WO2007118221A9

WO2007118221A9 - System and method for communicating and transferring data between a vehicle and mobile communication points

Info

Publication number: WO2007118221A9
Application number: PCT/US2007/066193
Authority: WO
Inventors: Douglas Yazzie
Original assignee: Douglas Yazzie
Priority date: 2006-04-06
Filing date: 2007-04-06
Publication date: 2008-03-06
Also published as: WO2007118221A3; WO2007118221A2

Abstract

A system and method for communicating signal between a mobile communication device and a vehicle, comprising: a signal receiving module permanently coupled to the vehicle, and configured to receive a signal; a data storage module permanently coupled to the vehicle, in communication with the signal receiving module, and configured to store the signal; a mobile communication device in communication with the signal receiving module. There is also a transit communication system and method, comprising transmitting a signal from a transit sign having a display surface and a message thereon and receiving the signal by a module permanently coupled to a vehicle. A system and method for modifying a vehicle via a network, comprising: describing a data- set to a vehicle user within a vehicle through a selection module permanently coupled to the vehicle; enabling a vehicle user to select to receive the data-set; and providing the data-set to the vehicle through a wireless connection.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATING AND TRANSFERING DATA BETWEEN A VEHICLE AND MOBILE

COMMUNICATION POINTS BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This invention claims priority, under 35 U.S. C. § 120, to the United States Provisional Patent Application No. 60\744,392, filed on April 6, 2006, which is incorporated by reference herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present invention relates to systems and methods of communication and transferring data and data signals, specifically to the communication and transfer of data and data signals between a vehicle and mobile communication points.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

[0003] The present invention will be applicable in a variety of ways to a variety of different industries. Illustrating just a few of the advantages provided by the SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATING AND TRANSFERING DATA, a user through his or her mobile communication device and vehicle system may have the constant ability to download and display small to very large amounts of data, manage and edit the data, modify and/or upgrade the vehicle with the push of a button, remain in constant contact and communication with business, social, and other events. [0004] The SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATING AND TRANSFERING DATA may be useful to a variety of industries, business, persons, and/or so forth. Indeed, vehicle manufactures, retailers, and so forth may wish to incorporate the system in to their vehicle, procedures, and/or personnel. Business, industries, and/or corporations may want to utilize the SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATING AND TRANSFERING DATA; thus increasing efficiency, productivity, profits, worker moral, and so forth. Additionally, the SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATING AND TRANSFERING DATA may have a variety of military applications, such as, communicating and sending data between vehicles, plane, weapons, and/or military personnel. Further, the SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR COMMUNICATING AND TRANSFERING DATA may include increasing the efficiency of the medical and/or health care industry.

BACKGROUND ART

[0005] In the related art, Mobile Communication Devices (MCDs) such as cell phones, Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs), laptop computers, and so forth, are often used by persons to communicate, transmit and receive data, and even stay in contact with a network MCD user. With advances in MCD technology, MCDs are now used not only for communicating but for downloading audio/video data, surfing the internet, listening to music, text messaging, sending and receiving email, and so forth.

[0006] Modern vehicles are typically equipped with several independent electronic systems. For instance, most modern vehicles may contain motion sensors, video displays, entertainment systems, sound systems, security systems, stereo speakers, televisions DVD, video cassette, CD, navigation systems. Most of these electronic systems are integrated throughout the vehicle encased in different housings, each separate from each other.

[0007] However, modern technological advancements have made it available to install high tech gadgets and communication devices in vehicles, today. Such innovations may include modern vehicles that may contain sensors, displaced around the vehicle, to alert the driver, of an object being too close to the vehicle. In addition, a video display may be coupled to the motion sensor to allow the driver to view an environment around the vehicle that may otherwise be hidden from view. Furthermore, modern luxury vehicles may now be equipped with sensors to detect animals or hazards that may be ahead of the vehicle. The vehicle may give an alarm or warning to the driver to be on the alert for dangerous driving conditions. Modern vehicles are capable of parallel parking themselves, and adjusting to certain driving conditions, such as weather.

[0008] A navigation system that incorporates global positioning system (GPS) has been a standard option available to modern vehicles. The GPS receiver has an antenna to receive signals from a satellite network. The vehicle navigation system uses the satellite positioning signals to correlate coordinates that indicate the location of the vehicle. With upgraded map software, the navigation system not only provides directions, but may also make suggestions to restaurant, movies, gas stations, hotels, etc. The navigation computer may instruct the driver on the fastest route, shortest distance, and a route with the least amount of traffic.

[0009] Cellular communication has been integrated in modern vehicles to allow cellular communication to be heard through the stereo speakers of the sound system in connection with a cell phone to allow for hands free communication. Along with cellular communication, internet access may also be available to download music, software, and/or data on the World Wide Web.

[0010] Vehicle diagnostics have been advanced to have a vehicle computer communicate with a master vehicle computer to translate what may be wrong with the engine, transmission, or any other parts of the vehicle. This unique function allows the vehicle technician to not waste any time in analyzing the vehicle, and go straight to the labor required to repair the vehicle. Vehicle diagnostics may include engine check, transmission check, vehicle tire balancing, vehicle electronics check, vehicle wiring check, vehicle maintenance check, and a complete systems check.

[0011] Modern vehicles have been able to integrate together multiple electronic systems into one interface display. One control module may be able to control the navigation system, security system, stereo system, entertainment system, cellular communication, and/or internet communication. A one touch screen allows the user to modify and adjust certain aspects of different electronic devices to correlate and work together. Previous applications to combine electronic systems in vehicles were unrelated and incompatible with each others interface.

[0012] With the ever constant increases in technology industries, the trend is to increase efficiency, productivity, speed, and integration in all aspects of business, social, and indeed life. While increases in vehicle, wireless, network, and computer technology has dramatically increased, the need for integration of aspects together into a system wherein large amounts of data can be managed is ever present.

[0013] Some improvements have been made in the field. Examples include but are not limited to the references described below, which references are incorporated by reference herein: [0014] U.S. Patent No.: 5,794,164, issued to Beckert et al., discloses a vehicle computer system has a housing sized to be mounted in a vehicle dashboard or other appropriate location, a computer mounted within the housing, and an open platform operating system which executes on an open hardware architecture computer. The open platform operating system supports multiple different applications that can be supplied by a vehicle user. For instance, the operating system can support applications pertaining to entertainment, navigation, communications, security, diagnostics, and others. The computer has one or more storage drive (e.g., CD drive, floppy disk drive, cassette player, or hard disk drive) which permits the vehicle user to download programs from a storage medium (e.g., CD, diskette, cassette, or hard disk) to the computer. In the described implementation, the computer has two independent processors. One processor, which runs the operating system, is mounted in a stationary base unit of the housing and the other processor is mounted to a faceplate which is detachable from the base unit. When the faceplate is attached, the first processor provides the primary control over all operating systems (i.e., entertainment, navigation, communications, security, diagnostics, and others) and the faceplate processor is subservient. When the faceplate is detached, it forms a portable RF device with the faceplate processor providing radio and communications capabilities.

[0015] U.S. Patent Application Publication No.: 2006/0069884, by Grace et al., discloses an apparatus for an electronic vehicle storage system. The apparatus includes a vehicle electrical infrastructure, a vehicle communications network coupled to the vehicle electrical infrastructure, a controller coupled to the vehicle electrical infrastructure via the vehicle communications network, and a data storage device coupled to the controller and configured to store multimedia files. The controller is configured to communicate with the vehicle electrical infrastructure. The data storage device includes an embedded database containing a list of multimedia file content. The controller is further configured to access the embedded database and associate a recognized multimedia file with multimedia file content from the list of multimedia file content.

[0016] U.S. Patent Application Publication No.: 2005/0278080, by Pilgrim et al., discloses a system and method for transferring information to a motor vehicle is disclosed. The system and method can send music files from a computer to an on board unit associated with a motor vehicle. The music files can be sent in a variety of different ways, including wirelessly. In some cases, the on board music collection can also be remotely managed from a computer in wireless communication with the on board unit.

[0017] The inventions heretofore known suffer from a number of disadvantages which include: inadequate and/or indirect transfer of small to large amounts data between a vehicle and a mobile communication device; inadequate integration of wireless technology and vehicle to communication devices; inadequate integration of multiple sources of data and communication; inadequate and/or the inability of a vehicle to automatically respond to data being transferred; requiring additionally user input and/or work; and/or so forth.

[0018] What is needed is a system and method of transferring data between a vehicle and mobile communication points that solves one or more of the problems described herein and/or one or more problems that may come to the attention of one skilled in the art upon becoming familiar with this specification. DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION

[0019] The present invention has been developed in response to the present state of the art, and in particular, in response to the problems and needs in the art that have not yet been fully solved by currently available systems and method for communicating between a vehicle and a mobile communication point. Accordingly, the present invention has been developed to provide an system and method which may enable the transmission, communication, and receipt of data signals between mobile communication devices, vehicles and vehicles systems, transmission and/or access points, and/or kiosks.

[0020] In one embodiment, there is a system for communicating a signal between a mobile communication device and a vehicle, comprising: a) a signal receiving module permanently coupled to the vehicle, and/or configured to receive a signal; b) a data storage module permanently coupled to the vehicle, in communication with the signal receiving module, and/or configured to store the signal; and/or c) a mobile communication device in communication with the signal receiving module.

[0021] In another embodiment there may be a method and/or a computer readable storage medium comprising computer readable program code for communicating and configured to execute on a processor, the program code including instructions for performing the steps of: a) selecting a function to be performed through a graphical user interface of a mobile communication device; b) transmitting a first signal from the mobile communication device to a vehicle; c) receiving the first signal; and/or d) storing the first signal in a module permanently coupled to the vehicle. [0022] In yet another embodiment, there may be a method and/or a computer readable storage medium comprising computer readable program code for communicating transit information, comprising the steps of: a) transmitting a first signal from a transit sign having a display surface and/or a message thereon; and/or b) receiving the first signal by a module permanently coupled to a vehicle upon the vehicle being within a predetermined distance of the transit sign.

[0023] In still another embodiment, there may be a system for communicating transit signals, comprising: a first signal transmitting module coupled to a transit sign having a display surface including a message, the first signal transmitting module configured transmit a first signal associated with the message; and/or a first signal receiving module permanently coupled to a vehicle, in communication with the first signal transmitting module, and configured to receive the first signal.

[0024] In another embodiment, there may be a method and/or a computer readable storage medium comprising computer readable program code for modifying a vehicle via a network, comprising the steps of: providing a description of a data-set to a vehicle user within a vehicle system through a selection module permanently coupled to the vehicle; enabling a vehicle user to select to receive the data-set; and/or providing the data-set to the vehicle through a wireless connection.

[0025] In still another embodiment, there is a system for remote alteration of a characteristic of a vehicle, comprising: a wireless communication module; a data storage module permanently coupled to a vehicle and in communication with the wireless communication module, the data storage module configured to store data; a control module in communication with the data storage module and/or configured to direct operation of the data storage module; and/or a vehicle modification module permanently coupled to the vehicle, the vehicle modification module in communication with the control module, and/or being configured to modify the vehicle, the vehicle modification module including instructions for modifying the performance of the vehicle.

[0026] In yet another embodiment, there may be method and/or a computer readable storage medium comprising computer readable program code for monitoring utilities comprising: transmitting a wireless signal from a utility meter module; and/or receiving the signal on a mobile signal receiving module.

[0027] In still another embodiment, there may be a system for monitoring and collecting utility information and data comprising: a utility meter; a signal transmitting module coupled to the utility meter and/or including instructions for transmitting a utility value; and/or a signal receiving module in communication with the signal transmitting module, and/or configured to receive the utility value.

[0028] In another embodiment, there may be a system for the management and/or transfer of data from an educational institution to a mobile communication device, the system comprising of a kiosk disposed in a educational institution and/or in communication with a mobile communication device, the kiosk including: 1) a network communication module, configured to provide access to a network; 2) a data storage module in communication with the network communication module, and/or configured to store data; 3) a control module, in communication with the data storage module, and/or configured to control data, wherein the control module includes instructions for communicating educational data directly to the mobile communication device; and/or 4) a first user interface module in communication with the control module, and/or configured to enable user interface with the kiosk. The system may also include: a mobile communication device in communication with the kiosk and/or a data storage module permanently coupled to a vehicle and in communication with the kiosk.

[0029] In yet another embodiment, there may be a method and/or a computer readable storage medium comprising computer readable program code for distributing information among health care providers, comprising: observing a health characteristic; recording the observed health characteristic in a data storage module coupled to a gurney disposed within a vehicle; removing the gurney from the vehicle together with a patient and the recorded health characteristic; and/or displaying the recorded health characteristic.

[0030] In still another embodiment, there may be a system for communicating and transmitting a signal among health care service facilities and/or mobile communication devices, comprising: a signal transmitting module; a signal receiving module in communication with the signal receiving module and/or configured to receive the signal; a data storage module, permanently coupled to a vehicle and/or in communication with the signal receiving module; a kiosk disposed in a health care facility and/or in communication with the signal transmitting module; and/or a mobile communication device in communication with the kiosk.

[0031] In yet another embodiment, there is a method for communicating real estate video and/or photo images using a mobile communication device, comprising: recording real estate information on location into a mobile communication device; transmitting a signal from the mobile communication device, the signal including real estate information; receiving the signal; and/or storing the signal on a module permanently coupled to a vehicle.

[0032] Reference throughout this specification to features, advantages, or similar language does not imply that all of the features and advantages that may be realized with the present invention should be or are in any single embodiment of the invention. Rather, language referring to the features and advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, discussion of the features and advantages, and similar language, throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment.

[0033] Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of the invention may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain embodiments that may not be present in all embodiments of the invention.

[0034] These features and advantages of the present invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] In order for the advantages of the invention to be readily understood, a more particular description of the invention briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments that are illustrated in the appended drawing(s). Understanding that these drawing(s) depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are not therefore to be considered to be limiting of its scope, the invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawing(s), in which:

[0036] Figure 1 is a network diagram of a system for communicating and transferring data signals, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0037] Figure 2 is a network diagram of a system for communicating and transferring data signals, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0038] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a vehicle system, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0039] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a vehicle system, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0040] Figure 5 is a flow chart illustrating a method of communication, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0041] Figure 6 is a block diagram of a system for communicating and transferring data signals, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0042] Figure 7 is a block diagram of a system for communicating and transferring transit data signals, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0043] Figure 8 is a block diagram of a system for communicating and transferring transit data signals, according to one embodiment of the invention [0044] Figure 9 is a flow chart of a method for communicating and transferring transit data signals, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0045] Figure 10 is a network diagram of a system for a network vehicle modification system, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0046] Figure 11 is a block diagram of a system for a network vehicle modification system, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0047] Figure 12 is a flow chart of a method for network vehicle modification, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0048] Figure 13 is a perspective view of a system for network vehicle modification, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0049] Figure 14 is a network diagram of a system for monitoring utilities, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0050] Figure 15 is a flow chart of a method for network monitoring of utilities, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0051] Figure 16 is a block diagram of a system for a network monitoring of utilities, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0052] Figure 17 is a block diagram of a system for a network monitoring of utilities, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0053] Figure 18 is a network diagram of a system for mobile educational system, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0054] Figure 19 is a network diagram of a system for mobile educational system, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0055] Figure 20 is a block diagram of a system for mobile educational system, according to one embodiment of the invention; [0056] Figure 21 is a network diagram of a system for mobile educational system, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0057] Figure 22 is a perspective view of a kiosk of a system for system for communicating and transferring data signals, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0058] Figure 23 is a network diagram of a system for mobile communication health care system, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0059] Figure 24 is a block diagram of a system for mobile communication health care system, according to one embodiment of the invention;

[0060] Figure 25 is a flow chart of a method for mobile communication health care system, according to one embodiment of the invention; and

[0061] Figure 26 is a flow chart of a method of communicating and transmitting real estate data, according to one embodiment of the invention.

MODES FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0062] For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawing(s), and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. Any alterations and further modifications of the inventive features illustrated herein, and any additional applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated herein, which would occur to one skilled in the relevant art and having possession of this disclosure, are to be considered within the scope of the invention.

[0063] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment," "an embodiment," or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "one embodiment," "an embodiment," and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment, different embodiments, or component parts of the same or different illustrated invention. Additionally, reference to the wording "an embodiment," or the like, for two or more features, elements, etc. does not mean that the features are related, dissimilar, the same, etc. The use of the term "an embodiment," or similar wording, is merely a convenient phrase to indicate optional features, which may or may not be part of the invention as claimed.

[0064] Each statement of an embodiment is to be considered independent of any other statement of an embodiment despite any use of similar or identical language characterizing each embodiment. Therefore, where one embodiment is identified as "another embodiment," the identified embodiment is independent of any other embodiments characterized by the language "another embodiment." The independent embodiments are considered to be able to be combined in whole or in part one with another as the claims and/or art may direct, either directly or indirectly, implicitly or explicitly.

[0065] Finally, the fact that the wording "an embodiment," or the like, does not appear at the beginning of every sentence in the specification, such as is the practice of some practitioners, is merely a convenience for the reader's clarity. However, it is the intention of this application to incorporate by reference the phrasing "an embodiment," and the like, at the beginning of every sentence herein where logically possible and appropriate.

[0066] As used herein, "comprising," "including," "containing," "is," "are," "characterized by," and grammatical equivalents thereof are inclusive or open-ended terms that do not exclude additional unrecited elements or method steps. "Comprising" is to be interpreted as including the more restrictive terms "consisting of and "consisting essentially of."

[0067] Many of the functional units described in this specification have been labeled as modules, in order to more particularly emphasize their implementation independence. For example, a module may be implemented as a hardware circuit comprising custom VLSI circuits or gate arrays, off-the-shelf semiconductors such as logic chips, transistors, or other discrete components. A module may also be implemented in programmable hardware devices such as field programmable gate arrays, programmable array logic, programmable logic devices or the like.

[0068] Modules may also be implemented in software for execution by various types of processors. An identified module of programmable or executable code may, for instance, comprise one or more physical or logical blocks of computer instructions which may, for instance, be organized as an object, procedure, or function. Nevertheless, the executables of an identified module need not be physically located together, but may comprise disparate instructions stored in different locations which, when joined logically together, comprise the module and achieve the stated purpose for the module.

[0069] Indeed, a module and/or a program of executable code may be a single instruction, or many instructions, and may even be distributed over several different code segments, among different programs, and across several memory devices. Similarly, operational data may be identified and illustrated herein within modules, and may be embodied in any suitable form and organized within any suitable type of data structure. The operational data may be collected as a single data set, or may be distributed over different locations including over different storage devices, and may exist, at least partially, merely as electronic signals on a system or network.

[0070] The various system components and/or modules discussed herein may include one or more of the following: a host server or other computing systems including a processor for processing digital data; a memory coupled to said processor for storing digital data; an input digitizer coupled to the processor for inputting digital data; an application program stored in said memory and accessible by said processor for directing processing of digital data by said processor; a display device coupled to the processor and memory for displaying information derived from digital data processed by said processor; and a plurality of databases. Various databases used herein may include: show data, participant data; sponsor data; financial institution data; and/or like data useful in the operation of the present invention. As those skilled in the art will appreciate, any computers discussed herein may include an operating system (e.g., Windows NT, 95/98/2000, OS2, UNIX, Linux, Solaris, MacOS, etc.) as well as various conventional support software and drivers typically associated with computers. The computers may be in a home or business environment with access to a network. In an exemplary embodiment, access is through the Internet through a commercially- available web-browser software package.

[0071] As set forth in the specification, the system and method of the invention may facilitate the providing information to participants through multiple media sources and may allow the player modules to receive information via similar multiple media sources. The multiple media sources may include, for example, chat room, radio, bulletin board, internet web pages, email, billboards, newsletters, commercials and/or the like. The present invention may be described herein in terms of functional block components, screen shots, optional selections and various processing steps. It should be appreciated that such functional blocks may be realized by any number of hardware and/or software components configured to perform the specified functions.

[0072] For example, the present invention may employ various integrated circuit components, e.g., memory elements, processing elements, logic elements, look-up tables, and the like, which may carry out a variety of functions under the control of one or more microprocessors or other control devices. Similarly, the software elements of the present invention may be implemented with any programming or scripting language such as C, C++, Java, COBOL, assembler, PERL, Visual Basic, SQL Stored Procedures, extensible markup language (XML), with the various algorithms being implemented with any combination of data structures, objects, processes, routines or other programming elements.

[0073] Further, it should be noted that the present invention may employ any number of conventional techniques for data transmission, signaling, data processing, network control, and the like. Still further, the invention may be used to detect or prevent security issues with a client-side scripting language, such as JavaScript, VBScript or the like. For a basic introduction of cryptography and network security, the following may be helpful references: (1) "Applied Cryptography: Protocols, Algorithms, And Source Code In C," by Bruce Schneier, published by John Wiley & Sons (second edition, 1996); (2) "Java Cryptography" by Jonathan Knudson, published by O'Reilly & Associates (1998); (3) "Cryptography & Network Security: Principles & Practice" by William Stalling, published by Prentice Hall; all of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0074] Additionally, many of the functional units and/or modules herein are described as being "in communication" with other functional units and/or modules. Being "in communication" refers to any manner and/or way in which functional units and/or modules, such as, but not limited to, computers, laptop computers, PDAs, modules, and other types of hardware and/or software, may be in communication with each other. Some non-limiting examples include communicating, sending, and/or receiving data and metadata via: a network, a wireless network, software, instructions, circuitry, phone lines, internet lines, signals satellite signals, electric signals, electrical and magnetic fields and/or pulses, and/or so forth.

[0075] As used herein, the term "network" may include any electronic communications means which incorporates both hardware and software components of such. Communication among the parties in accordance with the present invention may be accomplished through any suitable communication channels, such as, for example, a telephone network, an extranet, an intranet, Internet, point of interaction device (point of sale device, personal digital assistant, cellular phone, kiosk, etc.), online communications, off-line communications, wireless communications, transponder communications, local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), networked or linked devices and/or the like. Moreover, although the invention may be implemented with TCP/IP communications protocols, the invention may also be implemented using IPX, Appletalk, IP-6, NetBIOS, OSI or any number of existing or future protocols. If the network is in the nature of a public network, such as the Internet, it may be advantageous to presume the network to be insecure and open to eavesdroppers. Specific information related to the protocols, standards, and application software utilized in connection with the Internet is generally known to those skilled in the art and, as such, need not be detailed herein. See, for example, DILIP NAIK, INTERNET STANDARDS AND PROTOCOLS (1998); JAVA 2 COMPLETE, various authors, (Sybex 1999); DEBORAH RAY AND ERIC RAY, MASTERING HTML 4.0 (1997); and LOSHIN, TCP/IP CLEARLY EXPLAINED (1997), the contents of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

[0076] Further, in another embodiment, as described herein, a mobile communication device (MCD) may any type and/or kind of mobile communication device contemplated in the art. Some non-limiting examples of MCDs include: a mobile telecommunication transmitter, receiver, and/or transceiver capable of supporting a connection; cell phones; smart phones; hybrid phones; pagers; wireless web browsers; personal digital assistants (PDAs); laptop/handheld/wearable computers; digital writing and/or recording tablets, palm pilot, electronic notepad, iP0D/MP3 player, Bluetooth, and/or so forth. The MCD may include a one or more components, features, and/or modules contemplated in the art such as, but not lot limited to video/photo cameras, recorders, music players, wireless transmitters and/or receivers, email and internet capability, input output modules, and/or so forth. [0077] As illustrated in Figure 1, there is a system and method for communicating, transmitting, and/or receiving signals and/or data. The system and method include: a MCD 18, a vehicle system 16, one or more wireless transmission and/or access points 14 all in communication over a network. Additionally, within the system there may be additional functional modules, i.e., first, second, and N functional modules 10, which may represent features, components, and/or modules describe herein. The network may be any type and/or kind of network contemplated in the art. Some non-limiting examples of a network include: internet, LAN, WAN, WIFI, intranet, and/or so forth. Indeed, the MCD, vehicle system, and/or kiosk may be enabled and/or include modules as described herein enabling data and/or signal communication from third part sources, such as but not limited to internet websites, office LANs, and/or so forth.

[0078] Figure 2 illustrates a system for communicating data between a mobile communication device and a vehicle according to one embodiment of the invention. As shown, there is a mobile communications device 18, (e.g., personal digital assistant (PDA), cellular phone, palm pilot, electronic notepad, iPOD, Bluetooth), in wireless communication with a vehicle hard drive system 16, such as a system described in U.S. Patent No.: 5,794,164, issued to Beckert et al., which is incorporated by reference herein. The said system is adapted to be permanently disposed in the vehicle 19 operating in a wireless communications network as described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0278080, by Pilgrim et al., which is incorporated by reference herein. The vehicle 19 may be any motor vehicle appreciated in the art, such as, but not limited to: a car, a bus, a taxi, a truck, a van, an airplane, a boat, and a train. [0079] In particular, the vehicle system, vehicle hard drive system or vehicle communications system enables a user to download/store a plurality of multimedia data from his or her MCD to the system. Such a feature allows the user to conveniently manipulate computer hardware/software/operating system applications using said data from inside his or her vehicle without assistance from a conventional desktop computer terminal or the like. This is especially helpful when users who frequently drive their vehicles to engage in various activities in a fast paced world. Likewise, in one embodiment, a user may download data from the vehicle hard drive system to his of her mobile communications device.

[0080] Some non-limiting examples of such multimedia data that may be communicated between the MCD and the vehicle, and stored therein include, but is not limited to: email messages; Internet websites; text files; graphical files; video/gaming files; audiovisual files; music; healthcare records; scanned files, real estate information; educational records/information; Internet downloadable computer programs/algorithms (e.g., software applications/drivers, computer security system software, shareware, freeware, etc.); company Intranet files/websites; military records/files; government records/files; utility meter data/readings, medical/healthcare information, transit sign information, and other multimedia data that may be accessed, transmitted, and received through the wireless communications network.

[0081] In yet another embodiment, it is contemplated that the mobile communications device may be a portable communication, digital assistant device which may typically be employed by U.S. Department of Defense, such as military organizations to quickly disseminate information between the mobile communications device and a vehicle hard drive system disposed in a plurality of military vehicles, particular during training exercises and/or combat operations. Some non-limiting examples of military vehicles that may employ the system include, but is not limited to: Humvees; amphibious carriers; fighter/bomber/cargo/very important personnel (VIP) aircraft; armored vehicles or tanks; Naval Ships; aircraft maintenance vehicles; Minuteman Missile Transport Vehicles, etc. Advantageously, in a non-limiting example, the MCD to vehicle system may enable military personnel to remotely view live video and pictorial images, such as but not limited to through the use of drones, military reconnaissance vehicles, intelligence gathering vehicles, tactical radio devices and/or transmitters, and/or so forth.

[0082] As shown in Figure 3 through 6, the vehicle system includes one or more data broadcasting modules 64. The broadcasting modules may be disposed throughout the vehicle. In a non-limiting example, the broadcasting modules may be incorporated into the vehicle headrests, in the vehicle dash, and/or so forth. The broadcast module may include any module configured to broadcast a signal, data, and/or other information contemplated in the art. Some non-limiting examples of broadcast modules include: display modules, audio/video modules, dvd video and/or music playing modules, hologram, 4-D imaging modules, bar and/or so forth.

[0083] In another embodiment, the vehicle system and/or MCD include a video game and/or game system modules. The game system modules may be in communication with and/or incorporated into the vehicle system. Advantageously, this may enable a user to download game data, systems, and so forth directly into the vehicle system and/or MCD.

[0084] In one embodiment, the vehicle system 16 and/or the MCD 18 include user recognition modules 77 (also referred to as a voice recognition module) which may function to recognize the user(s) and/or owner(s) of the vehicle system and MCD. The user recognition modules may be any type and/or kind of user identification module contemplated in the art. Some non-limiting examples of recognition modules include: voice recognition, combinations, username/password, retinal scans, fingerprint, radio frequency signals, barcode scanners, scanners, and/or so forth. Indeed, in one embodiment, the vehicle system 16 may recognize one more MCDs and/or vice versa. Additionally, the user recognition module may be configured to restrict or allow partial and/or complete access to the vehicle system.

[0085] In another embodiment, the user recognition modules are embodied in, incorporated into, and/or in communication with various features, modules, and/or components of the vehicle system and/or MCD. Indeed, user recognition modules, may be incorporated to the vehicle itself. Some non-limiting examples of user recognition modules include: retinal scans incorporated into rear view mirror or makeup mirrors, fingerprint modules incorporated into door handles, steering wheels, and/or so forth.

[0086] According to one embodiment shown in Figure 6, the system comprises: a data storage module 60, such as but not limited to internal DVD/CD- ROM drives, floppy diskette drives, ROM/RAM circuit/cards, external diskette drives permanently coupled to the vehicle, and configured to store said data downloadable; a control module 53, such as described in Patent Application Publication No: 2005/0231905 by Padin, in communication with the data storage module, and configured to control the storage of data; a network communications module 70, such as described U.S. Patent No.: 5,794,164, issued to Beckert et al., in communication with the control module and comprising a plurality of instructions 186 for sending and receiving the data signal directly between the data storage module and the MCD.

[0087] As shown in Figure 6, the system further comprises a data broadcasting module, such as described in U.S. Patent No.: 7,177,658, issued to Willenegger, et al., which is incorporated by reference herein, in communication with the control module, and configured to broadcast the data; a tracking module 61 (e.g., a GPS integrated circuit/chip) in communication with the control module; and a data managing module 69, such as described in U.S. Patent 7,197,537, issues to Koch, in communication with the control module, and configured to manage the data and provide notification and verification of data delivery.

[0088] There is also shown in Figure 6, a scheduling module 68 in communication with the control module, and configured to monitor and maintain a schedule. In one embodiment, the scheduling module includes instructions for matching an event to the first user profile module and the second user profile module. The scheduling module further includes instructions for comparing a first user record and a second user record to an event location, event activity, and event time. If a match is found, then the scheduling module will select an event characteristic from the group consisting of: event location, event activity, event time, and/or any combination thereof. If a match is not found the instructions include making further comparisons. The scheduling module further includes instructions for selecting an event characteristic selected from the group consisting of: event location, event activity, and event time. The scheduling module automatically matches event activities, event locations, and event times that match and/or are similar to the data and/or metadata of first user profile module and the second user profile module. Event location may be any location contemplated in the art. Some non-limiting examples include: an address, a building and/or restaurant, theatre, club and/or so forth. Event activity may be any activity contemplated in the art. Some non-limiting examples include: a sporting event, a theatre event, a convention, a business and/or other social gathering, and/or so forth. Event time may include any unit of time contemplated in the art. Some non-limiting examples include: hours and minutes, day, date, and/or so forth.

[0089] In another embodiment, the scheduling module may include an event database (e.g., MS Outlook) in which data associated with a plurality of events, locations, and times are managed and/or stored. The event database functions to assist the scheduling module in providing data and/or metadata regarding the events, location and/or times. In one non-limiting example, if a first and second MCD is matched with a particular event, the event database provides information relating to event content, location, and time.

[0090] In an alternative embodiment, the scheduling module may include instructions for automatically matching an event time to a MCD user's schedule and/or scheduled tasks. Additionally, the scheduling module 170 may automatically schedule and/or include instructions for incorporating a matched event on a MCD user's scheduling and/or appointment software, such as but not limited to outlook and/or daily planners.

[0091] In yet another embodiment, the system for matching users of MCDs includes instructions for prompting a user to select the event. The system may prompt a user to select an event in any manner contemplated in the art. In one non-limiting example, the system displays a list of suggested events on a users' MCD. In another non-limiting example, the system prompts a user to select an event characteristic. The system then displays a list of suggest events according to the selected characteristic on a users' MCD.

[0092] In another embodiment, the scheduling module is able to receive data and/or signals from a variety of types of scheduling software; thereby enabling a user to simple and quickly transfer his or her schedule information between an MCD and the vehicle system. The scheduling module may also be in communication with the broadcasting module and configured to alert a user of an upcoming event, appointment and/or so forth. Additionally, the scheduling module may be in communication with the GPS, tracking module, and/or navigations systems incorporated as part of the vehicle system and MCD; thereby automatically providing directions and/or assistance in locating and arriving at an event.

[0093] There is also a MCD input module 75 configured to enable input and out put of data between the MCD and the vehicle system. Indeed, the input/output module 66 may be any type and/or kind contemplated in the art, such as but not limited to, USB, flash memory, insertable disk, and/or so forth. The I/O module may or may not be electromechanically coupled to the vehicle and in communication with the data storage module, the MCD input module designed to receive the MCD.

[0094] Also shown in Figure 6, the vehicle system and MCD includes a power module 73 comprising a vehicle battery appreciated in the art, such as a conventional vehicle battery. The power module generally provides power to the system. In another embodiment, the power module may further comprise a MCD battery charger. Indeed, any such power module contemplated in the art may be used, such as but not limited to battery, solar power, wind power, motion and/or electromagnetic power, and/or so forth; which may allow a user to selectably recharge the MCD 's or vehicle system from the vehicle or other source.

[0095] In another embodiment, the power module may even further comprise a portable backup power supply unit, such as those used to provide backup power for conventional computer modules know in the art. It is contemplated that the said unit that may be sized to be mounted in the vehicle, and configured to be automatically activated during cases where the vehicle becomes disabled or otherwise in operative, such as a dead car battery for example. The said unit is configured to deliver direct current (DC) power to the system independently from that of the vehicle, such that communications of data between the MCD and the system, as well as computer module functionality is maintained. This prevents data from being lost. A non- limiting example of a backup power supply that may be employed for vehicles is an Uninterrupted Power Supply, such an extra battery or power source not in communication with the vehicle, or as described herein.

[0096] Also shown in Figure 6, the system includes a media playing module 74 such as but not limited to a CD/DVD-ROM player, diskette player, etc. configured for a user to selectably play, record, or otherwise manipulate a plurality of media tokens. Some non-limiting examples of the media token are objects including media, such as but not limited to CDs, DVDs, removable USB drives, diskettes, removable memory devices, PDAs) that may be manipulated on demand from the vehicle.

[0097] Also in Figure 6, there is a security module 71 coupled to the system, and may comprise said modules as described in U.S. Patent No.: 5,794,164, issued to Beckert et al. and U.S. Patent No. 6,476,833, issued to Moshfeghi, which are incorporated by reference herein. In one embodiment, the security module is in communication with the data storing module, data transmitting module, data management module, data processing module, and control module. The security module is adapted to restrict the downloading, transmission, processing, or otherwise filtering of unwanted/contaminated data, thereby protecting the system from damage, infection, malfunctioning, etc. Further, the security module may enable a user to selectably restrict the reception, transmission, and/or storage files that are communicated between the mobile communications device and the system. In operation, the user may selectably manipulate the security module to filter markup language documents such as HTML, XML, etc. before being displayed on an Internet browser from the display module.

[0098] In one embodiment, it is contemplated in the art that the system includes an I/O module 66. One skilled in the art would understand that said computer terminals/systems, kiosks are designed/manufactured to include input/output (I/O) devices or modules, such as: hard diskette drives, printers, monitors, scanners, keyboards, mice, graphical user interfaces (GUIs), etc. so that media content data may be processed, stored and/or transmitted by the computer system. Additionally, one skilled in the art would also understand that said computer terminals/systems may include communication/data processing modules, such as, but not limited to, wireless communications transceivers, microprocessors, telephone lines/jacks, modems, integrated circuits/chips, routers, etc..

[0099] It is further contemplated in the art the system may comprise a computer module coupled to both the MCD and vehicle, and generally comprises: a data storage module, a tracking module, a data broadcasting module, a network communications module, an I/O module, an analog/digital data converter, a media playing module, a data transmitting module, a central processing unit, a control module, a display module, an audio module, and a video module. One skilled in the art would understand that the computer module is collectively responsible for processing, storing, uploading, downloading, and or other manipulating multimedia data of interest to the user.

[00100] The computer module further comprises a central processing unit (e.g., motherboard), including a microprocessor (e.g., Intel® microprocessor). One skilled in the art of manufacturing integrated circuits/chips may appreciate that the microprocessor processes analog/digital signals required to run an open platform computer operating system, such as Windows NT®, Windows 2000®, or any other embodiments of operating systems from Microsoft Corporation. One skilled in the art would appreciate that the operating system is stored in the computer module's data storage module. The operating system supports a variety of computer software applications, multimedia data, and other forms of data that the MCD/vehicle user may desire, wherein said applications and data may be stored in the internal data storage module or on a removable data storage module or media token (e.g., CD-ROMs, diskettes, jump drives, etc.). The data storage module disposed in the computer module includes a plurality of memory devices (e.g., flash memory, dynamic random access memory (DRAM), read only memory (ROM)) to help support the microprocessor in running the operating system and loaded applications, multimedia data, and other data forms.

[00101] In one embodiment shown in the figures, it is contemplated in the art that the tracking module may be electrically coupled to both the mobile communications device and vehicle hard drive system. Some non-limiting examples of the tracking module is a GPS receiver taught in U.S. Patent No.: 4,785,463, issued to Jane et al.; and U.S. Patent No.: 4,457,006, issued to Maine, which are incorporated by reference herein. The tracking module is configured assist mobile communications device users' to find location positions of their vehicle(s). In one non-limiting example, the user may manipulate the tracking module to locate or otherwise identify a seemingly lost vehicle parked in an extraordinary large parking lot, typically located at a shopping mall for example. In another non-limiting example, the user may employ the tracking module to locate stolen vehicle(s), thereby streamlining the time it takes for the users' vehicle(s) to be found/recovered by themselves, law enforcement agencies, insurance companies, automobile dealers, etc. Additionally, the tracking module may be embodied in or in communication with a navigations system.

[00102] In one embodiment shown in the figures, the system includes an analog/digital signal converter 72, manufactured by Atmel Corporation, 2325 Orchard Parkway, San Jose, CA 95131. The converter is configured to be in electrical communication with the computer module and data transmitting module, and configured to convert analog signals (e.g., light, sound, voice, speech, etc.) into digital signals that are manipulated by digital equipment, such as computer modules, kiosks, iPODs, MCDs, etc.. In turn, digital equipment may process and displays the said digital signals in a form of multimedia data, such as video files, audio files, text files, image files, etc. that may accessed and manipulated by a MCD/vehicle user.

[00103] In one embodiment, one skilled in the art of satellite/wireless communications systems would understand that a GPS receiver is a integrated semiconductor circuit/chip that behaves as a transceiver capable of transmitting/receiving location information in the form of analog and digital signals to/from GPS satellites and GPS ground stations, such that tracking may monitor the location of objects. Some other non-limiting examples of a GPS receiver are manufactured by Microchip Technology Inc., 2355 West Chandler Boulevard, Chandler, AZ 85224.

[00104] In one embodiment, the system may include a translation module 55, described in U.S. Patent Application Publication No.: 2004/0044518, by Reed, Jr. et al., which is incorporated by reference herein. It is contemplated that the translation module is in signal communication with the computer module, and configured to translate one language (e.g., German) to another language (e.g., English) such that users residing in a plurality of countries worldwide may employ the MCD and system. The translation module is embodied in and/or in communication with the vehicle system.

[00105] In another embodiment, the translation module may be incorporated into the transit communication system and method as described herein. Advantageously, this would enable a person unfamiliar with the language and/or markings of road signs, advertisements, markers etc. the ability to be safe, preventing accidents.

[00106] In one embodiment, the system includes a printer module, such a HP Deskjet D2330 Printer on sale at Hewlett-Packard Company, 3000 Hanover Street, Palo Alto, CA US 94304. It is contemplated that the printer module may or may not be removably coupleable to both the MCD and the computer module, and is adapted to enable a user to print multimedia data from either the MCD or the computer module. Advantageously, a user may print out important documents/multimedia, such as real estate information; company Intranet files/websites; military records/files; government records/files; utility meter data/readings, transit sign information, financial records, and other multimedia data as desired.

[00107] In one embodiment, the system may further include a scanner module coupleable and/or in communication with the vehicle system. Some other non-limiting examples of a scanner may be and/or function as any scanner as contemplated in the art. Accordingly, the scanner module is configured to scan/convert printed documents into files (e.g., .html, .pdf, .gif, .jpeg) that may either stored in the data storage module; displayed from the display module; and manipulated by means of a user interface module as desired by the user. In another embodiment, the scanner module may further comprise a barcode scanner, such as Symbol LS4278 Cordless Handheld Scanner, Symbol Technologies, Inc., One Symbol Plaza, Holtsville, NY 11742-1300. The bar code scanner is configured to scan barcode from mediums having barcode disposed there on such as credit cards; identification cards made by private companies, military organizations, government agencies, etc.; MCDs, vehicles; etc. As a result, the user is able to identify his or her vehicle, MCD, and other documents/multimedia as desired.

[00108] In one embodiment, the system may further include a display module 57 such as a touch screen known in the art, in communication with the computer module, audio module, data transmitting module, data storage module, security module, scanner module, power module, voice recognition module, data broadcasting module, tracking module, smartcard reader, and/or media playing modules. In one exemplary embodiment, the display module serves as both display medium and a graphical user interface, thereby enabling a user to manipulate a wide variety of multimedia data/files displayed therefrom. For example, it is envisioned that the following computer applications may be executed from the display module, including but not limited to: download/uploading multimedia and other files from the Internet; read, write, save, edit, move files from one file allocation table in the data storage module to another; access, read, write, save, transmit email messages; manipulate scanner module functionality; play, copy, record music/data CDs/DVDs, play video games; download video game files from the Internet; etc.. Some other non-limiting examples of display modules may include: convention computer desktop monitors, kiosk touch screens.

[00109] In one embodiment shown in the figures, the system may further include a voice recognition module 77, such as described in U.S. Patent Application Publication 2005/0288922, by Kooiman, which is incorporated by reference herein. The voice recognition module may be and/or function as any voice recognition module as contemplated in the art or as described herein. The voice recognition module is embodied in and/or in communication with the vehicle system.

[00110] In one embodiment shown in the figures, there is a video module 76, coupled to and/or in communication with the vehicle system. The video module is configure for a user download, upload, play video files, such as video games, movies, in the vehicle and/or from the MCD while traveling, especially when traveling on long trips. The video module may be and/or function as any video module as contemplated in the art or as described herein.

[00111] In one embodiment shown in the figures, there is a data transmitting module, such as described in a system for transferring information to a motor vehicle, such as the system of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0278080, by Pilgrim et al.; a data transfer interface, such as the data transfer interface of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0114575, by Weisser et al. It is contemplated that the data transmitting module enables multimedia data to be transferred between the MCD and the vehicle in the communications network as described herein.

[00112] Advantageously, in one embodiment, the system and method of transmitting and communicating data/signals may be applicable and/or used in the sale, repair, tracking and/or monitoring of vehicles. The vehicle system may additionally include a VIN number tracking and/or recording module. In a non- limiting example, the VIN number may be encoded and/or displayed in bar number and/or other scannable and/or readable data source. This may enable the facilities and/or personnel of military, emergency response, auto dealers and repair, truckers, shipping, etc. to monitor the location of a vehicle. Indeed, the VIN number recording module may be in communication with the data storage module and data managing module; thereby enabling quick and easy access to information/data associated with a vehicle. In a non-limiting example, an auto dealer may be able to track and monitor a vehicle while a potential buyer is on a test drive.

[00113] In another embodiment, the vehicle system includes an E-fax transceiving module, configured to send and/or receives E-fax data. The E-fax transceiving module may be any type and/or kind contemplated in the art or and include any of the features described herein.

[00114] In another embodiment, one or more of the functional modules and/or structural modules described herein may be disposed, coupled, and/or indeed incorporate into eyewear. The eyewear may be in communication and/or incorporated as part of the vehicle system and/or user recognition module. In a non-limiting example, a night vision and/or thermal imagery enhancing modules are incorporated and/or embodied in eyewear; thereby enabling a user see better at night and/or when visibility is very low.

[00115] TRANSIT SIGN COMMUNICATION

[00116] As shown in Figure 9 there is a method of communicating transit signals 85. As illustrated, the method of communicating transit signals includes transmitting 86 a first signal from a transit sign and receiving 88 the first signal by a module permanently coupled to a vehicle upon the vehicle being within a predetermined distance of the transit sign. For example, the transit sign may transmit a first signal to the module for control of the vehicle, such as, but not limited to: reduce speed, increase speed, stop, turn right, and/or turn left. Accordingly, in one embodiment of the invention, the transit sign may be selected from the group consisting essentially of: a construction sign, a traffic sign, a traffic light, an advertising sing, a place of business, and any combinations thereof. Moreover, the transit sign may be any roadside point, such as, but not limited to a mile marker, cone, barrier, light pole, or cellular tower. In addition, the vehicle may be any vehicle appreciated in the art, such as, but not limited to a car, a bus, a taxi, a motorcycle, a bicycle, an airplane, a boat, and a train.

[00117] Further, the transit sign and the module permanently coupled to the vehicle may each include the following, which are incorporated by reference herein: a vehicle computer system, such as the vehicle computer system of U.S. Patent No. 5,794164, issued to Beckert et al.; a system for transferring information to a motor vehicle, such as the system of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0278080, by Pilgrim et al.; a data transfer interface, such as the data transfer interface of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0114575, by Weisser et al.; a system and device for providing communication, such as the system and device for providing communication of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0273878, by Michmerhuizen et al. ; and a system for migration of multimedia content, such as the system of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0273473, by Grace et al.. As a result, the module may receive the first signal from the transit sign at a predetermined distance from the transit sign. For example, the module may receive the first signal at a distance such as, but not limited to: 10 feet, 25 feet, 50 feet, 100 feet, 250 feet, and/or 500 feet from the transit sign.

[00118] In another embodiment if the invention, the transit sign includes a wireless transmitter module. For example, the transit sign may include a wireless transmitter module, such as the device for providing communication of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0273878, by Michmerhuizen et al., which is incorporated by reference herein. In addition, the illustrated method of communicating transit signals includes encrypting the first signal. For example, the transit sign may include encryption software for encrypting the first signal, such as the encryption software of Cypherix™, of Mahim, Mumbai, India, which is incorporated by reference herein.

[00119] Also, in one embodiment of the invention, receiving the first signal by the module permanently coupled to the vehicle occurs upon satisfaction of a first condition. For example, satisfaction of the first condition may include such as, but not limited to: providing a user preference, providing a user password, providing an access code, providing a security code, providing a security measure, providing data modification, etc. For instance, in one embodiment of the invention, the module may not receive the first signal until a user provides a user preference, password, access code, security code, or other security measure to the module. Additionally, the user may program the module to receive the first signal based on the user's settings. For instance, the user may program the module to receive the first signal 100 feet from the transit sign.

[00120] The illustrated method of communicating transit signals also includes broadcasting 90 a logical message associated with the transit sign, and the vehicle automatically responding to the logical message associated with the transit sign. For instance, the module may broadcast a logical message associated with the transit sign, such as, but not limited to: stop, go, slow down, turn, curve ahead, construction ahead, bridge may be icy, etc., to a user in the vehicle. For example, the module may include an audio alarm, such as a siren and/or a vocal alarm, for broadcasting a logical message to the user. Similarly, the module may include a visual alarm, such as a light, an image display, and/or a text display for broadcasting a logical message to the user. [00121] Further, the method of communicating transit signals, as shown, includes transmitting 94 a second signal from a module permanently coupled to the vehicle, receiving the second signal by the transit sign, and responding automatically by the transit sign in accordance with the second signal upon satisfaction of a second condition. For instance, a second signal may be transmitted from the module to the transit sign in order to modify or cancel the first signal. For example, a user, such as a construction worker, or a police officer, may modify the first signal by transmitting a second signal to the transit sign, thereby controlling a traffic lights, traffic speed, etc. Accordingly, satisfaction of the second condition may include such as, but not limited to: providing a user preference, providing a user password, providing an access code, providing a security code, providing a security measure, providing data modification, etc.

[00122] Furthermore, the method of communicating transit signals includes retransmitting the second signal from the module. Additionally, the illustrated method of communicating transit signals includes encrypting the second signal. For example, the module may include encryption software for encrypting the second signal, such as the encryption software of Cypherix™, of Mahim, Mumbai, India, which is incorporated by reference herein.

[00123] Figure 8 is a system for communicating transit signals. As illustrated, the system includes a first signal transmitting module 82 (also referred to as a transceiver module) coupled to a transit sign 81, and a first signal receiving module permanently coupled to a vehicle, and in communication with the signal transmitting module. In one embodiment of the invention, the first signal transmitting module is configured to transmit a first signal, and the first signal receiving module is configured to receive the first signal. For example, the first signal transmitting module may transmit a first signal to the first signal receiving module such as, but not limited to: reduce speed, increase speed, stop, turn right, and/or turn left.

[00124] Accordingly, the first signal transmitting module and the first signal receiving module may each include the following, which are incorporated by reference herein: a vehicle computer system, such as the vehicle computer system of U.S. Patent No. 5,794164, issued to Beckert et al.; a system for transferring information to a motor vehicle, such as the system of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0278080, by Pilgrim et al.; a data transfer interface, such as the data transfer interface of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0114575, by Weisser et al.; a system and device for providing communication, such as the system and device for providing communication of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0273878, by Michmerhuizen et al.; and a system for migration of multimedia content, such as the system of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0273473, by Grace et al..

[00125] Also, in one embodiment of the invention, the transit sign is selected from the group consisting essentially of: a construction sign, a traffic sign, a traffic light, and advertising sign, a place of business, and any combinations thereof. Moreover, the transit sign may be any roadside point, such as, but not limited to a mile marker, cone, barrier, light pole, or cellular tower. In another embodiment of the invention, the transit sign includes a wireless transmitter module 70. For example, the transit sign may include a wireless transmitter module, such as the device for providing communication of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0273878, by Michmerhuizen et al., which is incorporated by reference herein. In still another embodiment of the invention, the first signal is encrypted. For example, the transit sign may include encryption software for encrypting the first signal, such as the encryption software of Cypherix™, of Mahim, Mumbai, India, which is incorporated by reference herein. Furthermore, the vehicle may be any vehicle appreciated in the art, such as, but not limited to a car, a bus, a taxi, a motorcycle, a bicycle, an airplane, a boat, and a train.

[00126] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the first signal receiving module includes instructions for receiving the first signal upon satisfaction of a first condition. For example, the first condition may include such as, but not limited to: a user preference, a user password, an access code, a security code, a security measure, data modification, etc. As a result, the instructions may, or may not, allow the first signal receiving module to fully receive, partially receive, and/or decode the first signal upon satisfaction of a first condition.

[00127] In addition, the illustrated system for communicating transit signals includes a signal response module 84 permanently coupled to the vehicle and in communication with the first signal receiving module. In one embodiment of the invention, the signal response module may provide a response to the first signal. In a non-limiting example, if the first signal is to stop, the response module may cause the vehicle to brake. Similarly, if the first signal is to slow down, the response module may cause the vehicle to decelerate, and so on. Accordingly, the signal response module may include an electronic stability control system, including vehicle stability control and electronic stability program, such as those of Volvo and BMW.

[00128] In a further embodiment of the invention, the signal response module includes instructions for responding automatically to the logical message associated with the transit sign. For instance, the instructions may, or may not, allow the signal response module to respond to a logical message associated with the transit sign, such as, but not limited to: stop, go, slow down, turn, curve ahead, construction ahead, bridge may be icy, etc., to a user in the vehicle. Likewise, the instructions may limit a response of the signal response module. For example, the instructions may limit a response of the signal response module according to the vehicle's distance from the transit sign. For instance, the instructions may enable no response 500 feet from the transit sign, may enable a limited response 100 feet from the transit sign, and may enable a full response 25 feet from the transit sign.

[00129] The illustrated system for communicating transit signals also includes a signal broadcasting/transmitting module coupled to the vehicle and in communication with the first signal receiving module. In one embodiment of the invention, the signal broadcasting module is configured to broadcast a logical message associated with the transit sign. For instance, the signal broadcasting module may broadcast a logical message associated with the transit sign such as, but not limited to: stop, go, slow down, turn, curve ahead, construction ahead, bridge may be icy, etc., to a user in the vehicle. For example, the signal broadcasting module may include an audio alarm, such as a siren and/or a vocal alarm, for broadcasting a logical message to the user. Similarly, the signal broadcasting module may include a visual alarm, such as a light, an image display, and/or a text display for broadcasting a logical message to the user.

[00130] Further, the system for communicating transit signals, as shown, includes a second signal receiving module coupled to the transit sign, and a second signal transmitting module permanently coupled to the vehicle. In one embodiment of the invention, the second signal receiving module is configured to receive a second signal and the second signal transmitting module is configured to transmit the second signal. In a non-limiting example, the second signal transmitting module may transmit a second signal to the second signal receiving module for modifying or canceling the first signal. For instance, a user, such as a construction worker, may transmit a second signal to change a first signal from "the speed limit is 55 miles per hour" to "construction zone; the speed limit is 45 miles per hour." Similarly, a user, such as a police officer, may transmit a second signal to change a first signal, such as a traffic light, in order to control a length of a red light.

[00131] Accordingly, the second signal transmitting module and the second signal receiving module may each include the following, which are incorporated by reference herein: a vehicle computer system, such as the vehicle computer system of U.S. Patent No. 5,794164, issued to Beckert et al.; a system for transferring information to a motor vehicle, such as the system of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0278080, by Pilgrim et al.; a data transfer interface, such as the data transfer interface of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0114575, by Weisser et al. ; a system and device for providing communication, such as the system and device for providing communication of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2006/0273878, by Michmerhuizen et al.; and a system for migration of multimedia content, such as the system of U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2005/0273473, by Grace et al..

[00132] Furthermore, the first signal transmitting module and the second signal receiving module may be one module, such as a transceiver, or the first signal transmitting module and the second signal receiving module may be two or more separate modules. Likewise, the first signal receiving module and the second signal transmitting module may be one module, such as a transceiver, or the first signal receiving module and the second signal receiving module may be two separate modules. [00133] In another embodiment of the invention, the second signal transmitting module is configured to transmit the second signal to the second signal receiving module upon satisfaction of a second condition. In a non-limiting example, the second condition may include such as, but not limited to: a user preference, a user password, an access code, a security code, a security measure, data modification, etc. Accordingly, modification and/or cancellation of the first signal by transmission of the second signal may be limited to users with verified access.

[00134] In operation of one embodiment of the invention, a user of a system for communicating transit signals enters a vehicle such as a car. The user then provides a first signal receiving module permanently coupled to the vehicle with instructions to receive a first signal a specified distance, such as 100 feet, from a first signal transmitting module coupled to a transit sign. Next, the user travels in the vehicle. When the user travels within 100 feet of the transit sign the first signal transmitting module transmits a first signal to the first signal receiving module. The first signal receiving module then activates a broadcast from a signal broadcasting module to notify the user of a logical message associated with the transit sign. The first signal receiving module also activates a signal response module to provide a vehicle response to the first signal. Then, the user sends a second signal from a second signal transmitting module permanently coupled to the vehicle to a second signal receiving module coupled to the transit sign.

[00135] In an additional embodiment, the method and/or system of transit information may include sending a signal including data associated with advertising, marketing, consumer information from signal transmitting module incorporated into a transit sign, billboard, sign, and/or so forth. Indeed, a signal transmitting module may be incorporated into a pole and/or elongated member. The signal may be encrypted and/or an encryption module may be incorporate into and/or be in communication with the signal transmitting module; thereby providing a protection against unauthorized access to the signal and/or data included therein.

[00136] In another embodiment, vehicle system and/or MCD as described herein may include instructions and/or modules configure to receive the signal. Additionally, decryption modules may be incorporated and/or embodied in the vehicle system and/or MCD, functioning to decrypt a signal. In this regard, the vehicle system and/or MCD may include preference modules, and/or data managing and/or receiving modules, all configured to restrict and/or block receipt, decryption, and/or broadcasting of the signal.

[00137] Network Vehicle Modification

[00138] As illustrated in Figures 12 and 13, there is a method of modifying a vehicle via a network. The method includes: providing a description of a data-set to a vehicle user within a vehicle system through a selection module permanently coupled to the vehicle; enabling a vehicle user to select to receive the data-set; and providing the data-set to the vehicle through a wireless connection. The description of the data-set may be provided to a user through any manner and/or form contemplated in the art. In one non-limiting example, the description of the data set may be provided through the vehicle system as herein described. Indeed, the description of the data-set may include any manner of descriptive data and/or metadata contemplated in the art, such as but not limited to, visual displays, diagrams, text, audio or video tutorials, mechanical drawings and/or schematics, and/or so forth. The description may be broadcast and/or provided through the vehicle system and/or provide through a mobile communication device. [00139] Additionally, as shown in the Figures, a selection module, present in either of the vehicle system and/or the MCD may be used to enable a user to select a desired or preferred data set. Selection module may include a variety of data sets, as well as various manners of exchange value for a data set. The selection module may include any components and/or modules of the vehicle system as described herein. In a non-limiting example, the selection module includes a graphical user interface module enabling easy access, selection and/or transfer of the data set. In alternative embodiment, the data set and/or vehicle modification module is embodied and/or incorporated into a computer chip, flash drive, and/or other insertable or removable data storage module; thereby enabling a user to simply insert the data set in the vehicle system.

[00140] In another embodiment, as shown in Figure 12, the method of modifying a vehicle includes exchanging the data set for value. The value exchanged for the data set may be any type and/or kind of value contemplated in the art, such as but not limited to, credit card, prepaid accounts, and/or credits, wireless transfers, and/or so forth.

[00141] As illustrated in the figures the data set 106 may include instructions for altering a vehicle characteristic of the vehicle system and/or vehicle modification module 104 according to the instructions in the data set. The data set may include instruction for altering a vehicle characteristic associated with: spark plug timing, belt tightness, fluid flow rate, fluid composition ratio, coloring, display image, onboard computer system instructions, a threshold value of activation of a module within the vehicle system, and/or any combinations thereof.

[00142] In one embodiment, the vehicle modification module includes instructions for modifying and/or tuning the timing of the vehicle engine's spark plugs. This may be accomplished in any manner contemplated in the art or as taught in U.S Patent No. 7194999 by Kono et al; U.S Patent No 7198025 by Matsubara et al.; and U.S. Patent No. 7146267 by Sawada et al, which patents are incorporated by reference herein.

[00143] In another embodiment, the vehicle modification module includes instructions for modifying and/or tuning the tightness and/or conditions of the various belts in the vehicle. This may be accomplished in any manner contemplated in the art or as taught in U.S Patent No. 7013704 by Kusters et al. and U.S Patent No 6282873 by Wilken, which are incorporated by reference herein.

[00144] In another embodiment, the vehicle modification module includes instructions for modifying and/or adjusting the fluid levels and/or ratios in the vehicle. This may be accomplished in any manner contemplated in the art or as taught in U.S Patent No. 6527075 Izuchukwu et al. or U.S Patent No 6224032 by Potschin, which are incorporated by reference herein.

[00145] In another embodiment, the vehicle modification module includes instructions for modifying and/or adjusting the tint level and/or coloration levels of the vehicle. This may be accomplished in any manner contemplated in the art or as taught in U.S. Patent No. WO1993007095 by Alvarez et al, U.S. Patent No 5201955 by Chika et al., U.S. Patent No. 6575569 by Castellano, which are incorporated by reference herein.

[00146] In another embodiment, the vehicle modification module includes instructions for modifying and/or adjusting the images, camera modules couples to the vehicle tint level and/or coloration levels of the vehicle. This may be accomplished in any manner contemplated in the art or as taught in U.S Patent No. 4318137 by Cordova et al., U.S. Patent No 7139411 by Fujimura et al, U.S. Patent No. 7078692 by Satou, which are incorporated by reference herein.

[00147] In yet another embodiment, the vehicle modification module includes instructions for modifying and/or adjusting, and/or monitoring the on board diagnostic and general performance of vehicle. This may be accomplished in any manner contemplated in the art or as taught in U.S Patent No. 7155321 by Bromley, which is incorporated by reference herein.

[00148] In yet another embodiment, the vehicle modification module includes instructions for modifying, upgrading to, adjusting, and/or monitoring a traction control system and/or a vehicle anti rollover system on a vehicle. This may be accomplished in any manner contemplated in the art or as taught in U.S. Patent No. 7197387 by Inoue, U.S. Patent No. 7134980 by Kroppe, U.S. Patent No. 7101313 by Kresse, and U.S. Patent No. 7100732 by Felcamp, which are incorporated by reference herein.

[00149] In yet another embodiment, the vehicle modification module includes instructions for modifying, upgrading to, adjusting, and/or monitoring the braking system on a vehicle. This may be accomplished in any manner contemplated in the art or as taught in U.S Patent No. 7168929 by Siegel et al., U.S. Patent No. 7198336 by Yamamoto, U.S. Patent No. 7192386 by Dietzel, which are incorporated by reference herein.

[00150] As illustrated in the figures there is also a system for remote alteration of a characteristic of a vehicle. The system comprises: a wireless communication module; a data storage module permanently coupled to a vehicle and in communication with the wireless communication module, the data storage module configured to store data; a control module in communication with the data storage module and configured to direct operation of the data storage module; and a vehicle modification module permanently coupled to the vehicle, the vehicle modification module in communication with the control module, and being configured to modify the vehicle, the vehicle modification module including instructions for modifying the performance of the vehicle. The wireless communication module, the data storage module may be any type and/or kind of modules and/or systems contemplated in the art or as described herein.

[00151] Additionally, as shown in Figure 11, the system for remote alteration of vehicle may include a mobile communication device, which may or may not include the control module. Advantageously, the use of the MCD in conjunction with the vehicle modification module may enable a user to download/upload a data set into his or her MCD and then subsequently download the data set directly into his or her vehicle system. The user may download the data set via a wireless network, as well as couple the MCD to an input/output module and download the data set directly.

[00152] In a non-limiting exemplary embodiment, advantageously, the vehicle modification module may enable a person to buy an upgraded chip and/or vehicle modification module for their diesel engine in their power stroke engines or other functional component of a vehicle. The vehicle modification module may allow for downloading a leased program for 2 hours, 6 hours or 3 days. In another non- limiting exemplary embodiment, a person going on a trip may purchase and incorporate the data set and/or vehicle modification module from a retailer, travel station, gas station, etc. which have the data set and/or vehicle modification module. In yet another non limiting exemplary embodiment, a person may do a demo just by simply downloading that chip information for 2 hours onto your mobile communication device and then subsequently transmit and/or download it a vehicle system and/or vehicle modification module. Further, this would enable a user to do a testing of that particular software-enabled engine upgrade system; and this would also go for black box information using the mini chips, travel stop downloads, using the kiosks, there you could eventually buy upgrades, tuning systems for all your vehicles, you could also download from the kiosks or from other system that are offering this, the Viper GPS weather information systems at any truck stop or gas station for the recreational person, but this is really for a leased programming system that will tune your engine for efficiency.

[00153] Mobile Utility and Power Monitoring System [00154] As illustrated in Figures 14 and 15, there is a system and method of monitoring utilities. The method of monitoring utilities may comprise: transmitting a wireless signal from a utility meter module and receiving the signal on a mobile signal receiving module. The utility meter module may be any type and/ or kind of utility meter module contemplated in the art. In a non-limiting example the utility meter module includes a utility value transmitting module configured to transmit a utility value. Both the utility meter module and/or the utility value transmitting module may be coupled to a utility meter and/or be embodied and/or incorporated in to a utility meter. In an alternative embodiment, the utility meter module and/or the utility value transmitting module may be simply in communication with the utility meter.

[00155] As shown in the figures, the method of monitoring utilities also includes receiving the signal on a mobile signal receiving module. The mobile signal receiving module may be any type and/or kind of mobile signal receiving module and/or may be incorporated and/or function in any manner contemplated in the art. In a non-limiting example, the mobile signal receiving module is incorporated into and/or comprises into a variety of mobile devices, such as, but not limited to, a MCD, a vehicle, and so forth. Indeed, the mobile signal receiving module may be permanently coupled to a vehicle and/or be embodied in the vehicle system as described herein. In an alternative embodiment, the signal receiving module may be incorporated into utility signaling access points and/or the utility stations.

[00156] Also, as shown in figures, the method includes encrypting the signal. Encrypting the signal may be carried out and/or include any program code contemplated in the art. Indeed, an encryption module may be incorporated into and/or be in communication with the utility meter, the utility meter module, and/or the utility value transmitting module. Advantageously, encrypting the signal may enable access to the signal and/or data included in the signal to be restricted. Additionally, receiving the data may be condition upon a first condition; such as but not limited to, user password, decryption modules, user recognition, MCD and/or vehicle system recognition, and/or so forth.

[00157] Also shown in the figures, the signal may include data associated with a utility value. The utility value may be any type and/or kind of value contemplated in the art and/or associated with utilities, such as but not limited to gas, electric, power, water, sewer, and/or so forth. Some non-limiting examples of a value include: consumption, availability, usage, upgrades, etc. Indeed, the value may be measured in any manner contemplated in the art.

[00158] Additionally, as shown in Figure 17, the utility meter may be in communication with a utility data receiving module communicating a utility value from the utility meter to a mobile communication device. The mobile communication device may be, but not limited to, a PDA. The mobile communication device communicating the utility value to a data storage module. The data storage module is permanently coupled to a vehicle. The data module communicating the utility value to a central utility station to be stored at a central utility station's database. Furthermore, the mobile communication device may include a security module to restrict access to the utility value to unauthorized personnel. The mobile communications devices may be used to measure the utility of gas, power, water, electricity, and/or any combination thereof. Moreover, the utility value may be any value given to represent an amount of gas, power, water, electricity, and/or any combination thereof. In addition, communication may be any type of communication, examples are but not limited to wireless communication.

[00159] In one embodiment of a system of monitoring utility information and data shown in Figure 17; the system may comprise of a utility data calculating module 172 coupled to the utility meter, configured to calculate the utility value. The transmission of the utility value may be through the network communication module/data transmitter module, which is in communication with the utility meter. The mobile communication device is in communication with the utility meter via the network communication module. The data storage module is permanently coupled to a vehicle and is in communication with the mobile communication device, to store data taken from the mobile communication device. The mobile communications devices may be used to measure the utility of gas, power, water, electricity, and/or any combination thereof. Moreover, the utility value may be any value given to represent an amount of gas, power, water, electricity, and/or any combination thereof. In addition, communication may be any type of communication an example is, but is not limited to, a wireless communication.

[00160] In yet another embodiment a system of monitoring utility information and data; the system may comprise a MCD, in the form of a smart phone hybrid PDA which enables a user to transfer information from utility meters from homes and/or businesses to the central utility station's database. The power and light companies could just drive by your house and pick up a chip signal that would monitor exactly how much electricity you were using for that time period; and relay the data to a storage module located within the utility monitor's vehicle. Furthermore, after gathering all the utility values from one area the utility monitor may relay the stored utility values in the vehicle's storage module to the central utility station's database. Gas meters may also be digital in the future, which would enable the readings of the utility value from the utility meters may be done remotely off site and away and/or in close proximity from the actual utility meter. The mobile communications devices may be used to measure the utility of gas, power, water, electricity, and/or any combination thereof. Moreover, the utility value may be any value given to represent an amount of gas, power, water, electricity, and/or any combination thereof. In addition, communication may be any type of communication an example is, but is not limited to, a wireless communication.

[00161] In an additional embodiment, the utility monitoring method and/or system may include upgrading, modifying, providing customer service news, and/or relations, and/or submitting value in exchange for utilities. These may be embodied into one more modules such as but not limited to a utility upgrade module, utility payment module, and/or utility modification module. Indeed, the signal may be encrypted such that a homeowner and/or utility customer may access, modify, and/or submit payments.

[00162] Mobile Education Management System

[00163] As illustrated in Figures 18-22, there is a system for the management and transfer of data between an educational institution 182 and a mobile communication device 18. The educational institution may be any type and/or kind institution contemplated in the art, such as but not limited to, schools, universities, learning centers, colleges, and so forth. The system includes a kiosk 98 located in a educational institution and in communication with a MCD, the kiosk including: a network communication module, configured to provide access to a network; a data storage module in communication with the network communication module, and configured to store data; a control module, in communication with the data storage module, and configured to control data. The control module may include instructions for communication and/or transferring data to and from the MCD. Additionally, the kiosk may include a first user interface module in communication with the control module, and configured to enable user interface with the kiosk. The kiosk may be any type and/or kind of kiosk contemplated in the art which and may function to provide a user interface system. Additionally, the kiosk may be located and/or coupled to any part or region of the educational institution. In an additional embodiment, there may be a plurality of kiosks each in communication with each other and with a MCD.

[00164] Additionally, as illustrated in Figure 20, the user interface module 184 may include one or more audio modules and video modules configured to broadcast and/or display data. Indeed, the user interface module may include any additional modules, components and/or structures contemplated in the art, which function to improve the user interface module. Some non-limiting examples of the additional features include: an data inputting module, such as but not limited to a keyboard, a flash drive and/or USB port, and/or so forth. Indeed, in a non-limiting example, the user interface module, and indeed the kiosk may include a data input/export port configured to receive a MCD. In an additional embodiment, the kiosk may include a plurality of user interface modules, thereby enabling multiple users at a single kiosk. In a further embodiment, the kiosk may be embodied or coupled to an educational vehicle. The educational vehicle may include those vehicles designed to transport persons, vehicles, such as vans, buses, and/or so forth. This would advantageously enable students, faculty, and/or staff the ability to access the network and education data while traveling to and from school, while traveling on school related functions, and so forth.

[00165] Further, as shown in Figure 21, the educational management system 180 may include a plurality of data transmitting modules 65 configured to transmit data, and in communication with the control module, kiosk, and/or indeed, the MCD. Additionally, the data transmitting modules may be located throughout the educational institution. The data transmitting module may be any type and/or kind of data transmitting module contemplated in the art, such as but not limited to, wireless transceivers, antennas and/or so forth currently available in Chipcon products available through Texas Instruments, of Dallas, Texas.

[00166] Further, the educational management system may include a MCD in communication with both the kiosk and a second data storage module. The second storage module may be permanently coupled to a vehicle. Indeed, the second storage module may be incorporated into or be embodied in the vehicle system and include all the components, modules and function associated with the vehicle system, as described herein. Advantageously, in a non limiting example, the educational system enables a student, faculty, staff, or other educational personnel the ability to quickly and easily access educational materials, notes, assignments and so forth then download that data and information to their MCD and/or then subsequently download or transmit and/or transfer that data to the vehicle system.

[00167] Mobile Medical and Healthcare System [00168] As illustrated in Figure 25, there is a method for distributing information among health care providers, the method may comprise observing a health characteristic and recording the observed health characteristics in a data storage module coupled to a gurney disposed with a vehicle. The recorded health characteristics may be displayed on a mobile communication device. The information regarding the observed health characteristics from the mobile communication device may be transferred to a storage module. The storage device is permanently coupled to a vehicle. The health characteristics may be in the form of data, examples include, are but not limited to video images, photo images, audio broadcasts, video broadcasts, medical conditions, medical information, medical x-rays, and/or any other medically used data. The health care providers may be but are not limited to EMTs, nurses, doctors, pharmacists, medical consultants, and/or any medical staff member.

[00169] In one embodiment of a system for communicating and transmitting a signal among health care service facilities and mobile communication devices; the system may comprise a signal transmitting module in communication with a signal receiving module configured to receive a signal. A data storage module is in communication with the signal receiving module to receive data, wherein the data storage module is permanently coupled to a vehicle. A kiosk disposed within a health care facility may be communication with the signal transmitting module and a mobile communication device to transfer data. Furthermore, the data sent in the signal may be but not limited to video images, photo images, audio broadcasts, video broadcasts, medical conditions, medical information, medical x-rays, and/or any other medically used data. In addition, the signal may comprise of a security system wherein the data transferred is encrypted. [00170] In another embodiment, the mobile medical system 190, the MCD and vehicle system may be able to receive and/or download data from a hospital/medical facility 194, such as a hospital, clinic, and/or pharmacy server 196 and visually and/or audibly broadcast the data on a MCD and/or vehicle system. In this way, the MCD vehicle system may allow medical providers in nursing stations or pharmacy groups to do a one-on-one with a physician 192 (also referred to as a doctor or healthcare provider), nurses or other medical staff. In a non-limiting example, the system and method may enable health care providers to conduct patient care remotely through a mobile communication device and/or the vehicle systems as previously described. Further, the extra capacity and/or transferability of the vehicle system may enable a health care provider to administer and/or provide care on while on the road; scanning and analyzing x-ray photographs, test results, etc. Indeed, almost any process or function a doctor or health care personnel and/or provider performs while in the office may be accomplished remotely.

[00171] In a non-exemplary embodiment, a doctor while at home may be able to receive and view video images and/or data from an ambulance which is transporting one or more patients. Indeed, the health care provider, facility and/or personnel may additionally be able to receive patient records and/or data from the hospital, make a potential diagnosis and/or counsel emergency medical technicians, and/or transmit prescription data while en route to the hospital.

[00172] In yet another embodiment of the system, a MCD and/or vehicle system may transmit medical data from a communication device to a pharmacy 196. The system enables the pharmacies to connect directly with a health care provider, facility and/or personnel. The MCD/vehicle system may connect those two systems together and allow a patient to log on and find out where the doctor has allowed his/her prescription to be purchased and/or sent to. This is a deal where the doctor can be completely mobile and send his/her information to any pharmacy location. Furthermore, the health care provider and/or personnel may approve medication without having the client come into the hospital. In addition, the health care provider or personnel may retrieve the medical records from the nursing station and make any necessary evaluations or medical conclusions.

[00173] It is understood that the above-described embodiments are only illustrative of the application of the principles of the present invention. The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described embodiment is to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

[00174] For example, although the vehicle modification system, method, and/or modules describes a few examples of upgrades, tuning, and/or modifications available through the vehicle system, one skilled in the art would realize that the various functions and/or components of a vehicle may be upgraded, tuned, and/or modified through the vehicle computer system. Some non limiting examples of vehicular functions that may be upgraded, tuned, and/or modified include: fuel efficiency, fuel quantity, automatic window tinting, climate control, traction control, spark plug timing, belt tightness, fluid flow rate, fluid composition ratio, coloring, display image, on-board computer system instructions, a threshold value of activation of a module within the vehicle system, and/or so forth.

[00175] Communicating Real Estate Images [00176] Also as shown in Figure 26, there is a method for communicating real estate video and photo images using a mobile communication device. The method may comprise: recording real estate information on location into a mobile communication device; transmitting a signal from the mobile communication device, the signal including real estate information; receiving the signal; storing the signal on a module permanently coupled to a vehicle. Advantageously, the method as described may provide a more efficient, more reliable, quicker manner for real estate sales and marketing personnel to transmit and/or display data concerning one or more real estate properties. The method for MCD to Vehicle Real estate may be carried out or embodied in any manner contemplated in the art, or through the vehicle system as described herein.

[00177] Additionally, in another embodiment, the vehicle system and MCD may be applicable

[00178] It is also envisioned that the one or more signal receiving modules and/or signal transmitting module described herein may be embodiment and/or incorporated into one or more signal transceiver modules.

[00179] Additionally, although the figures illustrate various components of the vehicle system disposed at certain locations in a vehicle, one skilled in the art would understand the various features, components, and/or modules of the vehicle system may be placed and/or incorporated into any location or part of the vehicle.

[00180] It is also envisioned the MCD and vehicle system may include modules, features, and/or components for transmitting and receiving the data such as but not limited to: adaptors for flash drives, memory cards, USB cables, external hard drives, External Hard drives will be accepted on the PDA adapters as well. This allows large storage of Data or Video to be viewed [00181] It is also envisioned that one or more of the MCD and vehicle system modules, features, and/or components may be able to be upgraded, added, modified, or deleted from a vehicle system. Advantageously, this may be done via the network and/or via a MCD. Additionally, the upgrades, modifications may be exchanged for value directly from the vehicle system and/or via the MCD. Alternatively, the data embodied in the signals may be exchanged for value or consideration; thereby enabling a user to access and/or purchase the data and/or signal directly from the MCD and/or vehicle system.

[00182] Additionally, it is envisioned that any type and/or kind of data and/or signals may communicated and/or transmitted as described herein or as taught in U.S. Patent Application Publication No.: 2006/0273878, by Michmerhuizen et al. Indeed, the system and method may enable small to very large data sizes to be downloaded.

[00183] It is also envisioned the MCD to vehicle system may be embodied and/or used to communicate and/or send data to a user's home, office, and/or other location via his or her MCD and/or vehicle system. In a non- limiting example, one or more of the function and/or structural module described herein may be disposed and/or located in user's home or office; thereby enabling him to send and/or transmit data in that regard.

[00184] Thus, while the present invention has been fully described above with particularity and detail in connection with what is presently deemed to be the most practical and preferred embodiment of the invention, it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that numerous modifications, including, but not limited to, variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use may be made, without departing from the principles and concepts of the invention as set forth in the claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A system for communicating a signal between a mobile communication device and a vehicle, comprising: a) a signal receiving module permanently coupled to the vehicle, and configured to receive a signal; b) a data storage module permanently coupled to the vehicle, in communication with the signal receiving module, and configured to store the signal; c) a mobile communication device in communication with the signal receiving module.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a control module in communication with the data storage module, and configured to manage and control data.

3. The system of claim 1, further comprising a signal broadcasting module in communication with the control module, and configured to broadcast a signal receivable by the mobile communication device.

4. The system of claim 1, further comprising a tracking module permanently coupled to the vehicle and in communication with the control module.

5. The system of claim 1, further comprising a scheduling module in communication with the control module, and configured to monitor and maintain a schedule.

6. The system of claim 1 , further comprising a mobile communication device input module coupled to the vehicle and in communication with the data storage module, the mobile communication device input module configured to receive the mobile communication device, thereby physically supporting the mobile communication device and providing wire-based communication between the mobile communication device and the data storage module.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the mobile communication device comprises a PDA having a display and a graphical user interface.

8. The system of claim 1, further comprising a data managing module in communication with the control module, and configured to buffer a portion of the signal.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the signal represents data selected from the group consisting essentially of: video images, photo images, video games, movies, music, books, and any combinations thereof.

10. The system of claim 1, further comprising a kiosk in communication with the data storage module.

11. A method of communicating, comprising: a) selecting a function to be performed through a graphical user interface of a mobile communication device; b) transmitting a first signal from the mobile communication device to a vehicle; c) receiving the first signal; and d) storing the first signal in a module permanently coupled to the vehicle.

12. The method of claim 11, further comprising encrypting the signal.

13. The method of claim 11, further comprising retransmitting the signal through a second signal having enhanced encryption over the signal.

14. The method of claim 11, further comprising: a) transmitting a return signal from the vehicle to the mobile communication device; b) receiving the return signal; and c) storing the return signal in the mobile communication device.

15. The method of claim 11, further comprising tracking a location of the vehicle.

16. The method of claim 11, further comprising broadcasting a second signal in a human-receivable format.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein broadcasting comprises audibly playing the second signal.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein broadcast includes visually displaying the second signal.

19. The method of claim 11, further comprising processing the signal according to a predefined rule- set.

20. The method of claim 11, wherein access is provided to the vehicle upon receipt of the signal.

21. The method of claim 11, wherein the signal represents data selected from the group consisting of: video images, photo images, video broadcast, audio broadcast, video games, movies, music, and any combinations thereof.

22. The method of claim 11, further comprising transmitting and receiving the signal through a wireless access point.

23. A method of communicating transit information, comprising: a) transmitting a first signal from a transit sign having a display surface and a message thereon; and b) receiving the first signal by a module permanently coupled to a vehicle upon the vehicle being within a predetermined distance of the transit sign.

24. The method of claim 25, further comprising encrypting the first signal.

25. The method of claim 23, further comprising broadcasting a logical instruction associated with the message on the display surface of the transit sign.

26. The method of claim 23, further comprising altering a behavior of a vehicle according to the logical instruction associated with the transit sign.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein the behavior of the vehicle includes a behavior from the group of behaviors including: velocity selection, orientation selection, acceleration, and activation status of one or more modules included therein.

28. The method of claim 23, wherein the transit sign is selected from the group consisting essentially of: a construction sign, a traffic sign, a traffic light, and any combinations thereof.

29. The method of claim 23, wherein receiving the first signal occurs upon satisfaction of a first condition.

30. The method claim 23, further comprising: transmitting a second signal from a module permanently coupled to the vehicle; receiving the signal by the transit sign; and automatically responding in accordance with the second signal upon satisfaction of a second condition.

31. The method of claim 30, further comprising encrypting the second signal.

32. The method of claim 30, further comprising retransmitting the second signal from the module.

33. A system for communicating transit signals, comprising: a first signal transmitting module coupled to a transit sign having a display surface including a message, the first signal transmitting module configured transmit a first signal associated with the message; a first signal receiving module permanently coupled to a vehicle, in communication with the first signal transmitting module, and configured to receive the first signal.

34. The system of claim 33, further comprising a signal response module, permanently coupled to the vehicle and in communication with the first signal receiving module; wherein the signal response module includes instructions for responding automatically to a logical message associated with the transit sign.

35. The system of claim 33, wherein the first signal is encrypted.

36. The system of claim 33, further comprising a signal broadcasting module coupled to the vehicle in communication with the signal receiving module, and configured to broadcast the logical message associated with the first transit signal.

37. The system of claim 33, wherein the transit sign is selected from the group consisting essentially of: a construction sign, a traffic sign, a traffic light, an advertising sign, a place of business, and any combinations thereof.

38. The system of claim 33, wherein the first signal receiving module includes instructions for receiving the first signal upon satisfaction of a first condition.

39. The system of claim 33, further comprising: a second signal receiving module coupled to the transit sign, configured to receive a second signal; a second signal transmitting module permanently coupled to the vehicle and configured to transmit the second signal; wherein transmission of the second signal between the second data signal receiving module and the second signal data transmitting module occurs upon satisfaction of a second condition.

40. A method of modifying a vehicle via a network, comprising: providing a description of a data-set to a vehicle user within a vehicle system through a selection module permanently coupled to the vehicle; enabling a vehicle user to select to receive the data-set; and providing the data-set to the vehicle through a wireless connection.

41. The method of claim 40, further comprising exchanging the data-set for value.

42. The method of claim 40, wherein the vehicle system includes a mobile communication device in communication with the selection module and including a graphical user interface whereby the vehicle user is enabled to select to receive the data- set.

43. The method of claim 40, further comprising altering a vehicle characteristic of the vehicle system according to an instruction included within the data-set.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein the vehicle characteristic is selected from the group of characteristics including: spark plug timing, belt tightness, fluid flow rate, fluid composition ratio, coloring, display image, on-board computer system instructions, a threshold value of activation of a module within the vehicle system, and any combinations thereof.

45. A system for remote alteration of a characteristic of a vehicle, comprising: a wireless communication module; a data storage module permanently coupled to a vehicle and in communication with the wireless communication module, the data storage module configured to store data; a control module in communication with the data storage module and configured to direct operation of the data storage module; and a vehicle modification module permanently coupled to the vehicle, the vehicle modification module in communication with the control module, and being configured to modify the vehicle, the vehicle modification module including instructions for modifying the performance of the vehicle.

46. The system of claim 45, wherein the control module comprises a mobile communication device.

47. The system of claim 45, further comprising a mobile communication device input module coupled to the vehicle and in communication with the data storage module, the mobile communication device input module designed to receive a mobile communication device.

48. The system of claim 45, wherein the vehicle modifications are selected from the group consisting essentially of: fuel efficiency, fuel quantity, automatic window tinting, climate control, traction control, and any combinations thereof.

49. A method of monitoring utilities comprising: transmitting a wireless signal from a utility meter module; and receiving the signal on a mobile signal receiving module.

50. The method of claim 49, wherein the signal receiving module is selected from the group consisting essentially of: a mobile communication device, a vehicle and any combinations thereof.

51. The method of claim 49, wherein the signal receiving module is permanently coupled to a vehicle.

52. The method of claim 49, wherein the signal comprises a utility value.

53. The method of claim 49, further comprising encrypting the wireless signal.

54. The method of claim 49, further comprising receiving the signal upon satisfaction of a first condition.

55. The method of claim 49 wherein the utility module is selected from the group consisting of: gas, power, water, electricity, and/or any combinations thereof.

56. A system for monitoring and collecting utility information and data comprising: a utility meter; a signal transmitting module coupled to the utility meter and including instructions for transmitting a utility value; and a signal receiving module in communication with the signal transmitting module, and configured to receive the utility value.

57. The system of claim 56, wherein the signal receiving module is selected from the group consisting essentially of: a mobile communication device, a vehicle, a utility transmitter module, a utility station, and any combinations thereof.

58. The system of claim 56, wherein the signal receiving module is permanently coupled to a vehicle.

59. The system of 56, wherein the signal comprises a utility value.

60. The system of claim 56, wherein the signal is encrypted.

61. The system of claim 56, wherein the signal receiving module further comprises instructions for receiving the signal upon satisfaction of a first condition.

62. The system of claim 56 wherein the utility module/meter is selected from the group consisting of: gas, power, water, electricity, and any combinations thereof.

63. A system for the management and transfer of data from an educational institution to a mobile communication device, the system comprising: a) kiosk disposed in an educational institution and in communication with a mobile communication device, the kiosk including: al) a network communication module, configured to provide access to a network; a2) a data storage module in communication with the network communication module, and configured to store data; a3) a control module, in communication with the data storage module, and configured to control data, wherein the control module includes instructions for communicating educational data directly to the mobile communication device; and a4) a first user interface module in communication with the control module, and configured to enable user interface with the kiosk; b) a mobile communication device in communication with the kiosk; and c) a data storage module permanently coupled to a vehicle and in communication with the kiosk.

64. The system of claim 63, wherein the system further comprises multiple data transmitting modules in communication with the control module and located throughout the educational institution, the data transmitting module configured to transmit data.

65. The system of claim 63, wherein the user interface includes a mobile communication device input module configured to enable data transfer directly between the system and the mobile communication device.

66. The system of claim 63, wherein the kiosk includes a plurality of user interface modules.

67. The system of claim 63, wherein the kiosk is coupled to an educational institution vehicle.

68. A method for distributing information among health care providers, comprising: observing a health characteristic; recording the observed health characteristic in a data storage module coupled to a gurney disposed within a vehicle; removing the gurney from the vehicle together with a patient and the recorded health characteristic; displaying the recorded health characteristic.

69. The method of claim 68, wherein the recorded health characteristic is displayed on a mobile communication device.

70. The method of claim 68, further comprising transmitting a signal from the gurney, the signal including information regarding the observed health characteristic, wherein transmitting the signal occurs upon satisfaction of a first condition.

71. The method of claim 70, wherein the signal represents data selected from the group consisting essentially of: video images, photos images, audio broadcasts, video broadcasts, medical prescription, medical x-ray, and any combination thereof.

72. A system for communicating and transmitting a signal among health care service facilities and mobile communication devices, comprising: a signal transmitting module, a signal receiving module in communication with the signal receiving module and configured to receive the signal; a data storage module, permanently coupled to a vehicle and in communication with the signal receiving module; a kiosk disposed in a health care facility and in communication with the signal transmitting module; and a mobile communication device in communication with the kiosk.

73. The system of claim 72, wherein the signal receiving module comprises a mobile communication device.

74. The system of claim 72, wherein the signal represents data selected from the group consisting essentially of: video images, photos images, audio broadcasts, video broadcasts, medical prescription, medical x-ray, and any combination thereof.

75. The system of claim 72, wherein the signal is encrypted.

76. The system of claim 72, wherein the signal receiving module includes instructions receiving the signal upon satisfaction of a first condition, (user preferences, security access, etc.

77. A method for communicating real estate video and photo images using a mobile communication device, comprising: recording real estate information on location into a mobile communication device; transmitting a signal from the mobile communication device, the signal including real estate information; receiving the signal; storing the signal on a module permanently coupled to a vehicle.