Transmitter In Another Vehicle (e.g., Emergency Vehicle) Patents (Class 340/902)
  • Publication number: 20140306834
    Abstract: A system for vehicle to another party communications that includes a vehicle personality module adapted to create a vehicle personality and a communications system that utilizes the created vehicle personality for one or more communications instead of a user's profile. The one or more communications are associated with one or more of an identifier and an icon representing the vehicle personality, with this identifier and/or icon sent with at least one communication and displayable to the recipient of the communication.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Applicant: Flextronics AP, LLC
    Inventor: Christopher P. Ricci
  • Publication number: 20140300493
    Abstract: A vehicle communication system including a communications link and optionally a vehicle position indicator provided at a facility. A visual indicator is provided that is attachable to or usable in a non-official passenger vehicle to alert other road users that a vehicle is traveling in an emergency situation. A communications link and optionally a vehicle position locator are also attachable to or usable in a non-official passenger vehicle to communicate with the facility to alert the facility that the vehicle is traveling to the facility in an emergency situation. The visual indicator may be a flashing light, or a lighted warning message or symbol, and may be a one-time use light or may be operable only after receipt of an activation code from the facility.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2013
    Publication date: October 9, 2014
    Inventor: Mark Tremonti
  • Patent number: 8849553
    Abstract: A vehicle-mounted driving supporting device 2 supports driving on the basis of the presence of a nonpriority vehicle A entering a priority road 50 from a nonpriority road 40. The vehicle-mounted driving supporting device 2 includes an information provision determination device 34 which, when a host vehicle is traveling on the priority road 50, determines whether or not driving support is required on the basis of the specification regarding driving support of the nonpriority vehicle A received from the outside. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a driver from feeling bothered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Katsuhiro Matsuoka
  • Patent number: 8842021
    Abstract: A system and method for warning of emergency vehicles includes a computing device that receives location data from a transmitter associated with a first vehicle based on a warning system of the first vehicle being activated. The computing device transmits vehicle notification data to a second vehicle based on the location data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 23, 2014
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Gary W. Behm, William B. Huber, Alfred J. Noll, Raul A. Pelaez
  • Patent number: 8838321
    Abstract: A method is provided that includes receiving user input identifying a travel destination for a first vehicle, determining, by a processor, a first route for the first vehicle to follow, and configuring the first vehicle to follow the first route. The method further includes obtaining a model for a second vehicle that shares a road with the first vehicle and comparing model to a pre-determined template for a vehicle that is known to be a special purpose vehicle in order to determine whether the first template and the second template match. The method further includes determining, by the processor, a second route that leads to the travel destination, when a match is found to exist, and switching the first vehicle from following the first route to following the second route.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2014
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventor: David I. Ferguson
  • Patent number: 8830085
    Abstract: Approaches for monitoring traffic signal preemption at one or more intersections. According to one embodiment, a road map that includes a plurality of roads and intersections is displayed with a computer system. Preemption data periodically received by the computer system from at least one preemption controller at a respective intersection is used to update the road map. In response to the preemption data, the road map is updated to include a traffic signal icon at the respective intersection and a vehicle icon at a location on the map corresponding to a location of a vehicle transmitting a preemption request as indicated by the preemption data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Global Traffic Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David John Edwardson, David R. Johnson, Kevin Clare Eichhorst, Patrick Keenan Cosgrove, Nicole Maria Montgomery
  • Patent number: 8823578
    Abstract: A driving assist apparatus for a vehicle is disclosed. The driving assist apparatus includes a transmitter for transmitting a transmission wave, a receiver for receiving a reflected wave, an obstacle presence determination section for detecting a presence of an obstacle in the surrounding of the vehicle based on the reflected wave, a measurement section for measuring a frequency of phase delay and advance of the reflected wave with respect to a reference signal, and a detection section for detecting the obstacle having a specific relation with the vehicle based on the presence of the obstacle determined by the obstacle presence determination section and the frequency of delay and the frequency of advance measured by the measurement section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignees: Denso Corporation, Nippon Soken, Inc.
    Inventors: Toshihiro Hattori, Mitsuyasu Matsuura
  • Patent number: 8823548
    Abstract: Controlling a traffic signal phase at one or more intersections. A control system at an intersection is configured to operate in one of a first mode or a second mode. While operating the controller in the first mode, in response to a transit priority signal received by the control system from a vehicle assigned transit priority, a green phase of the traffic signal is extended in favor of the vehicle assigned transit priority. While operating the control system in the second mode, in response to a transit priority signal received by the control system from the vehicle assigned transit priority, a current non-green phase of the traffic signal is preempted to a green phase in favor of the vehicle assigned transit priority.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Global Traffic Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: David Randal Johnson, Kevin Eichhorst
  • Patent number: 8797181
    Abstract: Control devices and methods for a road toll system that is based on on-board units carried by vehicles, comprising: in a marking vehicle detecting a traffic or toll violation of an on-board unit, and, if a violation exists, transmitting a marker to the on-board unit via a DSRC radio interface; in an on-board unit periodically determining, upon receipt of a marker, the position of the unit and broadcasting a position message containing the respective current position; and in the control unit: detecting the vehicle based on at least one of the position messages that are broadcast by the on-board unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignee: Kapsch TrafficCom AG
    Inventors: Alexander Leopold, Oliver Nagy
  • Patent number: 8797182
    Abstract: A vehicle operator signaling system includes a pair of units with each having a control circuit and a transceiver coupled to the control circuit. A plurality of emitters is coupled to the control circuit. A plurality of actuators is coupled to the control circuit and each is associated with one of the emitters. The transceiver of one of the housings emits a distinct signal associated with an actuated one of the actuators and the transceiver of the one of the housings turns on the emitter associated with the distinct signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Inventor: Chad Howe
  • Publication number: 20140210643
    Abstract: An emergency respondence warning system for warning of the approach of emergency vehicles at roadway intersections. The warning system comprises a transmitter mountable to an emergency vehicle and a receiver situated near the roadway intersection. As the emergency vehicle approaches the intersection, the transmitter sends signals to the receiver, which are processed by the receiver when the vehicle is within a predetermined distance. The receiver activates a distinct visual warning signal alerting nearby drivers and pedestrians of the approach of an emergency vehicle. The emergency respondence warning system also warns of the approach of multiple emergency vehicles. When the receiver determines that two emergency vehicles are approaching the intersection, it activates the warning element but triggers a dedicated visual signal indicating the approach of multiple vehicles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 28, 2014
    Publication date: July 31, 2014
    Inventor: Paul Alan Baker
  • Patent number: 8793050
    Abstract: A communication system of a motor vehicle is provided. The communication system includes a vehicle operating unit, a vehicle output unit, and an interface computer. The interface computer is connected to the vehicle operating unit and the vehicle output unit. The interface computer is implemented for the purpose of connecting a mobile terminal to the vehicle operating unit and the vehicle output unit such that information from the mobile terminal is displayable on the vehicle output unit and the mobile terminal is operable via the vehicle operating unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Ulrich Weinmann, Jens-Peter Weiss, Thomas Stauner, Wolfram Manthey
  • Patent number: 8775060
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are described for lateral control of a host vehicle (F) during travel in a vehicle platoon. The apparatus and method include acquiring a control signal u and a lateral error ? relative to a target vehicle (L) of a preceding vehicle (T) travelling in the vehicle platoon, filtering the received lateral error ?, filtering the received control signal u, and executing via a processor a control algorithm for actuating lateral control of the host vehicle (F).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Assignee: Volvo Car Corporation
    Inventors: Stefan Solyom, Badr Bin Salamah, Arash Idelchi
  • Patent number: 8768619
    Abstract: A road side data exchange net and method thereof is provided. The road side data exchange net includes a plurality of road side data exchange devices set on neighboring roads separately. The road side data exchange device includes a positioning system for receiving satellite data regularly, a calculator for calculating a calibration value of the satellite data to generate an analyzed result data, and a database for storing the analyzed result data. Further, each of the road side data exchange devices broadcasts the analyzed result data from its database to all of neighboring road side data exchange devices to provide the analyzed result data to an electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: National Tsing Hua University
    Inventors: Yu-Tsen Hsieh, Chih-Wei Hsu, Yuan-Po Cheng, Ming-Jer Tsai
  • Patent number: 8766814
    Abstract: A motorman's cab display system includes a motorman's cab display apparatus that can automatically adjust display luminance of a display device without using an illuminance sensor. The motorman's cab display apparatus determines, based on location information of a train transmitted from a train information control system, whether the train is traveling in a tunnel, sets, when determining that the train is traveling in the tunnel, as the luminance of a display screen, luminance for inside of tunnel set in advance, and sets, when determining that the train is traveling outside the tunnel, as luminance of the display screen, luminance information for outside of tunnel set in advance. A display control method for motorman's cab display apparatuses includes: calculating a traveling location of the train; and adjusting the luminance of the display screen according to the luminance information output from a luminance determining unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2014
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Norishige Emoto, Kengo Kobatake
  • Patent number: 8754781
    Abstract: A control method for a road toll system using vehicle-based on-board units, recording vehicles, control vehicles, cellular mobile communication networks, and switching servers, comprising: registering a recording vehicle identifier and a mobile communication network cell identifier in the switching server; selecting a cell identifier in a control vehicle and transmitting the same with a control vehicle identifier to the switching server; associating the control vehicle identifier with the recording vehicle identifier for which a cell identifier that is identical to the selected cell identifier is registered; detecting a traffic or toll violation by means of the recording vehicle and transmitting a violation data record to the switching server, determining the assigned control vehicle identifier; transmitting the violation data record to the control vehicle identified by the determined identifier; and processing the violation data record in the control vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2013
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2014
    Assignee: Kapsch TrafficCom AG
    Inventors: Alexander Leopold, Oliver Nagy
  • Patent number: 8742946
    Abstract: A traffic preemption system comprising an intersection control module, an intersection preemption unit comprising a signal detector configured to receive a signal transmitted by a vehicle preemption unit mounted to a vehicle and a remotely located electronic device comprising a controller configured to detect a variation in voltage. The system further comprises a cable coupling the intersection controller, the intersection preemption unit, and the remotely located electronic device, the cable comprising a power wire configured to carry a modulated voltage level and share power among the intersection preemption unit and the remotely located electronic device, a ground wire, and a communications wire configured to transmit a communications signal between the intersection preemption unit and the intersection controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Tomar Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: David G. Worthy, Timothy A. Geiger
  • Publication number: 20140139354
    Abstract: There are provided a vehicle-to-vehicle communication means to transmit and receive vehicle information by wireless communication with another vehicle, a memory to store vehicle information of a host vehicle and vehicle information of the other vehicle received by the vehicle-to-vehicle communication means, and a server communication means to transmit the vehicle information of the host vehicle and the vehicle information of the other vehicle stored in the memory, to a server. Therefore, the vehicle information of a vehicle can be transmitted even when the vehicle is outside the communication zone of communication with the server.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 10, 2012
    Publication date: May 22, 2014
    Inventor: Yasuhito Miyazaki
  • Patent number: 8725395
    Abstract: A first leader vehicle system and method for forming a first group including the first leader vehicle system is disclosed. The first leader vehicle system comprises a requesting module, a determination module and an aggregation module. The requesting module identifies a second leader vehicle system within a transmission range. The second leader vehicle system is in a second group. The requesting module chooses a first merging direction and receives a second merging direction chosen by the second leader vehicle system. The determination module determines that the first merging direction matches the second merging direction. The aggregation module aggregates probe vehicle data from the second leader vehicle system based at least in part on the determination that the first merging direction matches the second merging direction so that the first leader vehicle system merges with the second leader vehicle system to form the first group.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Junichiro Fukuyama
  • Patent number: 8723680
    Abstract: An emergency respondence warning system for warning of the approach of emergency vehicles at roadway intersections. The warning system comprises a transmitter mountable to an emergency vehicle and a receiver situated near the roadway intersection. As the emergency vehicle approaches the intersection, the transmitter sends signals to the receiver, which are processed by the receiver when the vehicle is within a predetermined distance. The receiver activates a distinct visual warning signal alerting nearby drivers and pedestrians of the approach of an emergency vehicle. The emergency respondence warning system also warns of the approach of multiple emergency vehicles. When the receiver determines that two emergency vehicles are approaching the intersection, it activates the warning element but triggers a dedicated visual signal indicating the approach of multiple vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Inventor: Paul Alan Baker
  • Patent number: 8710978
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for a vehicle to communicate with another vehicle or with an infrastructure device which has a particular range which is dependent on the current position of the vehicle. In order to ensure correct operation of the communication, the range to be expected for the communication is derived inter alia from the nature of the surroundings, which is dependent on the current position of the vehicle. The invention also relates to an appropriate apparatus for communication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Continental Teves AG & Co. oHG
    Inventors: Ulrich Stählin, Adam Swoboda, Thomas Grotendorst, Christian Thur
  • Patent number: 8712676
    Abstract: Probe data is analyzed to derive Longitudinal Speed Profiles (LSPs) and an Optimal Longitudinal Speed Profile (18) for each road segment or link in a digital map network. The Longitudinal Speed Profiles (LSPs) profiles are calculated during defined time spans whereas the Optimal Longitudinal Speed Profile (18) is based on the LSP for the time span corresponding only to free flow traffic conditions. All of the LSPs can used to create a respective energy cost for each time span, or only the OLSP (18) can be used (or alternatively the RRDSL 16 or LRRDSL 17) to calculate an energy cost for the free flow conditions only. The energy cost can be used to predict the energy required by a vehicle to traverse the link. Navigation software can use the energy cost to plan the most energy efficient route between two locations in the digital map. Sensory signals can be activated if a driver strays from the Optimal Longitudinal Speed Profile (18) to achieve extremely high levels of energy efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: TomTom Global Content B.V.
    Inventors: Volker Hiestermann, Robert Joannes Van Essen, Edwin Bastiaensen, Stephen T'Siobbel
  • Patent number: 8710970
    Abstract: Systems and methods which allow a spotter external to a vehicle to provide signals to a driver of the vehicle in order to facilitate safe backup operations of the vehicle are disclosed. A wireless transmitter, in wireless communication with a receiver positioned within the vehicle, is operated by the spotter. An indicator, also in communication with the receiver, is configured to provide a plurality of audible and/or visible signals perceivable by the driver in response to a wireless signal received by the receiver from the transmitter. The audible and/or visible signals may comprise selected patterned tones and lights which inform the driver whether they should proceed to backup the vehicle or stop the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Reverse Control, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher L. Oelrich, Curtis John Oelrich
  • Publication number: 20140077972
    Abstract: A portable electronic device can be used to present vehicle-specific information to a user. The portable electronic device can receive a message transmitted from a vehicle, the message including a unique vehicle identifier such as vehicle identification number (VIN). The portable electronic device can identify content based at least in part on the unique vehicle identifier, and present the content to the user. In some instances, the content may be presented to the user as audio output and/or visually on a display screen. Input can also be received from the user, and the portable electronic device can identify the content based in part on the received input and in part on the unique vehicle identifier.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Shailesh Rathi, Robert J. Walsh
  • Patent number: 8676151
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method that provides a standardized and portable automatic emergency event notification, or AEEN, device which detects a vehicle or other transport emergency event and then automatically and directly dials 911 emergency services and further provides the 911 operator with important information pertaining to the emergency event. Ordinary transport owners may readily install the AEEN device of the present invention into their vehicle or other transport. The AEEN device does not involve a subscription service and the device cellphone which places the 911 call does not require activation on a wireless service network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Guardity Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Joseph Thomas Mader, Thomas Edward Mader, Russell Carl McKown
  • Publication number: 20140070962
    Abstract: An aspect of some embodiments of the present invention relates to a warning system for use in an emergency vehicle. The system comprises a tone generator, configured for generating an output alert signal, and a radio wave generator. The radio wave generator is configured for receiving the output alert signal and encoding the output alert signal into an electrical signal, and for converting the electrical signal into an electromagnetic wave configured for being received by a radio and/or a cellular communication device within a desired distance from the emergency vehicle, thus enabling the receiving radio and/or cellular communication device to convert the electromagnetic wave to an audio signal that can be emitted by the radio and/or cellular communication device to warn a user of a proximity of the emergency vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 20, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Inventor: Kim Tamar Holland
  • Publication number: 20140070961
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to traffic control systems that electronically disseminate locally relevant information to street traffic. Various embodiments relate to systems and methods for supplying a network connection from a traffic controller system in a traffic controller cabinet to an electronic display. Various embodiments include TCC systems, methods, and mediums that control a traffic signal using traffic control circuitry, display selected display content on an electronic display, basing the selection on several factors, including information regarding the controlled traffic signal. The various embodiments also communicate with the network that is coupled to the traffic control circuitry, all while protecting the electronic display from environmental factors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2012
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicant: SIEMENS INDUSTRY, INC.
    Inventors: Benjamin Collar, James Kelly Allen
  • Publication number: 20140062724
    Abstract: Electronic equipment in vehicles may transmit and receive wireless messages. Each wireless message that is transmitted by a transmitter may include information on the vehicle from which it is being transmitted, information on the location of the transmitter within the vehicle, and other vehicle status information. Receiving equipment in vehicles may be used to receive the transmitted messages. Received signal strength indicator information may be associated with the transmitted messages. Using the received signal strength indicator information and information on the locations of the transmitters within the vehicles in which the transmitters are installed, equipment in a receiving vehicle may determine locations for nearby vehicles. Alerts may be presented to a driver of a vehicle and other suitable actions may be taken based on the locations of nearby vehicles, vehicle type information, and other information regarding traffic in the vicinity of the driver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 6, 2012
    Publication date: March 6, 2014
    Inventors: Devrim Varoglu, Ravisastry Parupudi
  • Patent number: 8665816
    Abstract: An on-vehicle device sends an allocation request for a wireless resource to a roadside device. The roadside device, in response to receiving this allocation request, allocates a roadside-vehicle resource that is a wireless resource for roadside-vehicle communication with the on-vehicle device, and an inter-vehicle resource that is a wireless resource for inter-vehicle communication between on-vehicle devices; and sends the allocation information to the on-vehicle device. The on-vehicle device carries out roadside-vehicle communication with the roadside device using the roadside-vehicle resource identified with the allocation information received from the roadside device, and carries out inter-vehicle communication with other on-vehicle devices using the inter-vehicle resource identified with the allocation information. Thereby, roadside-vehicle communication and inter-vehicle communication can be achieved with higher utilization of wireless resources while avoiding the hidden terminal problem.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Fujitsu Limited
    Inventors: Yusuke Suzuki, Mamoru Machida
  • Patent number: 8645053
    Abstract: The relative position of one vehicle vs. another vehicle, both driving in a vehicular environment, is determined using vehicular communications based on the IEEE 802.11 standard. The relative position determination is performed in a measuring vehicle using data provided by a measured vehicle through IEEE 802.11 communications carried through beacons as well as GPS or other location data and local map information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Autotalks Ltd.
    Inventor: Onn Haran
  • Patent number: 8638237
    Abstract: A vehicle awareness system for alerting the driver of a motor vehicle the approaching from the rear side of a motorcycle, and for reporting to the rider of the motorcycle that the driver of the motor vehicle has been alerted. The system comprises (a) a motorcycle unit, located on the motorcycle, for transmitting signals toward the traveling lane of that motorcycle; (b) a car unit, located in the motor vehicle, for receiving signals transmitted from the motorcycle unit, and accordingly supplying one or more output signals indicative of the approach of the motorcycle; (c) first warning means, activated by the output signals, for alerting the driver of the motor vehicle regarding the approach of the motorcycle from the rear side; and (d) second warning means, activated by the same output signals, for signaling the driver of the motorcycle that the first warning means are active.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Janus Interface Ltd.
    Inventors: Gabi Charlie Robaz, Avner Ben-Zaken
  • Patent number: 8618952
    Abstract: A method of identifying an intersection for a collision warning system is disclosed. The method includes steps of selecting an identified intersection where a driver intends to turn from a set of potential intersections. The collision warning system is then controlled according to the identified intersection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yutaka Mochizuki
  • Publication number: 20130335236
    Abstract: The present technology provides a communication system which allows a first operator of a vehicle to signal an operator of a second vehicle. The first operator may transmit a notification signal via a first transceiver to a second transceiver associated with the second operator with a specific message, such as “stop.” When the second transceiver receives the notification signal, a visual indicator may be provided to the operator of the second vehicle. The second transceiver may also automatically transmit a confirmation signal upon receiving the notification signal. By receiving the notification signal, the first user may be informed that the notification signal was received by the second transceiver. By providing for a notification signal and an automated confirmation signal in response, the present system informs the first user the confidence that his transmitted signal was received.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2012
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Inventor: Tom Tippets
  • Patent number: 8610596
    Abstract: Management of traffic signal preemption control equipment. In one approach, logged preemption data is periodically read from each of a plurality of intersections having respective preemption controllers for preempting traffic signals at the intersections. The logged preemption data at an intersection describes operational states of the preemption controller and each vehicle control unit that submitted a preemption request at the intersection and data describing each individual preemption request. The logged preemption data read from the plurality of intersections are stored in a database. The database is monitored for data indicative of changes in operational status of the traffic signal preemption control equipment. In response to the data indicating a change in operational status, data descriptive of the change are output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2013
    Assignee: Global Traffic Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: David Randal Johnson
  • Patent number: 8604940
    Abstract: A vehicle communication system including a communications link and optionally a vehicle position indicator provided at a medical facility. A visual indicator is provided that is temporarily attachable to or usable in a non-official passenger vehicle to alert other road users that a vehicle is traveling in an emergency situation. A communications link and optionally a vehicle position locator are also temporarily attachable to or usable in a non-official passenger vehicle to communicate with the medical facility to alert the medical facility that the vehicle is traveling to the medical facility in an emergency situation. The visual indicator may be a flashing light, or a lighted warning message or symbol, and may be a one-time use light or may be operable only after receipt of an activation code from the medical facility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Inventor: Mark Tremonti
  • Patent number: 8604919
    Abstract: The described method and system provide an early notification to emergency responders regarding a non-nominal condition associated with a vehicle involved in a collision. The system provides a short range wireless system controller in communication with a battery controller. The short range wireless system controller is further in communication with a communications device associated with an emergency responder via broadcast over a short range wireless RF network. If battery physical parameters indicate that the battery has suffered damage rendering the vehicle inoperable, this battery damage information is broadcast over the short range wireless RF network to the communications device associated with the emergency responder. In this way, the emergency responder can quickly aid incident victims without time lost in determining whether or not the high voltage vehicle battery is in a nominal state after the crash.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Assignee: General Motors, LLC
    Inventor: Scott W. Otterson
  • Patent number: 8599038
    Abstract: A vehicular wireless communication apparatus is disposed in a subject vehicle to establish vehicle-to-vehicle communication between the subject vehicle and other vehicles having the apparatus. The apparatus of the subject vehicle receives sensor state information from an immediate following vehicle. Based on the sensor state information, the apparatus of the subject vehicle controls a transmission cycle of the information transmitted. A longer interval is selected when the immediate following vehicle has a range sensor and the range sensor successfully detects an obstacle in front of it. A standard interval, shorter than the longer interval, is selected when the immediate following vehicle does not have the range sensor or when the immediate following vehicle has the range sensor but the range sensor failed to detect the obstacle. Therefore, the transmission cycle is dependent upon the need of the information while preventing congestion of information transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventor: Takahisa Yamashiro
  • Patent number: 8599041
    Abstract: A traffic light control apparatus and method is provided. The traffic light control apparatus for controlling an emergency vehicle in a traffic network includes: a traffic network control unit configured to determine overall traffic network control and traffic light control for supporting movement of the emergency vehicle during an emergency and transmit a control signal; a traffic light control unit configured to receive the control signal to control a traffic light; and an emergency vehicle control unit configured to transmits a traffic light control mode cancellation request signal to the controlled traffic light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute
    Inventors: Hyoungsoo Lim, So-Ra Park, Heung-Mook Kim, Soo-In Lee
  • Patent number: 8593300
    Abstract: A vehicle approach warning system is disclosed. The vehicle approach warning system includes: an in-vehicle communication apparatus to be mounted to a vehicle, the in-vehicle communication apparatus being configured to wirelessly transmit vehicle travel data to surroundings of the vehicle; and a portable warning terminal to be carried by a pedestrian, the portable warning terminal being configured to give, in response to receiving the vehicle travel data wirelessly transmitted from the in-vehicle communication apparatus, a warning about approach of the vehicle to the pedestrian in a way other than auditory stimulation if electric field strength at a time of receiving the vehicle travel data is larger than a threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Hiromitsu Ooshima, Satoshi Nakamura
  • Patent number: 8593301
    Abstract: A method and system for transmitting a warning message to a driver of a vehicle is provided. Authorization for uploading message data is provided followed by the provision of message data indicative of a plurality of pre-recorded warning messages. The message data are then stored in memory of the transmitter. A responder of the emergency vehicle selects one of the plurality of pre-recorded warning messages. The message data associated with the selected warning message are then encoded and encrypted. The encrypted message data are then processed to generate a RF signal in dependence thereupon which is then transmitted to the vehicle. Upon receipt of the RF signal at the vehicle message data are generated in dependence thereupon which are then decrypted and decoded.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Inventor: Timothy Newman
  • Patent number: 8587421
    Abstract: When determining a collision possibility of a vehicle while an emergency report is not being executed, an in-vehicle emergency report apparatus secures a wireless communications resource by one of the following: (i) Rejecting a connection request for connecting a wireless communications link from a navigation system to a wireless communications device in respect of another use other than an emergency report; (ii) Disconnecting the wireless communications link connected by the wireless communications device according to a connection request from the navigation system in respect of another use other than an emergency report; (iii) Notifying the navigation system of prohibition of connecting the wireless communications link by the wireless communications device in another use other than an emergency report; and (iv) Restricting a connection band of the wireless communications link in the wireless communications device in respect of another use other than an emergency report from the navigation system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventor: Yoshio Koie
  • Patent number: 8583320
    Abstract: A computer readable storage medium includes executable instructions to receive from a mobile device a request regarding a stranded vehicle. The request is processed to determine the location of the stranded vehicle. Additional information regarding the stranded vehicle may be retrieved. The location of the stranded vehicle and the additional information may be communicated as a dispatch request. The location of the stranded vehicle relative to a dispatched vehicle is delivered to the mobile device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Esurance Insurance Services, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick Miles Harris, Deepak Kumar Srinivasan, Philip James Swift, Paul David Sykes
  • Patent number: 8581744
    Abstract: A driver alert apparatus and related systems. The driver alert apparatus includes a controller and a wireless receiver connected to the controller and configured to receive data from a transmitter. The driver alert apparatus includes an at least partially transparent packaging containing the controller and receiver. The driver alert apparatus includes a speaker and visual indicator connected to be controlled by the controller, such that the speaker and visual indicator are controllably activated by the controller based on the received data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Lamar University
    Inventor: Harley Ross Myler
  • Publication number: 20130293394
    Abstract: A vehicle communication system providing, in one embodiment, wirelessly transmitting and receiving messages regarding the status of parking spaces, such as empty or occupied. Only vehicles belonging to a predetermined set are able to decrypt such messages, in one embodiment. Message formats to comprise a group of parking spaces are described. An embodiment includes a communication mode specific for vehicles in a parking lot. An embodiment includes messages describing the shape and size of vehicle entering or leaving a parking space. Efficient methods of coding vehicle type are described. Methods of improving the operational efficiency of a vehicle communication system, including passive RF reflectors, audio and video messages, safety, courtesy and social messages, and compliance with vehicle restrictions are in some embodiments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2013
    Publication date: November 7, 2013
    Applicant: Zetta Research and Development, LLC–ForC Series
    Inventors: Kim T. Rubin, Jonathan Betts-Lacroix
  • Publication number: 20130271291
    Abstract: A method of alerting an operator of a vehicle of a hazardous condition. The steps include sending a warning signal with a transceiver from a first vehicle that is received by a transceiver in a second vehicle. The transceiver then sends a signal to the computing device of the second vehicle that actuates an indicating assembly in order to alert a driver that a hazardous condition is in their area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 16, 2012
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventor: Nathaniel J. Tebbe
  • Patent number: 8552885
    Abstract: An emergency service warning system is described herein that is arranged to warn a user of approach of emergency services. The system includes movable emergency service transmitters (T) and at least one receiver (M, R), arranged to receive signals transmitted by the emergency service transmitters (T). The system is provided with at least one stationary emergency service communication device (M) for the purpose of communication with the emergency service transmitter (T) utilizing emergency service signals. The system includes at least one user receiver (R) which is arranged to detect emergency service signals and to deliver a warning signal upon detection of an emergency service signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 10, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Phyco Trading B.V.
    Inventor: Johan Rijks
  • Patent number: 8537214
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for adjustment of a harmonization compensation applied to alleviate a discrepancy of conformity between a video image transmitted by a video transducer (1) and projected by a head-up display device (5, 6), of an aircraft, and an external scene ahead of the aircraft. At least one equipment item of the aircraft—preferably the said HUD device—equipped with at least one control element accessible in the cockpit, is programmed to be able to function according to a nominal mode and according to a maintenance mode, in which at least one of its control elements, known as a redirected control element, is used to define the applied harmonization compensation. An operator activates the maintenance mode and starts an adjustment operation, in which he modifies in real time the applied harmonization compensation, by manipulating at least one redirected control element, until the video image is matched with the external scene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: Airbus Operations SAS
    Inventors: Sandra Poussin, David Bideau, Laurent Coloma, Stephane Gauthier
  • Publication number: 20130229289
    Abstract: A system adapted to provide a warning to a vehicle operator of nearby hazards, e.g., that a nearby vehicle has been in a collision or is otherwise inoperable. Embodiments include a detector operable to detect a hazard, a transmitter to transmit a warning signal, a receiver to receive a transmitted warning signal, and a display to warn the operator of an approaching vehicle of the hazard. Some embodiments incorporate feedback from a vehicle's airbag deployment circuitry to provide a trigger effective to broadcast the warning signal. The operator of an approaching vehicle may be provided with a visual and/or an audible warning signal, e.g., via a cellular telephone. Certain embodiments provide such warning to approaching vehicles via the transmitted warning signal and a display and/or speaker carried in the approaching vehicle. Audible and visual warnings may be transmitted directly from the crashed vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2011
    Publication date: September 5, 2013
    Applicant: BCS Business Consulting Services Pte Ltd
    Inventors: Philippe Bensoussan, Chantal Burnison
  • Publication number: 20130201034
    Abstract: Control devices and methods for a road toll system that is based on on-board units carried by vehicles, comprising: in a marking vehicle detecting a traffic or toll violation of an on-board unit, and, if a violation exists, transmitting a marker to the on-board unit via a DSRC radio interface; in an on-board unit periodically determining, upon receipt of a marker, the position of the unit and broadcasting a position message containing the respective current position; and in the control unit: detecting the vehicle based on at least one of the position messages that are broadcast by the on-board unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 1, 2013
    Publication date: August 8, 2013
    Applicant: Kapsch TrafficCom AG
    Inventor: Kapsch TrafficCom AG
  • Patent number: RE44549
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and system for displaying a driving location of a moving object which controls a Red, Green, Blue (RGB) ratio by corresponding to a property of a road where the moving object travels, differently renders a moving object symbol according to the controlled RGB ratio, and thereby may identify a driving status of the moving object more accurately.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Thinkware Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Deuk Yeong Seong