Abstract: A system and method for combining sequential map segments to aggregate, analyze, and display traffic data collected from one or more probe vehicles located on one or more of the map segments.

Abstract: A method is provided for controlling a hybrid vehicle powertrain, including recording a starting and ending point of a desired route, determining an optimally fuel efficient route, and executing a powertrain control strategy based on the route. Real-time traffic data and topographical data are continuously evaluated, and the route and powertrain control strategy are updated based on the data. A hybrid vehicle is also provided having an engine, a motor/generator, a battery, and a navigation system for receiving a route starting point and ending point. A powertrain control module (PCM) detects the battery charge and determines a powertrain strategy along an optimally fuel efficient route based on the detected charge level when the points are selected, and sustains the charge level in the absence of user-selected route points. Sensors receive real-time traffic data, and the navigation system includes topographical data for determining the optimally fuel efficient route.

Abstract: The invention includes cohort analysis as an element of an in-vehicle navigation system. As an operator makes trips from an origin to a destination, the navigation system records various route segments chosen. These choices are compared to route segments comprising a minimal time route calculated for the trip. Segments not part of the prescribed route are collected and periodically sent along with the origin and destination to a centralized server, wherein they are stored in a database. The central server also has an extensive map database that lists many attributes for each segment not generally included in an in-vehicle database. The attributes include variables pertaining to traffic flow, e.g. speed, number of lanes, lane width; topology, e.g. possible turns at endpoints; geometry, e.g. horizontal shape, vertical curvature, and super-elevation; usage, e.g. freeway, arterial, local, residential, business; and topography, e.g. buildings, trees, open-space, facilities, and stores.

Abstract: A vehicle traffic monitoring apparatus includes an imaging device; an image processing device; a global positioning device; and, a wireless communications system. The image processing device includes a computer program to process a data stream from the imaging device, to recognize individual vehicles substantially in view of the vehicle; and, quantify motion of the recognized individual vehicles. A second data stream is a signal output from the image processing device and includes code representing the recognized individual vehicles in view of the vehicle, quantified motion of the recognized vehicles; and vehicle position data from the global positioning system receiver. The wireless communications device receives the second data stream and communicates it a remote device. Localized traffic is monitored in metrics of traffic density, congestion, and, turbulence.

Abstract: An on-vehicle system for identifying and reporting external conditions is presented. The system has an operator-selectable user interface to identify occurrence of an external condition, a global positioning system receiver; and, a wireless communications system. The unit may be used to assist in discovering localized roadway conditions that adversely affect safety and travel. The unit is placeable into a vehicle of a volunteer, is manually operated whenever a hazard is detected. Reportable hazards include potholes, obstacles or debris in the highway, snow or ice patches, fog, unusual traffic or pedestrian activity, and localized incidences, such as presence of disabled or emergency vehicles. Nature of the hazard is indicatable by manual activation of additional push buttons or other suitable devices. A GPS receiver is incorporated to estimate position, speed, and heading of the hazard. The information is encoded as a message sent to a central server.