Abstract: Methods and apparatus for processing non-authoritative observational data during a coordinated operation, such as a military mission. Actuation of a trigger control initiates a retrieval procedure for collecting observational data from at least one system incorporated in a vehicle. Categories associated with an observational event may be selected to classify the observational data, and the selected category may be stored with the observational data in a memory. The observational data may be stored in the memory as one or more data structures called “tags.” A tag may be transmitted in real time to one or more operators in the coordinated operation via a wireless network. Stored observational information may be reviewed and edited by an operator to add additional annotations to a tag. A secondary review by supervising personnel may determine if the non-authoritative tag should be added to an authoritative source used for planning of future missions.

Abstract: A slippage condition response system for a first machine of a plurality of machines is disclosed. The response system may have a sensing system configured to sense a parameter indicative of a slippage condition of the first machine. Additionally, the response system may have a locator configured to sense a parameter indicative of a location of the first machine. The response system may also have a transmitter. In addition, the response system may have a controller, which may be in communication with the sensing system, the locator, and the transmitter. The controller may be configured to monitor the location of the first machine. The controller may also be configured to monitor the parameter indicative of a slippage condition of the first machine. Additionally, the controller may be configured to transmit to an offboard system at least one location where the first machine experienced a slippage condition.

Abstract: A mobile station database of cellular identifications and associated position information is stored in mobile station memory. The mobile station uses the position information in the database to assist in determining a current position for the mobile based on an identifier, such as cell ID, base station BSIC, PSC, or carrier frequency. A satellite vehicle signal is searched in an uncertainty region that is a function of position information associated with the current identifier. The uncertainty region can be limited by assumed platform dynamics via predefined velocity and acceleration information. Time maintenance for the mobile station can also be achieved through known approximate position from the position database and measurement of a single satellite vehicle propagation delay. The mobile station can compare a position determination obtained through satellite vehicle signals with position database information to determine the validity of that position.

Abstract: A method for offering a user reward based on a chosen navigation route includes calculating alternative routes from a starting location to a destination location by taking into consideration route segments including public transportation route segments and road network route segments. The alternative routes are presented to a user. A reward is offered for choosing a respective one of the routes. A navigation system that performs the route calculation preferably queries a network database for public transportation information.

Abstract: A vehicle monitoring system includes a communication subsystem configured to provide two-way wireless communication, and a controller mounted in a vehicle and configured to receive data indicative of a location of the vehicle and to control the communication subsystem to transmit the data indicative of the vehicle location toward a remote communication center and receive operational information transmitted from the remote communication center. The controller receives a mode change command included in the operational information and in response changes operating mode between an authorization mode, in which the controller transmits an alert signal to the remote communication center, and a tracking mode, in which the controller transmits the data indicative of vehicle location continuously at predetermined intervals regardless of the authorization signal.

Abstract: A system for controlling flight of an aircraft has sensors, a receiver, and a digital control system, all of which are carried aboard the aircraft. The sensors determine the position of the aircraft relative to the earth and the inertial movement of the aircraft. The receiver receives transmitted data communicating the position and movement of a reference vehicle relative to the earth. The control system calculates the position and velocity of the aircraft relative to the reference vehicle using the data from the sensors and the receiver and then commands flight control devices on the aircraft for maneuvering the aircraft in a manner that maintains a selected position and/or velocity relative to the reference vehicle. The system allows use of a graphical or tactile user interfaces.

Abstract: A system and method for data logging of telematics events by a vehicle telematics unit. Upon detection of a telematics event, checks are made to determine if location data logging is enabled and if the telematics event is an incoming personal call. If the location data logging is enabled and the telematics event is not an incoming personal call, then a data log entry is created that includes the current vehicle location; otherwise, a data log entry without any location information is created. Thereafter, the data log entries can be uploaded to a call center for analysis. Procedures for handling data logging during a standby mode of the telematics unit are also provided.

Abstract: A vehicle identification system includes a vehicle identification information extraction unit to extract vehicle identification information of a vehicle, a network unit, a vehicle identification information checking unit, a locating unit, and a matching unit. The vehicle identification information checking unit communicates with a missing vehicle database through the network unit, and compares the extracted vehicle identification information of the vehicle against the missing vehicle database. The locating unit detects a location signal, when the extracted vehicle identification information and the missing vehicle database achieve a match. The matching unit combines the image of the vehicle with the location signal and records the combined vehicle information, subsequently transmits the combined vehicle information to an inquiry of missing vehicle database through the network unit.

Abstract: A method and apparatus making an asset apparent. The method and apparatus may be configured to obtain an asset apparency request to locate an asset, wherein the asset apparency request includes an identification code corresponding to the asset, to generate an asset apparency message, wherein the asset apparency message includes an identification code corresponding to the user, the identification code corresponding to the asset, and one or more instructions to trigger the asset to perform one or more functionalities to make the asset apparent, and to transmit, to a central processing facility wherein the asset apparency message is processed by the central processing facility by: determining a unique identifying value for the asset from the identification codes corresponding to the user and the asset, and transmitting the one or more instructions to trigger the asset to perform one or more functionalities to make the asset apparent.

Abstract: Estimating a current location of a receiver in a MediaFLO™ (Forward Link Only) mobile multimedia multicast system comprises receiving digital signals comprising a MediaFLO™ superframe comprising orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) symbols; performing slot 3 processing of each medium access control (MAC) time unit of a data channel to identify a transmitter identity (TxID) of each transmitter; identifying corresponding geographical coordinates of each TxID; regenerating the digital signals for each of the transmitters using a local-area differentiator (LID) and a wide-area differentiator (WID) of the transmitters; dividing the digital signals by the corresponding regenerated transmitted signal to obtain channel estimates between the receiver and the corresponding transmitters; detecting a first peak in the channel estimates to determine a distance between the receiver and the corresponding transmitters; calculating a time difference of arrival of the digital signals; and estimating a current loca

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for making as asset apparent. An individual wishing to locate an asset uses an apparatus to enter an identification code corresponding to the asset. The identification code is transmitted in a request to the asset, where it is processed to determine how to make the asset apparent. The asset then makes itself apparent to the individual, typically by audio or visual means.

Abstract: An exclusion zone compliance circuit comprises a terrestrial radio signal reception component for receiving a terrestrial radio signal comprising a unique identification of a transmission source. A non-volatile memory component of the circuit stores an encrypted data set describing boundaries of an exclusion zone. A navigation data deriving component of the circuit accesses a data set and compares the unique identification with a station identification of the transmission source and the geographic position of the transmission source. The navigation data deriving component derives a geographic position of the exclusion zone compliance circuit and determines whether the exclusion zone compliance circuit is located within an exclusion zone. A data blocking component of the circuit accesses the encrypted data set. A data control component of the exclusion zone compliance circuit blocks output of a signal in response to an indication that the circuit is located within an exclusion zone.

Abstract: An indoor location system having a sensor and a method for checking an indoor location using the indoor location system are disclosed. The method includes: calculating a current location coordinate by using nodes; calculating a first movement distance by comparing the current location coordinate and a stored previous location coordinate; calculating a second movement distance through a sensor; and storing the current location coordinate instead of the previous location coordinate when the distance between the first movement distance and the second movement distance is smaller than a predetermined threshold value. Accordingly, an accurate location of an object can be recognized indoors and an error can be prevented from being caused when the location of the object is recognized.

Abstract: A method is provided for locating a parked vehicle that includes, but is not limited to determination of information about the location of the vehicle, transmission of the information to a portable localization device, and storage of the information in the localization device for later retrieval of the information. The information about the environment of the vehicle is also determined and transmitted to the portable localization device, such as a mobile terminal.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to a communication method for monitoring the position of a construction machine.

Abstract: Radio frequency identification tags are spaced apart from one another in or around a work area for the vehicle. Each of the tags has a corresponding unique identifier. A path planning module establishes a path comprising a path segment between at least two of the radio frequency identification tags. The path segment comprises at least one of a distance between the tags, an angular heading between the tags, and unique identifiers corresponding to the tags. A data processor determines an estimated position of the vehicle based on at least one of odometer data and accelerometer data. A vehicle controller navigates between at least two of the radio frequency identification tags based on the estimated position, the distance and the angular heading. A reader reads the tag identifiers of each tag to track the progress of the vehicle to facilitate execution of or retrieval of any next path segment of the vehicle along the established path.

Abstract: A navigation device is disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the navigation device includes a storage device to store map information; a processor to determine a route of travel based upon a current position of the navigation device and an input or selected destination position; and a display to display the current position on the map information corresponding to the determined route of travel, the display displaying zoomed-in display of the map information upon the processor determining that a decision point is within a threshold distance of the current position of the navigation device.

Abstract: A user device application transmits the device's location and unique identifier with a message requesting location information that corresponds to a vehicle associated with the user device's unique identifier. The application sends the request message over a communication network to a central computer. The central computer obtains location information corresponding to the vehicle from a device proximate the vehicle. The central computer compares the locations of the user device and telematics device and generates a location differential value corresponding to the distance between them. If the differential value meets predetermined criteria, the central computer causes an action, for example forwarding the location information corresponding to the vehicle to the requesting user device. Or, the central computer sends the requesting device a request denied message. The central computer may also deny the request when the vehicle is moving, or if the user device has requested the vehicle's location too frequently.

Abstract: This invention provides a global strategic picture of commodity movements generated by tracking ships from satellite and other sources and then combining ship location and movement information with at least one other data set, such as vessel, port, cargo, weather, or market data. Ship positions are integrated with other data, such as vessel, port, cargo, weather, and market information, to create a global strategic picture of commodity flows. A global strategic picture may then be generated by combining (i) ship movements gathered by satellite and other sources, with (ii) vessel, port, cargo, weather, market, and other data from existing sources, and (iii) a time history of these data sets.

Abstract: A system for controlling flight of an aircraft has sensors (37, 43), a receiver (45), and a digital control system (57), all of which are carried aboard the aircraft. The sensors (37, 43) determine the position of the aircraft relative to the earth and the inertial movement of the aircraft. The receiver (45) receives transmitted data (51, 55) communicating the position and movement of a reference vehicle relative to the earth. The control system (57) calculates the position and velocity of the aircraft relative to the reference vehicle using the data from the sensors (37, 43) and the receiver (45) and then commands flight control devices (33) on the aircraft for maneuvering the aircraft in a manner that maintains a selected position and/or velocity relative to the reference vehicle. The system allows use of a graphical or tactile user interfaces.

Abstract: Methods and systems for indicating the location of a vehicle to a user are provided. An alert is generated with a device onboard the vehicle when a distance between an electronic device and the vehicle is less than a predetermined distance. A property of the alert is varied to indicate the location of the vehicle to the user.

Abstract: A communications hub for a vehicle includes a telematics device including a first communications interface to an external wireless network, a second communications interface to a plurality of vehicle sensors, and a global positioning system (GPS) interface. The telematics device is configured to (i) identify the driver of a vehicle; (ii) retrieve a profile for the driver including a profile permissions log; (iii) establish communications with the wireless network; (iv) establish communications with the vehicle sensor; (v) gather location information from the GPS interface; (v) collect data from a plurality of vehicle sensors; and (vi) send the collected data to an external recipient based on the profile permissions log.

Abstract: A control unit 10 detects the presence/absence of receiving position information based on the position data provided from a GPS receiver 14. While the GPS receiver 14 is supplying no position data, the control unit 10 computes the travel distance of a vehicle according to a vehicle speed pulse signal input from a vehicle speed pulse input unit 18. When the obtained travel distance exceeds a predetermined distance, the control unit 10 determines abnormal reception due to faulty equipment. The predetermined distance is set in advance based on a reception disability area, etc. When the control unit 10 determines abnormal reception due to faulty equipment, it turns on an orange indicator. Thus, the person in the vehicle can recognize the abnormal reception due to faulty equipment.

Abstract: A method for establishing communication with a mobile vehicle includes determining whether the mobile vehicle is within a predetermined geographic region and initiating a time trigger based on the determination. The method further includes initiating communication between the mobile vehicle and a central node via a wireless connection based on the time trigger.

Abstract: A vehicle key for radio communication with a vehicle. The vehicle key has a radio transmitter for transmitting radio signals to the vehicle. The vehicle key has a radio receiver and/or audio receiver to be able to locate the vehicle within close range. A bidirectional communication with a transceiver of the vehicle is set up by the radio receiver and/or the audio receiver and the radio transmitter. Furthermore, a corresponding method for locating the vehicle by using the vehicle key is described.

Abstract: A remote keyless entry system is provided comprising a handheld remote keyless entry transmitter in selectable wireless communication with a car based entry system. The handheld remote keyless entry transmitter comprises an integrated electronic compass element and logic adapted to store a first compass direction when activated and directed towards a destination. The logic further is adapted to display a return compass direction and a return distance from the car based entry system when activated leaving the destination.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of monitoring the position of a vehicle, vessel, rail car, barge, tanker truck that is loaded with bulk or hazardous material. A G.P.S unit is set to send a signal to a radio transmitter if the unit moves beyond a maximum permissible distance (for example, 50 feet or more). An oxygen sensor can be used to send a signal to a radio transmitter if oxygen levels fall below a selected minimum concentration. The radio transmitter can send the message to a tugboat crew, police department, fire department, company headquarters, civil defense office or other personnel if either of the unit has moved beyond the selected maximum travel distance or if oxygen levels fall below a minimum concentration. In addition to the radio transmission of oxygen concentration data and/or G.P.S position data, visible or audible alarms can be used such as strobe light, horn or the like.

Abstract: The invention relates to a wheel guide rail (9; 10; 13; 14) for a car wash system for laterally delimiting a travel range (4) of a vehicle to be treated in the car wash system and a car wash system comprising treatment devices (1, 1?, 3, 3?) that can travel along a direction of travel (F) for a vehicle to be treated, a pair of wheel guide rails (10, 10?) disposed at the wash system floor (B) between the treatment devices (1, 1?, 3, 3?) and running in the direction of travel (F) and at a distance from one another perpendicular to the direction of travel (F), said guide rails delimiting a lateral travel range (4) for the vehicle.

Abstract: The approximate location of a directed cell of a cellular network is calculated based on locations in the vicinity of which mobile devices were able to detect the directed cell. A mobile device is able to estimate its own location from the approximate locations of one or more directed cells that it can identify. This estimated location of the mobile device may be used to seed its GPS receiver.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for communication between a vehicle travelling along a route and a stationary system. The vehicle is equipped with a communication unit to communicate messages to the stationary system. The method includes dividing the route into a plurality of partial sections, defining for each partial section a required information flow from the vehicle, and adapting the communication to this definition. The method makes it possible to command the communication unit to communicate with correctly adjusted accuracy. This also improves the possibility of effectively utilizing the traffic information in local units, for instance for displays and traffic signals.

Abstract: A guidance route search device essentially having means for specifying a route point and means for selecting a guidance schedule. The route specifying means specifies plural route points guided up to a destination point. The selecting means functions to select a guidance schedule covering plural route points reachable by previously set time of arrival at a destination point and causing staying time at the plural route points to be the maximum within maximum staying time set in advance for the route points. This enables a guidance schedule for guiding through plural route points to be generated with consideration of staying time at each route point.

Abstract: The invention provides a system for parking time estimations, the system comprising at least one device able to sense at least momentary location and respective time; and an application server to receive from a plurality of the devices time series of location points and to calculate, based on the received time series of location points, duration of searches for parking spots. The invention provides a method for parking time estimations, the method comprising detecting beginning of searching for a parking spot by a user of a device able to sense at least momentary location and respective time; detecting time of parking; and calculating at least estimated duration of searching for a parking spot.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing public transportation information and using the provided information are discussed. A method for encoding transportation information in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention creates information on a bus route, creates information on the current location and availability of each bus running on the bus route, and creates status information containing the created information. A method for encoding transportation information in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention creates information on a bus stop, creates information on the route, current location, and availability of each bus to arrive at the bus stop, and creates status information containing the created information. The constructed status information can be transmitted wirelessly along with containers carrying other types of information such as management or location information.

Abstract: A remote keyless entry system is provided comprising a handheld remote keyless entry transmitter in selectable wireless communication with a car based entry system. The handheld remote keyless entry transmitter comprises an integrated electronic compass element and logic adapted to store a first compass direction when activated and directed towards a destination. The logic further is adapted to display a return compass direction and a return distance from the car based entry system when activated leaving the destination.

Abstract: A method of indicating a proximity value representative of the distance between a key fob (202) and a vehicle (102) includes transmitting (304, 406, 504) at least one locate signal from the key fob (202) to the vehicle (102), transmitting (364, 468, 562) at least one response signal from the vehicle (102) to the key fob (202) in response to the at least one locate signal, performing (362, 462, 510) RSSI measurements of either the at least one locate signal or the at least one response signal, and displaying (318, 412, 514) the proximity value on the key fob (202) based on the RSSI measurements.

Abstract: A system for determining a region searched (3003, 5001, 5002, 7002, 7003, 8001, 8002, 8003) by a moving scent detector (201) in the presence of wind, said moving scent detector having pre-calibrated scent capabilities, the system comprises: positioning means (101) attached to the moving scent detector for determining a trajectory (3001) followed by the moving scent detector; scent pattern obtainment means for obtaining an oriented scent pattern (2003, 3002, 4001); and, combination means arranged for combining said trajectory and said oriented scent pattern to obtain the region searched by said moving scent detector. The invention also relates to a method for determining a region searched by a moving scent detector in the presence of wind.

Abstract: A circuit for exclusion zone compliance is recited. In one embodiment, the circuit comprises a satellite navigation signal reception component configured for receiving at least one signal from at least one Global Navigation Satellite System satellite and a navigation data deriving component configured for deriving position data and a clock time from the at least one signal. The circuit further comprises a non-volatile memory component configured for storing an encrypted data set describing the boundaries of an exclusion zone and a data blocking component configured for controlling the accessing of the encrypted data set. The circuit further comprises a data control component configured for blocking the output of a signal from the circuit in response an indication selected from the group consisting of: an indication that the circuit is located within an exclusion zone and an indication that output of said signal is not permitted based upon said clock time.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing public transportation information and using the provided information, are discussed. When creating information on each bus stop such as the bus stop ID and a distance between bus stops, a method for encoding transportation information in accordance with an embodiment creates information on nearby subway stations accessible on foot and/or nearby bus stops located on bus routes (or bus lines) that do not pass the bus stop as well, and constructs status information containing the created information. One or more messages containing the status information can be transmitted wirelessly.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method of monitoring the position of a vehicle, vessel, rail car, barge, tanker truck that is loaded with bulk or hazardous material. A G.P.S unit is set to send a signal to a radio transmitter if the unit moves beyond a maximum permissible distance (for example, 50 feet or more). An oxygen sensor can be used to send a signal to a radio transmitter if oxygen levels fall below a selected minimum concentration. The radio transmitter can send the message to a tugboat crew, police department, fire department, company headquarters, civil defense office or other personnel if either of the unit has moved beyond the selected maximum travel distance or if oxygen levels fall below a minimum concentration. In addition to the radio transmission of oxygen concentration data and/or G.P.S position data, visible or audible alarms can be used such as strobe light, horn or the like.

Abstract: A pet location system having a pet locator with GPS capabilities in communication with a wireless network such that a user interface accessible on a common computer network or by telephone is provided. The pet location system includes access to the user interface via a computer on the common computer network or via a telecommunications network.

Abstract: The telematics service providing system generates a path from the departure point to the destination based on traffic information, generates guidance information for each guidance point where a turn to a direction that is different from the current progress direction of the client is needed on the generated path, clips a vicinity map covering a predetermined area with reference to the guidance point from the total map to generate a guidance point vicinity map, converts the generated guidance point vicinity map into a format displayable by the client, and provides the converted map to the client terminal. Accordingly, confusion caused by complex crossroads or paths that need consecutive and same direction turns may be prevented, the client terminal may not need a memory for storing large-volume geographic information data, and the client may not additionally need to upgrade the geographic information data.

Abstract: The object of the invention is an arrangement for communication and location tracking, which comprises at least one or more server apparatuses and a plurality of remote terminals, the position of which is arranged to be located by satellites and which comprises at least means for sending information to the server apparatus. The means in the remote terminals are equipped to send information concerning the position of the remote terminal and other information collected by the remote terminal wirelessly to the server apparatus, and the server apparatus is provided with at least connection means for receiving information coming from the remote terminal, with a database for recording information coming from the remote terminal, with processing means for processing information sent by the remote terminal, and also with a control system for coordinating and controlling the different functions of the arrangement for communication and location tracking.

Abstract: The invention provides a sensor for determining when a latch for securing an engine cowl on an aircraft is secured by detecting the proximity of a latch hook and a latch pin. The sensor includes a resonant circuit configured and adapted to transmit a status signal when the latch is in a secured state. The sensor also includes a means for conveying status information of the latch to a location remote from the latch based on the status signal, the conveying means being operably connected to the resonant circuit. The invention also provides a method of determining when a latch is open or secured by detecting the proximity of a latch hook and a latch pin.

Abstract: A system is provided which is capable of controlling one or more parameters of a vehicle, such as vehicle speed or engine RPM. The system involves communication between a transmitter and a controller. The transmitter has memory containing information that corresponds to a vehicle parameter setting. The information is operatively transmitted from the transmitter to the controller. Once the controller receives the information, the vehicle parameter setting is identified by the controller. When the setting is identified, the controller may adjust at least one mechanism on the vehicle so as modify the vehicle parameter accordingly. One scenario in which the parameter modification is generally provided is if the controller determines that the vehicle parameter is exceeding the identified setting, which corresponds to the vehicle being operated at a level higher than that intended for the vehicle operator.

Abstract: There are provided a guide route search device and a guide route search method for searching a guide route via a plurality of points as well as a computer program for realizing the method. A guide route satisfying the route point condition such as a stay time at each point is searched. According to another aspect of the invention, after searching a guide route, an operator can perform a correction such as addition, deletion, or modification of the route points or rearrangement of the arrival order at the points. It is possible to judge whether the guide route after the correction satisfies the route point condition. According to still another aspect of the invention, a guide route is superimposed together with the current position on the map image. The map color and/or brightness is changed according to the arrival time at a route point.

Abstract: A vehicle monitoring and traffic enforcement system in which a wireless communication device is associated with motor vehicles. The device will transmit vehicle identification data which is relayed to a database which maintains current information concerning insurance law compliance, motor vehicle registration and licensing compliance, traffic citations and other information. If a violation or compliance failure is noted, this is transmitted to a law enforcement agency and a nearby law enforcement vehicle. A law enforcement officer may be required to pursue the vehicle depending on the violation and traffic conditions. The system uses GPS and GIS technology to provide law enforcement with a real time display which will not only show the vehicle being tracked but also a map of the area showing roads, traffic conditions and even the location of other law enforcement or emergency vehicles so that officials may make a safe and fast response to situations.

Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed for utilizing one or more tablet computer assemblies in a portable communications system. A tablet computer assembly includes a global positioning system module, an L-band transceiver, and a processing system. The global positioning system module that produces location information associated with the position of the tablet computer assembly. The L-band transceiver broadcasts the location information to at least one portable communication device through a relay network and receives location information from the at least one portable communications device via the relay network. The processing unit provides messages to the L-band transceiver and updates a display associated with the tablet computer assembly according the received location information and the location information produced at the global positioning system module.

Abstract: An end of train unit includes a positioning system such as a GPS receiver and is configured to transmit a message including the EOT unit's location when the EOT unit detects a loss of air pipe pressure and/or it is tipped over and/or a low battery condition is detected. In highly preferred embodiments, the EOT unit periodically re-transmits the message until an acknowledgment message is received. In some embodiments, information from the positioning system is used to create a signal as a substitute for a motion sensor. In other embodiments, information from the positioning system is used to determine the speed of the end of the train. End of train unit tracking is also performed.

Abstract: System, methods, and computer program products are provided for surveillance, traffic monitoring, and red light enforcement. In one embodiment, the system may monitor zones of interest; capture, time stamp, and store images of the zones of interest; determine that an event has occurred within one of the zones of interest; and request the stored images of the zone of interest during the time the event occurred.

Abstract: A system and method for providing real-time traffic information using a wireless vehicle-to-vehicle communications network. A vehicle includes a plurality of sensors that detect other vehicles around the vehicle. The wireless communications system on the vehicle uses the sensor signals to calculate a traffic condition index that identifies traffic information around the vehicle. The vehicle broadcasts the traffic condition index to other vehicles and/or road side infrastructure units that can present the information to the vehicle driver, such as in a navigation system, and/or rebroadcast the traffic information to other vehicles. The traffic condition index can be calculated using the speed of the surrounding vehicles, posted speed limits, the distance between the surrounding vehicles and the traffic density of the surrounding vehicles.