Vehicle Detectors Patents (Class 340/933)
  • Patent number: 7999682
    Abstract: Systems and methods for disabling transponders used in electronic toll collection or other RFID systems, wherein the transponders include an antenna and RFID circuitry. The transponders can be selectively disabled by releasably securing a disabling device having a metallic portion at an operative position over the antenna of the RFID system, whereupon the metallic portion is coupled to the antenna in such a manner as to disable the RFID circuitry so long as the disabling device is at the operative position. The RFID circuitry is arranged to be automatically enabled upon removal of the disabling device from the operative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2011
    Assignee: TC License Ltd.
    Inventors: Matthew K. Burnett, Scott Noakes, Frank Mestas
  • Patent number: 7994938
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus for deciding a traveling direction in a space are provided. After receiving a starting signal from a mobile apparatus, a network node of a network apparatus generates a request signal and sends it to a processing apparatus. Then the processing apparatus decides the traveling direction and sends a direction signal comprising the traveling direction to the nearest network node to instruct a moving apparatus to move. The method, and apparatus are more convenient and more cost-effective system than those in the prior art.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2011
    Assignee: Institute for Information Industry
    Inventor: Hung-Ren Lai
  • Patent number: 7988046
    Abstract: A PDA device is used to record the ID of a vehicle boot RFID tag and to transmit to the tag and to a host entity violation data such as summons number, license number, time and date stamp, issuing person ID, location of the vehicle, scofflaw data and so on. This data may be entered into the PDA electronically via a communication network such as the internet or LAN system or manually via a keyboard. The host entity has a data base which is uploaded with this information and has correlation of RFID tag numbers to an unlock combination number for each boot. When the boot is attached to a vehicle this PDA data is transmitted to the host entity whose contact telephone number is attached to the vehicle being booted. The driver contacts the entity to pay the fine and receive in return the unlock combination. The driver thus can release and remove the boot within minutes of returning to the vehicle and can return the boot at his leisure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: IPT, LLC
    Inventors: Patrick Moynihan, Larry Berman, Cory Marchasin, Josiah Johnson
  • Patent number: 7990325
    Abstract: The present invention provides a remote antenna system employing digital imaging means by which the operator can view both the antenna pointing data and the coverage landscape from the antenna radome perspective. The present invention also provides a method for antenna positioning data acquisition and positioning control employing remotely acquired image data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Powerwave Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew Hunton, Nikolai Maslennikov, Alexander Rabinovich
  • Patent number: 7991551
    Abstract: A system and method are provided to determine the collision status of a nearby vehicle or vehicles. If a nearby vehicle has been in a collision, responsive systems may be triggered automatically. Responses may include warning the driver of the host vehicle and/or warning drivers of other vehicles or centralized networks by, among other methods, V2V or V2I communications. Responses may also include automatically triggering countermeasures in the host vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen Samuel, Christopher Nave, W. Trent Yopp, Roger Trombley
  • Patent number: 7991542
    Abstract: The present invention extends to methods, systems, and computer program products for monitoring signalized traffic flow. A processor in a sensor system or traffic controller interface estimates the time-of-arrival and other traffic flow estimates of one or more vehicles to an intersection stop bar, while the vehicles are within a continuous range of one or more transducers view of the sensor system. A level of efficiency and safety within the signalized traffic flow is estimated by the sensor system based upon one or more of the estimated time-of-arrival and other flow variables estimates and then communicated to the control unit of the traffic signal system. Other flow estimates for each vehicle include but are not limited to: position relative to the stop bar, lane position, velocity, acceleration, time headway and classification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Wavetronix LLC
    Inventors: Bradley C. Giles, Michael J. Miller
  • Patent number: 7991552
    Abstract: A system and method are provided to determine the side-impact collision status of a nearby vehicle or vehicles. If a nearby vehicle has been in a collision, responsive systems may be triggered automatically. Responses may include warning the driver of the host vehicle and/or warning drivers of other vehicles or centralized networks by, among other methods, V2V or V2I communications. Responses may also include automatically triggering countermeasures in the host vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2011
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen Samuel, Christopher Nave, W. Trent Yopp, Roger Arnold Trombley
  • Publication number: 20110181442
    Abstract: A vehicle presence notification apparatus is disclosed to notify a presence of a vehicle by providing easily-perceivable and less uncomfortable notification sound to an outside of the vehicle. The vehicle presence notification apparatus includes: a speaker and a controller. The controller is configured to cause the speaker to generate the notification sound that simultaneously has (i) at least one fundamental high frequency, which is easily sticking to human ears; and (ii) at least one auxiliary low frequency, which is smaller than the at least one fundamental high frequency and has a harmonic relation with the at least one fundamental high frequency.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 21, 2011
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Toshiaki NAKAYAMA
  • Patent number: 7986248
    Abstract: An image recording apparatus suitable for recording a traffic signal violation at an intersection controlled by a traffic light is described. The image recording apparatus includes a first camera focused on the intersection, and a second camera focused on a first lane of a street leading to the intersection. A first control circuit is coupled to the first camera causes the first camera to capture a first image at substantially an instant of time that the traffic light indicates a change of traffic control status. The apparatus also includes a detection circuit to detect when a portion of a vehicle crosses a trigger location in the first lane after the change in traffic control status. A second control circuit coupled to the second camera causes the second camera to capture a close-up image of the vehicle in the event that the detection circuit detects the portion of the vehicle at the trigger location after a change in traffic control status.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 26, 2011
    Assignee: Redflex Traffic Systems Pty Ltd
    Inventor: Roy William Lock
  • Patent number: 7982634
    Abstract: A system to detect the transit of vehicles having license plates includes at least one video camera to detect license plates capable of framing the plates of said vehicles and, preferably, at least one video camera to detect vehicles capable of framing a zone of transit of said vehicles having license plates. A series of processing operations is capable, starting from the video signals generated by the video camera to detect license plates, of detecting the presence of a vehicle in transit and, starting from the video signals generated by the video camera to detect vehicles, of detecting the position and three-dimensional shape of vehicles in transit in said zone. A supervisor module aggregates the results of these processing operations to generate records of information each identifying the modality of transit in said zone of a vehicle identified by a given license plate that has been recognized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: KRIA S.r.l.
    Inventor: Stefano Arrighetti
  • Patent number: 7983835
    Abstract: A modular intelligent transportation system, comprising an environmentally protected enclosure, a system communications bus, a processor module, communicating with said bus, having a image data input and an audio input, the processor module analyzing the image data and/or audio input for data patterns represented therein, having at least one available option slot, a power supply, and a communication link for external communications, in which at least one available option slot can be occupied by a wireless local area network access point, having a communications path between said communications link and said wireless access point, or other modular components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Inventor: Paul J. Lagassey
  • Publication number: 20110169663
    Abstract: A device and a method for detecting motor vehicles and their approach angles by passive or active transponders which are provided on the motor vehicles is described, which can be triggered by a transceiver device to transfer information stored in the transponders. It is recommended that on a motor vehicle at least two transponders are arranged with a restricted emission angle range and a different emission direction, and that information suitable for identifying the motor vehicle is stored in the transponders.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2008
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicants: CONTINENTAL TEVES AG & CO. OHG, ADC AUTOMOTIVE DISTANCE CONTROL SYSTEMS
    Inventors: Ulrich Stählin, Jürgen Diebold, Wilfried Mehr
  • Patent number: 7978097
    Abstract: A method, medium and implementing processing system are provided in which the presence of workers in a long highway construction zone is monitored and the electronically-controlled posted speed limit is adjusted in accordance with the detected presence of workers in the immediate area. In an example, Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) scanners or readers are strategically placed in a construction or working area. Such RFID reading devices may be embedded, for example, in construction speed limit signs. The displayed speed limit is controlled by the detected proximity of construction workers wearing RFID-embedded clothing, for example, such as safety vests or helmets. The speed limit sign includes logic to display one of many possible speed limit displays based on the nearest, and/or the number of RFID signals detected in a given area.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Robert Thomas Arenburg, Franck Barillaud, Bradford Lee Cobb, Shivnath Dutta
  • Publication number: 20110163895
    Abstract: A system associates change in the state of an asset to an event trigger within a monitored environment. This environment includes a plurality of assets and a tag transmitter positioned on each asset and operative for transmitting a wireless RF signal based on an event trigger based on one of at least the change in state of an asset and change in location of the asset. A plurality of spaced apart access points receive an RF signal transmitted from a tag transmitter. A processor is operatively connected to the access points and collect possible candidates as assets associated with the event trigger and assigning a numerical score to each candidate to determine which asset is best associated with the event trigger.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 10, 2011
    Publication date: July 7, 2011
    Inventor: RODRIGO RADO
  • Patent number: 7974780
    Abstract: Navigation systems, methods and programs detect the current location of a vehicle and search a route to a destination based on the current location. The systems, methods, and programs set a guidance intersection based on the searched route, set a route guidance point at a predetermined point before the guidance intersection, and provide route guidance through the guidance intersection when the vehicle reaches the route guidance point. The systems, methods, and programs determine whether the guidance intersection is a guidance intersection where lane planning can be readily performed by a user, even if lane guidance is not performed by the controller. The systems, methods, and programs prevent lane guidance at the predetermined route guidance point from being performed if it is determined that lane planning can be readily performed by the user at the guidance intersection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Aisin AW Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takaaki Nakayama, Shino Oonishi, Kensuke Takeuchi
  • Patent number: 7965199
    Abstract: A vehicular signaturing device and associated methodology by which to identify a vehicle. A sensor senses light energy emitted by the vehicle, such as light energy generated by a headlight assembly of the vehicle. The sensed energy is compared with database-stored information that is indexed together with standard vehicular types, models, and manufacture-year to identify the vehicular type. Once identified, the information related to identification is used pursuant to further vehicular-signaling functionality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2011
    Assignee: Hewlett-Packard Development Company, L.P.
    Inventor: James Neil Moon
  • Patent number: 7956769
    Abstract: Some embodiments of the present invention provide a system that facilitates parking usage. During operation, the system receives a parking reservation request from a user and obtains a set of available parking spaces based on the parking reservation request. Next, the system provides the available parking spaces to the user and obtains, from the user, a selection of a parking space from the available parking spaces. Finally, the system reserves the parking space for the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 7, 2011
    Assignee: Intuit Inc.
    Inventor: Michael L. Pearl
  • Patent number: 7950570
    Abstract: A system and method for managing a permit-based parking environment governed by a parking program. The permit-based parking environment includes a number of parking permits each including a unique RFID tag and tag number. One or more RFID readers are used to scan the vehicles parked in the parking environment to determine if a RFID tag is associated with the parked vehicle. The results of the scan along with information related to the parked vehicle are provided to a permit management system to determine if the vehicle is parked within the scope of privileges pre-defined for that vehicle, pursuant to the parking program governing the parking environment. The permit management system stores, manages, and monitors data related to the permits controlled under the parking program.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: IPT, LLC
    Inventors: Cory D. Marchasin, Patrick J. Moynihan, Josiah D. Johnson, Lawrence Berman
  • Publication number: 20110121995
    Abstract: A vehicle detector (10) comprises a vehicle sensor (14) arranged for sensing disturbances caused by a vehicle, a digitizer of a microprocessor (20) connected to the vehicle sensor (14). The vehicle detector (10) further comprises a memory (18) connected to the digitizer and arranged for storing the digital representation, an antenna (12) and a transmitter of a radio unit (40). The microprocessor (20) also comprises a controller arranged for controlling operation of the vehicle sensor (14), and the transmitter. The vehicle detector has a housing (49) enclosing the vehicle sensor (14), the digitizer, the memory, the transmitter and the controller. The housing (49) provides protection against mechanical damage and moisture, thereby enabling the housing to be placed under ground. The antenna (12) is provided outside the housing (49) and at a distance from the housing (49) for enabling placement of the antenna (12) within a roadway surface coating.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2010
    Publication date: May 26, 2011
    Inventors: Fredrik Zettergren, Patrik Söderberg, Karl Nilvér, David Kulander
  • Patent number: 7948400
    Abstract: Methods for decision making about sensor location/configuration for traffic sensing and routing are described. Construction of predictive models via machine learning that infer variance of road speeds, in general or for specific contexts (e.g., rush hours for a traffic system) occurs. The predictive models for road reliability are built from libraries of data about sensed variances and road segments. The datasets include information for road segments monitored by fixed sensors/moving probes, road segment properties, geometric relationships among road segments, and proximal resources. Road segments are labeled by the sensed variance seen in traffic speeds over similar contexts. A model is created that can apply estimates of the variance of the traffic speed for a segment, including non-sensed segments via generalization to non-sensed road segments. Methods are described for employing the predictive models of variance, along with demand and propagation models, to make decisions about configuration of sensors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignee: Microsoft Corporation
    Inventors: Eric J. Horvitz, Sridhar Srinivasan
  • Patent number: 7948397
    Abstract: Image information apparatuses, methods, and programs acquire image information of a plurality of frames of images sensed at predetermined regular time intervals. The apparatuses, methods, and programs detect a leading and trailing end of a lane mark included in a detection area defined in each frame of the image information. The apparatuses, methods, and programs detect a detected distance from one of the leading and trailing end of the lane mark to the other one as a detected distance based on the speed of the vehicle and the number of frames between a frame in which one of the leading end and the trailing end of the lane mark is detected and a frame in which the other one of the leading end and the trailing end of the lane mark is detected and determine a lane mark type of the lane mark on the basis of the detected distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Assignees: Aisin AW Co., Ltd., Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Masaki Nakamura, Tomoaki Ishikawa, Osamu Aisaka, Kota Irie, Naoki Kourogi, Takeshi Shima, Masahiro Kiyohara
  • Publication number: 20110113996
    Abstract: A row unit of a planter or other agricultural machine having ground engaging wheels is equipped with a rotation sensor to determine if and when a wheel stops rotating. An alert is issued by a monitor to the operator so that corrective action can be taken. Further, means are provided to determine when the machine is in used depositing an input versus turning at the end of the rows so that the rotation sensors to not generate an alert when the machine is not in use delivering an input to the field.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 17, 2009
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventors: Nathan A. Mariman, Paul R. Riewerts
  • Patent number: 7944345
    Abstract: A handheld, portable device is used to store data that indicates an operator was sufficiently close to each of a plurality of components during a safety inspection to actually inspect the components. The portable device includes a sensor that detects tokens, such as radio frequency identification tags, which are affixed adjacent to the components. Messages appearing on a display of the portable device prompt the operator to proceed to each checkpoint, determine a state of the component disposed there, and if the component is not operating properly, indicate a plurality of predefined conditions from which the operator can choose to identify the observed condition of the component. The state and condition of each component entered during the safety inspection are stored as data that are subsequently transferred to a remote data storage site over a wire or wireless link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Zonar Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Brett Brinton, Charles Michael McQuade, William Brinton, Jr., Daniel Mayer, Eric Manegold, Richard Lugash, Robie G. Russell
  • Patent number: 7936269
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a registration sign for vehicles, where the registration sign (2) comprises a sign package (38) consisting of individual plastic film sections (6a, 9a), a bottom sheet (18) and a front panel (12), and also comprises a frame (21) which surrounds the sign package. According to the invention, the registration sign (2) comprises in addition at least one transponder (50) for receiving and/or transmitting radio signals and the transponder (50) is embedded in the frame (21). The present invention also relates to a method for the manufacture of a registration sign whereby at least one transponder (50) is fastened on and/or in the sign package (38) for the registration sign (2) and the transponder 50 is embedded in the frame (21) when the latter is injection-molded round the edges of the sign package (38).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: AB Scandinavian Motorcenter
    Inventors: Jan Persson, Kent Fält
  • Patent number: 7932815
    Abstract: Computer-readable media, systems, and methods for wirelessly communicating between a tractor and a set of trailers in a tractor-trailer environment are described. In embodiments, a tractor wireless communication device associated with a tractor is initialized and associated with a tractor initialization time. Additionally, a trailer wireless communication device associated with at least one trailer is initialized and associated with a trailer initialization time. In various embodiments, it is determined whether the tractor wireless communication device and the trailer wireless communication device are in physical proximity by comparing initialization times. Further, in various embodiments, tractor-trailer information events are communicated wirelessly between a tractor and a trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: Intermec IP Corp.
    Inventors: Rene Martinez, Arvin Danielson
  • Patent number: 7925440
    Abstract: A system and method for accurate express tolling of highway vehicles. A multilane tolling system comprises a tolling (MVIC) unit that collects information from tolling subsystems arranged to take various vehicle measurements. Preferably, an intelligent vehicle identification subsystem sends vehicle information to the MVIC unit many times per second. Preferably, a vision tracking system (VTS) communicates with the MVIC unit and sends the latter information about the vehicle position using vision tracking sensors. Preferably, an RF subsystem conducts multiple reads of a transponder on a passing vehicle and forwards the read information to the MVIC unit. Preferably, a vehicle image capture unit (VICU) captures images of the passing vehicle when a camera in the VICU receives a trigger from the MVIC unit. Preferably, a driver alert module is used alert a driver passing through a tolling point as to account balance associated with a silent toll tag or pay by plate system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: United Toll Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Jim Allen, Sheng Zhong, Raghavan Venugopal, Tiegang Xie, Fajie Sun, Sangmesh Reddy, Brijesh Rai Chawla, Balaraju Banna, Shyamnath Harinath
  • Patent number: 7923962
    Abstract: The system of wireless electronic registration plates which is comprehended by the existance of the central wireless module placed within the motor vehicle and connected on to an electric energy source, and the wireless electronic registration plates, that are placed at the front and the rear sides of a motor vehicle, containing built-in satellite wireless module is functioning on a principle of wireless micro network where the data transfer from a computer or other mobile device for data input is made through the central wireless module to the satellite wireless modules embedded into the registration plates. The wireless electronic registration plates have its own source of electric energy which are connected to a thin, film battery implanted in to the solar housing of the registration plates. The registration data is displayed through an active display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 26, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Inventor: Vladimir Jovanovich
  • Patent number: 7924170
    Abstract: The present invention extends to detecting targets in roadway intersections. A traffic sensor includes a transducer system and a transceiver system. The transducer system creates a plurality of transducer views for detecting targets located in a portion of the intersection. The transducer system includes a transducer configured to transmit signals towards and to receive signals and signal reflections within a portion of the two or more approaches to the intersection. The transducer is configured such that when necessary the transducer can transmit a signal and receive a signal or signal reflection simultaneously. The transceiver system is configured to generate digital data indicative of the transducer receiving a signal or signal reflection. The transducer system and transceiver system interoperate to generate an aggregate sensor view of the intersection that includes a plurality of transducer views of the two or more approaches to the intersection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2011
    Assignee: Wavetronix LLC
    Inventors: David V. Arnold, Bryan R. Jarrett, Dale M. Jarvis, Thomas W. Karlinsey, Ryan L. Smith, Jonathan L. Waite
  • Publication number: 20110080306
    Abstract: The invention relates to the determination of direction, speed and/or distance of vehicles on a roadway by means of a sensor, which operates according to the light-section procedure and is directed onto the roadway, for recording the surface contour of a vehicle, and an evaluation unit, which is connected to the sensor and determines the direction, speed and/or distance of the vehicles therefrom.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Inventors: Alexander Leopold, Andreas Schechora, Oliver Nagy
  • Publication number: 20110080307
    Abstract: The invention relates to the detection of wheel axles of a vehicle on a roadway by means of a sensor, which operates according to the light-section procedure and emits at least one fan of light from a first location along the roadway to project a line of light onto the roadway and a vehicle possibly located thereon, and records this line of light from a second location along the same side of the roadway and detects a wheel axle as soon as the recorded line of light exhibits, in its course emanating from the said side of the roadway, a shift-free change in direction differing from its course when the roadway is empty.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 1, 2010
    Publication date: April 7, 2011
    Inventor: Oliver Nagy
  • Publication number: 20110074606
    Abstract: A vehicle detection and identification system is disclosed that can promote accident avoidance and the reporting of traffic safety violations to public safety personnel, by providing to users (without limitation, visually handicapped users) indicia of vehicles in proximity to the user location, the relative orientation, motion and proximity of the respective vehicles, and identification information associated with the respective vehicles or their owner/operator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventors: Stuart O. Goldman, Paul Wolfson
  • Patent number: 7917253
    Abstract: A method for obtaining vehicle-related data from a vehicle equipped with a telematics unit and making that data temporarily available to a third party that has been approved by an authorized user, such as the vehicle owner. This enables the authorized user to decide which third parties, if any at all, are to receive vehicle-related data so that they may take advantage of any promotions or other services that are offered by the third parties. The vehicle-related data is preferably maintained on a temporary basis so that after the occurrence of an event, such as the expiration of a predetermined period of time or after the authorized third party has already accessed the vehicle-related data, the data is deleted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2011
    Assignee: General Motors LLC
    Inventors: Krishnaraj Inbarajan, Thomas P. Grau, Luc Feilla, Shawn Drwencke
  • Publication number: 20110063135
    Abstract: A meter-less remote parking monitoring system, incorporating a plurality of vehicle detector and Radio Frequency Identification Reader (RFID) units deployed in individual parking spaces; a plurality of Cellular Gateway Radios, each Cellular Gateway Radio being connected to one of said plurality of vehicle detector and Radio Frequency Identification Units; a Command and Control Server; the plurality of Cellular Gateway Radios being connected to said Command and Control Server via the internet.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2010
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Inventors: Eric Groft, Larry Berman
  • Patent number: 7907065
    Abstract: A system and method for activating vehicle sensors which are based on inductive loops. A transformer is used to couple the vehicle frame to activation circuitry. Within the activation circuitry, a voltage controlled oscillator which drives the transformer is scanned throughout the required frequency range while a balanced mixer, low-pass filter, and detector are arranged to show the presence of a signal from an inductive loop by the amplitude of the resultant signal at a difference frequency. The voltage controlled oscillator is then made to dwell at or near the frequency of the sensor loop by adjusting so as to keep the amplitude of that low-frequency difference as high as possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Inventor: Edward Anthony Richley
  • Patent number: 7907064
    Abstract: An image-taking control section determines, based on information outputted from a location information obtaining section, whether a vehicle has entered a car park. When the vehicle has entered the car park, an image storage section stores, at predetermined time intervals, images of a view in a traveling direction of the vehicle, which images are taken by a vehicle-mounted camera. Image taking is terminated when the vehicle is parked at a parking space and a parking brake is applied. Thereafter, the taken images are transmitted via a transmission section to a mobile terminal held by a user. The user is allowed to easily recognize the parking position of his/her vehicle by viewing the images with the mobile terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2011
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Satoru Itani, Yuji Mizuguchi
  • Publication number: 20110050461
    Abstract: A Network of Traffic Behavior-monitoring Unattended Ground Sensors (NeTBUGS) is configurable to detect the passing of vehicles, determine when and where individual vehicles have stopped for a period of time that raises suspicion of illegal or dangerous activity, track the vehicles after the stop and to generate a location-tagged alert for the timely dispatch of a response asset to investigate the anomalous behavior of the vehicle. NeTBUGS sensors are small, camouflaged, easily concealed, and operate for long durations independent of the electrical grid or large, obvious power generators and thus well suited for operation in a hostile environment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2009
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventors: Michael D. Pixley, Martt Harding
  • Patent number: 7898433
    Abstract: A system and method for moving vehicular traffic in a single lane through a control zone requires creation of a control protocol. The protocol establishes a spacing distance “s” and a speed “v” for each vehicle in the control zone. A computer then controls movement of a visible signal through the control zone in accordance with the established protocol. Electronic regulators monitor the distance “s” between the signal and the vehicle, and the system alarms when “s” becomes greater than a predetermined distance “d”.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2011
    Inventor: Howard H. Roberts
  • Patent number: 7894980
    Abstract: The present invention is a method and an apparatus for estimating real-time travel times or traffic loads (e.g., traffic flows or densities) over a transportation network based on limited real-time data. In one embodiment, a method for estimating a travel time over a transportation network comprising at least a first link and a second link includes receiving a data feed associated with a real-time traffic flow over the first link, estimating a first travel time over the first link based at least in part on the data feed, and estimating a second travel time over the second link, also based at least in part on the data feed. The method assumes that a real-time data feed is not available for the second link, and thus estimates the traffic flow over the second link based on the known traffic flow over the first link and other known data, such as historical traffic patterns and physical parameters of the transportation network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Zhen Liu, Laura Wynter, Li Zhang
  • Patent number: 7893847
    Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatuses for determining parking availability are described. A sensor system is configured to monitor a plurality of parking spaces. The sensor system includes at least one sensor element that generates a sensor data output signal. A parking availability determiner receives the sensor data output signal and generates parking availability information. The parking availability determiner is configured to determine from the received sensor data output signal at least one parking space of the plurality of parking spaces that is occupied, and to include an indication in the parking availability information that the determined at least one parking space is occupied. If one or more further parking space are included in the plurality of parking spaces other than the determined at least one parking space, an indication is included in the parking availability information that the further parking spaces are available for parking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Yahoo! Inc.
    Inventors: Amit Umesh Shanbhag, Glen Ames, Philip Aaronson
  • Patent number: 7889098
    Abstract: The present invention extends to detecting targets in roadway intersections. A traffic sensor includes a transducer system and a transceiver system. The transducer system creates a plurality of transducer views for detecting targets located in a portion of the intersection. The transducer system includes a transducer configured to transmit signals towards and to receive signals and signal reflections within a portion of the two or more approaches to the intersection. The transducer is configured such that when necessary the transducer can transmit a signal and receive a signal or signal reflection simultaneously. The transceiver system is configured to generate digital data indicative of the transducer receiving a signal or signal reflection. The transducer system and transceiver system interoperate to generate an aggregate sensor view of the intersection that includes a plurality of transducer views of the two or more approaches to the intersection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Wavetronix LLC
    Inventors: David V. Arnold, Bryan R. Jarrett, Dale M. Jarvis, Thomas W. Karlinsey, Ryan L. Smith, Jonathan L. Waite
  • Patent number: 7889097
    Abstract: The present invention extends to detecting targets in roadway intersections. A traffic sensor includes a transducer system and a transceiver system. The transducer system creates a plurality of transducer views for detecting targets located in a portion of the intersection. The transducer system includes a transducer configured to transmit signals towards and to receive signals and signal reflections within a portion of the two or more approaches to the intersection. The transducer is configured such that when necessary the transducer can transmit a signal and receive a signal or signal reflection simultaneously. The transceiver system is configured to generate digital data indicative of the transducer receiving a signal or signal reflection. The transducer system and transceiver system interoperate to generate an aggregate sensor view of the intersection that includes a plurality of transducer views of the two or more approaches to the intersection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Assignee: Wavetronix LLC
    Inventors: David V. Arnold, Bryan R. Jarrett, Dale M. Jarvis, Thomas W. Karlinsey, Ryan L. Smith, Jonathan L. Waite
  • Patent number: 7889093
    Abstract: A system for displaying safety information—particularly for pedestrian crosswalks and vehicle brake lights—that permits an operator located at a hub to upload and transmit at least one image to select traffic signals or brake light display screen connected within the network. The at least one image depicts a display of regional, local or even neighborhood significance. The operator, or user, can pinpoint which traffic signals will ultimately display these images. The images are locally significant, informative and whimsical.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Inventor: Carrie P. Thomas
  • Patent number: 7883064
    Abstract: A mounting bracket for a vehicle backup camera, including: a lengthwise portion; and a camera mounting portion connected to the lengthwise portion, the camera mounting portion including a protrusion, the protrusion forming a gap between the camera mounting portion and the lengthwise portion so that the lengthwise portion can be mounted behind a license plate of a vehicle and a camera can be suspended by the camera mounting portion for viewing a rear of the vehicle when the vehicle is in reverse.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Audiovox Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher A. Luft, Nick Soudas, Peter Dodridge
  • Patent number: 7884704
    Abstract: A body structure of a vehicle reliably detects, with a side-collision detection sensor disposed on a pillar, a side-collision of a side door of a vehicle body against a pole and particularly a side-collision against a pole in a diagonal direction. A metal bracket that projects toward a vehicle width direction outer side is disposed on an outer side surface in a predetermined position (substantially intermediate position between a front pillar and a center pillar) of a rocker. By setting this metal bracket on the outer side of the rocker, in addition to an impact beam disposed inside a door, an acceleration (sensor G) transmitted to the side-collision detection sensor disposed inside the center pillar increases during a side-collision against a pole in a diagonal direction, so the side-collision state can be reliably and rapidly detected even at a position distant from the center pillar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshihiro Iwano, Takashi Yao
  • Patent number: 7884740
    Abstract: A vehicle detection apparatus adopting microwave sensing schemes for performing the multi-lane vehicle detection is provided in the present invention. According to the present invention, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the detected reflecting wave is varied within an inconsiderable range so that the provided apparatus may exhibit a unique property which is adoptable for the multi-lane vehicle detection and the precision is unachievable by the existing detectors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: National Chiao Tung University
    Inventors: Ching-Kuang C. Tzuang, Chi-Ho Chang
  • Patent number: 7884739
    Abstract: Traffic disturbances are detected and data is collected by various sensors where the data reflects the entity that is responsible for the disturbance and the number of vehicles that are impacted by the disturbance. The data is analyzed to determine whether a traffic violation has occurred and to then assess a fine based at least on the number of vehicles that have been impacted as a result of the traffic violation. The fine may then be collected by notifying the entity that is responsible, such as by sending a message to an electronic device of the entity. The notification may provide for an automated payment of the fine or an option to appeal the fine. Additionally, those affected by the traffic disturbance may be identified and granted a portion of the fine that has been imposed and collected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2011
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property I, LP
    Inventors: Jonathan Reeves, Barrett Kreiner
  • Patent number: 7881496
    Abstract: A vision system for a vehicle includes an imaging device having an imaging sensor, a camera microcontroller, a display device having a display element, a display microcontroller, and at least one user input selectively actuatable by a user. The imaging device communicates an image signal to the display device via a communication link. The display microcontroller affects the image signal in response to the at least one user input. The camera microcontroller monitors the image signal on the communication link and adjusts a function of the imaging device in response to a detection of the affected image signal. The vision system may adjust a display or sensor of the system in conjunction with a distance detecting system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph Camilleri, Joel S. Gibson, Kenneth Schofield
  • Patent number: 7880643
    Abstract: A method for tracking objects, especially for monitoring traffic, wherein a sensor measuring in an essentially horizontal and radial manner detects metrical data on moving objects in the form of raw data and transmits said data to a computer unit. The raw data is processed in the computer in such a way that the objects are tracked and the geometric properties thereof are determined. The static background is autonomously recognized and adapted or updated if changes occur. Objects in a present scene are tracked and current parameters are determined and correlated with the parameters of the objects of previous scenes. The method is particularly suitable for the detection and recognition of non-static traffic infractions which can only be recognized by analyzing the tracking of an object. The invention can be used in conjunction with several sensors in existing traffic control systems. Also disclosed is a device for carrying out the above-mentioned method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Logobject AG
    Inventors: Roberto Brega, Felix H. Wullschleger
  • Patent number: 7872593
    Abstract: A system for creating an image file including a computer subsystem configured to identify camera systems having location coordinates within a target array of location coordinates is disclosed. The computer system is further configured to retrieve image data from the identified camera systems, the image data including images of a region of interest corresponding to the target array of location coordinates. The computer system is also configured to create an image file using the image data retrieved from the identified camera systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: AT&T Intellectual Property II, L.P.
    Inventors: Frank Rauscher, Carl E. Werner
  • Publication number: 20110006912
    Abstract: A safety system for providing early warning notifications to an authorized track worker performing official duties along a rail road network is disclosed herein. The safety system determines the position of the authorized worker and determines an estimated time to collision between the authorized track worker and an approaching rail vehicle. The result of the safety system is that the track worker has enough time and sufficiently accurate warning that will enable the track worker to move to a point of safety so as to remain unharmed by the approaching rail vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 7, 2009
    Publication date: January 13, 2011
    Applicant: BOMBARDIER TRANSPORTATION GMBH
    Inventors: Keith Burton Sheardown, Sathya Vagheeswar Venkatasubramanian, Jason John Freebern