 for an additional predetermined period of time, for example one minute. The video data is also transmitted to the serverS and stored in the first, private or secure memory 54 of the memory module 51.

The system 1 can also be configured to compare image data captured by the internal camera 30 with a database of biometric data stored in the vehicle memoiy module 24 using a facial recognition algorithm. The results of the comparison may be stored in the vehicle memory module 24 and/or the server memory module 51 and/or may be used to alert the authorities of unauthorised use of the vehicle or for evidence of such use. Additionally or alternatively, the biometric data may be used to compile a parking profile associated with the individual identified. In such cases, data relating to parking events may be associated with the identified individual and/or transactions may be carried out based on an account associated with the identified individual. Other features may also be incorporated in the system 1 as described above.

It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that several variations to the aforementioned embodiments are envisaged without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, the image capture means 3 may be disabled or omitted. Additionally or alternatively, the system may include a vibration sensor and/or accelerometer positioned to detect whether the engine is in operation and/or the or a further geospatial positioning means may be configured to detect non-movement of the vehicle during a predetermined time interval. The alert need not be provided through the infotainment system 40, e.g. the system 1 may include a standalone display or audible alert device.

Moreover, the geospatial location of the vehicle may be determined using a cellular communication means or system instead of a global positioning system using satellites, for example using cell network triangulation. It will also be appreciated that any of the aforementioned periods of time may be altered according to the requirements of any particular application.

Furthermore, the memory module 24 need not store copies of master databases containing parking locations and associated parking rules, rates and fines and biometric data relating to authorised drivers of the vehicle 4. It is envisaged that the system 1 communicates with the server 5 to access the master databases directly. In such cases, the system 1 may be configured to anticipate entry into an area of no reception, e.g. a multi-story car park, and is to access the databases in advance of such entry. Other arrangements are also envisaged.

It will also be appreciated by those skilled in the art that any number of combinations of the aforementioned features and/or those shown in the appended drawings provide clear advantages over the prior art and are therefore within the scope of the invention described herein.

Claims

CLAIMS1. A monitoring system for determining compliance with parking rules, the system comprising: a) detection means associated with a vehicle for detecting a parking event associated therewith; b) geospatial positioning means associated with the vehicle for determining a geospatial position thereof; c) memory means on which is stored a database of parking rules and fines associated with each of a plurality of different geospatial locations; and d) a processing means operatively connected to the detection means, the geospatial positioning means and the memory means; wherein the system is configured, on or after detection of a parking event by the detection means, to determine a geospatial position of the vehicle using the geospatial positioning means, to retrieve from the database one or more parking rules associated with the determined geospatial position, to determine based on the one or more parking rules whether the vehicle is permitted to park in the determined geospatial position and if the vehicle is not permitted to park in the determined geospatial position to retrieve from the database a fine associated with the determined geospatial position and/or to notify a driver of the vehicle of one or more of the alternative parking positions.
2. System according to claim 1, wherein the database comprises one or more rates and/or costs and/or fines associated with parking at each of a plurality of different geospatial locations, the system being configured to retrieve from the database a rate or cost or fine associated with the determined geospatial position and a rate or cost or fine associated with one or more alternative parking positions and to notify a driver of the vehicle of one or more of the alternative parking positions if the rate or cost or fine associated therewith is less than that associated with the determined geospatial position.
3. System according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the system is configured to apply one or more criteria for identifying the one or more alternative parking positions.
4. System according to claim 3 further comprising an input means for entering or selecting one or more of the criteria and/or for entering or submifting information relating to one or more geospatial locations if the information is missing from the database.
5. System according to any preceding claim, wherein the system is configured to notify an authority and/or to issue or to cause to be issued a penalty charge notice if the vehicle is not permitted to park in the determined geospatial position.
6. System according to any preceding claim further comprising an image capture means associated with the vehicle and operatively connected to the processor for capturing image data relating to the location of the vehicle, wherein the system is configured to process and/or store in the memory means, on or after detection of a parking event by the detection means, data relating to the parking event including time data, geospatial position data determined by the geospatial positioning means and image data captured by the image capture means.
7. System according to any preceding claim further comprising biometric data detection means associated with the vehicle for detecting biometric data associated with an individual operating the vehicle, wherein the system is configured, on or after detection of a parking event by the detection means, to detect biometric data associated with one or more individuals in the vehicle using the biometric data detection means, to determine a geospatial position of the vehicle using the geospatial positioning means and to associate the detected parking event and geospatial position data with the detected biometric data.
8. System according to claim 7 comprising a further memory means on which is stored a database of biometric data associated with one or more individuals, wherein the system is configured to compare the detected biometric data with the database of biometric data in order to identify an individual corresponding to the detected biometric data.
9. System according to claim 8, wherein the system is configured to compile a parking profile associated with one or more identified individuals, the parking profile including data relating to one or more parking events.
10. System according to any preceding claim further comprising a communication means for communicating with a remote server.
11. System according to claim 10 further comprising a remote server with a server communication means for receiving data from the vehicle communication means and/or for sending data to the vehicle communication means.
12. System according to claim 11, wherein the server comprises the memory means and/or the further memory means.
13. System according to claim 11, wherein the memory means is mounted or mountable to the vehicle and the server comprises a further, server memory means.
14. System according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the server is configured to calculate a total cost or fine of or relating to a completed parking session based on data received from the vehicle communication means.
15. System according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the server further comprises a transaction means for processing a transaction associated with the data received from the vehicle communication means.
16. System according to any preceding claim, wherein the detection means is configured to detect an operational state of an engine of the vehicle and/or non-movement of the vehicle.
17. System according to any preceding claim further comprising an alert means for providing the driver with information relating to one or more of the rate and/or cost and/or fine associated with parking in the detected position or location and/or a recommended alternative parking position or location.
18. System according to claim 17, wherein the alert means comprises a display and/or an audible device for providing a visual representation and/or audible alert or indication or statement or description of at least part of the information.
19. System according to any preceding claim comprising image capture means at least part of which is positioned or positionable to capture one or more images of an interior of the vehicle.
20. System according to claim 19, wherein the system further comprises a facial recognition algorithm and is configured to compare one or more characteristics of a captured image of an individual or driver with a database of biometric data in order to identify an individual corresponding to the image.
21. System according to claim 20, wherein the system is configured to suppress or mask part of the data relating to one or more passengers to preserve the anonymity or privacy of one or more of the passengers.
22. System according to any preceding claim, wherein the system is configured to capture and store video data from the or an image capture means in a volatile memory means in a circular buffer.
23. System according to claim 22, wherein the system is configured or programmed to transfer on detection of a parking event, the data stored in the volatile memory means to a non-volatile memory means.
24. System according to any preceding claim, wherein the geospatial positioning means comprises two or more global positioning modules or devices or receivers.
25. A method of monitoring the use of a vehicle, the method comprising the steps of: a) detecting a parking event associated with a vehicle; b) determining a geospatial position of the vehicle on or after detection of the parking event; c) retrieving from a database one or more parking rules associated with the determined geospatial position; d) determining based on the one or more parking rules whether the vehicle is permitted to park in the determined geospatial position; and e) retrieving from the database a fine associated with the determined geospatial position and/or notifying a driver of the vehicle of one or more alternative parking positions if the vehicle is not permitted to park in the determined geospatial position.
26. Method according to claim 25 further comprising retrieving from the or a further database a rate or cost or fine associated with the determined geospatial position and a rate or cost or fine associated with one or more alternative parking positions and notifying a driver of the vehicle of the one or more alternative parking positions if the rate or cost or fine associated therewith is less than that associated with the determined geospatial position.
27. Method according to claim 25 or claim 26 further comprising notifying an authority and/or issuing or causing to be issued a penalty charge notice if the vehicle is not permitted to park in the determined geospatial position.
28. Method according to any one of claims 25 to 27 further comprising capturing an image relating to the location of the vehicle on or after detection of the parking event and processing and/or storing data relating to the time, the geospatial position and the image data relating to the event.
29. Method according to any one of claims 25 to 28 further comprising detecting biometric is data associated with an individual operating the vehicle and associating the detected parking event and geospatial position data with the detected biometric data.
30. Method according to claim 29 further comprising comparing the detected biometric data with a database of biometric data in order to identify an individual corresponding to the detected biometric data.
31. Method according to claim 30 further comprising compiling a parking profile associated with one or more identified individuals, the parking profile including data relating to one or more parking events.
32. Method according to any one of claims 25 to 31, wherein the parking event comprises the initiation or completion of a parking session.
33. Method according to claim 32 further comprising calculating the total cost of the parking session if the detected or anticipated parking event comprises the completion of a parking session.
34. Method according to claim 33 further comprising providing the driver with information including the calculated total cost or fine of or associated with the parking session if the detected or anticipated parking event comprises the completion of a parking session.
35. Method according to any one of claims 25 to 34 further comprising compiling data relating to two or more parking sessions associated with at least one vehicle identity or identified individual.
36. Method according to claim 34 further comprising processing a transaction for the calculated total cost of the parking session.
37. Method according to claim 35 further comprising processing a transaction for a io calculated total cost of the two or more parking sessions.
38. A computer program element comprising computer readable program code means for causing a processor to execute a procedure to implement a method according to any one of claims 24 to 33.
39. A computer program element according to claim 34 embodied on a computer readable medium.
40. A computer readable medium having a program stored thereon, where the program is arranged to make a computer execute a procedure to implement a method according to any one of claims 24 to 33.
41. A vehicle comprising a monitoring system according to any one of claims 1 to 24 or a computer readable medium according to claim 40.