SE502406C2 - Vehicle control information system - Google Patents

Abstract

An information system comprising a common centre (1) for storing data in terms of map information and for processing and generating data in the form of navigating instructions for a vehicle (9) and which comprises a register (3) of telephone numbers with correlated addresses and geographical coordinates by which origins and destinations are determined on basis of telephone numbers. Said information system further comprises terminals (5, 6, 12) communicating with the common centre (1) which in vehicles (9) comprise a radio communication device with means for presentation and in which vehicles (9) a device (10) is also present for determining the vehicles' positions in terms of geographical coordinates, and a device (8) in which input data from input means belonging to the terminal (12) are added together with the vehicle position data. On the basis of input data in terms of telephone numbers, given using the terminals' input means and transmitted to the common centre (1) together with the vehicle position data, current positions in terms of addresses and geographical coordinates correlated to said telephone numbers can be determined and together with the transmitted vehicle position data be used as destination and origins when the common centre (1) generates navigational instructions for the vehicles (9). Said navigational instructions are transmitted back to the terminals (12) placed in the vehicles where they are temporarily stored in the device (8) for adding together input data in order to be presented by the means for presentation dependent on the vehicle position.

Description

502 .406 10 15 20 25 30 is constantly affected by the traffic picture. By the vehicle communicating its position to a central computer, the information can be forwarded to a command center for the vehicle fleet.

Several navigation assistance systems are known. International patent application WO 92/10808 describes, for example, a travel planning system in which travel data is transmitted via a radio connection from a "central" to a computer located in a vehicle for generating travel instructions.

Another example of a known navigation aid system is described in European patent application EP 0 345 818. This system comprises a centrally located computer for road planning and a large number of short-distance links for communication with the vehicles.

Common to the known systems is that no standardized equipment for the systems exists, but each system requires its specific stationary equipment and special vehicle terminals, with varying degrees of laborious destination input. In-vehicle route planning systems based on map databases also suffer from a lack of digital maps, and require individual updating.

The systems cannot normally be used for locating mobile devices.

There is thus a need for a general information system for controlling vehicles through which one can in a cost-effective way receive current navigation assistance and where users can easily enter destinations and through which vehicles can be located. The equipment specific to the system required for the users must also be easy to install and use. DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The above object is achieved by an information system according to the present invention, the features of which are set out in the appended claim 1.

The information system is based on a common data processing center for vehicle control, with the unique feature that telephone numbers can be translated into positions in the form of addresses and geographical coordinates. In this way, positions and destinations can be specified in the form of telephone numbers and input data to the information system can be provided via simple numeric keypads on faxes and mobile phones, which opens up completely new possibilities for ordering and presenting a number of new services from such terminals.

DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES Figure 1 shows a schematic view of an information system according to the invention.

PREFERRED EMBODIMENT In the following, the invention will be described in connection with Figure 1.

The information system comprises a common exchange (1), which includes a processor (2) with routines / software for route planning and a database (3), which includes map information and telephone numbers / address registers. The public exchange is connected to the public telephone network (PTN) (4). Through the public telecommunications network, the common exchange is connected to various terminals, e.g. data terminals (5), fax equipment (6) and, via a mobile telephone system (7), with terminals (12) in vehicles (9).

The vehicles also include equipment (10) through which information from a position-determining system (11) can be utilized. The term "terminal" used above is used as a common term for various devices for communication with the common exchange and may, as stated above, consist of data terminals, fax equipment, telephones, mobile telephones, etc.

The Joint Center (1) is an important component of the information system. Via the telecommunications network, its database (3) can be constantly updated with regard to the traffic situation, road works, movement of telecommunications numbers, etc., whereby current conditions are always used in travel planning.

In the public exchange (1), a telephone number can be translated to the subscriber's address by means of the database (3), which in turn can be translated into geographical coordinates.

The word telephone number in this context refers to telephone numbers, numbers for data terminals and faxes, numbers for Indata for positions and destinations, mobile phones etc. the information system can thus arbitrarily be a telephone number for a specific subscriber, the subscriber's address or corresponding geographical coordinates. For telephone numbers relating to mobile devices, however, for easy-to-understand reasons, the subscriber's address cannot be used as a position.

From a fax (6), which through the public telephone network (4) is connected to the common exchange (1) and whose position is defined by its telephone number, you can order and obtain a route plan or directions comprising one or more destinations specified in the form of telephone number. The itinerary or directions are then obtained on paper that can be carried during transport.

Correspondingly, a route plan or directions based on destination information in the form of telephone numbers provided via the data terminal to the common exchange (1) can be ordered from a stationary data terminal (5). The result of the work of the Joint Central Office is transferred to the computer terminal where it is presented on the computer screen or temporarily stored for later use.

Destinations can also be specified as a telephone number from a terminal (12) in a vehicle (9). The terminal can in this case be a mobile phone or a data terminal which, for example, is part of the MOBITEX system. As the common exchange's database does not always contain the current position of the mobile terminal, this must be given directly in the form of geographical coordinates. These coordinates can be obtained, for example, from a GPS receiver (10) (Global Positioning System) in the vehicle or from any other positioning system.

A new type of standardized equipment for the use of future services in road transport informatics is placed in the vehicle (9). This equipment, hereinafter referred to as vehicle unit (8), consists of a microcomputer with memory to which the GPS receiver (10) with antenna is connected.

Furthermore, the vehicle unit is connected to a GSM telephone and is provided with a data connection, an alarm input and a connection for power supply. The GPS receiver and the vehicle unit can of course be integrated in one unit.

The vehicle unit's (8) software is designed so that in the vehicle the GSM telephone keypad, display and audio part can be used for input, display and reproduction of data, as well as its radio part for data communication with the common exchange (1) via the mobile telephone system (7) and the public telecommunications network (4). Furthermore, the software can automatically store away ongoing timetable activities in the event of normal use of the GSM phone, and re-establish these when the call is over. Data in and out via the data connection can also be communicated further via the GSM telephone. The software specific to the information system can be transferred to the vehicle unit from the common exchange via the vehicle's GSM telephone in connection with 502 ”406 10 15 20 25 30 with installation.

The vehicle unit (8) requires no exposure or direct access in the driver's environment but can be mounted freely and in the simplest way. By using established systems such as GSM, the vehicle equipment becomes relatively cheap and easy to install.

The data terminal (5) can, for example, be located at a company whose vehicles are to be routed to different destinations. From the data terminal, you can communicate via modem with the vehicle's terminal (12) for reporting to and from the vehicles. All manual entry into the information system that can take place in the vehicle can also be made directly via the data terminal (5). The data terminal can thus communicate directly with the common exchange, which, if the flight plan affects a large number of destinations, facilitates entry.

The use of the information system to create roadmaps will now be described in more detail. The term travel planning in this context refers to a determination of the appropriate order for a number of destinations based on the vehicle's starting point. Furthermore, the respective road distance and travel time between these destinations are calculated. Various travel planning software is commercially available.

Via the terminal (12) (GSM telephone) in the vehicle (9), one or more destinations can be entered in the form of a telephone number, in order to be transmitted together with the vehicle's current GPS coordinates to the public exchange via a preset telephone number. In the joint center, the order of the destinations is optimized, whereby the current position is also regarded as the final destination, unless otherwise stated. the information is then returned to the vehicle and presented LH c: m .få f: C \ is presented in register form via the GSM telephone display, which may comprise two lines of twelve characters. For two destinations, the process can be as follows: 1) Line 1 shows the telephone number to the first destination and line 2 indicates road distance and forecast travel time from the starting point. 2) Line 1 shows the telephone number to the second destination and line 2 indicates the road distance and forecast travel time from the first destination. 3) Line 1 shows the starting point and line 2 indicates road distance and forecast travel time from the other destination.

Guidance (see below) can then be ordered based on the recommended order.

If the number of destinations is large, the route planning can, as previously mentioned, take place by means of a fixed data terminal (5) in communication with the common exchange (1). In addition to the previously mentioned information, the destinations' full address as well as accumulated road sections and travel times are also shown here. The order can later be transmitted to the vehicle terminals via the public telephone network and GSM.

The guidance itself is then called from the vehicle as above.

Route planning can also be obtained via fax. Telephone numbers to the desired destinations and starting point, if other than the fax, are then entered via the fax keypad and the public exchange responds with a roadmap which is obtained on paper and which can be carried in the vehicle. The roadmap contains the same information as is obtained through the fixed data terminals.

The previously mentioned guidance here relates to a detailed description of the route to one or more destinations from the starting point of the vehicle. the guidance is ordered from the common exchange via a preset telephone number and transmitted to the vehicle (9) where it is stored in the vehicle unit (8). It is also possible to store information about the vehicle's dimensions, weight and goods for the benefit of the route chosen in the joint center. the guide contains the names or numbers of all the roads and streets of the journey, as well as the coordinates of all intersections where turns must take place and the distance between them. If the distance exceeds one mile, additional coordinates are given with this division. Furthermore, the coordinates are given a bit in on all exit roads that are to be passed or deselected. In addition, the destination address, the road distance to it and a forecast for the end time of the journey are stated, which is based on sub-forecasts at each turn or each mile.

To present the guide via the GSM phone's display, its two lines of twelve characters can be used as follows: A) During travel, line 1 shows the current road or street name (12 first characters). Line 2 shows the current road distance to the destination and the forecast end time.

B) Before turning, line J. shows the next road or street. Row 2 shows a number of flashing arrows to the right (>>>>>>) or left, one arrow for every 50 meters to the intersection.

C) When turning, line 1 shows the next road or street. Line 2 shows a solid lined arrow to the right (----->) or left.

D) Within 100 meters from the destination, and if no turns remain, lines 1 and 2 show the road or street address in its entirety.

E) If you turn wrong or forget to turn, line 2 shows an e-mail message and the buzzer sounds 10 15 20 25 30 502 406. Only when you are on your way back to the intersection does the display change to one of the previous alternatives.

When the arrows start flashing, the buzzer also sounds for a short while. If the "Hands-Free" function is activated, a synthetic voice can also indicate "Hold-right" when the arrows start flashing and "Turn-right" when only one arrow is left. How far from the intersection the arrows start flashing depends on the speed of the vehicle. At 130 km / h the process can start with twelve arrows and for 30 km / h with two arrows.

Guidance / directions can also be obtained via fax.

Telephone numbers to desired destinations and starting points, if other than the fax, are then entered via the fax keypad and the public exchange responds with directions which are obtained on paper and can be carried in the vehicle. The directions include the names of all the roads and streets of the journey, as well as the road section and forecast travel time between all turns. In addition, the destination address and total road distance and forecast travel time are stated.

The guidance can also include marking of all open tank and food places along recommended national and European roads. Furthermore, all tolls are included along these roads. Warning can be given at an adjustable distance, whereby the buzzer sounds and the GSM phone display shows the following: F) Line 1 shows TANK, FOOD or TANK & FOOD. Row 2 shows the road distance to this destination and the road distance to the following tank and / or restaurant.

G) Line 1 shows TARIFF. Line 2 shows road distance to this destination as well as the current toll. 502 406 10 15 20 25 30 IO Future tolls will be of the free-flow type and, regardless of the charging system, these tolls must be equipped with cameras for identifying registration numbers for vehicles that cannot be charged in the usual way. By the toll operators providing telephone numbers for debiting, this can be done via the vehicle after information from the joint exchange.

Each time the vehicle's engine is stopped, the current date, time, GPS coordinates and distance from the previous stop are stored in the vehicle unit. This creates a basis for a logbook. The driver can choose to store the information under different accounts (0-9) to distinguish, for example, private driving (0) and driving for different customers, etc. When the driver so wishes, the stored information can be transferred to the public exchange via a preset telephone number. In the common exchange, the GPS coordinates are translated to the nearest road or street address and for each account a driving log is generated containing dates, times, addresses and driving distances. Apart from the urban area, the address is given by the name of the road with distance and direction from, as well as the name of, the nearest intersecting road.

The Joint Center may acknowledge these transfers by transmitting to the vehicle and storing in the VU the GPS coordinates of existing regional or national tolls. In this way, the passage of such can also be registered and presented in the logbook.

The driving records in the form of data lists are then sent directly by letter to the GSM subscriber and can be used by him as an accounting document. This presupposes that the vehicle's registration number has been stored in the vehicle unit for reproduction in the logbook. For account O, only the total mileage and the number of toll passages are stated, which is why this account can be used for private driving. 10 15 20 25 30 H Location of vehicles included in the information system can be ordered via the common exchange via GSM telephone or fax, whereby the vehicle's telephone number is entered via the GSM telephone or fax keypad. With the help of the vehicle's telephone number, the public switchboard can find the vehicle's most recently registered position and translate its GPS coordinates to the current road or street name with distance and direction from, and name 'on, nearest intersecting road or street. Furthermore, the common control panel determines the direction of travel of the vehicle by comparing the most recently stored GPS coordinates, which have been transmitted from the vehicle. Position and direction of travel were then sent in the form of a text message to the GSM telephone Service) or fax. Location can not be done when (Short Message travel registration is set for private driving (account 0).

Modern vehicles are increasingly equipped with airbags and associated crash sensors, whose electrical signal can also affect the vehicle unit (8) so that an alarm message is sent to the common exchange (1) via a preset telephone number. Here you then receive information about the vehicle's GPS coordinates and can identify the GSM subscriber based on the vehicle terminal's telephone number.

If the vehicle's registration number, dimensions, weight and goods have been stored in the vehicle unit, this information is also obtained.

The information is compiled, whereby the GPS coordinates are translated to a position and direction of travel, similar to the location above, after which the nearest affected control center is notified.

From vehicles that follow the guidance routine and have stored information on dangerous goods in the vehicle unit, a message can be sent to the common exchange before tunnel entry and after tunnel exit, via a preset telephone number. One minute before the estimated entrance and one minute after the exit, these messages are sent which contain the same information as the alarm message. If the exit receipt has not arrived after a certain time for a certain tunnel, the nearest affected alarm center will be notified.

The possibility of data communication via GSM is limited to 9.6 kbps, which in practice limits the amount of data to the vehicle terminals unless long waiting times are to occur.

In normal use, the decidedly largest amount of data is transferred from the common exchange in connection with guidance and a maximum estimate of this flow is given by the following: * The guidance comprises 1000 intersections or nodes.

* Each node is described by 4 coordinate sets with 8 digits for longitude and latitude, ie 8 numbers of 8 digits (<30 bits), which coded gives 240 bits.

* Each path or link between these 1000 nodes is described by 12 characters (<100 bits) and 2 numbers of 4 digits (<15 bits) for distance and time, which coded gives 130 bits.

In total, a total amount of data of 370 kbit is obtained, which is transmitted in less than 40 seconds at the speed of 9.6 kbps. Although the communication protocol does not allow more than 4.8 kbps, the transmission time for this very comprehensive guide is acceptable. Transmission of driving logs to the common exchange and above all.installationenznr software in the vehicle unit can of course mean significantly larger amounts of data, but in these cases long transfer times are also easy to accept. 582 406 ß The invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments but can be varied within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (9)

1., 5o2ö4oe 10 15 20 25 30 IH PATENT REQUIREMENTS 1. Information systems comprising a common central (1) for storing data in the form of map information and for processing and generating data in the form of instructions for driving vehicles (9) and which comprises a register (3) of telephone numbers with associated addresses and geographical coordinates through which starting points and destinations are determined on the basis of telephone numbers and with the common exchange (1) communicating terminals (5, 6, 12) comprising at least in vehicles (9) located terminals (12) each comprising a radio communication equipment through which communication takes place with the common exchange (1) and whose presentation means are intended to present speech and text and in which vehicles (9) also include a first device (10) for determining the position of the vehicle in the form of geographical coordinates, characterized in that the vehicles include a second device (8) in which input data input means belonging to the terminal are merged with the position of the vehicle and that on the basis of input data in the form of telephone numbers, indicated by means of the input means of the terminals and transmitted to the common exchange (1) together with the vehicle position, current telephone numbers coordinates can be determined and together with the transferred position of the vehicle used as destinations and starting point when the common center (1) generates instructions for the driving of the vehicles (9), which instructions are returned to the terminals (12) located in the vehicles where they are temporarily stored in the second device (8) to be presented on the display means depending on the position of the vehicle. 10 15 20 25 30 502 406 I5 Information system according to claim 1, characterized in that the position of the vehicles (9) together with the telephone number of the terminal (12) located in the vehicle is stored in the common exchange (1) in connection with communication between the terminal and the common exchange. . Information system according to claim 2, characterized in that when input data from an interrogating terminal consists of a telephone number relating to a terminal (12) in a vehicle (9), the common exchange (1) converts the telephone number to the stored one. the position of the vehicle, which position is returned to the interrogating terminal. Information system according to one of Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that when the input data consists of a first telephone number which is moved to a second telephone number, the common exchange (1) determines the geographical coordinates belonging to the second telephone number. Information system according to claim 1, characterized in that the second device (8) stores the position and time of the vehicle (9) and the time when the vehicle is stopped and that these stored data are transmitted to the common exchange (1) for storage. Information system according to claim 1, characterized in that the signal for triggering an airbag located in the vehicle (9) is connected to the second device (8), whereby in case of triggering the airbag the position and telephone number of the vehicle is transmitted to the common control panel (1) for identification and transmission to the control panel. IN An information system according to any one of claims I-6, -502 406: characterized in that the radio communication equipment is included in a mobile telephone system (7). Information system according to claim 7, characterized in that the mobile telephone system (7) 5 consists of GSM (Global System for Mobile communication). Information system according to one of Claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the first device (10) consists of a receiver for GPS (Global Positioning System).