U.S. patent application number 12/150363 was filed with the patent office on 2008-09-25 for control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method.
Invention is credited to Raymond Anthony Joao.
Application Number | 20080234878 12/150363 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 46281203 |
Filed Date | 2008-09-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080234878 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Joao; Raymond Anthony |
September 25, 2008 |
Control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method
Abstract
A control apparatus and method, including a first control
device, located at a vehicle or premises, capable of controlling
one or more of a plurality of at least one of a respective system,
equipment system, component, device, equipment, and appliance, of a
respective vehicle or premises, with a first signal. The first
control device generates and/or transmits the first signal in
response to a second signal generated by and/or transmitted from a
second control device located remote from the vehicle. The second
signal is automatically received by the first control device. The
second control device generates and/or transmits the second signal
in response to a third signal generated by and/or transmitted from
a third control device located remote from the vehicle and the
second control device. The third signal is automatically received
by the second control device.
Inventors: |
Joao; Raymond Anthony;
(Yonkers, NY) |
Correspondence
Address: |
RAYMOND A. JOAO, ESQ.
122 BELLEVUE PLACE
YONKERS
NY
10703
US
|
Family ID: |
46281203 |
Appl. No.: |
12/150363 |
Filed: |
April 28, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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10244334 |
Sep 16, 2002 |
7397363 |
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12150363 |
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09551365 |
Apr 17, 2000 |
6542076 |
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10244334 |
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09277935 |
Mar 29, 1999 |
6549130 |
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09551365 |
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08683828 |
Jul 18, 1996 |
5917405 |
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09277935 |
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08622749 |
Mar 27, 1996 |
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08683828 |
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60187735 |
Mar 8, 2000 |
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60190379 |
Mar 17, 2000 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
701/2 ; 340/6.11;
701/48 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B60R 25/102 20130101;
B60R 25/257 20130101; B60R 2025/1016 20130101; B60R 2025/1013
20130101; B60R 25/018 20130101; G08B 19/00 20130101; B60W 2556/50
20200201; B60R 2325/304 20130101; B60R 25/33 20130101; B60R 25/252
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
701/2 ; 701/48;
340/825 |
International
Class: |
G06F 17/00 20060101
G06F017/00; B60W 10/00 20060101 B60W010/00; G06F 13/42 20060101
G06F013/42 |
Claims
1. A control apparatus, comprising: a first control device, wherein
the first control device is capable of controlling one or more of a
plurality of at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment
system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment,
and a vehicle appliance, of a vehicle, wherein the first control
device at least one of generates a first signal and transmits a
first signal for controlling the at least one of a vehicle system,
a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device,
a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance, wherein the first
control device is located at the vehicle, wherein the first control
device at least one of generates the first signal and transmits the
first signal in response to a second signal, wherein the second
signal is at least one of generated by a second control device and
transmitted from a second control device, wherein the second
control device is located at a location which is remote from the
vehicle, wherein the second signal is transmitted from the second
control device to the first control device, and further wherein the
second signal is automatically received by the first control
device, wherein the second control device at least one of generates
the second signal and transmits the second signal in response to a
third signal, wherein the third signal is at least one of generated
by a third control device and transmitted from a third control
device, wherein the third control device is located at a location
which is remote from the vehicle and remote from the second control
device, wherein the third signal is transmitted from the third
control device to the second control device, and further wherein
the third signal is automatically received by the second control
device.
2. A control apparatus, comprising: a first control device, wherein
the first control device at least one of generates a first signal
and transmits a first signal for controlling at least one of a
vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a
vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance, of a
vehicle, wherein the first control device is located at a location
remote from the vehicle, wherein the first control device at least
one of generates the first signal and transmits the first signal in
response to a second signal, wherein the second signal is at least
one of generated by a second control device and transmitted from a
second control device, wherein the second control device is located
at a location which is remote from the first control device and
remote from the vehicle, wherein the second signal is transmitted
from the second control device to the first control device, and
further wherein the second signal is automatically received by the
first control device, wherein the first signal controls a third
control device, wherein the third control device is capable of
controlling one or more of a plurality of the at least one of a
vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a
vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance,
wherein the first signal is transmitted from the first control
device to the third control device, and further wherein the first
signal is automatically received by the third control device,
wherein the third control device is located at the vehicle, and
further wherein the third control device at least one of generates
a third signal and transmits a third signal for controlling the at
least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a
vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a
vehicle appliance.
3. A control apparatus, comprising: a first control device, wherein
the first control device is capable of controlling one or more of a
plurality of at least one of a premises system, a premises
equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a
premises equipment, and a premises appliance, of a premises,
wherein the first control device at least one of generates a first
signal and transmits a first signal for controlling the at least
one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises
component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises
appliance, wherein the first control device is located at the
premises, wherein the first control device at least one of
generates the first signal and transmits the first signal in
response to a second signal, wherein the second signal is at least
one of generated by a second control device and transmitted from a
second control device, wherein the second control device is located
at a location which is remote from the premises, wherein the second
signal is transmitted from the second control device to the first
control device, and further wherein the second signal is
automatically received by the first control device, wherein the
second control device at least one of generates the second signal
and transmits the second signal in response to a third signal,
wherein the third signal is at least one of generated by a third
control device and transmitted from a third control device, wherein
the third control device is located at a location which is remote
from the premises and remote from the second control device,
wherein the third signal is transmitted from the third control
device to the second control device, and further wherein the third
signal is automatically received by the second control device.
Description
RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation application of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 10/244,334, filed Sep. 16, 2002, which
is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 09/551,365, filed Apr. 17, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No.
6,542,076, which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S.
patent application Ser. No. 09/277,935, filed Mar. 29, 1999, now
U.S. Pat. No. 6,549,130, which is a continuation application of
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/683,828, filed Jul. 18, 1996,
now U.S. Pat. No. 5,917,405, which is a continuation-in-part
application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/622,749, filed
Mar. 27, 1996, abandoned. U.S. patent application Ser. No.
09/551,365, filed Apr. 17, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,542,076, also
claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent
Application Ser. No. 60/187,735, filed Mar. 8, 2000, and U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/190,379, filed Mar. 17,
2000.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention pertains to a control, monitoring
and/or security apparatus and method and, in particular, to a
control, monitoring, and/or security, apparatus and method for
exercising and/or providing control, monitoring and/or security,
for vehicles, motor vehicles, marine vessels and vehicles,
aircraft, recreational vehicles, residential premises, commercial
premises, structures and/or equipment, in a network
environment.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Anti-theft devices for vehicles and premises are known in
the prior art for preventing and/or thwarting the theft of a
vehicle and/or of a premises. Vehicle recovery devices or systems
are also known for recovering a motor vehicle. These known
anti-theft and/or vehicle recovery devices may be of the active or
passive variety and are typically available in many forms (i.e.
steering wheel locks, hood locks, ignition system cut-off devices,
alarms, vehicle homing devices with associated receiving devices,
etc.). In some cases, these devices may be of a very simple design,
while in other cases, they may be of a more sophisticated design.
However, as is well known, these known anti-theft and/or vehicle
recovery devices or systems may be easily defeated by thieves, and
especially, by professional thieves and/or have other disadvantages
associated with their use. Experience has shown that even the most
sophisticated of anti-theft devices may be defeated by an
experienced, and determined, thief, and that vehicle recovery
systems also have drawbacks associated with their use.
[0004] In the case of some vehicle recovery devices, their use may
be limited by the availability, or lack thereof, of the
corresponding tracker or receiver device(s) in the particular
locality, or the lack of same by the law enforcement department in
a particular area.
[0005] In recent times, an even more disturbing criminal practice,
involving the theft of motor vehicles, has rendered most anti-theft
devices virtually useless. This criminal practice, known as
car-jacking, has gained widespread attention. Car-jacking usually
occurs when a thief or thieves confront a motorist or motor vehicle
operator, when the motor vehicle engine is running, or when the car
thief obtains easy access to the motor vehicle ignition keys and to
the motor vehicle, either by force or by the threat of force,
thereby bypassing, and rendering useless, any of the widely known
anti-theft and/or theft-deterrent devices, thereby gaining control
and/or possession of the motor vehicle. In these instances, the
motorist or motor vehicle operator is well advised to surrender the
motor vehicle. However, once surrendered, the motor vehicle is
virtually lost to the car thief.
[0006] Anti-theft and/or theft-deterrent devices which attempt to
defeat the ultimate vehicle theft, such as caused by car-jacking,
by disabling the motor vehicle during the "getaway", such as by
shutting off power to the motor vehicle engine, have major
disadvantages and drawbacks in that they could shut-off the vehicle
engine at an inopportune instant in time, thereby causing a
dangerous condition to exist which could lead to an accident and
resulting injuries to individuals as well as damage to property.
These accidents may arise when the motor vehicle power is suddenly
shut-off while the vehicle is in motion, which condition could
cause the vehicle to suddenly, or even gradually, lose power on a
roadway or highway, while traveling at a moderate or at a high rate
of speed and/or when a power steering and/or a power braking
system, which derives its power from the vehicle engine, suddenly
loses power upon the loss of the engine power. As noted above,
accidents such as these may result in injuries to people, both
inside and outside the vehicle, as well as property damage caused
by, and to, the vehicle.
[0007] The above described disadvantages and drawbacks of the prior
art devices may also pose accident liability concerns to those
manufacturers and/or sellers of these devices, as well as to the
owner or operator of the motor vehicle, as these entities and/or
individuals may be held liable for the injuries and/or the damages
sustained as a result of the above described accidents.
[0008] Vehicle recovery systems are known which include a vehicle
homing device, which is activated and which emits homing signals
which are used to home in on, or to locate, the vehicle. These
vehicle recovery systems usually require that the law enforcement
agency have corresponding homing signal receivers and/or equipment
and that they be kept in operating condition, in order to
effectively home in on, or locate, the vehicle. Unless the local
police or law enforcement authorities have such equipment, the
homing signal recovery device serves little purpose in recovering
the vehicle in that locale.
[0009] Other vehicle recovery systems require that a police report
be made prior to an activation of the homing and/or recovery
equipment, which practice could result in the loss of valuable time
in the vehicle recovery process. The above problems concerning
vehicle security are equally applicable to and present an equal or
even greater problem in providing security for marine vessels and
vehicles, aircraft and/or recreational vehicles.
[0010] Providing security for residential premises, commercial
premises, structures, and/or equipment, is also of great concern,
especially when such premises, structures and/or equipment are left
vacant for hours and/or days at a time. These concerns may arise
while residential premises are left unoccupied during the working
day, when second homes and/or vacation homes are left unoccupied
for days, weeks and months at a time, and in commercial premises
which may also be left unoccupied for long periods of time such as
after working hours or during weekends or other prolonged periods
of time when these premises may be closed and/or unoccupied.
[0011] While anti-theft and/or security systems exist for
residential and/or commercial premises, such systems fail to enable
the owner or occupant and/or other authorized individual to
conveniently and effectively exercise and/or perform control,
monitoring and/or security functions with regards to these
premises. The same holds true for other types or structures and/or
equipment. The ability to conveniently and effectively enable one
to exercise and/or to perform control, monitoring and/or security
functions would prove to be invaluable in allowing owners,
occupants and/or other authorized individuals to exercise and/or to
provide control, monitoring and/or security functions over these
premises, from a remote location and at any time.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] The present invention provides an apparatus and a method for
overcoming the disadvantages and drawbacks which are associated
with the known prior art control, monitoring and/or security
systems and provides a control, monitoring and/or security
apparatus and method and, in particular, to a control, monitoring,
and/or security, apparatus and method for exercising and/or
providing control, monitoring and/or security, vehicles, motor
vehicles, marine vessels and vehicles, aircraft, recreational
vehicles, residential premises, commercial premises, structures
and/or equipment, in a network environment.
[0013] The present invention also provides an apparatus and a
method which also overcomes the shortcomings of prior art
anti-theft and/or theft deterrent systems and, in particular,
anti-theft and/or theft-deterrent systems for vehicles, marine
vessels and vehicles, aircraft and recreational vehicles as well as
for residential premises and/or for commercial premises.
[0014] The apparatus of the present invention includes a
transmitter system for transmitting an electrical, an electronic,
an electromagnetic or other suitable signal, transmittable over a
communication system and/or medium, upon an activation by the owner
or authorized user or operator of the vehicle, motor vehicle,
marine vessel, aircraft, recreational vehicle, and/or the owner,
occupant and/or authorized individual of and for the residential
premises and/or the commercial premises.
[0015] The transmitter should also consist of a user interface
device and a transmitting device. The transmitter should also have
a receiver associated therewith for receiving signals. In this
regard, the transmitter/receiver combination may be replaced and/or
implemented with and/or by a transceiver. The transmitter transmits
a signal, in response to an authorized user or operator accessing
and/or activating the apparatus.
[0016] The transmitter system is a remote system, which may or may
not be physically connected to the remainder of the apparatus.
Further, the transmitter system is not located in the vehicle,
motor vehicle, marine vessel or vehicle, aircraft, recreational
vehicle, residential premises and/or commercial premises, but
rather, is located external from, and/or separate and apart from,
the vehicle.
[0017] The apparatus also includes a receiver for receiving the
signals which are transmitted by the transmitter or transceiver
system. The receiver receives the signal(s) which is transmitted by
the transmitter or transceiver and provides an indication, in the
form of a signal transmission, back to the transmitter or
transceiver and, in particular, the transmitter receiver, which
signifies that a signal has been received by the apparatus. The
receiver also generates data which is indicative of the signal, or
a portion thereof, which has been received. The receiver should
also be provided with its own transmitter. In this regard, this
receiver/transmitter combination may also be replaced and/or
implemented with and/or by a transceiver.
[0018] The transmitter/receiver combination should provide for the
transmission and for the reception of a multitude of remote
electrical, electronic, electromagnetic, and/or other suitable
signals, over long distances and/or in a mobile and/or a wireless
communications environment. Telephone signals and telephone
communication devices can be utilized in the present invention as
well as personal computers which can be utilized with
telecommunications and/or other suitable communication systems
and/or mediums.
[0019] Upon receiving the signal, the receiver generates a distinct
signal which is indicative of the signal transmitted from the
transmitter. At least a portion of the transmitted signal may
include a valid access code, which accesses the receiver and the
apparatus. The access code serves to provide for security measures
which may be taken in conjunction with the use of the
apparatus.
[0020] The apparatus also includes a controller or a CPU 4 (CPU),
which is electrically connected with the receiver and which
receives, or reads, whichever the case may be, the signal or
signals, or portions thereof, which are generated by the receiver.
The CPU also has associated therewith a read only memory device(s)
and random access memory device(s). The data which is received by
the receiver is processed by the apparatus.
[0021] The CPU may also have a transmitter associated therewith for
transmitting signals to the transmitter receiver or transceiver. In
this manner, the CPU of the apparatus may respond to a user data
transmission, command, or inquiry with a transmitted signal.
[0022] In the case of vehicles, motor vehicles, marine vessels and
vehicles, aircraft and recreational vehicles (hereinafter referred
to collectively as "vehicles"), the CPU is electrically connected
and/or linked to the vehicle ignition system, which is located
externally from the apparatus. The CPU may or may not be connected
with and/or linked to the vehicle ignition system through an
ignition system interface. The CPU may transmit signals to, as well
as receive signals from, the vehicle ignition system. In this
manner, the CPU and the vehicle ignition system may exchange
information between each other.
[0023] The CPU, upon receiving an appropriate signal from the
receiver, and upon the completion of a data processing routine, may
issue a suitable signal, to the vehicle ignition system. This
signal may be one which will disable, re-enable and/or reset the
vehicle ignition system. The CPU may also interrogate the ignition
system and/or receive data from the ignition system which is
indicative of ignition system status.
[0024] The CPU may also be electrically connected and/or linked to
the vehicle fuel system which is also located externally from the
apparatus. The CPU may or may not be connected with and/or linked
to the vehicle fuel system through a fuel system interface. The CPU
is capable of issuing a signal, to disable, re-enable and/or reset
the vehicle fuel system. The CPU may also interrogate and/or
receive data from the fuel system which is indicative of fuel
system status. The CPU may also provide control over the vehicle
exhaust system in a similar fashion or in an analogous manner.
[0025] The CPU may also be electrically connected and/or linked to
at least one or more of a variety of vehicle equipment systems. The
vehicle equipment system or systems are located externally from the
apparatus and may or may not be connected and/or linked to the CPU
via a respective and/or associated vehicle equipment system or
systems interface. The vehicle equipment system or systems, which
varies for each type of vehicle (i.e., vehicle, motor vehicle,
marine vessel or vehicle, aircraft and/or recreation vehicle) may
include, but is not limited to, an exterior and/or an interior
siren or alarm, a horn, a vehicle exterior light system(s), a power
door lock or other locking system or device, a hood locking system,
a video recording device and/or a camera, and/or an audio recording
device, for providing surveillance of the vehicle interior and/or
exterior, an intercom system, for providing communications between
vehicle users and/or occupants and the owner, operator and/or
authorized individual, cellular or mobile phones and/or any one or
more of the widely known vehicle anti-theft systems, alarm systems
and/or stolen vehicle and/or other type of vehicle recovery systems
and/or devices.
[0026] Each of the vehicle equipment systems, if utilized in
conjunction with the apparatus, may be activated, de-activated,
reset or in some other way controlled and/or monitored by the
apparatus of the present invention. The use of any one or more of
the vehicle equipment system or systems is optional.
[0027] The vehicle equipment system or systems receives signals
from the CPU, which signals serve to activate, de-activate, or vice
versa, whichever the case may be, the respective vehicle equipment
system(s).
[0028] The apparatus may also comprise a vehicle position and
locating device which can be utilized in order to determine the
position and/or the location of the vehicle. The vehicle position
and locating device can be utilized so as to determine the position
of the vehicle anywhere in the world and provide for the
transmission of vehicle position and/or location data, via an
associated transmitter, to an appropriate system receiver so that
vehicle position would be available to the owner, user and/or
authorized individual and/or so that the vehicle may be located
and/or tracked and recovered.
[0029] The apparatus may also comprise a vehicle position and
locating system receiver, which is employed for receiving and/or
processing the data which is transmitted from the vehicle position
and locating device.
[0030] The vehicle position and locating device may comprise a
positioning system computer and a global positioning device with
associated global positioning system receiver. The vehicle position
and locating device may also comprise a position data transmitter
for transmitting the vehicle position and/or location data to the
vehicle position system receiver. The vehicle position and locating
device may also comprise a data base which contains digital and/or
digitized map data, which can be utilized in order to determine the
geographical position of the vehicle from the calculated "raw"
position data obtained from the global positioning device. In this
manner, vehicle position and/or location on a map may be
obtained.
[0031] Vehicle position and/or location data can be transmitted to
the vehicle position system receiver which may be located at, or
accessible to, the authorized user or operator and/or authorized
individual at any location and/or at the location of an authorized
office or agency, such as at a central security office or agency or
local or regional law enforcement office or agency, which is duly
authorized to receive the vehicle position and/or location data for
the vehicle.
[0032] The vehicle position and locating device may also perform
updated global positioning calculations so as to provide for a
tracking of a vehicle movement. The apparatus may also ascertain
vehicle movement by monitoring and/or tracking vehicle position
data as it is updated.
[0033] The vehicle position system receiver may be equipped with an
appropriate computer system and a receiver for receiving the data
transmitted by the transmitter of the vehicle position and locating
device.
[0034] The vehicle position system receiver may comprise a CPU for
controlling the operation of the system receiver which CPU is
connected and/or linked to the receiver for receiving and/or for
reading the vehicle position and/or location data. The system
receiver may also comprise a user interface device, a display
device, an output device and a database containing digital map data
for use in determining geographical position of a vehicle. The
system receiver may also comprise a transmitter for sending data
and/or signals to the vehicle position and locating device and/or
for transmitting signals to the CPU and/or to the transmitter
receiver.
[0035] The system receiver may also be utilized in conjunction with
a home and/or a personal computer and/or other personal
communications device and/or apparatus which may be utilized with
an associated receiver or equivalent peripheral device(s).
[0036] A home and/or personal computer, and/or other personal
communications device and/or apparatus may also be utilized for
performing the functions of the transmitter and the vehicle
position and locating system receiver. The apparatus may also be
utilized in conjunction with a computer network such as an on-line
service and/or on, or over, the Internet and/or the World Wide Web,
by employing an appropriate server computer and/or an associated
Web Site and/or Web Site technology in conjunction with an
appropriate communication medium.
[0037] Upon the occurrence, or the discovery thereof, of the theft
of a vehicle, or simply in order to monitor vehicle status or
location, the authorized user or operator may activate the
apparatus by entering an access code into the transmitter or
transceiver interface. Entry of a valid access code will activate a
signal transmission from the transmitter or transceiver to access
the apparatus.
[0038] The authorized user or operator can then transmit a command
code from the transmitter or transceiver to the receiver of the
apparatus. In a case when the vehicle has been stolen, the command
code may be a vehicle disable command code. It should also be noted
that a vehicle re-enable or reset command code, or any other
suitable command code, monitoring code, etc., which would represent
a function or operation to be performed by the apparatus, may also
be entered. The command code is then transmitted to, and received
by, the receiver.
[0039] The command code data is then transmitted to, or read by,
the CPU for command code identification and for further processing,
if necessary. In this manner, an authorized user or operator, upon
learning of the theft of the vehicle, or simply attempting to
ascertain the status and/or location of the vehicle, may easily
access and/or activate the apparatus by simply "calling up" or
transmitting a signal to the apparatus.
[0040] In the case where the motor vehicle has been stolen, and the
authorized user or operator wants to prevent and/or thwart the
theft of the vehicle and recover the vehicle, the command code
which may be entered may be a vehicle disable command code (disable
code) which will disable the vehicle and activate the vehicle
position and/or locating device. If the authorized user or operator
desires to re-enable the vehicle, such as when the motor vehicle
has been found or recovered, so as to render the vehicle re-enabled
or operational, the command code to be entered may be a vehicle
re-enable or reset command code.
[0041] If a valid disable code is transmitted to the apparatus, the
vehicle position and locating device is activated and various
vehicle systems, including the vehicle ignition system, fuel or
fuel pump system and/or exhaust system, and/or at least one or more
of a variety of utilized vehicle equipment system(s), may either be
activated, de-activated, or reset depending upon the
circumstances.
[0042] The operation of the vehicle position and locating device
may proceed and continue simultaneously and/or concurrently with
the operation of the apparatus and the CPU. Any one or more of a
vehicle equipment systems, including a vehicle alarm and/or homing
device may also be activated.
[0043] Upon the vehicle being found or recovered, such as in a
manner resulting from utilizing the vehicle position and locating
device, the authorized user or operator may once again access the
apparatus by entering a valid access code and by then entering a
valid re-enable or reset command code.
[0044] The CPU may then issue a control signal to re-enable or
reset the vehicle ignition system, vehicle fuel or fuel pump system
and/or exhaust system and/or de-activate or re-activate, any one or
more of the various vehicle equipment systems which are utilized.
The vehicle position and/or locating device may also be
de-activated.
[0045] Safeguards may be employed in order to prevent a wrong or a
mis-dialed number or unauthorized transmission(s) from accidentally
accessing and activating the apparatus, and further, may serve to
prevent an unauthorized or an unwanted disabling or re-enabling or
setting or resetting of the vehicle ignition system, the vehicle
fuel or fuel pump system and/or the vehicle exhaust system and/or
the activation, de-activation, or resetting of any one or more of
the various vehicle equipment systems which may be utilized.
[0046] As noted above, a disable command code may cause the
apparatus to activate a vehicle position and locating device which
may operate simultaneously and/or concurrently with, and
independently of, the operation of the apparatus and the CPU. Once
activated, the vehicle position and locating device may activate
the global positioning device which calculates vehicle position
data by using well known global positioning calculation methods
and/or techniques.
[0047] Once the vehicle position data has been calculated, the
position data can then be transmitted to the vehicle position
system receiver which is located at the location of the authorized
user or operator, or at the authorized office, agency or other
entity. Geographic position and/or location data (i.e. street
location, location on a map, etc.) for the vehicle may also be
obtained by processing the position and/or location data in
conjunction with digital map and/or other suitable data. The
transmission of position data may be repeated for a predetermined
time interval, after which the global positioning device may
calculate updated position data.
[0048] The vehicle position data which is received by the vehicle
position system receiver may then be employed to find and/or to
recover the vehicle. Vehicle position data may be updated,
continuously and/or in some other suitable manner, by repeating the
global positioning calculations.
[0049] Vehicle position data, along with updated vehicle position
data, may also be utilized in order to track and/or to monitor
vehicle movement. Vehicle position data may also be displayed
and/or output for use in finding and/or recovering the vehicle.
[0050] The authorized user or operator may discontinue operation of
and/or de-activate the global positioning device and/or the vehicle
position system receiver, such as when the vehicle has been found
or recovered and/or at any other time.
[0051] The global positioning device may be utilized to locate
and/or to track vehicle movement anywhere in the world. In this
manner, the apparatus of the present invention may be utilized to
disable or de-activate vital vehicle systems and/or to find and/or
recover a stolen vehicle and/or to monitor vehicle operation and/or
vehicle location and/or movement.
[0052] Further, the present invention provides for an apparatus and
a method for disabling and/or re-enabling various systems of the
vehicle, when the vehicle is not in use, simply by "calling up" the
apparatus so as to disable the vehicle and, thereby, provide added
security against vehicle theft and/or to prevent damage to the
vehicle and/or to any components thereof. In this manner, an
authorized user or operator may disable the vehicle ignition
system, fuel or fuel pump system, exhaust system and/or any one or
more of a variety of the vehicle equipment systems, of a vehicle
which may be parked and/or in use, from any location and/or at any
time.
[0053] An authorized user or operator may also access the apparatus
at any time and, with the use of an appropriate command code, may
determine the operating status of the vehicle, the apparatus,
and/or any one or more of the various vehicle systems so as to
determine if, for example, the ignition system or fuel or fuel pump
system is activated or on, thereby alerting the authorized user or
operator that someone is operating the vehicle. An authorized user
or operator may also access the apparatus so as to determine
vehicle position and/or location data or information and/or the
geographic location of the vehicle. In this manner, the authorized
user or operator can determine the status and/or the location of
his or her vehicle at any time and for any reason. In this regard,
a safe and an effective anti-theft and/or vehicle recovery
apparatus and method is provided by the present invention.
[0054] The apparatus of the present invention may be utilized in
conjunction with a multitude and/or a variety of valid command
codes, wherein each different command code may selectively disable
or re-enable or reset any one or any combination of the vehicle
systems, such as the vehicle ignition system, the vehicle fuel or
fuel pump system, the vehicle exhaust system and/or any one or more
of the various vehicle equipment systems which may be utilized. In
this manner, the authorized user or operator may utilize the
present invention to selectively disable, re-enable, de-activate or
re-activate any one or more of the vehicle systems, or a
combination thereof, at his or her discretion, at any time, and
from any location.
[0055] As noted above, an authorized user or operator may also
utilize command codes for determining status of the apparatus or of
the vehicle, or of any one or more of the vehicle systems. A
command code may also be employed to simply determine vehicle
position.
[0056] The apparatus may also be programmable by the user or
operator via the transmitter or transceiver, or at the vehicle, so
that certain parameters, such as the timing, and/or the degree of
disabling or re-enabling, of the various vehicle systems may be
programmed.
[0057] By utilizing a multitude of command codes, including disable
codes and/or re-enable or reset codes, which codes affect different
vehicle systems, or combinations thereof, it is also possible to
selectively control the vehicle systems from a remote location. The
apparatus may also be programmed for automatic activation and/or
self-activation and/or automatic and/or programmed operation via a
command code(s), so that the apparatus may become activated upon a
certain occurrence, or lack thereof, and thereafter, provide for
the disabling and/or the re-enabling of any one or more of the
vehicle systems along with activating the vehicle position and/or
locating device. The apparatus may also provide information
pertaining to vehicle theft, status and/or position.
[0058] The apparatus may also be designed and/or programmed to
detect its unauthorized use and/or its use by an unauthorized
individual. In this regard, the vehicle is capable of reporting
itself as being stolen.
[0059] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention, an
arming device and an activation device may be utilized in
conjunction with the apparatus in place of the transmitter/receiver
combination so as to provide for an automatic monitoring and/or
activation of the apparatus. In such an embodiment, the command
code(s) may be a default code and/or be user selected and/or
programmable. Automatic activation may also be programmed by the
user or operator via a command code(s) with apparatus operation
activated upon the occurrence, or lack thereof, of a specified
event.
[0060] In this manner, the arming device/activation device
combination may be utilized so as to activate the apparatus and/or
any one or more of the vehicle systems, including the ignition
system, the fuel or fuel pump system, the exhaust system and/or any
one or more of the various vehicle equipment systems which are
utilized in conjunction with the apparatus. The vehicle position
and locating device may also be activated via the automatic
activation of the apparatus.
[0061] In yet another preferred embodiment of the present
invention, the vehicle position and locating device may comprise a
plurality of global positioning devices which may be strategically
located at various points and/or locations in or on the vehicle.
Each of the global positioning devices may be placed at different
points and/or locations in, or on, the vehicle, with the distances
between each of the respective devices being recorded and stored.
Upon the activation of the global positioning devices and the
calculation of each position or location of each device, any change
in distance between any two or more of the respective devices could
be utilized in order to determine if the vehicle, or any portion
thereof, has been dismantled or structurally altered, at least in
part, or possibly to a greater extent.
[0062] The apparatus and the method of the present invention may
also be utilized in conjunction with a central security office or
agency, such as a private security service and/or by a local or
regional law enforcement office or agency, in order to provide a
prompt means by which to report a vehicle theft, provide for a
manner in which to disable and/or re-enable a vehicle or vehicle
system, and to determine vehicle position and/or location so as to
facilitate the locating and the recovery of the vehicle. In this
regard, the present invention may be utilized so as to allow
control, monitoring and/or security functions to be exercised
and/or performed by an authorized third party. The present
invention may also be utilized so as to provide for a prompt law
enforcement theft reporting, law enforcement response to the theft
report and recovery of the vehicle.
[0063] An authorized user or operator may register their vehicle
and apparatus with a central security office or agency such as by
registering vehicle identification information along with vehicle
access and command code data and any other pertinent information.
Upon the occurrence of a vehicle theft, or the discovery thereof,
the authorized user or operator can access the apparatus so as to
exercise and/or to perform control, monitoring and/or security
functions over same while, at the same time, allowing for a
control, monitoring and/or a security function to be exercised
and/or performed by the central security office or other
entity.
[0064] The apparatus, which is utilized at the central security
office and/or other entity, may have the same control capabilities
over the vehicle as that of the apparatus utilized in the vehicle.
In this regard, status of the apparatus, the vehicle, any one or
more of the various vehicle systems, and/or the vehicle position
and/or location data may be obtained by the apparatus located at
the central security office and/or other entity.
[0065] The apparatus which is utilized at the central security
office may also be utilized in connection with an on-line service
and/or on, or over, the Internet and/or the World Wide Web so as to
provide for a means by which the authorized user or operator may
utilize the apparatus in conjunction with a home and/or a personal
computer and/or a commercial or industrial computer system (i.e.,
an internet server computer) and/or any other appropriate
device.
[0066] In another embodiment, an access code may be only
transmitted to, and received by, the central security office
apparatus and the vehicle may be accessed and controlled via an
access and command code(s) which are transmitted by and from the
central security office apparatus. Transmitter devices may also be
located in the vehicle so as or to allow a vehicle occupant(s) to
transmit signals directly to the central security office and/or
agency and/or central equipment, (i.e., satellite, cellular
communications site etc.) such as in instances where help may be
required and/or in emergency situations.
[0067] In yet another embodiment, the access code may only be
transmitted to, and received at, the vehicle. In this embodiment,
the apparatus which is located in the vehicle may then transmit
data to the apparatus located at the central security office
thereby alerting the central security office or agency of the
vehicle theft or status inquiry. The apparatus at the central
security office may thereafter exercise and/or provide control over
and/or monitor the functions of, the vehicle apparatus for a
plurality of vehicles. Further, the central security office
apparatus may also provide the means by which to allow a central
security office or local or regional law enforcement office or
agency to provide security monitoring over the vehicle(s) which are
registered therewith.
[0068] In the case were the apparatus may be automatically
activated, the vehicle apparatus may transmit a signal, indicative
of vehicle theft and/or an unauthorized use or operation of the
vehicle, to the central security office apparatus thereby reporting
the unauthorized use or operation, or theft, of the vehicle before
the authorized user or operator is able to discover same.
[0069] The central security office apparatus may also be utilized
so as to verify and/or monitor apparatus accessing and/or
activation by the authorized user or operator. The authorized user
or operator may also "call" the central security office from any
location, via any communication means and/or device in order to
determine the status and/or the whereabouts or location of his or
her vehicle. Both the vehicle apparatus and the central security
office apparatus can exercise and/or perform the same control,
monitoring and/or security functions over the vehicle.
[0070] The present invention can also be utilized, in a similar
and/or analogous manner, to provide control, monitoring and/or
security for boats, marine vessels, airplanes and aircraft, and/or
recreational vehicles of any kind or type.
[0071] In still another embodiment, the present invention may be
utilized in conjunction with a residential premises, residential
building and/or a home and/or a household control, monitoring
and/or security system.
[0072] In the case where the present invention is utilized in
conjunction with a residential premises, residential building
and/or a home and/or a household control, monitoring and security
system, the CPU may be electrically connected and/or linked to the
home and/or household electrical system, which is located
externally from the apparatus. The CPU may or may not be connected
with and/or linked to the home electrical system through an
electrical system interface. The CPU may transmit signals to, as
well as receive signals from, the home electrical system. In this
manner, the CPU and the home electrical system, may exchange
information between each other.
[0073] The CPU, upon receiving an appropriate signal from the
receiver, and upon the completion of the requisite data processing
routine may issue an electrical, an electronic, and/or any other
suitable signal, including a digital command signal, to the home
electrical system. This electrical, electronic and/or other
suitable signal or digital command signal may be one which will
disable, re-enable or reset the home electrical system. The CPU may
also interrogate the electrical system and/or receive data from the
electrical system which is indicative of electrical system status
(i.e., whether the electrical system is on or off and/or to what
extent certain portions thereof may be on or off).
[0074] The CPU may also be electrically connected and/or linked to
the home heating system which is also located externally from the
apparatus. The CPU may or may not be connected with and/or linked
to the home heating system through a heating system interface. The
CPU is capable of issuing an electrical, electronic and/or other
suitable signal, including a digital signal, to disable or to
re-enable the home heating system. The CPU may also interrogate
and/or receive data from the home heating system which is
indicative of home heating system status (i.e., whether the heating
system is on or off and/or to what extent certain portions thereof
may be on or off).
[0075] The CPU may also be electrically connected and/or linked to
the home air conditioning system which is also located externally
from the apparatus. The CPU may or may not be connected with and/or
linked to the home air conditioning system through an air
conditioning system interface. The CPU is capable of issuing an
electrical, electronic and/or other suitable signal, including a
digital signal, to disable or to re-enable the home air
conditioning system. The CPU may also interrogate and/or receive
data from the home air conditioning system which is indicative of
home air conditioning system status (i.e., whether the air
conditioning system is on or off and/or to what extent certain
portions thereof may be on or off).
[0076] The CPU may also be electrically connected and/or linked to
the home water system which is also located externally from the
apparatus. The CPU may or may not be connected and/or linked to the
home water system through a home water system interface (i.e.,
electrical shut-off valve). The CPU is capable of issuing an
electrical, electronic and/or other suitable signal, including a
digital signal, to disable or to re-enable the home water system.
The CPU may also interrogate and/or receive data from the home
water system which is indicative of the water system status (i.e.,
whether the home water system or any portion thereof is on or
off).
[0077] The CPU may also be electrically connected and/or linked to
the home thermostat or environmental control system so as to
control and monitor interior temperature. In this manner, the home
thermostat system may then be adjusted and/or controlled by the
user or operator via the apparatus. The home thermostat system may
be connected to the home heating system and/or to the home air
conditioning system so as to activate, set and/or control the
operation of these systems so as to achieve the desired temperature
and/or environmental conditions in the home.
[0078] The CPU may also be electrically connected and/or linked,
via interfaces if needed, to any one or more of a variety of home
equipment systems which may include a home anti-theft and/or
burglary alarm system, an interior and/or exterior siren or alarm,
interior and/or exterior lighting systems, electrical and/or
electronically controlled locking devices for doors and/or windows,
including electrical and/or electronic dead bolt locks and/or other
types of locking devices, electrical systems and devices for
controlling electrical circuits or systems room-by-room,
device-by-device, and/or appliance-by-appliance.
[0079] The home equipment system may also include devices for
controlling any one or more of the electrical circuitry, such as
circuits controlled by fuses, circuit breakers or equivalent
devices, devices for controlling and/or monitoring hot water
heater(s), garage door opener(s), lawn sprinkler system(s),
electric fences and/or fencing, in-ground or above-ground pool
equipment, filters and/or heaters, home water valves, individual
room water valves, home fire detector equipment and home fire
extinguishment equipment, jacuzzis, hot tubs, pet feeders and/or
any other electrical and/or electronic devices and/or appliances
and/or those devices and/or appliances which may be electrically
and/or electronically controllable. Home equipment systems may door
and window closing, opening and locking devices.
[0080] The home equipment systems may also include any and all home
appliances such as televisions, telephones, telephone answering
machines, VCRs, stoves, ovens, microwave ovens, door bells,
individual lights or lamps, blenders, toasters, irons, computers,
word processors, stereos, radios, and any other home appliance
and/or devices which may be electrically and/or electronically
activated and/or controllable.
[0081] The home equipment systems may also include video recording
equipment, which may include video recording device(s) and/or a
camera(s), such as those utilized in conjunction with personal
computers, televisions, digital televisions, interactive
televisions, surveillance systems, display telephones and/or other
communication devices, including personal communication
devices.
[0082] The video recording device(s) and/or camera(s) may be
digital recording devices or cameras or other suitable video
recording and/or photography equipment. The video recording
device(s) and/or camera(s) may be located at any location on and in
the interior and/or at the exterior of the home or premises and may
have associated therewith transmitting devices for transmitting the
recorded video or photograph(s) to the owner or occupant and/or
other authorized individual so as to provide surveillance and/or
monitoring capabilities for the home and/or premises.
[0083] The home equipment system may also include audio recording
equipment, which may include microphones and/or tape recorders,
such as those utilized in conjunction with personal computers,
televisions, digital televisions, interactive televisions, display
telephones and/or other communication devices, including personal
communication devices.
[0084] The audio recording device(s) may have a transceiver or
transmitter/receiver system associated therewith for transmitting
audio information to the owner or occupant and/or authorized
individual so as to provide for the monitoring and/or the
surveillance of the interior and/or the exterior of the home.
[0085] The home equipment systems may also include an intercom
system or device or telephone, cellular, digital or otherwise, for
providing a means by which to allow the user or operator, or other
authorized individual, to communicate with the persons present in,
or occupants of, the home or the premises. The home equipment
systems may also include monitoring device(s) for reading and/or
monitoring the home fuel supply, gas meter and/or gas usage, water
supply, water meter and/or water usage, electrical generator and/or
alternator operation, electricity meter and/or electricity usage,
heat and/or air conditioning usage, gas and/or oil or other fuel
supply and/or usage, telephone usage, appliance usage, etc., a home
control system and/or any other home operation and/or system
function.
[0086] The monitoring device(s) may have associated therewith a
transceiver or transmitter/receiver system for transmitting data
and/or information recorded and/or read by the monitoring device(s)
to the user or operator and for receiving signals such as, for
example, control signals, by which the user or operator may
exercise control over the monitoring device(s). The monitoring
devices and the corresponding devices which they monitor may be
linked via wireless devices and/or over a wireless medium.
[0087] When used in conjunction with a residential premises,
residential building and/or home or household system, the apparatus
and method of the present invention may be utilized and/or operates
in the same or in a similar and/or analogous manner as it is
utilized and/or operates in conjunction with vehicles so as to
provide control, monitoring and/or security functions for and over
a home and/or residential premises. In this manner, a homeowner or
occupant may access a home system at any time, and from any
location, and thereby exercise and/or provide control, monitoring
and/or security functions over any home system, equipment, device
and/or appliance. The owner or occupant may also monitor the
status, state, or operation of any home system, equipment, device
and/or appliance. Lastly, the owner or occupant may exercise and/or
perform security related functions or operations on, and over, the
home system, equipment, device and/or appliance.
[0088] In still another embodiment, the apparatus and method of the
present invention may be utilized in conjunction with a commercial
building, commercial office and/or commercial premises control,
monitoring and/or security system. In the case where the present
invention is utilized in conjunction with a commercial building,
commercial office and/or commercial premises control, monitoring
and/or security system, the CPU may be electrically connected
and/or linked to the commercial office and/or premises electrical
system, heating system, air-conditioning system, water system,
thermostat system, and/or to at least any one or more of a variety
of commercial office and/or premises equipment systems, which may
include an anti-theft and/or burglary alarm system, an interior
and/or exterior siren or alarm, interior and/or exterior lighting
and/or lighting system(s), electrical and/or electronically
controlled locking devices for doors and/or windows, including
electrical and/or electronic dead-bolt locks and/or locking
devices.
[0089] The CPU may also be connected and/or linked to commercial
office and/or premises equipment systems which include electrical
systems for controlling electrical circuits or systems
room-by-room, device-by-device, and/or appliance-by-appliance,
devices for controlling any one or more of the electrical
circuitry, such as circuits controlled by fuses, circuit breakers
or equivalent devices, devices for controlling and/or monitoring
hot water heaters, garage door openers, lawn sprinkler systems,
electric fences and/or fencing, in-ground or above-ground pool
and/or fountain equipment, filters and/or heaters, fire detector
equipment, fire extinguishment equipment, and office equipment,
power door and/or window closing, opening and locking equipment and
any other electrical and/or electronic device or item or any device
and/or item which is electrically or electronically
controllable.
[0090] The commercial office and/or premises equipment systems may
also include any and all commercial office and/or premises
appliances such as televisions, telephones, telephone answering
machines, alarm systems, VCRs, stoves, ovens, microwave ovens, door
bells, individual lights or lamps, office equipment and appliances,
computer and associated peripherals, word processors, stereos,
radios, manufacturing equipment and any other commercial office
and/or premises equipment.
[0091] The commercial office and/or premises equipment system may
also include a video recording equipment, which may include video
recording device(s) and/or a camera(s), such as those utilized in
conjunction with personal computers, televisions, digital
televisions, interactive televisions, display telephones and/or
other communication devices, including personal communication
devices, and/or a still picture camera(s). The video recording
device(s) or camera(s) may be digital recording devices or cameras
or other suitable devices or cameras, including typical video
recording devices or cameras for providing video recording and/or
surveillance.
[0092] The video recording device(s) or camera(s) may have a
transceiver or transmitter/receiver system associated therewith for
transmitting video images and/or photographs, recorded by the video
recording device(s) or camera(s), to the owner or occupant and/or
authorized individual so as to provide for the monitoring and/or
the surveillance of the interior and/or the exterior of the
commercial office and/or premises.
[0093] The commercial office and/or premises equipment system may
also include audio recording equipment, which may include
microphones and/or tape recorders, such as those utilized in
conjunction with personal computers, televisions, digital
televisions, interactive televisions, display telephones and/or
other communication devices, including personal communication
devices.
[0094] The audio recording device(s) may have a transceiver or
transmitter/receiver system associated therewith for transmitting
audio information to the owner or occupant and/or authorized
individual so as to provide for the monitoring and/or the
surveillance of the interior and/or the exterior of the commercial
office and/or premises.
[0095] The commercial office and/or premises equipment system may
also include an intercom system or device or telephone, cellular,
digital or otherwise, for providing a means by which to allow the
owner or occupant, or other authorized individual, to communicate
with the persons present in, or occupants of, the commercial office
and/or premises. The commercial office and/or premises equipment
system may also include monitoring device(s) for reading and/or
monitoring the commercial office and/or premises fuel supply, fuel
usage, water supply, water usage, electricity meter, electricity
usage, electrical generator and/or alternator operation, heat
and/or air conditioning usage, gas and/or oil or other fuel usage,
telephone usage, commercial office and/or premises equipment and/or
appliance usage, etc., and/or commercial office and/or premises
control system and/or any other commercial office and/or premises
operation and/or system function.
[0096] The monitoring device(s) may have associated therewith a
transceiver or transmitter/receiver system for transmitting data
and/or information recorded and/or read by the monitoring device(s)
to the user or operator and for receiving signals such as, for
example, control signals, by which the user or operator may
exercise control over the monitoring device(s). The monitoring
devices and the corresponding equipment and/or devices to be
monitored may be linked via wireless devices and/or over wireless
communication systems.
[0097] The commercial office and/or premises equipment system or
systems receives signals from the CPU, which signals serve to
activate or de-activate, or vice versa, whichever the case may be,
the respective commercial office and/or premises equipment
system(s) which are utilized in conjunction with the apparatus.
[0098] When utilized in conjunction with a commercial office and/or
premises, the apparatus and method of the present invention is
utilized and/or operates in the same, or in a similar and/or
analogous, manner as it is utilized and/or operates in conjunction
with vehicles and/or with residential premises, etc., so as to
allow control, monitoring and/or security functions to be exercised
and/or performed on, and over, a commercial office and/or
premises.
[0099] In this manner, an owner, occupant and/or authorized
individual may access a commercial office and/or premises system at
any time and from any location and thereby exercise and/or perform
control, monitoring and/or security functions over any commercial
office and/or premises system, equipment, device and/or appliance.
The owner, occupant or authorized individual may also monitor the
status, state or operation of any commercial office and/or premises
system, equipment, device and/or appliance.
[0100] In any of the above described embodiments, the present
invention may be utilized in conjunction with any suitable
communication device(s) and/or communication system(s). In this
manner, the present invention may be utilized in conjunction with a
telephone, a touch tone telephone, a cordless telephone and/or a
cellular or mobile telephone, a home and/or a personal computer
having associated telecommunication devices or other suitable
peripheral device(s) such as a modem and/or a fax/modem, personal
communication devices which can operate over an appropriate
telecommunications system, and/or other suitable communications
systems and/or mediums, including radio signal, optical, satellite
and/or other communications systems and/or mediums. Any suitable
communication system and/or medium may be utilized.
[0101] Personal communication service (PCS) systems and devices,
including stationary, portable and/or hand-held devices, may also
be utilized. Digital signal communications devices and systems may
also be utilized. Interactive and/or digital televisions, personal
communication devices, personal communication services (PCS)
devices, personal digital assistants, cellular telephones, display
telephones, display cellular telephones and electronically equipped
watches and/or other devices and/or effects may also be utilized
for performing user interactive control, monitoring and/or security
functions in conjunction with the present invention.
[0102] The interface devices utilized in any of the various
embodiment of the present invention may be wireless devices or
modules which need not be directly connected to the CPU or to its
respective equipment system in a hard-wired manner. In this regard,
hard-wired electrical connections may be unnecessary. In the case
of wireless interface devices or modules, corresponding wireless
technology and/or systems should be utilized in order to provide
for the wireless control and/or operation of the respective
equipment(s).
[0103] The present invention can be utilized to access, monitor,
and/or record or store, operation data and/or information for any
of the herein-described vehicles, motor vehicles, boats, marine
vessels, airplanes, aircraft, and/or recreational vehicles, at a
location remote from the respective vehicles, motor vehicles,
boats, marine vessels, airplanes, aircraft, and/or recreational
vehicles. The present invention can be utilized to access, monitor,
and/or record or store, operation data and/or information for any
of the herein-described residential premises and/or commercial
premises. Any of the respective operation data and/or information
can be obtained at, and/or stored at, any of the transmitters, home
and/or personal computers, computers, and/or server computers,
described herein.
[0104] The apparatus and method of the present invention can be
utilized in a network environment in conjunction with a server, a
server computer, and/or any suitable central processing
computer.
[0105] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, any
of the server, server computer, or computer, and/or any of the home
and/or personal computers or communication devices described herein
and/or utilized in conjunction with the apparatus and method of the
present invention can comprise and/or can be implemented with any
number of computers or computer systems. In this regard, any of the
server, server computer, or computer, and/or any of the home and/or
personal computers or communication devices can be a single
computer or computer system or can be comprised of, or can include,
a plurality (i.e. two or more) computers or computer systems. In
this manner, the server, server computer, or computer, and/or any
of the home and/or personal computers or communication devices, can
be comprised of, and/or can be implemented by utilizing, any number
of computers or computer systems.
[0106] The server, server computer, or computer, and/or any of the
home and/or personal computers or communication devices can also be
comprised of, or can include, any number of computers and/or
computer systems and can also include any number of transmitters,
receivers, and/or other hardware devices and/or peripheral
devices.
[0107] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, any
of the receivers or transmitters associated with and/or utilized in
conjunction with a server, server computer, or computer, and/or any
of the home and/or personal computers or communication devices,
described herein, can be or can include any number of receivers or
transmitters, respectively.
[0108] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to
provide a control, monitoring and/or security, apparatus and
method.
[0109] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
control, monitoring and/or security, apparatus and method for any
one or more of vehicles, motor vehicles, marine vessels and
vehicles, aircraft, recreational vehicles, residential premises
and/or commercial premises.
[0110] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide a control, monitoring and/or security, apparatus and method
for any one or more of vehicles, motor vehicles, marine vessels and
vehicles, aircraft, recreational vehicles, residential premises
and/or commercial premises, which can provide for the remote
control, monitoring and/or accessing, of the respective vehicles,
motor vehicles, marine vessels and vehicles, aircraft, recreational
vehicles, residential premises and/or commercial premises.
[0111] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method which
provides for the selective control, activation and/or de-activation
and/or for the programmed control of any one or more of an ignition
system, a fuel system, an exhaust system and/or any one or more of
various equipment systems of, and for, vehicles, motor vehicles,
marine vessels and vehicles, aircraft and/or recreational
vehicles.
[0112] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method which
provides for the selective control, activation and/or deactivation
and/or for the programmed control of any one or more of an
electrical system, heating system, water system, air conditioning
system, thermostat system and/or any one or more of the various
systems, equipment systems, devices and/or appliances, etc., of,
and for, residential premises and/or commercial premises.
[0113] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method which is
utilized in conjunction with a global positioning system or other
positioning system and which provides for a determination of the
position and/or location of, and for, vehicles, motor vehicles,
marine vessels and vehicles, aircraft, recreational vehicles,
residential premises and/or commercial premises.
[0114] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method which
provides programming, information gathering, and monitoring
capabilities for, and regarding, the status of and/or the operating
state(s) of various systems of, and for, vehicles, motor vehicles,
marine vessels and vehicles, aircraft, recreational vehicles,
residential premises and/or commercial premises.
[0115] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide a control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method
for vehicles, motor vehicles, marine vessels and vehicles,
aircraft, recreational vehicles, residential premises and/or
commercial premises which is utilized in conjunction with a home
and/or a personal computer, a telephone, a display telephone, a
cellular telephone, a television, an interactive television, a
digital television, a personal digital assistant and/or a personal
communications services device and/or other personal communications
devices.
[0116] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method for
vehicles, motor vehicles, marine vessels and vehicles, aircraft,
recreational vehicles, residential premises and/or commercial
premises which may be utilized, operated and/or controlled via,
over, or with, an on-line service, and/or on, or over, the Internet
and/or the World Wide Web.
[0117] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide a control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method
for vehicles, motor vehicles, marine vessels and vehicles,
aircraft, recreational vehicles, residential premises and/or
commercial premises which provides for an automatic activation,
self-activation and/or programmed activation of the apparatus.
[0118] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method for
vehicles, motor vehicles, marine vessels and vehicles, aircraft,
recreational vehicles, residential premises and/or commercial
premises which is utilized in conjunction with wireless devices
and/or systems and/or with wireless communication technology.
[0119] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide a control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method
for vehicles, motor vehicles, marine vessels and vehicles,
aircraft, recreational vehicles, residential premises and/or
commercial premises which is utilized in conjunction with a central
security office and/or agency.
[0120] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method for
vehicles, motor vehicles, marine vessels and vehicles, aircraft,
recreational vehicles, residential premises and/or commercial
premises which is utilized in conjunction with a central security
office and/or agency and/or with, or over, an on-line service
and/or on, or over, the Internet and/or the World Wide Web and/or
other information structure, infra-structure, system and/or
communication system or medium.
[0121] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method which is
programmable and which may be programmed for self-activation and/or
programmed operation.
[0122] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method which
provides video conferencing with individuals and/or occupants of
any of the vehicles, boats, marine vessels, airplanes, residential
premises, and/or commercial premises described herein.
[0123] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide a control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method
which can control and/or monitor fuel cells, fuel cell operation,
fuels cell electrical power output, fuel cell fuel supply level, or
fuel cell by-product output.
[0124] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method which
can facilitate the monitoring of the status, operating status,
and/or condition, of any of the vehicles and/or premises described
herein and/or any of the systems, components, and/or devices of any
of the respective vehicles and/or premises described herein.
[0125] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method which
facilitates the transmitting of data and/or information recorded
and/or read by the monitoring device(s) to the user or operator of
the respective vehicle and/or premises.
[0126] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide a control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method
which facilitates the receiving of signals and/or control signals
by which the user or operator may exercise control over the
respective vehicle, premises, and/or monitoring device(s)
associated therewith.
[0127] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide a control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method
which facilitates the detection of failures in any of the vehicles
and/or premises, and/or any of the respective equipment systems
described herein.
[0128] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method which
facilitates the reporting of a failure(s) of any of the systems,
equipment systems, devices, components, and/or appliances utilized
in conjunction with the vehicles and/or premises described herein,
to an individual, a central processing computer, and/or a
centralized office.
[0129] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method which
facilitates the utilization of a command computer in conjunction
with controlling, monitoring, and/or providing diagnostics for, any
of the systems, equipment systems, devices, components, and/or
appliances utilized in conjunction with the vehicles and/or
premises described herein.
[0130] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method which
facilitates the use of a command computer for controlling and/or
monitoring the operating status and/or condition of a respective
system, equipment system, subsystem, component, device, and/or
appliance, of any of the vehicles and/or premises described
herein.
[0131] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method which
provides diagnostic information for any of the systems, components,
and/or devices, of and/or associated with any of the vehicles
and/or premises described herein.
[0132] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method which
facilitates the monitoring of wear and/or usage of any of the
herein-described electronic, electrical, mechanical, and/or
electro-mechanical, systems, devices, and/or components of and/or
associated with any of the vehicles and/or premises described
herein.
[0133] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method which
facilitates the controlling and/or the monitoring vehicle systems
and/or premises systems and/or any systems, devices, and/or
components of and/or associated with the respective vehicles and/or
premises.
[0134] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method which
facilitates the control of the movement, the motion or the
operation of any of the vehicles and/or premises and/or any of the
systems, devices and/or components of and/or associated with the
respective vehicles and/or premises.
[0135] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
control, monitoring, and/or security, apparatus and method which
provides for the remote accessing of operation data for any one or
more of the herein-described vehicles, motor vehicles, boats,
marine vessels, airplanes, aircraft, and/or recreational
vehicles.
[0136] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide a control, monitoring, and/or security, apparatus and
method which provides for the remote accessing, obtaining, or
storage, of operation data for any one or more of the
herein-described vehicles, motor vehicles, boats, marine vessels,
airplanes, aircraft, and/or recreational vehicles.
[0137] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a control, monitoring, and/or security, apparatus and method which
provides for the remote accessing of operation data for any one or
more of the herein-described vehicles, motor vehicles, boats,
marine vessels, airplanes, aircraft, and/or recreational vehicles,
by any appropriate computer and/or communication device, in a
network environment.
[0138] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
control, monitoring, and/or security, apparatus and method which
provides for the remote accessing, obtaining, or storage, of
operation data for any one or more of the herein-described
vehicles, motor vehicles, boats, marine vessels, airplanes,
aircraft, and/or recreational vehicles, by any appropriate computer
and/or communication device, in a network environment.
[0139] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
control, monitoring, and/or security, apparatus and method which
provides for the remote accessing, obtaining, or storage, of
operation data for any one or more of the herein-described
residential premises and/or commercial premises.
[0140] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will
be apparent to those individuals skilled in the art upon a review
of the Description Of The Preferred Embodiment taken in conjunction
with the Drawings which follow.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0141] In the Drawings:
[0142] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of the apparatus which is
the subject of the present invention;
[0143] FIG. 2 illustrates the vehicle position and locating device
of FIG. 1 illustrating the main components thereof in block diagram
form;
[0144] FIG. 3 illustrates the vehicle position and locating system
receiver of FIG. 1 illustrating the components thereof in block
diagram form;
[0145] FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram of a computer system
which is utilized in another preferred embodiment of FIG. 1 for
performing the functions of, and for, the transmitter and the
vehicle position and locating system receiver of the apparatus of
the present invention;
[0146] FIG. 5A illustrates the apparatus of FIG. 1 wherein the
computer of FIG. 4 is utilized in another preferred embodiment in
order to replace and to perform the functions of the transmitter
and the vehicle position and locating system receiver of the
apparatus of the present invention.
[0147] FIG. 5B illustrates another preferred embodiment of the
apparatus of the present invention wherein the apparatus is
utilized in conjunction with an on-line service and/or on, or over,
the Internet and/or the World Wide Web;
[0148] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate flow diagrams illustrating the
preferred embodiment operational steps and/or sequences of
operation of the apparatus and the method of the present
invention;
[0149] FIG. 7 illustrates the preferred embodiment operation, in
flow diagram form, of the vehicle position and locating device
which is utilized in the apparatus of the present invention;
[0150] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate the preferred embodiment
operation, in flow diagram form, of the vehicle position system
receiver which is utilized in the apparatus of the present
invention;
[0151] FIG. 9 illustrates another preferred embodiment of the
present invention wherein an arming device and an activation device
are utilized in conjunction with, and for, an automatic activation
of the apparatus of the present invention;
[0152] FIG. 10 illustrates another preferred embodiment of the
vehicle position and locating device which includes a plurality of
global positioning devices and corresponding global positioning
receivers;
[0153] FIG. 11A illustrates another preferred embodiment of the
present invention wherein the apparatus is utilized in conjunction
with a central security office or agency;
[0154] FIG. 11B illustrates yet another preferred embodiment of the
present invention wherein the apparatus of FIG. 11A is utilized in
conjunction with an on-line service and/or on, or over, the
Internet and/or the World Wide Web.
[0155] FIG. 12 illustrates another preferred embodiment of the
present invention, wherein the apparatus and method is utilized in
conjunction with a boat;
[0156] FIG. 13 illustrates another preferred embodiment of the
present invention, wherein the apparatus and method is utilized in
conjunction with an airplane;
[0157] FIG. 14 illustrates another preferred embodiment of the
present invention wherein the apparatus is utilized in conjunction
with a snowmobile;
[0158] FIG. 15 illustrates another preferred embodiment of the
present invention wherein the apparatus and method is utilized in
conjunction with a home or residential premises control system;
and
[0159] FIG. 16 illustrates another preferred embodiment of the
present invention wherein the apparatus and method is utilized in
conjunction with a commercial office and/or premises control
system.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0160] The present invention pertains to a control, monitoring,
and/or security, apparatus and method and, in particular, to a
control, monitoring and/or security apparatus and method for
exercising and/or providing control, monitoring and/or security,
vehicles, motor vehicles, marine vessels and vehicles, aircraft,
recreational vehicles, residential premises, commercial premises,
structures and/or equipment, in a network environment.
[0161] The terms "individual", "owner", "user", "operator",
"occupant", and/or the plural of same, refer to any individual,
individuals, owner, owners, user, users, operator, operators,
occupant, and/or occupants, of any of the herein-described vehicle,
boats, marine vessels, airplanes, aircraft, residential premises,
commercial premises, and/or any of the systems, subsystems,
devices, components thereof, as well as refer to any of the
individuals, entities, parties, and/or users, of the apparatus
and/or method of the present invention and/or any of the computers,
processing devices, and/or communication devices, described herein
as being utilized in conjunction with the preset invention and/or
which form a component of the present invention. Further, any of
the terms "individual", "owner", "user", "operator", "occupant",
and/or the plural of same, can be used interchangeably.
[0162] Applicant hereby incorporates by reference herein the
subject matter and teachings of U.S. Provisional Patent Application
Ser. No. 60/187,735. Applicant also hereby incorporates by
reference herein the subject matter and teachings of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/190,379. Applicant
hereby incorporates by reference herein the subject matter and
teachings of U.S. Pat. No. 5,917,405. Applicant also incorporates
by reference herein the subject matter and teachings of U.S. Pat.
No. 5,513,244.
[0163] FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of the apparatus which is
the subject of the present invention and which is denoted generally
by the reference numeral 1. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the apparatus
1 includes a transmitter system 2, for transmitting an electrical,
an electronic, an electromagnetic or other suitable signal, upon an
activation by a motor vehicle owner or authorized user or operator,
hereinafter referred to collectively as the "authorized user or
operator".
[0164] While the foregoing description of the preferred embodiment
is directed to a motor vehicle and, in particular, to an
automobile, the term "motor vehicle" includes, but is not limited
to, automobiles, trucks, buses, school buses, trains, subway
trains, mass transportation vehicles, tractor trailers,
construction equipment, equipment, mobile structures, mobile and/or
moveable industrial and/or commercial and/or equipment, structures
and/or work platforms, mining equipment, drilling equipment,
drilling platforms, farm equipment, commercial vehicles,
recreational vehicles, motorcycles, recreational vehicles, motor
and/or mobile homes, etc. Any of the above noted vehicles may be
manned and/or unmanned and may also include law enforcement and/or
military vehicles and/or equipment. The present invention may also
be utilized in marine vehicles and/or vessels, boats, ships,
aircraft, airplanes, jets, submersible and/or underwater vehicles
and/or vessels, space vehicles and/or vessels and satellites, all
of which may be manned and/or unmanned. The present invention may
also be employed in conjunction with gasoline, diesel, alternate
fuel and/or electrically powered and/or propelled vehicles.
[0165] In the preferred embodiment, the transmitter system 2
consists of a user interface device 2A and a transmitting device or
transmitter 2B. The transmitter 2 also has a receiver 2C for
receiving signals as will be described below. In this regard, the
transmitter/receiver combination may also be implemented by
utilizing a transceiver. The user interface device 2A provides the
means by which the authorized user or operator may access or
activate the apparatus 1, as well as the means by which the
authorized user or operator may enter access and/or command codes
into the transmitter system 2. The transmitter 2B transmits a
signal, in response to the authorized user or operator accessing or
activating the apparatus 1. The user interface device 2A also
includes a device (not shown) for providing an audio and/or a video
indication of system operation and/or status as well as providing
information indicative of data received by the receiver 2C.
[0166] The transmitter system 2 is a remote system, which is not
physically connected to the remainder of the apparatus 1. Further,
the transmitter system 2, in the preferred embodiment, is not
located in the motor vehicle, but rather, is located external from,
and separate and apart from, the motor vehicle. In the preferred
embodiment, the transmitter system 2 or transceiver, is designed to
be capable of transmitting signals over long distances, i.e. tens,
hundreds, and/or thousands of miles or farther. The transmitter
system 2 or transceiver, in the preferred embodiment, is also
capable of transmitting a multitude of signals. As will be
described below, this capability to transmit a multitude of signals
allows for the transmission of a variety of command codes, and of
multiple command codes, to the apparatus 1, which in turn, provides
for an apparatus which may provide for a multitude of responses in
the control and operation thereof.
[0167] In the preferred embodiment, the transmitter system 2 or
transceiver is a touch tone telephone which may be a line-connected
telephone, a cordless telephone and/or a cellular or mobile
telephone. As described hereinafter, the transmitter system 2 may
also be a home and/or a personal computer, having associated
telecommunication devices or other suitable peripheral device(s)
such as a modem and/or a fax/modem, or other personal communication
device, which can operate over an appropriate telecommunications
system, and/or other suitable communications systems, including
radio signal, optical, satellite and/or other communications
systems. The communications system utilized may operate anywhere in
the electromagnetic and/or radio spectrum. In this regard, personal
communication service (PCS) systems and devices, including
stationary, portable and/or hand-held devices, may also be
utilized. Digital signal communications devices and systems may
also be utilized. Interactive and/or digital televisions, personal
communication devices, personal communication services (PCS)
devices, personal digital assistants, cellular telephones, display
telephones, video telephones, display cellular telephones and
electronically equipped watches and/or other devices and/or effects
or accessories may also be utilized for user interactive and/or
display or output applications and/or functions.
[0168] Applicant hereby incorporates by reference herein the
subject matter of U.S. Pat. No. 5,081,667 which teaches a system
for integrating a cellular telephone with a vehicle security
system. Applicant also hereby incorporates by reference herein the
subject matter of U.S. Pat. No. 5,276,728 which teaches a remotely
activated automobile disabling system. Applicant further hereby
incorporates by reference herein the subject matter of U.S. Pat.
No. 5,113,427 which teaches a radio signal responsive vehicle
device control system, and further, use of a personal paging unit
in a paging system for receiving a radio signal. Applicant also
hereby incorporates by reference herein the subject matter of U.S.
Pat. No. 4,882,746, which teaches a cordless telephone system.
Applicant further hereby incorporates by reference herein the
subject matter of U.S. Pat. No. 5,138,649 which teaches a portable
telephone handset with remote control. Applicant further hereby
incorporates by reference herein the subject matter of U.S. Pat.
No. 5,195,126 which teaches an emergency alert and security
apparatus and method.
[0169] Referring once again to FIG. 1, the apparatus 1 also
includes a receiver 3, for receiving the signals which are
transmitted by the transmitter system 2. The receiver 3 may be any
receiver which is capable of receiving the remote electrical,
electronic, electromagnetic, and/or other signals, which may be
transmitted by the transmitter system 2. In the preferred
embodiment, the receiver 3 is also capable of receiving any of a
wide variety of signals, and/or multitude of signals, which may be
transmitted by the transmitter system 2.
[0170] The transmitter system 2/receiver 3 combination, of the
apparatus 1 is implemented, in the preferred embodiment, by a
telephone/telephone beeper or pager system which systems and
related techniques are well known in the telecommunications art. In
such a telephone/telephone beeper or pager system, the transmitter
2 can be any touch-tone telephone which provides a user interface,
in the form of the touch-tone keypad or buttons, or the like, for
entering a data code or sequence, and which may provide a means by
which to transmit a signal, in response to the entered data, to an
appropriate receiver device which is typically a telephone beeper
or pager which may be serviced by an appropriate communications
system or service.
[0171] The receiver 3 or beeper or pager, or the communication
system which services same, in turn, provides an indication, in the
form of a signal transmission, back to the transmitter 2 and, in
particular, to the transmitter receiver 2C, which signifies that a
signal has been received by the apparatus 1. The receiver 3 also
generates data which is indicative of the signal, or a portion
thereof, which has been received. In this regard, in the preferred
embodiment, the receiver 3 is provided with its own transmitter 3A,
or the communication system or service which services the receiver
3 may provide a transmitter (not shown) as may be the case with
certain pager systems, such as and including two-way pager systems,
for transmitting signals back to the transmitter system 2. The
receiver 3/transmitter 3A combination, in appropriate cases, may be
replaced with and/or implemented by a transceiver. The receiver 3
and/or receiver 3/transmitter 3A combination or transceiver may
also be a cellular and/or mobile telephone which can receive and
transmit signals at and from a mobile location.
[0172] It should be noted that the telephone/telephone beeper or
pager system, including two-way pager systems, may be replaced with
any other type of transmitter/receiver combination, electronic or
otherwise, which provides for the transmission and reception of a
multitude of remote electrical, electronic, electromagnetic, and/or
other suitable signals, over long distances and/or in a mobile
and/or a wireless communications environment. As noted above, a
personal computer system which may be adapted to such operation, or
a personal communication device(s) or personal communication
services (PCS) device(s) may also be utilized for, or in, any of
the transmitter/receiver system combinations described herein. Two
way pagers may also be utilized for any, or in any, of the
transmitter/receiver system combinations described herein.
[0173] In the preferred embodiment, upon receiving the signal, the
receiver 3, generates a distinct signal which may be a digital, an
electrical, an electronic and/or an electromagnetic or other
suitable signal, which signal is indicative of the signal
transmitted from the transmitter 2B of the transmitter system 2 and
received by the receiver 3.
[0174] At least a portion of the signal transmitted from the
transmitter system 2 to the receiver 3 may include a valid access
code, which accesses the receiver 3, and the apparatus 1, which
access code serves to provide for security measures which may be
taken in conjunction with the use of the apparatus 1.
[0175] The apparatus 1 also includes a controller or a CPU 4 (CPU)
4, which is electrically connected with the receiver 3 and
transmitter 3A and which receives, or reads, whichever the case may
be, the digital signal or signals, or portions thereof, which are
received by the receiver 3 and/or generated by the receiver 3 in
response to the received signal. The CPU 4 may be any type of
digital processing device. In the preferred embodiment, the CPU 4
is implemented by a microprocessor. The CPU 4 also has associated
therewith a read only memory device (ROM) 5 and a random access
memory device (RAM) 6 for storing data which is utilized by the
apparatus 1. The data which is received by the receiver 3 is
processed by the apparatus 1 in the manner described below.
[0176] The use of a microprocessor as the CPU 4 provides for
versatility in apparatus programmability, as well as facilitates an
apparatus which can be made as small in size as possible. The CPU 4
may also be implemented by a micro-computer, a mini-computer, or
any other digital computer device or system, along with the
requisite associated memory devices and other necessary and/or
selected peripheral devices. The functions of the CPU 4 may also be
performed by appropriately integrating the apparatus 1 with the
electronic command computer of the vehicle.
[0177] It should be noted that the provision of an apparatus 1,
which is as small in size as possible, allows for an apparatus
which may be more easily installed and concealed in the vehicle, so
as to prevent its being located and defeated by a car thief. It is
also envisioned that the apparatus 1 may be installed in the motor
vehicle during the vehicle's manufacture and/or assembly process so
as to insure that it will not be easily detectable or accessible by
a car thief. The more cancelable the apparatus, the less likelihood
that it could be located and defeated. It is envisioned that the
apparatus 1 and any associated circuitry and/or wiring, may be
designed into the motor vehicle so as to be inaccessible to a
thief.
[0178] The CPU 4 also has a transmitter 4A associated therewith for
transmitting signals to the transmitter system 2 or transceiver. In
this manner, the CPU 4 of the apparatus 1 may respond to a user
data transmission, command, or inquiry with a transmitted signal
which may include digital as well as other data and may also
include electronically synthesized voice data which is generated by
a voice synthesizer 4B which is connected to the CPU 4 and the
transmitter 4A as shown in FIG. 1. The transmitter 4A and optional
voice synthesizer 4B may be utilized so as to provide information
to an authorized user or operator which may include, but not be
limited to, apparatus status, vehicle operation status, and the
status of each vehicle system, equipment and/or device which is
utilized in conjunction with the apparatus as well as vehicle
position data.
[0179] The CPU 4 is electrically connected and/or linked to the
motor vehicle ignition system 7, which is located externally from
the apparatus 1. The CPU 4 may or may not be connected and/or
linked with the vehicle ignition system 7 through an ignition
system interface 8 which is also shown in FIG. 1. The CPU 4 may
transmit signals to, as well as receive signals from, the vehicle
ignition system 7. In this manner, the CPU 4 and the vehicle
ignition system 7, may exchange information between each other. In
this manner, the CPU 4, upon receiving an appropriate signal from
the receiver 3, and upon the completion of the requisite data
processing routine, which will be described below, may issue an
electrical, an electronic, and/or any other suitable signal,
including a digital command signal, to the vehicle ignition system
7. This electrical, electronic and/or other suitable signal or
digital command signal may be one which will disable the vehicle
ignition system 7 or one which will re-enable or reset the vehicle
ignition system 7. The CPU 4 may also interrogate the ignition
system 7 and/or receive data from the ignition system 7 which is
indicative of ignition system status (i.e., whether the ignition
system 7 is on or off).
[0180] In the preferred embodiment, the CPU 4 is also electrically
connected and/or linked to the motor vehicle fuel pump system 9
which is also located externally from the apparatus 1. The CPU 4
may or may not be connected with the vehicle fuel pump system 9
through a fuel pump system interface 10 which is also shown in FIG.
1. In the case of an electrical or an electronic fuel pump system,
the CPU 4 may provide an electrical, an electronic, and/or other
suitable signal, including a digital signal, which will disable,
re-enable, or reset the vehicle fuel pump system 9.
[0181] In the case of a mechanical fuel pump system, the CPU 4 may
provide an electrical, electronic, and/or other suitable signal,
including a digital signal, which will disable or re-enable an
electrical valve system, which may be used to control the operation
of the mechanical fuel pump system. Whichever the case may be, the
CPU 4 will be capable of issuing an electrical, electronic and/or
other suitable signal, including a digital signal, to disable, to
re-enable, or to reset the vehicle fuel pump system 9. The CPU 4
may also interrogate and/or receive data from the fuel pump system
9 which is indicative of fuel pump system status (i.e., whether the
fuel pump system 9 is on or off). The CPU 4 may also be
electrically connected and/or linked to an appropriate device (not
shown) for controlling the operation of a vehicle exhaust system
device. The vehicle exhaust system device may be a device for
blocking the flow of exhaust gases through the exhaust system.
[0182] The CPU 4, in the preferred embodiment, is also electrically
connected and/or linked to at least one or more of a vehicle
equipment system or systems 11. The vehicle equipment system or
systems 11 are located externally from the apparatus 1 and may or
may not be connected and/or linked to the CPU 4, via a vehicle
equipment system or systems interface 12 which may or may not be
required for each one of the variety or multitude of the vehicle
equipment systems which may be utilized in conjunction with the
apparatus.
[0183] The vehicle equipment system or systems 11 may include a
loud siren or alarm, which may be located in the passenger
compartment of the motor vehicle and, which may produce a loud
piercing sound so as to make it unbearable for an intruder to
remain inside the motor vehicle passenger compartment. The vehicle
equipment system 11 may also include an external siren or alarm,
which may produce a loud piercing sound, which may be utilized to
draw attention to the motor vehicle. The vehicle equipment system
11 may also include a horn, which may blare continuously or
intermittently, so as to also draw attention to the motor vehicle.
The vehicle equipment system(s) 11 may also include the vehicle
external light systems(s), which may include the vehicle head
lights, tail lights or flashers, which may be constantly
illuminated or which may blink on and off repeatedly so as to draw
attention to the motor vehicle.
[0184] The vehicle equipment system(s) 11 may also include a power
door lock system, for securing the vehicle passenger compartment so
as to prevent an entry thereunto or an exit therefrom. In addition,
the vehicle equipment system(s) 11 may include a hood locking
system, such as a mechanical hood locking system, for locking the
vehicle hood so as to prevent an unauthorized access into the
vehicle engine compartment so as to prevent any tampering with the
apparatus 1 or with other systems and/or components of the motor
vehicle. The vehicle equipment system(s) 11 can also include
"smart" windows which turn opaque and/or darker depending upon
interior lighting.
[0185] The vehicle equipment system(s) 11 may also include any one
or more of the widely known vehicle anti-theft systems and may also
include a vehicle recovery system or device, including a homing
and/or a tracking device or system, each of which system(s) may be
activated and/or controlled by the apparatus 1 of the present
invention.
[0186] The vehicle equipment system(s) 11 may also include video
recording and/or photographing equipment, which may include video
recording device(s) and/or a camera(s), such as those utilized in
conjunction with personal computers, televisions, digital
televisions, interactive televisions, display telephones, video
telephones, and/or other communication devices, including personal
communication devices, or a still picture camera(s). The video
recording device(s) or camera(s) may be digital recording devices
or cameras or other suitable devices or cameras, including typical
video recording devices or cameras. The video recording device(s)
or camera(s), in a preferred embodiment, has associated therewith a
transceiver or transmitter/receiver system for transmitting video
images recorded by the video recording device(s) or camera(s) to
the user or operator and for receiving signals such as, for
example, control signals, by which the user or operator may
exercise control over the video recording device(s) or
camera(s).
[0187] The video recording device(s) or camera(s) may be located at
any location on the interior of the vehicle such as, for example,
in the dashboard of the vehicle so that the user or operator, or
any other authorized individual, may observe and/or photograph the
driver of the vehicle, or the occupants and/or cargo of the
vehicle. The video recording(s) or camera(s) may also be located on
the vehicle exterior. The video recording device(s) or camera(s)
may have wide angles for maximum angular viewing and may also be
pivotable and/or movable. The video device(s) or camera(s) can be
moveable along a track or other guiding device or element so that
the respective video recording device or camera can be moved along
the vehicle interior or exterior. The video recording device(s) or
camera(s) may record and/or transmit the recorded video and/or the
picture(s) in real time and/or live. The video recording device(s)
or camera(s) may also be equipped with a storage medium, for
storing the recorded video and/or picture(s), and a transmitter or
transceiver for transmitting the stored video and/or picture(s) to
the user or operator at a later time. In this manner, real-time, as
well as deferred, video and/or picture(s) transmissions may be
provided.
[0188] The vehicle equipment system(s) 11 may also include audio
recording equipment, which may include audio recording device(s)
such as microphones and/or tape recorders, such as those utilized
in conjunction with personal computers, televisions, digital
televisions, interactive televisions, telephones, cellular
telephones, display telephones, video telephones, and/or other
communication devices, including personal communication devices.
The audio recording device(s) may be digital audio recording
devices or other suitable audio devices including typical audio
recording devices. The audio recording device(s), in a preferred
embodiment, has associated therewith a transceiver or
transmitter/receiver system for transmitting the recorded audio to
the user or operator and for receiving signals such as, for
example, control signals, by which the user or operator may
exercise control over the audio recording device(s).
[0189] The audio recording device(s) may be located at any location
on the interior and/or exterior of the vehicle so that the user or
operator, or any other authorized individual, may hear what is
transpiring, and/or what has transpired, inside and/or outside the
vehicle. The audio recording device(s) may also be pivotable and/or
movable. The audio recording device(s) microphone(s) can be
moveable along a track or other guiding device or element so that
the respective audio recording device or microphone can be moved
along the vehicle interior or exterior. The audio recording
device(s) may record and/or transmit the recorded audio in real
time and/or live. The audio recording device(s) may also be
equipped with a storage medium, for storing the recorded audio, and
a transmitter or transceiver for transmitting the stored audio at a
later time. In this manner, real-time as well as deferred audio
transmissions may be provided.
[0190] The vehicle equipment system(s) 11 may also include an
intercom system or device or telephone, cellular, digital or
otherwise, for providing a means by which to allow the user or
operator, or other authorized operator, to communicate with the
operator and/or occupants of the vehicle over a designated
communication line. The vehicle equipment system 11 can also
include video conferencing devices and/or equipment for enabling
the vehicle occupants and/or individuals inside the vehicle,
outside the vehicle, and/or in the vicinity of the vehicle, to
engage in and/or partake in video conferences and/or video
conferencing with others via a communication network.
[0191] The vehicle equipment system(s) 11 can also include the
vehicle battery or batteries, vehicle fuel cell or fuel cells,
battery monitoring equipment, battery charge level, fuel cell
output, fuel cell fuel supply, fuel cell temperature measuring
device, fuel cell by-product (i.e. water or other by-product, heat,
etc.) measuring device, fuel cell output measuring device (i.e.
voltmeter, ammeter, current measure, power meter, etc.), an air bag
deployment device, an air bag deployment detection device, a
vehicle dashboard display device, a gyroscope for measuring vehicle
pitch, roll, yaw, or attitude, a gyrocompass for measuring
direction of travel, a vehicle data recorder and/or a vehicle
operation data recorder, a navigation system, a navigation control
and/or monitoring system, an automatic pilot, a radar system, a
vehicle voice recorder, a vehicle voice recorder control and/or
monitoring device, an emergency oxygen control and/or monitoring
device, an emergency oxygen deployment detection device, an air bag
deployment device, an air bag deployment detection device, and/or a
vehicle control console display device.
[0192] The vehicle equipment system(s) 11 may also include
monitoring device(s) for reading and/or monitoring the status
and/or condition of any of the vehicle fuel supply, water and/or
coolant supply, electrical generator and/or alternator operation,
battery charge level, fuel cell electrical power output, fuel cell
fuel supply level, fuel cell operating temperature, fuel cell
by-product output level, and/or engine temperature level and/or any
other vehicle operation and/or system function and/or vehicle
equipment system(s) operating status and/or condition. The
monitoring device(s), in a preferred embodiment, has associated
therewith a transceiver or transmitter/receiver system for
transmitting data and/or information recorded and/or read by the
monitoring device(s) to the user or operator and for receiving
signals such as, for example, control signals, by which the user or
operator may exercise control over the monitoring device(s).
[0193] The vehicle equipment system(s) 11 may also include
communication devices, such as two-way radios, radios, televisions,
navigational devices and/or equipment, fire extinguishing
equipment, radar devices and equipment, emergency and/or distress
signal equipment, and any electrical, electronic and/or otherwise
activated appliances and/or equipment which may be utilized in a
vehicle. Appliances may include household appliances such as
refrigerators, stoves, air conditioners, ovens, microwave ovens,
lighting systems, etc. The vehicle equipment system(s) 11 may also
include electrical and/or electronically controlled dead bolt
locking devices for use on doors, windows, hood, trunk and/or in
conjunction with any other opening components and/or components for
gaining access to various locations on and/or in, and/or any
systems, devices, and/or components of, the vehicle.
[0194] The vehicle equipment system(s) 11 can also include
transponders, communication transponders, navigation transponders,
and/or beacons.
[0195] The vehicle equipment system(s) 11 may also include a wheel
and/or brake locking device or mechanism. The vehicle equipment
systems may also include hydraulic and/or pneumatic equipment
and/or other equipment, including winches, etc, which may be
remotely activated as described herein. The vehicle equipment
system(s) 11 may also include vehicle communication devices
including, but not limited to radios, televisions and entertainment
devices, two-way radios, cellular telephones and equipment, etc.
The vehicle equipment system(s) 11 may also include systems for
detecting failures in any of the above, or any other, equipment
systems and report such failure(s) to the user or operator whether
he or she is operating the vehicle or is not in the vehicle and/or
for reporting such failures to a central office.
[0196] The vehicle equipment system(s) 11 can also include the
vehicle command computer which is utilized to control and/or to the
various electronic, electrical, mechanical, and/or
electromechanical systems, components, devices, of the vehicle. The
command computer can control and monitor any of the systems,
components, and/or devices, of the vehicle, including, but not
limited to, the ignition system, the fuel system, fuel injection
system, electrical systems for ignition, lights, horn, door locks,
exhaust system, windows, fuel pump, oil pump, engine timing device,
battery, fuel cells, fuel supply device, video recording equipment,
audio recording equipment, vehicle integrated positioning device,
tire pressure indicator, and/or any other system, device, or
component which can be controlled and/or monitored by the command
computer.
[0197] The command computer can transmit control signals and/or
status request signals to any of the herein-described vehicle
systems, components and/or devices so as to respectively control
and/or monitor the operating status and/or condition of the
respective system, component and/or device. The command computer
can also receive signals from the respective systems, devices
and/or components, with said signals containing data and/or
information concerning the operating status, operating state,
and/or condition, of the respective systems, devices and/or
components. The command computer can be utilized so as to control,
monitor, and/or provide diagnostic information for any of the
vehicle systems, components, and/or devices, which are controlled
and/or monitored with the command computer.
[0198] The vehicle equipment system(s) 11 can also include wear
and/or usage indicators and/or detection devices which can be
connected with either the command computer and/or the central
processing computer and which can be utilized so as to monitor the
wear and/or usage of any of the herein-described electronic,
electrical, mechanical, and/or electromechanical, systems, devices,
and/or components.
[0199] The vehicle equipment system(s) 11 can also include
automatic control devices for controlling and/or monitoring vehicle
systems and/or devices for vehicle movement and/or motion, such as,
but not limited to, vehicle transmission system for controlling
vehicle forward and/or reverse direction of movement, vehicle
acceleration system for controlling speed of movement, vehicle
braking system for controlling vehicle braking, vehicle steering
system for steering the vehicle, and/or any other system and/or
component for controlling and/or for effecting remote-control over
the movement and/or the motion of the vehicle.
[0200] In the case of commercial, industrial, and/or farm and/or
construction equipment, drilling equipment, mining equipment,
excavating equipment, and/or other commercial equipment, the
vehicle equipment system(s) 11 may also include loading and/or
unloading mechanisms, cutting mechanisms, bailing mechanisms,
winches and any and all of the various systems and devices utilized
in conjunction with these vehicles and/or equipment.
[0201] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, the
systems, equipment systems, subsystems, devices, components, and/or
appliances, of and/or utilized in any of the respective vehicles,
motor vehicles, boats, marine vessels, airplanes, aircraft, and/or
recreational vehicles, can include and/or can utilize the teachings
and/or the subject matter of the following U.S. patents, the
subject matter and teachings of which are hereby incorporated by
reference herein and form a part of the disclosure of this patent
application: U.S. Pat. No. 6,009,356 which teaches and discloses a
wireless transducer data capture and retrieval system for aircraft;
U.S. Pat. No. 6,002,972 which teaches and discloses a method and
apparatus for measuring forces based upon differential pressure
between surfaces of an aircraft; U.S. Pat. No. 5,974,349 which
teaches and discloses remote, aircraft, global, paperless
maintenance; U.S. Pat. No. 5,969,953 which teaches and discloses a
stacked memory for flight recorders; U.S. Pat. No. 5,890,079 which
teaches and discloses a remote aircraft flight recorder and
advisory system; U.S. Pat. No. 5,845,240 which teaches and
discloses selective recall and preservation of continuously
recorder data; U.S. Pat. No. 5,841,638 which teaches and discloses
a stacked memory for flight recorders; U.S. Pat. No. 5,826,827
which teaches and discloses and air-chute safety system; U.S. Pat.
No. 5,796,612, which teaches and discloses a method for flight
parameter monitoring and control; U.S. Pat. No. 5,761,625 which
teaches and discloses reconfigurable algorithmic networks for
aircraft data management; U.S. Pat. No. 5,756,934 which teaches and
discloses U.S. Pat. No. 5,737,222 which teaches and discloses an
apparatus for measuring lift forces based upon differential
pressure between surfaces of an aircraft; U.S. Pat. No. 5,627,753
which teaches and disclose a method and apparatus for recording
data on cockpit voice recorder, U.S. Pat. No. 5,457,630 which
teaches and disclose a system for onboard lift analysis and
apparatus therefor; U.S. Pat. No. 5,331,577 which teaches and
discloses an aircraft wing position indicator; U.S. Pat. No.
5,283,643 which teaches and discloses a flight information
recording method and device for aircraft; U.S. Pat. No. 5,260,874
which teaches and discloses an aircraft flight emulation test
system; U.S. Pat. No. 5,239,468 which teaches and discloses
automated helicopter maintenance monitoring; U.S. Pat. No.
4,729,102 which teaches and discloses an aircraft data acquisition
and recording system; U.S. Pat. No. 4,682,292 which teaches and
discloses a fault tolerant flight data recorder; U.S. Pat. No.
4,660,145 which teaches and discloses a system for compressing
aircraft flight data utilizing a multilevel time format; U.S. Pat.
No. 4,660,145 which teaches and discloses a system for compressing
aircraft flight data utilizing a multilevel time format; U.S. Pat.
No. 4,656,585 which teaches and discloses an aircraft flight data
recorder data acquisition system; U.S. Pat. No. 4,644,494 which
teaches and discloses a solid state memory for aircraft flight data
recorder systems; U.S. Pat. No. 4,604,711 which teaches and
disclose an aircraft fight data display system; U.S. Pat. No.
4,470,116 which teaches and discloses a digital flight data
recording system; U.S. Pat. No. 4,409,670 which teaches and
disclose a solid-state digital flight data recorder; U.S. Pat. No.
4,378,574 which teaches and discloses a digital data recorder and
method; U.S. Pat. No. 5,719,771 which teaches and discloses a
system for mapping occurrences in a transport route; U.S. Pat. No.
4,785,404 which teaches and discloses beating and passage time
optimization computer navigation system for sailing vessels; U.S.
Pat. No. 4,775,028 which teaches and discloses a method and system
for depth sounding; U.S. Pat. No. 4,454,583 which teaches and
discloses a navigation system; U.S. Pat. No. 4,138,567 which
teaches and discloses a shipboard apparatus for measuring ocean
currents; U.S. Pat. No. 4,050,301 which teaches and discloses an
electromagnetic water current meter with synthetic direction field;
U.S. Pat. No. 5,988,645 which teaches and discloses a moving object
monitoring system; U.S. Pat. No. 5,982,048 which teaches and
discloses a procedure for connecting a status detection device of a
passive safety system for motor vehicles to a control unit; U.S.
Pat. No. 5,974,349 which teaches and discloses a remote, aircraft,
global, paperless maintenance system; U.S. Pat. No. 5,948,026 which
teaches and discloses an automotive data recorder; U.S. Pat. No.
5,917,434 which teaches and discloses an integrated taximeter/GPS
position tracking system; U.S. Pat. No. 5,897,602 which teaches and
discloses a car navigation system; U.S. Pat. No. 5,895,440 which
teaches and discloses a battery monitor and cycle status indicator;
U.S. Pat. No. 5,892,437 which teaches and discloses an on-board
brake warning device for air brake equipped vehicles; U.S. Pat. No.
5,890,079 which teaches and discloses a remote aircraft flight
recorder and advisory system; U.S. Pat. No. 5,877,707 which teaches
and discloses a GPS based seat belt monitoring system & method
for using same; U.S. Pat. No. 5,862,500 which teaches and discloses
an apparatus and method for recording motor vehicle travel
information; U.S. Pat. No. 5,815,093 which teaches and discloses a
computerized vehicle log; U.S. Pat. No. 5,896,020 which teaches and
discloses a laser based speed and accident reconstruction measuring
apparatus and method; U.S. Pat. No. 5,798,647 which teaches and
discloses a diagnostic test controller apparatus; U.S. Pat. No.
5,796,612 which teaches and discloses a method for flight parameter
monitoring and control; U.S. Pat. No. 5,791,441 which teaches and
discloses a brake failure monitoring system; U.S. Pat. No.
5,547,149 which teaches and discloses an aircraft airbag protection
apparatus and method; U.S. Pat. No. 5,526,269 which teaches and
discloses a digital operation recorder; U.S. Pat. No. 5,497,419
which teaches and discloses a method and apparatus for recording
sensor data; U.S. Pat. No. 5,446,659 which teaches and discloses a
traffic accident data recorder and traffic accident reproduction
system; U.S. Pat. No. 5,313,201 which teaches and discloses a
vehicular display system; U.S. Pat. No. 5,239,674 which teaches and
discloses a method for transferring private data transmissions from
a trucking communication system to a cellular communication; U.S.
Pat. No. 5,224,211 which teaches and discloses a method and
apparatus for non-contact extraction of on-board vehicle trip
recorders; U.S. Pat. No. 5,128,874 which teaches and discloses am
inertial navigation sensor integrated obstacle detection system;
U.S. Pat. No. 5,115,678 which teaches and discloses a method of
checking the function of a driving wheel slip control system; U.S.
Pat. No. 5,068,656 which teaches and discloses a system and method
for monitoring and reporting out-of-route mileage for long haul
trucks; U.S. Pat. No. 5,065,321 which teaches a solid state event
recorder; U.S. Pat. No. 5,058,423 which teaches and discloses a
method of checking the functioning of a driving wheel slip control
system; U.S. Pat. No. 5,058,423 which teaches and discloses a
method of checking the functioning of a driving wheel slip control
system; U.S. Pat. No. 5,056,056 which teaches and discloses a data
recorder including a recirculating non-volatile memory; U.S. Pat.
No. 4,958,454 which teaches and discloses a data recorder; U.S.
Pat. No. 4,931,793 which teaches and discloses a system for
providing a warning when vehicles approach a common collision
point; U.S. Pat. No. 4,853,850 which teaches and discloses a
vehicle computer diagnostic interface apparatus; U.S. Pat. No.
4,835,546 which teaches and discloses an electronic data recorder
apparatus and method; U.S. Pat. No. 4,775,028 which teaches and
discloses a method and system for depth sounding; U.S. Pat. No.
4,677,429 which teaches and discloses a vehicle information
on-board computer; U.S. Pat. No. 4,673,937 which teaches and
discloses an automotive collision avoidance and/or air bag
deployment radar; U.S. Pat. No. 4,638,289 which teaches and
discloses an accident data recorder; U.S. Pat. No. 4,602,127 which
teaches and discloses a diagnostic data recorder; U.S. Pat. No.
4,454,583 which teaches and discloses a navigation system; U.S.
Pat. No. 4,337,651 which teaches and discloses an apparatus for
measuring and indicating braking vehicle speeds; U.S. Pat. No.
4,263,945 which teaches and discloses an automatic fuel dispensing
control system; U.S. Pat. No. 4,258,421 which teaches and discloses
a vehicle monitoring and recording system; U.S. Pat. No. 4,236,215
which teaches and discloses a vehicular data handling and control
system; U.S. Pat. No. 4,201,908 which teaches a measurement and
recording apparatus and system; U.S. Pat. No. 4,156,286 which
teaches and discloses a solid state data recorder; and U.S. Pat.
No. 4,137,553 which teaches and discloses a method and apparatus
for magnetically recording vehicle running conditions.
[0202] As noted above, the use of any one or more of the vehicle
equipment system or systems 11, and their associated interface
devices 12, may be optional and may further include any other
systems and/or devices which may, or are, utilized in and/or in
conjunction with any of the above noted or envisioned vehicles. The
vehicle equipment system(s) 11, especially when the apparatus is
utilized in conjunction with law enforcement and/or military
vehicles, may also include guns and/or weapon systems and/or self
defense systems and electronic warfare systems.
[0203] The vehicle equipment system or systems 11 receives signals
from the CPU 4, which signals serve to activate or de-activate, or
vice versa, whichever the case may be, the respective vehicle
equipment system(s) 11 which are utilized in conjunction with the
apparatus 1. The vehicle equipment system(s) 11 may also include
any other suitable vehicle system or equipment, device or feature
which may be utilized to draw attention to the motor vehicle and/or
in some other way impede the vehicle theft. It should be noted that
any of the interface devices 8, 10 and 12 may include any of the
requisite interfacing circuitry which may be necessary to
facilitate CPU 4 control over the respective systems which may be
utilized.
[0204] The apparatus 1 also includes a vehicle position and
locating device 13 which may be utilized in order to determine the
position and/or the location of the vehicle. The vehicle position
and locating device 13 can be utilized so as to determine the
position of the vehicle anywhere in the world and provide for the
transmission of vehicle position and/or location data to any
appropriate system receiver so that the vehicle may be located
and/or tracked and recovered. In the preferred embodiment, the
vehicle position and locating device 13 includes and utilizes a
global positioning device and an associated transmitter for
transmitting position and/or location data to the authorized user
or operator and/or to an authorized office or agency authorized to
receive and/or to monitor such data transmissions. Applicant hereby
incorporates by reference herein the subject matter and teachings
of U.S. Pat. No. 5,959,577 which discloses a method and structure
for distribution of travel information using network.
[0205] The apparatus 1 also includes a vehicle position and
locating system receiver 14, which may be employed by the
authorized user or operator and/or by the authorized office or
agency, for receiving and/or processing the data which is
transmitted from the vehicle position and locating device 13 as
will be described in more detail hereinbelow. The apparatus 1 may
also comprise a corresponding user interface device (not shown) for
use in conjunction with the vehicle position locating system.
[0206] While the preferred embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 1,
describes certain connections between various components and/or
devices of the apparatus as being made by a direct and/or a wired
electrical connection, it is noted that any direct and/or wired
electrical connection(s) between any of the components and/or
devices described herein, may be replaced with wireless devices,
wireless communication devices, equipment, links and/or linkups,
along with their respective and associated technologies and/or
devices, which wireless devices and technologies are known and the
teachings of which are incorporated by reference herein.
[0207] FIG. 2 illustrates the vehicle position and locating device
13 of FIG. 1 illustrating the main components thereof in block
diagram form. The vehicle position and locating device 13, in the
preferred embodiment, includes a positioning system computer 21 and
a global positioning device 22 with associated global positioning
system receiver 23. The positioning system computer 21 includes a
CPU 4 (CPU) (not shown) and associated read only memory (ROM)
device (not shown) and random access memory (RAM) device (not
shown).
[0208] The vehicle position and locating device 13 also includes a
position data transmitter 24, for transmitting the vehicle position
and/or location data to the vehicle position system receiver 14.
The vehicle position and locating device 13 also includes a data
base 25 which contains digital and/or digitized map data, which can
be utilized to determine the geographical position of the vehicle
from the calculated "raw" position data obtained from the global
positioning device 22. In this regard, vehicle location on a map
and/or street location may be obtained.
[0209] As will be described in more detail below, the positioning
system computer 21 controls the operation of the vehicle position
and locating device 13, including the operation of the global
positioning device 22. The global positioning system receiver 23
receives the necessary signals from the global positioning
satellites and/or satellite system(s) which are located in orbit
above and around the earth. The signals which are received by the
receiver 23 are processed by the global positioning device 22, in a
manner which is well-known to those skilled in the global
positioning art. Once the vehicle position data or "raw" data is
calculated, the data is transmitted to, or read by, the positioning
system computer 21.
[0210] Vehicle position and/or location data can then be
transmitted to the vehicle position system receiver 14 which may be
located at, or accessible to, the authorized user or operator
and/or at the location of an authorized office or agency, such as
at a central security office or agency or local or regional law
enforcement office or agency, which is duly authorized to receive
the vehicle position and/or location data for the vehicle.
[0211] Vehicle position and/or location data is transmitted by the
transmitter 24 which, in the preferred embodiment, is a radio
signal transmitter or a broadcast transmitter. The transmitter 24
may also be a cellular or mobile telephone or wireless or other
communication device which is programmed to call and transmit the
data to the vehicle position system receiver 14. The transmitter 24
may also be a digital signal transmitter or any other suitable
transmitter. The global positioning data could also be obtained by
the user or operator by directly "calling" the system receiver 14
and/or the CPU 4 of the apparatus 1.
[0212] In the preferred embodiment, the transmitter 24 includes a
radio signal transmitter for transmitting vehicle position and/or
location data to the vehicle position system receiver 14, which may
be at a location of the authorized user or operator and/or at a
central security office or agency or at a local or regional law
enforcement office or agency as will be described in more detail
hereinbelow. In this regard, the vehicle position system receiver
14 includes a radio signal receiver which is tuned to receive the
signals which are transmitted by the transmitter 24. If the
transmitter 24 is a cellular or mobile telephone or other personal
communication device, the system receiver 14 could be equipped with
an associated cellular or mobile telephone or personal
communication device or other suitable device, which can be used in
conjunction with the cellular or mobile telephone transmitter.
Digital communication transmitter/receiver combinations and/or
transceivers may also be utilized.
[0213] The vehicle position and locating device 13 may also have
its operation programmed so as to perform updated global
positioning calculations, continuously, intermittently, at regular
intervals and/or in any other suitable manner, so as to provide for
a tracking of a vehicle movement. The vehicle positioning system
computer 21, in the preferred embodiment, contains digital and/or
digitized map data stored in database 25 for ascertaining the
geographical position of the vehicle from the calculated global
positioning data ("raw" data) which is calculated by the global
positioning device 22. In this manner, the calculated global
positioning data, and/or processed geographical position data, can
be provided for ascertaining vehicle position and/or location and,
if appropriate, for ascertaining vehicle movement such as by
monitoring and/or tracking vehicle position as it is updated.
[0214] The vehicle position system receiver 14 may be equipped with
an appropriate computer system which also includes a digital and/or
digitized map database for determining geographical location (i.e.
map location, street location, or any other data which may be
correlated and/or processed with the positioning data, etc.), from
the received global positioning data, at the location of the
receiver 14. The system receiver 14 may also be equipped with an
alphanumeric pager device which can simply receive the position
data and/or the geographical position data from an appropriately
designed transmitter 24.
[0215] FIG. 3 illustrates the vehicle position and locating system
receiver 14 of FIG. 1 illustrating the components thereof in block
diagram form. In FIG. 3, the system receiver 14 includes a receiver
30 for receiving the data transmitted by the transmitter 24 of the
vehicle position and locating device 13. In the preferred
embodiment, the receiver 30 may be a radio signal receiver, a
telephone, telecommunication and/or other system receiver,
depending upon the type of transmitter which utilized for the
transmitter 24. It is also important to note that the receiver 30
may be a personal communication system or personal communication
services (PCS) receiver or device. The receiver 30 may also be a
satellite dish receiver or a digital signal receiver.
[0216] The vehicle position and locating system receiver 14 also
includes a computer 31 for controlling the operation of the system
receiver 14. The positioning system receiver computer 31 includes a
CPU 4 (CPU) (not shown) and associated read only memory (ROM)
device(s) (not shown) and random access memory (RAM) device(s) (not
shown). The computer 31 is connected to the receiver 30 for
receiving and/or for reading the vehicle position and/or location
data which is transmitted by the transmitter 24 and received by the
receiver 30.
[0217] The system receiver 14 also includes a user interface device
32, which may include a keyboard or a pointing device such as a
mouse, a display device 33 such as a display monitor, an output
device 34 such as a printer and a database 35 such as a data base
containing digital and/or digitized map data for use in determining
geographical position of a vehicle from the "raw" position data.
The system receiver 14 may also comprise a transmitter 36 for
sending data and/or signals to the vehicle position and locating
device 13 and/or for transmitting signals to the CPU 4 and/or to
the transmitter receiver 2C.
[0218] The system receiver 14 may also be implemented by utilizing
a home and/or a personal computer which may be utilized with an
associated receiver 30 or equivalent peripheral device(s). In the
case of a home and/or a personal computer, the data received from
the vehicle position and locating device 13 may be input into the
computer, from the receiver 30, by any one of the well known
methods and techniques for inputting data into a home and/or a
personal computer from such an appropriate peripheral device(s). In
cases wherein a telephone signal and/or a personal communication
device or personal communication services (PCS) devices are
utilized, a fax/modem or other suitable device may be utilized to
send, and/or to receive, data to, and from, the vehicle position
and locating device 13. A television, appropriately equipped to
receive and/or to transmit signals may also be utilized. It is also
envisioned that digital televisions, interactive televisions,
personal communications devices, personal communications services
(PCS) devices, personal digital assistants, display telephones,
electronically equipped watches, cellular telephones and/or display
cellular telephones may also be utilized.
[0219] It is also important to note that the transmitter system 2
or transceiver and the vehicle position and locating system
receiver 14 may be implemented by utilizing, and therefore replaced
by, a home and/or a personal computer having the configuration
illustrated in FIG. 4. FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram of a
computer system which provides all of the functions of, and/or for,
the transmitter 2 or transceiver and the vehicle position and
locating system receiver 14. In FIG. 4, the home and/or personal
computer, which is denoted by the reference numeral 150 includes a
CPU 151 with associated read only memory (ROM) device 161 and
random access memory (RAM) device 162, a user interactive or
interface device 152 which includes a keyboard and/or a pointing
device, a display device 153 which may be a display monitor, an
output device 154 which may be a printer, and a database 155 which
may contain access code and command code data as well as digital
and/or digitized map data.
[0220] The computer 150 also includes a transmitter 156 for
transmitting data to the receiver 3 and/or the CPU 4 and a receiver
157 for receiving data from the receiver transmitter 3A and/or the
CPU 4. The computer 150 also includes a receiver 158 for receiving
data from the vehicle position and locating device 13 and a
transmitter 159 for transmitting data to the vehicle position and
locating device 13. In the embodiment of FIG. 4, data may be
transmitted to and received from the computer 150 by using any of
the conventionally known communication systems such as by utilizing
radio signal communication devices, telecommunication devices,
optical communication devices, satellite communication devices,
and/or personal communication devices and/or personal communication
services (PCS) devices, or any other suitable communications
devices, including any of the types of devices described above. In
the case of telecommunication devices, a fax/modem for sending and
receiving data may be utilized in the computer 150. Digital
communication devices may also be utilized.
[0221] FIG. 5A illustrates the apparatus of FIG. 1 wherein the
computer 150 of FIG. 4 is utilized as a substitute device for, and
for performing the functions of, the transmitter 2 or transceiver
and the vehicle position and locating system receiver 14.
[0222] In another preferred embodiment, the apparatus 1 can be
utilized in conjunction with a computer so that the authorized user
or operator can utilize the apparatus over an on-line service
and/or on, or over, the Internet and/or the World Wide Web and/or
other suitable communication network or medium.
[0223] FIG. 5B illustrates another preferred embodiment wherein the
apparatus 1 is utilized in conjunction with an on-line service
and/or on, or over, the Internet and/or the World Wide Web and/or
other suitable communication network or medium. In FIG. 5B, the
various transmitters of the apparatus 1, including the receiver
transmitter 3A, the CPU transmitter 4A and the vehicle position and
locating device transmitter 24, transmit their respective data
transmissions to a receiver 500 associated with an on-line service
or internet computer system or computer server 510 (hereinafter
"server") which is specifically dedicated to the task of providing
control over and/or monitoring the vehicle, the apparatus 1 and/or
any one or more of the vehicle systems which are controlled and/or
monitored by the apparatus 1. The server 510 can also perform
vehicle monitoring, tracking and/or recovery functions. The server
510 also has associated therewith, and connected and/or linked
thereto, a receiver 511 and a transmitter 512, for receiving and
transmitting, respectively, all of the respective signals utilized
for the complete and effective operation of the apparatus 1. The
server 510 may be utilized in conjunction with an associated Web
Site 520.
[0224] In the embodiment of FIG. 5B, the authorized user or
operator may transmit data directly to the apparatus 1 via the home
and/or personal computer 150. The authorized user or operator may
also transmit data directly to the server 510 over an appropriate
communication network or medium.
[0225] By using the computer 150 in conjunction with an appropriate
communication medium, the authorized user or operator may then
access the dedicated server 510 such as on-line and/or via the Web
Site 520 and thereby receive any and all of the above-described
data from the server 510 over the on-line service and/or on, or
over, the Internet and/or the World Wide Web and/or other suitable
communication network or medium. The authorized user or operator
may also enter command codes and other data so as to provide
control over the apparatus 1 via the server 510. The dedicated
server 510 may be accessed via the associated Web Site 520. The
dedicated server 510 may also process the data obtained by the
apparatus 1 in any appropriate manner, if desired. The authorized
user or operator may also access and provide control over the
apparatus 1 via the server 510.
[0226] Applicant also hereby incorporates by reference herein all
of the methods and/or techniques for providing information and/or
data over on-line services and/or on, or over, the Internet and/or
the World Wide Web or other suitable communication network or
medium, along with client/server and/or Web Site technology and
methods and/or techniques utilized in conjunction therewith, which
are known as of the filing date of this application. Any and/or all
data and/or information can be transmitted utilizing TCP/IP
protocols and/or other communication protocols. Applicant hereby
incorporates by reference herein the subject matter and teachings
of Business Data Communications, Raymond R. Panko, Prentice Hall,
1997. In this regard, the authorized user or operator may utilize
the apparatus to its fullest capabilities over an on-line service
and/or on, or over, the Internet and/or the World Wide Web or other
suitable communication network or medium. In this manner, the
embodiment of FIG. 5B may allow the authorized user or operator to
utilize the apparatus and/or to monitor the operation of the
apparatus over the on-line service and/or on, or over, the Internet
and/or the World Wide Web from any suitable computer and/or from
any location.
[0227] The operation of the apparatus 1 of the present invention is
described below with reference to the flow diagrams illustrated in
FIGS. 6A and 6B, which flow diagrams illustrate a preferred
embodiment method for utilization of the apparatus 1. The method of
the present invention may be implemented as a computer program or
software program which is utilized in conjunction with the CPU 4.
The computer program or software program may be programmable so as
to provide for the modification of same, if desired.
[0228] Upon the occurrence, or the discovery thereof, of the theft
of a motor vehicle, or simply to monitor vehicle status or
location, the authorized user or operator of the vehicle may
activate the apparatus 1 by entering an access code into the
transmitter interface 2A which, as noted above, may be a touch tone
telephone keypad. The entry of a valid access code will activate a
signal transmission from the transmitting device 2B in a manner
similar to that of making a telephone call. In the preferred
embodiment, the above sequence of events may occur by the
authorized user or operator simply utilizing a touch-tone
telephone, which may be a public pay telephone, a private
telephone, a line telephone, a cordless or wireless telephone, or a
cellular or mobile telephone, and by entering in the pre-determined
access code which is assigned to the particular apparatus 1.
[0229] In the case of a touch-tone telephone/telephone beeper or
pager system, wherein the beeper or pager is the receiver 3 in the
apparatus 1, this access code would typically be a code which would
comprise a given telephone area code and telephone number assigned
to, or programmed for, the beeper or pager (receiver 3).
[0230] Upon receiving the transmitted signal, the receiver 3, or
beeper or pager, or the communication system servicing the beeper
or pager, will typically generate, via transmitter 3A or by another
appropriate device, which may or may not be an integral part of the
receiver 3, a signal, electrical or otherwise, which is indicative
of the receiver 3 having received the signal from the transmitter 2
and which further indicates that the receiver 3 has been accessed.
In the case of a communication system or service which services the
beeper or pager, the transmitter 3A may be located externally from
the apparatus 1 and may be linked to the receiver 3 via the
communication link which services the receiver 3 (i.e., the beeper
or pager communications service system).
[0231] The received access signal is also sent to, or read by, the
CPU 4 so as to alert the CPU 4 that the receiver 3, and the
apparatus 1 have been accessed. The receiver 3, or the
communication system servicing the receiver (beeper or pager), will
then transmit a signal, via its transmitter 3A, to the transmitter
receiver 2C which is indicative of the fact that the receiver 3,
and the apparatus 1, have been accessed. This signal which is
transmitted to the transmitter receiver 2C usually takes the form
of an audible tone at the telephone headset which typically occurs
when it is desired to communicate with a beeper or pager
device.
[0232] The above sequence is analogous to the operation of a
telephone/telephone beeper or pager system wherein, when the beeper
or pager, or the communication system servicing the beeper or
pager, has answered the call, the beeper awaits entry of a
telephone number or code by the caller. The signal indication by
the receiver 3 will then be followed by a period of silence during
which period, the authorized user or operator may enter the desired
command code data or command code, which may include a vehicle
disable command code, a vehicle re-enable or reset command code, a
cancel code, or any other suitable command code by which the
authorized user or operator may exercise control over the apparatus
1. The authorized user or operator may then enter the code or
number sequence into the transmitter interface 2A or, in this case,
the telephone keypad.
[0233] In a case when the motor vehicle has been stolen, the
command code may be a vehicle disable command code. It should also
be noted that a vehicle re-enable or reset command code, or any
other suitable command code, which would represent a function or
operation to be performed by the apparatus 1, may also be entered,
as the circumstances may require, at this time. The command code is
then transmitted from the transmitting device 2B of the transmitter
system 2 and is received by the receiver 3 or beeper or pager. In
the preferred embodiment, a command code received signal is then
transmitted back to the transmitter system 2, via the receiver 3,
or communication system, transmitter 3A, which provides an
indication, to the authorized user or operator, that the command
code has been received by the apparatus 1.
[0234] The command code data is then transmitted to, or read by,
the CPU 4 for command code identification and for further
processing, if necessary. In this manner, an authorized user or
operator, upon learning of the theft of the vehicle, or simply
attempting to ascertain the status and/or location of the vehicle,
may easily access or activate the apparatus 1 by simply utilizing
the nearest touch-tone telephone and by "calling up" the apparatus
1.
[0235] The telephone/telephone beeper system, described above, may
be replaced with any remote transmitter/receiver system, such as by
a remote transmitter, i.e., a television-type remote control unit,
which control unit would require a user interface feature and which
has the capability to remotely transmit a multitude of signals over
long distances to an associated receiver. A two-way pager, or other
appropriate two-way communication device may also be utilized. A
home and/or personal computer, with requisite peripheral devices, a
personal communication device and/or a personal communication
services (PCS) device may also be utilized. Digital communications
devices, interactive televisions and/or digital televisions may
also be utilized. It is also envisioned that digital televisions,
interactive televisions, personal communications devices, personal
communications services (PCS) devices, personal digital assistants,
display telephones, video telephones, electronically equipped
watches and/or other effects or accessories, cellular telephones,
display cellular telephones may also be utilized.
[0236] By utilizing a telephone/telephone beeper or pager system,
or a wireless telephone and/or wireless communication device, in
the preferred embodiment, a long range, remote-controlled system
may be achieved which systems are usually very well maintained by
telecommunication companies or carriers and are also very reliable.
By using a telephone/telephone beeper or pager system, or wireless
telephone and/or wireless communication device, the authorized user
or operator does not have to keep track of a separate remote
control unit. In this manner, a reliable and efficient apparatus
communication system is achieved. The apparatus 1 may also be
equipped with an alternate and/or an auxiliary transmitter
device(s), such as a remote control unit or home and/or personal
computer system, which could be employed in addition to a
telephone. In this manner, if the authorized user or operator
should leave the remote control unit in the vehicle, or should lose
it, the apparatus 1 may still be accessed by the authorized user or
operator. Still further, some telephone/telephone beeper or pager
systems, wireless telephones, and/or wireless communication
devices, may have effective distance ranges on the order of
hundreds or thousands of miles which may be economical and reliable
for long range signal transmission.
[0237] In the case where the motor vehicle has been stolen, and the
authorized user or operator wants to prevent or thwart the theft of
the vehicle and recover the vehicle, the command code which is to
be entered is a vehicle disable command code (disable code) which
will disable the vehicle in the manner described below. Similarly,
if the authorized user or operator desires to re-enable or reset
the apparatus 1, such as when the motor vehicle has been recovered
or found, so as to render the vehicle re-enabled or operational,
the command code to be entered will be a vehicle re-enable or reset
command code (re-enable or reset code).
[0238] Once the command code has been entered, the receiver 3, via
its transmitter 3A, may provide a signal indication to the
transmitter system 2, which may take the form of audible tones to a
headset, such as is known in beeper or pager systems, which serve
to confirm receipt of the command code by the receiver 3 and the
apparatus 1. The data entered into, and transmitted from, the
transmitter system 2, and received by the receiver 3, will then be
transmitted to, or read by, the CPU 4 for command code
identification and for subsequent processing, if necessary.
[0239] If the authorized user or operator merely wants to determine
the status of the vehicle and/or of any of the vehicle equipment
systems (i.e., is the ignition system on, is the engine running, is
a burglar alarm system armed, etc.), a status code may be entered
and the CPU 4, after monitoring the vehicle systems, may report
back to the authorized user or operator via the receiver
transmitter 3A or the CPU transmitter 4A. If the authorized user or
operator wants to determine the location of the vehicle and/or if
it is in motion, a location request code may be entered whereupon
the vehicle position and locating device 13 may be actuated so as
to determine vehicle position and/or location data, which data may
then be transmitted to the user or operator via transmitter 24. The
CPU transmitter 4A may also transmit vehicle portion data as the
CPU 4 may also have access to said data. In this manner, the user
or operator may exercise control over the vehicle and/or monitor
the operational status and/or state of the vehicle and/or of any of
the vehicle systems and/or components. The user or operator may
also monitor the position and/or movement of the vehicle.
[0240] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate flow diagrams of a preferred
embodiment of the operational steps and/or sequence of operation of
the apparatus and method of the present invention. With reference
to FIGS. 6A and 6B, the receiver 3, upon receipt of the access
code, will generate an interrupt in the CPU 4 which will activate
an operational program or an interrupt service routine, at step 60,
of the flow diagram. At step 61, the command code data is received
by the apparatus 1. Upon receipt of the command code by the
receiver 3, the command code is then transmitted to, or read by,
the CPU 4 at step 62. The CPU 4 will then, at step 62A, perform a
processing routine in order to identify the command code which has
been entered.
[0241] In the preferred embodiment, the command code should be of a
pre-determined length and should be chosen to be one of a variety
of codes which may be chosen so as to provide for the controlling
of the apparatus 1 to perform any number of functions and/or to
control the vehicle and/or any of the vehicle systems utilized in
conjunction with the apparatus 1. The command code may be a valid
disable code, a valid re-enable or reset code, a cancel code, a
vehicle status code, a vehicle position and locating code, or any
other suitable code which may be recognized by the CPU 4 so as to
provide control over and/or monitoring of the apparatus 1. A
command code may be utilized to indicate a cancel operation, or to
identify a previous transmission as a false alarm. An incomplete
code, an invalid code, or the absence of a command code after the
apparatus 1 has been accessed, may be deemed to be a false
alarm.
[0242] The cancel and false alarm categories are utilized in order
to enable an authorized user or operator to cancel access to and/or
activation of the apparatus 1, or to prevent an unauthorized access
or unauthorized attempt to enter a command code into the apparatus
1. Such an identification processing routine may be performed in a
very simple manner, such as by testing the command code or code
data against pre-determined or pre-defined codes and/or against any
other code data which may be stored in apparatus program memory.
Such testing may be performed by any one of the widely known
software testing and identification routines and/or techniques.
[0243] At step 63, the CPU 4 will determine if the code is a valid
code. If the code is valid, then the processing will proceed to
step 64. If the code is invalid, the CPU 4 will return to step 76
thereby exiting the operational program or interrupt service
routine and the apparatus 1 will await a next access code and
command code transmission. Once a valid command code has been
entered, the CPU 4, at step 64, will determine if a valid disable
code has been entered, which disable code signifies that the car
has been stolen and/or is under the control of an unauthorized user
or operator or simply that the authorized user or operator wishes
to render the vehicle inoperative. Once the command code, if
entered, is identified, the CPU 4, under the control of the
apparatus operational program or interrupt service routine, will
perform the appropriate apparatus control functions.
[0244] If a valid disable code is identified as having been
transmitted, at step 64 (which may designate that the vehicle has
been stolen), the CPU 4 will initiate and/or actuate the operation
of the vehicle position and locating device 13 at step 65. The
vehicle position and locating device 13 will then begin to, and
continue to, perform the necessary routines in order to determine
vehicle position and/or location as will be described below. The
operation of the vehicle position and locating device 13 will
proceed and continue simultaneously and/or concurrently with the
operation of the apparatus 1 and the CPU 4 as described below.
[0245] The CPU 4, which is connected to the vehicle ignition system
7, so as to send and receive data to and from the vehicle ignition
system 7, will perform a software test, at step 66, in order to
determine whether the vehicle ignition system 7 is activated or is
on (i.e. the vehicle is operating or is in motion). This will
require a monitoring of the vehicle ignition system 7 by the CPU
4.
[0246] As noted above, a vehicle ignition system interface 8 is
optional and may or may not be employed in order to facilitate this
function of monitoring and controlling the vehicle ignition system
7 by the CPU 4.
[0247] If the vehicle ignition system 7 is determined to be
activated or on, the CPU 4 will enter into a delay loop, at step
67. The purpose of the delay loop, at step 67, is to prevent the
vehicle ignition system 7 from being de-activated or shut-down
while the vehicle engine is still on or running. Such a test and
delay loop routine serves to prevent accidents and resulting
personal injury and property damage, such as may be caused when a
vehicle suddenly looses power while in motion and/or is travelling
at a moderate, or at a high, rate of speed or when such a loss of
engine power may result in the failure of the vehicle power
steering and/or power brake systems. In this manner, the CPU 4 will
continue to interrogate the vehicle ignition system 7 after a
pre-determined delay period, and will continue to do so until the
vehicle ignition system 7 is determined to be shut-off and/or is
non-operational.
[0248] While any delay period may be employed, at step 67, and may
be programmed into the program software of the apparatus 1, it is
important to choose a delay period which can detect even the
shortest duration of a vehicle ignition system shut-down. In the
preferred embodiment, a delay period of one (1) second is utilized.
This delay period, of course, may be changed in the program
software, as desired, by utilizing known system programming methods
and/or techniques.
[0249] After the delay period has elapsed, at step 67, the CPU 4
will again interrogate the ignition system 7, at step 66, and will
continue to do so in the above described delay loop routine until
the ignition system 7 is determined to be shut-off and/or is
non-operational. Once it has been determined that the vehicle
ignition system 7 is shut-off and/or is non-operational, the CPU 4,
at step 68, will issue a disable signal to the vehicle ignition
system 7.
[0250] The disable signal which is issued by the CPU 4, at step 68,
will disable the vehicle ignition system 7, thereby preventing a
restarting of the vehicle engine. The disabling function may be
performed by the CPU 4 by issuing a data signal, which causes the
vehicle ignition system circuitry to be shut-off or be "opened",
such as by opening a switching device and/or a series of switching
devices (i.e. a switch or relay (not shown)), which is or are
located in, or designed into, the ignition system circuitry, the
starter motor, or at any other location in the ignition system 7,
or by issuing a disabling signal to the digital or logic devices,
which may be utilized in connection with the vehicle electronic
command computer and/or other electrical components or systems.
[0251] It should be noted that any number of methods may be used,
in conjunction with the apparatus 1, for disabling the vehicle
ignition system 7. The CPU 4 can be utilized to provide control
signals, to disable or re-enable, the vehicle ignition system 7
just as any microprocessor-based digital system provides control
over the operation of the components and/or peripheral devices
utilized in conjunction therewith. The techniques utilized, in
order to provide such control over the vehicle ignition system 7
may be determined on a vehicle-by-vehicle basis.
[0252] Once the vehicle ignition system 7 has been disabled, only
the issuance of a valid re-enable or reset command code, to the
apparatus 1, may be utilized to re-enable or reset the vehicle
ignition system 7. In this manner, a carefully concealed and
installed placement of the apparatus 1, within the vehicle, will
provide for a completely disabled vehicle until such time as a
valid access code, followed by a valid re-enable or reset command
code, is entered by the authorized user or operator in a manner
consistent with the operation of the apparatus 1. As can be readily
appreciated, a carefully concealed apparatus 1, along with a
strategically placed ignition cut-off circuitry or system, would
render it most difficult, if not impossible, for the thief or
thieves to practically defeat the apparatus 1.
[0253] With reference once again to FIGS. 6A and 6B, the CPU 4, at
step 69, will then issue a disabling signal to the vehicle fuel
pump system 9 thereby de-activating the vehicle fuel pump system 9
and prohibiting the supply of fuel to the vehicle engine. The
disabling signal from the CPU 4 can disable the vehicle fuel pump
system 9 by any one of the well known methods for disabling a fuel
pump system. In the case of electric fuel pump systems, said
systems may be disabled by any one of the known methods for
shutting-off or "opening" an electrical circuit which provides
power to, or control over, the fuel pump system 9, such as by a
cut-off switch or relay, which methods and/or techniques may be
similar to and/or analogous to those methods and/or techniques
utilized in connection with disabling the vehicle ignition system
7.
[0254] In the case where electronic components are utilized, the
digital components or logic gates in the control circuitry may also
be disabled. In the case where a mechanical fuel pump is utilized,
an electric valve assembly, which may provide a fuel pump operation
cut-off or disconnect, may also be utilized thereby allowing any
appropriate method for disabling an electrical fuel pump system to
be utilized in order to disable the electric valve assembly, and
ultimately, to shut-off or disable the mechanical fuel pump system.
The vehicle fuel pump system interface 10 may be utilized, if
necessary, in order to facilitate the above described disabling
technique(s).
[0255] The CPU 4 can be utilized in order to provide control
signals to disable or re-enable the vehicle fuel pump system 9 just
as any microprocessor-based digital system provides control over
the operation of components and peripheral devices utilized in
conjunction therewith. It should be noted that the techniques
utilized in order to provide control over (disable or re-enable)
the vehicle fuel pump system 9 may be determined on a
vehicle-by-vehicle or fuel pump-by-fuel pump basis.
[0256] Upon the disabling of the vehicle ignition system 7, at step
68, and/or the vehicle fuel pump system 9, at step 69, the CPU 4,
at step 70, if so commanded, will then issue a control signal(s) to
activate or de-activate, whichever the case may be, any one or more
of the various vehicle equipment systems 11 which are utilized in
conjunction with the apparatus 1. As noted above, the vehicle
equipment system(s) 11, if employed, may include an alarm or siren,
which has a piercing sound and which is placed in the interior of
the passenger compartment. The alarm or siren would serve to make
it unbearable for the thief or thieves to remain inside the
vehicle. External alarms or sirens may also be utilized in order to
draw attention to the vehicle. A horn or horns, which could blare
continuously or intermittently, could also be utilized to draw
attention to the vehicle.
[0257] A vehicle light system, i.e. head lights, tail lights,
parking lights, etc. may also be activated so as to illuminate
continuously or intermittently, such as by blinking, in order to
draw attention to the vehicle. Other vehicle equipment systems,
such as a power door locking system, may be activated, immediately
or after a delay, for securing the vehicle passenger compartment so
as to prevent an entry thereunto or an exit therefrom. It is also
envisioned that there may be a delay between the disabling of the
vehicle ignition system 7 and the activation of the power door lock
system so as to allow the thief or thieves to get out of the car
before the locking operation takes place.
[0258] It is also envisioned that a mechanical hood locking system
may be utilized and activated so as to lock the hood and prevent an
unauthorized access into the vehicle engine compartment. Such a
vehicle hood locking feature could prevent tampering with the
apparatus 1 or with other systems and/or components of the vehicle.
A vehicle alarm system or anti-theft system(s), such as any one or
more of the well known types of anti-theft and/or theft deterrent
systems or devices may also be activated, and/or de-activated, when
and if desired, by the CPU 4. The CPU 4 may also activate a vehicle
homing and/or tracking or recovery device system such as a LoJacke
Stolen Vehicle Recovery System and/or any other type of vehicle
recovery system.
[0259] Any one or more of the above-described vehicle equipment
system(s) 11 which may include a power door lock system, including
electronic and/or electrical dead bolt locking devices, for
securing the vehicle passenger compartment, hood or trunk, so as to
prevent an unauthorized entry thereunto, video recording equipment,
for recording and supplying video information, and/or audio
recording equipment, for recording and supplying audio information,
may also be activated or deactivated.
[0260] The CPU 4 can be utilized in order to provide control
signals to activate and/or to de-activate any one or more of the
vehicle equipment systems 11 just as a microprocessor-based digital
system provides control over components and/or over peripheral
devices utilized in conjunction therewith. Such methods and/or
techniques may be similar to those methods and/or techniques
utilized to provide control by the CPU 4 over the vehicle ignition
system 7 and the vehicle fuel pump system 9. It should be noted
that the techniques utilized, in order to provide control over any
of the vehicle equipment system(s) 11, may be determined on a
vehicle-by-vehicle and/or system-by-system basis. It is also
envisioned that a vehicle exhaust system may be de-activated and/or
similarly controlled by the apparatus 1.
[0261] Once disabled, the vehicle ignition system 7, and the
vehicle fuel pump system 9, will remain disabled even if the
vehicle power supply should be drained. This is due to the fact
that the digital circuitry, which is utilized in the apparatus 1,
in the vehicle ignition system 7, in the vehicle fuel pump system
9, and/or in any of the vehicle equipment system(s) 11, may include
digital "memory" devices such as logic gates, flip-flops, etc.
and/or electromagnetic devices, such as switches or relays, which
may be chosen so as to remain in their state unless altered or
activated in a predefined fashion, electrically, electronically or
otherwise, or under the power of an electrical signal or stimulus
which is controllable only by an authorized user or operator.
Further, even if the vehicle power is completely drained, these
above mentioned devices, which may be chosen so as to require a
predefined application of electrical or electronic power in order
to change their state, or their operating mode or operation, would
have their re-activation prevented, and thus, the vehicle ignition
system 7, the vehicle fuel pump system 9, and/or any of the vehicle
equipment system(s) 11, will remain in a disabled state.
[0262] It is also envisioned that back-up and/or supplemental power
supplies, such as batteries, fuel cells, etc., (not shown) may also
be utilized in conjunction with the apparatus 1 so as to prolong
the continued activation or de-activation of the vehicle ignition,
fuel pump and/or any of the vehicle equipment system(s) 11 which
are utilized. Supplemental power systems are optional and may also
be employed with the apparatus 1 so as to provide power for any
unusual power requirements which may be required by the vehicle in
which the apparatus 1 may be installed. The back-up and/or
supplemental power supplies may also be solar powered and/or be
constantly chargeable by a vehicle recharging and/or alternator
system.
[0263] Upon the completion of apparatus 1 operation, at step 70,
the CPU 4 will then exit the operational program or interrupt
service routine at step 76. This signifies the completion of the
operational program or interrupt service routine in the case of
receiving a disable command code. The CPU 4 will then await the
next accessing and/or activation of the apparatus 1 by the
authorized user or operator, via entry of a valid access code into
the transmitter system 2 as described above. Unless a valid access
code, followed by a valid re-enable or reset command code, is
entered into the transmitter interface 2A, the vehicle ignition
system 7, and the vehicle fuel pump system 9, will remain disabled
and/or any of the utilized vehicle equipment system(s) 11, will
remain in their activated or de-activated states.
[0264] Upon the vehicle being found or recovered, such as in a
manner resulting from utilizing the vehicle position and locating
device 13, in the manner described hereinbelow, the authorized user
or operator may once again access the apparatus 1 by entering the
valid access code into the transmitter interface 2A and then by
entering the valid re-enabling or reset command code. As described
above, a valid access code will once again initiate the operation
of the operational program or interrupt service routine, at step
60, which is described above and illustrated in FIGS. 6A and 6B.
The valid re-enable or reset command code will then be received by
the receiver 3, in the manner described above at step 61.
[0265] The command code data will then be transmitted to, or read
by, the CPU 4, at step 62 and processed and identified at step 62A.
The CPU 4, at step 63, will then determine whether the re-enable or
reset command code, which was entered, is a valid code. The CPU 4,
at step 64, will then determine if the command code is a valid
disable code. Since a valid re-enable or reset code has been
entered, the CPU 4 will determine that the command code is not a
disable code. The CPU 4 will then proceed to step 71 and will
determine whether the command code is a valid re-enable or reset
command code.
[0266] If the command code is not a valid re-enable or reset
command code, the CPU 4 will exit the operational program or
interrupt service routine, at step 76, and will await entry of the
next valid access code and command code. It should be noted that,
as an added security measure, the apparatus 1 may be programmed so
that, upon the receipt of one or more invalid access and/or command
codes, the apparatus 1 may require that the authorized user or
operator re-program a new access code for the apparatus 1 through a
central office or agency or maintenance service which provides
service and/or maintenance for the apparatus 1. In any event, the
apparatus 1 may be accessed by a valid access code with such
accessing resetting the apparatus 1 and initiating the operation of
the apparatus 1.
[0267] If, however, the entered command code is identified as a
valid re-enable or reset code, at step 71, the CPU 4, subsequent to
such determination, but prior to actually re-enabling or resetting
the vehicle ignition system 7, re-enabling the vehicle fuel pump
system 9, and de-activating or re-activating, whichever the case
may be, any one or more of the various vehicle equipment systems 11
which are utilized, will perform a test, at step 72, in order to
verify that the vehicle ignition system 7 is, in fact, still
disabled. If, at step 72, the vehicle ignition system is still
enabled or on, the CPU 4 will exit the operational program or
interrupt service routine and will await entry of the next valid
access code and command code. This test, at step 72, is a safety
feature which serves to ensure that no re-enabling or resetting
signal will be issued by the apparatus 1 if the vehicle ignition
system 7 is not disabled. In this manner, the operation of the
vehicle ignition system 7 will not be interrupted or affected,
which interruption may be unsafe if the vehicle is already in
operation or in motion.
[0268] It should be noted that neither the vehicle fuel pump system
9 nor any of the various vehicle equipment systems 11 which may be
utilized, should have their status of operation altered as any
interruption of the status quo of each of the respective systems,
during normal vehicle operation, may also be unsafe.
[0269] If the vehicle ignition system 7 is determined to be
disabled, at step 72, the CPU 4 will, at step 73, issue a control
signal which will re-enable or reset the vehicle ignition system 7.
This may be accomplished by any method and/or technique which would
re-enable or re-activate the vehicle ignition system circuitry. The
CPU 4, at step 74, will then issue a control signal to re-enable or
reset the vehicle fuel pump system 9, if so desired, which may also
be accomplished by re-enabling or re-activating the vehicle fuel
pump system circuitry.
[0270] The CPU 4 will then, at step 75, issue control signals to
each of the various vehicle equipment systems 11 which are
utilized, so as to de-activate or re-activate the respective
system(s) which had been activated or de-activated, respectively,
earlier at step 70 or otherwise. Upon the completion of the
above-described events, the vehicle will then be ready for
operation, barring any need for service and/or for repairs. The CPU
4, upon the completion of step 75, will then exit the operational
program or interrupt service routine, at step 76, and will await
the next valid accessing and/or activation of the apparatus 1.
[0271] As noted above, if the re-enable or reset command code is
not a valid code, the CPU 4 will ignore the received data, will
exit the operational program or interrupt service routine, at step
76, and will await the next valid accessing and/or activation of
the apparatus 1. In this regard, if an invalid command code should
be entered into the transmitter interface 2A, such as by an
authorized user or operator who has made a mistaken entry, or who
is trying to cancel the accessing and activation of the apparatus
1, or by an unauthorized person attempting to gain unauthorized
access to the apparatus 1, the CPU 4, upon identifying the code as
an invalid command code, will ignore the command code transmission,
and will exit the operational program or interrupt service routine,
at step 76. The CPU 4 will then await the next valid accessing
and/or activation of the apparatus 1.
[0272] Any subsequent accessing of the apparatus 1 will reset the
apparatus 1 thereby preventing the apparatus 1 from being left in a
state of "limbo". In this manner, the apparatus 1 serves to prevent
an unauthorized accessing and/or an unwanted disabling or
re-enabling or resetting of the vehicle ignition system 7 and/or
the vehicle fuel pump system 9 along with the activation or the
de-activation of any of the various vehicle equipment systems 11
which may be utilized, unless and until all valid codes are
utilized.
[0273] The above safeguards will also prevent a wrong or mis-dialed
number from accidentally accessing and activating the apparatus 1
which may result in an unwanted disabling or re-enabling, or the
activation or de-activation, of the respective vehicle systems.
These safeguards may be provided at the access code level of
transmission and/or at the command code level of transmission. Such
safeguards also prevent the apparatus 1 from being accessed and
left in a state of "limbo" which may compromise the ability of an
authorized user or operator to access and utilize the apparatus 1.
The entry of an invalid access code will simply fail to access the
apparatus 1.
[0274] In this manner, the apparatus 1 serves to prevent an
unauthorized or an unwanted disabling or re-enabling or setting or
resetting of the vehicle ignition system 7 and/or the vehicle fuel
pump system 9 along with the activation or the de-activation of any
of the various vehicle equipment systems 11 which may be
utilized.
[0275] As noted above, with reference to FIGS. 6A and 6B, once a
valid disable code has been recognized by the CPU 4, at step 64,
the apparatus 1 will, at step 65, activate the vehicle position and
locating device 13. The operation of the vehicle position and
locating device 13 will then be initiated, at step 65, and will
operate simultaneously and/or concurrently with, and independently
of, the apparatus 1 and the CPU 4 in the performance of the
operational steps 66-76 and 71-76 as described above. In this
manner, the vehicle position and locating device 13 is utilized to
calculate, determine and transmit vehicle position data in a manner
independently of apparatus control over the vehicle ignition system
7, fuel pump system 9, and/or any of the vehicle equipment
system(s) 11.
[0276] FIG. 7 illustrates the operation, in flow diagram form, of
the vehicle position and locating device 13. As noted above, the
operation of the vehicle position and locating device 13 commences
at step 65 as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B and thereafter operates
simultaneously and/or concurrently with, and independently of, the
operation of the apparatus 1 and the CPU 4. With reference to FIG.
7, the operation of the vehicle position and locating device 13 is
initiated at step 200 of FIG. 7. At step 201, the computer 21 of
the vehicle position and locating device 13 activates the global
positioning device 22, which is any one of the widely known global
positioning devices. Once activated, the global positioning device
22 calculates vehicle position data at step 202 by using well known
global positioning calculation methods and/or techniques.
[0277] Once the vehicle position data has been calculated at step
202, a test is performed at step 203 in order to determine if the
geographical position data (i.e., specific vehicle location
identified on a map, location on identified roadway, etc.) has been
requested. If geographical position or location data has been
requested, the computer 21 will, at step 204, calculate the
geographical position or location data of the vehicle in
conjunction with the digital and/or digitized map data which is
stored in the database 25. The calculated geographical position
data of the vehicle will then be transmitted, at step 205, by the
transmitter 24, of the vehicle position and locating device 13, to
the vehicle position system receiver 14 which is located at the
location of the authorized user or operator, or at the authorized
office, agency or other entity.
[0278] If, at step 203, geographic position data has not been
requested, then the position data which is calculated by the global
positioning system 22 is transmitted, at step 205, to the vehicle
position system receiver 14. In the preferred embodiment, the
calculated vehicle position data is transmitted repeatedly for a
predefined time interval which time interval is facilitated by
utilizing the time delay at step 206.
[0279] In the preferred embodiment, the position data is
transmitted repeatedly for a time period of five (5) minutes, which
time period is monitored by utilizing the time delay function at
step 206. Once the pre-defined time delay period has elapsed, the
computer 21 will, at step 207, determine whether the vehicle
position and location device 13 has been de-activated, such as
would occur once the vehicle has been found and/or recovered and/or
if the apparatus 1 has been reset. If the vehicle position and
location device 13 has not been de-activated, operation of the
vehicle position and locating device 13 will return to step 202 and
will once again calculate vehicle position data. In this manner,
vehicle position and/or location data may be updated. If the
vehicle position device 13 has been de-activated, the computer 21
will, at step 208, exit the operational routine or interrupt
service routine and will await its next re-activation.
[0280] FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate the operation, in flow diagram
form, of the vehicle position system receiver 14 which, as noted
above, is located at the location of the authorized user or
operator or at an office, agency or other entity which is
authorized to receive the vehicle position and/or location data.
The vehicle position system receiver 14 receives the vehicle
position data which is transmitted by the vehicle position
transmitter 24 of the vehicle position and locating device 13. In
the preferred embodiment, the operation of the vehicle position
system receiver 14 is activated upon receipt of a valid access code
transmitted by the transmitter 3A. In this regard, the
above-described access code, which is transmitted by the
transmitter 3A, is also received by the receiver 30 of the vehicle
position system receiver 14 thereby activating same.
[0281] In this regard, the access code is also utilized to activate
the vehicle position system receiver 14. The vehicle position
system receiver 14 may also be manually and/or in some other way
activated by the authorized user or operator or by the authorized
agency, office or entity.
[0282] Operation of the vehicle position system receiver 14 is
initiated at step 250. The computer 31 will, upon receipt of the
activate signal, activate the receiver 30, at step 251, which will
await transmission of the vehicle position or location data, from
the vehicle position and locating device 13. Upon transmission of
the vehicle position data from the vehicle position and locating
device 13, the receiver 30 will, at step 252, receive the vehicle
position data.
[0283] The computer 31 will then, at step 253, determine if the
received data is geographic position data. If geographic position
data is obtained, the computer 31 will, at step 254, store the
position data in memory and will, at step 255, display the position
data on the display 33. If geographic position data has not been
received, the computer 31, at step 256, will generate an inquiry on
the display 33 to determine if geographic position data is desired.
The system will then await operator response via the user interface
32. If the user selects to receive geographic position data, the
computer 31 will proceed to step 257 and calculate geographic
position data from the received "raw" position data.
[0284] The computer 31 will then, at step 254, store the data for
the vehicle position and will, at step 255, display the vehicle
position data on the display 33. If, at step 256, the user does not
want to obtain geographic position data, the computer 31 will, at
step 254, store the "raw" position data and display it on the
display 33 in a latitude and/or longitude format, and/or in any
other suitable and/or conventional format and/or manner which is
utilized in conjunction with the global positioning device 22 or
global positioning technology.
[0285] At step 258, the computer 31 will determine if more than one
vehicle position data point has been stored. If only one vehicle
position data point has been stored, the computer 31 will instruct
the receiver 30 to receive the next vehicle position data
transmission at step 252. If, at step 258, more than one vehicle
position data point has been stored, the computer 31 will, at step
259, calculate the track of vehicle movement and display the
vehicle movement track on the display 33 at step 260. The computer
31, at step 261, will then determine if the authorized user or
operator desires to continue operation of the vehicle position
system receiver 14.
[0286] If the user or operator desires operation of the vehicle
receiver system receiver 14 to continue, such as is the case when
the vehicle has not yet been found or recovered, the computer 31
will return to operation, at step 252, and the receiver 30 will
receive the next vehicle position data transmission and operation
of the vehicle position system receiver 14 will continue. If,
however, it is determined, at step 261, that the user or operator
desires to discontinue operation of the vehicle position system
receiver 14, such as is the case when the vehicle has been found or
recovered, the vehicle position system receiver 14 will be
de-activated and its operation will cease at step 262. Thereafter,
the vehicle position system receiver 14 will await its next
activation.
[0287] The above described operation of the vehicle position and
locating device 13 and the vehicle position system receiver 14 will
continue to operate, and continuously update vehicle position data
until the vehicle is found and/or recovered, at which point these
systems may be de-activated. It is envisioned that the apparatus 1
of the present invention may track and/or locate the vehicle
anywhere in the world. It is also important to note that vehicle
position data, which is received at the vehicle position system
receiver 14, may be output via a printer, via the computer display
monitor and/or via a voice synthesized audio output via a speaker
(not shown) which is connected to the vehicle position receiver
system 14.
[0288] In this manner, the apparatus 1 of the present invention may
be utilized to find and/or recover a stolen vehicle and/or to
monitor vehicle operation and/or vehicle location and/or
movement.
[0289] In the above described manner, the present invention
provides for an apparatus and a method for allowing an authorized
user or operator of a vehicle to prevent vehicle theft, to
facilitate stolen vehicle recovery, and/or to safely surrender the
vehicle under force, or threat of force, while affording the
authorized user or operator the opportunity to prevent or seriously
thwart the vehicle theft from a safe location or vantage point and
facilitate vehicle recovery. The present invention may also be
utilized to thwart, or prevent a vehicle theft even if the vehicle
theft was discovered at a later time or from a location remote from
the vehicle.
[0290] Further, the present invention provides for an apparatus and
a method for disabling and/or re-enabling various systems of the
vehicle, when the vehicle is not in use, simply by "calling up" the
apparatus 1, so as to disable the vehicle and provide added
security against theft. In this manner, an authorized user or
operator may disable the vehicle ignition system 7, fuel pump
system 9 and/or any of a variety of the vehicle equipment systems
11, of a vehicle which may be parked or in use, from any location
and/or at any time.
[0291] An authorized user or operator may also access the apparatus
1 at any time and, with the use of an appropriate command code, may
determine the operating status of the vehicle and/or any one or
more of the various vehicle systems so as to determine if, for
example, the ignition system 7 or fuel pump system 9 is activated
or on, thereby alerting the authorized user or operator that
someone is operating the vehicle. An authorized user or operator
may also access the apparatus 1 so as to determine vehicle position
and/or location and/or the geographic location of the vehicle. In
this manner, the authorized user or operator can provide monitoring
and/or control over the vehicle and/or any of the vehicle equipment
systems and/or devices, determine the status of the vehicle and/or
of any of the vehicle equipment systems or devices, and/or
determine and/or monitor the location of his or her vehicle at any
time and for any reason. In this regard, a safe and an effective
anti-theft and/or vehicle recovery apparatus and method is provided
by the present invention.
[0292] While, in the above description, the operation of the
present invention has been described and illustrated in conjunction
with the use of a valid disable command code and a valid re-enable
or reset command code, it is also envisioned that any number of
valid disable command codes and/or any number of valid re-enable or
reset command codes may be utilized, wherein each different disable
code or re-enable or reset code may selectively disable or
re-enable or reset any one or any combination of the vehicle
systems, such as the vehicle ignition system 7, the vehicle fuel
pump system 9, and/or any one or more of the various vehicle
auxiliary equipment systems 11 which may be utilized. In this
manner, the authorized user or operator may utilize the present
invention to selectively disable, re-enable, de-activate or
re-activate any one or more of the vehicle systems, or a
combination thereof, at his or her discretion, at any time,
wherever he or she may be. The operational program and/or interrupt
service routine may be altered, modified and/or supplemented in
order to service the multitude of possible command codes which may
be utilized in conjunction with the apparatus 1.
[0293] As noted above, an authorized user or operator may also
utilize command codes for determining status of the apparatus 1, or
of the vehicle, or any one or more of the vehicle systems. A
command code may also be employed to simply determine vehicle
position data. In any of the above cases, however, the operational
program or interrupt service routine would have to be modified so
as to identify and service each of the possible command codes. The
operational program or interrupt service routine would also have to
be modified so as to identify each of the possible valid command
codes so as to provide for the appropriate CPU 4 and apparatus 1
response thereto.
[0294] The apparatus 1, the CPU 4, and/or any of the vehicle
systems and/or devices and/or vehicle equipment systems, and/or the
respective interface devices associated therewith or corresponding
thereto, may also be programmable by the user or operator via the
transmitter 2, and/or at the vehicle in an appropriate manner and
by an appropriately secured device, so that certain parameters,
such as the timing, and/or the degree of disabling or re-enabling,
of the various vehicle systems may be programmed and/or controlled.
Any of the above-described systems and/or devices may be
programmable for timed enabling and/or disabling, for timed
activation, and/or for deferred activation, etc. By utilizing a
multitude of command codes, including disable codes and/or
re-enable or reset codes, which codes affect different vehicle
systems, or combinations thereof, it is possible to selectively
control the vehicle systems from a remote location. This feature
provides for greater versatility in the utilization of the
apparatus 1.
[0295] By providing the capability for utilizing different disable
codes and/or re-enable or reset codes, the authorized user or
operator may utilize the apparatus 1 of the present invention so as
to disable or re-enable or reset the vehicle ignition system 7 and
the vehicle fuel pump system 9, at any time, so as to disable the
vehicle without activating or de-activating any of the vehicle
equipment systems 11, and therefore, without drawing attention to
the vehicle.
[0296] This feature would enable an authorized user or operator to
disable, re-enable, or reset the vehicle ignition system 7, the
vehicle fuel pump system 9, and/or activate or de-activate any one
or more of the various vehicle equipment systems 11, so as to
disable the vehicle at any time and from any location. In this
manner, the authorized user or operator may disable the vehicle,
and/or any of the vehicle systems, daily and/or nightly, while at
work, before going to sleep at night, or at any other time, simply
by accessing and activating the apparatus 1 by using the
transmitter 2 or transceiver which may simply be a touch-tone
telephone.
[0297] Since the vehicle ignition system 7 is usually off at these
times, the disabling, and the subsequent re-enabling of other
vehicle systems will occur as described above with regards to FIGS.
6A and 6B. In this manner, the present invention may provide for an
effective device by which to "lock-up" a vehicle, at any time, even
when the vehicle is in the rightful possession, or under the
control, of the vehicle owner and/or authorized operator.
[0298] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, the
present invention can be utilized in order to provide control over
and/or to monitor, the vehicle, any of the vehicle systems,
devices, and/or components, vehicle operating status, the operating
status of the vehicle's systems, devices, and/or components, video
and/or audio inside the vehicle, video and/or audio outside the
vehicle, video and/or audio in the vicinity of the vehicle, to
provide video conferencing with individuals inside, outside, and/or
in the vicinity of the vehicle, to provide notification to a
vehicle owner and/or operator of a an operational status and/or
state of disrepair of the vehicle and/or a vehicle system, device,
and/or component, to provide for remote vehicle diagnostic and/or
repair functions, to provide notification from the vehicle CPU 4
regarding vehicle operation, operational status of the vehicle
and/or any of the vehicle systems, devices, and/or components.
[0299] The present invention can also be utilized in order to
provide video and/or audio confirmation and/or verification of
and/or for any control, monitoring, and/or security, operation
and/or activity which can be effected and/or facilitated via the
apparatus of the present invention. In this manner, a user of the
present invention who may, for example, effect a control or
monitoring function involving the vehicle (i.e. starting the
engine, turning on the lights, activating the alarm, turning off
the engine, turning the vehicle, and so on, etc.) can obtain a
video and/or audio confirmation at and/or from the vehicle that the
operation has been effected.
[0300] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, the
respective vehicle equipment system(s) and/or the command computer
can ascertain a state of disrepair in any vehicle system, device,
and/or component, and can provide notification to the CPU 4. The
CPU 4 can then generate and/or transmit an appropriate notification
signal to the central processing computer servicing the vehicle.
The central processing computer can thereafter generate and/or
transmit an appropriate signal and/or message to the computer
and/or communication device associated with the vehicle owner or
operator.
[0301] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, the
apparatus of the present invention can be utilized in order to
notify the manufacturer, dealer, and/or repair center of a state of
disrepair, thereby allowing the respective manufacturer, dealer,
and/or repair center, to monitor the repairs of the respective
vehicles, maintain satisfactory inventories, and/or in other ways
utilize this information to better service their respective clients
and/or customers.
[0302] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, the
present invention can be utilized in order to provide remote
diagnostic services regarding the vehicle. The respective vehicle
service individuals and/or entities can access the vehicle via the
computer and/or communication device associated with the service
individual and/or entity and via the central processing computer.
Vehicle, vehicle system, vehicle device and/or vehicle component,
diagnostic data and/or information can be obtained at and/or from
the vehicle and can be transmitted back to the computer and/or
communication device of the service individual and/or entity, via
the central processing computer and/or directly. Thereafter, the
diagnostic data and/or information can be presented to and/or
diagnosed at and/or by the computer and/or communication device
associated with the service individual and/or entity. In this
manner, the present invention can be utilized in order to provide
remote vehicle repair diagnostics. In instances wherein a repair
can be effected by reprogramming a respective vehicle system,
device, and/or component, the service individual and/or entity can
then transmit an appropriate repair signal to the vehicle from the
computer and/or communication device associated with service
individual and/or entity, either directly and/or via the central
processing computer, to the CPU 4 located at the vehicle.
Thereafter, the CPU 4 can effect the reprogramming of the
respective vehicle system, device, and/or component. In this
manner, the apparatus and method of the present invention can be
utilized in order to effect remote diagnostics and repair of, for,
and regarding and/or all of the vehicles, motor vehicles, boats,
marine vessels, aircraft, equipment, structures, and/or premises
described herein.
[0303] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, the
apparatus and method of the present invention can be utilized in
conjunction with "smart" vehicle components and/or devices. These
"smart" components and/or devices can detect wear, state of
disrepair, and/or any other defined condition and/or state, of the
respective component and/or device. Upon the detection of a
condition or state for which an individual owner or operator may
desire and/or should be notified, the respective "smart" component
and/or device can generate and/or transmit an appropriate signal to
the CPU 4 which can then generate and transmit a signal to the
central processing computer. The central processing computer can
thereafter generate and/or transmit an appropriate signal to the
computer and/or communication device associated with the owner or
operator of the vehicle. In a reverse fashion, a vehicle owner or
operator and/or an agent thereof can access the "smart" component,
via the apparatus and method of the present invention can determine
the condition and/or state of the "smart" component.
[0304] FIG. 9 illustrates another preferred embodiment of the
present invention, wherein an arming device 15 and an activation
device 16 are utilized in conjunction with the components of the
apparatus 1 of FIG. 1. In FIG. 9, the arming device 15 is utilized
to arm, activate, or access the apparatus 1 and provides a means by
which to access the apparatus 1 separate and apart from the
transmitter 2/receiver 3 combination.
[0305] The arming device 15 may be a remote transmitter such as
those utilized in conjunction with anti-theft devices or systems
and/or alarm systems. The arming device 15 may also be a switch, a
card reader, including stripe card readers, proximity card readers,
turnstile card readers, insertion card readers, key and key
insertion devices and readers, magnetic card readers and/or optical
cards and/or card readers. The arming device 15 may also be a key
switch, a key pad, a keyless activation device with associated key,
and/or any other suitable device. The arming device may also be, or
include, a voice recognition device(s) or reader(s), voice
signature device(s) or reader(s), fingerprint recognition device(s)
or reader(s), handprint recognition device(s) or reader(s), hand
scanners and/or hand geometry readers. As with any of the above
devices and/or components, the arming device(s) may be directly
connected to the CPU 4 or may be linked to the CPU 4 via a wireless
communication link or medium.
[0306] It is also envisioned that, with a suitable arming device
15, such as a keypad or other device for data input, the authorized
user or operator may arm the apparatus 1 with a desired command
code. In this manner, a programmable arming device may be utilized
wherein apparatus operation, under the command of any of the
variety of possible command codes, can be made automatic and/or
programmable. An automatic activation may also be performed by an
appropriate code being transmitted to the apparatus 1 via the
transmitter 2 or transceiver.
[0307] The activation device 16 is chosen to correspond with the
arming device 15. In this regard, the activation device 16 may be a
switch, a key switch, a keypad, a suitable card reader, including
stripe card readers, proximity card readers, turnstile card
readers, insertion card readers, key and key insertion devices and
readers, magnetic card readers, optical card readers, insertion
card readers, optical readers as well as a keyless security device.
The activation device 16 is connected directly to the CPU 4 as
shown in FIG. 9 or it may be connected to the CPU 4 via a wireless
communication link or medium.
[0308] In certain circumstances, such as when a keypad, key switch
and/or any of the various cards and card readers are employed, the
arming device 15 and the activation device 16 may be one and the
same device and/or comprise one and the same combination of
devices.
[0309] The embodiment of FIG. 9 provides a mechanism by which an
authorized user or operator may arm, activate, and/or access the
apparatus 1. Upon the arming, activation or accessing of the
apparatus 1, the CPU 4 will, upon the activation of the vehicle
ignition system 7, monitor the activation device 16. After a
selected and predetermined time interval, chosen in the preferred
embodiment to be ten (10) seconds, has elapsed, if the user or
operator of the vehicle has failed to successfully activate the
activation device 16, either by activating the switch, by using the
associated key, by inputting a predetermined code (i.e. password or
pass code) into the keypad, or by utilizing the appropriate card or
key or other device corresponding to the utilized card reader or
other associated device, the CPU 4 will issue an appropriate
disabling and/or command signal to activate the apparatus 1
automatically so as to thereby disable the vehicle as described
above and so as to also activate the vehicle position and locating
device 13.
[0310] The command code may be pre-programmed as a default code
and/or may be operator selected and programmed in any manner
described above for user or operator entry of such a code. In this
regard, if an unauthorized user or operator fails to properly
activate the activation device 16, within the predetermined time
period, the CPU 4 will recognize such failure as that which results
from an unauthorized use or operation of the vehicle.
[0311] In the above-described manner, the embodiment of FIG. 9
provides a mechanism by which the apparatus 1, may be activated
automatically or self-activated. By utilizing the embodiment of
FIG. 9, the authorized user or operator, after arming the apparatus
1, need not perform a transmission of an access code and a command
code to the apparatus 1, as a default code, which is previously
chosen and/or programmed into the apparatus 1 will provide a
command signal to the CPU 4. As noted above, with an appropriate
arming device 15, the command code may be user selected and/or
programmable.
[0312] It is also important to note that the arming device
15/activation device 16 may be utilized to activate the apparatus 1
and/or any one or more of the vehicle systems, including the
ignition system 7, the fuel pump system 9, any one or more of the
various vehicle equipment systems 11 which are utilized in
conjunction with the apparatus 1, and/or the vehicle position and
locating device 13. In this regard, the arming device 15 and the
activation device 16 provide a mechanism by which to automatically
activate the apparatus 1 along with any other anti-theft system
utilized in the vehicle which may be controlled by the apparatus 1.
The vehicle position and locating device 13 may also be activated
by an automatic activation of the apparatus 1.
[0313] It is also possible to program the apparatus 1 with a
command code so that the apparatus will be programmed to become
activated, or de-activated, automatically, such as upon the
occurrence, or lack thereof, of a pre-defined event or occurrence
and/or at any desired time. If the apparatus 1 has been programmed
to become activated automatically, the transmitter 4A of the CPU 4
can transmit data relating to vehicle status, apparatus status, the
status of each of the vehicle systems utilized, as well as vehicle
position data, to a respective receiver which is utilized by the
authorized user or operator and/or at the receiver located at a
central security office. In this regard, the present invention
provides an apparatus and method by which a vehicle and/or a
premises can report a theft situation and/or occurrence by itself.
The apparatus can transmit a signal via transmitter 4A, or any
other suitable apparatus transmitter, to a user, operator, owner,
occupant or authorized office or individual of, and for, a
respective vehicle or premises.
[0314] The apparatus may also be designed or programmed to notify
the user, operator, owner, occupant, authorized central office or
individual with, or by, multiple communication devices, methods
and/or efforts. The apparatus may be designed or programmed to
telephone, telephone at an alternate phone and/or at a business
phone, beep or page, send a facsimile (fax) message transmission
to, send a voice message transmission to, send an electronic mail
message transmission to, and/or send a message to an answering
service for, a user, operator, owner, occupant, authorized central
office or individual of, and for, the respective vehicle or
premises.
[0315] In this regard, the apparatus may be designed or programmed
to telephone an owner, user, operator, occupant, or other
authorized central office individual or other authorized
individual, at a primary phone number, at an alternate or
forwarding phone number and/or at a business phone number, send a
beeper or pager message to the individual or central office and/or
send a facsimile, an electronic mail message, a voice mail message
and/or an answering service message to, or for, the individual or
central office. In this manner, the apparatus may report a theft
and/or a malfunction situation to the interested individual(s) by
utilizing multiple notification and/or reporting avenues so as to
provide and ensure that the interested individual(s) are in fact
notified as soon as possible.
[0316] The user, operator, owner or occupant of the respective
vehicle or premises may also activate the apparatus from the
vehicle or premises and transmit a signal to the receiver 955 of
the apparatus 950 at the central office and/or to the receiver 2C,
if necessary, so as to communicate with individuals at these
receiver locations and/or to report an emergency, a breakdown
and/or some other occurrence.
[0317] In this regard, the apparatus 1, when in the automatic
activation mode, or simply when being monitored and/or during a
status check, may transmit data to the appropriate and respective
devices. Further, in this regard, the apparatus 1 of the present
invention may be utilized to exercise and/or perform control,
monitoring and/or security functions, to report and/or to prevent a
vehicle theft and/or determine vehicle position and/or location, in
instances when the authorized user or operator is unaware of the
theft and/or does not have access to the apparatus or vehicle.
[0318] The apparatus and method of the present invention may also
be programmable for programmed and/or automatic activation,
self-activation, programmed and/or automatic operation and/or
self-operation. The apparatus and method of the present invention
may provide for an immediate, as well as for a deferred, control,
monitoring and/or security function, and/or response thereto, so as
to provide for the immediate and/or the deferred control,
activation, de-activation, programming, monitoring and/or security,
etc., of any one or more of the respective vehicle systems,
equipment, devices, appliances, etc., which may be utilized in the
above described embodiments as well any of the embodiments
described hereinbelow.
[0319] In yet another preferred embodiment of the present
invention, the vehicle position and locating device 13 includes a
plurality of global positioning devices which are strategically
located at various points and/or locations in, or on, the vehicle.
FIG. 10 illustrates another preferred embodiment of the vehicle
position and locating device which is denoted by the reference
numeral 130. In FIG. 10, the vehicle position and/or locating
device 130 includes five (5) global positioning devices 22A, 22B,
22C, 22D and 22E with corresponding global positioning receivers
23A, 23B, 23C, 23D and 23E, respectively, associated therewith. The
vehicle position and/or locating device 130 also includes position
data transmitter 24 and a digital map database 25.
[0320] Each of the global positioning devices 22A-22E is placed at
a different point and/or location in, or on, the vehicle. The
distances between each of the global positioning devices is
recorded and stored in the computer 21. Upon the activation of the
global positioning devices 22A-22E and the calculation of each
position or location of each device, the position data is
transmitted to, or read by, the computer 21, and a determination is
made as to whether the initially stored distances between the
devices have changed.
[0321] Any change in distance between any two or more of the
respective global positioning devices 22A-22E would represent that
the vehicle, or at least a portion thereof, has been dismantled, at
least in part, and possibly to a greater extent, depending upon the
resulting disparity in the respective distances. This information
may then be transmitted via transmitter 24 to the vehicle position
system receiver 14 and the authorized user or operator can be
notified of this condition. In this manner, it can be ascertained
if a vehicle has been dismantled, "chopped", or stripped, which
information may be vital in the recovery process, and in the
insurance claims process. The embodiment of FIG. 10 can also be
utilized in order to ascertain if the vehicle has been compacted or
"boxed." In this manner, the present invention may also be utilized
in order to determine if the vehicle has been structurally altered
in any manner.
[0322] The apparatus and the method of the present invention may
also be utilized in conjunction with a central security office or
agency, such as a private security service, or by local or regional
law enforcement offices or agencies, in order to provide a prompt
means by which to report a vehicle theft, provide for a manner in
which to disable and/or re-enable a vehicle system, and/or to
determine vehicle position and/or location so as to facilitate the
recovery of the vehicle. In such an embodiment, vehicle owners will
register their vehicles and any and all necessary information
pertaining thereto, including access and command codes, with the
central security office.
[0323] The present invention may also be utilized so as to provide
for a centralized control and/or monitoring of and/or for any of
the vehicle and/or premises described herein, and/or for prompt law
enforcement theft reporting, response to the theft report and/or
recovery of the respective vehicles described herein. FIG. 11A
illustrates another preferred embodiment of the present invention
wherein the apparatus 1 is utilized in conjunction with a central
processing computer which can be located at a central security
office or agency, such as a private security service, or by a local
or regional law enforcement office or agency. In FIG. 11A, the
apparatus 1 is utilized in conjunction with an associated apparatus
950 which, in the preferred embodiment, is located at the central
security office.
[0324] The apparatus 950 includes a receiver 955 which may, but
need not, be identical to the receiver 3 which is utilized in the
apparatus 1. The receiver 955 should be capable of receiving the
various codes which can be transmitted by the transmitter 2 or
transceiver (i.e. access code(s) and command code(s)) for any one
or for any number of vehicles which may be registered with the
central security office. The receiver 955 should be capable of
receiving the access code(s) and command code(s) for each
registered apparatus.
[0325] In the embodiment of FIG. 11A, the apparatus 950 also
includes a central processing computer 970, which is connected to
the receiver 955. The apparatus 950 also includes a vehicle
position system receiver 960 for receiving position data which is
transmitted from the vehicle position and locating device 13. The
position data system receiver 960 is also connected to the central
processing computer 970. The central processing computer 970 also
includes the requisite memory ROM and RAM devices (not shown). The
apparatus 950 also includes a display device 980, a user interface
device 975 and an output device 985 which can be a printer, all of
which devices are connected to the central processing computer 970
and are utilized in conjunction therewith.
[0326] The apparatus 950 also includes a transmitter 965 which is
connected to the central processing computer 970. The transmitter
965 serves to transmit data to the apparatus 1. The transmitter 965
may also be utilized to transmit data to the transmitter 2, to the
vehicle position system receiver 14 and/or to the home and/or
personal computer 150, if utilized. Such data which is transmitted
from the transmitter 965 may include the various access and command
codes and/or other codes, such as those codes for ascertaining the
status of the vehicle, the apparatus 1, or any one or more of the
vehicle systems which are controlled, monitored, and/or secured or
used in conjunction with the apparatus 1.
[0327] In the preferred embodiment, the receiver 955, the vehicle
position system receiver 960, and the transmitter 965 are the same
types of devices as those utilized in the apparatus of FIG. 1. In
this regard, the receivers 955 and 960, and the transmitter 965,
are devices for receiving, and transmitting, respectively, radio
signals, satellite communication signals, telecommunications
signals, optical communication signals and/or other signals and/or
those signals, including digital signals, which are utilized in
conjunction with personal communication devices and/or personal
communication services (PCS) devices. The devices utilized should,
however, be of the same type and/or operate compatibly with the
corresponding transmitters and receivers of the apparatus 1.
[0328] It is envisioned that the authorized user or operator will
register his or her vehicle with the apparatus 950 such as by
registering vehicle identification information along with vehicle
access and command code data along with any other pertinent
information described herein. Further, the receiver 955 is
programmed to receive any and all of the signals transmitted from
each one of the respective registered transmitters 2 of the
respectively registered vehicles.
[0329] The vehicle position system receiver 960 is programmed to
receive the vehicle position data which is transmitted by each one
of the respectively registered vehicle position and locating
devices 13 of each of the respectively registered vehicles.
[0330] The apparatus 950 is utilized in conjunction with the
apparatus 1 in the following manner. As noted above, the central
processing computer 970 is capable of recognizing all of the
possible access code(s) and command code(s) which are recognized by
the apparatus 1 for a particular vehicle. The apparatus 950 is
capable of storing vehicle identification information as well as
access code and command code data for a plurality of registered
vehicles.
[0331] Upon the occurrence of a vehicle theft, or the discovery
thereof, the authorized user or operator can access the apparatus 1
in the manner described above. In a first embodiment, the access
code is transmitted to and received at, the receiver 3 of apparatus
1 and at the receiver 955 of apparatus 950. Upon receipt of the
access code by both the receiver 3 and the receiver 950, both the
apparatus 1 and the apparatus 950, respectively, will be
accessed.
[0332] Applicant hereby incorporates by reference herein the
subject matter of U.S. Pat. No. 4,882,579 which teaches a code
division multiplexed acknowledge back (ack-back) paging system
which includes a central station which transmits a group of message
signals to a group of ack-back pagers which are addressed as a
group.
[0333] The signal received at the receiver 955 is transmitted to,
or read from, the central processing computer 970 of the apparatus
950. The central processing computer 970 will then identify the
vehicle which is stolen and/or which has been accessed. When the
authorized user or operator transmits the command code, the command
code is received at the receiver 955 of the apparatus 950 as well
as at the receiver 3 of the apparatus 1. In this regard, when the
apparatus 1 is processing the command code and performing the
functions corresponding thereto, the central processing computer
970 of the apparatus 950 is simultaneously and/or concurrently
processing the command code data so that the authorized personnel
monitoring the apparatus 950 will be aware of which command code
has been transmitted by the authorized user or operator and which
operations are being exercised and/or performed, or are to be
performed, on the vehicle (i.e., vehicle ignition system and/or
fuel pump system disabled, etc.). The authorized personnel
monitoring the apparatus 950 will also be aware of which operations
and/or systems, equipment, devices and/or appliances, are being
controlled, monitored and/or secured. The apparatus 950, in the
preferred embodiment, may also be utilized to exercise and/or
perform control, monitoring and/or security functions on, or over,
the vehicle and/or any of the vehicle systems, equipment, devices
and/or appliances.
[0334] Upon the transmission of the vehicle position data from the
vehicle position and locating device 13, the vehicle position data
will be transmitted to, and received by, the vehicle position
system receiver 960 of the apparatus 950 as well as by the vehicle
position system receiver 14 of the apparatus 1. The central
processing computer 970 of the apparatus 950 will process the
received vehicle position data simultaneously and/or concurrently
with the processing of said position data by the CPU 4 of the
apparatus 1.
[0335] In this regard, the vehicle position data can be processed
by, and at, the apparatus 950. Vehicle position data can then be
displayed to authorized personnel at the central security office on
the display device 980 or output via the output device 985 which
may be a printer. While operation of the apparatus 950 may be
automatic, authorized personnel may enter commands so as to provide
control over, or operate, the apparatus 950 via the user interface
975, if desired.
[0336] In this manner, vehicle location or movement may be
displayed, and/or tracked, on the display device 980 or output via
the output device 985 at the central security office. In this
regard, authorized personnel at the central security office or
agency could locate or track the vehicle and alert the proper
authorities.
[0337] In yet another embodiment, the access code may be only
transmitted to, and received by, the receiver 955 of the apparatus
950. The apparatus 1 may then be accessed and controlled via access
and command codes which are transmitted by the transmitter 965 of
the apparatus 950 which access and command codes are received by
the receiver 3 of the respective vehicle. In this embodiment, the
authorized personnel may provide control over the apparatus 1 by
inputting data and commands into the user interface 975. In this
embodiment, the vehicle position data and any data transmitted by
the CPU 4 of the apparatus 1, is transmitted to, and received by,
the vehicle position receiver system 960 and/or at the vehicle
position system receiver 14, respectively.
[0338] In yet another embodiment, the access code may be
transmitted and received only at the receiver 3 thereby accessing
the apparatus 1. The vehicle transmitter 3A then transmits a data
signal to the receiver 955 of the apparatus 950 thereby alerting
the apparatus 950 that the vehicle has been stolen. Command code
data as well as other data may then be transmitted to the apparatus
1 via the transmitter 965 of the apparatus 950. The apparatus 950
may be designed to operate and/or perform any and all of the
described functions automatically and without operator
intervention. Vehicle position data may then be received by the
vehicle position receiver system 960 and/or at the vehicle position
system receiver 14, respectively. The vehicle position data may
then be processed at the central processing computer 970 of the
apparatus 950 and/or at the computer 31 of the vehicle position
system receiver 14.
[0339] In this manner, the apparatus 950 can serve to provide
control over, and monitor the functions of, the apparatus 1 for a
vehicle or for a plurality of vehicles, and further, the apparatus
950 provides the means by which to allow a central security office
or local or regional law enforcement office or agency to exercise
and/or perform control, monitoring and/or security functions over
the vehicles which are registered therewith. The apparatus and
method of the present invention may also be utilized to monitor the
operational status, operation and/or state or status of a one or
more of the various vehicle systems, components and/or devices. In
the case where the apparatus 1 is automatically activated, as
described above, the apparatus 1 can transmit a signal, indicative
of vehicle theft and/or an unauthorized use or operation of the
vehicle, to the apparatus 950 thereby reporting the unauthorized
use or operation, or theft, before the authorized user or operator
is able to discover same.
[0340] The apparatus 950 may also be utilized so as to verify and
monitor apparatus accessing and/or activation by the authorized
user or operator. The authorized user or operator may "call" the
central security office simply to determine the status and/or the
whereabouts or location of his or her vehicle. Both the apparatus 1
and the apparatus 950 can provide the same functions and exercise
the same control, monitoring, and/or security functions over the
vehicle.
[0341] The above-described preferred embodiment, wherein the
present invention is utilized in conjunction with a central
security office, such as a private security agency, or a local or
regional law enforcement office, agency and/or authority, provides
for and facilitates a prompt and an immediate reporting of a
vehicle theft or unauthorized use, and/or provides for ascertaining
the status and/or the location of and/or the monitoring of the
vehicle. This embodiment also allows the authorized user or
operator to take any of the possible steps by which to report
and/or to thwart the vehicle theft and activate a vehicle recovery
system. Law enforcement efforts could be greatly assisted and
enhanced as information which identifies the vehicle could then be
immediately available to the central security office and/or to the
local or regional law enforcement authorities. Such an embodiment
could also greatly assist in processing insurance claims relating
to stolen vehicles.
[0342] The apparatus 950 may also be utilized in connection with an
on-line service and/or on, or over, the Internet and/or the World
Wide Web, or other suitable communication network or medium, in a
manner analogous to that described above in connection with the
utilization of a home and/or a personal computer 150.
[0343] FIG. 11B illustrates yet another preferred embodiment of the
present invention wherein the apparatus of FIG. 11A is utilized in
conjunction with an on-line service and/or on, or over, the
Internet and/or the World Wide Web or other suitable communication
network or medium. In FIG. 11B, the home and/or personal computer
150 of FIG. 5A is utilized in place of the transmitter 2 or
transceiver and the vehicle position system receiver 14. The
apparatus 950 has associated therewith an on-line service and/or an
Internet computer system or server 952 with an associated server
receiver 953 and transmitter 957 for receiving and transmitting,
respectively, any and all data utilized in conjunction with the
operation of the server 952, the apparatus 1 and the apparatus
950.
[0344] The transmitter 957 transmits any and all appropriate
signals to the appropriate and respective devices of the
arrangement of FIG. 11B during apparatus operation. In this regard,
the server 952 can exercise and/or perform control, monitoring
and/or security functions on, or over, the apparatus 1 and the
apparatus 950 and also provide for an apparatus which can be
utilized, in its entirety, over an on-line service and/or on, or
over, the Internet and/or the World Wide Web or other suitable
communication network or medium. In FIG. 11B, a Web Site 954 is
associated with the server 952.
[0345] Any and all data received by the receiver 955 is also
received by the server receiver 953. Data which is transmitted by
the home and/or personal computer 150, the CPU transmitter 4A, the
receiver transmitter 3A and the vehicle position and locating
device transmitter 24 are received by the server receiver 953 as
well as by the receivers 955 and 960, respectively.
[0346] The server 952 will process the data received by the server
receiver 953 and perform the same processing functions and/or
computing functions as the central processing computer 970, the CPU
4, and/or the computer 150.
[0347] The user may transmit data, via the home and/or personal
computer 150, directly to the apparatus 1, to the apparatus 950
and/or to the server 952. By using the computer 150 in conjunction
with an appropriate communications medium, the authorized user or
operator may access the server 952 via the on-line service and/or
via the associated Web site 954, or in any other appropriate
manner, so as to provide control over, and/or obtain any and all of
the above-described data and/or information regarding, his or her
vehicle over the on-line service and/or on, or over, the Internet
and/or the World Wide Web or other suitable communication network
or medium.
[0348] The authorized user or operator may also access and provide
control over or exercise and/or perform control, monitoring and/or
security functions on, or over, the apparatus 1, the apparatus 950
and/or the server 952 via the on-line service and/or via the Web
Site 954. In this regard, the present invention enables an
authorized user or operator to provide control over vehicle systems
and/or monitor the vehicle system status and/or position and/or
movement of the vehicle over an on-line service and/or on, or over,
the Internet and/or the World Wide Web or other suitable
communication network or medium. The apparatus transmitters, of the
transmitter 2, the receiver 3, the CPU 4, and the vehicle position
and locating device 13, once the apparatus 1 has been activated,
may also transmit data directly to the receiver 953 of the server
952 and/or to the Web Site 954. In this manner, all of the data
transmitted by the apparatus 1 and/or by the apparatus 950 can be
supplied to the server 952 of the on-line service and/or the
Internet and/or the Web Site 954 of the World Wide Web.
[0349] Data access and command code data, as well as other data,
may also be transmitted by the authorized user or operator, via the
respective apparatus transmitters to the receiver 953 of the server
952 and/or to the Web Site 954.
[0350] The server 952 can perform complete control, monitoring
and/or security functions on, or over, the apparatus 1, the
apparatus 950, the vehicle, and/or each of the vehicle systems. The
apparatus and method of the present invention may be equipped with
software and hardware for providing a systematic check of any and
all of the apparatus and vehicle systems, including the status or
state of the vehicle equipment systems, equipment, devices and/or
appliances and provide data relating thereto to the user or
operator and/or to the authorized individual(s) at the
above-described central security office. The server transmitter 957
can transmit control signals and/or other data, including
information to the authorized user or operator and to the apparatus
1 and/or to the apparatus 950. It is also envisioned that the
server 952 and the central processing computer 970 may be combined
into a single central computer system.
[0351] In the above manner, the apparatus and method of the present
invention provides a remote-controlled control, monitoring and/or
security system, or vehicle anti-theft and/or vehicle recovery
apparatus and method, for use in conjunction with an on-line
service and/or on, or over, the Internet and/or the World Wide Web
or other suitable communication network or medium. In this manner,
the apparatus and method of the present invention also provides for
a remote-controlled control, monitoring and/or security system
which provides visual, video, graphical, audio and/or audible
information to the user. Use over the Internet and/or the World
Wide Web and/or other related communication systems and/or mediums
and/or over on-line services provides for global coverage, control,
monitoring and/or security for the vehicle.
[0352] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, the
present invention can be utilized in order to provide control over
and/or to monitor, the vehicle, any of the vehicle systems,
devices, and/or components, vehicle operating status, the operating
status of the vehicle's systems, devices, and/or components, video
and/or audio inside the vehicle, video and/or audio outside the
vehicle, video and/or audio in the vicinity of the vehicle, to
provide video conferencing with individuals inside, outside, and/or
in the vicinity of the vehicle, to provide notification to a
vehicle owner and/or operator of a an operational status and/or
state of disrepair of the vehicle and/or a vehicle system, device,
and/or component, to provide for remote vehicle diagnostic and/or
repair functions, to provide notification from the vehicle CPU 4
regarding vehicle operation, operational status of the vehicle
and/or any of the vehicle systems, devices, and/or components.
[0353] The present invention can also be utilized in order to
provide video and/or audio confirmation and/or verification of
and/or for any control, monitoring, and/or security, operation
and/or activity which can be effected and/or facilitated via the
apparatus of the present invention. In this manner, a user of the
present invention who may, for example, effect a control or
monitoring function involving the vehicle (i.e. starting the
engine, turning on the lights, activating the alarm, turning off
the engine, turning the vehicle, and so on, etc.) can obtain a
video and/or audio confirmation at and/or from the vehicle that the
operation has been effected.
[0354] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, the
respective vehicle equipment system(s) and/or the command computer
can ascertain a state of disrepair in any vehicle system, device,
and/or component, and can provide notification to the CPU 4. The
CPU 4 can then generate and/or transmit an appropriate notification
signal to the central processing computer servicing the vehicle.
The central processing computer can thereafter generate and/or
transmit an appropriate signal and/or message to the computer
and/or communication device associated with the vehicle owner or
operator.
[0355] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, the
apparatus of the present invention can be utilized in order to
notify the manufacturer, dealer, and/or repair center of a state of
disrepair, thereby allowing the respective manufacturer, dealer,
and/or repair center, to monitor the repairs of the respective
vehicles, maintain satisfactory inventories, and/or in other ways
utilize this information to better service their respective clients
and/or customers.
[0356] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, the
present invention can be utilized in order to provide remote
diagnostic services regarding the vehicle. The respective vehicle
service individuals and/or entities can access the vehicle via the
computer and/or communication device associated with the service
individual and/or entity and via the central processing
computer.
[0357] Vehicle, vehicle system, vehicle device and/or vehicle
component, diagnostic data and/or information can be obtained at
and/or from the vehicle and can be transmitted back to the computer
and/or communication device of the service individual and/or
entity, via the central processing computer and/or directly.
Thereafter, the diagnostic data and/or information can be presented
to and/or diagnosed at and/or by the computer and/or communication
device associated with the service individual and/or entity. In
this manner, the present invention can be utilized in order to
provide remote vehicle repair diagnostics.
[0358] In instances wherein a repair can be effected by
reprogramming a respective vehicle system, device, and/or
component, the service individual and/or entity can then transmit
an appropriate repair signal to the vehicle from the computer
and/or communication device associated with service individual
and/or entity, either directly and/or via the central processing
computer, to the CPU 4 located at the vehicle. Thereafter, the CPU
4 can effect the reprogramming of the respective vehicle system,
device, and/or component. In this manner, the apparatus and method
of the present invention can be utilized in order to effect remote
diagnostics and repair of, for, and regarding and/or all of the
vehicles, motor vehicles, boats, marine vessels, aircraft,
equipment, structures, and/or premises described herein.
[0359] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, the
apparatus and method of the present invention can be utilized in
conjunction with "smart" vehicle components and/or devices. These
"smart" components and/or devices can detect wear, state of
disrepair, and/or any other defined condition and/or state, of the
respective component and/or device. Upon the detection of a
condition or state for which an individual owner or operator may
desire and/or should be notified, the respective "smart" component
and/or device can generate and/or transmit an appropriate signal to
the CPU 4 which can then generate and transmit a signal to the
central processing computer. The central processing computer can
thereafter generate and/or transmit an appropriate signal to the
computer and/or communication device associated with the owner or
operator of the vehicle. In a reverse fashion, a vehicle owner or
operator and/or an agent thereof can access the "smart" component,
via the apparatus and method of the present invention can determine
the condition and/or state of the "smart" component.
[0360] In another preferred embodiment, the vehicle equipment
system(s) 11 can also include a vehicle operation data monitoring
device which monitors vehicle operation such as vehicle speed, the
status of any of the vehicle systems (i.e. ignition system, fuel
pump system, positioning system), and/or any of the vehicle
equipment systems described herein, direction of travel, attitude
of travel, video inside, outside, and/or at, the vehicle, audio
inside, outside, and/or at, the vehicle, activity inside, outside,
and/or at, the vehicle, and/or any other electrical, mechanical,
electromechanical, hydraulic, and/or other system, equipment
system, device, component, and/or appliance.
[0361] The vehicle operation data monitoring device can be
connected to, and/or linked with, any of the herein-described
systems, equipment systems, subsystems, devices, components, and/or
appliances, including, but not limited to, speedometer, cruise
control device, gyroscope, gyrocompass, directional light
device(s), light system(s), door lock system(s), attitude measuring
device(s), ignition system, braking system, electronic system(s),
hydraulic system(s), video recording device(s) or camera(s), audio
recording device(s) or microphone(s), and/or any other systems,
equipment systems, devices, components, and/or appliances,
described herein and/or otherwise, for controlling and/or
monitoring the operation of same and/or for monitoring activity at
the vehicle.
[0362] The vehicle operation data monitoring device can operate
and/or function in a manner similar to, and/or analogous to, an
aircraft flight data recorder in monitoring and/or recording
operation data. In addition, the vehicle operation data monitoring
device can receive any and/or all of the data monitored and
transmit same to the any of the herein-described transmitters 2,
home and/or personal computers 150, and/or any of the server
computers 510, computers 970, and/or server computers 952, and/or
any other computers and/or communication devices, which can be
utilized to receive this data and/or information. In this manner,
the vehicle operation and/or movement can be monitored by, and/or
at, any of the herein-described transmitters, home and/or personal
computers, computers, and/or server computers.
[0363] The vehicle operation data monitoring device can transmit
any and/or all vehicle operation data to a respective
transmitter(s), home and/or personal computer(s), computer(s),
and/or server computer(s), in real-time, live, in a time-delayed
manner, and/or in any other appropriate manner. The vehicle
operation data monitoring device can also record and/or store any
of the operation data monitored thereby.
[0364] Any data and/or information which is received from the
vehicle operation data monitoring device can be stored at any of
the herein-described transmitters 2, home and/or personal computers
150, and/or any of the server computers 510, computers 970, and/or
server computers 952, and/or any other computers and/or
communication devices, which can be utilized to receive this data.
The data and/or information which is received from the vehicle
operation data monitoring device can be stored in any suitable
manner which can typically involve storing same digitally, storing
same digitally in an overwriting manner, so that, for example, the
data can be stored and/or overwritten for a given time period and
overwriting same, storing same in a looping and/or re-circulating
storage medium or tape, storing same in a manner utilized in
conjunction with, and/or similar to, the manner in which data
and/or information is stored in aircraft flight data recorders
and/or aircraft cockpit voice recorders.
[0365] The vehicle operation data monitoring device can be accessed
by any of the herein-described transmitters, home and/or personal
computers, computers, and/or server computers, and/or the
individuals utilizing same, in order to monitor and/or ascertain
vehicle operation, and/or video and/or audio activity inside,
outside, and/or at, the vehicle, at any time and/or to retrieve
and/or to access operating data regarding vehicle operation and/or
movement, and/or video and/or audio activity inside, outside,
and/or at, the vehicle, which has been recorded and/or stored by
the vehicle operation data monitoring device. For example, vehicle
operating data and/or information, along with video and/or audio
information inside, outside, and/or at the vehicle, can be accesses
and/or obtained.
[0366] The vehicle operation data monitoring device can be utilized
to monitor vehicle operation, to investigate a malfunction, to
diagnosis a malfunction or other problem, to investigate a cause of
an accident, and/or can be utilized for any other purpose.
[0367] In a preferred embodiment, the vehicle operation data
monitoring device can be programmed to monitor vehicle operation
data and/or to transmit same to any respective transmitter, home
and/or personal computer, computer, central computer, and/or server
computer, continuously, at certain times, and/or under certain
conditions, such as a detection by the CPU 4 and/or by the vehicle
operation data monitor.
[0368] The vehicle operation data monitoring device can also be
activated remotely by any individual via any respective
transmitter, home and/or personal computer, computer, central
computer, and/or server computer, and/or user of same. The vehicle
operation data monitoring device can also be activated by a vehicle
operator and/or occupant and/or via any other individual.
[0369] The data and/or information obtained from the vehicle
operation data monitoring device can be stored at any of the
respective transmitters, home and/or personal computers, computers,
central computers, and/or server computers, for accessing at any
time. The data and/or information can be stored at the vehicle
operation data monitoring device, and/or at any of the
herein-described and respective transmitters, home and/or personal
computers, computers, central computers, and/or server computers,
in a "loop tape" manner and/or digitally in a looping and/or data
overwriting manner so that, for example, only a most recent time
period is recorded.
[0370] The vehicle operation data monitoring device can be utilized
in conjunction with the present invention so as to obtain, to
record, and/or access, and/or analyze, vehicle operation data at
the vehicle and/or from a location remote from the vehicle, in a
network environment, thereby facilitating the monitoring and/or the
analysis of vehicle operation data.
[0371] In yet another preferred embodiment, the present invention
is utilized in conjunction with a marine vessel or vehicle. FIG. 12
illustrates another preferred embodiment of the present invention,
wherein the apparatus and method is utilized in conjunction with a
boat. In FIG. 12, the apparatus is denoted generally by the
reference numeral 1200. While the boat described below is a
motor-powered boat, any type of boat, including, but not limited to
sailboats, may also be utilized in conjunction with the present
invention.
[0372] In FIG. 12, the components of the apparatus 1200 which are
common to the apparatus 1 of FIG. 1 are designated by the same
reference numerals. In FIG. 12, the CPU 4 is electrically connected
and/or linked to the boat ignition system 1207, which is located
externally from the apparatus 1200. The CPU 4 may or may not be
connected and/or linked with the boat ignition system 1207 through
an ignition system interface 1208 which is also shown in FIG. 12.
The CPU 4 may transmit signals to, as well as receive signals from,
the boat ignition system 1207. In this manner, the CPU 4 and the
boat ignition system 1207, may exchange information between each
other. In this manner, the CPU 4, upon receiving an appropriate
signal from the receiver 3, and upon the completion of the
requisite data processing routine(s), may issue an electrical, an
electronic, and/or any other suitable signal, including a digital
command signal, to the boat ignition system 1207. This electrical,
electronic and/or other suitable signal, or digital command signal,
may be one which will disable the boat ignition system 1207 or one
which will re-enable or reset the boat ignition system 1207. The
CPU 4 may also interrogate the boat ignition system 1207 and/or
receive data from the boat ignition system 1207 which is indicative
of boat ignition system status (i.e., whether the boat ignition
system 1207 is on or off).
[0373] In the preferred embodiment, the CPU 4 is also electrically
connected and/or linked to the boat fuel pump system 1209 which is
also located externally from the apparatus 1. The CPU 4 may or may
not be connected and/or linked with the boat fuel pump system 1209
through a fuel pump system interface 1210 which is also shown in
FIG. 12. In the case of an electrical or an electronic fuel pump
system, the CPU 4 may provide an electrical, an electronic, and/or
other suitable signal, including a digital signal, which will
disable or re-enable the boat fuel pump system 1209.
[0374] In the case of a mechanical fuel pump system, the CPU 4 may
provide an electrical, electronic, and/or other suitable signal,
including a digital signal, which will disable or re-enable an
electrical valve system, which may be used to control the operation
of the mechanical fuel pump system. Whichever the case may be, the
CPU 4 will be capable of issuing an electrical, electronic and/or
other suitable signal, including a digital signal, to disable or to
re-enable the boat fuel pump system 1209. The CPU 4 may also
interrogate and/or receive data from the boat fuel pump system 1209
which is indicative of boat fuel pump system status (i.e., whether
the boat fuel pump system 1209 is on or off). The CPU 4 may also be
electrically connected and/or linked to an appropriate device (not
shown) for controlling the operation of a boat exhaust system.
[0375] The CPU 4, in the preferred embodiment, is also electrically
connected and/or linked to at least one or more of a boat equipment
system(s) 1211. The boat equipment system(s) 1211 are located
externally from the apparatus 1 and may or may not be connected
and/or linked to the CPU 4, via a boat equipment system(s)
interface device(s) 1212 which may or may not be required for each
one of the variety or multitude of the boat equipment systems which
may be utilized in conjunction with the apparatus.
[0376] The boat equipment system(s) 1211 may include a loud siren
or alarm, which may be located in the cabin or passenger
compartment of the boat and, which may produce a loud piercing
sound so as to make it unbearable for an intruder to remain inside
the boat cabin and/or passenger compartment. The boat equipment
system 1211 may also include an external siren or alarm, which may
produce a loud piercing sound, which may be utilized to draw
attention to the boat. The boat equipment system 1211 may also
include a horn, which may blare continuously or intermittently, so
as to also draw attention to the boat. The boat equipment system(s)
1211 can also include "smart" windows which turn opaque and/or
darker depending upon interior lighting.
[0377] The boat external light system(s), which may include the
boat head lights, tail lights or flashers, which may be constantly
illuminated or which may blink on and off repeatedly so as to draw
attention to the boat, may also be utilized as a boat equipment
system 1211. The boat equipment system 1211 may also include a
power door or hatch locking system, including electronic and/or
electrical dead bolt locking devices, for securing the boat cabin,
cockpit or passenger compartment so as to prevent an entry
thereunto or an exit therefrom. In addition, the boat equipment
system(s) 1211 may include an engine compartment locking device,
such as an electrical and/or mechanical locking device, for
preventing unauthorized access into the boat engine compartment, so
as to prevent any tampering with the apparatus 1 or with other
systems and/or components of the boat.
[0378] The boat equipment system(s) 1211 may also include any one
or more of the widely known boat anti-theft systems and may also
include a boat recovery system or device, including a homing and/or
a tracking system, each of which system(s) may be activated by the
apparatus 1200 of the present invention. The boat equipment
system(s) 1211 may also include communication devices, such as
two-way radios, radios, televisions, navigational devices and/or
equipment, fire extinguishing equipment, pumping devices for
pumping water out of the boat, radar devices and equipment,
emergency and/or distress signal equipment, sonar devices and/or
equipment, and any electrical, electronic and/or otherwise
activated appliances and/or equipment which may be utilized on a
boat. Appliances may include household appliances such as
refrigerators, stoves, air conditioners, ovens, microwave ovens,
lighting systems, etc. The boat equipment system(s) 1211 may also
include systems for detecting failures in any of the above or any
other equipment systems and report such failures to the user or
operator whether he or she is operating the boat or is not onboard
the boat and/or for reporting such failures to a central
office.
[0379] The boat equipment system(s) 1211 may also include video
recording and/or photographing equipment, which may include video
recording device(s) and/or a camera(s), such as those utilized in
conjunction with personal computers, televisions, digital
televisions, interactive televisions, display telephones, video
telephones, and/or other communication devices, including personal
communication devices, or a still picture camera(s). The video
recording device(s) or camera(s) may be digital recording devices
or cameras or other suitable devices or cameras, including typical
video recording devices or cameras. The video recording device(s)
or camera(s), in a preferred embodiment, has associated therewith a
transceiver or transmitter/receiver system for transmitting video
images recorded by the video recording device(s) or camera(s) to
the user or operator and for receiving signals such as, for
example, control signals, by which the user or operator may
exercise control over the video recording device(s) or
camera(s).
[0380] The video recording device(s) or camera(s) may be located at
any location on the interior of the boat such as, for example, in
the cabin, cockpit, and/or passenger compartment of the boat so
that the user or operator, or any other authorized individual, may
observe and/or photograph the operator of the boat, or the
occupants and/or cargo of the boat. The video recording(s) or
camera(s) may also be located on the boat exterior. The video
recording device(s) or camera(s) may have wide angles for maximum
angular viewing and may also be pivotable and/or movable. The video
device(s) or camera(s) can be moveable along a track or other
guiding device or element so that the respective video recording
device or camera can be moved along the boat interior or exterior.
The video recording device(s) or camera(s) may record and/or
transmit the recorded video and/or the picture(s) in real time
and/or live. The video recording device(s) or camera(s) may also be
equipped with a storage medium, for storing the recorded video
and/or picture(s), and a transmitter or transceiver for
transmitting the stored video and/or picture(s) to the user or
operator at a later time. In this manner, real-time, as well as
deferred, video and/or picture(s) transmissions may be
provided.
[0381] The boat equipment system(s) 1211 may also include audio
recording equipment, which may include audio recording device(s)
such as microphones and/or tape recorders, such as those utilized
in conjunction with personal computers, televisions, digital
televisions, interactive televisions, telephones, cellular
telephones, display telephones, video telephones, and/or other
communication devices, including personal communication devices.
The audio recording device(s) may be digital audio recording
devices or other suitable audio devices including typical audio
recording devices. The audio recording device(s), in a preferred
embodiment, has associated therewith a transceiver or
transmitter/receiver system for transmitting the recorded audio to
the user or operator and for receiving signals such as, for
example, control signals, by which the user or operator may
exercise control over the audio recording device(s).
[0382] The audio recording device(s) may be located at any location
on the interior and/or exterior of the boat so that the user or
operator, or any other authorized individual, may hear what is
transpiring, and/or what has transpired, inside and/or outside the
boat. The audio recording device(s) may also be pivotable and/or
movable. The audio device(s) or microphone(s) can be moveable along
a track or other guiding device or element so that the respective
audio recording device or microphone can be moved along the boat
interior or exterior. The audio recording device(s) may record
and/or transmit the recorded audio in real time and/or live. The
audio recording device(s) may also be equipped with a storage
medium, for storing the recorded audio, and a transmitter or
transceiver for transmitting the stored audio at a later time. In
this manner, real-time as well as deferred audio transmissions may
be provided.
[0383] The boat equipment system(s) 1211 may also include an
intercom system or device or telephone, cellular, digital or
otherwise for providing a means by which to allow the user or
operator, or other authorized operator, to communicate with the
operator and/or occupants of the boat. The boat equipment system
1211 can also include video conferencing devices and/or equipment
for enabling the boat occupants and/or individuals inside the boat,
outside the boat, and/or in the vicinity of the boat, to engage in
and/or partake in video conferences and/or video conferencing with
others via a communication network.
[0384] The boat equipment system(s) 1211 can also include the boat
battery or batteries, boat fuel cell or fuel cells, battery
monitoring equipment, battery charge level, fuel cell output, fuel
cell fuel supply, fuel cell temperature measuring device, fuel cell
by-product (i.e. water or other by-product, heat, etc.) measuring
device, fuel cell output measuring device (i.e. voltmeter, ammeter,
current measure, power meter, etc.), a boat rudder, a rudder
control and/or monitoring device, a depth sounding device and/or
depth sounding control and/or monitoring device, a navigation
system, a navigation control and/or monitoring system, an automatic
pilot, a radar system, a sonar system, boat data recorder, a boat
data recorder control and/or monitoring device, a boat cockpit
voice recorder, a boat cockpit voice recorder control and/or
monitoring device, an emergency oxygen control and/or monitoring
device, an emergency oxygen deployment detection device, an air bag
deployment device, an air bag deployment detection device, a boat
dashboard or control console display device, a gyroscope for
measuring boat pitch, roll, yaw, or attitude, a gyrocompass for
measuring direction of travel, a boat data recorder and/or a boat
operation data recorder.
[0385] The boat equipment system(s) 1211 may also include
monitoring device(s) for reading and/or monitoring the status
and/or condition of any of the boat fuel supply, water and/or
coolant supply, electrical generator and/or alternator operation,
battery charge level, fuel cell electrical power output, fuel cell
fuel supply level, fuel cell operating temperature, fuel cell
by-product output level, and/or engine or motor temperature level,
marine control system and/or any other boat operation and/or system
function and/or boat equipment system(s) operating status and/or
condition. The monitoring device(s), in a preferred embodiment, has
associated therewith a transceiver or transmitter/receiver system
for transmitting data and/or information recorded and/or read by
the monitoring device(s) to the user or operator and for receiving
signals such as, for example, control signals, by which the user or
operator may exercise control over the monitoring device(s).
[0386] The boat equipment system(s) 1211 may also include
communication devices, such as two-way radios, radios, televisions,
navigational devices and/or equipment, fire extinguishing
equipment, radar devices and equipment, emergency and/or distress
signal equipment, and any electrical, electronic and/or otherwise
activated appliances and/or equipment which may be utilized in a
boat or marine vessel. Appliances may include household appliances
such as refrigerators, stoves, air conditioners, ovens, microwave
ovens, lighting systems, etc. The boat equipment system(s) 1211 may
also include electrical and/or electronically controlled dead bolt
locking devices for use on doors, windows, and/or in conjunction
with any other opening components and/or components for gaining
access to various locations and/or in, and/or any systems, devices,
and/or components of, the boat.
[0387] The boat equipment system(s) 1211 can also include
transponders, communication transponders, navigation transponders,
and/or beacons.
[0388] The boat equipment system(s) 1211 may also include locks for
preventing use and/or access to various locations, systems,
devices, and/or components of the boat. The boat equipment systems
may also include hydraulic and/or pneumatic equipment and/or other
equipment, including winches, etc., which may be remotely activated
as described herein. The boat equipment system(s) 1211 may also
include boat communication devices including, but not limited to
radios, televisions and entertainment devices, two-way radios,
cellular telephones and equipment, etc. The boat equipment
system(s) 1211 may also include systems for detecting failures in
any of the above, or any other, equipment systems and report such
failure(s) to the user or operator whether he or she is operating
the boat or is not in the boat and/or for reporting such failures
to a central office.
[0389] The boat equipment system(s) 1211 can also include the boat
command computer which is utilized to control and/or to the various
electronic, electrical, mechanical, and/or electromechanical
systems, components, devices, of the boat. The command computer can
control and monitor any of the systems, components, and/or devices,
of the boat, including, but not limited to, the ignition system,
the fuel system, fuel injection system, electrical systems for
ignition, lights, horn, door locks, exhaust system, windows, fuel
pump, oil pump, engine timing device, battery, fuel cells, fuel
supply device, video recording equipment, audio recording
equipment, boat integrated positioning device, and/or any other
system, device, or component which can be controlled and/or
monitored by the command computer.
[0390] The command computer can transmit control signals and/or
status request signals to any of the herein-described boat systems,
components and/or devices so as to respectively control and/or
monitor the operating status and/or condition of the respective
system, component and/or device. The command computer can also
receive signals from the respective systems, devices and/or
components, with said signals containing data and/or information
concerning the operating status, operating state, and/or condition,
of the respective systems, devices and/or components. The command
computer can be utilized so as to control, monitor, and/or provide
diagnostic information for any of the boat systems, components,
and/or devices, which are controlled and/or monitored with the
command computer.
[0391] The boat equipment system(s) 1211 can also include wear
and/or usage indicators and/or detection devices which can be
connected with either the command computer and/or the central
processing computer and which can be utilized so as to monitor the
wear and/or usage of any of the herein-described electronic,
electrical, mechanical, and/or electromechanical, systems, devices,
and/or components.
[0392] The boat equipment system(s) 1211 can also include automatic
control devices for controlling and/or monitoring boat systems
and/or devices for boat movement and/or motion, such as, but not
limited to, boat motor and/or transmission system for controlling
boat forward and/or reverse direction of movement, boat
acceleration system for controlling speed of movement, boat rudder
system and/or boat steering system, boat pump system, and/or any
other system and/or component for controlling and/or for effecting
remote-control over the movement, motion and/or operation of the
boat.
[0393] In the case of commercial equipment, industrial equipment,
drilling equipment, mining equipment, excavating equipment, and/or
other commercial equipment, the boat equipment system(s) 1211 may
also include loading and/or unloading mechanisms, cutting
mechanisms, bailing mechanisms, winches and any and all of the
various systems and devices utilized in conjunction with these
boats and/or equipment.
[0394] As noted above, the use of any one or more of the boat
equipment system or systems 1211, and their associated interface
devices 1212, may be optional and may further include any other
systems and/or devices which may, or are, utilized in and/or in
conjunction with any of the above noted or envisioned vehicles. The
boat equipment system(s) 1211, especially when the apparatus is
utilized in conjunction with law enforcement and/or military
vehicles, may also include guns and/or weapon systems and/or self
defense systems and electronic warfare systems.
[0395] As noted above, the use of any one or more of the boat
equipment system(s) 1211, and their associated interface devices
1212, may be optional. Further, wireless devices may be utilized
for any of the devices utilized in conjunction with the apparatus
1200.
[0396] The boat equipment system(s) 1211 receives signals from the
CPU 4, which signals serve to activate or de-activate, or vice
versa, whichever the case may be, the respective boat equipment
system(s) which are utilized in conjunction with the apparatus
1200. The boat equipment system(s) 1211 may also include any other
suitable boat system or equipment feature which may be utilized to
draw attention to the boat and/or in some other way to impede boat
theft. It should be noted that any of the interface devices 1208,
1210 and 1212 may include any of the requisite interfacing
circuitry which may be necessary to facilitate CPU 4 control over
the respective systems which may be utilized.
[0397] In another preferred embodiment, the boat equipment
system(s) 1211 can also include a boat operation data monitoring
device which monitors boat operation such as boat speed, the status
of any of the boat systems (i.e. ignition system, fuel pump system,
positioning system), and/or any of the boat equipment systems
described herein, direction of travel, attitude of travel, video
inside, outside, and/or at, the boat, audio inside, outside, and/or
at, the boat, activity inside, outside, and/or at, the boat, and/or
any other electrical, mechanical, electromechanical, hydraulic,
and/or other system, equipment system, device, component, and/or
appliance.
[0398] The boat operation data monitoring device can be connected
to, and/or linked with, any of the herein-described systems,
equipment systems, subsystems, devices, components, and/or
appliances, including, but not limited to, speedometer, cruise
control device, rudder, gyroscope, gyrocompass, directional light
device(s), light system(s), door lock system(s), depth sounding
measurement devices, attitude measuring device(s), ignition system,
braking system, electronic system(s), hydraulic system(s), video
recording device(s) or camera(s), audio recording device(s) or
microphone(s), and/or any other systems, equipment systems,
devices, components, and/or appliances, described herein and/or
otherwise, for controlling and/or monitoring the operation of same
and/or for monitoring activity at the boat.
[0399] The boat operation data monitoring device can operate and/or
function in a manner similar to, and/or analogous to, an aircraft
flight data recorder in monitoring and/or recording operation data.
In addition, the boat operation data monitoring device can receive
any and/or all of the data monitored and transmit same to the any
of the herein-described transmitters 2, home and/or personal
computers 150, and/or any of the server computers 510, computers
970, and/or server computers 952, and/or any other computers and/or
communication devices, which can be utilized to receive this data
and/or information. In this manner, the boat operation and/or
movement can be monitored by, and/or at, any of the
herein-described transmitters, home and/or personal computers,
computers, and/or server computers.
[0400] The boat operation data monitoring device can transmit any
and/or all boat operation data to a respective transmitter(s), home
and/or personal computer(s), computer(s), and/or server
computer(s), in real-time, live, in a time-delayed manner, and/or
in any other appropriate manner. The boat operation data monitoring
device can also record and/or store any of the operation data
monitored thereby.
[0401] Any data and/or information which is received from the boat
operation data monitoring device can be stored at any of the
herein-described transmitters 2, and/or home and/or personal
computers 150, and/or any of the server computers 510, computers
970, and/or server computers 952, and/or any other computers and/or
communication devices, which can be utilized to receive this data.
The data and/or information which is received from the boat
operation data monitoring device can be stored in any suitable
manner which can typically involve storing same digitally, storing
same digitally in an overwriting manner, so that, for example, the
data can be stored and/or overwritten for a given time period and
overwriting same, storing same in a looping and/or re-circulating
storage medium or tape, storing same in a manner utilized in
conjunction with, and/or similar to, the manner in which data
and/or information is stored in aircraft flight data recorders
and/or aircraft cockpit voice recorders.
[0402] The boat operation data monitoring device can be accessed by
any of the herein-described transmitters, home and/or personal
computers, computers, and/or server computers, and/or the
individuals utilizing same, in order to monitor and/or ascertain
boat operation, and/or video and/or audio activity inside, outside,
and/or at, the boat, at any time and/or to retrieve and/or to
access operating data regarding boat operation and/or movement,
and/or video and/or audio activity inside, outside, and/or at, the
boat, which has been recorded and/or stored by the boat operation
data monitoring device. For example, boat operating data and/or
information, along with video and/or audio information inside,
outside, and/or at the boat, can be accesses and/or obtained.
[0403] The boat operation data monitoring device can be utilized to
monitor boat operation, to investigate a malfunction, to diagnosis
a malfunction or other problem, to investigate a cause of an
accident, and/or can be utilized for any other purpose.
[0404] In a preferred embodiment, the boat operation data
monitoring device can be programmed to monitor boat operation data
and/or to transmit same to any respective transmitter, home and/or
personal computer, computer, central computer, and/or server
computer, continuously, at certain times, and/or under certain
conditions, such as a detection by the CPU 4 and/or by the boat
operation data monitor.
[0405] The boat operation data monitoring device can also be
activated remotely by any individual via any respective
transmitter, home and/or personal computer, computer, central
computer, and/or server computer, and/or user of same. The boat
operation data monitoring device can also be activated by a boat
operator and/or occupant and/or via any other individual.
[0406] The data and/or information obtained from the boat operation
data monitoring device can be stored at any of the respective
transmitters, home and/or personal computers, computers, central
computers, and/or server computers, for accessing at any time. The
data and/or information can be stored at the boat operation data
monitoring device, and/or at any of the herein-described and
respective transmitters, home and/or personal computers, computers,
central computers, and/or server computers, in a "loop tape" manner
and/or digitally in a looping and/or data overwriting manner so
that, for example, only a most recent time period is recorded.
[0407] The boat operation data monitoring device can be utilized in
conjunction with the present invention so as to obtain, to record,
and/or access, and/or analyze, boat operation data at the boat
and/or from a location remote from the boat, in a network
environment, thereby facilitating the monitoring and/or the
analysis of boat operation data.
[0408] The apparatus 1200 also includes a position and locating
device 13 which can be utilized in order to determine the position
and/or the location of the boat. The position and locating device
13 can be utilized so as to determine the position of the boat
anywhere in the world and provide for the transmission of boat
position and/or location data to any appropriate system receiver so
that the boat may be located and/or tracked and recovered. In the
preferred embodiment, the position and locating device 13 includes
and utilizes a global positioning device and an associated
transmitter for transmitting position and/or location data to the
authorized user or operator and/or to an authorized office or
agency authorized to receive and/or to monitor such data
transmissions.
[0409] The apparatus 1200 of FIG. 12 also includes a position and
locating system receiver 14, which may be employed by the
authorized user or operator and/or by the authorized office or
agency, for receiving and/or processing the data which is
transmitted from the position and locating device 13 as described
above. The apparatus of may also comprise a user interface device
(not shown).
[0410] The apparatus and method of the preferred embodiment of FIG.
12 may be utilized and/or operates in the same or in a similar
and/or analogous manner as described above with regards to the
embodiments of FIGS. 1-11B and/or consistent with the description
of the various embodiments and features of the present invention as
described herein. The apparatus and method of the present invention
may also provide for the immediate, and/or for the deferred,
control, activation, deactivation, programming, monitoring and/or
security of any one or more of the boat and/or marine vessel or
vehicle systems, equipment, devices, appliances, etc., in the same,
similar and/or analogous manner as described above with its use in
conjunction with vehicles and/or motor vehicles.
[0411] Although the present invention has been hereinabove
described as being utilized in conjunction with a boat, it is noted
that the present invention may be utilized in conjunction with a
ship, cruise ship, or any other boat, manned or unmanned,
regardless of size, shape or form, private, commercial and/or
military. The boat equipment systems may also include guns and/or
weapon systems and/or self-defense systems and/or electronic
warfare systems. The present invention may also be utilized in
conjunction with submersible vehicles such as submarines.
[0412] In yet another preferred embodiment, the present invention
is utilized in conjunction with an aircraft, airplane, jet, or
helicopter. FIG. 13 illustrates another preferred embodiment of the
present invention, wherein the apparatus and method is utilized in
conjunction with an airplane. The apparatus of FIG. 13 is denoted
generally by the reference numeral 1300. In FIG. 13, the components
of the apparatus which are common to the apparatus 1 of FIG. 1 are
designated by the same reference numerals. In FIG. 13, the CPU 4 is
electrically connected and/or linked to the airplane ignition
system 1307, which is located externally from the apparatus 1300.
The CPU 4 may or may not be connected and/or linked with the
airplane ignition system 1307 through an ignition system interface
1308 which is also shown in FIG. 13.
[0413] The CPU 4 may transmit signals to, as well as receive
signals from, the airplane ignition system 1307. In this manner,
the CPU 4 and the airplane ignition system 1307, may exchange
information between each other. In this manner, the CPU 4, upon
receiving an appropriate signal from the receiver 3, and upon the
completion of the requisite data processing routine, may issue an
electrical, an electronic, and/or any other suitable signal,
including a digital command signal, to the airplane ignition system
1307. This electrical, electronic and/or other suitable signal, or
digital command signal, may be one which will disable the airplane
ignition system 1307 or one which will re-enable or reset the
airplane ignition system 7. The CPU 4 may also interrogate the
airplane ignition system 1307 and/or receive data from the airplane
ignition system 1307 which is indicative of ignition system status
(i.e., whether the airplane ignition system 1307 is on or off).
[0414] In the preferred embodiment, the CPU 4 is also electrically
connected and/or linked to the airplane fuel pump or supply system
1309 which is also located externally from the apparatus 1300. The
CPU 4 may or may not be connected and/or linked with the airplane
fuel pump system 1309 through a fuel pump system interface 1310
which is also shown in FIG. 13. In the case of an electrical or an
electronic fuel pump system, the CPU 4 may provide an electrical,
an electronic, and/or other suitable signal, including a digital
signal, which will disable or re-enable the airplane fuel pump or
supply system 1309.
[0415] In the case of a mechanical fuel pump system, the CPU 4 may
provide an electrical, electronic, and/or other suitable signal,
including a digital signal, which will disable or re-enable an
electrical valve system, which may be used to control the operation
of the mechanical fuel pump system. Whichever the case may be, the
CPU 4 will be capable of issuing an electrical, electronic and/or
other suitable signal, including a digital signal, to disable or to
re-enable the airplane fuel pump system 1309. The CPU 4 may also
interrogate and/or receive data from the airplane fuel pump or
supply system 1309 which is indicative of airplane fuel pump system
status (i.e., whether the airplane fuel pump system 1309 is on or
off). The CPU 4 may also be electrically connected and/or linked to
an appropriate device (not shown) for controlling the operation of
a airplane exhaust system.
[0416] The CPU 4, in the preferred embodiment, is also electrically
connected to at least one or more of an airplane equipment
system(s) 1311. The airplane equipment system(s) 1311 are located
externally from the apparatus 1300 and may or may not be connected
to the CPU 4, via an airplane equipment system(s) interface
device(s) 1312 which may or may not be required for each one of the
variety or multitude of the airplane equipment systems which may be
utilized in conjunction with the apparatus 1300.
[0417] The airplane equipment system(s) 1311 may include a loud
siren or alarm, which may be located in the cabin, passenger
compartment and/or cockpit of the airplane and, which may produce a
loud piercing sound so as to make it unbearable for an intruder to
remain inside the airplane cabin, passenger compartment and/or
cockpit. The airplane equipment system(s) 1311 may also include an
external siren or alarm, which may produce a loud piercing sound,
which may be utilized to draw attention to the airplane. The
airplane equipment system(s) 1311 may also include a horn, which
may blare continuously or intermittently, so as to also draw
attention to the airplane. The airplane equipment system(s) 1311
can also include "smart" windows which turn opaque and/or darker
depending upon interior lighting.
[0418] The airplane external light system(s), which may include the
airplane head lights, tail lights or flashers, which may be
constantly illuminated or which may blink on and off repeatedly so
as to draw attention to the airplane, may also be utilized as a
airplane equipment system 1311. The airplane equipment system(s)
1311 may also include a power door or hatch locking system or
device, for securing the airplane cabin, passenger compartment
and/or cockpit so as to prevent an unauthorized entry thereunto or
an exit therefrom. In addition, the airplane equipment system(s)
1311 may include a locking system, such as a mechanical locking
system, for preventing an unauthorized access into the airplane
engine compartment so as to prevent tampering with the apparatus
1300 or with other systems and/or components of the airplane.
[0419] The airplane equipment system(s) 1311 may also include any
one or more of the widely known airplane anti-theft systems and may
also include an airplane recovery system or device, including a
homing and/or a tracking system, each of which system(s) may be
activated by the apparatus 1300 of the present invention. The
airplane equipment system(s) 1311 may also include landing gear,
cabin and/or interior pressurization systems, devices, and/or cabin
pressurization control and/or monitoring systems and/or devices,
communication devices, such as two-way radios, radios, televisions,
navigational devices and/or equipment, fire extinguishing
equipment, radar devices and equipment, emergency and/or distress
signal equipment, sonar devices and/or equipment, and any
electrical, electronic and/or otherwise activated appliances and/or
equipment which may be utilized on an airplane. Appliances may
include household appliances such as refrigerators, stoves, air
conditioners, ovens, microwave ovens, lighting systems, etc. The
airplane equipment system(s) 1311 may also include systems for
detecting failures in any of the above or any other equipment
systems and report such failures to the user or operator whether he
or she is operating the airplane or is not onboard the airplane
and/or for reporting such failures to a central office.
[0420] The airplane equipment system(s) 1311 may also include video
recording and/or photographing equipment, which may include video
recording device(s) and/or a camera(s), such as those utilized in
conjunction with personal computers, televisions, digital
televisions, interactive televisions, display telephones, video
telephones, and/or other communication devices, including personal
communication devices, or a still picture camera(s). The video
recording device(s) or camera(s) may be digital recording devices
or cameras or other suitable devices or cameras, including typical
video recording devices or cameras. The video recording device(s)
or camera(s), in a preferred embodiment, has associated therewith a
transceiver or transmitter/receiver system for transmitting video
images recorded by the video recording device(s) or camera(s) to
the user or operator and for receiving signals such as, for
example, control signals, by which the user or operator may
exercise control over the video recording device(s) or
camera(s).
[0421] The video recording device(s) or camera(s) may be located at
any location on the interior of the airplane such as, for example,
in the dashboard, cabin, cockpit, and/or passenger compartment of
the airplane so that the user or operator, or any other authorized
individual, may observe and/or photograph the operator of the
airplane, or the occupants and/or cargo of the airplane. The video
recording(s) or camera(s) may also be located on the airplane
exterior. The video recording device(s) or camera(s) may have wide
angles for maximum angular viewing and may also be pivotable and/or
movable. The video device(s) or camera(s) can be moveable along a
track or other guiding device or element so that the respective
video recording device or camera can be moved along the airplane
interior or exterior. The video recording device(s) or camera(s)
may record and/or transmit the recorded video and/or the picture(s)
in real time and/or live. The video recording device(s) or
camera(s) may also be equipped with a storage medium, for storing
the recorded video and/or picture(s), and a transmitter or
transceiver for transmitting the stored video and/or picture(s) to
the user or operator at a later time. In this manner, real-time, as
well as deferred, video and/or picture(s) transmissions may be
provided.
[0422] The airplane equipment system(s) 1311 may also include audio
recording equipment, which may include audio recording device(s)
such as microphones and/or tape recorders, such as those utilized
in conjunction with personal computers, televisions, digital
televisions, interactive televisions, telephones, cellular
telephones, display telephones, video telephones, and/or other
communication devices, including personal communication devices.
The audio recording device(s) may be digital audio recording
devices or other suitable audio devices including typical audio
recording devices. The audio recording device(s), in a preferred
embodiment, has associated therewith a transceiver or
transmitter/receiver system for transmitting the recorded audio to
the user or operator and for receiving signals such as, for
example, control signals, by which the user or operator may
exercise control over the audio recording device(s).
[0423] The audio recording device(s) may be located at any location
on the interior and/or exterior of the airplane so that the user or
operator, or any other authorized individual, may hear what is
transpiring, and/or what has transpired, inside and/or outside the
airplane. The audio recording device(s) may also be pivotable
and/or movable. The audio device(s) or microphone(s) can be
moveable along a track or other guiding device or element so that
the respective audio recording device or microphone can be moved
along the airplane interior or exterior. The audio recording
device(s) may record and/or transmit the recorded audio in real
time and/or live. The audio recording device(s) may also be
equipped with a storage medium, for storing the recorded audio, and
a transmitter or transceiver for transmitting the stored audio at a
later time. In this manner, real-time as well as deferred audio
transmissions may be provided.
[0424] The airplane equipment system(s) 1311 may also include an
intercom system or device or telephone, cellular, digital, or
otherwise for providing a means by which to allow the user or
operator, or other authorized operator, to communicate with the
operator and/or occupants of the airplane. The airplane equipment
system 1311 can also include video conferencing devices and/or
equipment for enabling the airplane occupants and/or individuals
inside the airplane, outside the airplane, and/or in the vicinity
of the airplane, to engage in and/or partake in video conferences
and/or video conferencing with others via a communication
network.
[0425] The airplane equipment system(s) 1311 can also include the
airplane battery or batteries, airplane fuel cell or fuel cells,
battery monitoring equipment, battery charge level, fuel cell
output, fuel cell fuel supply, fuel cell temperature measuring
device, fuel cell by-product (i.e. water or other by-product, heat,
etc.) measuring device, fuel cell output measuring device (i.e.
voltmeter, ammeter, current measure, power meter, etc.), an
airplane aileron control and/or monitoring device, a rudder control
and/or monitoring device, an horizontal stabilizer control and/or
monitoring device, a vertical stabilizer control and/or monitoring
device, an altimeter, an emergency landing parachute control and/or
monitoring device, an emergency parachute deployment control and/or
deployment detection device, a navigation system, a navigation
control and/or monitoring system, an automatic pilot, a radar
system, a flight data recorder, a flight data recorder control
and/or monitoring device, a cockpit voice recorder, a cockpit voice
recorder control and/or monitoring device, a wing flap control
and/or monitoring device, an emergency oxygen control and/or
monitoring device, an emergency oxygen deployment detection device,
an air bag deployment device, an air bag deployment detection
device, an airplane cockpit or control console display device, a
gyroscope for measuring airplane pitch, roll, yaw, or attitude, a
gyrocompass for measuring direction of travel, an airplane data
recorder and/or an airplane operation data recorder.
[0426] The airplane equipment system(s) 1311 may also include
monitoring device(s) for reading and/or monitoring the airplane
fuel supply, water and/or coolant supply, electrical generator
and/or alternator operation, battery charge level, fuel cell
electrical power output, fuel cell fuel supply level, fuel cell
operating temperature, fuel cell by-product output level, and/or
engine or motor temperature level, airplane flight control systems
and/or any other airplane operation and/or system function and/or
airplane equipment system(s) operating status and/or condition. The
monitoring device(s), in a preferred embodiment, has associated
therewith a transceiver or transmitter/receiver system for
transmitting data and/or information recorded and/or read by the
monitoring device(s) to the user or operator and for receiving
signals such as, for example, control signals, by which the user or
operator may exercise control over the monitoring device(s).
[0427] The airplane equipment system(s) 1311 may also include
communication devices, such as two-way radios, radios, televisions,
navigational devices and/or equipment, fire extinguishing
equipment, radar devices and equipment, emergency and/or distress
signal equipment, and any electrical, electronic and/or otherwise
activated appliances and/or equipment which may be utilized in an
airplane or aircraft. Appliances may include household appliances
such as refrigerators, stoves, air conditioners, ovens, microwave
ovens, lighting systems, etc. The airplane equipment system(s) 1311
may also include electrical and/or electronically controlled dead
bolt locking devices for use on doors, windows, and/or in
conjunction with any other opening components and/or components for
gaining access to various locations on and/or in, and/or any
systems, devices, and/or components of, the airplane.
[0428] The airplane equipment system(s) 1311 can also include
transponders, communication transponders, navigation transponders,
and/or beacons.
[0429] The airplane equipment system(s) 1311 may also include locks
for preventing use and/or access to various locations, systems,
devices, and/or components of the airplane. The airplane equipment
systems may also include hydraulic and/or pneumatic equipment
and/or other equipment, including hydraulic control devices and/or
control systems, winches, etc, which may be remotely activated as
described herein. The airplane equipment system(s) 1311 may also
include airplane communication devices including, but not limited
to radios, televisions and entertainment devices, two-way radios,
cellular telephones and equipment, etc. The equipment system(s)
1311 may also include systems for detecting failures in any of the
above, or any other, equipment systems and report such failure(s)
to the user or operator whether he or she is operating the airplane
or is not in the airplane and/or for reporting such failures to a
central office.
[0430] The airplane equipment system(s) 1311 can also include the
airplane command computer which is utilized to control and/or to
the various electronic, electrical, mechanical, and/or
electromechanical systems, components, devices, of the airplane.
The command computer can control and monitor any of the systems,
components, and/or devices, of the airplane, including, but not
limited to, the automatic pilot system, radar system, lift control
system, control surface system, the ignition system, engine and/or
thrusting system, braking system, the fuel system, fuel injection
system, landing gear, fuel dumping system, electrical systems for
ignition, lights, horn, door locks, exhaust system, windows, fuel
pump, oil pump, engine timing device, battery, fuel cells, fuel
supply device, video recording equipment, audio recording
equipment, airplane integrated positioning device, and/or any other
system, device, or component which can be controlled and/or
monitored by the command computer.
[0431] The command computer can transmit control signals and/or
status request signals to any of the herein-described airplane
systems, components and/or devices so as to respectively control
and/or monitor the operating status and/or condition of the
respective system, component and/or device. The command computer
can also receive signals from the respective systems, devices
and/or components, with said signals containing data and/or
information concerning the operating status, operating state,
and/or condition, of the respective systems, devices and/or
components. The command computer can be utilized so as to control,
monitor, and/or provide diagnostic information for any of the
airplane systems, components, and/or devices, which are controlled
and/or monitored with the command computer.
[0432] The airplane equipment system(s) 1311 can also include wear
and/or usage indicators and/or detection devices which can be
connected with either the command computer and/or the central
processing computer and which can be utilized so as to monitor the
wear and/or usage of any of the herein-described electronic,
electrical, mechanical, and/or electromechanical, systems, devices,
and/or components.
[0433] The airplane equipment system(s) 1311 can also include
automatic control devices for controlling and/or monitoring
airplane systems and/or devices for airplane take-off, flight,
normal cruising, automatic pilot cruising, landing, airplane
movement and/or motion, such as, but not limited to, airplane
takeoff, thrust, engine or propeller system, forward thrust system
for controlling airplane forward direction movement, airplane
acceleration system for controlling speed of movement, airplane
tail, wings, rudder, and/or other control surface systems and/or
devices, airplane steering system, airplane braking system,
airplane reverse thrust system, landing gear, airplane pump system,
airplane turning and/or banking systems, and/or any other system
and/or component for controlling and/or for effecting
remote-control over the movement, motion and/or operation of the
airplane.
[0434] In the case of commercial equipment, industrial equipment,
the airplane equipment system(s) 1311 may also include loading
and/or unloading mechanisms, winches, etc., and any and/or all of
the various systems and devices utilized in conjunction with these
airplanes and/or equipment.
[0435] In another preferred embodiment, the airplane equipment
system(s) 1311 can also include a airplane operation data
monitoring device which monitors airplane operation such as
airplane speed, the status of any of the airplane systems (i.e.
ignition system, fuel pump system, positioning system), and/or any
of the airplane equipment systems described herein, direction of
travel, attitude of travel, video inside, outside, and/or at, the
airplane, audio inside, outside, and/or at, the airplane, activity
inside, outside, and/or at, the airplane, and/or any other
electrical, mechanical, electro-mechanical, hydraulic, and/or other
system, equipment system, device, component, and/or appliance.
[0436] The airplane operation data monitoring device can be
connected to, and/or linked with, any of the herein-described
systems, equipment systems, subsystems, devices, components, and/or
appliances, including, but not limited to, speedometer, cruise
control device, auto pilot, control surfaces, horizontal
stabilizer, vertical stabilizer, cabin pressure control, landing
gear, ailerons, altimeter, navigation system, emergency parachute,
emergency landing equipment, emergency evacuation equipment, data
display, braking system, wing flaps, rudder, gyroscope,
gyrocompass, directional light device(s), light system(s), door
lock system(s), depth sounding measurement devices, attitude
measuring device(s), ignition system, braking system, electronic
system(s), hydraulic system(s), video recording device(s) or
camera(s), audio recording device(s) or microphone(s), and/or any
other systems, equipment systems, devices, components, and/or
appliances, described herein and/or otherwise, for controlling
and/or monitoring the operation of same and/or for monitoring
activity at the airplane.
[0437] The airplane operation data monitoring device can operate
and/or function in a manner similar to, and/or analogous to, an
aircraft flight data recorder in monitoring and/or recording
operation data. In addition, the airplane operation data monitoring
device can receive any and/or all of the data monitored and
transmit same to the any of the herein-described transmitters 2,
home and/or personal computers 150, and/or any of the server
computers 510, computers 970, and/or server computers 952, and/or
any other computers and/or communication devices, which can be
utilized to receive this data and/or information. In this manner,
the airplane operation and/or movement can be monitored by, and/or
at, any of the herein-described transmitters, home and/or personal
computers, computers, and/or server computers.
[0438] The airplane operation data monitoring device can transmit
any and/or all airplane operation data to a respective
transmitter(s), home and/or personal computer(s), computer(s),
and/or server computer(s), in real-time, live, in a time-delayed
manner, and/or in any other appropriate manner. The airplane
operation data monitoring device can also record and/or store any
of the operation data monitored thereby.
[0439] Any data and/or information which is received from the
airplane operation data monitoring device can be stored at any of
the herein-described transmitters 2, home and/or personal computers
150, and/or any of the server computers 510, computers 970, and/or
server computers 952, and/or any other computers and/or
communication devices, which can be utilized to receive this data.
The data and/or information which is received from the airplane
operation data monitoring device can be stored in any suitable
manner which can typically involve storing same digitally, storing
same digitally in an overwriting manner, so that, for example, the
data can be stored and/or overwritten for a given time period and
overwriting same, storing same in a looping and/or re-circulating
storage medium or tape, storing same in a manner utilized in
conjunction with, and/or similar to, the manner in which data
and/or information is stored in aircraft flight data recorders
and/or aircraft cockpit voice recorders.
[0440] The airplane operation data monitoring device can be
accessed by any of the herein-described transmitters, home and/or
personal computers, computers, and/or server computers, and/or the
individuals utilizing same, in order to monitor and/or ascertain
airplane operation, and/or video and/or audio activity inside,
outside, and/or at, the airplane, at any time and/or to retrieve
and/or to access operating data regarding airplane operation and/or
movement, and/or video and/or audio activity inside, outside,
and/or at, the airplane, which has been recorded and/or stored by
the airplane operation data monitoring device. For example,
airplane operating data and/or information, along with video and/or
audio information inside, outside, and/or at the airplane, can be
accesses and/or obtained.
[0441] The airplane operation data monitoring device can be
utilized to monitor airplane operation, to investigate a
malfunction, to diagnosis a malfunction or other problem, to
investigate a cause of an accident, and/or can be utilized for any
other purpose.
[0442] In a preferred embodiment, the airplane operation data
monitoring device can be programmed to monitor airplane operation
data and/or to transmit same to any respective transmitter, home
and/or personal computer, computer, central computer, and/or server
computer, continuously, at certain times, and/or under certain
conditions, such as a detection by the CPU 4 and/or by the airplane
operation data monitor.
[0443] The airplane operation data monitoring device can also be
activated remotely by any individual via any respective
transmitter, home and/or personal computer, computer, central
computer, and/or server computer, and/or user of same. The airplane
operation data monitoring device can also be activated by a
airplane operator and/or occupant and/or via any other
individual.
[0444] The data and/or information obtained from the airplane
operation data monitoring device can be stored at any of the
respective transmitters, home and/or personal computers, computers,
central computers, and/or server computers for accessing at any
time. The data and/or information can be stored at the airplane
operation data monitoring device, and/or at any of the
herein-described and respective transmitters, home and/or personal
computers, computers, central computers, and/or server computers,
in a "loop tape" manner and/or digitally in a looping and/or data
overwriting manner so that, for example, only a most recent time
period is recorded.
[0445] The airplane operation data monitoring device can be
utilized in conjunction with the present invention so as to obtain,
to record, and/or access, and/or analyze, airplane operation data
at the airplane and/or from a location remote from the airplane, in
a network environment, thereby facilitating the monitoring and/or
the analysis of airplane operation data.
[0446] As noted above, the use of any one or more of the airplane
equipment system(s) 1311, and their associated interface devices
1312, may be optional. Further, as described above, wireless
devices may be utilized.
[0447] The airplane equipment system(s) 1311 receives signals from
the CPU 4, which signals serve to activate or de-activate, or vice
versa, whichever the case may be, the respective airplane equipment
system(s) which are utilized in conjunction with the apparatus
1300. The airplane equipment system(s) 1311 may also include any
other suitable airplane system or equipment feature which may be
utilized to draw attention to the airplane and/or in some other way
to impede the airplane theft. It should be noted that any of the
interface devices 1308, 1310 and 1312 may include any of the
requisite interfacing circuitry which may be necessary to
facilitate CPU 4 control over the respective systems which may be
utilized.
[0448] The apparatus 1300 also includes a position and locating
device 13 which can be utilized in order to determine the position
and/or the location of the airplane. The position and locating
device 13 can be utilized so as to determine the position of the
airplane anywhere in the world and provide for the transmission of
airplane position and/or location data to any appropriate system
receiver so that the airplane may be located and/or tracked and
recovered. In the preferred embodiment, the position and locating
device 13 includes and utilizes a global positioning device and an
associated transmitter for transmitting position and/or location
data to the authorized user or operator and/or to an authorized
office or agency authorized to receive and/or to monitor such data
transmissions.
[0449] The apparatus 1300 also includes a position and locating
system receiver 14, which may be employed by the authorized user or
operator and/or by the authorized office or agency, for receiving
and/or processing the data which is transmitted from the position
and locating device 13 as will be described above. The apparatus 1
may also comprise a user interface device (not shown).
[0450] The apparatus and method of the preferred embodiment of FIG.
13 may be utilized and/or operates in the same or in a similar
and/or analogous manner as described above with regards to the
embodiments of FIGS. 1-12 and/or consistent with the description of
the various embodiments and features of the present invention as
described herein.
[0451] The apparatus and method of the present invention may also
provide for the immediate, and/or for the deferred, control,
activation, deactivation, programming, monitoring and/or security
of any one or more of the airplane systems, equipment, devices,
appliances, etc., in the same, similar and/or analogous manner as
described herein.
[0452] Although the present invention has been described herein as
being utilized in conjunction with an airplane, it is noted that
the present invention may be utilized in conjunction with any
aircraft, including airplanes, jets, gliders, spacecraft, space
shuttles, satellites, manned or unmanned, regardless of size, shape
or form, private, commercial and/or military. The airplane
equipment systems may also include guns and/or weapon systems
and/or self-defense systems and/or electronic warfare systems.
[0453] In yet another preferred embodiment, the present invention
is utilized in conjunction with a snowmobile, jetski or
recreational vehicle. FIG. 14 illustrates another preferred
embodiment of the present invention wherein the apparatus is
utilized in conjunction with a snowmobile. The apparatus of FIG. 14
is denoted generally by the reference numeral 1400. In FIG. 14, the
components of the apparatus 1400 which are common to the apparatus
1 of FIG. 1 are designated by the same reference numerals. In FIG.
14, the CPU 4 is electrically connected and/or linked to the
snowmobile ignition system 1407, which is located externally from
the apparatus 1. The CPU 4 may or may not be connected and/or
linked with the snowmobile ignition system 1407 through an ignition
system interface 1408 which is also shown in FIG. 14.
[0454] The CPU 4 may transmit signals to, as well as receive
signals from, the snowmobile ignition system 1407. In this manner,
the CPU 4 and the snowmobile ignition system 1407, may exchange
information between each other. In this manner, the CPU 4, upon
receiving an appropriate signal from the receiver 3, and upon the
completion of the requisite data processing routine, may issue an
electrical, an electronic, and/or any other suitable signal,
including a digital command signal, to the snowmobile ignition
system 1407. This electrical, electronic and/or other suitable
signal, or digital command signal, may be one which will disable
the snowmobile ignition system 1407 or one which will re-enable or
reset the snowmobile ignition system 1407. The CPU 4 may also
interrogate the snowmobile ignition system 1407 and/or receive data
from the snowmobile ignition system 1407 which is indicative of
ignition system status (i.e., whether the snowmobile ignition
system 1407 is on or off).
[0455] In the preferred embodiment, the CPU 4 is also electrically
connected and/or linked to the snowmobile fuel pump or supply
system 1409 which is also located externally from the apparatus
1400. The CPU 4 may or may not be connected and/or linked with the
snowmobile fuel pump system 1409 through a fuel pump system
interface 1410 which is also shown in FIG. 14. In the case of an
electrical or an electronic fuel pump system, the CPU 4 may provide
an electrical, an electronic, and/or other suitable signal,
including a digital signal, which will disable or re-enable the
snowmobile fuel pump system 1409.
[0456] In the case of a mechanical fuel pump system, the CPU 4 may
provide an electrical, electronic, and/or other suitable signal,
including a digital signal, which will disable or re-enable an
electrical valve system, which may be used to control the operation
of the mechanical fuel pump system. Whichever the case may be, the
CPU 4 will be capable of issuing an electrical, electronic and/or
other suitable signal, including a digital signal, to disable or to
re-enable the snowmobile fuel pump system 1409. The CPU 4 may also
interrogate and/or receive data from the snowmobile fuel pump
system 1409 which is indicative of snowmobile fuel pump system
status (i.e., whether the snowmobile fuel pump system 1409 is on or
off). The CPU 4 may also be electrically connected and/or linked to
an appropriate device (not shown) for controlling the operation of
a snowmobile exhaust system.
[0457] The CPU 4, in the preferred embodiment, is also electrically
connected and/or linked to at least one or more of a snowmobile
equipment system or system(s) 1411. The snowmobile equipment
system(s) 1411 are located externally from the apparatus 1400 and
may or may not be connected to the CPU 4, via a snowmobile
equipment system interface 1412 which may or may not be required
for each one of the variety or multitude of the snowmobile
equipment systems which may be utilized in conjunction with the
apparatus.
[0458] The snowmobile equipment system(s) 1411 may include a loud
siren or alarm, which may be located in, or on, the passenger
compartment of the snowmobile and, which may produce a loud
piercing sound so as to make it unbearable for an intruder to
remain inside or on the snowmobile. The snowmobile equipment
system(s) 1411 may also include an external siren or alarm, which
may produce a loud piercing sound, which may be utilized to draw
attention to the snowmobile. The snowmobile equipment system(s)
1411 may also include a horn, which may blare continuously or
intermittently, so as to also draw attention to the snowmobile. The
snowmobile equipment system(s) 1411 can also include "smart"
windows which turn opaque and/or darker depending upon interior
lighting.
[0459] The snowmobile light system(s), which may include the
snowmobile head lights, tail lights or flashers, which may be
constantly illuminated or which may blink on and off repeatedly so
as to draw attention to the snowmobile, may also be utilized as a
snowmobile equipment system 1411. The snowmobile equipment
system(s) 1411 may also include a power locking systems and/or
devices as appropriate as well as steering mechanism locking
devices, locking devices for preventing unauthorized access into or
onto the snowmobile, snowmobile track locking devices for
preventing movement of the snowmobile and/or locking devices for
preventing unauthorized access to the snowmobile engine, so as to
prevent any tampering with the apparatus or with other systems
and/or components of the snowmobile.
[0460] The snowmobile equipment system(s) 1411 may also include any
one or more of the known snowmobile anti-theft systems and may also
include a snowmobile recovery system or device, including a homing
and/or a tracking system, each of which system(s) may be activated
by the apparatus of the present invention. The snowmobile equipment
system(s) 1411 may include any other equipment systems, including
any and all of the above-noted equipment systems described herein
for use in conjunction with vehicles, boats and airplanes,
including video and/or audio recording equipment and/or intercom
equipment and/or any of the herein-described communications systems
and/or devices.
[0461] The snowmobile equipment system(s) 1411 may include video
recording and/or photographing equipment, which may include video
recording device(s) and/or a camera(s), such as those utilized in
conjunction with personal computers, televisions, digital
televisions, interactive televisions, display telephones, video
telephones, and/or other communication devices, including personal
communication devices, or a still picture camera(s). The video
recording device(s) or camera(s) may be digital recording devices
or cameras or other suitable devices or cameras, including typical
video recording devices or cameras. The video recording device(s)
or camera(s), in a preferred embodiment, has associated therewith a
transceiver or transmitter/receiver system for transmitting video
images recorded by the video recording device(s) or camera(s) to
the user or operator and for receiving signals such as, for
example, control signals, by which the user or operator may
exercise control over the video recording device(s) or
camera(s).
[0462] The video recording device(s) or camera(s) may be located at
any location on the interior of the snowmobile such as, for
example, in the dashboard, cabin, cockpit, and/or passenger
compartment of the snowmobile so that the user or operator, or any
other authorized individual, may observe and/or photograph the
operator of the snowmobile, or the occupants and/or cargo of the
snowmobile. The video recording(s) or camera(s) may also be located
on the snowmobile exterior. The video recording device(s) or
camera(s) may have wide angles for maximum angular viewing and may
also be pivotable and/or movable. The video device(s) or camera(s)
can be moveable along a track or other guiding device or element so
that the respective video recording device or camera can be moved
along the snowmobile interior or exterior. The video recording
device(s) or camera(s) may record and/or transmit the recorded
video and/or the picture(s) in real time and/or live. The video
recording device(s) or camera(s) may also be equipped with a
storage medium, for storing the recorded video and/or picture(s),
and a transmitter or transceiver for transmitting the stored video
and/or picture(s) to the user or operator at a later time. In this
manner, real-time, as well as deferred, video and/or picture(s)
transmissions may be provided.
[0463] The snowmobile equipment system(s) 1411 may also include
audio recording equipment, which may include audio recording
device(s) such as microphones and/or tape recorders, such as those
utilized in conjunction with personal computers, televisions,
digital televisions, interactive televisions, telephones, cellular
telephones, display telephones, video telephones, and/or other
communication devices, including personal communication devices.
The audio recording device(s) may be digital audio recording
devices or other suitable audio devices including typical audio
recording devices. The audio recording device(s), in a preferred
embodiment, has associated therewith a transceiver or
transmitter/receiver system for transmitting the recorded audio to
the user or operator and for receiving signals such as, for
example, control signals, by which the user or operator may
exercise control over the audio recording device(s).
[0464] The audio recording device(s) may be located at any location
on the interior and/or exterior of the snowmobile so that the user
or operator, or any other authorized individual, may hear what is
transpiring, and/or what has transpired, inside and/or outside the
snowmobile. The audio recording device(s) may also be pivotable
and/or movable. The audio device(s) or microphone(s) can be
moveable along a track or other guiding device or element so that
the respective audio recording device or microphone can be moved
along the snowmobile interior or exterior. The audio recording
device(s) may record and/or transmit the recorded audio in real
time and/or live. The audio recording device(s) may also be
equipped with a storage medium, for storing the recorded audio, and
a transmitter or transceiver for transmitting the stored audio at a
later time. In this manner, real-time as well as deferred audio
transmissions may be provided.
[0465] The snowmobile equipment system 1311 can also include video
conferencing devices and/or equipment for enabling the snowmobile
occupants and/or users, individuals on the snowmobile, inside or
outside the snowmobile, and/or in the vicinity of the snowmobile,
to engage in and/or partake in video conferences and/or video
conferencing with others via a communication network.
[0466] The snowmobile equipment system(s) 1411 can also include the
snowmobile battery or batteries, snowmobile fuel cell or fuel
cells, battery monitoring equipment, battery charge level, fuel
cell output, fuel cell fuel supply, fuel cell temperature measuring
device, fuel cell by-product (i.e. water or other by-product, heat,
etc.) measuring device, fuel cell output measuring device (i.e.
voltmeter, ammeter, current measure, power meter, etc.), an air bag
deployment device, an air bag deployment detection device, a
dashboard display device, a gyroscope for measuring snowmobile
pitch, roll, yaw, or attitude, a gyrocompass for measuring
direction of travel, a data recorder and/or an operation data
recorder, a navigation system, a navigation control and/or
monitoring system, an automatic pilot, a voice recorder, a voice
recorder control and/or monitoring device, and/or a control console
display device. The equipment system 1411 can also include any of
the devices and/or systems described herein as being utilized with
vehicles, boats, and/or airplanes.
[0467] The snowmobile equipment system(s) 1411 may also include
monitoring device(s) for reading and/or monitoring the snowmobile
fuel supply, water and/or coolant supply, electrical generator
and/or alternator operation, battery charge level, fuel cell
electrical power output, fuel cell fuel supply level, fuel cell
operating temperature, fuel cell by-product output level, and/or
engine or motor temperature level, snowmobile control system and/or
any other snowmobile operation and/or system function and/or
snowmobile equipment system(s) operating status and/or condition.
The monitoring device(s), in a preferred embodiment, has associated
therewith a transceiver or transmitter/receiver system for
transmitting data and/or information recorded and/or read by the
monitoring device(s) to the user or operator and for receiving
signals such as, for example, control signals, by which the user or
operator may exercise control over the monitoring device(s).
[0468] The snowmobile equipment system(s) 1411 may also include
communication devices, such as two-way radios, radios, televisions,
navigational devices and/or equipment, fire extinguishing
equipment, radar devices and equipment, emergency and/or distress
signal equipment, and any electrical, electronic and/or otherwise
activated appliances and/or equipment which may be utilized in a
snowmobile. Appliances may include household appliances such as
refrigerators, stoves, air conditioners, ovens, microwave ovens,
lighting systems, etc. The snowmobile equipment system(s) 1411 may
also include electrical and/or electronically controlled dead bolt
locking devices for use on doors, windows, hood, trunk and/or in
conjunction with any other opening components and/or components for
gaining access to various locations on and/or in, and/or any
systems, devices, and/or components of, the snowmobile.
[0469] The snowmobile equipment system(s) 1411 can also include
transponders, communication transponders, navigation transponders,
and/or beacons.
[0470] The snowmobile equipment system(s) 1411 may also include a
wheel and/or brake locking device or mechanism. The snowmobile
equipment systems may also include hydraulic and/or pneumatic
equipment and/or other equipment, including winches, etc, which may
be remotely activated as described herein. The snowmobile equipment
system(s) 1411 may also include snowmobile communication devices
including, but not limited to radios, televisions and entertainment
devices, two-way radios, cellular telephones and equipment, etc.
The snowmobile equipment system(s) 1411 may also include systems
for detecting failures in any of the above, or any other, equipment
systems and report such failure(s) to the user or operator whether
he or she is operating the snowmobile or is not in the snowmobile
and/or for reporting such failures to a central office.
[0471] The snowmobile equipment system(s) 1411 can also include the
snowmobile command computer which is utilized to control and/or to
the various electronic, electrical, mechanical, and/or
electromechanical systems, components, devices, of the snowmobile.
The command computer can control and monitor any of the systems,
components, and/or devices, of the snowmobile, including, but not
limited to, the ignition system, the fuel system, fuel injection
system, electrical systems for ignition, lights, horn, door locks,
exhaust system, windows, fuel pump, oil pump, engine timing device,
battery, fuel cells, fuel supply device, video recording equipment,
audio recording equipment, snowmobile integrated positioning
device, tire pressure indicator, and/or any other system, device,
or component which can be controlled and/or monitored by the
command computer.
[0472] The command computer can transmit control signals and/or
status request signals to any of the herein-described snowmobile
systems, components and/or devices so as to respectively control
and/or monitor the operating status and/or condition of the
respective system, component and/or device. The command computer
can also receive signals from the respective systems, devices
and/or components, with said signals containing data and/or
information concerning the operating status, operating state,
and/or condition, of the respective systems, devices and/or
components. The command computer can be utilized so as to control,
monitor, and/or provide diagnostic information for any of the
snowmobile systems, components, and/or devices, which are
controlled and/or monitored with the command computer.
[0473] The snowmobile equipment system(s) 1411 can also include
wear and/or usage indicators and/or detection devices which can be
connected with either the command computer and/or the central
processing computer and which can be utilized so as to monitor the
wear and/or usage of any of the herein-described electronic,
electrical, mechanical, and/or electromechanical, systems, devices,
and/or components.
[0474] The snowmobile equipment system(s) 1411 can also include
automatic control devices for controlling and/or monitoring
snowmobile systems and/or devices for snowmobile movement and/or
motion, such as, but not limited to, snowmobile transmission system
for controlling snowmobile forward and/or reverse direction of
movement, snowmobile acceleration system for controlling speed of
movement, snowmobile braking system for controlling snowmobile
braking, snowmobile steering system for steering the snowmobile,
and/or any other system and/or component for controlling and/or for
effecting remote-control over the movement and/or the motion of the
snowmobile.
[0475] In another preferred embodiment, the snowmobile equipment
system(s) 1411 can also include a snowmobile operation data
monitoring device which monitors snowmobile operation such as
snowmobile speed, the status of any of the snowmobile systems (i.e.
ignition system, fuel pump system, positioning system), and/or any
of the snowmobile equipment systems described herein, direction of
travel, attitude of travel, video inside, outside, and/or at, the
snowmobile, audio inside, outside, and/or at, the snowmobile,
activity inside, outside, and/or at, the snowmobile, and/or any
other electrical, mechanical, electromechanical, hydraulic, and/or
other system, equipment system, device, component, and/or
appliance.
[0476] The snowmobile operation data monitoring device can be
connected to, and/or linked with, any of the herein-described
systems, equipment systems, subsystems, devices, components, and/or
appliances, including, but not limited to, speedometer, cruise
control device, gyroscope, gyrocompass, directional light
device(s), light system(s), door lock system(s), attitude measuring
device(s), ignition system, braking system, electronic system(s),
hydraulic system(s), video recording device(s) or camera(s), audio
recording device(s) or microphone(s), and/or any other systems,
equipment systems, devices, components, and/or appliances,
described herein and/or otherwise, for controlling and/or
monitoring the operation of same and/or for monitoring activity at
the snowmobile.
[0477] The snowmobile operation data monitoring device Can operate
and/or function in a manner similar to, and/or analogous to, an
aircraft flight data recorder in monitoring and/or recording
operation data. In addition, the snowmobile operation data
monitoring device can receive any and/or all of the data monitored
and transmit same to the any of the herein-described transmitters
2, home and/or personal computers 150, and/or any of the server
computers 510, computers 970, and/or server computers 952, and/or
any other computers and/or communication devices, which can be
utilized to receive this data and/or information. In this manner,
the snowmobile operation and/or movement can be monitored by,
and/or at, any of the herein-described transmitters, home and/or
personal computers, computers, and/or server computers.
[0478] The snowmobile operation data monitoring device can transmit
any and/or all snowmobile operation data to a respective
transmitter(s), home and/or personal computer(s), computer(s),
and/or server computer(s), in real-time, live, in a time-delayed
manner, and/or in any other appropriate manner. The snowmobile
operation data monitoring device can also record and/or store any
of the operation data monitored thereby.
[0479] Any data and/or information which is received from the
snowmobile operation data monitoring device can be stored at any of
the herein-described transmitters 2, home and/or personal computers
150, and/or any of the server computers 510, computers 970, and/or
server computers 952, and/or any other computers and/or
communication devices, which can be utilized to receive this data.
The data and/or information which is received from the snowmobile
operation data monitoring device can be stored in any suitable
manner which can typically involve storing same digitally, storing
same digitally in an overwriting manner, so that, for example, the
data can be stored and/or overwritten for a given time period and
overwriting same, storing same in a looping and/or re-circulating
storage medium or tape, storing same in a manner utilized in
conjunction with, and/or similar to, the manner in which data
and/or information is stored in aircraft flight data recorders
and/or aircraft cockpit voice recorders.
[0480] The snowmobile operation data monitoring device can be
accessed by any of the herein-described transmitters, home and/or
personal computers, computers, and/or server computers, and/or the
individuals utilizing same, in order to monitor and/or ascertain
snowmobile operation, and/or video and/or audio activity inside,
outside, and/or at, the snowmobile, at any time and/or to retrieve
and/or to access operating data regarding snowmobile operation
and/or movement, and/or video and/or audio activity inside,
outside, and/or at, the snowmobile, which has been recorded and/or
stored by the snowmobile operation data monitoring device. For
example, snowmobile operating data and/or information, along with
video and/or audio information inside, outside, and/or at the
snowmobile, can be accesses and/or obtained.
[0481] The snowmobile operation data monitoring device can be
utilized to monitor snowmobile operation, to investigate a
malfunction, to diagnosis a malfunction or other problem, to
investigate a cause of an accident, and/or can be utilized for any
other purpose.
[0482] In a preferred embodiment, the snowmobile operation data
monitoring device can be programmed to monitor snowmobile operation
data and/or to transmit same to any respective transmitter, home
and/or personal computer, computer, central computer, and/or server
computer, continuously, at certain times, and/or under certain
conditions, such as a detection by the CPU 4 and/or by the
snowmobile operation data monitor.
[0483] The snowmobile operation data monitoring device can also be
activated remotely by any individual via any respective
transmitter, home and/or personal computer, computer, central
computer, and/or server computer, and/or user of same. The
snowmobile operation data monitoring device can also be activated
by a snowmobile operator and/or occupant and/or via any other
individual.
[0484] The data and/or information obtained from the snowmobile
operation data monitoring device can be stored at any of the
respective transmitters, home and/or personal computers, computers,
central computers, and/or server computers, for accessing at any
time. The data and/or information can be stored at the snowmobile
operation data monitoring device, and/or at any of the
herein-described and respective transmitters, home and/or personal
computers, computers, central computers, and/or server computers,
in a "loop tape" manner and/or digitally in a looping and/or data
overwriting manner so that, for example, only a most recent time
period is recorded.
[0485] The snowmobile operation data monitoring device can be
utilized in conjunction with the present invention so as to obtain,
to record, and/or access, and/or analyze, snowmobile operation data
at the snowmobile and/or from a location remote from the
snowmobile, in a network environment, thereby facilitating the
monitoring and/or the analysis of snowmobile operation data.
[0486] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, the
present invention can facilitate the transmission of data and/or
information regarding the operation of any of the herein described
vehicles, motor vehicles, boats, marine vessels, airplanes,
aircraft, and/or recreational vehicles, and/or any of the
respective systems, equipment systems, subsystems, devices,
components, and/or appliances thereof, thereby dispensing with the
need to obtain this data and/or information from data recorders
located in, at, or on, the respective vehicles, motor vehicles,
boats, marine vessels, airplanes, aircraft, and/or recreational
vehicles. In this manner, for example, data and/or information
normally recorded and/or store on a flight data recorder and/or a
cockpit voice recorder can be obtained and/or stored on, or at, any
of the herein-described transmitters 2, home and/or personal
computers 150, and/or any of the server computers 510, computers
970, and/or server computers 952, described herein. In this manner,
the need to recover a respective data recorder from the respective
vehicle, motor vehicle, boat, marine vessel, airplane, aircraft,
and/or recreational vehicle, can be rendered unnecessary and/or can
be dispensed with entirely.
[0487] As noted above, the use of any one or more of the snowmobile
equipment system(s) 1411, and their associated interface devices
1412, may be optional. Further, as described above, wireless
devices may also be utilized.
[0488] The snowmobile equipment system(s) 1411 receives signals
from the CPU 4, which signals serve to activate or de-activate, or
vice versa, whichever the case may be, the respective snowmobile
equipment system(s) which are utilized in conjunction with the
apparatus 1400. The snowmobile equipment system(s) 1411 may also
include any other suitable snowmobile system or equipment feature
which may be utilized to draw attention to the snowmobile and/or in
some other way impede the snowmobile theft. It should be noted that
any of the interface devices 1408, 1410 and 1412 may include any of
the requisite interfacing circuitry which may be necessary to
facilitate CPU 4 control over the respective systems which may be
utilized.
[0489] The apparatus 1400 also includes a position and locating
device 13 which can be utilized in order to determine the position
and/or the location of the snowmobile. The position and locating
device 13 can be utilized so as to determine the position of the
snowmobile anywhere in the world and provide for the transmission
of position and/or location data to any appropriate system receiver
so that the snowmobile may be located and/or tracked and recovered.
In the preferred embodiment, the position and locating device 13
includes and utilizes a global positioning device and an associated
transmitter for transmitting position and/or location data to the
authorized user or operator and/or to an authorized office or
agency authorized to receive and/or to monitor such data
transmissions.
[0490] The apparatus 1400 of FIG. 14 also includes a position and
locating system receiver 14, which may be employed by the
authorized user or operator and/or by the authorized office or
agency, for receiving and/or processing the data which is
transmitted from the snowmobile position and locating device 13 as
described above. The apparatus 1 may also comprise a user interface
device (not shown).
[0491] The apparatus and method of the preferred embodiment of FIG.
14 may be utilized and/or operates in the same or in a similar
and/or analogous manner as described herein and/or consistent with
the description of the various embodiments and features of the
present invention.
[0492] The apparatus and method of the present invention may also
provide for the immediate, and/or for the deferred control,
activation, deactivation, programming, monitoring and/or security
of any one or more of the snowmobile and/or recreational vehicle
systems, equipment, devices, appliances, etc., in the same, similar
and/or analogous manner as described above in conjunction with the
various embodiments of the present invention.
[0493] Although the present invention has been described herein as
being utilized in conjunction with a snowmobile, it is noted that
the present invention may also be utilized in conjunction with any
type of recreational vehicle, including jetskis, scooters,
motorcycles, minibikes, hot-air balloons, go-carts, mopeds, etc,
manned or unmanned, regardless of size, shape or form, private,
commercial and/or military. The recreational vehicle equipment
systems may also include guns and/or weapon systems and/or
self-defense systems and/or electronic warfare systems, if desired,
and especially when used in law enforcement and/or military
applications.
[0494] The present invention can be utilized in conjunction with a
motor home, a mobile home and/or a camper as the present invention
may be utilized to provide control, monitoring and/or security
functions pertaining to motor vehicle equipment and home systems,
equipment and appliances.
[0495] In still another preferred embodiment, the present invention
can be utilized in conjunction with a residential premises,
residential building and/or a home or a household control system.
FIG. 15 illustrates another preferred embodiment of the present
invention wherein the apparatus and method is utilized in
conjunction with a home control system. The apparatus of FIG. 15 is
denoted generally by the reference numeral 1500. It is understood
that, while the embodiment of FIG. 15 is illustrated and described
in conjunction with a home or a household system, the apparatus
1500 may be utilized in any residential premises and/or any
residential building.
[0496] In FIG. 15, the components of the apparatus 1500 which are
common to the apparatus 1 of FIG. 1 are designated by the same
reference numerals. In FIG. 15, the CPU 4 is electrically connected
and/or linked to the home and/or household central electrical
system 1507, which is located externally from the apparatus 1500.
The CPU 4 may or may not be connected and/or linked with the home
central electrical system 1507 through a central electrical system
interface 1508 which is also shown in FIG. 15.
[0497] The CPU 4 may transmit signals to, as well as receive
signals from, the home central electrical system 1507. In this
manner, the CPU 4 and the home central electrical system 1507, may
exchange information between each other. In this manner, the CPU 4,
upon receiving an appropriate signal from the receiver 3, and upon
the completion of the requisite data processing routine, may issue
an electrical, an electronic, and/or any other suitable signal,
including a digital command signal, to the home central electrical
system 1507. This electrical, electronic and/or other suitable
signal, or digital command signal, may be one which will disable
the home central electrical system 1507 or one which will re-enable
or reset the home central electrical system 1507. The CPU 4 may
also interrogate the central electrical system 1507 and/or receive
data from the central electrical system 1507 which is indicative of
central electrical system status (i.e., whether the central
electrical system 1507, or any portion thereof, is on or off).
[0498] In the preferred embodiment, the CPU 4 is also electrically
connected and/or linked to the home central heating system 1509
which is also located externally from the apparatus 1500. The CPU 4
may or may not be connected and/or linked with the home central
heating system 1509 through a central heating system interface 1510
which is also shown in FIG. 15. The CPU 4 is capable of issuing an
electrical, electronic and/or other suitable signal, including a
digital signal, to disable or to re-enable the home central heating
system 1509. The CPU 4 may also interrogate and/or receive data
from the home central heating system 1509 which is indicative of
home central heating system status (i.e., whether the central
heating system 1509, or any portion thereof, is on or off).
[0499] In the preferred embodiment, the CPU 4 is also electrically
connected and/or linked to the home central air conditioning system
1511 which is also located externally from the apparatus 1500. The
CPU 4 may or may not be connected and/or linked with the home
central air conditioning system 1511 through a central air
conditioning system interface 1512 which is also shown in FIG. 15.
The CPU 4 is capable of issuing an electrical, electronic and/or
other suitable signal, including a digital signal, to disable or to
re-enable the home central air conditioning system 1511. The CPU 4
may also interrogate and/or receive data from the home central air
conditioning system 1511 which is indicative of home central air
conditioning system status (i.e., whether the central air
conditioning system 1511, or any portion thereof, is on or
off).
[0500] The CPU 4 may also be electrically connected and/or linked
to the home water system 1513 which is also located externally from
the apparatus 1500. The CPU 4 may or may not be connected and/or
linked with the home water system 1513 through a home water system
interface 1514 which is also shown in FIG. 15. The home water
system interface 1514, in the preferred embodiment, is an
electrically controlled water shut-off valve(s) or similar
device(s). The CPU 4 is capable of issuing an electrical,
electronic and/or other suitable signal, including a digital
signal, to disable or to re-enable the home water system 1513. The
CPU 4 may also interrogate and/or receive data from the home water
system 1513 which is indicative of the state of the home water
system 1513 (i.e. whether the home water system 1513, or any
portion thereof, is on or off). The home water system 1513 may then
be controlled (i.e. turned on or off) and/or adjusted by the user
or operator.
[0501] The CPU 4 may also be electrically connected and/or linked
to the home thermostat or environmental control system 1517 so as
to control and/or monitor home interior temperature. The CPU 4 may
or may not be connected and/or linked with the home thermostat
system 1517 through a home thermostat system interface 1518 which
is also shown in FIG. 15. The CPU 4 is capable of issuing an
electrical, electronic and/or other suitable signal, including a
digital signal, to disable or to re-enable the home thermostat
system 1517.
[0502] The CPU 4 may also interrogate and/or receive data from the
home thermostat system 1517 which is indicative of the state of the
home thermostat system 1517 (i.e. home interior temperature and/or
whether the temperature of the home interior, or any portion
thereof, is too hot, too cold, or acceptable). The home thermostat
system 1517 may then be controlled and/or adjusted by the user or
operator. In this manner, the home thermostat system 1517 may then
be adjusted and/or controlled by the user or operator via the
apparatus 1500. The home thermostat system 1517 may be connected
and/or linked to the home central heating system 1509 and/or to the
home central air conditioning system 1511 so as to activate,
de-activate, set and/or control the operation of these systems, as
necessary, in order to, and so as to, achieve the desired
temperature and/or environmental conditions in the home.
[0503] The CPU 4, in the preferred embodiment, is also electrically
connected and/or linked to at least one or more of a home equipment
system(s) 1515. The home equipment system(s) 1515 are located
externally from the apparatus 1500 and may or may not be connected
and/or linked to the CPU 4, via a home system equipment system or
systems interface 1516 which may or may not be required for each
one of the variety or multitude of the home equipment system(s)
1515 which may be utilized in conjunction with the apparatus
1500.
[0504] The home equipment system(s) 1515 may include a home
anti-theft and/or burglary alarm system, a loud siren or alarm,
which may be located in the interior of the home, which may produce
a loud piercing sound so as to make it unbearable for an intruder
to remain inside the home, an exterior siren or alarm, which may
produce a loud piercing sound, which may be utilized to draw
attention to the home, and exterior lighting system(s) and interior
lighting systems, which lighting systems may be turned on or turned
off at the user or operator's discretion and which may be
controlled to blink on and off to draw attention to the home. The
home equipment system(s) 1515 can also include "smart" windows
which turn opaque and/or darker depending upon interior
lighting.
[0505] The home equipment system(s) 1515 may also include an
electrical and/or electronically controlled locking devices for
doors and/or windows, including electrical and/or electronic
dead-bolt locking systems and devices, electrical systems for
controlling electrical circuits or systems room-by-room,
device-by-device, and/or appliance-by-appliance. The home equipment
system(s) 1515 may also include devices for controlling any one or
more of the electrical circuits, such as circuits controlled by
fuses, circuit breakers or equivalent devices. The home equipment
system(s) 1515 may also include devices for controlling and/or
monitoring hot water heaters, garage door openers, lawn sprinkler
systems, electric fences and/or fencing, in-ground or above-ground
pool equipment, filters and/or heaters, home central water valve,
individual room water valve, home fire detector equipment and home
fire extinguishment equipment. The home equipment system(s) 1515
may also include power door and window closing, locking and opening
equipment. The home equipment system(s) 1515 can also include
"smart" windows and/or "smart" glass which can turn opaque
depending upon the amount and/or intensity of interior
lighting.
[0506] The home equipment system(s) 1515 may also include any and
all of a wide variety of home appliances such as televisions,
telephones, telephone answering machines, alarm systems, VCRs,
stoves, ovens, microwave ovens, door bells, individual lights or
lamps, blenders, toasters, personal computers, word processors,
stereos, radios, and any other home appliance and/or device which
is electrically and/or electronically activated and/or
controllable.
[0507] The home equipment system(s) 1515 may also include video
recording and/or photographing equipment, which may include video
recording device(s) and/or a camera(s), such as those utilized in
conjunction with personal computers, televisions, digital
televisions, interactive televisions, display telephones, video
telephones, and/or other communication devices, including personal
communication devices, or a still picture camera(s). The video
recording device(s) or camera(s) may be digital recording devices
or cameras or other suitable devices or cameras, including typical
video recording devices or cameras. The video recording device(s)
or camera(s), in a preferred embodiment, has associated therewith a
transceiver or transmitter/receiver system for transmitting video
images recorded by the video recording device(s) or camera(s) to
the owner or occupant and for receiving signals such as, for
example, control signals, by which the owner or occupant may
exercise control over the video recording device(s) or
camera(s).
[0508] The video recording device(s) or camera(s) may be located at
any location on the interior of the home such as, for example, in
any room or rooms of the home so that the owner or occupant, or any
other authorized individual, may observe and/or photograph any
portions and/or rooms in the interior of the home, or the occupants
and/or anything which may be located and/or stored in the home. The
video recording device(s) or camera(s) may also be located on the
exterior of the home so that the owner or occupant, or any other
authorized individual, may observe and/or photograph the exterior
of the home or residential premises, or portion thereof, or the
individuals or objects and/or anything which may be present,
located and/or stored on the premises of home and/or residential
premises.
[0509] The video recording device(s) or camera(s) may have wide
angles for maximum angular viewing and may also be pivotable and/or
movable. The video device(s) or camera(s) can be moveable along a
track or other guiding device or element so that the respective
video recording device or camera can be moved along the premises
interior or exterior. The video recording device(s) or camera(s)
may record and/or transmit the recorded video and/or the picture(s)
in real time and/or live. The video recording device(s) or
camera(s) may also be equipped with a storage medium, for storing
the recorded video and/or picture(s), and a transmitter or
transceiver for transmitting the stored video and/or picture(s) to
the owner or occupant at a later time. In this manner, real-time,
as well as deferred, video and/or picture(s) transmissions may be
provided.
[0510] The home equipment system(s) 1515 may also include audio
recording equipment, which may include audio recording device(s)
such as microphones and/or tape recorders, such as those utilized
in conjunction with personal computers, televisions, digital
televisions, interactive televisions, telephones, cellular
telephones, display telephones, video telephones, and/or other
communication devices, including personal communication devices.
The audio recording device(s) may be digital audio recording
devices or other suitable audio devices including typical audio
recording devices. The audio recording device(s), in a preferred
embodiment, has associated therewith a transceiver or
transmitter/receiver system for transmitting the recorded audio to
the owner or occupant and for receiving signals such as, for
example, control signals, by which the owner or occupant may
exercise control over the audio recording device(s).
[0511] The audio recording device(s) may be located at any location
on the interior and/or exterior of the home and/or residential
premises so that the owner or occupant, or any other authorized
individual, may hear what is transpiring, and/or what has
transpired, inside and/or outside the home and/or residential
premises. The audio recording device(s) may also be pivotable
and/or movable. The audio recording device(s) microphone(s) can be
moveable along a track or other guiding device or element so that
the respective audio recording device or microphone can be moved
along the premises interior or exterior. The audio recording
device(s) may record and/or transmit the recorded audio in real
time and/or live. The audio recording device(s) may also be
equipped with a storage medium, for storing the recorded audio, and
a transmitter or transceiver for transmitting the stored audio at a
later time. In this manner, real-time as well as deferred audio
transmissions may be provided.
[0512] The home equipment system(s) 1515 may also include an
intercom system or device or a telephone, cellular, digital or
otherwise for providing a means by which to allow the user or
operator, or other authorized operator, to communicate with the
persons present in, or occupants of, the home. The home equipment
system(s) 1515 can also include video conferencing devices and/or
equipment for enabling the home occupants and/or individuals inside
the home, outside the home, and/or in the vicinity of the home, to
engage in and/or partake in video conferences and/or video
conferencing with others via a communication network.
[0513] The home equipment system 1515 can also include the premises
battery or batteries, premises fuel cell or fuel cells, battery
monitoring equipment, battery charge level, fuel cell output, fuel
cell fuel supply, fuel cell temperature measuring device, fuel cell
by-product (i.e. water or other by-product, heat, etc.) measuring
device, fuel cell output measuring device (i.e. voltmeter, ammeter,
current measure, power meter, etc.).
[0514] The home equipment system(s) 1515 may also include
monitoring device(s) for reading and/or monitoring the status
and/or condition of any of the home fuel supply, water supply,
electrical generator and/or alternator operation, water usage, heat
and/or air conditioning usage, electricity usage, gas and/or oil or
other fuel usage, battery charge level, electrical system charge
level, fuel cell electrical power output, fuel cell fuel supply
level, fuel cell operating temperature, fuel cell by-product output
level, telephone usage and charges, appliance usage, etc, a home
control system and/or any other home operation and/or system
function and/or home equipment system(s) operating status and/or
condition. The monitoring device(s), in a preferred embodiment, may
have associated therewith a transceiver or transmitter/receiver
system for transmitting data and/or information recorded and/or
read by the monitoring device(s) to the user or operator and for
receiving signals such as, for example, control signals, by which
the user or operator may exercise control over the monitoring
device(s).
[0515] The home equipment system(s) 1515 may also include
communication devices, such as two-way radios, radios, televisions,
fire extinguishing equipment, emergency and/or distress signal
equipment, and any electrical, electronic and/or otherwise
activated appliances and/or equipment which may be utilized in a
home. Appliances may include household appliances such as
refrigerators, stoves, air conditioners, ovens, microwave ovens,
lighting systems, etc. The home equipment system(s) 1515 may also
include electrical and/or electronically controlled dead bolt
locking devices for use on doors, windows, and/or in conjunction
with any other opening components and/or components for gaining
access to various locations on and/or in, and/or any systems,
devices, and/or components of, the home and/or residential
premises.
[0516] The home equipment system(s) 1515 may also include hydraulic
and/or pneumatic equipment and/or other equipment, including
winches, etc, which may be remotely activated as described herein.
The home equipment system(s) 1515 may also include home
communication devices including, but not limited to radios,
televisions and entertainment devices, two-way radios, cellular
telephones and equipment, etc. The home equipment system(s) 1515
may also include systems for detecting failures in any of the
herein-described equipment systems and report such failure(s) to
the user or operator whether he or she is in the home or not in the
home and/or for reporting such failures to a central office.
[0517] The home equipment system(s) 1515 can also include the home
and/or residential premises command computer which is utilized to
control and/or to the various electronic, electrical, mechanical,
and/or electromechanical systems, components, devices, of the home
and/or residential premises. The command computer can control and
monitor any of the herein-described systems, components, and/or
devices, of the home and/or residential premises which can be
controlled and/or monitored by the command computer.
[0518] The command computer can transmit control signals and/or
status request signals to any of the herein-described home and/or
residential premises systems, components, and/or devices, so as to
respectively control and/or monitor the operating status and/or
condition of the respective system, component, and/or device. The
command computer can also receive signals from the respective
systems, devices, and/or components, with said signals containing
data and/or information concerning the operating status, operating
state, and/or condition, of the respective systems, devices, and/or
components. The command computer can be utilized so as to control,
monitor, and/or provide diagnostic information for any of the home
and/or residential premises systems, components, and/or devices,
which are controlled and/or monitored with the command
computer.
[0519] The home equipment system(s) 1515 can also include wear
and/or usage indicators and/or detection devices which can be
connected with either the command computer and/or the central
processing computer and which can be utilized so as to monitor the
wear and/or usage of any of the herein-described electronic,
electrical, mechanical, and/or electromechanical, systems, devices,
and/or components.
[0520] The home equipment system(s) 1515 can also include automatic
control devices for controlling and/or monitoring home and/or
residential premises systems, devices, and/or components, for home
or residential premises maintenance and/or upkeep.
[0521] In the case of commercial, industrial, and/or farm and/or
construction equipment, drilling equipment, mining equipment,
excavating equipment, and/or other commercial equipment, the home
equipment system(s) 1515 may also include loading and/or unloading
mechanisms, cutting mechanisms, bailing mechanisms, winches and any
and all of the various systems and devices utilized in conjunction
with these premises and/or equipment.
[0522] As noted above, the use of any one or more of the home
equipment system(s) 1515 and/or appliances or devices and their
associated interface devices 1516, may be optional. The interface
devices 1516 may be wireless devices or modules which need not be
directly connected to the CPU 4 or to its respective equipment
system. In this regard, hard-wired connections are not necessary.
In the case of wireless interface devices or modules 1516,
corresponding wireless technology and/or systems may be utilized to
provide for the wireless control and operation of the respective
equipment(s).
[0523] In the case of a mobile home, the apparatus 1500 may also
comprise a position and locating device 13 which can be utilized in
order to determine the position and/or the location of the mobile
home. The mobile home position and locating device 13 can be
utilized so as to determine the position of the mobile home
anywhere in the world and provide for the transmission of position
and/or location data to any appropriate system receiver so that the
mobile home may be located and/or tracked and recovered. In a
preferred embodiment, the mobile home position and locating device
13 includes and utilizes a global positioning device and an
associated transmitter for transmitting position and/or location
data to the authorized user, operator and/or authorized
individual.
[0524] The apparatus 1500 may also comprise a mobile home position
and locating system receiver 14, which may be employed by the
authorized user, operator and/or authorized individual, for
receiving and/or processing the data which is transmitted from the
position and locating device 13 as described in the preferred
embodiments above. The apparatus 1 may also comprise a user
interface device (not shown).
[0525] The home equipment system(s) receives signals from the CPU
4, which signals serve to activate or de-activate, or vice versa,
whichever the case may be, the respective home equipment system(s)
which are utilized in conjunction with the apparatus 1500. The home
equipment system(s) 1515 may also include any other suitable home
system or equipment feature which may be utilized to draw attention
to the home and/or in some other way impede home theft. It should
be noted that any of the interface devices may include any of the
requisite interfacing circuitry which may be necessary to
facilitate CPU 4 control over the respective systems which may be
utilized. It is understood that, while the embodiment of FIG. 15 is
illustrated and described in conjunction with a home or a household
system, the embodiment may also be utilized in any residential
premises and/or any residential building.
[0526] The apparatus and method of the preferred embodiment of FIG.
15 may be utilized and/or operates in the same or in a similar
and/or analogous manner as described in conjunction with the
embodiments described above, and/or consistent with the description
of the various embodiments and features of the present invention as
described herein, so as to provide control, monitoring and/or
security functions for, and over, a home and/or residential
premises.
[0527] The apparatus and method of FIG. 15 can provide for an
immediate, as well as for a deferred, control, activation,
de-activation, programming, monitoring and/or security function
and/or response thereto of, and for, any one or more of the home
and/or residential premises systems, equipment, devices,
appliances, etc., in the same, similar and/or analogous manner as
described above in conjunction with its utilization in the
embodiments described herein.
[0528] As described above in conjunction with use of the apparatus
and method of the present invention with vehicles, the present
invention may, if desired, perform a test in order to determine the
state or status of any particular system, equipment, device and/or
appliance before exercising and/or performing a given control,
monitoring and/or security function. Depending upon the outcome of
the test, the apparatus and method of the present invention may
execute, alter and/or defer the performance and/or execution of the
control, monitoring and/or security function. For example, a
command to shut-off a home central electrical system may be
deferred until after the operation of a home security system, which
security system may be deemed to have priority in performing a
monitoring and shut-down procedure for the entire home, has been
successfully completed.
[0529] In this manner a homeowner or occupant may access a home
system at any time and from any location and thereby exercise
and/or perform control, monitoring and/or security functions on, or
over, any home system, equipment and/or appliance. The owner or
occupant may also monitor the status, state or operation of any
home system, equipment, device and/or appliance. Lastly, the owner
or occupant may perform security related functions or operations
on, and over, the home system, equipment, device and/or appliance.
As noted above, the present invention may be utilized in
conjunction with a telephone, either analog or digital, a touch
tone telephone, a cordless telephone and/or a cellular or mobile
telephone, a home and/or a personal computer, having associated
telecommunication devices or other suitable peripheral device(s)
such as a modem and/or a fax/modem, or other personal communication
devices, which may operate over an appropriate telecommunications
system, and/or other suitable communications systems, including
radio signal, optical, satellite and/or other communications
systems.
[0530] In still another preferred embodiment, the apparatus of the
present invention is utilized in conjunction with a commercial
premises, commercial building, commercial office, industrial
facility, commercial structure, industrial structure, manufacturing
facility, manufacturing equipment, manufacturing machine, drilling
platform, drilling rig, oil drilling platform, off-shore drilling
platform, off-shore drilling rig, excavation equipment,
construction equipment, mining platform, mining equipment, assembly
facility, assembly line facility and/or equipment, assembly
equipment, industrial robotic equipment, mass production facility,
production facility, assembly line, and/or any other industrial
structure, building, edifice, equipment, system, device, component
thereof and/or control system thereof and/or therefore (hereinafter
referred to as "commercial premises"). FIG. 16 illustrates another
preferred embodiment of the present invention wherein the apparatus
and method is utilized in conjunction with a commercial premises
and/or commercial premises control system. It is understood that,
while the embodiment of FIG. 16 is illustrated and described in
conjunction with a commercial office and/or premises control
system, the embodiment may also be utilized in any commercial
building and/or any commercial premises and/or any type of
building, structure, equipment, and/or premises. The apparatus of
FIG. 16 is denoted generally by the reference numeral 1600. In FIG.
16, the components of the apparatus which are common to the
apparatus of FIG. 1 are designated by the same reference
numerals.
[0531] In FIG. 16, the CPU 4 is electrically connected and/or
linked to the commercial office and/or premises central electrical
system 1607, which is located externally from the apparatus 1600.
The CPU 4 may or may not be connected and/or linked with the
central electrical system 1607 through a central electrical system
interface 1608 which is also shown in FIG. 16. The CPU 4 may
transmit signals to, as well as receive signals from, the central
electrical system 1607. In this manner, the CPU 4 and the central
electrical system 1607, may exchange information between each
other. In this manner, the CPU 4, upon receiving an appropriate
signal from the receiver 3, and upon the completion of the
requisite data processing routine, may issue an electrical, an
electronic, and/or any other suitable signal, including a digital
command signal, to the central electrical system 1607. This
electrical, electronic and/or other suitable signal, or digital
command signal, may be one which will disable the central
electrical system 1607 or one which will re-enable or reset the
central electrical system 1607.
[0532] The CPU 4 may also interrogate the central electrical system
1607 and/or receive data from the central electrical system 1607
which is indicative of central electrical system status (i.e.,
whether the central electrical system 1607, or any portion thereof,
is on or off).
[0533] In the preferred embodiment, the CPU 4 is also electrically
connected and/or linked to the commercial office and/or premises
central heating system 1609 which is also located externally from
the apparatus 1600. The CPU 4 may or may not be connected and/or
linked with the central heating system 1609 through a central
heating system interface 1610 which is also shown in FIG. 16. The
CPU 4 is capable of issuing an electrical, electronic and/or other
suitable signal, including a digital signal, to disable or to
re-enable the central heating system 1609. The CPU 4 may also
interrogate and/or receive data from the central heating system
1609 which is indicative of central heating system status (i.e.,
whether the central heating system 1609, or any portion thereof, is
on or off).
[0534] In the preferred embodiment, the CPU 4 is also electrically
connected and/or linked to the commercial office and/or premises
central air conditioning system 1611 which is also located
externally from the apparatus 1600. The CPU 4 may or may not be
connected and/or linked with the central air conditioning system
1611 through a central air conditioning system interface 1612 which
is also shown in FIG. 16. The CPU 4 is capable of issuing an
electrical, electronic and/or other suitable signal, including a
digital signal, to disable or to re-enable the central air
conditioning system 1611. The CPU 4 may also interrogate and/or
receive data from the central air conditioning system 1611 which is
indicative of central air conditioning system status (i.e., whether
the central air conditioning system 1611, or any portion thereof,
is on or off).
[0535] The CPU 4 may also be electrically connected and/or linked
to the commercial office and/or premises water system 1613 which is
also located externally from the apparatus 1600. The CPU 4 may or
may not be connected and/or linked with the water system 1613
through a commercial office and/or premises water system interface
1614 which is also shown in FIG. 16. The water system interface
1614, in the preferred embodiment, is an electrically controlled
water shut-off valve(s) and/or device(s). The CPU 4 is capable of
issuing an electrical, electronic and/or other suitable signal,
including a digital signal, to disable or to re-enable the water
system 1613. The CPU 4 may also interrogate and/or receive data
from the water system 1613 which is indicative of the state of the
water system (i.e. whether the water system, or any portion
thereof, is on or off). The commercial office and/or premises water
system 1613 may then be adjusted and/or controlled (i.e. turned on
or off) by the user or operator.
[0536] The CPU 4 may also be electrically connected and/or linked
to the commercial office and/or premises thermostat system 1617
which is also located externally from the apparatus 1600. The CPU 4
may or may not be connected and/or linked with the thermostat
system 1617 through a commercial office and/or premises thermostat
system interface 1618 which is also shown in FIG. 16. The CPU 4 is
capable of issuing an electrical, electronic and/or other suitable
signal, including a digital signal, to disable or to re-enable the
thermostat system 1617. The CPU 4 may also interrogate and/or
receive data from the thermostat system 1617 which is indicative of
the temperature of the commercial office and/or premises interior
(i.e., the interior temperature and/or whether interior
temperature, or any portion thereof, is too hot, too cold, or
acceptable). The thermostat system 1617 may then be adjusted and/or
controlled by the user or operator. The thermostat system 1617 may
be connected and/or linked to the central heating system 1609 and
to the central air conditioning system 1611 so as to activate
and/or control the operation of these systems in order to, and so
as to, achieve the desired temperature in the commercial office
and/or premises.
[0537] The CPU 4, in the preferred embodiment, is also electrically
connected and/or linked to at least one or more of a commercial
office and/or premises equipment system(s) 1615. The commercial
office and/or premises equipment system(s) 1615 are located
externally from the apparatus 1600 and may or may not be connected
and/or linked to the CPU 4, via a commercial office and/or premises
system equipment system(s) interface 1616 which may or may not be
required for each one of the variety or multitude of the commercial
office and/or premises equipment systems which may be utilized in
conjunction with the apparatus.
[0538] The commercial office and/or premises equipment system(s)
1615 may include a commercial office and/or premises anti-theft
and/or burglary alarm system, loud siren or alarm, which may be
located in the interior of the commercial office and/or premises,
which may produce a loud piercing sound so as to make it unbearable
for an intruder to remain inside the commercial office and/or
premises, an exterior siren or alarm, which may produce a loud
piercing sound, which may be utilized to draw attention to the
commercial office and/or premises and exterior lighting system(s)
and/or the interior lighting system(s), which lighting systems may
be turned on or turned off at the user's or operator's discretion
and which may be controlled to blink on and off to draw attention
to the commercial office and/or premises. The premises equipment
system(s) 1615 can also include "smart" windows which turn opaque
and/or darker depending upon interior lighting.
[0539] The commercial office and/or premises equipment system(s)
1615 may also include electrical and/or electronically controlled
locking devices for doors and/or windows, including electric or
electronic dead-bolt locking devices or systems, electrical systems
for controlling electrical circuits or systems room-by-room,
device-by-device, and/or appliance-by-appliance.
[0540] The commercial office and/or premises equipment system(s)
1615 may also include devices for controlling any one or more of
the electrical circuits, such as circuits controlled by fuses,
circuit breakers or equivalent devices. The commercial office
and/or premises equipment system(s) 1615 may also include devices
for controlling and/or monitoring hot water heaters, garage door
openers, lawn sprinkler systems, electric fences and/or fencing,
in-ground or above-ground pool equipment, fountain equipment,
filters and/or heaters, commercial office and/or premises fire
detector equipment and commercial office and/or premises fire
extinguishment equipment. Commercial office and/or premises
equipment system(s) 1615 may also include power door and window
closing, locking and opening equipment.
[0541] The commercial office and/or premises equipment system(s)
1615 may also include any and all office equipment and/or premises
appliances such as televisions, telephones, telephone answering
machines, alarm systems, VCRs, stoves, ovens, microwave ovens, door
bells, individual lights or lamps, blenders, toasters, computers
and associated peripherals, word processors, stereos, radios,
manufacturing equipment and any other commercial office and/or
premises appliances and/or devices which are electrically and/or
electronically activated and/or controllable.
[0542] The commercial office and/or premises equipment system(s)
1615 may also include video recording and/or photographing
equipment, which may include video recording device(s) and/or a
camera(s), such as those utilized in conjunction with personal
computers, televisions, digital televisions, interactive
televisions, display telephones, video telephones, and/or other
communication devices, including personal communication devices, or
a still picture camera(s). The video recording device(s) or
camera(s) may be digital recording devices or cameras or other
suitable devices or cameras, including typical video recording
devices or cameras. The video recording device(s) or camera(s), in
a preferred embodiment, has associated therewith a transceiver or
transmitter/receiver system for transmitting video images recorded
by the video recording device(s) or camera(s) to the owner or
occupant and for receiving signals such as, for example, control
signals, by which the owner or occupant may exercise control over
the video recording device(s) or camera(s).
[0543] The video recording device(s) or camera(s) may be located at
any location on the interior of the commercial office and/or
premises such as, for example, in any room or rooms of the
commercial office and/or premises so that the owner or occupant, or
any other authorized individual, may observe and/or photograph any
portions and/or rooms in the interior of the commercial office
and/or premises, or the occupants and/or anything which may be
located and/or stored in the commercial office and/or premises. The
video recording device(s) or camera(s) may also be located on the
exterior of the commercial office and/or premises so that the owner
or occupant, or any other authorized individual, may observe and/or
photograph the exterior of the commercial office and/or premises,
or portion thereof, or the individuals or objects and/or anything
which may be present, located and/or stored on the premises of
commercial office and/or premises.
[0544] The video recording device(s) or camera(s) may have wide
angles for maximum angular viewing and may also be pivotable and/or
movable. The video device(s) or camera(s) can be moveable along a
track or other guiding device or element so that the respective
video recording device or camera can be moved along the commercial
premises interior or exterior. The video recording device(s) or
camera(s) may record and/or transmit the recorded video and/or the
picture(s) in real time and/or live. The video recording device(s)
or camera(s) may also be equipped with a storage medium, for
storing the recorded video and/or picture(s), and a transmitter or
transceiver for transmitting the stored video and/or picture(s) to
the owner or occupant at a later time. In this manner, real-time,
as well as deferred, video and/or picture(s) transmissions may be
provided.
[0545] The commercial office and/or premises equipment system(s)
1615 may also include audio recording equipment, which may include
audio recording device(s) such as microphones and/or tape
recorders, such as those utilized in conjunction with personal
computers, televisions, digital televisions, interactive
televisions, telephones, cellular telephones, display telephones,
video telephones, and/or other communication devices, including
personal communication devices. The audio recording device(s) may
be digital audio recording devices or other suitable audio devices
including typical audio recording devices. The audio recording
device(s), in a preferred embodiment, has associated therewith a
transceiver or transmitter/receiver system for transmitting the
recorded audio to the owner or occupant and for receiving signals
such as, for example, control signals, by which the owner or
occupant may exercise control over the audio recording
device(s).
[0546] The audio recording device(s) may be located at any location
on the interior and/or exterior of the commercial office and/or
premises so that the owner or occupant, or any other authorized
individual, may hear what is transpiring, and/or what has
transpired, inside and/or outside the commercial office and/or
premises.
[0547] The audio recording device(s) may also be pivotable and/or
movable. The audio device(s) or camera(s) can be moveable along a
track or other guiding device or element so that the respective
video recording device or camera can be moved along the commercial
premises interior or exterior. The audio recording device(s) may
record and/or transmit the recorded audio in real time and/or live.
The audio recording device(s) may also be equipped with a storage
medium, for storing the recorded audio, and a transmitter or
transceiver for transmitting the stored audio at a later time. In
this manner, real-time as well as deferred audio transmissions may
be provided.
[0548] The commercial office and/or premises equipment system(s)
1615 may also include an intercom system or device or telephone,
cellular, digital or otherwise, for providing a means by which to
allow the user or operator, or other authorized individual, to
communicate with the persons present in the, or occupants of the,
commercial office and/or premises. The vehicle equipment system
1615 can also include video conferencing devices and/or equipment
for enabling the commercial office and/or premises occupants and/or
individuals inside the commercial office and/or premises, outside
the commercial office and/or premises, and/or in the vicinity of
the commercial office and/or premises, to engage in and/or partake
in video conferences and/or video conferencing with others via a
communication network.
[0549] The premises equipment system(s) 1615 can also include the
premises battery or batteries, premises fuel cell or fuel cells,
battery monitoring equipment, battery charge level, fuel cell
output, fuel cell fuel supply, fuel cell temperature measuring
device, fuel cell by-product (i.e. water or other by-product, heat,
etc.) measuring device, fuel cell output measuring device (i.e.
voltmeter, ammeter, current measure, power meter, etc.).
[0550] The commercial office and/or premises equipment system(s)
1615 may also include monitoring device(s) for reading and/or
monitoring the status and/or condition of any of the commercial
office and/or premises fuel supply, water supply, electrical
generator and/or alternator operation, water usage, heat and/or air
conditioning usage, electricity usage, gas and/or oil or other fuel
usage, battery charge level, electrical system charge level, fuel
cell electrical power output, fuel cell fuel supply level, fuel
cell operating temperature, fuel cell by-product output level,
telephone usage and charges, commercial office and/or premises
equipment and/or appliance usage, etc, a commercial office and/or
premises control system and/or any other commercial office and/or
premises operation and/or system function and/or commercial
premises equipment system(s) operating status and/or condition. The
monitoring device(s), in a preferred embodiment, may have
associated therewith a transceiver or transmitter/receiver system
for transmitting data and/or information recorded and/or read by
the monitoring device(s) to the user or operator and for receiving
signals such as, for example, control signals, by which the user or
operator may exercise control, monitoring and/or security over the
monitoring device(s).
[0551] The commercial premises equipment system(s) 1615 may also
include communication devices, such as two-way radios, radios,
televisions, fire extinguishing equipment, emergency and/or
distress signal equipment, and any electrical, electronic and/or
otherwise activated appliances and/or equipment which may be
utilized in a commercial office and/or premises. Appliances may
include household appliances such as refrigerators, stoves, air
conditioners, ovens, microwave ovens, lighting systems, etc. The
commercial premises equipment system(s) 1615 may also include
electrical and/or electronically controlled dead bolt locking
devices for use on doors, windows, and/or in conjunction with any
other opening components and/or components for gaining access to
various locations on and/or in, and/or any systems, devices, and/or
components of, the commercial premises.
[0552] The commercial premises equipment system(s) 1615 may also
include hydraulic and/or pneumatic equipment and/or other
equipment, assembly equipment, drilling equipment, mining
equipment, construction equipment, excavation equipment, robotic
equipment, electrical equipment of any kind, mechanical equipment
of any kind, electromechanical equipment of any kind, including
winches, etc, which may be remotely activated as described herein.
The premises equipment system(s) 1615 may also include premises
communication devices including, but not limited to radios,
televisions and entertainment devices, two-way radios, cellular
telephones and equipment, etc. The premises equipment system(s)
1615 may also include systems for detecting failures in any of the
herein-described equipment systems and report such failure(s) to
the user or operator whether he or she is in the premises or not in
the premises and/or for reporting such failures to a central
office.
[0553] The commercial premises equipment system(s) 1615 can also
include the commercial premises command computer which is utilized
to control and/or to the various electronic, electrical,
mechanical, and/or electromechanical systems, components, devices,
of the commercial premises. The command computer can control and
monitor any of the herein-described systems, components, and/or
devices, of the commercial premises which can be controlled and/or
monitored by the command computer.
[0554] The command computer can transmit control signals and/or
status request signals to any of the herein-described commercial
premises systems, components, and/or devices, so as to respectively
control and/or monitor the operating status and/or condition of the
respective system, component, and/or device. The command computer
can also receive signals from the respective systems, devices,
and/or components, with said signals containing data and/or
information concerning the operating status, operating state,
and/or condition, of the respective systems, devices, and/or
components. The command computer can be utilized so as to control,
monitor, and/or provide diagnostic information for any of the
commercial premises systems, components, and/or devices, which are
controlled and/or monitored with the command computer.
[0555] The premises equipment system(s) 1615 can also include wear
and/or usage indicators and/or detection devices which can be
connected with either the command computer and/or the central
processing computer and which can be utilized so as to monitor the
wear and/or usage of any of the herein-described electronic,
electrical, mechanical, and/or electromechanical, systems, devices,
and/or components.
[0556] The commercial premises equipment system(s) 1615 can also
include automatic control devices for controlling and/or monitoring
commercial premises systems, devices, and/or components, for
commercial premises maintenance and/or upkeep.
[0557] In the case of commercial, industrial, and/or farm and/or
construction equipment, drilling equipment, mining equipment,
excavating equipment, and/or other commercial equipment, the
premises equipment system(s) 1615 may also include loading and/or
unloading mechanisms, cutting mechanisms, bailing mechanisms,
winches and any and all of the various systems and devices utilized
in conjunction with these premises and/or equipment.
[0558] As noted above, the use of any one or more of the commercial
office and/or premises equipment systems and/or appliances or
devices 1615 and their associated interface devices 1616, may be
optional. The interface devices 1616 may be wireless devices or
modules which need not be directly connected to the CPU 4 or to its
respective equipment system. In this regard, wired connections are
not necessary. In the case of wireless interface devices or modules
1616, corresponding wireless technology and/or systems must be
utilized to provide for the wireless control and operation of the
respective equipment(s).
[0559] The commercial office and/or premises equipment system or
system(s) 1615 receives signals from the CPU 4, which signals serve
to activate or de-activate, or vice versa, whichever the case may
be, the respective commercial office and/or premises equipment
system(s) which are utilized in conjunction with the apparatus
1600. The commercial office and/or premises equipment system(s)
1615 may also include any other suitable commercial office and/or
premises system or equipment feature which may be utilized to draw
attention to the commercial office and/or premises and/or in some
other way impede commercial office and/or premises theft. It should
be noted that any of the interface devices may include any of the
requisite interfacing circuitry which may be necessary to
facilitate CPU 4 control over the respective systems, equipment,
devices and/or appliances which may be utilized.
[0560] The apparatus and method of the preferred embodiment of FIG.
16 is utilized and operates in the manner described above in
conjunction with the vehicle and/or the home embodiments so as to
provide for a system for controlling, monitoring and/or providing
security functions for and over a commercial office and/or
premises. The apparatus and method of the preferred embodiment of
FIG. 16 may be utilized and/or operates in the same or in a similar
and/or analogous manner consistent with the description of the
various embodiments and features of the present invention as
described herein so as to provide control, monitoring and/or
security functions over and with respect to the commercial office
and/or premises with which the apparatus is utilized in conjunction
with.
[0561] In the case of mobile commercial office and/or premises, the
apparatus 1600 may also comprise a commercial office and/or
premises position and locating device 13 which can be utilized in
order to determine the position and/or the location of the
commercial office and/or premises. The position and locating device
13 can be utilized so as to determine the position of the
commercial office and/or premises anywhere in the world and provide
for the transmission of position and/or location data to any
appropriate system receiver so that the commercial office and/or
premises may be located and/or tracked and recovered. In the
preferred embodiment, the position and locating device 13 includes
and utilizes a global positioning device and an associated
transmitter for transmitting position and/or location data to the
authorized user, operator, and/or authorized individual.
[0562] The apparatus 1600 also includes a commercial offices and/or
premises position and locating system receiver 14, which may be
employed by the authorized user, operator, and/or authorized
individual, for receiving and/or processing the data which is
transmitted from the position and locating device 13 as described
above. The apparatus 1 may also comprise a user interface device
(not shown).
[0563] The apparatus and method of the preferred embodiment of FIG.
16 is utilized and operates in the manner described above in
conjunction with the vehicle and/or the home premises embodiments
so as to provide for a system for controlling, monitoring and/or
providing security functions for, and over, a commercial office
and/or premises. The apparatus and method of the preferred
embodiment of FIG. 16 may be utilized and/or operates in the same
or in a similar and/or analogous manner as described in conjunction
with the various embodiments described herein and/or consistent
with the description of the various embodiments and features of the
present invention as described herein, so as to provide control,
monitoring and/or security functions for, and over, a commercial
office and/or premises.
[0564] In this manner, an owner, occupant, and/or authorized
individual, may access a commercial office and/or premises system
at any time and from any location and thereby exercise and/or
perform control, monitoring and/or security functions over any
commercial office and/or premises system, equipment, device and/or
appliance. The owner, occupant, and/or authorized individual, may
also monitor the status, state or operation of any commercial
office and/or premises system, equipment, device and/or appliance.
Lastly, the owner or authorized individual may perform security
related functions or operations on and over the commercial office
and/or premises system, equipment, device and/or appliance.
[0565] The apparatus and method of FIG. 16 can provide for an
immediate, as well as for a deferred, control, activation,
de-activation, programming, monitoring and/or security functions
and/or responses thereto, of, and for, any one or more of the
commercial office and/or premises systems, equipment, devices,
appliances, etc., in the same, similar and/or analogous manner as
described above with in conjunction with the various
embodiments.
[0566] As described above in conjunction with use of the apparatus
and method of the present invention with vehicles and residential
premises, the present invention may, if desired, perform a test in
order to determine the state or status of any particular system,
equipment, device and/or appliance before exercising and/or
performing a given control, monitoring and/or security function.
Depending upon the outcome of the test, the apparatus and method of
the present invention may execute, alter, and/or defer, the
performance and/or the execution of the control, monitoring and/or
security function. For example, a command to shut-off a central
electrical system may be deferred until after the operation of a
security system, which security system may be deemed to have
priority in performing a monitoring and shut-down procedure for the
entire commercial office and/or premises, has been successfully
completed.
[0567] As noted above, the present invention, in any of the herein
described embodiments, as well as modifications, variations and/or
alternate embodiments thereof, may be utilized in conjunction with
a telephone, including analog and digital telephones, a touch-tone
telephone, a cordless telephone and/or a cellular or mobile
telephone, a home and/or a personal computer having associated
telecommunication devices or other suitable peripheral device(s)
such as a modem and/or a fax/modem, or other personal communication
devices, which can operate over an appropriate telecommunications
system, and/or other suitable communications systems, including
radio signal, optical, satellite and/or other communications
systems.
[0568] The communications system(s) utilized in any of the
embodiments described herein may operate anywhere in the
electromagnetic and/or the radio spectrum. In this regard, personal
communication service (PCS) systems and devices, including
stationary, portable and/or hand-held devices, may also be
utilized. Digital signal communications devices and/or systems,
including digital satellite systems, may also be utilized.
Interactive and/or digital televisions, personal communication
devices, personal communications services (PCS) devices,
telephones, including telephones which utilize analog or digital
technology, personal digital assistants, cellular telephones,
display telephones, video telephones, display cellular telephones
and electronically equipped watches, beepers, pagers or paging
systems, and/or other devices and/or personal effects and/or
accessories may also be utilized for interactive use and/or for the
display or output applications and/or functions. In this regard,
the apparatus and method of the present invention may be utilized
on, or over, the Internet and/or the World Wide Web, or other
suitable communication network or medium, in order to control,
monitor and/or provide security functions on, or for, any of the
herein described vehicles, marine vessels or vehicles, aircraft,
recreational vehicles, residential premises and/or commercial
premises.
[0569] The apparatus and method of the present invention may find
applications in areas other than those described and illustrated
above. The present invention may find application in any type of
control, monitoring and/or security system or the like, wherein a
long-range remote-controlled and/or interactive system may be
utilized in order to provide an immediate, or a deferred, response
to a control, monitoring and/or security function, or response
thereto, and/or to exercise and/or provide control, monitoring or
security over desired items and/or devices from a remote location.
The present invention may also be utilized to monitor and/or track
the whereabouts or location of various objects and/or systems. In
this regard, the apparatus and method of the present invention may
be utilized so as to monitor the whereabouts and/or location of
individuals and to provide for a means by which to communicate with
them.
[0570] The apparatus and method of the present invention may be
utilized in conjunction with appropriate security devices for
preventing access by unauthorized individuals. In this regard, the
apparatus and method of the present invention may be utilized in
conjunction with appropriate security access devices, secured
and/or encrypted communication signals, linkups and mediums.
Security measures may include utilization and processing of access
codes, encrypted codes, personal identification codes and/or data,
software-based security measures and/or devices, hardware-based
security measures and/or devices, and/or any combination of
software-based and hardware-based measures and/or devices. The
security measures and/or methods utilized may also include the use
of signal scramblers and associated de-scramblers, and/or any one
or more of the widely known devices and/or methods for providing a
secured communication system and/or link.
[0571] The present invention provides for an apparatus and method
for exercising and/or performing remote-controlled control,
monitoring and/or security functions and/or operations for any type
and variety of vehicles, motor vehicles, marine vessels and
vehicles, aircraft, recreational vehicles, residential premises
and/or commercial premises.
[0572] The apparatus and method of the present invention may also
be programmable for programmed and/or automatic activation,
self-activation, programmed and/or automatic operation and/or
self-operation. The apparatus and method of the present invention
may provide for an immediate, as well as for a deferred, control,
monitoring and/or security function, and/or response thereto, so as
to provide for the immediate and/or for the deferred control,
activation, de-activation, programming, monitoring and/or security,
etc., of any one or more of the respective systems, equipment,
devices, appliances, etc., which may be utilized in any of the
above described embodiments and/or in any modifications, variations
and/or alternate embodiments thereof.
[0573] The present invention may also be equipped with, and be
utilized with, hardware and software necessary for providing
self-monitoring functions, automatic control and/or responses to
occurrences, providing automatic notice of an occurrence and/or a
situation to an owner, user and/or authorized individual. In this
regard, any and all of the embodiments described above may comprise
a monitoring device, a triggering device and/or any other suitable
device for detecting an occurrence and/or a situation which may
warrant providing notice to an owner, user and/or authorized
operator. In this regard, the apparatus may provide a transmission
of any appropriate signal from a transmitter and, if desired, from
a voice synthesizer to the owner, user and/or authorized
individual, or to the location of the individual. The signal
utilized could be in the form of a communication transmission,
depending upon the communication medium utilized, a telephone call,
a voice message, a beeper and/or pager message, an Electronic mail
message, a fax transmission, and/or any other mode of communication
which may be utilized with any of the apparatuses, devices and/or
components described herein.
[0574] Any of the above-described embodiments may be utilized in
conjunction with a central security office and/or agency for
providing use in conjunction with such a central office and/or
agency as described hereinabove. In this manner, each and every
embodiment of the present invention may be utilized with a central
security office and/or agency. The present invention may also
provide a means for occupants of the vehicle, motor vehicle, marine
vessel, aircraft, recreational vehicle, residential premises and/or
commercial premises to contact a central security office and/or
agency and/or any other individual having corresponding
communication equipment and/or who is authorized and/or equipped to
receive such transmissions.
[0575] The present invention can be utilized to access, monitor,
and/or record or store, operation data and/or information for any
of the herein-described vehicles, motor vehicles, boats, marine
vessels, airplanes, aircraft, and/or recreational vehicles, at a
location remote from the respective vehicles, motor vehicles,
boats, marine vessels, airplanes, aircraft, and/or recreational
vehicles, as well as for any of the herein-described residential
premises and/or commercial premises. Any of the respective
operation data and/or information can be obtained at, and/or stored
at, any of the transmitters, home and/or personal computers,
computers, and/or server computers, described herein.
[0576] The present invention can provide for the remote accessing,
obtaining, or storage, of operation data for any one or more of the
herein-described vehicles, motor vehicles, boats, marine vessels,
airplanes, aircraft, and/or recreational vehicles. In addition, the
present invention can provide for the remote accessing, obtaining,
or storage, of operation data for any one or more of the
herein-described residential premises and/or commercial premises,
by accessing, controlling, and/or monitoring, respective premises
operation data recorder and/or monitoring devices.
[0577] The present invention enables an owner, user and/or
authorized individual, to exercise and/or perform convenient
control, monitoring and/or security functions, as and/or
operations, over any of the above described or similar objects,
vehicles, vessels and/or premises, from a remote location. For
example, an individual may conveniently provide control over and
monitor, the state and/or status of a vehicle parked at a location
distant from his present location, and provide control over and
monitor, a boat, an airplane, a vacation home which may be located
in another locale, and/or to provide control over and monitor, a
business office after hours or while absent therefrom.
[0578] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention,
the present invention can be utilized in conjunction with
intelligent agents, software agents and/or mobile agents. In such
embodiments, the agent can be programmed to perform any and all of
the control, monitoring, and/or security functions described herein
on behalf on any of the herein described and/or respective owners,
users, operators of the vehicles, premises, equipment, systems,
devices, and/or components, described herein. Applicant hereby
incorporates by reference herein the subject matter of the Agent
Sourcebook, A Complete Guide to Desktop, Internet and Intranet
Agents, by Alper Caglayan and Colin Harrison, Wiley Computer
Publishing, 1997. Applicant also incorporates by reference herein
the subject matter of Cool Intelligent Agents For The Net, by
Leslie L. Lesnick with Ralph E. Moore, IDG Books Worldwide, Inc.
1997.
[0579] The present invention, in any of the embodiments described
herein, may be designed to be user-friendly. In this regard, the
present invention may be menu-driven, and/or its operation may be
menu-selected, from audio menus, visual menus, or both audio and
visual menus.
[0580] Applicant hereby incorporates by reference herein the
subject matter and the teachings of the following U.S. Pat. Nos.
4,882,579, 4,882,746, 5,003,317, 5,031,103, 5,081,667, 5,113,427,
5,138,649, 5,173,932, 5,208,756, 5,223,844, 5,247,564, 5,276,728,
5,287,398, 5,334,974, 5,389,935, 5,418,537, 5,432,841, 5,513,244,
5,515,043, 5,557,254, 5,563,453, 5,682,133, 6,014,447, 6,009,363,
6,007,095, 6,006,159, 5,973,619, 5,949,345, 5,898,392, 5,844,473,
5,835,871, 5,835,376, 5,809,161, 5,729,452, 5,715,905, 5,660,246,
and 5,550,738.
[0581] The present invention, in any and/or all of the embodiments
described herein, hereby incorporates the teachings of, and can
utilize the teachings of, the above-identified U.S. patents as well
as improve upon the teachings of the above-identified U.S.
patents.
[0582] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, any
of the fuel cells which are or can be utilized can be hydrogen fuel
cells, zinc fuel cells, alkaline fuel cells, phosphoric acid fuel
cells, proton exchange membrane fuel cells, methanol fuel cells,
direct methanol fuel cells, natural gas fuel cells, molten
carbonate fuel cells, solid oxide fuel cells, and/or any other fuel
cell type, and/or any combination thereof.
[0583] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, the
respective CPU 4, server computer 510, computer 970, or other
central processing computer, and/or the server computer 952, and/or
any other central processing computers and/or devices, can maintain
maintenance records and/or service records for any of the
herein-described vehicles, motor vehicles, boats, marine vessels,
airplanes, aircraft, recreational vehicles, residential premises,
and/or any of the commercial premises described herein, and/or for
any of the respective systems, subsystems, devices, and/or
components of same.
[0584] The respective CPU 4 or computers can monitor maintenance
and/or servicing activities, store information regarding
maintenance and/or servicing performed thereon and/or thereto,
and/or provide notification, via e-mail message, fax transmission,
beeper and/or pager message, telephone message, and/or notification
via any other appropriate means, for and/or regarding any of the
herein-described vehicles and/or premises and/or systems,
subsystems, devices and/or components, of same. In this manner,
maintenance and/or service records can be accessed and/or obtained
via the apparatus and method of the present invention by accessing
the respective CPU 4 and/or any of the other computers described
herein. The CPU 4 and/or any of the other computers described
herein can also be programmed to provide notification to the
respective individuals, owners, users and/or occupants described
herein regarding when maintenance and/or service may be needed
and/or may be scheduled.
[0585] The present invention, in any and/or all of the embodiments
described herein, can be utilized to control, monitor and/or
maintain and/or secure any of the herein-described vehicles, motor
vehicles, boats, marine vessels, airplanes, aircraft, recreational
vehicles, residential premises, and/or any of the commercial
premises described herein, and/or for any of the respective
systems, subsystems, devices, and/or components of same. For
example, the present invention can be utilized to monitor and/or
control fuel cells via the Internet, the World Wide Web and/or via
any other communication network.
[0586] The present invention can also be utilized to control and/or
monitor any of the herein-described and respective systems,
equipment systems, subsystems, devices, and/or components of any of
the herein-described vehicles, motor vehicles, boats, marine
vessels, airplanes, aircraft, recreational vehicles, residential
premises, and/or any of the commercial premises.
[0587] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, any
of the systems, subsystems, equipment systems, devices, and/or
components, of any of the herein-described vehicles, motor
vehicles, boats, marine vessels, airplanes, aircraft, recreational
vehicles, residential premises, and/or commercial premises, can be
controlled, monitored, and/or secured, via the CPU 4 and/or via any
other computer, server computer, communication device, and/or any
other devices, described herein.
[0588] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, the
movement, propulsion, direction of travel, and/or the operation, of
any of the herein-described vehicles, motor vehicles, boats, marine
vessels, airplanes, aircraft, recreational vehicles, and/or any of
their respective systems, equipment systems, subsystems, devices,
components and/or appliances, can be controlled via any of the
herein-described transmitters, home and/or personal computers,
and/or other suitable communication devices or computers, via any
of the herein-described server computers, computers, central
processing computers and/or similarly utilized computers and/or
computer systems.
[0589] In another preferred embodiment of the present invention,
the CPU 4 can be the dedicated control device for, and/or can be an
integrated control device and/or component of, any of the
respective systems, subsystems, equipment systems, devices, and/or
components, of any of the herein-described vehicles, motor
vehicles, boats, marine vessels, airplanes, aircraft, recreational
vehicles, residential premises, and/or commercial premises. In this
manner, for example, the CPU 4 and/or the respective apparatus can
be utilized to provide for the direct control, monitoring, and/or
security, of and/or for any one of the specific systems,
subsystems, equipment systems, devices and/or components, of any of
the herein-described vehicles, motor vehicles, boats, marine
vessels, airplanes, aircraft, recreational vehicles, residential
premises, and/or commercial premises.
[0590] In the same manner, any specific system, equipment system,
subsystem, device and/or component, can be directly controlled,
monitored, and/or secured, directly by, from, and/or via, the
dedicated CPU 4 and/or by, from, and/or via, the CPU 4 which can be
an internal and/or an integrated control device and/or component of
the respective system, equipment system, subsystem, device and/or
component.
[0591] In any of the embodiments described herein which provide
centralized processing functionality such as those embodiments of
FIG. 5B, FIG. 11A, and FIG. 11B, any of the respective server
computers 510, computers 970, server computers 952 and computers
970 can be any computers and/or computer systems, central
processing computers, sever computers, network computers, and/or
any other computers and/or communication devices, depending upon
the specific application and/or the communication networks which
are utilized in conjunction therewith. Any of the respective server
computers 510, computers 970, server computers 952 and computers
970, can also be implemented by any number any/or type of computers
and/or computer systems.
[0592] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, any
of the respective transmitters 2, central processing units CPU 4,
home and/or personal computers 150, server computers 510, computers
970, server computers 952, can transmit signals, data and/or
information, to, as well as receive signals, data and/or
information, from, any one or more of the respective transmitters
2, central processing units CPU 4, home and/or personal computers
150, server computers 510, computers 970, server computers 952. Any
of the respective transmitters 2, central processing units CPU 4,
home and/or personal computers 150, server computers 510, computers
970, server computers 952, can communicate with each other in a
bidirectional manner and/or fashion.
[0593] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, the
CPU 4 can generate and transmit an appropriate message and/or
signal, which can contain any appropriate data and/or information,
and transmit said signal to a respective transmitter 2, home and/or
personal computer 150, server computer 510, computer 970, and/or
server computer 952, depending upon the embodiment utilized. In
turn, any of the server computers 510, computers 970, and/or server
computers 952, can process and/or transmit either the signal and/or
a signal generated in response to the signal transmitted from the
CPU 4 to the transmitter 2, the home and/or personal computer,
and/or any other communication device associated with the
respective individual, owner, user, and/or occupant, to be provided
with such notification.
[0594] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, any
of the server computers 510, computers 970, and/or server computers
952, and/or any of the home and/or personal computers or
communication devices 150 described herein and/or utilized in
conjunction with the apparatus and method of the present invention
can comprise and/or can be implemented with any number of computers
or computer systems. In this regard, any of the server computers
510, computers 970, and/or server computers 952, and/or any of the
home and/or personal computers or communication devices 150 can be
a single computer or computer system or can be comprised of, or can
include, a plurality (i.e. two or more) computers or computer
systems. In this manner, any of the server computers 510, computers
970, and/or server computers 952, and/or any of the home and/or
personal computers or communication devices 150 can be comprised
of, and/or can be implemented, by utilizing any number of computers
and/or computer systems.
[0595] The server computer 510, computer 970, and/or server
computer 952, and/or any of the home and/or personal computer or
communication devices 150 can also be comprised of, or can include,
any number of computers and/or computer systems and can also
include any number of transmitters, receivers, and/or other
hardware devices and/or peripheral devices.
[0596] In any and/or all of the embodiments described herein, any
of the receivers or transmitters associated with and/or utilized in
conjunction with any of the server computers 510, computers 970,
and/or server computers 952, and/or any of the home and/or personal
computers or communication devices 150, described herein, can be or
can include any number of receivers or transmitters,
respectively.
[0597] In this manner, any event occurring at and/or involving, any
condition of, any occurrence of, and/or other operating conditions
and/or states regarding, any of the respective systems, equipment
systems, subsystems, devices, components, and/or appliances, of any
of the respective vehicles, motor vehicles, boats, marine vessels,
airplane, aircraft, recreational vehicles, residential premises,
and/or commercial premises, described herein. For example, a
malfunctioning of a respective system(s), equipment system(s),
subsystem(s), device(s), component(s), equipment, and/or
appliance(s), of any of the herein-described vehicles, motor
vehicles, boats, marine vessels, airplanes, aircraft, recreational
vehicles, residential premises, and/or commercial premises, can be
reported to a respective server computer, central processing
computer, and/or central monitoring service, and/or can be reported
to any of the respective individuals, users, owners, and/or
occupants.
[0598] Similarly, any activation, de-activation, enabling,
disabling, and/or any change and/or occurrence in, and/or involving
the status and/or the operational state, of any of the respective
system(s), equipment system(s), subsystem(s), device(s),
component(s), equipment, and/or appliance(s), described herein, can
be reported to a respective server computer, central processing
computer, and/or central monitoring service, and/or can be reported
to any of the respective individuals, users, owners, and/or
occupants.
[0599] While the present invention has been described and
illustrated in various preferred embodiments, such descriptions are
merely illustrative of the present invention and are not to be
construed to be limitations thereof. In this regard, the present
invention encompasses any and all modifications, variations and/or
alternate embodiments with the scope of the present invention being
limited only by the claims which follow.
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