For Multiple Vehicles (e.g., Fleet, Etc.) Patents (Class 701/29.3)
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Patent number: 8670893Abstract: A framework for supporting one or more repair processes of one or more aircraft. The repair processes are based on repair information or repair solution corresponding to the damages to one or more structural components of the aircraft. The framework includes a knowledge engine, and a deployment engine. The knowledge engine automatically generates one or more knowledge interpretation systems based on the user inputs. The knowledge interpretation systems provide the repair information corresponding to the various structural components of the aircraft based on the user inputs. The deployment engine fulfills the deployment requirements corresponding to the one or more knowledge interpretation systems.Type: GrantFiled: February 9, 2012Date of Patent: March 11, 2014Assignee: Infosys LimitedInventors: Veera Venkata Ravi Kumar Geddam, Sambasiva Rao Maddali, Devaraja Holla Vaderahobli, Narendhar Rao Soma, Rajesh Balakrishnan, Venugopal Subbarao, Sandeep Kumar Dewangan
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Patent number: 8666587Abstract: The illustrative embodiments provide a method for processing sensor data and controlling the movement of a vehicle. In one illustrative embodiment, a vehicle having a plurality of sensors attempts to receive sensor data. In response to an inability of the vehicle to obtain needed sensor data, collected sensor data is requested from a plurality of other vehicles to form alternate sensor data. The alternate sensor data is received and the vehicle is controlled using the alternate sensor data. In another illustrative embodiment, a request is received at a first vehicle for sensor data from a different vehicle. Sensor data is collected from a plurality of sensors at the first vehicle. The sensor data is then sent to the different vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2013Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventor: Noel W. Anderson
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Patent number: 8666586Abstract: An enterprise fuel management system for managing fueling operations of an aircraft fleet operated by a fleet operator having a central computer system at a data center and operating aircraft at multiple airports avoids reliability problems associated with synchronizing a central database with local databases. Data collection units communicate collected fueling information wirelessly to a central data center, and the data collection units are not in direct communication with the fleet operator's central computer system. Moreover, the central data center gathers fueling information from the various data collection units and communicates the gathered fueling information to the fleet operator's central computer system as data messages for subsequent processing and action.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2011Date of Patent: March 4, 2014Assignee: QT TechnologiesInventors: Gerasimos A. Portocalis, Gail A. Moser, James R. Wright
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Publication number: 20140058616Abstract: Industrial vehicles communicate across a wireless environment where the wireless communication, data collection and/or processing capabilities of industrial vehicles are utilized to implement dashboard functions that thread status information from detail level views, up through intermediate views and to summary level views to facilitate efficient fleet maintenance, management and control. Further, industrial vehicle data may be communicated to a trusted third party server. As such, wirelessly collected industrial vehicle information is utilized within applications that aggregate and analyze data across multiple enterprises.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 1, 2013Publication date: February 27, 2014Applicant: CROWN EQUIPMENT CORPORATIONInventors: Sergio Schulte de Oliveira, Benjamin J. Purrenhage, Philip W. Swift, David K. Tinnerman, Jeffrey C. Whitford
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Publication number: 20140058615Abstract: Systems and methods for detecting anomalous behavior in one of a fleet of machines are provided. Data regarding a single characteristic representative of operation of the mechanical system is collected from each machine in a fleet. The systems and methods are configured for processing of the data to determine and indicate when significant deviations from normal operating conditions are occurring that represent the departure from normal operation condition by one or more of the machines in the fleet.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 21, 2012Publication date: February 27, 2014Inventors: Charles Terrance Hatch, Adam Anthony Weiss, Steven Ross Hadley
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Patent number: 8660791Abstract: A method of tracking a fleet of machines operating at a common worksite is disclosed. The method may include receiving at a central controller an unacknowledged message from communicating devices onboard the fleet of machines, the unacknowledged message including a current location of each of the fleet of machines determined by locating devices onboard the fleet of machines. The method may also include updating a location listing of the fleet of machines with the current location, and repetitively multicasting the location listing to the communicating devices.Type: GrantFiled: June 30, 2011Date of Patent: February 25, 2014Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Craig L. Koehrsen, Darryl V. Collins, Bryan J. Everett
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Publication number: 20140052499Abstract: In a method for managing a vehicle fleet using operational and maintenance data, wherein the improvement comprises the steps of also using financial, environmental, and industry data.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 25, 2010Publication date: February 20, 2014Inventors: Ronald E. Wagner, Robert Charlton, Greg Thompson, Robert Ufford
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Publication number: 20140052501Abstract: In a method for in service support for a vehicle fleet wherein the improvement comprises providing Reliability Centered Maintenance (RCM), Conditioned Based Maintenance (CBM), Fleet Management (FM), Vehicle/Component Asset Tracking, Stores/Consumable Inventory, and maintenance management.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 25, 2010Publication date: February 20, 2014Inventors: Richard G. Dickson, Ronald E. Wagner, Richard A. Woehl
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Patent number: 8655698Abstract: This invention relates to an automated method and system for forming and implementing a performance-based logistic contract through managing the maintenance an item of equipment in accordance with a maintenance plan. Embodiments of the present invention include a method and system for maintaining an item of equipment supports the provision of predictive maintenance in a manner which eliminates or reduces downtime of the equipment. The method includes tracking performance data on the equipment or a particular component of the equipment. At least one required maintenance activity is predicted based upon the performance data with respect to a defined performance standard. Performance of the required maintenance activity is scheduled at a defined respective time based upon the prediction.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2007Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: Accenture Global Services LimitedInventors: David P. West, II, Sherman Baldwin, Michael Wetzer, Patrick E. Weir, Gary R. Garrow, Charles P. Newton, III
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Patent number: 8655540Abstract: A solution for further automating the identification and processing of rail vehicles is provided. Each individual rail vehicle in a series of rail vehicles is identified and data is acquired for the rail vehicle. Identification of each rail vehicle can be implemented using a set of electromagnetic beams that are emitted and detected across a set of rails in such a manner as to enable the reliable identification of individual rail vehicles. Data acquisition for the rail vehicles can include evaluation of one or more parts of the rail vehicle, particularly the rail wheels, for the presence of one or more defects. Data on the part(s), such as rail wheels, can be reliably assigned to a corresponding rail vehicle by also accounting for changes in the direction of movement of the rail vehicle in locations such as a classification yard.Type: GrantFiled: March 6, 2008Date of Patent: February 18, 2014Assignee: International Electronic Machines Corp.Inventors: Zahid F. Mian, Jeremy C. Mullaney
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Patent number: 8649932Abstract: A solution for evaluating a vehicle using infrared data is provided. In particular, evaluation data for the vehicle is obtained, which includes infrared data for a plurality of sides of the vehicle as well as vehicle identification data for distinguishing the vehicle from another vehicle. The infrared data is processed to enhance a set of signal features. Additional non-infrared based data also can be obtained for evaluating the vehicle. The evaluation data is analyzed to determine whether one or more anomalies are present. The anomaly(ies) can be correlated with a possible problem with a component of the vehicle. Data on the anomaly, problem, and/or vehicle identification can be provided for use on another system, such as a remote inspection station, maintenance system, and/or the like.Type: GrantFiled: June 6, 2013Date of Patent: February 11, 2014Assignee: International Electronic Machines Corp.Inventors: Zahid F. Mian, Robert W. Foss
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Patent number: 8649964Abstract: An other vehicle information providing device, can be configured to assign priority to a plurality of other vehicle information inputted to the own vehicle and provides other vehicle information having high priority. The other vehicle information providing device includes a priority memory means for storing priority information. An information switching index value calculation means which predicts future priority after a lapse of a predetermined period based on the stored priority information, which can include latest priority and priority previous to the latest priority, and calculates an information switching index value based on the latest priority, the priority previous to the latest priority, the priority before the priority previous to the latest priority and the future priority. An information providing means provides other vehicle information based on the information switching index value.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2011Date of Patent: February 11, 2014Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Tokujiro Kizaki
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Patent number: 8639408Abstract: The illustrative embodiments provide a method and apparatus for controlling and coordinating multiple vehicles. In one illustrative embodiment, machine behaviors are assigned to multiple vehicles performing a task. The vehicles are coordinated to perform the task using the assigned behaviors and a number of signals received from other vehicles and the environment during performance of the task. In another illustrative embodiment, a role is identified for each vehicle in a group of vehicles. A number of machine behaviors are assigned to each vehicle depending upon the identified role for the vehicle. The machine behaviors are selected from coordinating machine behaviors stored in a behavior library. Each vehicle is then coordinated to perform the task according to the role and machine behaviors assigned.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2008Date of Patent: January 28, 2014Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventor: Noel Wayne Anderson
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Patent number: 8626376Abstract: A system for wireless process control comprises at least a first wireless network, which is used to communicate real-time instructions and data between one or more pieces of mobile equipment to at least one other piece of mobile equipment. In one variant, a second wireless network is provided, using a different radio frequency band, to concurrently communicate the same or substantially the same real-time instructions and data as are communicated over the first wireless network.Type: GrantFiled: January 24, 2008Date of Patent: January 7, 2014Assignee: Suncor Energy Inc.Inventors: Derrick Trottier, Jamie Haggett
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Patent number: 8620515Abstract: An intelligent fleet management system and a related method of operation provide a higher level of legal compliance and public road safety by requiring a commercial driver an electronic form of a driver's identification in a commercial vehicle. In one embodiment of the invention, the electronic form of the driver's identification is validated and additionally authenticated by a driver-specific PIN entry to a vehicle fleet management system interface device installed in a commercial vehicle. The vehicle fleet management system interface device can also communicate with a monitoring station via a data network for dynamically-generated alerts and periodic reports associated with vehicle speeds, driving pattern analysis utilizing various sensors, unexpected stops, and continuous driving which exceed a mandatory rest requirement. The monitoring station is able to disable the commercial vehicle remotely or take other actions based on an alert generated from the vehicle fleet management system interface device.Type: GrantFiled: May 1, 2012Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: Hana Micron America, Inc.Inventor: Sung Bok Kwak
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Patent number: 8620714Abstract: Methods and systems for prognostic condition assessment decision aid of a fleet of vehicles are disclosed. In one embodiment, a method includes providing a schedule of missions and maintenance of a fleet of vehicles, comprising receiving data from the fleet of vehicles for missions and maintenance activity, determining mission and maintenance requirements, processing the received data and requirements to provide an operational allocation of the fleet of vehicles, determining an alternative allocation of the operational allocation of the fleet of vehicles, the alternative allocation satisfying at least one operational objective for the fleet of vehicles, and generating a schedule for the alternative allocation of the fleet of vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: November 28, 2006Date of Patent: December 31, 2013Assignee: The Boeing CompanyInventors: Zachary C. Williams, James L. Poblete
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Publication number: 20130338855Abstract: In one embodiment, a system for presenting fleet vehicle operation information in standardized forms includes a telematics module and a data standardizing module. The telematics module receives measurements related to operation of multiple vehicles in a fleet. The data standardizing module, using a first technique, estimates a first value for a parameter for at least one vehicle of the multiple vehicles based at least on the measurements. Further, the data standardizing module, using a second technique, estimates a second value for the parameter for at least one vehicle of the multiple vehicles based at least on the measurements. The second technique including using some measurement to estimate the second value different from the measurements used to estimate the first value according to the first technique. The data standardizing module outputs one or both of the first value and the second value for presentation to a user.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 18, 2013Publication date: December 19, 2013Inventors: Ralph James Mason, David John Mitchell, John Thomas Morris
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Patent number: 8606456Abstract: The invention relates to a method for propelling an articulated tracked vehicle (1) provided with at least a front and rear vehicle portion (2, 4), comprising a front drive shaft (6), which rotates a front track (8) on the front vehicle portion (2); a rear drive shaft (10), which rotates a rear track (12) on the rear vehicle portion (4), the front drive shaft (6) being disposed in the front vehicle portion (2) and the rear drive shaft (10) being disposed in the rear vehicle portion (4). At least one motor (20, 34, 36) rotates the respective front and rear drive shaft (6, 10) in order thus to propel the vehicle (1) at a speed in relation to a ground surface (16). The front drive shaft (6) is rotated at a first speed and the rear drive shaft (10) is rotated at a second speed, which first and second speeds are different, so that the front and rear tracks (8, 12) rotate at different speeds.Type: GrantFiled: September 21, 2010Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Assignee: BAE Systems Hägglunds AktiebolagInventor: Björn Nordberg
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Publication number: 20130325247Abstract: A train system that includes a plurality of coupled train units. Each train unit includes a controller VOBC configured to independently determine the location of each VOBC, and a configuration of the train system by comprising a plurality of inputs, a plurality of train lines spanning each train unit and coupled with the controllers at the plurality of inputs and configured to transmit two communication signals between a front end and a rear end of the train system, and a plurality of sets of relay devices connected in series along the plurality of train lines, and each set of relay devices corresponding to each input of the plurality of inputs, and configured to transmit the two communication signals between the front end and the rear end of the train system.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 29, 2012Publication date: December 5, 2013Applicant: THALES CANADA, INC.Inventors: Abe KANNER, Ioan FARCASIU, Dave DIMMER
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Patent number: 8600609Abstract: A method for operating a longitudinal driver assist system of an automobile, in particular an ACC system, wherein environmental data of the automobile are evaluated with respect to travel in a longitudinal convoy with at least three automobiles which include the automobile and at least two additional automobiles, which are driving immediately behind one another and each have an active longitudinal driver assist system. A convoy value is formed, and at least one operating parameter of the driver assist system is adapted depending on the convoy value.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 2012Date of Patent: December 3, 2013Assignee: Audi AGInventors: Manfred Holzmann, Carmen Staudte
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Patent number: 8600641Abstract: A device, system and method for controlling speed of a vehicle are provided. The device includes a locational information module for determining location information and speed; a storage module for storing at least one geographic map including at least one route and a speed limit for the at least one route; a processing module configured to receive the location information, retrieve at least one geographic map based on the location information, determine a speed limit based on the location information and compare the speed of the device to the determined speed limit; and a display module for alerting a user if the speed of the device exceeds the determined speed limit. The system and method can be for communicating a subject vehicle's speed to a central server where it can be utilized to analyze traffic congestion patterns or notify selected companies or individuals.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2013Date of Patent: December 3, 2013Assignee: Clayco Research Limited Liability CompanyInventor: Leigh M. Rothschild
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Patent number: 8583320Abstract: A computer readable storage medium includes executable instructions to receive from a mobile device a request regarding a stranded vehicle. The request is processed to determine the location of the stranded vehicle. Additional information regarding the stranded vehicle may be retrieved. The location of the stranded vehicle and the additional information may be communicated as a dispatch request. The location of the stranded vehicle relative to a dispatched vehicle is delivered to the mobile device.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2009Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Esurance Insurance Services, Inc.Inventors: Frederick Miles Harris, Deepak Kumar Srinivasan, Philip James Swift, Paul David Sykes
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Patent number: 8577534Abstract: A method and a device are described for scanning the surrounding environment of a vehicle. When the vehicle falls below a first boundary speed a timer is triggered whose state is incremented until the vehicle exceeds a boundary speed, a check of the unobstructed view of the scanning device being carried out upon expiration of the time period recorded by the state of the timer and in which the state of the counter is incremented.Type: GrantFiled: September 4, 2007Date of Patent: November 5, 2013Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Stephan Dorenkamp, Volker Brichzin, Ulrich Schirm, Maria-Eugenia Garcia Bordes
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Patent number: 8554402Abstract: A method of detecting a tire having a decreased internal pressure by making a relative comparison among wheel speeds of tires attached to the respective wheels, includes detecting wheel rotation information regarding the respective tires of the vehicle; calculating wheel speeds based on the detected wheel rotation information; calculating DEL2 as a decreased pressure determination value by comparison between a front wheel speed and a rear wheel speed; and determining, when the resultant decreased pressure determination value exceeds a predetermined threshold value, that a tire has a decreased internal pressure. The method further includes a threshold value setting step of setting the predetermined threshold value based on (a) a relation obtained in advance, depending on a difference of the mass of the vehicle, between DEL2 and a load sensitivity during a vehicle turning, and (b) a load sensitivity obtained by a turning at the time of determination.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2010Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Assignee: Sumitomo Rubber Industries, Ltd.Inventor: Mitsuhiro Wada
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Publication number: 20130261876Abstract: A method for managing an airplane fleet is described. The method includes: (i) developing a gold body database for an airplane model for each non-destructive inspection system implemented to detect defects; (ii) inspecting, over a period of time, a plurality of candidate airplanes of the airplane model, using different types of non-destructive inspection systems and the gold body database associated with each of the different types of non-destructive inspection systems, to identify defects present on the plurality of candidate airplanes; (iii) repairing or monitoring defects detected on the plurality of candidate airplanes; (iv) conducting a trend analysis by analyzing collective defect data obtained from inspecting of plurality of candidate airplanes; and (v) maintaining the airplane fleet, which includes plurality of candidate airplanes, by performing predictive analysis using results of trend analysis.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2011Publication date: October 3, 2013Applicant: AEROBOTICS, Inc.Inventors: Douglas Allen Froom, William T. Manak
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Patent number: 8543282Abstract: A diagnosis and maintenance method, a diagnosis and maintenance assembly comprising a central server and a system, and a computer program for diagnosis and maintenance for a plurality of systems, particularly for a plurality of vehicles, wherein each system provides at least one system-related signal which provides the basis for the diagnosis and/or maintenance of/for the system are provided. The basis for diagnosis and/or maintenance is determined by determining for each system at least one relation between the system-related signals, comparing the compatible determined relations, determining for the plurality of systems based on the result of the comparison which relations are significant relations and providing a diagnosis and/or maintenance decision based on the determined significant relations.Type: GrantFiled: May 12, 2008Date of Patent: September 24, 2013Assignee: Volvo Technology CorporationInventors: Jörgen Hansson, Magnus Svensson, Thorsteinn Rögnvaldsson, Stefan Byttner
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Patent number: 8538627Abstract: According to a vehicular communication system (10) of the present invention, a probe information can be sent to a server (20) from a second vehicle (Q2) out of an arbitrary number of second vehicles (Q2) whose present position is located in a designated area whose information is included in a multicast received by the second vehicle (Q2), in other words, a designated area with high necessity from the viewpoint of leading smoothly a first vehicle (Q1) to a desired position (P2). Also, the probe information can be collected in real time from the second vehicle (Q2) which was present in the designated area in the past and is beyond the designated area at the present time in consideration of the high capability that it holds useful information in estimating the present state thereof in the designated area.Type: GrantFiled: November 9, 2009Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Nobuaki Asahara, Ryoji Igarashi, Hidehiko Anzai
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Publication number: 20130231826Abstract: A method includes collecting state of health (SOH) data and usage data from a plurality of vehicles. A peer group is identified among the vehicles. A vehicle health prognosis is generated for each vehicle of the peer based on the collected SOH and usage data. The vehicles of the peer group are ranked based on the generated vehicle health prognosis and the rank is reported to an output device that is associated with each vehicle or with a user of each vehicle. If evaluation of the ranking indicates that the health prognosis of a vehicle of the peer group is improvable by modifying vehicle usage, an alert is issued to a user of that vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2012Publication date: September 5, 2013Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLCInventors: Yilu ZHANG, Mutasim A. Salman, Xiaofeng Mao, Fan Bai, Xinyu Du, Bo Yu, Pulak Bandyopadhyay
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Patent number: 8527121Abstract: A display system for a vehicle includes a display screen and host machine operable for calculating a maximum theoretical range for a predetermined criterion, formulating a value function for each point in the maximum theoretical range, and calculating a solution to each of the value functions. The method also includes forming a polygon or a closed curve from the mathematical hull of all points in the maximum theoretical range having a value function solution less than corresponding limit, and displaying a perimeter of the closed curve via the display screen to indicate the effective range of the vehicle for the criterion. A vehicle includes an energy storage system, a motor/generator unit for propelling the vehicle in an electric-only (EV) mode, the display screen, and host machine, wherein the criterion is the EV mode. A method of operating the display system is also disclosed herein.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2010Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: Edward D. Tate, Jr.
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Publication number: 20130226391Abstract: A diagnostic method for a vehicle component of a vehicle, a plurality of vehicles each having the same vehicle component being provided; during the operation of the vehicles, an operating parameter of the respective vehicle component being recorded and, as a function of the recorded operating parameter, a status message corresponding to the status of the respective vehicle component being sent to a server for an evaluation of the status message. A corresponding diagnostic device, a corresponding diagnostic system and a computer program are also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 27, 2013Publication date: August 29, 2013Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Stefan NORDBRUCH, Michael KNOOP
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Publication number: 20130211660Abstract: A computer system and method for in at least one computer and a computer readable storage medium or media including computer code: receiving GPS event data transmitted from a plurality of GPS devices, each GPS device associated with a vehicle; storing in GPS event database operatively coupled to at least one of the processors, the GPS event data and peer comparison data; analyzing the GPS event data to derive a plurality of operational metrics for a plurality of the vehicles; determining if the GPS data for a statistically significant number of vehicles meets a credibility criterion for a peer comparison; and identifying at least one trend for the operational metrics for a GPS event history using the GPS event data, the at least one trend including a trend for peer comparison. The peer criterion can include a criterion defined by at least one of a geographical area and an industrial segment.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2012Publication date: August 15, 2013Applicant: FLEETMATICS IRL LIMITEDInventor: FLEETMATICS IRL LIMITED
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Patent number: 8509963Abstract: The present invention includes system and methods for managing information systems on an aircraft through the use of a remote management center. At the management center, the status information from aircraft computer systems is monitored for fault conditions. The management center then performs maintenance on the computer system when a fault condition is noticed. Exemplary systems include a remote management center that manages several different computer systems on several different manned aircraft. The management center connects to the aircraft and computer system through data links.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2009Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: Rockwell Collins, Inc.Inventors: Geoffrey J. Barnes, Richard G. Moore
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Detecting anomalies in fault code settings and enhancing service documents using analytical symptoms
Patent number: 8509985Abstract: A method is provided for identifying a root cause of a fault in a serviced vehicle based on analytical symptoms. Parameter identification data associated with identified DTCs is retrieved. Parameter identification data from a plurality of vehicles experiencing the DTCs is collected. A first set of diagnostic rules is generated that identify vehicle operating parameters for executing a DTC algorithm or for triggering a DTC. A second set of diagnostic rules is generated that identify vehicle operating parameters used for selecting field failure data obtained when the DTC is triggered. Statistically significant rules are extracted from the second set of diagnostic rules. The first set of rules and the statistically significant rules are cooperatively applied to the parameter identification data for identifying a subset of the parameter identification data that represents anomalies. A subject matter expert analyzes the anomalies for identifying a root cause of the fault.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 2011Date of Patent: August 13, 2013Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Halasya Siva Subramania, Satnam Singh, Clifton L. Pinion -
Patent number: 8504227Abstract: A charging control device is a charging control device for independently controlling charging of power storage devices in a plurality of vehicles, respectively, each having the power storage device mounted thereon, from an external power supply, in which a control ECU detects a state of charge of the power storage device when each vehicle and the external power supply are coupled to each other, detects an expected amount of power consumption for each of the plurality of vehicles, calculates a required amount of power to be charged for each vehicle based on the detected state of charge and the expected amount of power consumption, detects a time to start use of each vehicle, determines a charging schedule of a charging time period and an amount of power to be charged for each vehicle based on the required amount to be charged and the time to start use, and controls charging of the power storage devices mounted on the vehicles according to the charging schedule.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 2008Date of Patent: August 6, 2013Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Masato Ichishi
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Publication number: 20130179027Abstract: A computer system and method for storing and processing GPS data for a plurality of vehicles to provide speed reports and alerts for fleets of vehicles, including alerts for speed data.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 31, 2012Publication date: July 11, 2013Applicant: FLEETMATICS IRL LIMITEDInventor: FLEETMATICS IRL LIMITED
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Patent number: 8478480Abstract: A solution for evaluating a vehicle using infrared data is provided. In particular, evaluation data for the vehicle is obtained, which includes infrared data for a plurality of sides of the vehicle as well as vehicle identification data for distinguishing the vehicle from another vehicle. The infrared data is processed to enhance a set of signal features. Additional non-infrared based data also can be obtained for evaluating the vehicle. The evaluation data is analyzed to determine whether one or more anomalies are present. The anomaly(ies) can be correlated with a possible problem with a component of the vehicle. Data on the anomaly, problem, and/or vehicle identification can be provided for use on another system, such as a remote inspection station, maintenance system, and/or the like.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2007Date of Patent: July 2, 2013Assignee: International Electronic Machines Corp.Inventors: Zahid F. Mian, Robert W. Foss
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Publication number: 20130166135Abstract: A system for automatically analysing aircraft systems data is described. The system comprises a data acquisition module operable to acquire aircraft systems data, a data archiving module operable to store aircraft systems data and a data analysis module operable to analyse the aircraft systems data to identify non-predetermined troubleshooting procedures for fault rectification. Automated identification of improved maintenance techniques can thus be provided, with the added benefit that maintenance manuals and procedures may thereby be automatically adapted over time. A related method is also described.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2012Publication date: June 27, 2013Inventor: Jonathan Mark Dunsdon
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Patent number: 8467928Abstract: The illustrative embodiments provide a method for processing sensor data and controlling the movement of a vehicle. In one illustrative embodiment, a vehicle having a plurality of sensors attempts to receive sensor data. In response to an inability of the vehicle to obtain needed sensor data, collected sensor data is requested from a plurality of other vehicles to form alternate sensor data. The alternate sensor data is received and the vehicle is controlled using the alternate sensor data. In another illustrative embodiment, a request is received at a first vehicle for sensor data from a different vehicle. Sensor data is collected from a plurality of sensors at the first vehicle. The sensor data is then sent to the different vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: May 4, 2012Date of Patent: June 18, 2013Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventor: Noel Wayne Anderson
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Patent number: 8463469Abstract: Systems are provided for efficiently managing the effects of a change to a transportation system's state. One example system comprises a plurality of distributed data input and data output terminals, the distributed data input terminal configured to automatically generate data related to a first aspect of transportation system operation, at least one of a distributed database and a synchronized database configured to store data, a plurality of distributed computational engines configured to receive data from at least one database, and based on the data received, automatically manage operations of a second, different aspect of the transportation system operations, and a communications network linking the data input terminals, the data output terminals, the databases, and the computational engines, wherein the change to the transportation system's state is initiated by the data generated at the distributed input terminals.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2008Date of Patent: June 11, 2013Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Wolfgang Daum, Ajith Kuttannair Kumar, Gerald Rose, Glenn Shaffer, Tom Otsubo, Gerald Hess, Jr., John E. Hershey
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Patent number: 8437903Abstract: An onboard system for determining vehicle emissions. The emissions are determined in real-time and may be transmitted to a remote terminal for storage and/or analysis. Data is supplied solely to an emissions unit from a vehicle diagnostic system; the vehicle diagnostic system receives vehicle data from vehicle systems and sub-systems.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2005Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: Lysanda LimitedInventor: Alexander Willard
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Patent number: 8437901Abstract: The illustrative embodiments provide a method and apparatus for controlling and coordinating multiple vehicles. In one illustrative embodiment, machine behaviors are assigned to multiple vehicles performing a task. The vehicles are coordinated to perform the task using the assigned behaviors and a number of signals received from other vehicles and the environment during performance of the task. In another illustrative embodiment, a role is identified for each vehicle in a group of vehicles. A number of machine behaviors are assigned to each vehicle depending upon the identified role for the vehicle. The machine behaviors are selected from coordinating machine behaviors stored in a behavior library. Each vehicle is then coordinated to perform the task according to the role and machine behaviors assigned.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2008Date of Patent: May 7, 2013Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventor: Noel Wayne Anderson
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Patent number: 8433471Abstract: A pre-filling vehicle data check method and system are disclosed herein. One example of the method includes receiving, at a financial institution, an authorization request from a filling station for initiating a filling event, where the authorization request includes a financial code. Via a computing device at the financial institution, the financial code is recognized as being associated with at least one of a vehicle identification number or a station identification associated with a vehicle, thereby identifying the vehicle. At least one parameter of the vehicle is identified via a computing device at a data center in selective communication with the vehicle and the financial institution, and an authorization or denial of the at least one filling event based at least upon the at least one parameter is transmitted from the computing device at the data center.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 2010Date of Patent: April 30, 2013Assignee: General Motors LLCInventors: Jeffrey P. Christensen, Michael D. Solomon, Carl J. Hering, Ryan M. Edwards
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Patent number: 8417410Abstract: A power management system includes a data fusion unit configured to receive first health indicators from an engine diagnostics module and second health indicators from a power assurance module. The data fusion unit is configured to data fuse the first and second health indicators. A power assessment and decision support unit is coupled to the data fusion unit and configured to generate power available based on the fused first and second health indicators. A system diagnostic reasoner unit is coupled to the data fusion unit, and configured to provide a system level fault diagnosis based on the fused first and second health indicators. A graphical user interface is coupled to the power assessment and decision support unit and the system diagnostic reasoned unit. The graphical user interface is configured to display the system level fault diagnosis and the power available.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2008Date of Patent: April 9, 2013Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.Inventors: Kevin Moeckly, Jan Goericke, Andy Stramiello, Richard Ling
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Publication number: 20130079970Abstract: A method and system for collecting, analyzing and displaying fleet performance data are described. An embodiment of the system and method includes receiving a plurality of data streams comprising disparate data, storing, in real-time, the disparate data in a first database, organizing the disparate data stored in the first database into an organized structure in a second database, the data in the second database organized according to a predefined parameter, exposing the organized data in the second database as a subset of data stored in a third database, querying the subset of data in the third database according to a script, the script configured to associate the subset of data according to the predefined parameter, and providing the associated subset of data in the third database to an analysis engine configured to display the associated subset of data from a perspective defined by the predefined parameter.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 20, 2012Publication date: March 28, 2013Inventors: Sudarshan Raghunathan, Chung Hung Lee, Jeffrey McQuigg
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Publication number: 20130076101Abstract: The present invention relates to a work train, a device and a method for distance measurement between a transport device and a milling device. During the loading of a transport device with milled material from the milling device, the operator of the milling device normally transmits control commands to the transport device driver for coordination of the loading process. Through the automated distance measuring between the transport device and the milling device and control of a display device according to the present invention, this task is taken over from the operator of the milling device, who can concentrate on the actual milling process.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2012Publication date: March 28, 2013Applicant: BOMAG GMBHInventor: BOMAG GMBH
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Publication number: 20130073139Abstract: Various embodiments of methods and system are provided for enhancing engine operation through data-sharing among vehicles. In one embodiment, a method includes determining whether a first value of an operating parameter indicative of an ambient environmental condition produced by a first vehicle is corrupted or unavailable, receiving a second value of the operating parameter that is indicative of the ambient environmental condition produced by a second vehicle that is proximate to the first vehicle, and in response to determining that the first value is corrupted or unavailable, controlling operation of an engine of the first vehicle based on the second value of the operating parameter.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 21, 2011Publication date: March 21, 2013Inventors: Luke HENRY, Patricia Lacy
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Patent number: 8401718Abstract: Repair or replacement of a transparency mounted in body of a vehicle, e.g. an aircraft when one or more properties of the transparency is (are) operating outside of an acceptable limit(s) is arranged by monitoring operating performance of a property of the transparency, e.g. by mounted a sensor, e.g. a sensor for detecting moisture; a sensor for detecting impacts and vibrations; a sensor for detecting fractures; a sensor for detecting electric arcing, and a sensor for measuring temperature of an electrically conductive coating, on the transparency. Scheduling repair or replacement of the transparency at a geographical area when the operating performance of the property is outside an acceptable operating performance limit, and forwarding the schedule to the vehicle and to a maintenance location to prepare for the repair or replacement of the transparency at the geographical work area.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2012Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: PPG Industries Ohio, Inc.Inventors: Ali N. Rashid, Monroe A. Stone, James F. Priddy
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Patent number: 8401729Abstract: A device according to the present invention comprises: a central unit (8) having access to a database (18) in which there are stored not only information on the aircraft fleet to be managed but also an aircraft repair manual, this central unit (8) having means of communicating with the outside, and in particular with a technical center (16) of at least one aircraft manufacturer, at least one portable device equipped with visual display means as well as with means of wireless communication between the said portable device and the central unit (8). Application to the analysis of damage observed in an aircraft during inspection thereof.Type: GrantFiled: July 5, 2006Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Airbus Operations SASInventor: François Rouyre
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Patent number: 8401731Abstract: A workshop system, with a plurality of diagnostic and/or programming devices, which are networked by means of data links and are intended for vehicles is provided. In order to enhance the reliability of workshop systems of the prior art, a warning indicating the occurrence of an event, which requires that a workshop employee intervene at a moment's notice at a first diagnostic and/or programming device of the networked devices is forwarded, as an alternative or in addition, to a second or an additional diagnostic and/or programming device to be communicated to the workshop employee.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2009Date of Patent: March 19, 2013Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Marc Torlo, Stefan Mueller
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Publication number: 20130066513Abstract: In a process for monitoring motor vehicles of a motor vehicle fleet which is operated by a fleet operator, by way of a sensor system in the respective vehicle of at least a part of the vehicle fleet, vehicle-related data of the vehicle are determined. The vehicle-related data includes at least its geographical position. By use of at least a portion of the vehicle-related data, a number of servicing parameters are determined, which describe the service requirement of the respective vehicle. By using a data network, by way of which the respective vehicle and a user interface assigned to the fleet operator communicate, the number of servicing parameters and the geographical position of the respective vehicle are output by way of the user interface.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 6, 2012Publication date: March 14, 2013Applicant: Bayerische Motoren Werke AktiengesellschaftInventors: Frank Schnelle, Janus Cogiel, Bernhard Staudacher