U.S. patent application number 10/705065 was filed with the patent office on 2004-08-19 for system and method for matching users based on proximity and/or user-defined profiles.
Invention is credited to Himmelstein, Richard B..
Application Number | 20040162064 10/705065 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 29406294 |
Filed Date | 2004-08-19 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040162064 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Himmelstein, Richard B. |
August 19, 2004 |
System and method for matching users based on proximity and/or
user-defined profiles
Abstract
A system for matching users in a wireless communication system
based on proximity of the users and user-defined profiles includes
at least two mobile units. The mobile units include a requesting
unit and at least one target unit, and each mobile unit is capable
of operating as both a requesting unit and a target unit. The
system also includes profile means for storing a user profile on
each of the mobile units and search means for searching for at
least one target user by a requesting user. The search means
compares the user profiles of each target user with the user
profile of the requesting user. The search means can also indicate
a match when a target unit is within a predetermined distance of
the requesting unit.
Inventors: |
Himmelstein, Richard B.;
(Kure Beach, NC) |
Correspondence
Address: |
VOLPE AND KOENIG, P.C.
UNITED PLAZA, SUITE 1600
30 SOUTH 17TH STREET
PHILADELPHIA
PA
19103
US
|
Family ID: |
29406294 |
Appl. No.: |
10/705065 |
Filed: |
November 10, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10705065 |
Nov 10, 2003 |
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09659074 |
Sep 11, 2000 |
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6647270 |
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60153424 |
Sep 10, 1999 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
455/422.1 ;
455/432.3; 455/434 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 20/40 20130101;
H04W 4/80 20180201; G07C 5/008 20130101; H04M 1/72412 20210101;
H04W 4/027 20130101; G06Q 40/00 20130101; H04W 4/12 20130101; H04W
4/46 20180201; H04W 88/06 20130101; H04W 84/18 20130101; H04W 4/40
20180201; H04W 4/029 20180201; G06Q 30/0265 20130101; H04B 1/3805
20130101; G06Q 10/10 20130101; H04W 4/24 20130101; H04W 4/024
20180201; G07B 15/063 20130101; G06Q 30/0267 20130101; H04W 4/02
20130101; H04W 12/08 20130101; H04W 12/03 20210101; H04W 4/90
20180201 |
Class at
Publication: |
455/422.1 ;
455/432.3; 455/434 |
International
Class: |
H04Q 007/20 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A system for matching users in a wireless communication system
based on user-defined profiles, comprising: at least two mobile
units, including a requesting unit and at least one target unit;
profile means for storing a user profile; and search means for
searching for at least one target user by a requesting user, said
search means comparing the user profiles of at least one target
user with the user profile of the requesting user.
2. The system according to claim 1, further comprising notifying
means for notifying the users when the user profile of said
requesting unit matches the user profile of said at least one
target unit.
3. The system according to claim 1, further comprising exchange
means for exchanging information contained in the user profiles
between said requesting unit and said at least one target unit.
4. The system according to claim 1, further comprising initiating
means for initiating a communication between said requesting unit
and said at least one target unit.
5. The system according to claim 1, wherein each mobile unit
functions as a requesting unit and a target unit.
6. The system according to claim 1, wherein said profile means
includes entering means for entering profile information, including
temporary profile information.
7. The system according to claim 1, wherein said profile means
includes storing the user profile on a mobile unit.
8. The system according to claim 1, wherein said profile means
includes storing the user profile on the wireless communication
system.
9. The system according to claim 1, wherein said search means
includes comparing the user profiles of said target units that are
located within a predetermined distance of said requesting
unit.
10. A method for matching users in a wireless communication system
based on user-defined profiles, comprising the steps of: providing
each user with a mobile unit, including a requesting unit and at
least one target unit; storing a user profile; comparing the user
profile of each target unit with the user profile of the requesting
unit; notifying the users when the user profile of the requesting
unit matches the user profile of at least one target unit; and
initiating a communication between the requesting unit and each of
the matching target units.
11. The method according to claim 10, wherein said providing step
includes each mobile unit functioning as a requesting unit and a
target unit.
12. The method according to claim 10, wherein said storing step
includes storing temporary profile information.
13. The method according to claim 10, wherein said storing step
includes storing the user profile on a mobile unit.
14. The method according to claim 10, wherein said storing step
includes storing the user profile on the wireless communication
system.
15. The method according to claim 10, wherein said comparing step
includes matching a predetermined number of items in the user
profile of each target unit with the user profile of the requesting
unit.
16. The method according to claim 10, wherein said notifying step
includes providing a visual indicator to the requesting unit and
each matching target unit.
17. The method according to claim 10, wherein said notifying step
includes providing an audio indicator to the requesting unit and
each matching target unit.
18. The method according to claim 10, further comprising the step
of: detecting at least one target unit when within a predetermined
distance of the requesting unit.
19. The method according to claim 18, wherein said detecting step
is performed by a global positioning system device contained in
each mobile unit.
20. A mobile unit for matching users in a wireless communication
system based on user-defined profiles, comprising: profile means
for storing a user profile; and search means for searching for at
least one target user by a requesting user, said search means
comparing the user profiles of at least one target user with the
user profile of the requesting user.
21. The mobile unit according to claim 20, further comprising
notifying means for notifying the users when the user profile of
the requesting user matches the user profile of at least one target
user.
22. The mobile unit according to claim 20, wherein said mobile unit
functions as a requesting unit and a target unit.
23. The mobile unit according to claim 20, further comprising
exchange means for exchanging information contained in the user
profiles between the requesting user and at least one target
user.
24. The mobile unit according to claim 20, further comprising
initiating means for initiating a communication between the
requesting user and at least one target user.
25. The mobile unit according to claim 20, wherein said profile
means includes entering means for entering profile information,
including temporary profile information.
26. The mobile unit according to claim 20, wherein said profile
means includes storing the user profile on a mobile unit.
27. The mobile unit according to claim 20, wherein said profile
means includes storing the user profile on the wireless
communication system.
28. The mobile unit according to claim 20, wherein said search
means includes comparing the user profiles of the target users that
are located within a predetermined distance of the requesting
user.
29. The mobile unit according to claim 20, wherein said mobile unit
is a motor vehicle.
30. The mobile unit according to claim 20, wherein said mobile unit
is a cellular telephone.
31. The mobile unit according to claim 20, wherein said mobile unit
is a personal digital assistant.
32. The mobile unit according to claim 20, wherein said mobile unit
is a wireless communication device.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION(S)
[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 09/659,074, filed Sep. 11, 2000, issued as
U.S. Pat. No. 6,647,270 on Nov. 11, 2003, which in turn claims
priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/153,424, filed
Sep. 10, 1999, which are incorporated by reference as if fully set
forth herein.
BACKGROUND
[0002] The present invention generally relates to communication
systems. More particularly, the invention relates to a mobile
communication system which allows mobile vehicles to communicate
with neighboring vehicles and roadside communication networks.
[0003] Various communication systems have been used by automobile
drivers to communicate with other vehicles while the vehicle is in
motion. While many advances have been made in vehicle to vehicle
communication, numerous disadvantages still remain in using
conventional communication systems.
[0004] Conventional mobile communication systems include cellular
telephones and CB or two-way radio. When using a cell phone as a
means of mobile communication, there is no practical way of
discovering whether a neighboring vehicle operator possesses a cell
phone. Additionally, there is no process for determining the phone
number of the targeted cell phone. Accordingly, the cell phone as a
communication medium is severely limited.
[0005] CB radio is a widely broadcast public medium where mobile
users may talk to other mobile or stationary users in their
vicinity. However, since there is no ability to prevent others from
listening, there is no privacy between mobile communicators.
[0006] Automobile accidents are one of the greatest causes of
serious injury and fatalities in society. Accordingly, the
development of improved control and warning systems to minimize
personal and financial losses resulting from automobile accidents
is of utmost importance. The limitations of present forms of
communication are even more severe when considering the extent to
which a communication link can improve both the driving experience
and the safety statistics of modern vehicles.
SUMMARY
[0007] The present invention provides a communication link among
vehicles which eliminates these pitfalls. The system comprises a
broadband RF transceiver with antenna, a position determining means
(such as a GPS receiver), an audio-visual interface, an
electro-mechanical interface, and a microprocessor with associated
memory. These components are incorporated into a mobile unit
located within each vehicle.
[0008] The GPS receiver receives signals from GPS satellites and
calculates the position of the vehicle. The microprocessor carries
out overall control of the system. The memory includes
identification information that is unique to each vehicle. In
response to input from the GPS receiver, information received by
the transceiver and instructions input by the vehicle operator via
the audio-visual interface, the microprocessor determines the
necessary subsequent actions.
[0009] The transmission from a vehicle may include information
describing the status of the vehicle for use by the receiving
vehicle. For example, the transmission may provide information
regarding the speed, direction, and position of the transmitting
vehicle. This information is received and processed by the
receiving vehicle to provide a visual or audible display of the
position, direction, and speed of the transmitting vehicle.
[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is
provided a communication system for transmitting information
between a mobile unit within a vehicle traveling on a road and a
fixed communication network installed on a roadside. The fixed
communication network includes a base station having a transceiver
for communicating with the vehicle by transmitting and receiving a
plurality of communication packets. This communication can include
payment instructions, security instructions, and/or access codes
which can be transmitted with or without intervention by the
vehicle operator.
[0011] A system for matching users in a wireless communication
system based on proximity of the users and/or user-defined profiles
includes at least two mobile units. The mobile units include a
requesting unit and at least one target unit, and each mobile unit
is capable of operating as both a requesting unit and a target
unit. The system also includes profile means for storing a user
profile on each of the mobile units and search means for searching
for at least one target user by a requesting user. The user profile
can also be stored in the system; it need not be stored in the
mobile unit. The search means compares the user profiles of each
target user with the user profile of the requesting user. The
search means can also indicate a match when a target unit is within
a predetermined distance of the requesting unit.
[0012] A method for matching users in a wireless communication
system based on proximity of the users and user-defined profiles
begins by providing each user with a mobile unit, including a
requesting unit and at least one target unit. Each mobile unit is
capable of operating as both a requesting unit and a target unit,
and a user profile is stored in each mobile unit. The user profile
can also be stored in the system; it need not be stored in the
mobile unit. The user profile of each detected target unit is
compared with the user profile of the requesting unit. The users
are notified when the user profile of the requesting unit matches
the user profile of at least one target unit. Lastly, a
communication is initiated between the requesting unit and each of
the matching target units. The method can also detect target units
when they are within a predetermined distance of the requesting
unit.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0013] FIG. 1 shows a vehicle communication system embodying the
present invention.
[0014] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a mobile unit in
accordance with the preferred embodiment.
[0015] FIG. 3A is a diagram illustrating the contents of a
communication packet transmitted by the mobile unit shown in FIG.
2.
[0016] FIG. 3B illustrates the header of the communication
packet.
[0017] FIG. 3C illustrates the information fields of the header's
transmission administration.
[0018] FIG. 3D illustrates the information fields of the header's
sender portion.
[0019] FIG. 3E illustrates the information fields of the header's
receiver portion.
[0020] FIG. 3F illustrates the sub fields contained in the
identification number field.
[0021] FIG. 4A illustrates the memory of a typical mobile unit
shown in FIG. 2.
[0022] FIG. 4B is a diagram of a vehicle communication log.
[0023] FIG. 4C is a diagram of a vehicle user log.
[0024] FIG. 4D is a diagram of a vehicle contact log.
[0025] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram of the procedure utilized by the
microprocessor upon receipt of a communication packet.
[0026] FIG. 6 is a flow diagram of the procedure for processing
communication packets.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0027] The preferred embodiment will be described with reference to
the drawing figures where identical numerals represent similar
elements throughout.
[0028] A vehicle communication system embodying the present
invention is shown in FIG. 1. The vehicle communication system 10
generally includes one or more base stations 14, each of which is
in wireless communication with a plurality of remote units 16.
Although the remote units 16 may be fixed or mobile, they will be
referred to hereinafter for simplicity as mobile units 16. Each
mobile unit 16 can communicate with another mobile unit 16, the
closest base station 14, or the base station 14 which provides the
strongest communication signal. The base stations 14 communicate
with a base station controller 20, which coordinates communications
among base stations 14 and mobile units 16. The communication
system 10 may be connected to a public switched telephone network
(PSTN) 22, wherein the base station controller 20 also coordinates
communications between the base stations 14 and the PSTN 22.
Preferably, each base station 14 communicates with the base station
controller 20 over a wireless link, although a land line may also
be provided. A land line is particularly applicable when a base
station 14 is in close proximity to the base station controller 20.
The fixed remote units 16 may also communicate with a base station
14 over a land line.
[0029] The base station controller 20 performs several functions.
Primarily, the base station controller 20 provides all of the
operations, administrative, and maintenance (OA&M) signaling
associated with establishing and maintaining all of the wireless
communications between the mobile units 16, the base stations 14,
and the base station controller 20. The base station controller 20
can provide the routing of all communications between mobile units
16, and between the mobile units 16 and the PSTN 22. The base
station controller 20 also provides an interface between the mobile
units 16 and the PSTN 22. This interface includes multiplexing and
demultiplexing of the communication signals that enter and leave
the system 10 via the base station controller 20. Although the
vehicle communication system 10 is shown employing antennas to
transmit RF signals, one skilled in the art should recognize that
communications may be accomplished via microwave or satellite
uplinks. Additionally, the functions of the base station controller
20 may be combined with a base station 14 to form a "master base
station".
[0030] A preferred embodiment of the mobile unit 16 is shown in
FIG. 2. Each mobile unit includes a radio frequency (RF)
transceiver 32 with an antenna 33 capable of transmitting and
receiving a plurality of RF signals, a global positioning system
(GPS) receiver 35, a microprocessor 40 with associated memory 41,
an interface to the vehicle's electro-mechanical systems 44, and an
audio-visual interface 46.
[0031] The RF transceiver 32 transmits and receives RF signals at a
plurality of RF frequencies to one or more vehicles which include a
mobile unit 16. Received signals are downloaded to baseband and
forwarded to the microprocessor 40 for further processing.
Transmitted signals are forwarded from the microprocessor 40 to the
RF transceiver 32 for upconversion and transmission over one of the
plurality of RF frequencies. The vehicle communication system 10
also provides for the option of transmitting a communication over
currently licensed radio station channels, for example 105.9 FM.
This can permit a mobile unit operator to broadcast to non-mobile
unit operators. It also can provide a "scanning channel", such that
non-mobile unit operators can listen to broadcast
communications.
[0032] The GPS receiver 35 is configured to receive signals from
GPS satellites and compute the position of the mobile unit 16.
There are many commercially available GPS receivers 35 that can
perform such a function. GPS readings which are provided to the
microprocessor 40 permit the microprocessor 40 to accurately
calculate the speed, direction, and acceleration or deceleration
rate of the vehicle.
[0033] The microprocessor 40 provides central control of the mobile
unit 16. As will be explained in greater detail hereinafter, the
microprocessor 40 also performs packet handling, including packet
assembling for outgoing communication packets 50 and packet
disassembling for incoming communication packets 50 received from
the RF transceiver 32. Communication packets 50 received by the
microprocessor 40 are stored in memory 41. The memory 41 is also
used to store identification information that is unique to each
vehicle and/or vehicle operator. For example, license and
registration for each vehicle can be read if positioned with a bar
code or magnetic strip in a specific location of the vehicle.
Optionally, the system may have a card reader where the operator
must place their card prior to the vehicle starting. This card can
be a license with a magnetic strip or a smartcard that identifies
the driver and the vehicle. This unique information regarding the
vehicle may also include the position of the vehicle, speed of the
vehicle, and rate of acceleration or deceleration as calculated by
data obtained from the GPS receiver 35.
[0034] The audio-visual interface (AVI) 46 preferably includes a
microphone, speakers, and graphic display along with alphanumeric
and directional keypads. However, those of skill in the art should
realize that the AVI 46 may encompass other input devices which are
known, such as a voice activated input unit, an infrared remote
control, a full keyboard, or any other type of electronic or manual
data input means. Additionally, the output portion of the AVI 46
may include any type of output means such as a stereo system or a
heads-up display.
[0035] The electro-mechanical interface 44 provides an electrical
coupling to the electro-mechanical systems of the vehicle over
which the mobile unit 16 has control. These systems may include the
radio, lights, horn, windows, locks, steering, breaking, and any
other electro-mechanical systems of the vehicle.
[0036] Communications between mobile units 16 using the vehicle
communication system 10 are accomplished through a stream of
transmitted communication packets 50. As shown in FIG. 3A, each
communication packet 50 includes a header 51 and a payload 53. The
header 51 includes a plurality of predefined information fields
which provide information regarding the particular communication,
the sender which originated the communication, and the receiver to
which the communication is destined. It should be recognized that a
voice or data communication may be segmented or "packetized" and
transmitted using a plurality of packets 50. The present invention
is not restricted to transmitting a communication having a
predefined length. Accordingly, the payload 53 may include only a
portion of the communication that is sent between mobile units 16,
and a single communication may be sent using a plurality of packets
50. Communications may include data transmissions, such as uploads
from or downloads to the mobile unit 16, or may include voice
communications.
[0037] Referring to FIG. 3B, the header 51 includes a plurality of
information fields which can be generally categorized by three
different functional groups: 1) transmission administrative
information 55; 2) sender information 56; and 3) receiver
information 57. These fields will be explained in greater detail
hereinafter.
[0038] Referring to FIG. 3C, the information fields associated with
the transmission administration 55 are shown. These fields provide
information that defines the particular communication being
transmitted. Although the number of fields may vary, the type of
fields described may change depending on the particular
communication and the requirements of the system 10. In one
embodiment of the present invention, the fields associated with
transmission administration 55 include the following fields:
security 61; priority 62; in system/out of system 63;
broadcast/point-to-point 64; communication identifier (data/voice)
65; communication type (information/control) 66; and communication
length (standalone or continuous) 67.
[0039] Since the vehicle communication system 10 in accordance with
the present invention permits control of a vehicle and overall
control of the communication system 10 by law enforcement
authorities via a "security instruction", the system 10 has a
plurality of security levels to ensure that unauthorized
individuals will not use the system 10 for subversive purposes.
Optionally, driver may override law enforcement. The system 10 may
ask for permission for law enforcement to control vehicle. The
security field 61 is defined as follows:
[0040] 0-Access to all functions of the vehicle communication
system 10, including the physical control of the vehicle and all of
the information stored within the memory 41.
[0041] 1-Access only to the physical control of the vehicle.
[0042] 2-Access only to the information stored within the memory
41.
[0043] 3-Access for transmitting and receiving communications.
[0044] 4-Access only to receiving communications.
[0045] The security field 61 may also include a security code,
which permits authentication of the entity sending the security
instruction. As aforementioned, it should be understood by those
skilled in the art that additional fields may be added or defined
as desired to increase the functionality of the system 10 or the
security layers. Additionally, it should be recognized that
although the system 10 is capable of a broad range of
functionality, there are legal implications to implementing all of
the functionality. For example, a court order would most likely be
necessary before permitting law enforcement officials access to
information in, or control of, the mobile unit 16.
[0046] The priority field 62 is an indicator of the urgency of the
transmitted communication. The priority field 62 can be a numeric
priority from one to ten; with urgent communications having the
highest priority of one (e.g., communications from law enforcement
officials) and non-urgent communications having the lowest priority
of ten (e.g., advertisements).
[0047] The in system/out of system field 63 indicates whether the
communication is destined for, or originated from, another mobile
unit 16 or an entity located outside of the vehicle communication
system 10. Communications with entities outside the vehicle
communication system 10 can be routed between the mobile unit 16
and the outside entity over the PSTN 22.
[0048] The broadcast/point-to-point field 64 identifies whether the
message is intended for broadcast to all mobile units 16 or whether
it is intended to be routed to a particular mobile unit 16. As will
be explained in detail hereinafter, the receiver field 57 will
specify the particular address, or multiple addresses, of the
mobile units 16 to which the communication will be transmitted.
[0049] The communication identifier field 65 identifies whether the
communication is a voice or data transmission since each
transmission may be encoded and processed differently by the
receiving microprocessor 40.
[0050] The communication type field 66 identifies whether the
communication comprises information for output to the user via the
AVI 46, or whether the information is a control instruction that
will permit electro-mechanical control of the vehicle.
[0051] The communication length field 67 indicates whether the
entire communication is included within the current packet 50, or
whether the packet 50 is part of a multi-packet communication.
[0052] Referring to FIG. 3D, the fields associated with the sender
portion 56 of the header 51 include identification number 71,
position 72, speed 73, acceleration or deceleration 74, direction
75, origination 76, and destination 77, and may include additional
optional fields 78 as specified by the vehicle operator.
[0053] The identification number 71 provides a unique
identification for the sending mobile unit 16. The identification
number may be the vehicle license number with two additional
letters representing the state where the license plate was issued,
such as PA for Pennsylvania. Depending upon system administration,
the identification number 71 may further relate to one or more
individual operators of the vehicle. As shown in FIG. 3F, the
identification number field 71 may include a plurality of subfields
including vehicle code 81, number of authorized vehicle operators
82, and a vehicle operator identification number 83 .sub.a, b . . .
n for each operator. This feature is particularly useful if the
vehicle is part of a commercial fleet of vehicles with multiple
drivers. Upon turning on the vehicle, the vehicle operator inputs
their identification number 71. This number 71 is compared to the
list of authorized operators previously stored in memory 41. If the
input operator identification number 71 matches favorably with one
of the authorized operators previously stored in memory 41,
operation of the vehicle is permitted; if not, operation is denied.
Optionally, license plate, registration, insurance information, and
driver's license information can be additional fields stored with
the identification number 71.
[0054] Use of a vehicle operator identification number 71, such as
a driver's license, also permits different operators to use the
vehicle while retaining their distinct identity and storing
information particular to that vehicle operator, similar to a
screen name for Internet use such as the America Online (AOL)
system.
[0055] Referring back to FIG. 3D, the next four fields associated
with the sender portion 56 of the header 51 include position 72,
speed 73, acceleration or deceleration 74, and direction 75, which
are automatically created from the information obtained from the
sender's GPS receiver 35.
[0056] The origination field 76 includes the location of the
vehicle when the vehicle was turned on. The destination field 77
includes the destination of the vehicle. This, of course, requires
that the destination be input into the mobile unit 16, such as when
a destination is input into a navigation system. It should be
understood that the mobile unit operator may override certain
fields to ensure that this information is not obtained by other
mobile unit operators. For example, the origination 76 and
destination fields 77, which may include personal information that
the mobile unit operator does not desire other mobile unit
operators to have access to, may include null data such that the
sender's destination and origination will be listed as "not
available" to the receiver. The vehicle operator configures their
mobile unit 16 as desired to specify which fields should be
transmitted with null data.
[0057] Referring to FIG. 3E, the fields associated with the
receiver portion 56 of the header 51 are shown in greater detail.
As discussed with reference to FIG. 3C, the broadcast or
point-to-point field 64 indicates whether the communication is
destined for one, multiple, or all operators. If the communication
is to be broadcast to all mobile unit operators, the number of
addressees field 79 is designated as zero, indicating that all
operators will receive the communication. For point-to-point or
point-to-multipoint communications, (whereby a plurality of
operators may be included within a conversation or communication),
the number of addressees field 79 includes the number of operators
which will be receiving the communication. For example, if a
point-to-point communication is desired, the number of addressees
field 79 will include the number one (1) and address field number
one 80.sub.a will be the only field which includes an address. If a
point-to-multipoint communication is desired between, for example
four additional mobile unit operators, the number of addresses
field 79 will include the number four (4) and address fields one
through four 80.sub.a-d will include the addresses of the four
receivers to be sent the communication.
[0058] Once all of the aforementioned fields have been populated
with the information, the microprocessor 40 builds each
communication packet 50 and forwards the packet 50 to the
transceiver 32 for transmission. The packets 50 are preferably
transmitted to the base station 14, and then forwarded to the base
station controller 20. The base station controller 20 routes all of
the communication packets 50 to the specified addresses, either to
one or more mobile unit operators, one or more outside entities, or
both. This routing function is the same as an Internet router,
whereby the destination address or addresses are read by the router
and the communication packet 50 is forwarded to those addresses. If
the communication packet 50 is to be forwarded to multiple
addresses or broadcast to all addresses, the base station
controller 20 provides such a routing function.
[0059] The base station controller 20 may also confirm to sender
whether or not a signal has been received by the recipient. In an
alternative embodiment, each communication may require a
confirmation packet be sent from the recipient to the sender to
provide the confirmation. Using such an embodiment, the sending
mobile unit operator will know whether or not the communication
packet 50 has reached its destination.
[0060] Although the present invention has been explained with
reference to a plurality of base stations 14 and a base station
controller 20, the system 10 can also use technology similar to
Bluetooth wireless technology. Using technology such as Bluetooth
allows mobile units and base stations to communicate through other
mobile units and base units (i.e., repeaters). This permits a
wireless interconnect between mobile devices, and between mobile
devices and their peripherals. The mobile devices can form a secure
piconet and communicate among the connected devices. Accordingly,
using this technology, mobile units 16 can talk directly to other
mobile units 16 without the intervention of the base stations 14
and the base station controller 20.
[0061] It is intended that the present invention be used with any
type of wireless communication standard including Bluetooth or
other wireless or data transmission standard. The particular
standard used in transmitting the data is not critical since there
are many types of wireless technologies and standards that can be
used to transfer information between mobile units 16. It should be
recognized that any of the communications could be encrypted by
currently known technologies so that only certain authorized mobile
units can communicate with each other. For example, if two users
were communicating with one another and either requested a private
conversation, the system can immediately encrypt their
communication.
[0062] As should be understood by those of skill in the art, if the
address of the receiver is outside of the system 10 and must be
routed via the PSTN 22, the base station controller 20 formats the
communication packet 50 in a format that may be handled by the PSTN
22. Although the present invention has been explained using a
general packet 50 "structure" as illustrated by FIGS. 3A-3F, this
structure is intended to serve as an example of the information to
be transmitted by the system 10 in each communication. It is not
the intention herein to specify a new communication standard, since
the present invention may be utilized with any current or future
wireless communication standard. For example, the packets 50
transmitted over the vehicle communication system 10 may use the
Internet protocol (IP) format, such that they may be transmitted
seamlessly to any communication system which uses the IP format.
The discussion of the particular format and/or conversion to
another format for forwarding over the PSTN 22 is outside the scope
of the present invention.
[0063] As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the memory 41 is used to store
information which populates the aforementioned fields. As will be
described in greater detail hereinafter with reference to FIG. 4C,
the memory 41 is also used to store other detailed information
which may be helpful to the mobile unit operator, other mobile unit
operators, the base station controller 20, or law enforcement
agencies. The information stored in memory 41 may originate from a
received communication, or may be input into the mobile unit via
the AVI 46. For example, information that is specific to a
particular operator, such as those fields illustrated in FIG. 4C,
may be input by the mobile unit operator via the AVI 46.
[0064] Referring to FIG. 4A, one of the uses of the memory 41 is to
automatically store a current vehicle activity log 90 and
previously entered logs. The vehicle activity log 90 includes a
plurality of fields including the time 90.sub.a, date 90.sub.b,
position 90.sub.c, speed 90.sub.d, acceleration/deceleration
90.sub.e, and direction 90.sub.f of the vehicle. This log 90 is
updated on a periodic basis as determined by the mobile unit
operator or can be automatically updated by the system. For
example, private individuals may desire the log 90 to be updated
every 15 minutes whereas commercial businesses may require the log
90 to be updated every 15 seconds or even less. It should be
realized that the vehicle activity log 90, if updated on the order
of fractions of a second, would be useful during accident
reconstruction.
[0065] Referring to FIG. 4B, a vehicle communication log 92 is
shown. The communication log 92 includes the following fields: the
time of the communication 92.sub.a; the date of the communication
92.sub.b; an indication of whether the communication was incoming
or outgoing 92.sub.c; the address(es) of the communicating entity
92.sub.d; the priority of the communication 92.sub.e; an indication
of whether the communication is broadcast or point-to-point
92.sub.f; an indication of whether the communicating entity is
within the system or outside the system 92.sub.g; the security
level of the communicating entity 92.sub.h; an indication of
whether the communication is data or voice 92.sub.i; an indication
of whether the communication is information or control 92.sub.j;
and the actual contents of the communication 92.sub.k. The vehicle
communication log 92 continually tracks each ongoing communication
and stores the contents of the communication in the contents field
92.sub.k and all of the related information in the remaining fields
92.sub.a-j.
[0066] Referring to FIG. 4C, a mobile unit operator may input via
the AVI 46 a plurality of fields related to the specific user
and/or vehicle in a user log 105. One example of a user log 105 is
shown in FIG. 4C which includes the following fields: registration
number 105.sub.a; insurance company 105.sub.b; insurance policy
number 105.sub.c; vehicle make 105.sub.d; vehicle model 105.sub.e;
vehicle color 105.sub.f; other identifying information 105.sub.g;
vehicle model year 105.sub.h; EZpass number 105.sub.i; garage
parking account number 105.sub.j; garage door access code
105.sub.k; driving record 105.sub.l; and credit card information
105.sub.m. There is no limit to the number of fields which may be
stored in the user log 105, and all fields can be defined by the
mobile unit operator. Since many of these fields include sensitive
information, the mobile unit operator may decide not to send any
information from the user log 105 and the microprocessor 40, when
constructing the data packets, will place null data in those
fields.
[0067] The procedure utilized by the microprocessor 40 upon receipt
of a communication packet 50 is shown in FIG. 5. The microprocessor
40 first determines whether the incoming packet 50 is addressed to
the specific mobile unit 16. Accordingly, at step 502, the
microprocessor determines whether the incoming packet is a
broadcast, and at step 504, the microprocessor determines whether
the specific address matches the mobile unit address. If either of
these determinations is affirmative, the new packet is stored (step
506). The microprocessor then determines if there are other
communication packets pending for processing (step 508). If no
other packets are pending, the new packet is processed (step 510).
If applicable, any packets in the queue are reprioritized in
accordance with the priority of each packet (step 512) which, in
the case where no other packets are pending, would not be
necessary. The microprocessor then goes on to reviewing the next
packet step (514).
[0068] If it has been determined in step 508 that other packets are
pending, the priority of all of the pending packets are reviewed
(step 516) and a determination is made (step 518) whether the
pending packets have a lower priority than the new packet. If the
new packet has a higher priority then the pending packets, the
microprocessor halts processing of the pending packet currently
being processed (step 520), re-stores the pending packet into
memory (step 522), and proceeds with processing the new packet
(step 510).
[0069] If, however, the pending packets do not have a lower
priority than the new packet, the microprocessor stores the new
packet in a queue with all other pending packets (step 524) and
continues to process the pending packet (step 526). In this manner,
the microprocessor 40 is able to process higher priority packets
first, and delay processing of lower priority packets to a more
appropriate time when the microprocessor has the proper
resources.
[0070] Optionally, even if the microprocessor determines in steps
502 and 504 that the communication is not addressed to the
particular mobile unit 16, either as point-to-point communication
or as part of a broadcast communication, the microprocessor may
still undertake minimal processing of such packets. This is
performed in step 530 whereby a contact log is created.
[0071] As shown in FIG. 4D, the contact log 110 may include a
minimum number of fields such as the time 110.sub.a, date
110.sub.b, address 110.sub.c, color 110.sub.d, make 110.sub.e, and
model 110.sub.f of the vehicle related to the incoming
communication packet 50. The number and type of fields is
determined by the mobile unit operator. The payload of the packet
may not be stored. The contact log 110 is used by the
microprocessor 40 to search for "matches" with other mobile unit
operators. Upon request by the mobile unit operator, the
microprocessor 40 searches the contact log 110 for any addresses
(i.e., sending addresses) that have multiple entries in the log
110. Once the microprocessor 40 searches the contact log 110 and
outputs the addresses which show up on the contact log 110 greater
than a certain frequency threshold as set by the mobile unit
operator, the operator can determine whether those addresses should
be placed in a "commuter" log; which is a list of mobile unit
operators as identified by their addresses.
[0072] This information is provided to the mobile unit operator via
the AVI 46. This permits the operator to identify, either
graphically as located on a real-time map or via a list, other
mobile unit operators which may be in the vicinity during a certain
portion of the day. For example, during a commute to work if other
mobile unit operators are typically within the vicinity of the
present mobile unit operator during a certain time of day, a
"partner log" may be created by each mobile unit operator to permit
mobile unit operators to identify, contact and establish a rapport
with other mobile unit operators.
[0073] Since the communication packet headers 51 include very
detailed information about other mobile units 16, the system 10 can
provide extreme flexibility in contacting other mobile unit
operators in the vicinity. For example, if a mobile unit operator
observes a vehicle that they would like to establish a private
conversation with, the operator may command the mobile unit 16 to
"talk" to the blue car. If more than one mobile unit 16 is in a
blue car in the vicinity, the microprocessor 40 can filter the
commuter log to vehicles having the color blue. If more than one
blue car was in the vicinity, the microprocessor 40 presents the
make and model of each blue car and requests further
instructions.
[0074] Since all of the detailed information is available in the
packet header 51, the system 10 can provide the speed, direction,
and location of the other vehicle in relation to the present
vehicle. This information is also important in order to evaluate
whether another mobile unit 16 will be available for a conversation
having a duration of a minimum length. For example, if a mobile
unit operator notes that one of the mobile unit operators on his
partner log is currently traveling in the vicinity, and the mobile
unit operator would like to establish communications with the other
mobile unit operator, the system 10 can calculate the duration of a
potential conversation based upon the speed and direction of both
vehicles and their ultimate destinations, if available. The system
10 can combine that information and advise both mobile unit
operators by an audible alarm or a voice message that there is a
certain amount of time left in the conversation. The microprocessor
40 can also filter out any mobile units 16 that will not be in the
range long enough to establish a reasonable conversation.
[0075] At step 540, the microprocessor 40 reviews all incoming
communication packets 50 to determine if a particular communication
packet 50 originates from an address that is on the operator's
partner log. As the communication packets 50 are reviewed at step
540, the mobile unit operator is notified and can decide whether or
not they want to establish a communication with the particular
mobile unit operator having the address that has compared favorably
with the partner log. It should be noted that mobile unit operators
can block out transmissions being received from particular
individuals or cancel conversations at anytime. Further, mobile
unit operators can require information such as drivers license,
license plate, and registration to be provided before they allow
any other transmissions to be received.
[0076] Referring to FIG. 6, the procedure for processing
communication packets 50 by the microprocessor 40 is shown. The
microprocessor first parses the packets into separate fields (step
602) and stores all of the fields that do not require additional
processing (step 604). The microprocessor then determines whether a
packet includes a data communication by viewing the communication
identifier field (step 606). If the microprocessor determines that
the packet is not carrying a data communication, then it is a voice
communication and the microprocessor processes the communication as
such (step 608).
[0077] If the packet includes a data communication, the
microprocessor must make a determination whether the data
communication is a control communication (step 610). If it is not a
control communication, the data communication is an information
communication and it is processed as such (step 612). Examples of
packets which include information communications include audio,
video, and text files that are downloaded over the Internet,
facsimile transmissions, and transmissions from peripheral devices
such as laptop computers, handheld devices, and the like.
[0078] If it has been determined that the packet includes a control
communication, the communication is processed as such (step 614).
The microprocessor compares the control instruction to the security
level required (step 616). This includes reviewing the security
field, including the optional security access code. If the security
access code is proper (i.e., authorized), the security level is
reviewed and the microprocessor makes a determination of whether
the security level is sufficient (step 618). If so, the
microprocessor performs the control instruction (step 620). If not,
the microprocessor generates a transmission to the sender of the
control instruction that they are not authorized to control the
particular mobile unit (step 622). The microprocessor 40 also
notifies the particular mobile unit operator that a control attempt
was made and was unsuccessful. This will alert the mobile unit
operator that someone may be utilizing the system for subversive
purposes. Optionally, the system may require the mobile unit
operator to authorize their vehicle to accept a control
instruction, prior to undertaking any control instructions. Once
the processing of the packet is performed, the microprocessor goes
to the next packet (step 624).
[0079] With respect to the step of performing a control instruction
(step 620), this may include instructions for the microprocessor to
exert electromechanical control over certain aspects of the
vehicle's operation, or may simply include a request for the
microprocessor to upload data to the recipient. For example, if the
control instruction is a request for the microprocessor to upload
information, the microprocessor may upload one or a plurality of
the fields shown in FIG. 4C.
[0080] In a first example relating to a request for information, if
the vehicle is entering a toll booth which utilizes the EZpass
system, the control instruction from the transmitting toll booth
may request that the EZpass number be transmitted. The
microprocessor 40 will transmit the number in the EZpass number
field shown in FIG. 4C in response thereto.
[0081] In a second example relating to a request for information, a
request for information may occur in a parking garage, gas station,
or any other establishment which requires payment from the vehicle
operator, such as a drive-in fast-food restaurant. In this example,
the vehicle operator will drive up to an ordering kiosk and order
the desired food. After the food has been ordered, the driver pulls
up to the window whereby the proper food order is presented to the
driver. Meanwhile, the restaurant's communication system sends a
communication requesting the credit card information for billing
purposes. The information shown in the credit card information
field 105.sub.m of FIG. 4C can then be presented to the
communication system of the restaurant for payment. Optionally, the
vehicle operator may require that they must first approve of any
information being released. Moreover, the communication log for
both the fast-food restaurant and the vehicle may store the
communication noting the charge amount. For the vehicle it can be a
"virtual receipt".
[0082] With respect to an instruction which exerts
electromechanical control over the vehicle, as shown in FIG. 2, the
electromechanical interface 44 will interface with those systems of
the vehicle over which the mobile unit 16 has control. These
systems may include the radio, lights, horn, steering, breaking,
and any other electromechanical systems of the vehicle. For
example, if a mobile unit operator is listening to their favorite
radio station and a point-to-point or broadcast communication is
received by the mobile unit 16, the microprocessor 40 through the
electromechanical interface 44 will stop the radio, or turn down
the volume of the radio, so that a conversation can commence.
[0083] It should be understood that due to the amount of
information set forth in the header 51 of each communication packet
50, the system 10 provides flexibility in processing and filtering
communications. For example, the microprocessor 40 can be
programmed to accept only communications from certain makes and
models of vehicles. As such, the system 10 set up as part of a
Mercedes can be programmed by the manufacturer to be able to talk
to only other Mercedes operators.
[0084] The present invention has the ability to increase safety to
drivers and can be a valuable resource for emergency services
personnel and a law enforcement personnel. For example, emergency
vehicles can automatically send signals to warn motorists that an
emergency vehicle is approaching. This may supplement the emergency
light and siren which are standard on emergency vehicles. Since the
packets 50 are prioritized, a communication sent from an emergency
vehicle in transit may have the highest priority and can override
all other signals having a lower priority. At the scene of an
accident, the signal output from an emergency vehicle may, at a
slightly lower priority, transmit instructions for avoiding the
accident scene and may provide detour instructions.
[0085] With respect to motor vehicle code enforcement, law
enforcement agencies can automatically review the status of a
driver, vehicle registration, and insurance and may provide
warnings for expired or soon to be expired license, registrations,
or insurance policies.
[0086] If an authorized operator has gained access to the vehicle
and has not input the proper operator identification number, the
microprocessor 40 can transmit an emergency instruction to alert
law enforcement agencies that the vehicle has been stolen. The
signal sent from the vehicle can automatically include the
vehicle's position, speed, acceleration or deceleration rate, and
direction. Law enforcement officials may send an instruction in
response to limit the vehicle speed to no greater than 30 miles per
hour until the unauthorized operator of the vehicle is apprehended.
It should be noted that various fixed units may be strategically
placed along highways, major intersections, toll booths, and
bridges to monitor traffic and to relay messages back to law
enforcement agencies.
[0087] Another law enforcement use can be to limit speeding of
vehicles by notifying law enforcement agencies when a vehicle has
exceeded a certain speed limit, e.g., 20% over the speed limit. A
law enforcement official, in response, may send an instruction for
the vehicle to slow down or risk a traffic citation. This can
eliminate the need for "speed traps" and high speed police
chases.
[0088] For public safety applications, specifically located fixed
units can warn drivers as the vehicle approaches a traffic light at
an intersection that the vehicle must slow down or stop because it
will not "make" the green light. The traffic light can make this
determination based upon the speed and direction of the mobile unit
and the cycle of the traffic light. Other selectively placed fixed
units can warn drivers that an intersection or roadway is dangerous
for various reasons, such as an accident, a sharp bend, or heavy
traffic. The signals output by these locations can be periodically
updated as weather and traffic conditions change. In the same
manner, vehicles may be warned that a particular vehicle is driving
in an erratic manner or that law enforcement officials are
currently involved in a pursuit of the vehicle. The warnings to
drivers are output through the AVI 46 and may include an audible
warning, or may include a status light such as red, yellow, and
green being located on the graphical operator interface of the AVI
46. In extreme circumstances, selectively placed fixed units may
automatically overtake control of a vehicle, for example, during
extremely icy conditions to slow the vehicle prior to the danger
zone.
[0089] It should be noted that although the mobile units 16 were
described hereinbefore as being located in a vehicle or in a fixed
location, they can be incorporated as part of a cellular phone or
other portable communication device.
[0090] When the mobile unit 16 is incorporated into a portable
communication device to be used outside a vehicle, the
electro-mechanical interface 44 can be eliminated.
[0091] Non-vehicle related information can be entered into the user
log 105. This information can include personal information such as
the user's name, age, sex, occupation, hobbies, interests, and
picture and is used to create a user profile. The user profile can
be expanded to include any additional personal information desired
by the user; the foregoing list is meant to be exemplary and not
limiting.
[0092] The user profile is utilized to search for other users
having a predefined set of characteristics, similar to a
matchmaking process. In one embodiment of the present invention,
the search can be initiated based upon the physical proximity of
one user to another (a requesting user and one or more target
users). It is noted that a single mobile unit can be both a
requesting unit and a target unit at the same time. When two or
more mobile units are within a predetermined distance (which is set
by the requesting user), the requesting user's mobile unit polls
the other mobile units in the area to determine if there is a
match. The match based upon distance can also be set to locate
target units that are beyond a predetermined distance.
[0093] If a match exists, both the requesting user and the target
user are notified via their respective mobile units and can then
begin a conversation. It is noted that a "conversation" is not
limited to a voice communication, and can include text messages and
the like. The amount of information initially exchanged between the
mobile units can be set by each user. For example, only limited
information can be sent during the initial exchange, and the users
can then disclose additional information as the conversation
between the users progresses. The users can designate groups of
information items to facilitate disclosure during a conversation.
For example, an initial exchange could include a first group of
information, such as the user's name, age, and sex. Subsequent
exchanges could include additional groups of information, such as
contact information (telephone number, e-mail address, and home
address).
[0094] Additional criteria for a match to occur can also be set.
For example, a requesting user can require that a target user
disclose a minimum amount of information to be considered for a
match. If that minimum amount of information is not disclosed, then
no match will occur even if it otherwise would. The same criteria
can be used in reverse; a target user can select to not match with
a requesting user if the requesting user does not disclose a
minimum amount of information.
[0095] In addition to the more "permanent" type of information
entered into a user's profile, temporary items can also be entered,
such as "having a bad day, looking for sympathy", "let's dance the
night away", etc.
[0096] Another example of a use of the system of the present
invention is in connection with yard sales. A user having a yard
sale can provide categories of items for sale. The categories can
be selected from predefined categories stored on the mobile unit or
can be created by the user. A potential purchaser can designate
certain categories in their user profile, and when within a certain
distance of a yard sale containing a designated category of items,
the purchaser can receive information regarding the yard sale and
be directed to the yard sale. Optionally, if the mobile unit is
interfaced to a navigation system, the mobile unit can display the
location of the yard sale and the user can be provided with
directions to the yard sale.
[0097] The present invention is particularly adaptable for
interfacing with the Internet and providing a wealth of information
for all mobile unit operators. In one Internet-related embodiment
such as vehicletalk.com, the Web site permits storage of
information and system administration through the Internet. A
system administrator operating at the Web site or the base station
controller 20 monitors and tracks all mobile units 16. Through the
system administrator, the fixed locations are provided with weather
and traffic updates or advertisements which are specifically geared
to the immediate vicinity of the fixed unit. In this manner,
advertisers advertise both on the vehicletalk.com Web site and
advertise their companies and products as vehicles approach or pass
certain properties, stores, or business locations. This also
permits stores, to provide information to vehicles arriving or
leaving the place of business, such as directions for parking or
thanking them for their patronage.
[0098] The system administrator also provides centralized
housekeeping functions in order to track all different types of
information that are typically a nuisance to vehicle operators,
such as the date their registration and insurance policy expire.
The system administrator also tracks general vehicle maintenance
information and traffic violation records. The tracking of vehicle
maintenance can be particularly useful when a recall notification
is issued from a manufacturer or even when regularly scheduled
maintenance is required.
[0099] In a second Internet-related embodiment, the system 10 is
used to aid law enforcement officials and insurance companies to
determine when a traffic accident has occurred and to collect all
of the detailed information regarding the traffic accident. This
function is centralized in a Web site such as vehicleaccident.com.
When an accident occurs, a signal is automatically sent to all
vehicles involved (or in the vicinity) to transmit all pertinent
information to vehicleaccident.com. This can include time, speed,
direction, acceleration and deceleration, duration of trip, and
other pertinent information such as the vehicle maintenance
records, traffic citation records, insurance, and registration
information. The system 10 permits all of this information to be
stored in a centralized location at vehicleaccident.com for later
review by law enforcement officials. The system 10 also stores law
enforcement official reports regarding the accident.
[0100] The insurance industry should benefit by having mobile unit
operators agree in advance to accept a fact finding by an officer
utilizing all of the information from the mobile units 16. This
avoids costly litigation and subrogation. A mobile unit operator
accepting these terms may be permitted special insurance discounts
for agreeing to such.
[0101] In another embodiment, the system can provide mobile units
that do not include a GPS unit. It can be similar to portable
phone(s) operating on the same frequency(s). If a user tunes their
radio to a particular station, they can receive a transmission
through their car stereo system The mobile unit, in this instance,
can have the microphone inside of it so a user can speak "hands
free". This embodiment allows the mobile unit to beep (or voice
activate) if another user comes within range, advising both mobile
units that they have someone they can talk to. The mobile unit
detects another mobile unit by actually receiving the signal of the
other mobile unit. Accordingly, positioning of either mobile unit
is not required.
[0102] Numerous other variations and modifications can be made to
the present invention. For example, the profile searching
capability may be turned on and off via a voice command, a
graphical user interface, or other means. The profile search can
also be automatically set up to be turned on or off on specific
days or at a specific time of day. The user profile can be stored
in the mobile unit, at an Internet site (either a server or a
client site), at a base station, at a base station controller, or
at an entity located through the PSTN.
[0103] The system may display all potential matches for the
requesting user to review, and let the requesting user select the
target user to contact. An additional option is to display the
target user's physical location on the mobile unit, determined
relative to the requesting user's location, or vice versa. The
format for entering the profile information can be predefined, to
ensure consistency in the formatting of the information entered,
which can lead to a higher matching percentage. The user profile
can include a specific time frame in which the user is available
for contact, and some of the profile information can be available
based upon certain times; for example, a contact number can change
depending on whether the user is at home or at work. If a match is
attempted to be made outside the time frame, some of the
information can be blocked from disclosure.
[0104] The system can also validate or otherwise verify the
information in a user's profile, to provide a layer of security to
potential contacts. The system may charge a fee for the
verification, and certain information can be locked to prevent
changes once verified.
[0105] The system can provide multi-party conversations, either
with or without a moderator.
[0106] Although the invention has been described in part by making
detailed reference to preferred embodiments, such detail is
intended to be instructive rather than restrictive. It will be
appreciated by those skilled in the art that many variations may be
made in the structure and mode of operation without departing from
the scope of the invention as disclosed in the teachings
herein.
* * * * *