Method and apparatus for changing either driver behavior or vehicle behavior based on current vehicle location and zone definitions created by a remote user

[0001] This application is based on three prior provisional applications, Ser. No. 61/800,726, Ser. No. 61/801,082 and Ser. No. 61/801,725, each filed on Mar. 15, 2013, the benefit of the filing dates of which are hereby claimed under 35 U.S.C. §119(e). This application is also a continuation-in-part of prior application Ser. No. 13/854,919, which was filed on Apr. 1, 2013, which itself is based on provisional application, Ser. No. 61/618,827, filed on Apr. 1, 2012, the benefits of the filing dates of which are hereby claimed under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) and 35 U.S.C. §120. This application is also a continuation-in-part of prior application Ser. No. 13/857,982, which was filed on Apr. 5, 2013, which itself is based on provisional application, Ser. No. 61/621,456, filed on Apr. 6, 2012, the benefits of the filing dates of which are hereby claimed under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) and 35 U.S.C. §120.

[0002] Modern vehicles are often equipped with sophisticated controllers that enable vehicle performance characteristics to be optimized for specific needs. An engine manufacturer may use different programming logic to vary the engine performance characteristics, including horsepower delivered, according to the needs of a specific customer or class of customers. For example, trucks sold for use in over the road trucking, operating for most of their service life on highways; require different performance characteristics than similar trucks operating for most of their service life on city streets in stop and go traffic. A fuel map refers to a set of programming instructions that can be input into an engine control unit (an ECU) to modify performance characteristics of an engine.

[0003] As used herein and in the claims that follow, the term fuel map refers to a specific program (i.e., a set of machine instructions) used by an engine control unit (an ECU) to determine how to respond to various sensor inputs (i.e., changes in driving conditions). The ECU generally responds to changing inputs by changing at least one of the following parameters: fuel flow rate, spark timing, and idle speed. Changing the fuel map (i.e., the instruction set used by the ECU) will change the performance characteristics of the engine. Manufacturers generally select a fuel map to provide satisfactory vehicle performance over a wide range of conditions.

[0004] Other ECU programming instructions sets can be used to modify other performance characteristics, such as maximum road speed, maximum RMP, maximum idle time, etc.

[0005] In general, modification of such programming instructions sets requires a replacement instruction set, a hardware interface to be coupled to a vehicle data port (enabling the instruction set to be sent to the appropriate ECU), and a software interface or software application to manage the replacement. Some third party vendors sells kits enabling vehicle owners to perform their own ECU reprograming using a laptop and a custom hardware interface, programming set, and software application (generally the hardware interface, programming set, and software application are sold together as a kit). Otherwise, vehicle operators need to bring their vehicle to a mechanic to have such ECU reprograming performed.

[0006] It would be desirable to provide vehicle operators with the ability to more readily implement ECU reprograming. Fuel mapping and other performance related instructions set, customized to the specific performance requirements of a vehicle for a specific route or trip, may lead to more cost efficient operations.

[0007] One aspect of the novel concepts presented herein is changing operating parameters of a vehicle based on the vehicle current location. A telematics device in the vehicle (such as the GPS units disclosed herein) tracks the vehicles location. A fleet operator uses a back office application or remote server to define various behaviors based on the vehicle locations. Those definitions are conveyed to the vehicle in real time via a wireless data link. A data connection between the telematics/GPS device inputs those definitions to various vehicle controllers, changing the vehicles behavior.

[0008] The remote server application monitors the vehicle's location, and when a vehicle approaches a location (i.e., a user defined location or a user defined geographical area, such as manufacturing complex or an airport) for which a zone based behavior has been defined, that behavior is sent to the vehicle. In at least some embodiments, users will be able to define how close a vehicle needs to get to a zone before the zone based behavior is communicated to the vehicle over a wireless data link (such as a cellular, satellite, or Wi-Fi data link, noting Wi-Fi is generally only appropriate in locations with dense Wi-Fi connectivity). For vehicles assigned to relatively long routes and relatively few zone based behavior definitions apply, the zone based behavior might be sent to the vehicle when the vehicle is within 100 miles (or 50 miles, or 25 miles, such distances being exemplary and not limiting) of the zone. For vehicles assigned to local routes in areas where many different zone based behavior definitions apply, the zone based behavior might be sent to the vehicle when the vehicle is within 5 miles (or 2 miles, or 1 mile, such distances being exemplary and not limiting) of the zone.

[0009] The concepts disclosed herein also encompass sending all zone based behavior definitions to the vehicle, and letting the vehicle monitor its location, to determine if any such zone based behavior definitions apply to the vehicles current location. Such embodiments will require some amount of dedicated memory resources at the vehicle in which the zone based behavior definitions can be stored. In another embodiment, the remote server will include all appropriate zone based behavior definitions to a vehicle based on the vehicle's scheduled route for a particular time period (such as day, week, or month, noting that such time periods are exemplary and not limiting).

[0010] When the vehicles current location corresponds to some zone based behavior definition, the zone based behavior will be imposed. In some embodiments, the zone based behavior definition corresponds to a specific driver behavior, and that behavior (i.e., instructions) is presented to the driver on an in vehicle display (or in some embodiments, sent to a mobile computing device, such as a tablet or smart phone, assigned to the driver, noting that in such embodiments the tablet/smart phone should be mounted to a cradle to enable hands free operation). When the vehicle leaves the location, the instructions can be automatically removed from the display.

[0011] In some embodiments, the zone based behavior definition corresponds to a specific vehicle behavior, and that behavior (i.e., instructions) is conveyed to an appropriate vehicle controller to implement the desired behavior. When the vehicle leaves the location, the controller function will automatically revert to its prior state.

[0012] Exemplary zone based vehicle definitions include: A tank farm may want to inhibit regeneration while inside their boundaries. This can be implemented by revising vehicle controller programming relating to automatic diesel particle filter regeneration such that no regeneration is allowed at that zone. A port may want a 15 mph truck limit. This can be implemented by revising vehicle controller programming relating to speed control such that vehicle speed is limited to 15 MPH in that zone. A warehouse may want lights off. This can be implemented by revising vehicle controller programming relating to light control such that no lights are allowed at that zone.

[0013] Exemplary zone based driver definitions include: A tank farm may have a rule that vehicles cannot idle in the tank farm (must be moving or shut down). This can be implemented by displaying instructions to that effect to the driver using an in vehicle display. In at least some embodiments, an alert is automatically sent to the remote user if the driver violates the rules. In other embodiments, the display (and/or a flashing light, or an audible alarm) is used to alert the driver when rules are violated.

[0014] Yet another aspect of the concepts disclosed herein relates to remotely imposing changes in vehicle behavior to facilitate theft recovery. The remote user can wirelessly send derate commands to a vehicle, and the appropriate vehicle controller programming would be altered to effect the desired change. For example, such a change might set the maximum vehicle speed to a relatively low level, such that the vehicle could still be driven, but only at a maximum speed of 15 MPH or 25 MPH (such speeds being exemplary, but not limiting). Such relatively low speeds will enable local law enforcement to catch the vehicle, and will also draw attention to the vehicle, increasing the likelihood that a law enforcement officer will stop the vehicle even if that officer has not received notification that the vehicle has been stolen.

[0015] The above noted methods are preferably implemented by at least one processor (such as a computing device implementing machine instructions to implement the specific functions noted above) or a custom circuit (such as an application specific integrated circuit).

[0016] This Summary has been provided to introduce a few concepts in a simplified form that are further described in detail below in the Description. However, this Summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0028] Exemplary embodiments are illustrated in referenced Figures of the drawings. It is intended that the embodiments and Figures disclosed herein are to be considered illustrative rather than restrictive. No limitation on the scope of the technology and of the claims that follow is to be imputed to the examples shown in the drawings and discussed herein. Further, it should be understood that any feature of one embodiment disclosed herein can be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment that is disclosed, unless otherwise indicated.

Non-Transitory Memory Medium

[0029] Many of the concepts disclosed herein are implemented using a processor that executes a sequence of logical steps using machine instructions stored on a physical or non-transitory memory medium. It should be understood that where the specification and claims of this document refer to a memory medium, that reference is intended to be directed to a non-transitory memory medium. Such sequences can also be implemented by physical logical electrical circuits specifically configured to implement those logical steps (such circuits encompass application specific integrated circuits). As used herein and in the claims that follow, the terms processor and controller have been used interchangeably with respect to describing an element to implement a specific logical function, and applicant intends the terms to be interpreted broadly, as encompassing elements that implement specifically defined logical functions (which in some cases rely on machine instructions stored in a memory to implement the function). Even where the term processor is used in place of the term controller, applicant believes that the artisan of skill would be able to readily determine from the disclosure provide herein what additional elements, such as peripherals (ports, clock, timers, UARTs, and ADC) and memory (including, but not limited to EEPROM, SRAM, EPROM, and flash) will be used in connection with such a processor to implement the described logical function.

Exemplary Logic for Imposing Zone Based Behavior to Drivers/Vehicles

[0030] FIG. 1 is a high level flow chart showing the overall method steps implemented in accord with one aspect of the concepts disclosed herein. In general, the method being disclosed will be used by operators of fleets of vehicles. While it could be used in the context of a single vehicle, it will likely be of particular value to fleet operators. Certain steps of the method are implemented by a user accessing an application that allows the user to select locations, vehicles, and define one or more zone based behaviors. Certain steps of the method are automatically implemented by a controller remote from the vehicle. Certain steps of the method are automatically implemented by a controller located at the vehicle.

[0031] Referring to FIG. 1, in a block 10 a user remote from a vehicle is able to utilize an application to select a location (and in some embodiments a specific vehicle, noting that in other embodiments the zone based behavior definitions will apply to all fleet vehicles), and to define a zone based behavior for that location. In at least some embodiments, selecting the location will involve the user interacting with a map. The location may be a specific coordinate (i.e., a specific latitude and longitude), or a more generalized location (such as a state, county, or city). In at least some embodiments the remote user will be able to define a geofence (a virtual perimeter for a real-world geographical area), and the zone based behavior will apply within that geo-fence.

[0032] Where the zone based behavior definition relates to driver behavior, in at least some embodiments the remote user can enter any textual instructions they desire to be displayed to the driver when a vehicle is at the specified zone/location. More common behaviors can be selected using a menu. Where the zone based behavior definition relates to vehicle behavior, in at least some embodiments the remote user can select from one or more predefined options, some of which enable the user to fine tune the behavior (i.e., where the behavior is speed based, the user will be able to select a desired speed limit).

[0033] In a block 12, a telematics device at the vehicle (noting that this can be simultaneously implemented by a fleet of vehicles) collects vehicle position data during vehicle operation. That vehicle position data is wirelessly communicated to a remote monitoring service (generally the same remote service employed to implement the steps of block 10, although the functions could be distributed to different computing systems). In general, the vehicle location is updated on a frequent basis (i.e., once every 5 minute or less during normal vehicle operation, noting that the specific time interval between updates can vary considerably). In a block 14 the remote monitoring service analyzes the vehicle location to determine if the vehicle is approaching a location for which a zone based behavior definition has been defined. In at least some embodiments the remote user will be able to define how close the vehicle needs to get to a defined zone before any action is taken. In other embodiments that distance is predefined and not user selectable. Exemplary distances include 1 mile, 5 miles, and 10 miles, although the concepts disclosed herein are applicable to significant variation with regard to how close is “close enough”. If the vehicle is not close to a location for which a zone based behavior has been defined, the logic loops back to block 12 and additional position data is received from the vehicle, and analyzed.

[0034] If in decision block 14 it is determined that the vehicle is approaching a location for which a zone based behavior has been defined, then in a block 16 the remote processor implementing block 14 automatically wirelessly conveys the corresponding zone based behavior definition to the vehicle. The method steps of the following blocks are implemented by a vehicle controller.

[0035] In a block 18 a vehicle controller determines if the zone based behavior definition applies to driver behavior. If so, then the zone based behavior definition is automatically presented to the driver on an in vehicle display. The concepts herein also encompass embodiments in which the zone based behavior definition is presented to the user audibly, using a speaker in the vehicle. The logic then processed to a block 22. If in block 18 the vehicle controller determines if the zone based behavior definition does not apply to driver behavior, block 20 is skipped and the logic moves directly to block 22.

[0036] In block 22 the vehicle controller determines if the zone based behavior definition applies to vehicle behavior. If not, the logic terminates. However, if the zone based behavior definition applies to vehicle behavior, then in a block 24 changes are automatically made to the vehicle controller able to impose the desired behavior. The logic then terminates (however, as discussed below in connection with FIG. 2, in at least some embodiments the controller programming reverts to its prior state after the vehicle leaves the zone).

[0037] Significantly, in the method of FIG. 1, the remote user/remote monitoring service was responsible for monitoring a vehicle's location, and the zone based behavior definitions are sent to the vehicle when the vehicle approaches the zone. In the method of FIG. 2, the zone based behavior definitions are sent to the vehicle upon creation (or after being affirmatively selected by a remote user), and the vehicle monitors its location and implements the zone based behavior instructions when the vehicle approaches the zone. Again, certain steps of the method are implemented by a user accessing an application that allows the user to select locations, vehicles, and define one or more zone based behaviors, while certain steps of the method are automatically implemented by a controller remote from the vehicle, and certain steps of the method are automatically implemented by a controller located at the vehicle.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 2, in block 10 a user remote from a vehicle is able to utilize an application to select a location (and in some embodiments a specific vehicle, noting that in other embodiments the zone based behavior definitions will apply to all fleet vehicles), and to define a zone based behavior for that location. In at least some embodiments, a plurality of the zone based behavior definitions will have been defined, and the remote user is able to select a specific location and a specific zone based behavior definition. In a block 11, a processor remote from the vehicle automatically wirelessly conveys the selected zone based behavior definitions to the vehicle. Note the method steps of the following blocks are implemented by a vehicle controller.

[0039] In a block 13, a telematics device at the vehicle collects vehicle position data during vehicle operation, and determines if the current vehicle location is near a zone. Note that because the zone based behavior definition is already at the vehicle, the logic of block 13 may be trigger only when the vehicle actually is at (i.e., not approaching, or 1, 2, 5, or 10 miles out), the defined zone. If the vehicle is not currently at or approaching a defined zone, the logic loops back to block 13 and the location of the vehicle continues to be monitored and compared to the defined locations (i.e., the zone based behavior definitions sent to the vehicle in block 11, including zone based behavior definitions that may have been sent previously). If in block 13 the vehicle controller analyzing the vehicle location and the zone based behavior definitions determines that the vehicle is at (or approaching) a location corresponding to a zone based behavior definitions, the logic moves to block 18.

[0040] As before, in block 18 a vehicle controller determines if the zone based behavior definition applies to driver behavior. If so, then the zone based behavior definition is automatically presented to the driver on an in vehicle display. The concepts herein also encompass embodiments in which the zone based behavior definition is presented to the user audibly, using a speaker in the vehicle. The logic then is processed to a block 22. If in block 18 the vehicle controller determines if the zone based behavior definition does not apply to driver behavior, block 20 is skipped and the logic moves directly to block 22.

[0041] Again, in block 22 the vehicle controller determines if the zone based behavior definition applies to vehicle behavior. If not, the logic moves to a block 26. However, if the zone based behavior definition applies to vehicle behavior, then in a block 24 changes are automatically made to the vehicle controller able to impose the desired behavior. The logic then moves to a block 26, which is implemented only when the vehicle moves away from (i.e., leaves) the zone for which the zone based behavior definition applied. Once the vehicle leaves that location (as detected by the position sensing component at the vehicle), then in a block 28 the controller programming reverts to its prior state (and/or the displayed instructions to the driver are removed).

[0042] FIG. 3 is an exemplary screen shot of a webpage accessed by a remote user to define zone based behaviors for vehicles and/or drivers in accord with the concepts disclosed herein. It should be understood that the exemplary webpage of FIG. 3 is based on providing web based software tool to fleet operators and/or vehicle owners to define based behaviors for vehicles and/or driver. A similar graphical user interface could be implemented as part of a stand-alone software package, but will most often be deployed as part of a suite of fleet based telematics applications, which likely will include a track and trace functionality (i.e., the ability to remotely monitor vehicle locations, and the ability to view vehicle locations overlaid onto map data).

[0043] Referring to FIG. 3, a webpage 101 includes a first portion 103 that enables a remote user to select a specific asset (and/or a specific driver) from among a plurality of assets (and or drivers). It should be understood that the concepts disclosed here in encompass enabling remote users to define zone based behavior definitions and apply those definitions remotely to one or more of: an individual driver, a subset of all the drivers in a fleet, all of the drivers in a fleet, an individual vehicle, a subset of all the vehicles in a fleet, all of the vehicles in a fleet. In an exemplary embodiment the remote user will be provided with menu options enabling the remote user to define a specific date and time (or a range or dates and times) for when the zone based behavior definitions apply. As shown in FIG. 3, the remote user has decided to apply the zone based behavior to all vehicles (assets) and all drivers, using the selection/text boxes in section 103.

[0044] Webpage 101 also includes a portion 105 that enables a remote user to define a specific driver behavior to impose in a specific zone. Portion 105 includes a text box into which the remote user defines the desired behavior. Essentially, the remote user is crafting rules (i.e., zone based driver behavior definitions) to inform the driver of what rules apply in the defined zone. Often such rules will have been defined by an owner or operator of a location (such as an industrial or manufacturing plant the driver will be delivering cargo to our picking up cargo from). The rules may also be based on knowledge the remote user has about the area and wants drivers to adhere to a set of behaviors in that area (i.e., the zone is heavily congested and accidents are frequent, and the remote user wants to impose a lower than legal speed limit in the zone to reduce accidents, or the zone is mountainous and proper gear and RPM selection is crucial to maintaining good fuel economy, and the remote user wants to impose a specific set of operating conditions in the zone to maximize fuel efficiency). As shown in FIG. 3, the remote user has crafted a zone based driver behavior definition which, when presented to the driver as the driver approaches and/or arrives at that zone, informs the driver that a particular entrance to the facility at the zone must be used, that the vehicle lights must always be on in the zone, that a maximum speed limit in the zone is 10 MPH, and that no idling is allowed in the zone (vehicle must be in motion or shut down, recognizing that relatively small amounts of idle (on the order of a few minutes) may be required). Note that in general zone based driver behavior definitions are advisory in nature, and the driver must participate in honoring them (though the concepts disclosed herein encompass tracking driver behavior, and reporting non-compliance to the remote user). In contrast, zone based vehicle behavior definitions are imposed by selectively changing vehicle controller programming to enforce the defined behavior). As shown in FIG. 3, the remote user has selected the option of reporting non-compliance to the remote user, and has not selected the option of alerting the driver when non-conformance is detected (such alerts can be provided to the driver via an in-vehicle display, sent to a mobile computing device such as a tablet or smart phone, and/or can be played over a speaker at the vehicle). Participating vehicles will be equipped with telematics devices that gather vehicle and driver based information from the vehicle and communicate that data to the remote user (often a fleet monitoring vendor that provides such services to fleet operators). An exemplary telematics device is described below. In general, such a device will be able to establish a two way wireless data link with the remote user, will be able to monitor vehicle and driver behavior (including vehicle position data), will be able to receive from the remote user modified vehicle programming instruction sets for zone based vehicle behavior definitions and communicate such instructions sets to the appropriate vehicle controllers, will be able to receive from the remote user zone based driver behavior definitions, and will be able to display (or communicate with a display) those zone based driver behavior definition received from the remote user when approaching or arriving at the defined zone.

[0045] Webpage 101 also includes a portion 107 that enables a remote user to define a specific vehicle behavior to impose in a specific zone. Portion 107 includes a plurality of predefined vehicle behaviors that can be imposed. In general, the available vehicle behaviors will be a function of the design of a specific vehicle, and the ability of that vehicle to receive over the air controller reprograming to impose specific behaviors. Where the imposed behavior deals with an aftermarket component (aftermarket lights, aftermarket power take off units (PTOs), aftermarket lifts, such reprogramming will likely be readily achievable. Where the controller that needs to be reprogrammed is a core EOM ECU, in general the manufacturer will need to have designed the system to enable such reprogramming, or some “jail breaking” might be required. It should be noted that vehicle manufacturers are recognizing the potential value of remote ECU reprogramming, and such functionality is likely to be designed into the next generation of vehicles. FIG. 3 graphically illustrates a list of exemplary predefined vehicle behavior definitions. It should be understood that the list presented is exemplary, not limiting, as many other behaviors are possible. It also should be recognized that such a list may be highly dependent on the specific vehicle. While not shown, in at least one embodiment the list presented to the remote user will have been filtered based on the asset selected, based on information about the vehicle capabilities accessible to the processor implementing webpage 101. As shown in FIG. 3, the remote user has selected the menu item referencing that no diesel particulate filter regeneration is allowed in the defined zone. To impose that behavior, modifications to the vehicle controller responsible for automated diesel particulate filter regeneration will be provided to the vehicle, and implemented when the vehicle arrives (or approaches some predefined distance) at the zone. The other behaviors will be imposed by similar implementing control logic changes at the vehicle controller responsible for the defined behavior.

[0046] With respect to the no idle behaviors, in at least one embodiment when the no idle behavior is selected, the remote user is prompted to enter in a maximum allowable idle time before the vehicle forces a shut down. Exemplary, but not limiting maximum allowable idles times include 1 minute, 2 minutes, 5 minutes, and 10 minutes. In at least one embodiment when the no idle behavior is selected, a default maximum idle time value is applied (noting that exemplary, but not limiting maximum allowable idles times include 1 minute, 2 minutes, 5 minutes, and 10 minutes).

[0047] With respect to the maximum speed behavior, in at least one embodiment when the maximum speed behavior is selected, the remote user is prompted to enter in a maximum allowable speed before the vehicle ignores further speed increase commands from the driver. Exemplary, but not limiting maximum allowable speeds include 2 MPH, 5 MPH, 10 MPH, 15 MPH, 25 MPH, and 40 MPH. Relatively lower speeds will be likely associated with zones related to industrial plants, hospitals, schools, ports, etc., while relatively higher speeds will likely be associated with zones related to cities, sections of highway prone to accidents, etc.

[0048] Finally, webpage 101 also includes a portion 109, which is a map that the remote user can manipulate to define a zone where the zone based behavior will apply. As shown in FIG. 3, the remote user has drawn a geo fence 111 around an area representing an industrial facility. In additional to custom geofenced areas, remote users may also be able to access predefined geofenced areas, such as schools, cities, counties, neighborhoods, etc. Remote users may also define specific coordinates. Where a single coordinate is selected, in at least one embodiment the user is prompted for an expansion factor, so that the zone based behavior definition is imposed in that expanded area. Exemplary expansion factors include, but are not limited to, 100 feet, 200 feet, 300 feet, 500 fee, 1000 feet, ¼ mile, ½ mile, and 1 mile. Note that each user defined zone is provided with a unique description (see ZONE 0115 in the text box), so that remote users can define many different zone based behavior definitions, store them, and selectively have those definitions apply based on interactions with webpage 101 or a variant thereof.

Exemplary GPS Device with Onboard Computing Environment

[0049] FIG. 4 schematically illustrates a vehicle 23 that includes a GPS unit 27 configured to collect GPS data that can be used to determine if an enrolled vehicle is approaching a location for which a remote user has established zone based driver/vehicle definitions. Generally as discussed above in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2, in some embodiments a remote monitoring service analyzes the GPS data received from enrolled vehicles to determine if a vehicle is approaching such a zone/location, whereas in other embodiments, the locations or zone based definition are sent from the remote server to the enrolled vehicle, and a processor in the vehicle makes a determination of whether any zone based behavior definition applies. In some embodiments, a list of locations is stored at the vehicle, and when the vehicle approaches a noted location the processor in the vehicle calls the remote server to obtain the zone based behavior definitions that apply to that location (the list of locations will consume fewer memory resources). Vehicle 23, such as a bus or a truck (or automobile, or construction equipment, generally as described above) includes GPS unit 27 coupled with an ignition system 25 of the vehicle. In an exemplary embodiment, the GPS unit will be coupled with the ignition switch, such that it is assumed that when the ignition switch is on, the engine of the vehicle is actually running, and the GPS unit will be activated. As described in greater detail below, GPS data can be used for a plurality of metrics, including idle time, deceleration time and magnitude, acceleration time and magnitude, and to determine if a driver has violated a speed limit. The most basic GPS unit is able to determine a position of the vehicle at a specific time. That positional information can be used to calculate the speed of a vehicle by determining the change in position of the vehicle between two successive points in time, and to calculate the acceleration or deceleration of the vehicle by determining the change in speed of the vehicle over a time increment. More typically, GPS units automatically determine position, speed, and acceleration/deceleration internally, and these metrics would then not need to be determined by an external computing device (remote or local).

[0050] GPS unit 27 preferably includes or is connected to a wireless transmitter (not separately shown), such that the GPS data can be wirelessly transmitted to a remote computing device, preferably in real-time. As noted above in connection with the method of FIG. 1, the remote computing device can be programmed to monitor vehicle location and zone based behavior definitions, such that when a vehicle approaches such a zone, the corresponding zone based behavior definition is conveyed to the vehicle (preferably with sufficient advance timing so that the zone based behavior definition is available at the vehicle when the vehicle arrives at the defined location). It should be recognized that as an alternative, GPS unit 27 can include an onboard memory, such that either the zone based behavior definitions (or at least the locations/zones) are stored in the GPS unit, and the GPS unit monitors the location of the vehicle to determine if any zone based behavior should apply. It should be understood that the concepts disclosed herein encompasses coupling such a GPS unit to vehicle sensors and/or a vehicle data bus, such that driver behavior can be monitored, to determine if the driver has complied with any zone based driver behavior definitions presented to the driver at a particular location. While not specifically shown in FIG. 4, it should be understood that GPS unit 27 can include a processor that uses GPS data to determine if any zone based behaviors apply to the current vehicle location.

[0051] FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of an exemplary telematics device added to an enrolled vehicle to implement one or more of the methods of disclosed herein. An exemplary telematics unit 160 includes a controller 162, a wireless data link component 164, a memory 166 in which data and machine instructions used by controller 162 are stored (again, it will be understood that a hardware rather than software-based controller can be implemented, if desired), a position sensing component 170 (such as a GPS receiver), and a data connection component 168 (noting that in some embodiments a plurality of data connect ions are provided). Exemplary data connections include physical data links, as well as wireless data links such as Wi-Fi, IR, and Bluetooth™. Data connection component 168 enables zone based driver behavior definitions (or rules) to be conveyed to a display device to present to a user when the vehicle arrives at or approaches a location for which a remote user has defined a zone based driver behavior. Data connection component 168 also enables zone based vehicle behavior definitions (or programming instructions) to be conveyed to vehicle controller responsible for controlling a particle vehicle system (such as lights, diesel particulate filter regeneration, engine idling, and other behaviors generally as noted in portion 107 of FIG. 3, noting that such vehicle behaviors are simply exemplary, and are not intended to be limiting) when the vehicle arrives at or approaches a location for which a remote user has defined a zone based vehicle behavior.

[0052] The capabilities of telematics unit 160 are particularly useful to fleet operators. Telematics unit 160 is configured to collect position data from the vehicle (to enable vehicle owners to track the current location of their vehicles, and where they have been) and to collect vehicle operational data (including but not limited to engine temperature, coolant temperature, engine speed, vehicle speed, brake use, idle time, and fault codes), and to use the RF component to wirelessly convey such data to vehicle owners. These data transmissions can occur at regular intervals, in response to a request for data, or in real-time, or be initiated based on parameters related to the vehicle's speed and/or change in location. The term “real-time” as used herein is not intended to imply the data are transmitted instantaneously, since the data may instead be collected over a relatively short period of time (e.g., over a period of seconds or minutes), and transmitted to the remote computing device on an ongoing or intermittent basis, as opposed to storing the data at the vehicle for an extended period of time (hour or days), and transmitting an extended data set to the remote computing device after the data set has been collected. Data collected by telematics unit 160 can be conveyed to the vehicle owner using RF component 164. If desired, additional memory can be included to temporarily store data if the RF component cannot transfer data, and/or to store locations corresponding to defined zones (i.e., zones where specific vehicle or driver behaviors have been defined), or the specific zone based behavior definitions themselves (noting that storing the zones only will reduce memory demand, but will require a call to a remote server to obtain the specific zone based behavior definitions when the vehicle approaches a defined zone). In particularly preferred embodiments the RF components is GSM or cellular technology based.

[0053] In at least one embodiment, the controller is configured to implement steps 12, 18, 20, and 22 of FIG. 1. In at least one embodiment, the controller is configured to implement steps 13, 18, 20, 22, and 26 of FIG. 2. It should be understood that any of the vehicle based steps of FIGS. 1 and 2 could be distributed to one or more other processers/controllers at the vehicle.

Exemplary Tablet for in Vehicle Use to Present Zone Based Driver Behaviors to Driver

[0054] FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of an exemplary mobile computing device 100 for fleet telematics including a display 106 and a controller 102 configured to present at least one telematics application to a user, and to present a zone based driver behavior to a driver in accord with the concepts disclosed herein. A non-transitory physical memory 104 is included, upon which machine instructions define one or more applications are stored. Note that in embodiments including device 100 the zone based behavior definitions can be stored in memory 104, or locations corresponding to zones for which behaviors have been defined (noting if locations alone are stored, a call to a remote server for such behaviors will need to be made, generally as discussed above). Device 100 includes an optional RFID reader 108 (or other sensor) that enables drivers to log into the tablet, so that non-compliant behavior (in response to zone based driver behavior rules imposed at a selected zone) can be tracked to a specific driver. In exemplary but not limiting embodiments, the device includes at least one data input 110 that can be used to logically couple the device to a vehicle data bus or some other device (such as telematics device 160 of FIG. 5). Note that in embodiments where the current location of the vehicle is monitored to determine if the vehicle is approaching a location for which a zone based behavior has been defined, controller 102 can implement that function so long as the controller has access to the vehicle location data (from the exemplary devices of FIG. 4 or 5) and to the defined zone locations.

[0055] Device 100 may include additional components, including but not limiting to a GSM component, a Wi-Fi component, a USB component, a rechargeable battery, and in at least one embodiment a GPS component (in which case the GPS devices of FIGS. 4 and 5 are not required).

[0056] Significantly, the display (or speakers) of device 100 can be used to provide the zone based driver behavior rules in addition to, or instead of the display. Controller 102 can be employed in some embodiments to implement one of more of the vehicle side steps of FIGS. 1 and 2.

[0057] FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram of device 100 implementing a navigation app that is presented to the driver during vehicle operation on display 106. Significantly, an info pane 112 is not consumed by the map portion, and remains visible to the driver. Any the zone based driver behavior definition can be visually presented to the driver on info pane 112 when the driver approaches or arrives at a zone for which a remote user has defined a zone based driver behavior.

[0058] In one preferred embodiment, each driver is provided with an RFID tag, which can be scanned into device 100, or a secret pin number to identify him or herself to the tablet. As compliance with zone based driver behavior rules may be important to a driver's career development, it is important to have a system for unerringly identifying the driver credited with any non-compliant behavior. Other applications, such as the driver log application and inspection application, will similarly employ verifiable credentials. In at least one embodiment, the tablet cannot be used without first logging onto the tablet using verifiable credentials.

Exemplary Accessory Display for Presenting Zone Based Driver Behaviors to Driver

[0059] Another aspect of the concepts disclosed herein is an accessory display that can be used in connection with a telematics device that itself might not include a display, such as the GPS based devices of FIGS. 4 and 5, to provide a display upon which zone based driver behavior rules can be presented to the driver when the vehicle approaches or arrives at a location for which a remote user has defined a behavior.

[0060] FIG. 8 schematically illustrates an accessory display 115 that can be used along with a processor in the vehicle to visually present zone based driver behavior rules to a driver, in accord with the concepts disclosed herein, where the accessory display can also be used to uniquely log in drivers, so any non-compliant behavior reports identify the correct driver. The accessory display does not possess significant processing power, and is used in connection with some other device at the vehicle that provides the required processing of vehicle data in order to what determine what zone based driver behavior rules should be presented to the driver. A data port on the back enables the accessory device to be logically coupled to the device (such as the devices of FIGS. 4 and 5) providing the processing. The accessory device does not need to include a wireless data link when used in connection with other devices having such functionality. The accessory display provides two basic functions (possibly three if equipped with audio). First, the accessory display provides zone based driver behavior rules to the driver in response to the vehicle arriving or approaching a location for which a remote user has defined a specific driver behavior. Second, the accessory display enables drivers to uniquely identify themselves using RFID cards (i.e., the accessory display includes an RFID card reader). If desired, the accessory display can include a speaker to provide audible feedback as well. Also if desired, the RFID component can be eliminated, however, it is desirable to provide some other mechanism to enable drivers to uniquely log into to the driver feedback system (perhaps using a keyboard, biometric device, or other input device in the vehicle.

[0061] Note than an icon of a hand holding a card is shown on the front of the accessory display. The icon provides the driver a visual reference of where the RFID driver card needs to be relative to the accessory display in order to be read.

Exemplary System Environment

[0062] FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram of an exemplary system employed to implement some of the concepts disclosed herein. The functional block diagram illustrates exemplary components used in each vehicle 128 that is enrolled in a zone based driver/vehicle behavior monitoring service, to implement some of the method steps discussed above. An exemplary zone based driver/vehicle behavior monitoring service is based on adding a memory 136 and a bi-directional data link 134 to each enrolled vehicle (in an exemplary, but not limiting embodiment, the data buffer and data link are combined into a single component). It should be understood that the memory (other than memory required for machine instructions for controller functionality) storage is not strictly required for embodiments where the zone based driver/vehicle behavior definitions (or at least the locations where such definitions apply, so a call to a remote server can be made to acquire such zone based driver/vehicle behavior definitions when the enrolled vehicle approaches the zone where such definitions apply). In an exemplary embodiment, the data link is a combination radio frequency (RF) transmitter and receiver, although separate transmitters and receivers could be used (note the term RF specifically encompasses cellular telephone based data links) A data terminal can optionally be included in the vehicle to facilitate operator entry of information and operator transmission of information that is presented to the operator on a display within the vehicle. While RF data transmission represents an exemplary embodiment, other types of data transmission could be employed. If the vehicle does not already include GPS (i.e. position) data collecting components 130, such components are added (noting that the collection of other types of data, particularly data than can show whether a driver has complied with zone based driver behavior rules is implemented in some embodiments). Most vehicles manufactured today include operational data collecting components already, as many of today's vehicles are designed to use such continuously generated operational data to control operation of the vehicle in real-time, and such vehicles generally include data collecting components, data buses, and controllers that use the operational data to control the operation of the vehicle. The vehicle includes at least one processor 132 that performs the function of managing the transmission of GPS data from the vehicle to the remote monitoring service (and driver compliance with zone based driver behavior rules). In some embodiments, such a processor may also be tasked with evaluating whether the vehicle's current position requires zone based driver/vehicle behavior definitions to be imposed. In general, processor 132 can be used to implement the vehicle side processor functions of the methods of claims 1 and 2, noting that multiple processors can be employed as well, such that not all functions are implemented by the same processor.

[0063] An output 138 is also included, to present zone based driver behavior definitions to the driver in a form that can be easily understood by the driver (generally the speaker or display. Output 138 can be implemented using a speaker providing an audible output, and using a display providing a visual output. Note that output 138 can be combined into a single component with the memory, GPS collecting component, processor and the data link, so only a single additional component is added to the vehicle. In some embodiments, output 138 is a speaker system already installed in the vehicle, such as an OEM stereo system. In some embodiments, the display and or speakers are part of a smart phone or mobile computing device used by the driver in the vehicle (see element 144).

[0064] In a related preferred embodiment the processor, the GPS component, any buffer, and data link are combined into a single telematics device, and an additional display may be required (such as the accessory of FIG. 8). Such a device will send GPS and vehicle/driver data to the remote computing device discussed above at a plurality of different times during the course of the operation of the vehicle. In general, the telematics device will transmit data at intervals ranging from as frequently as every 5 to 15 seconds, or as rarely as every 5 minutes, recognizing that such intervals can vary, and are intended to be exemplary, and not limiting.

[0065] As indicated in FIG. 9, a remote computing device 140 (or network of devices operated by the monitoring service) is logically coupled via a network 142 (such as the Internet) to one or more computing devices 146 accessible to a vehicle operator (noting that in at least some embodiments, the monitoring service performs the monitoring function for a plurality of different vehicle operators/fleets). Also shown is an optional driver computing device 144 (such as a personal computer, a tablet, or a smart phone). In some embodiments, fleets operators may want to give drivers access to a webpage similar to that shown in FIG. 3, not to enable drivers to define zone based behaviors, but to let drivers review zone based behaviors for areas they are tasked with operating in. This will enable drivers to understand what zone based behaviors definitions they may encounter in their work day (noting only one such driver device is shown in the Figure; however, the monitoring service will likely be monitoring the performance of a plurality of drivers, each likely having access to a different computing device 144). Network 142 facilitates communication between computing devices 140, 144, and 146, enabling the monitoring service to efficiently communicate with drivers and vehicle operators. It should be noted that the concepts disclosed herein encompass embodiments where the monitoring service and vehicle operator are the same entity.

[0066] The concepts disclosed herein are in at least some embodiments intended to be used by fleet owners operating multiple vehicles, and the GPS data conveyed to the remote location for monitoring will include an ID component that enables each enrolled vehicle to be uniquely identified.

Exemplary Computing Environment

[0067] FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram of an exemplary computing device that can be employed to implement some of the method steps disclosed herein. It should be understood that the concepts disclosed herein encompass processing of data collected at a vehicle both in the vehicle and at a remote computing device.

[0068] FIG. 10 schematically illustrates an exemplary computing system 250 suitable for use in implementing the processing functions disclosed herein. Exemplary computing system 250 includes a processing unit 254 that is functionally coupled to an input device 252 and to an output device 262, e.g., a display (which can be used to output a result to a user, although such a result can also be stored). Processing unit 254 comprises, for example, a central processing unit (CPU) 258 that executes machine instructions for carrying out an analysis of GPS data (and in some embodiments, of driver behavior data) collected from enrolled vehicles, to identify when a vehicle is approaching a zone for which a user has defined a zone based driver/vehicle definition. The machine instructions implement functions generally consistent with those described above. CPUs suitable for this purpose are available, for example, from Intel Corporation, AMD Corporation, Motorola Corporation, and other sources, as will be well known to those of ordinary skill in this art.

[0069] Also included in processing unit 254 are a random access memory (RAM) 256 and non-volatile memory 260, which can include read only memory (ROM) and may include some form of memory storage, such as a hard drive, optical disk (and drive), etc. These memory devices are bi-directionally coupled to CPU 258. Such storage devices are well known in the art. Machine instructions and data are temporarily loaded into RAM 256 from non-volatile memory 260. Also stored in the non-volatile memory are operating system software and ancillary software. While not separately shown, it will be understood that a generally conventional power supply will be included to provide electrical power at voltage and current levels appropriate to energize computing system 250.

[0070] Input device 252 can be any device or mechanism that facilitates user input into the operating environment, including, but not limited to, one or more of a mouse or other pointing device, a keyboard, a microphone, a modem, or other input device. In general, the input device will be used to initially configure computing system 250, to achieve the desired processing (i.e., to monitor vehicle position data to determine if a zone based behavior definition applies, or to enable a user to define a zone based behavior definition). Configuration of computing system 250 to achieve the desired processing includes the steps of loading appropriate processing software into non-volatile memory 260, and launching the processing application (e.g., loading the processing software into RAM 256 for execution by the CPU) so that the processing application is ready for use. In embodiments where computing system 250 is implemented in a vehicle, the computing system 250 can be configured to run autonomously, such that a user input device not regularly employed.

[0071] Output device 262 generally includes any device that produces output information, but will most typically comprise a monitor or computer display designed for human visual perception of output. Use of a conventional computer keyboard for input device 252 and a computer display for output device 262 should be considered as exemplary, rather than as limiting on the scope of this system. In embodiments where computing system 250 is implemented in a vehicle, the computing system 250 can be vehicle performance data (and position data when desired) collected in connection with operation of enrolled vehicles to configured to run autonomously, such that a user output device not regularly employed (for embodiments where no zone based driver behavior is enabled, but zone based vehicle behavior is enabled).

[0072] Data link 264 is configured to enable data to be input into computing system 250 for processing. Those of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that many types of data links can be implemented, including, but not limited to, universal serial bus (USB) ports, parallel ports, serial ports, inputs configured to couple with portable memory storage devices, FireWire ports, infrared data ports, wireless data communication such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth™, network connections via Ethernet ports, and other connections that employ the Internet.

[0073] Note that location data from the enrolled vehicles will be communicated wirelessly in at least some embodiments, to the remote computing system that analyzes the data to evaluate if the vehicle is approaching or at a location where a zone based behavior definition applies.

[0074] It should be understood that the terms “remote computer”, “computing device”, and “remote computing device” are intended to encompass a single computer as well as networked computers, including servers and clients, in private networks or as part of the Internet. The location data and driver compliance data (compliance with zone based driver behavior rules) received by the monitoring service from the vehicle can be stored by one element in such a network, retrieved for review by another element in the network, and analyzed by yet another element in the network. While implementation of the methods noted above have been discussed in terms of execution of machine instructions by a processor (i.e., the computing device implementing machine instructions to implement the specific functions noted above), the methods could also be implemented using a custom circuit (such as an application specific integrated circuit or ASIC).

[0075] Although the concepts disclosed herein have been described in connection with the preferred form of practicing them and modifications thereto, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that many other modifications can be made thereto within the scope of the claims that follow. Accordingly, it is not intended that the scope of these concepts in any way be limited by the above description, but instead be determined entirely by reference to the claims that follow.