Abstract: The anti-theft device contains a control circuit housed in a casing. The control circuit contains a microprocessor, a memory, a detection unit, a radio unit, and a GPS unit, and is connected to a supersonic sensor, a microwave sensor, an air-pressure sensor, and one ore more image capturing elements. When the motor vehicle is broken in, the control circuit detects such an event by evaluating the multiple signals collected by the sensors, and by processing the images captured by the image capturing elements. The control circuit then dials a preset numbers and plays a pre-recorded voice message asking for help. In the mean time, the continuous images captured by the image capturing elements are delivered a predetermined mobile phone or a computer so that the owner of the motor vehicle or some other people could monitor what is happening at the scene.

Abstract: A system for matching users of mobile communications devices comprising first and second first mobile communications devices for transmitting information defining a location of the first mobile communications device and a system administrator. The system administrator matching the first and second mobile communication devices based on information defining the respective locations of the first and second mobile communication devices.

Abstract: An accessory-type GPS (Global Positioning System) receiver comprises a mobile terminal side plug connector, and a cradle/hand-free side receptacle connector disposed substantially opposite thereto. The GPS receiver further comprises a power supply that receives power from a mobile terminal power charge line being operatively coupled between the mobile terminal side plug connector and the cradle/hand-free side receptacle connector. The plug connector is used to pass GPS data directly to a mobile terminal. The receptacle connector is used to pass non-GPS data to the mobile terminal via the plug connector.

Abstract: Methods and systems for intelligent vehicle fleets are disclosed. An intelligent vehicle may function as a mobile office reducing the need for users to perform work functions in a brick-and-mortar building. Methods or systems consistent with the invention may manage vehicle fleets, or provide intelligent vehicle subsystems, or acquire address information using an intelligent vehicle. A method to manage vehicle fleets may include receiving at a remote computer communicated maintenance data from information collection devices installed in the intelligent vehicle.

Abstract: A mobile controller unit has a radio positioning system and a two-way communication system and a rover unit also has a radio positioning system and a two-way radio communication system. The controller unit can query the rover unit to send its location data so that the rover unit can be located and if desired, found, such as in the case of a lost child or items. Relative position between the controller and the rover can be displayed on the controller along with an arrow showing where the rover is, as well as how fast it is moving, a track of its movement and other data. The system can also operate in conjunction with a network system that has a PDE and an application server that perform some of the communications and calculation functions.

Abstract: A method and a system for controlling communications between a vehicle telematics device and a call center. The method includes determining an emergency condition. A communications priority is determined. Information is selectively communicated between the vehicle telematics device and the call center based on the emergency condition and the communications priority. The system includes means for determining an emergency condition, and means for determining a communications priority. The system further includes means for selectively communicating information between the vehicle telematics device and the call center based on the emergency condition and the communications priority.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a method and apparatus for allowing for GPS receiver functions and GPS digital processing functions to co-exist and function optionally or nearly optimally while in close proximity on a common die.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for enforcing a vehicle code. The systems and methods employ wireless communication signals transmitted and received by mobile units, including mobile telephones, palm devices and base stations.

Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for tracking vehicle maintenance information. The systems and methods employ wireless communication signals transmitted and received by mboile units, including mobile telephones, palm devices and base stations.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to systems and methods for monitoring whether an item is properly delivered to a designated delivery point. According to one aspect of the invention, location data and timestamp data is generated in association with the transport and delivery of an item to a delivery point. The location and timestamp data can be compared, respectively, to at least one predetermined geographic boundary that defines a geographic area encompassing the designated delivery point, and to a scheduled time window within which delivery of the item is to occur. This information can be used to determine if a problem has arisen with regard to the transport and delivery of the item to the delivery point. The system is generally configured to generate one or more alerts if it is determined that a particular item has been transported or delivered in an unauthorized manner.

Abstract: A remotely monitorable shipping container including a shipping container body having associated therewith at least one door (10) and at least one door latch having a latch locking element arranged for locking engagement (17) with a door mounted locking element, at least one wireless communicator mounted in a secure location within the shipping container and being operative to wirelessly transmit information to a remote monitor regarding the status of an electronic seal mounted onto the locking element for confirming locking of the at least one door, and at least one wireless antenna mounted within a protected enclosure on the outside of the shipping container for transmitting the information from the at least one wireless communicator.

Abstract: When an operational mode of a mobile terminal is set to a memory mode, the location information of an area of a base station as a contacted party is registered. When the operational mode of a mobile terminal is set to a notification mode, a determination is made whether the base station as a contacted party is a base station in an unregistered area which is not registered into the storage means. Then, when the contacted party is the base station in the unregistered area, any deviation from an activity range is sent to a registered contact. This can automatically transmit any deviation from the normal activity range.

Abstract: The present invention is a hand held portable remote such as a key fob that allows a user to interact with the security system using a flat panel touch-pad. The touch-pad input allows a user to rapidly select and control a large number of security functions, such as Arm, Disarm, Panic, garage door open, lamp on/off, and lamp dimming control, etc. The security device comprises a housing, a wireless communication port for interface with the security system, a touch-pad input device, and processing circuitry. In order to operate the security device, the user generates a user input by creating a contact motion on the touch-pad input device with a fingertip. The contact motion may consist of a swiping motion, a tapping, or a circular motion. In order to distinguish the contact motion clearly, when the fingertip contact comprises a wider than normal contact, it causes the processing circuitry to not generate an output signal.

Abstract: A method of tracking a vehicle including receiving vehicle information at a call center from a telematics unit via a wireless network, determining whether the vehicle information is associated with a vehicle station identification for a missing vehicle on a vehicle tracking list and initiating vehicle tracking based on the determination.

Abstract: A system and method of vehicle delay notification. The method includes determining a vehicle delay, determining that the vehicle delay meets or exceeds a delay threshold, determining one or more affected mobile telecommunications subscribers, and sending a message to one or more mobile telecommunications phones notifying the one or more affected mobile telecommunications subscribers that the vehicle is delayed. The system determines the vehicle delay and sends a message to one or more mobile telecommunications phones notifying one or more affected subscribers that the vehicle is delayed.

Abstract: A combination vehicle alarm and locator device. The device includes a housing, a vehicle alarm activator positioned within the housing including a transmitter for activating an alarm system on a vehicle and an infrared transmitting device located in the housing for communicating with a Global Positioning Satellite system for determining a location of the device. A key ring selectively extends from a side of the housing. The vehicle alarm activator includes an alarm activation button extending from the housing for activating the vehicle alarm activator to transmit the infrared signal. The transmitter device includes a processor, a memory device for storing identification information concerning the device and an activation button for activating the processor to retrieve the identification information from the memory for transmission to the Global Positioning Satellite system.

Abstract: When searching of a location of a vehicle is commanded, a vehicle search signal is transmitted from a portable device. The vehicle search signal includes an ID code of the portable device. When a vehicle side communication unit receives the valid ID code, the vehicle side communication unit transmits a vehicle side response signal to the portable device. The portable device computes a distance from the portable device to the vehicle based on a signal level of the received vehicle side response signal. A notifying device notifies the computed distance.

Abstract: The JayVigator Car Locator is a small light weight pocket sized remote control device that will locate your vehicle when parked. The remote control is made of plastic. Powered by batteries. Have rubber push buttons and a LCD screen. The remote can also be carried on a key ring. The remote control (front view) has a key ring. A LCD screen—For Visual reference. 10 Digit Access Code buttons—to activate the remote to your specific vehicle. 3 Atmosphere buttons—To specify the area in which the vehicle is parked. A Locate button—for the remote to locate the vehicle and a speaker to hear voice directions or the beeping sounds when in close proximity of the vehicle. The (side view) has a Headphone Jack—for headphone access for privacy to hear voice directions or beep tones discretely. The (back view) has a Partially Covered Panic button. A Beep/Vibrate switch—To indicate vibration or beep sounds to be heard or felt when in close proximity of the vehicle.

Abstract: A mobile controller unit has a radio positioning system and a two-way communication system and a rover unit also has a radio positioning system and a two-way radio communication system. The controller unit can query the rover unit to send its location data so that the rover unit can be located and if desired, found, such as in the case of a lost child or items. Relative spatial position can be displayed along with an arrow showing where the rover is, also how fast it is moving and other data.

Abstract: A method of communicating information associated with provisioning of a service in a communication system and arrangement for the same is disclosed. In the method information about possible associations between an identifier of a mobile user equipment (10) and user plane addresses is stored in storage means (34). A service provisioning entity may receive a request for the service from a client (24) connected to the communication system. Said request includes an identifier of the mobile user equipment. It is verified if a user plane address can be found from the storage means based on the identifier. If such a user plane address is found from the storage means, data associated with provisioning of the requested service is communicated to the mobile user equipment over a user plane connection associated with said address found from the storage means.

Abstract: A method and portable device is provided to assist a person to relocate their parked car and track the time the car should be attended to. A device embodiment includes a car location recording module and a car location playback module. The car location recording module is operable to record a car location in response to the engagement of a (possibly automatically generated) car related signal, which car related signal is engaged proximal to when the car is vacated. The car location playback module plays back the car location recorded by the recording module. Some embodiments further include means for keeping time, such that the location recording module is configured to also record the date and time of when the car location was recorded. Means for managing parking time are also provided for alerting the person that a certain time is eminent or has past, and/or alerting the person that a certain elapsed time is eminent or has past.

Abstract: A method for identifying a vehicle includes receiving a stolen vehicle input at a call center and receiving a confirmation input at a call center. A vehicle code display command is sent from the call center to a telematics unit of the stolen vehicle and a vehicle code of the stolen vehicle is displayed in the stolen vehicle.

Abstract: A monitoring system which can monitor a plurality of vehicles (1) includes vibration sensing units (15) each sensing a vibration of the associated vehicle (1), a sensed time specifying unit (20b) which specifies an instant at which the vibration of the vehicle (1) is sensed by the vibration sensing unit, and an abnormality determining unit (20a) which determines, when a vibration of one of the vehicles (1) is sensed by the associated vibration sensing unit (15), whether the vibration is caused by preparations for theft with respect to the vehicle (1) or the vibration is caused by environmental influences on the vehicle (1). The abnormality determining unit (20a) carries out the determination on ground of sensing results obtained by the vibration sensing units (15) of the respective vehicles (1) and a result of specification carried out by the sensed time specifying unit (20b).

Abstract: A telecommunications device includes a positioning controller (504) adapted to determine positioning information for said telecommunications device; and a wireless communications controller (502) adapted to receive said positioning information from said positioning controller and cause said positioning information to be transmitted to an associated administration device (104/152; 2-122) when said telecommunications device is determined to be out of a predetermined range.

Abstract: A method and apparatus that automatically tracks, monitors and schedules the shipping of objects through carriers such as delivery trucks, ships, or planes is disclosed. A tracking tag is attached to each shipped object. The tracking tag and transportation system uses such techniques as GPS, cellular technology, and bar coding, and sensors such as those that make temperature, pressure, and noise measurements as sources of tracking information. Logic rules and hierarchical weights are given to each source, for any given condition so that the most accurate tracking is made. Tracking is continuous throughout the object's trip. Another set of logic rules is applied to take actions to intervene in the shipping process. For example if it seems the object is off schedule, upgrades or downgrades to the shipping are made. The transportation system can be integrated within a customer's company to facilitate easy scheduling, and production management.

Abstract: A monitoring system for cargo containers coming into the United States from foreign countries, to detect any harmful contents, within the close container, which would prove dangerous to the American people. The system includes a unique flexible plastic strip in which are embedded, 1) a global positioning computer chip, 2) a power source, 3) an encrypted strip serial number computer chip, and thousands of nano detection devices.

Abstract: A vehicle theft prevention system and a method thereof. The system includes an Electronic Control Unit and a vehicle information terminal. The ECU is mounted with a controller that generates a vehicle motion detection message by receiving abnormal detection signals from various sensors detecting the orientation and location of the vehicle and outputs the message through a Control Area Network communication interface. A vehicle information terminal includes a Central Processing Unit, constant voltage circuit part, and CAN communication interface. The CPU is equipped with a Global Positioning System module and mobile communication module. The system thus constructed executes a vehicle motion informing function to prevent vehicle theft even when the vehicle ignition key is turned off.

Abstract: A device tracking location adherence and route adherence technology, is disclosed that at least provides a tracked device receiving, a set of coordinates associated with a boundary area, and obtaining a position of the tracked device. Based upon the received coordinates and the detected position of the tracked device, a determination is made as to whether the tracked device is located inside the boundary area or outside the boundary area. An alert signal is then generated and transmitted if the result of the determining is different from an immediately previous obtained result. The system allows, for example, drastic reduction in the amount of data traffic required within a system since the tracked device performs much of the necessary processing. This is especially advantageous where a fleet of tracked devices are employed within a network.

Abstract: A method and apparatus is provided for electronically providing vehicle identification and registration information to a vehicle. The system includes a remote control unit, which receives and stores vehicle identification and registration information. At least one computer on the vehicle is configured to receive the vehicle identification and registration information and to store such information. An electric license plate coupled to this computer for electronically displaying at least a portion of the identification and registration information stored in the computer.

Abstract: A vehicle burglar alarm system includes a global position system installed in a vehicle for receiving a satellite signal, and an on-vehicle main unit installed in the vehicle and electrically connected with the global position system, the on-vehicle main unit having a first flag, the first flag having a first status without satellite signal and a second status with satellite signal for indicating satellite receiving status of the global position system, the on-vehicle main unit being to output a relocation signal immediately after changing of the first flag from the first status without satellite signal to the second status with satellite signal during burglar alarming mode.

Abstract: A method for establishing an association in a remote computer database between an asset and an electronic device monitoring the asset, while minimizing the chances of an error in the association. The method is capable of being implemented by one user largely automatically. Establishing the association enables reliable remote monitoring of the asset.

Abstract: An automobile anti-theft device disrupting normal operation of an automobile. To attain this, incorporated into an automobile is a module configured to disrupt the normal firing of the automobile's spark plugs upon actuation of a user-controlled controller. In an embodiment, the module electrically couples the automobile's coil to the automobile's distributor cap through a controller-controlled switch. In an embodiment, the module relays instruction sets to an engine control unit, upon execution of the instruction set the engine control unit disrupts spark plug firing. A method for preventing automobile theft, which incorporates into an ignition system a user-controlled module.

Abstract: A combination vehicle alarm and locator device. The device includes a housing, a vehicle alarm activator positioned within the housing including a transmitter for activating an alarm system on a vehicle and an infrared transmitting device located in the housing for communicating with a Global Positioning Satellite system for determining a location of the device. A key ring selectively extends from a side of the housing. The vehicle alarm activator includes an alarm activation button extending from the housing for activating the vehicle alarm activator to transmit the infrared signal. The transmitter device includes a processor, a memory device for storing identification information concerning the device and an activation button for activating the processor to retrieve the identification information from the memory for transmission to the Global Positioning Satellite system.

Abstract: In GPS based and other types of asset tracking system, event masking rules may be applied at asset tracking units and/or at a central station to determine whether to report events detected by the asset tracking units. The events may pertain to transportation vehicles such as truck trailers or cargo containers to which the asset tracking units are attached. The event masking rules may be defined at the central station and downloaded by satellite communication to the asset tracking units and/or the rules may be defined locally, at the asset tracking units.

Abstract: The computerized system provides a method to inventory articles, to locate lost or stolen articles and to recover a lost or stolen article. The system applies an electronic tag to each article of a multiplicity of articles or only to a valuable article and employs a computer to maintain an inventory of all articles. Use is made of a global positioning sysytem to locate a lost or stolen article as wel as to track movements of the article. A history of the movement of the article may also be plotted on a map. An electronic geographic boundary area may also be placed around an article that can be used to emit a signal indicative of the article leaving the area.

Abstract: An on-vehicle information provision apparatus is provided that visually provides a vehicle occupant with an advertisement. The apparatus includes display condition setting device that sets predetermined display conditions for displaying the advertisement, condition determination device that determines whether or not the display condition applies, and advertisement display device that, when said display condition does apply, visually provides the occupant with the advertisement shown superimposed on an actual landscape being viewed by the occupant.

Abstract: A security arrangement has an intrusion detection information input unit for receiving intrusion detection information from an intrusion detection device for detecting an intruding entity entering a predetermined area; and a network communication unit for communicating with an in-vehicle terminal device which is mounted in a vehicle through a communication network. When the intrusion detection information input unit receives the intrusion detection information from the intrusion detection device, the network communication unit transmits information related to the detected intruding entity to the in-vehicle terminal device.

Abstract: A technique for adding to the security of vehicle inspection and the facility for radio-tracking of a vehicle attempting escape from the inspector, embodying the use of a miniaturized specifically coded self-powered radio-transponder or transmitter temporarily attachable by the inspector externally to a stopped vehicle and trackable in the event of vehicle escape.

Abstract: The invention relates to a security-protected system for positioning by satellites, comprising a constellation of satellites (11) sending out positioning signals under the control of a set of ground stations (14). A user receiver of the said positioning signals comprises means for sending, to a ground station, a request calling for a key which is necessary for interpreting them, advantageously accompanied by a recopy of the positioning signals received. User servicing ground stations comprise means for receiving this request, calculating the position of the user and verifying whether the user possesses a privileged status, and means for addressing the said key to the user receiver, in the event that the verification is positive, this key further comprising means for interpreting the positioning signals with the aid of the key so as to deduce his own position therefrom.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for monitoring and reporting the status of a mobile asset are described, where the mobile asset may be moved by a transport vehicle from a starting location to a destination location. The method includes providing destination information to a tracking device on the mobile asset, and setting a boundary about the destination location which is also referred to herein as a geoboundary. As the mobile asset moves from the starting location to the destination location, the current location of the mobile asset is determined, and a determination is made whether the current location is within the geoboundary. If the current location of the mobile asset is within the geoboundary, an arrival message is transmitted from the tracking device. Preferred embodiments of the invention include the step of transmitting a departure message from the tracking device if the current location of the mobile asset moves from within the geoboundary to outside the geoboundary.

Abstract: An emergency vehicle alert system for providing information as to a location of an emergency vehicle to a motor vehicle, includes a first GPS receiving unit that is provided on the emergency vehicle and that receives GPS signals from GPS satellites and that determines emergency vehicle location information of the emergency vehicle. The system also includes a radio-wave transmitter unit that is provided on the emergency vehicle and that transmits the emergency vehicle location information by way of an emergency vehicle location signal. The system further includes a second GPS receiving unit that is provided on the motor vehicle and that receives GPS signals from GPS satellites and that determines vehicle location information of the motor vehicle. The system also includes a radio-wave receiver unit that is provided on the motor vehicle and that receives the emergency location signal output by the radio-wave transmitter unit of the emergency vehicle.

Abstract: An on-board unit for a vehicle is disclosed. The unit includes a primary communication system, the primary communication system being adapted to communicate with a remote location, and being further adapted to detect a stolen condition or receive an indication of a stolen condition. The unit also includes a process for determining whether communication with a central location can be effected. A secondary communication system is provided, the secondary communication system transmitting a signal including an identification of the on-board unit when communication with the central location cannot be effected. This signal is received by a receiver, which is in direct or indirect communication with the central location, so that the central location can take the appropriate steps to recover the vehicle which includes the on-board unit that is emitting the signal.

Abstract: A vehicle and system for providing a communication link among a plurality of mobile vehicles comprises a broadband RF transceiver with antenna, a GPS receiver, an audio-visual interface, and a microprocessor with associated memory, whereby said microprocessor generates a communication by constructing data packets from a plurality of data fields, including sender information and receiver information.

Abstract: A vehicle navigation system includes a vehicle displacement sensor comprising a wireless transmitter generating a signal indicating rotational displacement of a vehicle component. A complementary wireless transmitter receives the signal from the transmitter. A computer calculates vehicle speed or displacement based upon the rotational speed or displacement of the vehicle component. In a preferred embodiment, the transmitter is secured to a wheel of the vehicle and generates an RF signal upon each revolution of the wheel.

Abstract: There is described a system for preventing vehicle theft, the system comprising: a plurality of signal emitting devices placed and camouflaged among various parts of a vehicle, each of the plurality of signal emitting devices being independent of the vehicle's power source; readers placed at a plurality of locations in a geographical area and connected to a network having a central location, the readers receiving signals from the plurality of signal emitting devices and transferring reader data to the central location; and a central database at the central location comprising registration data for each vehicle equipped with the signal emitting devices, and whereby the central database is correlated with the reader data to identify vehicles that have been stolen.

Abstract: A vehicle tracking unit is preferably for a vehicle of a type including an engine starter interrupt device. The vehicle tracking unit preferably includes a vehicle position determining device, a wireless communications device, and a controller. The controller may switch between an armed mode and a disarmed mode based upon operation of the engine starter interrupt device. The controller when in the armed mode may cooperate with the wireless communications device to send an alert message to the monitoring station and including vehicle position information, for example. The controller is also for selectively operating the engine starter interrupt device. The controller may include a combination input and output terminal for connection to the engine starter interrupt device.

Abstract: A security system of a construction machine of the present invention has a construction machine, a base station and a communication device. The construction machine comprises a data sending and receiving portion for sending first information, a storage portion for storing received information, and a control portion for controlling an operation of the construction machine. The base station receives the first information from the data sending and receiving portion of the construction machine and sends second information to the construction machine and manages the construction machine. It is configured so that the communication device is connected to the base station through a communication network and can send third information to the construction machine through the base station.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for monitoring and reporting the status of a mobile asset are described, where the mobile asset may be moved by a transport vehicle from a starting location to a destination location. The method includes providing destination information to a tracking device on the mobile asset, and setting a boundary about the destination location which is also referred to herein as a geoboundary. As the mobile asset moves from the starting location to the destination location, the current location of the mobile asset is determined, and a determination is made whether the current location is within the geoboundary. If the current location of the mobile asset is within the geoboundary, an arrival message is transmitted from the tracking device. Preferred embodiments of the invention include the step of transmitting a departure message from the tracking device if the current location of the mobile asset moves from within the geoboundary to outside the geoboundary.

Abstract: A mobile controller unit has a radio positioning system and a two-way communication system and a rover unit also has a radio positioning system and a two-way radio communication system. The controller unit can query the rover unit to send its location data so that the rover unit can be located and if desired, found, such as in the case of a lost child or items. Relative spatial position can be displayed along with an arrow showing where the rover is, also how fast it is moving and other data.

Abstract: Arrangement for monitoring an asset including an interior sensor system arranged on the asset to obtain information about contents in the interior of the asset, a location determining system arranged on the asset to monitor the location of the asset and a communication system arranged on the asset and coupled to the interior sensor system and the location determining system. The communication system operatively transmits the information about the contents in the interior of the asset and the location of the asset to a remote facility. The interior sensor system may include at least one wave transmitter arranged to transmit waves into the interior of the asset and at least one wave receiver arranged to receive waves from the interior of the asset. A processor may be provided to compare waves received by the wave receiver(s) at different times or analyze the waves received by the wave receiver(s).