Abstract: The present invention relates to parking meters, and in particular, to an automated parking meter that recognizes a parker by reading an identification card, such as a car registration, insurance card, license, etc., and is configured to visually display the current status of the vehicle and is configured so that in the event that the meter expires or payment is not made, a ticket can be generated and delivered to the parker.

Abstract: A method for dynamically changing information conveyed by a street sign to alert drivers that parking is permitted as a result of an official vehicle approaching and/or passing the sign and transmitting a control signal to cause updating of the sign.

Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment, a system and method for monitoring and communicating the actions of riders of a group transportation vehicle includes an identifying device that is uniquely associated with and uniquely identifies one rider and a device, such as a reader, that is part of the vehicle and reads information stored on the identifying device. The vehicle includes a controller/wireless communication module that communicates wirelessly with remote devices, such as hand-held units, like cell phone and PDAs and personal computers, etc. The controller communicates with a GPS module and therefore the system keeps track of passengers as they enter and exit the vehicle as a means to ensure that all passengers have exited the vehicle at the end of the route before the vehicle is stored for the night, etc.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a system for monitoring the usage of utilities along with other parameters, such as whether a tenant is current with rental payments, to determine whether a tenant is actively occupying a rental property, such as an apartment.

Abstract: In accordance with one embodiment, a security system is provided on the vehicle that captures and stores the image (face) of the customer but also documents, using a GPS system, the entry (start) point and the exit (end) point of the ride. All this information can be stored locally and transmitted wirelessly to a remote central database where it is stored and can later be accessed.