Abstract: A central control system operates in conjunction with multiple mobile traffic probes to analyze and characterize traffic in a particular region or area. The traffic probes operate autonomously to collect traffic related data and report the collected data to the central control system. The traffic probes can analyze the collected data to identify traffic anomalies, and in response, change the amount and type of data collected, as well as the frequency of reporting the data to the central control system. In addition, the central control system can analyze the received data to identify traffic anomalies or points of interest and force one or more deployed traffic probes to change the amount and type of data collected, as well as the frequency of reporting.

Abstract: A system for controlling the operation of an in-vehicle multi-media system based on identifying operating conditions for the vehicle. Various operational rules can be applied to the multi-media system based on an identified operating condition. Operating conditions can include a variety of criteria including traffic, weather, vehicle operating parameters, or the like. Once a condition is identified, an operating rule corresponding to that condition can be imposed on the operation of the multi-media system.

Abstract: An automated map generator that can be used for creating new maps for uncharted areas, augmenting uncompleted maps, or creating maps for areas that are changing dynamically. One or more mobile devices include location based technology that operates to identify a current location for the mobile device and report that location to the map creation application. If the location of the mobile device is within an active mapping region, the map creation device can instruct the mobile device to report its location on a more frequent basis and then commence to map out the route to the mobile device. As the route is mapped out, a new map of the territory is created. As subsequent devices enter into that area (including navigational systems), the updated mapping information is provided to the device and can then be augmented by future location readings or can simply be used by the device.

Abstract: An automated map generator that can be used for creating new maps for uncharted areas, augmenting uncompleted maps, or creating maps for areas that are changing dynamically. One or more mobile devices include location based technology that operates to identify a current location for the mobile device and report that location to the map creation application. If the location of the mobile device is within an active mapping region, the map creation device can instruct the mobile device to report its location on a more frequent basis and then commence to map out the route to the mobile device. As the route is mapped out, a new map of the territory is created. As subsequent devices enter into that area (including navigational systems), the updated mapping information is provided to the device and can then be augmented by future location readings or can simply be used by the device.

Abstract: A dispatcher free control system that combines location and tracking technology with wireless communication technology to enable deployed workers to be tracked and assisted while on the job. More particularly, mobile units are deployed with the work force. The mobile units include location tracking technology such as GPS, and wireless communication technology such as digital cellular. The mobile devices communicate via the wireless communication technology to a control system. The control system maintains a database of information about various jobs, work orders, status, or the like. In response to status based events, the mobile devices communication with the control system to obtain and update information regarding the work orders and status.