U.S. patent application number 11/278586 was filed with the patent office on 2006-12-14 for access system.
Invention is credited to Benjamin Gotfried, Bradley L. Gotfried.
Application Number | 20060278700 11/278586 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 33450103 |
Filed Date | 2006-12-14 |
United States Patent
Application |
20060278700 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gotfried; Bradley L. ; et
al. |
December 14, 2006 |
Access System
Abstract
A method for providing access includes providing an electronic
access card having a biometric identifier, biometrically
identifying with the electronic access card an authorized user of
the electronic access card, signaling a monitoring station when the
user is identified, receiving an enabling signal from the
monitoring station, and providing access in response to the receipt
of the enabling signal. The method can also include enabling an
ignition system in response to the receipt of the enabling
signal.
Inventors: |
Gotfried; Bradley L.; (Sai
Kung, HK) ; Gotfried; Benjamin; (Sai Kung,
HK) |
Correspondence
Address: |
AKERMAN SENTERFITT
P.O. BOX 3188
WEST PALM BEACH
FL
33402-3188
US
|
Family ID: |
33450103 |
Appl. No.: |
11/278586 |
Filed: |
April 4, 2006 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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11007136 |
Dec 8, 2004 |
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11278586 |
Apr 4, 2006 |
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10441881 |
May 20, 2003 |
6923370 |
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11007136 |
Dec 8, 2004 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
235/382 ;
340/5.52; 340/5.72 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G07C 9/257 20200101;
B60R 25/04 20130101; G07C 2009/00761 20130101; G07C 5/008 20130101;
B60R 25/255 20130101; G07C 2009/00793 20130101; G07B 15/063
20130101; G07C 9/00309 20130101; B60R 25/252 20130101; G07C 9/26
20200101; B60R 25/257 20130101; B60R 25/00 20130101; G07C 9/00563
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
235/382 ;
340/005.72; 340/005.52 |
International
Class: |
G06K 5/00 20060101
G06K005/00 |
Claims
1. A method for providing access, comprising the steps of:
providing an electronic access card having a biometric identifier;
biometrically identifying with the electronic access card an
authorized user of the electronic access card; signaling a
monitoring station when the user is identified; receiving an
enabling signal from the monitoring station; and providing access
in response to the receipt of the enabling signal.
2. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of
enabling an ignition system in response to the receipt of the
enabling signal.
3. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the steps
of: contacting an answering system at the monitoring station;
providing the answering system with a password; and performing said
receiving and enabling steps.
4. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the steps
of: contacting an operator at the monitoring station; providing the
operator with a password; and performing said receiving and
enabling steps.
5. The method according to claim 1, further comprising the step of:
reading at least a portion of associated user information; and
displaying at least a portion of associated user information.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 11/007,136, filed Dec. 8, 2004, which is a
divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/441,881 filed May
20, 2003 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,923,370, the entirety of which is
herein incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Technical Field
[0003] The present invention relates generally to security systems
and more particularly, to a security system for permitting access
to a vehicle.
[0004] The present invention relates generally to security systems
and more particularly, to a security system for permitting access
to a vehicle.
[0005] The present invention relates generally to security systems
and more particularly, to a security system for permitting access
to a vehicle.
[0006] 2. Description of Related Art
[0007] Virtually all automobiles come equipped with an ignition
system in which a driver uses a key to enable the ignition system
and, hence, start the vehicle's engine. In many cases, the same key
can lock or unlock the doors or the trunk of the automobile's
trunk. This technology has been around for decades and continues to
provide automobile owners with a convenient way to access their
vehicles. Unfortunately, there are several disadvantages associated
with this type of system.
[0008] First, contemporary key and ignition systems provide no
protection from certain types of unauthorized use. For example, if
someone not permitted to use a particular vehicle were to obtain
the keys to that vehicle, nothing will prevent the unauthorized
person from gaining entry to the vehicle and operating it, unless
of course the owner or the authorities learn of the illegal use
beforehand.
[0009] Second, car keys are easily misplaced. As an example, many
drivers leave the keys to their automobiles at places they have
recently visited or they forget where they placed their keys in
their home. Losing or misplacing a set of keys can be quite
stressful, as the owner of the automobile may not have access to
the vehicle and may not be able to start his or her car.
Additionally, if the keys are not eventually located, it can be
quite expensive to obtain a new set.
[0010] Finally, keys can be easily copied. For example, if an
unscrupulous person were to acquire a set of keys, that person may
have one or more duplicates produced at any one of thousands of key
shops or other retail establishments across the country.
Accordingly, there is a need for a system to overcome the
deficiencies of the prior art without leading to complications or
substantially increased costs.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0011] The present invention concerns an access system. The access
system includes an electronic access card having a biometric
identifier in which the biometric identifier identifies an
authorized user of the electronic access card, a card reader in
which the card reader receives the electronic access card, and an
ignition system and a vehicle transceiver coupled to the card
reader. When the biometric identifier identifies the authorized
user, the card reader signals a monitoring station through the
vehicle transceiver. In addition, the card reader receives through
the vehicle transceiver an enabling signal from the monitoring
station, and in response, the card reader enables the ignition
system. In one arrangement, the electronic access card can permit
access to any vehicle having at least the card reader and the
vehicle transceiver, and the biometric identifier can generate
digitized images of fingerprints.
[0012] In one aspect of the invention, the monitoring station can
include an answering system. The user can contact the answering
system and can provide the answering system with a password. In
response to the receipt of the password, the card reader can
receive through the transceiver the enabling signal from the
monitoring station, and the card reader can enable the ignition
system. Alternatively, an operator can be located at the monitoring
station, and the user can provide the operator with the
password.
[0013] In another arrangement, the electronic access card can store
information associated with the user of the electronic access card.
The electronic access card can include at least one electrical
contact to permit the transfer of the associated information to the
card reader. Also, the electronic access card can include a
transceiver for transmitting the associated information to the card
reader. As an example, the associated information stored on the
electronic access card can include at least one of a name, an
address and a driving history of the user. Additionally, the system
can also include a display coupled to the card reader for receiving
at least a portion of the associated information read by the card
reader and for displaying the portion of associated information
when the user operates the vehicle. The display can be located on
the vehicle and the displayed information can include at least a
unique identifier assigned to the user of the electronic access
card.
[0014] The card reader can include a tracking device, and the
tracking device can receive navigational data. Moreover, the system
can include a portable unit, and the portable unit can be a law
enforcement mobile unit. The vehicle transceiver can transmit the
navigational data to at least one of the monitoring station and the
portable unit. For example, the vehicle transceiver transmits at
least a portion of the information associated with the user of the
electronic access card to at least one of the monitoring station
and the portable unit. The vehicle transceiver can transmit the
navigational data and at least a portion of the associated
information to at least one of the monitoring station and the
portable unit using at least one communications satellite or a
wireless communications network. Additionally, the vehicle
transceiver can transmit the navigational data and at least a
portion of the associated information to at least one of the
monitoring station and the portable unit in accordance with a
predetermined interval.
[0015] In yet another aspect of the invention, the card reader can
include an enabling circuit for enabling the ignition system. When
enabled, the ignition system can start an engine of a vehicle and
can lock and unlock at least one door lock of the vehicle. The card
reader can further include an enabling circuit for disabling the
ignition system. In this arrangement, a disabling signal can be
transmitted to the vehicle transceiver from the monitoring station
and forwarded to the card reader. The enabling circuit can disable
the ignition system, and the ignition system can stop an engine of
a vehicle in response to the receipt of the disabling signal by the
card reader.
[0016] In one particular embodiment of the invention, the card
reader, the vehicle transceiver and the ignition system can be
mounted in a vehicle, and the vehicle can further include a vehicle
biometric identifier for identifying the user. The card reader can
signal the monitoring station through the vehicle transceiver when
the vehicle biometric identifier identifies the authorized user.
The vehicle biometric identifier can be positioned in the interior
of the vehicle. The vehicle can further include at least one door,
and the vehicle biometric identifier can be mounted on the
door.
[0017] The system can also include at least one toll booth having
at least one sensor and at least one gate for controlling the flow
of traffic through the toll boot. In addition, the card reader, the
vehicle transceiver and the ignition system can be mounted in a
vehicle, and the electronic access card can store information
associated with the user. The card reader can read the associated
information, and the vehicle transceiver can transmit to the sensor
at least a portion of the associated information read from the
electronic access card. The portion of associated information can
include at least information about the users account with a toll
collection agency. Alternatively, the electronic access card can
include a transceiver for transmitting to the sensor at least a
portion of the associated information stored on the electronic
access card, including the information about the user's account
with the toll collection agency.
[0018] The system can also include a panic button. When the panic
button is pressed, the vehicle transceiver can transmit a distress
signal to at least one of the monitoring station and the portable
unit. The distress signal can include at least an emergency message
and the navigational data. The present invention also concerns a
method of providing access. The method includes the steps of
providing an electronic access card having a biometric identifier,
biometrically identifying with the electronic access card an
authorized user of the electronic access card, signaling a
monitoring station when the user is identified; receiving an
enabling signal from the monitoring station; and enabling a first
ignition system in response to the receipt of the enabling signal.
The method can also include the step of enabling at least a second
ignition system in response to the receipt of the enabling signal.
In another arrangement, the method can further include the steps of
contacting an answering system or an operator at the monitoring
station, providing the answering system or operator with a password
and performing the receiving and enabling steps, Additionally, the
method can further include the steps of reading at least a portion
of associated user information and displaying at least a portion of
associated user information.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] FIG. 1 illustrates an electronic access card in accordance
with the inventive arrangements.
[0020] FIG. 2 illustrates a biometric identifier in accordance with
the inventive arrangements.
[0021] FIG. 3 illustrates a vehicle in which access to the vehicle
is controlled by the electronic access card of FIG. 1 in accordance
with the inventive arrangements.
[0022] FIG. 4 illustrates a slot of a card reader positioned on an
exterior of a vehicle in accordance with the inventive
arrangements.
[0023] FIG. 5 illustrates a vehicle monitoring system in accordance
with the inventive arrangements.
[0024] FIG. 6 illustrates a vehicle having a display for displaying
license plate numbers in accordance with the inventive
arrangements.
[0025] FIG. 7 illustrates a toll collection system in accordance
with the inventive arrangements.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0026] Referring to FIG. 1, an electronic access card 100 is shown.
The card 100 can be used to permit a user to access, for example, a
secure area, a financial account, sensitive information or a
mechanized vehicle such as an automobile. The user is not
necessarily limited to being the owner of the card 100, as any
authorized individual may be permitted to use the card 100. In
addition, the card 100 can store useful information associated with
the user(s) of the card 100, examples of which will be described
later. For convenience, the card 100 can be roughly the size of a
conventional credit card. It must be noted, however, that the card
100 can be any other suitable size.
[0027] The card 100 can include a microprocessor 110, a biometric
identifier 112, one or more electrical contacts 114, a memory 116,
a transceiver 118 and a power supply 120. The card 100 can also
include one or more magnetic strips 122 for storing information in
a manner similar to that employed by conventional credit cards.
Control and data interfaces can also be provided for permitting the
microprocessor 110 to access or to control the operation of the
biometric identifier 112, the electrical contacts 114, the memory
116 and the transceiver 118. The microprocessor 110 can also be
provided with suitable software or firmware for the conventional
operations performed by the microprocessor 110. Further, the
microprocessor 110 can be provided with program routines in
accordance with the inventive arrangements.
[0028] The biometric identifier 112 can measure any suitable
biometric characteristic of a person in possession of the card 100,
can convert this measurement into a digital signal and can transfer
the signal to the microprocessor 110. For example, the biometric
identifier 112 can be designed to perform fingerprint scans, voice
analyses and retinal or iris scans. Those of ordinary skill in the
art, however, will appreciate that the invention is not limited to
these examples, as the biometric identifier 112 can measure other
biometric characteristics. The biometric identifier 112 will be
described in detail later.
[0029] The electrical contacts 114 can be used to create a signal
path from external components to the microprocessor 110, which can
facilitate the transfer of virtually any type of data between the
microprocessor 110 and such components. As an example, the card 100
may be inserted in a card reader having its own biometric
identifier (not shown). In this case, the user of the card 100 can
provide a biometric sample to the biometric identifier of the card
reader, and the card reader can generate a signal to be transferred
through the electrical contacts 114 to the microprocessor 110.
Based on the type of signal generated, the microprocessor 110 can
determine whether the user is authorized to use the card 100. Also,
authorized biometric samples may be transferred from an external
component to the memory 116 through the electrical contacts 114. It
is understood, however, that the invention is not limited to the
above examples, as other types of data can be transferred to the
microprocessor 110 through the electrical contacts 114.
[0030] The memory 116 can be any suitable memory capable of storing
digitized biometric samples previously measured by the biometric
identifier 112 as well as other types of information concerning the
owner of the card 100. For example, the memory 116 can be used to
store digitized images of fingerprints, digitized samples of a
person's voice or digitized images of a person's retina or iris. In
addition, examples of information pertinent to the user of the card
100 that can be stored in the memory 116 include name, address,
social security number, account information, driver license number,
driving record, criminal history (if any), insurance coverage and
vehicle registration. One or more digital photographs of the user
of the card 100 may also be stored in the memory 116. Those of
ordinary skill in the art, however, will appreciate that the memory
116 can store other suitable types of data. Also, the magnetic
strip 122 can store at least a portion of the data stored in the
memory 116 to permit the card 100 to be used with conventional card
readers.
[0031] The memory can be programmable read only memory (PROM),
erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM), electrically
erasable programmable read only memory (EEPROM) or flash memory. Of
course, other types of memory may be used with the invention. In
one arrangement, the memory 116 can be interchangeable or
replaceable so that chips containing pre-stored data may be used.
Alternatively, if the memory 116 is programmable or erasable, the
memory 116 can be updated or reprogrammed through the electrical
contacts 114 and the microprocessor 110.
[0032] The transceiver 118 can transmit and receive radio frequency
(RF) signals, process these signals and forward them to the
microprocessor 110 when RF signals are received by the transceiver
118 or forward them to an external receiver or transceiver when RF
signals are transmitted from the transceiver 118. Any suitable
standard can be used to transmit the RF signals. For purposes of
the invention, the term radio frequency can include any
electromagnetic wave capable of being wirelessly propagated through
a suitable medium. The transceiver 118 enables the card 100 to
wirelessly receive and transmit data that can be transmitted to or
from the card 100 through the electrical contacts 114. For example,
if the memory 116 is programmable or erasable, data can be
transmitted from an external transmitter (not shown) and can be
received by the transceiver 118, which can forward the data to the
microprocessor 110. The microprocessor 110 can then transmit the
data to the memory 116. Moreover, the transceiver 118 can receive
authorizing signals from an external biometric identifier (not
shown) if the user has provided a biometric sample to the external
biometric identifier. Thus, if the user is an authorized user, such
a status can be wirelessly forwarded to the microprocessor 110
through the transceiver 118.
[0033] The power supply 120 can provide power to one or more of the
components of the card 100. For example, the power supply 120 can
provide power to the microprocessor 110, the biometric identifier
112 and the transceiver 118. In another arrangement, the card 100
can receive power from an external source through the electrical
contacts 114. These embodiments are not mutually exclusive, as the
card 100 can include its own power supply 120 and can also receive
power through the electrical contacts 114. As an example, the power
supply 120 can be one or more batteries, and the batteries can be
interchangeable or replaceable.
[0034] In operation, a user can provide a biometric sample to the
biometric identifier 112. The biometric identifier 112 can measure
the biometric sample and can convert this measurement into a
digital signal. The biometric identifier 112 transmits the digital
signal to the microprocessor 110, which then can compare the
digitized sample with biometric samples stored in the memory 116.
If there is a match, the microprocessor 110 can transmit an
authorizing signal to an external reader (not shown) through the
electrical contacts 114 or the transceiver 118. In addition to the
authorizing signal, the microprocessor 110 can forward relevant
information about the user to the external reader through the
electrical contacts 114 or the transceiver 118. The external reader
can transmit data to the microprocessor 110 (and on to the memory
116 if desired) through the electrical contacts 114 and/or the
transceiver 118.
[0035] Referring to FIG. 2, an example of a biometric identifier
112 in accordance with the inventive arrangements is shown. In this
example, the biometric identifier 112 can generate digitized images
of fingerprints and forward these digital signals to the
microprocessor 110. The biometric identifier 112 can include a
platen 210, a light source 212, a fingerprint scanner 214 and a
pressure switch 216.
[0036] The light source 212 can direct light towards the platen 210
and can be, for example, a light emitting diode. The platen 210 can
also be transparent to the wavelength of the emitted light and can
contain the pressure switch 216, which can be electrically coupled
to the microprocessor 110. The pressure switch 216 can detect when
a user has placed his or her finger on the platen 210 and can
signal the microprocessor 110. In addition, the microprocessor 110
can control the operation of the light source 212 and the
fingerprint scanner 214. The fingerprint scanner 214 can be any
biometric device capable of scanning fingerprint images and
converting these images into digitized images.
[0037] A user can place his or her finger on the platen 210, and
the pressure switch 216 can detect this contact and can signal the
microprocessor 110. The microprocessor 110 can signal the
fingerprint scanner 214 and the light source 212, which can emit
the light needed to create a scanned image of the user's
fingerprint. The light can pass through the platen 210 and can
strike the user's finger, which can cause the light to be reflected
to the fingerprint scanner 214.
[0038] From the reflected light, the fingerprint scanner 214 can
generate a scanned image of the user's fingerprint and can convert
the image into a digital signal. The fingerprint scanner 214 can
forward this signal to the microprocessor 110, which can compare
the digitized image with authorized images that are stored in the
memory 116. If there is a match, the microprocessor 110 can
transmit an authorizing signal through the electrical contacts 114
(see FIG. 1) or the transceiver 118 (also see FIG. 1).
[0039] Authorized fingerprint images can be loaded into the memory
116 at any time. For example, the owner of the card 100 and any
other authorized users can have digitized images of their
fingerprints generated by an external scanner and transferred to
the memory 116 through the electrical contacts 114 or the
transceiver 118. This process can occur when the card 100 is first
activated or at any time following its activation. In addition, the
owner of the card 100 can have previously authorized fingerprint
images removed from the memory 116 by an external card reader
containing suitable software and circuitry.
[0040] In another arrangement, the microprocessor 110 can include a
clock that measures the amount of time that has passed since the
confirmation of an authorized fingerprint. Additionally, the
microprocessor 110 can be programmed to disable the card 100 after
a predetermined time interval following this confirmation to limit
the possibility of unauthorized use of the card 100. For example,
once the microprocessor 110 verifies that a user that has had his
or her fingerprint scanned is permitted to use the card 100, the
microprocessor 110 can disable the card 100 one minute later. The
microprocessor 110 can disable the card 100 through a variety of
ways, including by blocking the transfer of data to and from the
card 100.
[0041] Of course, the card 100 can be re-activated once it is
disabled if the authorized user provides another fingerprint
sample. The microprocessor 110 can also be programmed to initiate
another scanning and comparison process just prior to the
exhaustion of the predetermined time interval. As a result, the
authorized user may continuously keep his or her finger on the
platen 210 to override the disabling feature. As will be explained
later, a signal can be transmitted to the microprocessor 110 from
an external component that can override this disabling feature. It
is understood that the predetermined time interval can be any
suitable length of time. Moreover, other suitable measures to
prevent illegal use of the card following initial authorization may
be employed.
[0042] Although one example of a biometric identifier 112 has been
presented, it is important to note that the invention is in no way
limited to this particular system. Those of ordinary skill in the
art will appreciate that other systems suitable for measuring
biometric characteristics can be used. For example, the biometric
identifier 112 can be designed to perform iris or retinal scans. In
fact, the invention does not require the use of biometric
identifier 112, as the card 100 of FIG. 1 can operate without such
a device.
[0043] The card 100 can be used to allow its owner or other
authorized users access to a wide variety of things. An example of
how the card can provide access to a vehicle is shown in FIG. 3.
The vehicle can be any mechanized form of transportation, such as
automobiles, locomotives, airplanes or ships. The vehicle can also
be a form of transportation in which the primary force of
locomotion is provided by a human, such as a bicycle. The card 100
can provide access to an ignition system of a vehicle or some other
critical component of operation.
[0044] In this example, the card 100 can provide a user with access
to an ignition system 310 of a vehicle 300. The vehicle 300 can
include a card reader 312, which can be electrically coupled to the
ignition system 310. As an example, the card reader 312 can be
mounted inside a passenger compartment (not shown) of the vehicle
300, preferably within a comfortable reaching distance of the
steering means of the vehicle 300. It is understood, however, that
the card reader 312 can be positioned at any other suitable
location in or on the vehicle 300. The ignition system 310 can
start an engine 311 of the vehicle 300 and can include circuitry to
unlock or lock one or more door locks 313 of the vehicle 300. As
will be described below, the card reader 312 can transmit a signal
to the ignition system 310 to allow a driver to start the vehicle
300 or unlock one or more of its doors.
[0045] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, the card reader 312 can include
a slot 314 for receiving the card 100, a card reader microprocessor
316, a transceiver 318 and an enabling circuit 320 for selectively
enabling or disabling the ignition system 310. The card reader 312
can receive power from a power supply 322. In one arrangement, the
power supply 322 can be associated with the vehicle 300. For
example, the power supply 322 can be an automobile battery;
however, other suitable power supplies can be used to power the
card reader 312.
[0046] The slot 314 can include electrical contacts (not shown),
which can be used (along with the electrical contacts 114 of the
card 100) to complete a circuit path (not shown) between the card
reader microprocessor 316 and the microprocessor 110 of the card
100 when the card 100 has been inserted in the slot 314. This path
can be used for the transmission of data between these components.
In addition, the circuit path can be used to provide power from the
power supply 322 to one or more of the components of the card 100.
In another arrangement, the transceiver 318 of the card reader 312
can wirelessly transmit data to or receive data from the
transceiver 118 of the card 100 or any other suitable transceiver
or transmitter.
[0047] As an example, when the user of the card 100 is
biometrically identified by the card 100, the user can insert the
card 100 into the slot 314 of the card reader 312. The
microprocessor 110 of the card 100 can signal the card reader
microprocessor 316--through the electrical contacts 114--that the
card 100 has been enabled by an authorized user. In response, the
card reader microprocessor 316 can signal the enabling circuit 320,
which in turn can enable the ignition system 310 for starting the
engine 311. As another example, when the user of the card 100 is
identified, the microprocessor 110 of the card 100 can signal the
card reader microprocessor 316 through the transceiver 118 of the
card 100 and the transceiver 318 of the card reader 312. Further,
the card reader microprocessor 316 can signal the enabling circuit
320 to enable the ignition system 310 for starting the engine 311
or unlocking one or more of the door locks 313 of the vehicle
300.
[0048] In either arrangement, the card reader microprocessor 316
can transmit a signal (through the electrical contacts 114 or the
transceiver 318 and the transceiver 118) back to the microprocessor
110 informing the microprocessor 110, for example, that the engine
of the vehicle 300 has been started. The microprocessor 110 can
then override the disabling feature associated with the biometric
identification of the user. This way, the user is not required to
continuously provide a biometric sample to keep the ignition system
310 enabled and, hence, the engine 311 running.
[0049] Although FIG. 3 illustrates the slot 314 as being integrated
with the card reader 312, the invention is not so limited. For
example, referring to FIG. 4, the slot 314 can be positioned on one
or more doors 402 of the vehicle 300. The slot 314 can also be
positioned on a trunk 404 of the vehicle 300.
[0050] Referring back to FIG. 3, if the card 100 does not include
its own power source, the user can insert the card 100 into the
slot 314, and as noted earlier, power can be transferred from the
power supply 322 to the components of the card 100. At this point,
the biometric identifier 112 can perform the biometric measurement
and the microprocessor 110 can execute the comparison step. In
accordance with the above discussion, if the user is an authorized
user, the microprocessor 110 of the card 100 can then send an
authorization signal to the card reader microprocessor 316 through
the circuit path created by the insertion of the card 100 in the
slot 314. Alternatively, the microprocessor 110 can signal the card
reader microprocessor 316 through the transceiver 118 of the card
100 and the transceiver 318 of the card reader 312.
[0051] In another embodiment, the card reader 312 can include a
biometric identifier 324, which can be used in place of the
biometric identifier 112 on the card 100. Similar to the biometric
identifier 112 on the card 100, the biometric identifier 324 can
perform a biometric measurement, convert the measurement into a
digital signal and transmit the signal to the card reader
microprocessor 316. The card reader 312 can also include a memory
326 for storing authorized biometric samples for comparison with
biometric measurements that the biometric identifier 324 performs.
The overall operation of the biometric identifier 324 and the
processes used to confirm the identity of a user are similar to the
operation described in relation to FIGS. 1 and 2, and as such, no
further description is warranted. The biometric identifier 324 can
be constructed to perform fingerprint, iris or retinal scans or
voice analysis, although the biometric identifier 324 is not
limited to receiving these particular types of biometric
measurements. As another example and referring back to FIG. 4, a
biometric identifier 324 may also be mounted on one or more doors
402 or the trunk 404 of the vehicle 300.
[0052] Continuing with FIG. 3, the card reader 312 can also include
a port 328. The port 328 can be used to transfer data between the
card reader 312 and an external component. For example, authorized
biometric samples that have been digitized can be transferred
through the port 328 to the memory 326. Those of ordinary skill in
the art will appreciate that the invention is not limited to this
example, as any other suitable type of data can be transferred to
the card reader 312 through the port 328. In addition, the
biometric identifier 324 can be used to generate authorized
biometric measurements for storage in the memory 326. These
digitized measurements can be compared with subsequently measured
samples to confirm that the provided sample is from an authorized
user.
[0053] After the engine 311 has been started, there are several
ways to shut it off. For example, the user can merely remove the
card 100 from the slot 314, and the card reader microprocessor 316
can signal the enabling circuit 320. The enabling circuit 320 can
then disable the ignition system 310, which can cause the engine
311 to stop. Alternatively, the vehicle 300 can include a kill
switch 325 for stopping the engine 311. Specifically, the user can
depress the kill switch 325, which can signal the card reader
microprocessor 316. Like the example above, the card reader
microprocessor 316 can signal the enabling circuit 320 to disable
the ignition system 310 and, hence, the engine 311. The kill switch
325 may be particularly useful, for example, if the authorization
signal from the card 100 was wirelessly transmitted, i.e., the card
100 was never inserted in the slot 314.
[0054] Although the card 100 has been illustrated as providing
access to a vehicle, particularly one with an engine, it must be
noted that the invention is not limited in this regard. For
example, the card 100 can be used to provide access to
non-mechanized vehicles. In addition, the card 100 can be used to
provide access to other forms of machinery. Specifically, the card
100 can provide access to automatic teller machines, entrances to
buildings or residences, safes or safety deposit boxes, computers
or any other device that may warrant restriction to its access by
the general public.
[0055] Referring to FIG. 5, the vehicle 300 can be part of an
access system 400. In this arrangement, the vehicle 300 can also
include a vehicle transceiver 330 and a tracking device 332. The
system 400 can include one or more tracking satellites 410, one or
more communications satellites 412, a wireless communications
network 414 and one or more monitoring stations 416. The monitoring
station 416 can include a transceiver 417 and one or more computers
419. In addition, the tracking device 332 can receive navigational
data from the tracking satellites 410 and can forward this data to
the card reader microprocessor 316. In one arrangement, the
tracking device 332 of the vehicle 300 can be a global positioning
system (GPS) receiver and the tracking satellites 410 can be GPS
satellites. Further, the navigational data can include GPS
coordinates such as a latitude coordinate, a longitude coordinate
and an altitude coordinate. The tracking satellites 410 can
communicate with the tracking device 332 over a satellite
communications link 418, which can be any link suitable for
broadcasting RF signals from the tracking satellites 410 to the
tracking device 332.
[0056] The vehicle transceiver 330 can transmit data to or receive
data from the transceiver 417 of the monitoring station 416. In one
arrangement, data can be transmitted between the vehicle
transceiver 330 and the transceiver 417 of the monitoring station
416 over a communications link 420 facilitated by the
communications satellite 412. The communications link 420 can be
any communications link suitable for broadcasting RF signals
between the vehicle transceiver 330, the communications satellite
412 and the transceiver 417 of the monitoring station 416.
Alternatively, data can be transmitted between the vehicle
transceiver 330 and the transceiver 417 of the monitoring station
416 over a communications link 422 and the wireless communications
network 414.
[0057] As is known in the art, the wireless communications network
414 can include, for example, wireless repeaters, base station
units and switches for facilitating communications between a
wireless unit and the public switched telephone network (PSTN) or
another wireless unit. Thus, in addition to supporting any suitable
type of RF communications, the communications link 422 may also
include portions of a hard-wired communications connection, as
shown in FIG. 5. The transceiver 417 of the monitoring station 416
can receive any hard-wired connections in addition to wireless
signals. For purposes of the invention,when referring to any
transmissions between the vehicle transceiver 330 and the
transceiver 417 of the monitoring station 416, it is assumed that
such a transmission can be sent over the communications link 420 or
the communications link 422 unless otherwise noted.
[0058] Virtually any type of data can be transmitted between the
vehicle 300 and the monitoring station 416. For example, the card
reader microprocessor 316 can forward the navigational data that it
receives to the vehicle transceiver 330, which can then transmit
such data to the transceiver 417 of the monitoring station 416. As
another example, the card reader microprocessor 316 can forward
information that is stored on the card 100 to the vehicle
transceiver 330 for transmission to the transceiver 417.
[0059] Any data received by the transceiver 417 of the monitoring
station 416 can be displayed on the computer 419. Accordingly,
operators at the monitoring station 416 can have access to the
whereabouts of a particular vehicle 300 and any relevant
information associated with the user of the card 100 that is stored
on the card 100. For example, the name, address, age, driver
license number, license plate number, driving history, criminal
history, vehicle registration and insurance coverage of the user in
addition to the location of the vehicle 300 can be displayed on the
computer 419 of the monitoring station 416. One or more digital
photographs of the user may also be displayed on the computer 419.
It is understood, however, that other suitable types of information
can be stored on the card 100 and eventually displayed on the
computer 419.
[0060] In another embodiment, information concerning the user of
the card 100 can be transmitted from the computer 419 through the
transceiver 417 of the monitoring station 416 to the vehicle
transceiver 330 and the card reader microprocessor 316. The card
reader microprocessor 316 can then transfer this information to the
card 100 through any of the techniques discussed in relation to
FIG. 3. As an example, if the user of the card 100 has received a
traffic citation, the driving history of the user of the card 100
can be updated at computer 419 of the monitoring station 416, and
this update can be forwarded to the card reader microprocessor 316
and eventually the card 100.
[0061] A disabling signal can also be transmitted from the
monitoring station 416 to the vehicle 300. Specifically, the
computer 419 can generate the disabling signal, and the signal can
be transmitted to the card reader microprocessor 316 through the
transceiver 417 of the monitoring station 416 and the vehicle
transceiver 330. In response, the card reader microprocessor 316
can signal the enabling circuit 320, which can then disable the
ignition system 310 or any other component of the vehicle vital to
its operation. Disabling the ignition system 310 can stop the
engine 311 of the vehicle 300. Such a feature can be useful, for
example, if the vehicle 300 has been stolen or if the owner of the
vehicle 300 is wanted by a law enforcement agency.
[0062] Other signals may be forwarded from the monitoring station
416 to the vehicle 300 as well. For example, if the system 400 uses
GPS technology to determine the location of the vehicle 300, the
system 400 can employ differential GPS to produce more accurate
readings. As is known in the art, differential GPS technology
relies on a stationary GPS receiver with known GPS coordinates for
correcting errors in the transmissions from GPS satellites to other
stationary or mobile targets containing GPS tracking devices. As an
example, a differential tracking device 424 can be built into the
monitoring station 416 and can receive signals from the tracking
satellites 410 over the satellite communications link 418.
[0063] The differential tracking device 424, because its GPS
coordinates have previously been accurately measured, can generate
an error correction factor that can be used to error correct the
transmissions from the tracking satellites 410. The error
correction factor can be transmitted from the transceiver 417 of
the monitoring station 416 to the vehicle transceiver 330 and the
card reader microprocessor 316. The card reader microprocessor 316
can use this error correction factor to produce a more accurate
reading of the GPS coordinates of the vehicle 300.
[0064] It is understood, however, that the differential tracking
device 424 is not limited to being positioned at the monitoring
station 416, as any number of differential tracking devices 424 can
be placed at other suitable locations. Moreover, the system 400 can
be designed to rely on pre-existing differential tracking devices
424 constructed by, for example, a governmental agency.
Nevertheless, the use of differential GPS is not a requirement of
the invention; in fact, it must be stressed that the invention is
not limited to tracking a vehicle 300 through the use of GPS
technology, as any other technique for locating the vehicle 300 can
be practiced with the invention.
[0065] Enabling signals for starting the ignition system 310 can
also be transmitted from the monitoring station 416 to the vehicle
300. In particular, once the user has been biometrically
identified, the card reader microprocessor 316 can generate an
authorizing signal, which can be transmitted to the computer 419 of
the monitoring station 416 through the vehicle transceiver 330 and
the transceiver 417. In response, the computer 419 can produce an
enabling signal, which can be transmitted from the transceiver 417
to the vehicle transceiver 330 and, in turn, the card reader
microprocessor 316. The card reader microprocessor 316 can signal
the enabling circuit to activate the ignition system 310 to start
the engine 311 or unlock one or more of the door locks 311 of the
vehicle 300.
[0066] The transmission of an enabling signal from the monitoring
station 416 to the vehicle 300 may also be performed if the user of
the card 100 has misplaced the card 100, if the card 100 has been
stolen or if the user has accidentally locked the card 100 in the
vehicle 300. Specifically, the user can be provided with a
telephone number or Web site address for contacting the monitoring
station 416 and a password unique to the user. If necessary, the
user can contact the monitoring station 416 and can provide his or
her password. The password can be given to a live person or can be
received by an answering system 426 at the monitoring station 416.
The answering system 426 can include suitable voice recognition
software to permit the user to speak his or her password or can
include circuitry for receiving tones from a touch-tone telephone.
The answering system 426 can also include suitable software and
circuitry for receiving the password over the Internet or some
other communications network.
[0067] The live person or the answering system 426 can enter the
received password into the computer 419, which can generate an
enabling signal. In accordance with the above discussion, the
enabling signal can be forwarded to the card reader microprocessor
316, which can signal the enabling circuit 320 to cause the
ignition system 310 to start the engine 311 of the vehicle 300 or
to unlock one or more of the door locks 313 of the vehicle 300.
Although unique to the user of the card 100, the user may choose to
share his or her password with friends or family to allow such
persons access to the vehicle 300.
[0068] Signals can also be transmitted between the vehicle 300 and
a portable unit 428 in lieu of or in addition to the monitoring
station 416. As an example, the portable unit 428 can be a police
cruiser or any other law enforcement mobile unit. It is understood,
however, the portable unit 428 can be associated with other types
of agencies. The portable unit 428 can include a computer 430 and a
transceiver 432 to facilitate the transmission of signals between
the portable unit 428 and the vehicle 300. As a result, all or at
least a portion of the features associated with the monitoring
station 416 can be performed by the portable unit 428.
[0069] For example, if the vehicle 300 is within the range of the
transceiver 432 of the portable unit 428, information associated
with the user of the card 100 can be transmitted from the vehicle
transceiver 330 to the transceiver 432. The received data can then
be displayed on the computer 430 of the portable unit 428. Thus, if
the vehicle 300 is stopped by the portable unit 428, the operator
of the portable unit 428, which may be a law enforcement officer,
can have access to the driving history or criminal history of the
operator of the vehicle 300, i.e., the user of the card 100. The
operator of the portable unit 428, informed of potentially
troubling history concerning the operator of the vehicle 300, can
take whatever precautionary steps that are warranted.
[0070] In one arrangement, the information being transmitted from
the vehicle 300 can be transmitted in accordance with a
predetermined interval. For example, the card reader microprocessor
316 can instruct the vehicle transceiver 330 to broadcast the
information that it receives from the card reader microprocessor
316 (e.g., driver information, GPS coordinates) every few seconds
or minutes. For longer time intervals, less power is consumed from
the power supply 322, which may become an issue if the engine 311
of the vehicle 300 is off Accordingly, the card reader
microprocessor 316 can monitor the power supply 322 and can adjust
the time between transmissions to preserve power.
[0071] During the time interval, the card reader microprocessor 316
may enter a passive stage in which only the most vital functions
are performed. Once the time interval is over, the card reader
microprocessor 316 can enter an active stage. In the active stage,
the card reader microprocessor 316 can receive information from the
tracking device 332 and can update, if necessary, any information
concerning the user of the card 100. The card reader microprocessor
316 can then instruct the vehicle transceiver 330 to transmit the
updated data to the monitoring station 416 or the portable unit
428. Once the data is transmitted, the card reader microprocessor
316 may reenter the passive stage, and another time interval may
begin. This feature can increase the efficiency of the card reader
312 by lowering its power consumption.
[0072] In another arrangement, an activation signal can be
transmitted from the transceiver 417 of the monitoring station 416
or the transceiver 432 of the portable unit 428 to the vehicle
transceiver 330 and to the card reader microprocessor 316. The card
reader microprocessor 316 can enter the active stage and can
perform whatever tasks that are typically performed during the
active stage. As a result, operators in the monitoring station 416
or the portable unit 428 may instantaneously access information
about the vehicle 300 and the user of the card 100.
[0073] In another embodiment of the invention, each user of the
card 100 can be assigned one or more unique identifiers. The
assigned identifiers can be unique in that each identifier will be
given to only one user. For purposes of the invention, the term
"unique identifier" can include any suitable sequence of
characters, such as alphanumeric characters, used to identify a
particular person or a registration out of a pool of other
individuals or registrations. As an example, the unique identifier
can be a license plate number, a driver license number or an
insurance account number. A government agency or any other
authorized entity can assign the unique identifiers, and the
identifiers can be permanent such that each assignee may keep the
assigned identifier throughout his or her lifetime or for the
duration of the function with which the identifier is associated.
For example, if the unique identifier is a license plate number,
the assignee may keep the assigned license plate number for his or
her driving history.
[0074] Referring to FIG. 1, each individual using the card 100 may
have his or her unique identifier transferred to the card 100 from
an external system to the microprocessor 110 through the
transceiver 118 or the electrical contacts 114. The microprocessor
110 can then transfer to the memory 116 for storage any number of
the unique identifiers. Referring to FIGS. 1 and 5, when the user
of the card 100 is biometrically identified and the card 100 is
inserted in the slot 314 of the card reader 312, the card reader
microprocessor 316 can access this particular user's assigned
identifier through the electrical contacts 114. Alternatively, the
identifier can be transferred to the card reader microprocessor 316
through the transceiver 118 of the card 100 and the transceiver 318
of the card reader 312.
[0075] In addition, the unique identifier can be transmitted to the
computer 419 of the monitoring station 416 or the computer 430 of
the portable unit 428 in accordance with the above discussion.
Thus, the user's unique identifier can be displayed at the computer
419 or the computer 430 with other information concerning the
user.
[0076] Referring to FIG. 5 only, the user's unique identifier can
also be displayed on the vehicle 300. For example, the vehicle 300
can include a display 434 for displaying the identifier of the user
of the card 100. In one arrangement, the display 434 can be a
liquid crystal display having a backlit display. Such a display 434
can increase the visibility of the identifier. Those of ordinary
skill in the art, however, will appreciate that other suitable
display units can be used with the invention. In fact, the display
434 is not limited to a purely electronic display, as
electro-mechanical or simply mechanical displays can be used as
well.
[0077] The card reader microprocessor 316 can forward to the
display 434 the identifier that has been assigned to the user of
the card 100 that has been biometrically identified. The display
434 can then display the user's identifier. This feature of the
card 100 is applicable to any vehicle 300 having a card reader 312
and a display 434. As such, the user's unique identifier can be
transferrable such that it can be displayed on any vehicle 300 that
he or she operates and that is equipped with these components.
[0078] The display 434 can be positioned at any suitable location
on the vehicle 300. In one arrangement, the display 434 can be
mounted on the rear of the vehicle 300, just below the bumper. This
configuration is illustrated in FIG. 6. Notably, many states
require conventional license plates to be mounted on a motorized
vehicle in this area.
[0079] Referring back to FIG. 5, the vehicle 300 can include one or
more panic buttons 436. In one arrangement, the panic button 436
may be positioned near the driver's seat of the vehicle 300 for
easy access by the user of the card 100 if the user is driving the
vehicle 300. Of course, the panic button 436 may be positioned at
any other suitable location inside or even outside the vehicle 300.
When the panic button 436 is pushed, a signal can be forwarded to
the card reader microprocessor 316 of the card reader 312. The card
reader microprocessor 316 can then instruct the vehicle transceiver
330 to transmit a distress signal to either the transceiver 417 of
the monitoring station 416 or the transceiver 432 of the portable
unit 428 or both. The navigational data of the vehicle 300 and any
relevant information associated with the user of the card 100 may
also be transmitted to the monitoring station 416 and/or the
portable unit 428 in addition to the distress signal.
[0080] The distress signal received by the monitoring station 416
or the portable unit 428 may contain an emergency message such as
"Send Help Immediately," which can be displayed at the computer 430
of the portable unit 428 or the computer 419 of the monitoring
station 416. The card reader microprocessor 316 may be programmed
with the emergency message prior to the activation of the overall
system 400.
[0081] Referring to FIG. 7, a toll collection system 600 in
accordance with the inventive arrangements is shown. The toll
collection system 600 can include a computer 610, a communications
network 612 such as the Internet, a toll collection agency 614, at
least one toll booth 616 and at least one vehicle 300 as described
in relation to FIG. 5. The toll booth 616 can include one or more
sensors 618 and one or more gates 620 for selectively permitting
the passage of traffic. In this arrangement, the vehicle 300, in
combination with the card 100, can be used to automatically pay
tolls associated with the passage of, for example, certain
highways, bridges or ferries.
[0082] Specifically, the card 100 can be programmed with account
information associated with the user of the card 100. Referring to
FIGS. 1 and 5, the account information can be stored in the memory
116 and can be eventually transferred to the card reader
microprocessor 316. The transfer of information to the card 100 has
been previously illustrated, and a detailed discussion is not
warranted. Referring back to FIG. 7, the user of the card 100 can
then make a payment with the toll collection agency 614. As an
example, the user can make an electronic payment over the
communications network 612 to the toll collection agency 614 using
the computer 610. The user of the card 100 is credited with this
payment, and the information is forwarded to a database (not shown)
at the toll booth 616. The sensor 618 contains suitable software
and circuitry for accessing this database.
[0083] When the vehicle 300 approaches the toll booth 616, the
sensor 618 can transmit an activation signal to the vehicle
transceiver 330. The vehicle transceiver 330 can pass the
activation signal to the card reader microprocessor 316.
Subsequently, the card reader microprocessor 316 can forward to the
vehicle transceiver 330 the account information associated with the
user of the card 100 who has previously been biometrically
identified. The vehicle transceiver 330 can transmit the account
information to the sensor 618, which automatically checks the
database to determine whether the account is in good standing. If
the account has an acceptable credit, the sensor 618 signals the
gate 620 to permit the vehicle to pass
[0084] In another embodiment, the card reader microprocessor 316
can instruct the vehicle transceiver 330 to transmit the account
information in accordance with a predetermined interval, similar to
the process described above with respect to the transmissions to
the monitoring station 416 and the portable unit 428. If so, the
activation signal transmitted from the sensor 618 may not be
necessary for operation of the system 600.
[0085] Also, the transceiver 318 on the card 100 can receive the
activation signal from the sensor 618 and can transmit the account
information associated with the user of the card 100 back to the
sensor 618. This feature permits the vehicle 300 to pass through
the toll booth 616 even if the vehicle 300 is not equipped with a
vehicle transceiver 330.
[0086] Although the present invention has been described in
conjunction with the embodiments disclosed herein, it should be
understood that the foregoing description is intended to illustrate
and not limit the scope of the invention as defined by the
claims.
* * * * *