CA2488030C - Apparatus and method for optimally recording geographical position data - Google Patents
Apparatus and method for optimally recording geographical position data Download PDFInfo
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- CA2488030C CA2488030C CA002488030A CA2488030A CA2488030C CA 2488030 C CA2488030 C CA 2488030C CA 002488030 A CA002488030 A CA 002488030A CA 2488030 A CA2488030 A CA 2488030A CA 2488030 C CA2488030 C CA 2488030C
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- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01C—MEASURING DISTANCES, LEVELS OR BEARINGS; SURVEYING; NAVIGATION; GYROSCOPIC INSTRUMENTS; PHOTOGRAMMETRY OR VIDEOGRAMMETRY
- G01C21/00—Navigation; Navigational instruments not provided for in groups G01C1/00 - G01C19/00
- G01C21/20—Instruments for performing navigational calculations
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S5/00—Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more direction or position line determinations; Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more distance determinations
- G01S5/0009—Transmission of position information to remote stations
- G01S5/0018—Transmission from mobile station to base station
- G01S5/0027—Transmission from mobile station to base station of actual mobile position, i.e. position determined on mobile
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S19/00—Satellite radio beacon positioning systems; Determining position, velocity or attitude using signals transmitted by such systems
- G01S19/01—Satellite radio beacon positioning systems transmitting time-stamped messages, e.g. GPS [Global Positioning System], GLONASS [Global Orbiting Navigation Satellite System] or GALILEO
- G01S19/13—Receivers
- G01S19/14—Receivers specially adapted for specific applications
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- Radar, Positioning & Navigation (AREA)
- Remote Sensing (AREA)
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Automation & Control Theory (AREA)
- Recording Measured Values (AREA)
- Traffic Control Systems (AREA)
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Abstract
The present invention relates to a method for optimally recording or transmitting positional data and events of an object, said apparatus including input means to continuously provide positional data to a microprocessor and a memory device to store selected positional data wherein the microprocessor is programmed to compares new positional data from said input means to previously recorded log of positional data and creates a new log if the new positional data differs from the previously recorded log in accordance with pre-determined parameters.
Description
TITLE: APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR OPTIMALLY RECORDING
GEOGRAPHICAL POSITION DATA
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to a method and apparatus for optimally recording or transmitting geographical position and events. In particular the present invention provides apparatus to determine position, time and speed of an object such as a vehicle and log data in accordance with changes in pre-determined parameters.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
Recording or transmitting the position (latitude, longitude and possibly altitude) and events that occur for an object is a useful exercise in many scenarios in business. There are many examples of systems that today record and or transmit positional data, but they all suffer from the same problems. They do not correctly choose the positions that are to be stored or transmitted, so as to maximize the level of useful detail on a map but at the same time minimize the number of actual positions used to do this. Many systems currently base their logging on an interval (eg. every 60 seconds) or a distance (eg. every 200m). When looking at this data on a map, very often these points don't show any new useful additional information or, which is worse they miss out a significant event like a turn or a big drop in speed.
The present invention is used to optimize exactly when these pieces of information are recorded or transmitted. This then minimizes the memory requirements if these points are stored, or it minimizes time or cost if the information is transmitted. In addition, the usefulness of the information is maximized by making sure that any significant events are caught, like turning a corner or a large change in speed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the invention to provide a method to optimize exactly when positional data is recorded or transmitted to minimize the memory requirements if the data is stored, or minimize time or cost if the data is transmitted.
It is a further object of the invention to provide a method to optimize exactly when positional data is recorded or transmitted to ensure that any significant events are captured, like a change in direction arising from turning a corner or a large change in speed.
It is a further object of the invention to provide apparatus to determine positional data associated with an object, compare new positional data with existing data to determine when positional data is recorded or transmitted.
Thus in accordance with the present invention there is provided apparatus for optimally recording or transmitting positional data and events of an object, said apparatus including input means to continuously provide positional data to a microprocessor and a memory device to store selected positional data wherein the microprocessor is programmed to compare new positional data from said input means to previously recorded log of positional data and creates a new log if the new positional data differs from the previously recorded log in accordance with pre-determined parameters.
In a preferred embodiment for use with a vehicle, the input means to continuously provide positional data includes a GPS antenna and GPS engine and the positional data provided to the microprocessor includes the exact time, position and speed of the vehicle.
No new information is recorded if the velocity vector of the vehicle has not changed. The velocity vector is determined by monitoring the speed and heading of the vehicle. If these do not change by more than a threshold then no logs are taken. In turn, if these elements change rapidly then the logs should be taken more frequently. Additional events that are of interest are also being monitored by other input means, then these could trigger a log even if there were no geographical reason to do so.
In another embodiment the present invention provides a system for optimally recording or transmitting positional data and events of an object, said system having a processing unit on the object, said processing unit including input means to continuously provide positional data to a microprocessor and a memory device to store selected positional data wherein the microprocessor is programmed to compares new positional data from said input means to previously recorded log of positional data and creates a new log if the new positional data differs from the previously recorded log in accordance with pre-determined parameters and a base station programmed with software to extract, display, process and analyze the recorded data.
A further aspect of the present invention provides a method for optimally recording or transmitting positional data and events of an object to optimize exactly when positional data is recorded or transmitted to minimize the memory requirements if the data is stored, or minimize time or cost if the data is transmitted and to ensure that any significant events are captured by continuously providing positional data to a microprocessor from input means, said microprocessor compares new positional data from said input means to previously recorded log of positional data and creates a new log if the new positional data differs from the previously recorded log in accordance with pre-determined parameters.
Further features of the invention will be described or will become apparent in the course of the following detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In order that the invention may be more clearly understood, the preferred embodiment thereof will now be described in detail by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of a positional chart of a prior art system that logs at positional data for an object at regular time or distance intervals (prior art).
Figure 2 is a schematic illustration of one embodiment of -apparatus according to the present invention for optimally recording or transmitting geographical position and events.
Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of a positional chart using the apparatus of Figure 2 where the positional data for an object has been optimally recorded. .... Ll~
GEOGRAPHICAL POSITION DATA
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to a method and apparatus for optimally recording or transmitting geographical position and events. In particular the present invention provides apparatus to determine position, time and speed of an object such as a vehicle and log data in accordance with changes in pre-determined parameters.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART
Recording or transmitting the position (latitude, longitude and possibly altitude) and events that occur for an object is a useful exercise in many scenarios in business. There are many examples of systems that today record and or transmit positional data, but they all suffer from the same problems. They do not correctly choose the positions that are to be stored or transmitted, so as to maximize the level of useful detail on a map but at the same time minimize the number of actual positions used to do this. Many systems currently base their logging on an interval (eg. every 60 seconds) or a distance (eg. every 200m). When looking at this data on a map, very often these points don't show any new useful additional information or, which is worse they miss out a significant event like a turn or a big drop in speed.
The present invention is used to optimize exactly when these pieces of information are recorded or transmitted. This then minimizes the memory requirements if these points are stored, or it minimizes time or cost if the information is transmitted. In addition, the usefulness of the information is maximized by making sure that any significant events are caught, like turning a corner or a large change in speed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
It is an object of the invention to provide a method to optimize exactly when positional data is recorded or transmitted to minimize the memory requirements if the data is stored, or minimize time or cost if the data is transmitted.
It is a further object of the invention to provide a method to optimize exactly when positional data is recorded or transmitted to ensure that any significant events are captured, like a change in direction arising from turning a corner or a large change in speed.
It is a further object of the invention to provide apparatus to determine positional data associated with an object, compare new positional data with existing data to determine when positional data is recorded or transmitted.
Thus in accordance with the present invention there is provided apparatus for optimally recording or transmitting positional data and events of an object, said apparatus including input means to continuously provide positional data to a microprocessor and a memory device to store selected positional data wherein the microprocessor is programmed to compare new positional data from said input means to previously recorded log of positional data and creates a new log if the new positional data differs from the previously recorded log in accordance with pre-determined parameters.
In a preferred embodiment for use with a vehicle, the input means to continuously provide positional data includes a GPS antenna and GPS engine and the positional data provided to the microprocessor includes the exact time, position and speed of the vehicle.
No new information is recorded if the velocity vector of the vehicle has not changed. The velocity vector is determined by monitoring the speed and heading of the vehicle. If these do not change by more than a threshold then no logs are taken. In turn, if these elements change rapidly then the logs should be taken more frequently. Additional events that are of interest are also being monitored by other input means, then these could trigger a log even if there were no geographical reason to do so.
In another embodiment the present invention provides a system for optimally recording or transmitting positional data and events of an object, said system having a processing unit on the object, said processing unit including input means to continuously provide positional data to a microprocessor and a memory device to store selected positional data wherein the microprocessor is programmed to compares new positional data from said input means to previously recorded log of positional data and creates a new log if the new positional data differs from the previously recorded log in accordance with pre-determined parameters and a base station programmed with software to extract, display, process and analyze the recorded data.
A further aspect of the present invention provides a method for optimally recording or transmitting positional data and events of an object to optimize exactly when positional data is recorded or transmitted to minimize the memory requirements if the data is stored, or minimize time or cost if the data is transmitted and to ensure that any significant events are captured by continuously providing positional data to a microprocessor from input means, said microprocessor compares new positional data from said input means to previously recorded log of positional data and creates a new log if the new positional data differs from the previously recorded log in accordance with pre-determined parameters.
Further features of the invention will be described or will become apparent in the course of the following detailed description.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
In order that the invention may be more clearly understood, the preferred embodiment thereof will now be described in detail by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of a positional chart of a prior art system that logs at positional data for an object at regular time or distance intervals (prior art).
Figure 2 is a schematic illustration of one embodiment of -apparatus according to the present invention for optimally recording or transmitting geographical position and events.
Figure 3 is a schematic illustration of a positional chart using the apparatus of Figure 2 where the positional data for an object has been optimally recorded. .... Ll~
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
Referring to Figure 1 a schematic illustration of a positional chart of a prior art system that logs at positional data for an object at regular time or distance intervals is shown. The actual trip for the object is designated by line 1. The system logs positional data at regular intervals 3,4,5 from starting point 2 to end point 6.
Connecting points 2-6, as shown by line 7, shows the apparent route of the object. The apparent route 7 does not accurately reflect the actual trip 1.
One embodiment of apparatus for optimally recording or transmitting positional data and events of an object, preferably a vehicle, according to the present invention is generally indicated at 10. The apparatus 10 consists of input means 11 to continuously provide positional data to a microprocessor 12 and memory device 13 to store selected positional data. The input means 11 to continuously provide positional data preferably includes a GPS antenna 14 and conventional GPS engine 15. The GPS
engine 15 delivers the positional data preferably the exact time, position and speed of the object, to microprocessor 12. Microprocessor 12 compares the new positional data to the previously recorded log of positional data to determine the time that has elapsed since that previous log, the change in speed and heading or other input triggers and creates a new log if the information is deemed to be "new and interesting" in accordance with pre-determined parameters. The pre-determined parameters preferably include harsh braking, excessive speed, change in heading at high speed, change in heading at low speed, change in speed, and time since last log. If the differences in positional data are greater than a pre-determined minimum, microprocessor 12 stores the positional data on memory device 13 for subsequent download or transmittal. If the differences in positional data are not greater than the pre-determined minimum, microprocessor 12 does not store the new positional data on memory device 13 thereby optimizing exactly when positional data is recorded to minimize the memory requirements if the data is stored, to minimize the time or cost when the data is transmitted and/or to ensure that any significant events are captured, like a change in direction arising from turning a corner or a large change in speed.
Figure 3 illustrates a schematic of a positional chart using the embodiment of apparatus for optimally recording or transmitting positional data and events of an object I where the positional data for the object has been optimally recorded.
In this case the actual trip for the object is designated by line 20. The system logs positional data at starting point 21, at point 22 where a change in speed is determined, point 23 where a change of direction is determined and end point 24. Connecting points 21-24, as shown by line 25, shows the apparent route of the object which reflects more accurately the actual trip 20 than the prior art system illustrated in FIG. 1 even though positional data is logged at fewer points.
In Figure 2 of the drawings, Microprocessor 12, in an embodiment, is programmed to compare and select position data to be recorded as follows:
// check valid GPS data against logging criteria void ValidGPS(void) {
unsigned long 1Temp;
unsigned char bDiff;
blnvalidCount = 0; /I reset invalid count GPS.GPSData.bAux.gps_valid = 1; // valid flag GPS.GPSData.bRecordType = GPS_RECORD;// log record type // store valid vars IValidDate = GPS.GPSData.IDateTime;
lValidLat.full = GPS.GPSData.lLat.full;
1ValidLong.full = GPS.GPSData.lLong.full;
// accident data check if (GPS.GPSData.bSpeed > bMinAccSpeed) bMemFlags.save_acc = 1;
if (bFlags3.valid_gps_restart) {
if (bHarshBrake != 0) {
if (bValidSpeed > GPS.GPSData.bSpeed) {
bDiff = bValidSpeed - GPS.GPSData.bSpeed;
if (bDiffl bHarshBrake) {
GPS.GPSData.bLogReason =
LOG_HARSH_BRAKE; // speeding start bMemFlags.save_log = 1 }
Referring to Figure 1 a schematic illustration of a positional chart of a prior art system that logs at positional data for an object at regular time or distance intervals is shown. The actual trip for the object is designated by line 1. The system logs positional data at regular intervals 3,4,5 from starting point 2 to end point 6.
Connecting points 2-6, as shown by line 7, shows the apparent route of the object. The apparent route 7 does not accurately reflect the actual trip 1.
One embodiment of apparatus for optimally recording or transmitting positional data and events of an object, preferably a vehicle, according to the present invention is generally indicated at 10. The apparatus 10 consists of input means 11 to continuously provide positional data to a microprocessor 12 and memory device 13 to store selected positional data. The input means 11 to continuously provide positional data preferably includes a GPS antenna 14 and conventional GPS engine 15. The GPS
engine 15 delivers the positional data preferably the exact time, position and speed of the object, to microprocessor 12. Microprocessor 12 compares the new positional data to the previously recorded log of positional data to determine the time that has elapsed since that previous log, the change in speed and heading or other input triggers and creates a new log if the information is deemed to be "new and interesting" in accordance with pre-determined parameters. The pre-determined parameters preferably include harsh braking, excessive speed, change in heading at high speed, change in heading at low speed, change in speed, and time since last log. If the differences in positional data are greater than a pre-determined minimum, microprocessor 12 stores the positional data on memory device 13 for subsequent download or transmittal. If the differences in positional data are not greater than the pre-determined minimum, microprocessor 12 does not store the new positional data on memory device 13 thereby optimizing exactly when positional data is recorded to minimize the memory requirements if the data is stored, to minimize the time or cost when the data is transmitted and/or to ensure that any significant events are captured, like a change in direction arising from turning a corner or a large change in speed.
Figure 3 illustrates a schematic of a positional chart using the embodiment of apparatus for optimally recording or transmitting positional data and events of an object I where the positional data for the object has been optimally recorded.
In this case the actual trip for the object is designated by line 20. The system logs positional data at starting point 21, at point 22 where a change in speed is determined, point 23 where a change of direction is determined and end point 24. Connecting points 21-24, as shown by line 25, shows the apparent route of the object which reflects more accurately the actual trip 20 than the prior art system illustrated in FIG. 1 even though positional data is logged at fewer points.
In Figure 2 of the drawings, Microprocessor 12, in an embodiment, is programmed to compare and select position data to be recorded as follows:
// check valid GPS data against logging criteria void ValidGPS(void) {
unsigned long 1Temp;
unsigned char bDiff;
blnvalidCount = 0; /I reset invalid count GPS.GPSData.bAux.gps_valid = 1; // valid flag GPS.GPSData.bRecordType = GPS_RECORD;// log record type // store valid vars IValidDate = GPS.GPSData.IDateTime;
lValidLat.full = GPS.GPSData.lLat.full;
1ValidLong.full = GPS.GPSData.lLong.full;
// accident data check if (GPS.GPSData.bSpeed > bMinAccSpeed) bMemFlags.save_acc = 1;
if (bFlags3.valid_gps_restart) {
if (bHarshBrake != 0) {
if (bValidSpeed > GPS.GPSData.bSpeed) {
bDiff = bValidSpeed - GPS.GPSData.bSpeed;
if (bDiffl bHarshBrake) {
GPS.GPSData.bLogReason =
LOG_HARSH_BRAKE; // speeding start bMemFlags.save_log = 1 }
f }
}
bValidSpeed = GPS.GPSData.bSpeed;
bFlags3.valid_gps_restart = 1;
check log next valid flag - set on ign if (bFlags3.log_next_valid) {
if (bOptions0.beep_on_log 11 bFlags3.debug) {
BUZZERON;
Delay 1 OKTCYx(250);
Delay l OKTCYx(250);
}
bFlags3.log_next_valid = 0;
GPS.GPSData.bLogReason = LOG_NEXT; // log first valid after ign bMemFlags.save_log = 1;
return;
}
if harsh braking occurred above then exit if (bMemFlags.save_log) return;
if (bOptions0.speeding) {
// if not speeding if (!bFlags2.speeding) {
// and speeding occurs if (GPS.GPSData.bSpeed > bSpeedingSpeed) {
// start indicator and log bFlags2.speeding = 1;
GPS.GPSData.bLogReason =
LOG_SPEEDING_START; // speeding start bMemFlags.save_log = 1;
return;
}
}
}
bValidSpeed = GPS.GPSData.bSpeed;
bFlags3.valid_gps_restart = 1;
check log next valid flag - set on ign if (bFlags3.log_next_valid) {
if (bOptions0.beep_on_log 11 bFlags3.debug) {
BUZZERON;
Delay 1 OKTCYx(250);
Delay l OKTCYx(250);
}
bFlags3.log_next_valid = 0;
GPS.GPSData.bLogReason = LOG_NEXT; // log first valid after ign bMemFlags.save_log = 1;
return;
}
if harsh braking occurred above then exit if (bMemFlags.save_log) return;
if (bOptions0.speeding) {
// if not speeding if (!bFlags2.speeding) {
// and speeding occurs if (GPS.GPSData.bSpeed > bSpeedingSpeed) {
// start indicator and log bFlags2.speeding = 1;
GPS.GPSData.bLogReason =
LOG_SPEEDING_START; // speeding start bMemFlags.save_log = 1;
return;
}
}
else if speeding else {
and get to reset speed if (GPS.GPSData.bSpeed <= bResetSpeed) {
BUZZER OFF; // just in case // stop indicator and log bFlags2.speeding = 0;
GPS.GPSData.bLogReason =
LOG_SPEEDING_STOP; // speeding stopped bMemFlags.save_log = 1;
return;
}
}
}
// change in heading at hi speed if (GPS.GPSData.bSpeed > bHiDeltaHeadMinSpeed) {
if ((GPS.GPSData.bHeading < 37) && (bLastHeading > 113)) {
bDiff = GPS.GPSData.bHeading + (150 - bLastHeading);
}
else if ((bLastHeading < 37) && (GPS.GPSData.bHeading > 113)) {
bDiff = bLastHeading + (150 - GPS.GPSData.bHeading);
}
else if (GPS.GPSData.bHeading > bLastHeading) {
bDiff = GPS.GPSData.bHeading - bLastHeading;
}
else {
bDiff = bLastHeading - GPS.GPSData.bHeading;
}
if (bDiff > bHiDeltaHead) {
GPS.GPSData.bLogReason = LOG_HEADING;
change in heading bMemFlags.save_log = 1;
return;
}
and get to reset speed if (GPS.GPSData.bSpeed <= bResetSpeed) {
BUZZER OFF; // just in case // stop indicator and log bFlags2.speeding = 0;
GPS.GPSData.bLogReason =
LOG_SPEEDING_STOP; // speeding stopped bMemFlags.save_log = 1;
return;
}
}
}
// change in heading at hi speed if (GPS.GPSData.bSpeed > bHiDeltaHeadMinSpeed) {
if ((GPS.GPSData.bHeading < 37) && (bLastHeading > 113)) {
bDiff = GPS.GPSData.bHeading + (150 - bLastHeading);
}
else if ((bLastHeading < 37) && (GPS.GPSData.bHeading > 113)) {
bDiff = bLastHeading + (150 - GPS.GPSData.bHeading);
}
else if (GPS.GPSData.bHeading > bLastHeading) {
bDiff = GPS.GPSData.bHeading - bLastHeading;
}
else {
bDiff = bLastHeading - GPS.GPSData.bHeading;
}
if (bDiff > bHiDeltaHead) {
GPS.GPSData.bLogReason = LOG_HEADING;
change in heading bMemFlags.save_log = 1;
return;
}
}
change in heading at low speed else if (GPS.GPSData.bSpeed > bDeltaHeadingMinSpeed) {
if ((GPS.GPSData.bHeading < 37) && (bLastHeading > 113)) {
bDiff = GPS.GPSData.bHeading + (150 - bLastHeading);
}
else if ((bLastHeading < 37) && (GPS.GPSData.bHeading > 113)) {
bDiff = bLastHeading + (150 - GPS.GPSData.bHeading);
}
else if (GPS.GPSData.bHeading > bLastHeading) {
bDiff = GPS.GPSData.bHeading - bLastHeading;
}
else {
bDiff = bLastHeading - GPS.GPSData.bHeading;
}
if (bDiff > bDeltaHeading) {
GPS.GPSData.bLogReason = LOG_HEADING;
change in heading bMenzFlags.save_log = 1;
return;
}
}
// change in speed if (GPS.GPSData.bSpeed > bDeltaSpeedMinSpeed) {
if (GPS.GPSData.bSpeed > bLastSpeed) bDiff=GPS.GPSData.bSpeed - bLastSpeed;
else bDiff=bLastSpeed - GPS.GPSData.bSpeed;
if (bDiff > bDeltaSpeed) {
GPS.GPSData.bLogReason =LOG_SPEED; // change in speed bMemFlags.save_log = 1;
change in heading at low speed else if (GPS.GPSData.bSpeed > bDeltaHeadingMinSpeed) {
if ((GPS.GPSData.bHeading < 37) && (bLastHeading > 113)) {
bDiff = GPS.GPSData.bHeading + (150 - bLastHeading);
}
else if ((bLastHeading < 37) && (GPS.GPSData.bHeading > 113)) {
bDiff = bLastHeading + (150 - GPS.GPSData.bHeading);
}
else if (GPS.GPSData.bHeading > bLastHeading) {
bDiff = GPS.GPSData.bHeading - bLastHeading;
}
else {
bDiff = bLastHeading - GPS.GPSData.bHeading;
}
if (bDiff > bDeltaHeading) {
GPS.GPSData.bLogReason = LOG_HEADING;
change in heading bMenzFlags.save_log = 1;
return;
}
}
// change in speed if (GPS.GPSData.bSpeed > bDeltaSpeedMinSpeed) {
if (GPS.GPSData.bSpeed > bLastSpeed) bDiff=GPS.GPSData.bSpeed - bLastSpeed;
else bDiff=bLastSpeed - GPS.GPSData.bSpeed;
if (bDiff > bDeltaSpeed) {
GPS.GPSData.bLogReason =LOG_SPEED; // change in speed bMemFlags.save_log = 1;
return;
}
}
time since last log if (GPS.GPSData.lDateTime - ILastDate > iMinLogTime.full) {
GPS.GPSData.bLogReason = LOG_TIME; time elapsed bMemFlags.save_log = 1;
return;
}
if (bOptions0.log_valid) {
GPS.GPSData.bLogReason = LOG_ALL; // log all valid option set bMemFlags.save_log = 1;
return;
In an embodiment the microprocessor 12, GPS engine 15 and optionally the memory device 13 to store selected positional data are provided in an in-vehicle processing unit which is in a sealed housing. In lieu of the memory device 13 being included in the vehicle processing unit, a separate portable memory device (such as memory stick, disc or key can be provided). Appropriate wiring harness would be provided to easily connect the in-vehicle processing unit containing the microprocessor 12, and GPS engine 15 to the vehicle electrics, GPS antenna 14 and other inputs or outputs including memory device 13.
In another embodiment, the present invention provides a system which includes a base station piece programmed with software to extract, display, process and analyze the recorded vehicle data. Where a portable memory device 13 is used in conjunction with the in-vehicle processing unit, data maybe "extracted" from the portable memory device or directly from the vehicle via a wireless connection such as 900MHz radio or through a GSM/GPRS/Internet communication medium or other like method and transmitted to the base station.
The additional inputs can include an identification key to identify individual drivers or vehicles or permit updating or modification of the software in the microprocessor unit 12 to set parameters on which the system is customized to compare and log data.
The base station and its software can be used as noted above to view trip data on a map, produce activity reports including list of trips, speed profile, auxiliary usage and the like. In addition the software can be customized to set rules for determining when a log point should be recorded by monitoring data such as speed, stop time, auxiliary useage or vehicle position relative to prescribed zones such as customer locations.
Having illustrated and described a preferred embodiment of the invention and certain possible modifications thereto, it should be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that the invention permits of further modification in arrangement and detail. All such modifications are covered by the scope of the invention.
}
}
time since last log if (GPS.GPSData.lDateTime - ILastDate > iMinLogTime.full) {
GPS.GPSData.bLogReason = LOG_TIME; time elapsed bMemFlags.save_log = 1;
return;
}
if (bOptions0.log_valid) {
GPS.GPSData.bLogReason = LOG_ALL; // log all valid option set bMemFlags.save_log = 1;
return;
In an embodiment the microprocessor 12, GPS engine 15 and optionally the memory device 13 to store selected positional data are provided in an in-vehicle processing unit which is in a sealed housing. In lieu of the memory device 13 being included in the vehicle processing unit, a separate portable memory device (such as memory stick, disc or key can be provided). Appropriate wiring harness would be provided to easily connect the in-vehicle processing unit containing the microprocessor 12, and GPS engine 15 to the vehicle electrics, GPS antenna 14 and other inputs or outputs including memory device 13.
In another embodiment, the present invention provides a system which includes a base station piece programmed with software to extract, display, process and analyze the recorded vehicle data. Where a portable memory device 13 is used in conjunction with the in-vehicle processing unit, data maybe "extracted" from the portable memory device or directly from the vehicle via a wireless connection such as 900MHz radio or through a GSM/GPRS/Internet communication medium or other like method and transmitted to the base station.
The additional inputs can include an identification key to identify individual drivers or vehicles or permit updating or modification of the software in the microprocessor unit 12 to set parameters on which the system is customized to compare and log data.
The base station and its software can be used as noted above to view trip data on a map, produce activity reports including list of trips, speed profile, auxiliary usage and the like. In addition the software can be customized to set rules for determining when a log point should be recorded by monitoring data such as speed, stop time, auxiliary useage or vehicle position relative to prescribed zones such as customer locations.
Having illustrated and described a preferred embodiment of the invention and certain possible modifications thereto, it should be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that the invention permits of further modification in arrangement and detail. All such modifications are covered by the scope of the invention.
Claims (8)
1. Method for recording or transmitting positional data and movement of an object, said method comprising:
attaching on or in said object, apparatus for recording or transmitting positional data and movement of the object, said apparatus including input means to continuously provide positional data to a microprocessor and a memory device to store selected positional data, wherein:
said input means continuously receives new and exact time and positional data of said object, said new and exact time and positional data of said object is then submitted to said microprocessor, new speed and velocity are calculated from said new and exact time and position of said object at said microprocessor or said input means, said microprocessor compares said new speed and velocity of said object from said input means to a previously recorded log of speed and velocity, and said microprocessor creates a new log of speed and velocity if said new speed and velocity differs from said previously recorded log in accordance with predetermined parameters.
attaching on or in said object, apparatus for recording or transmitting positional data and movement of the object, said apparatus including input means to continuously provide positional data to a microprocessor and a memory device to store selected positional data, wherein:
said input means continuously receives new and exact time and positional data of said object, said new and exact time and positional data of said object is then submitted to said microprocessor, new speed and velocity are calculated from said new and exact time and position of said object at said microprocessor or said input means, said microprocessor compares said new speed and velocity of said object from said input means to a previously recorded log of speed and velocity, and said microprocessor creates a new log of speed and velocity if said new speed and velocity differs from said previously recorded log in accordance with predetermined parameters.
2. A method according to claim 1, wherein said input means includes a GPS antenna and GPS engine, and said GPS antenna receives said exact time and position and continually transmits said time and position to said GPS
engine, and, said GPS engine transfers said exact time and position to said microprocessor.
engine, and, said GPS engine transfers said exact time and position to said microprocessor.
3. A method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein said predetermined parameters are selected to identify an event from the group consisting of harsh braking, excessive speed, change in heading at high speed, change in heading at low speed, change in speed, and time since last log.
4. Method for recording or transmitting positional data and movement of an object said method comprising:
attaching on or in said object, apparatus for recording or transmitting positional data and movement of the object, said apparatus including input means to continuously provide positional data to a microprocessor and a memory device to store selected positional data, wherein:
a base station programmed with software to extract, display, process and analyze said positional data is provided remote from said object, said input means continuously receives new and exact time and position of said object, said new and exact time and position of said object is then submitted to said microprocessor, new speed and velocity are calculated from said new and exact time and position of said object at said microprocessor or said input means, said microprocessor compares said new speed and velocity of said object from said input means to a previously recorded log of speed and velocity, said microprocessor creates a new log of speed and velocity if said new speed and velocity differs from said previously recorded log in accordance with predetermined parameters, and said log of speed and velocity is transmitted from said apparatus to said base station where said software extracts, displays, processes and analyses said log of speed and velocity.
attaching on or in said object, apparatus for recording or transmitting positional data and movement of the object, said apparatus including input means to continuously provide positional data to a microprocessor and a memory device to store selected positional data, wherein:
a base station programmed with software to extract, display, process and analyze said positional data is provided remote from said object, said input means continuously receives new and exact time and position of said object, said new and exact time and position of said object is then submitted to said microprocessor, new speed and velocity are calculated from said new and exact time and position of said object at said microprocessor or said input means, said microprocessor compares said new speed and velocity of said object from said input means to a previously recorded log of speed and velocity, said microprocessor creates a new log of speed and velocity if said new speed and velocity differs from said previously recorded log in accordance with predetermined parameters, and said log of speed and velocity is transmitted from said apparatus to said base station where said software extracts, displays, processes and analyses said log of speed and velocity.
5. A method according to claim 4, wherein said new log of speed and velocity is transmitted from said apparatus to said base station by extracting said new log of speed and velocity from said memory device by downloading said new log of speed and velocity from said memory device or directly from said apparatus via a wireless connection to said base station.
6. A method according to claim 5, wherein said memory device is portable.
7. A method according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein said input means includes a GPS antenna and GPS engine, and said GPS antenna receives said exact time and position and continually transmits said time and position to said GPS
engine, and, said GPS engine transfers said exact time and position to said microprocessor.
engine, and, said GPS engine transfers said exact time and position to said microprocessor.
8. A method according to any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein said predetermined parameters are selected to identify an event from the group consisting of harsh braking, excessive speed, change in heading at high speed, change in heading at low speed, change in speed, and time since last log.
Priority Applications (5)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002488030A CA2488030C (en) | 2004-12-07 | 2004-12-07 | Apparatus and method for optimally recording geographical position data |
| US11/252,747 US8032276B2 (en) | 2004-12-07 | 2005-10-19 | Apparatus and method for optimally recording geographical position data |
| US13/241,202 US8670928B2 (en) | 2004-12-07 | 2011-09-22 | Apparatus and method for optimally recording geographical position data |
| US14/174,447 US20150012211A1 (en) | 2004-12-07 | 2014-02-06 | Apparatus and method for optimally recording geographical position data |
| US14/968,322 US20160102982A1 (en) | 2004-12-07 | 2015-12-14 | Apparatus and method for optimally recording geographical position data |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002488030A CA2488030C (en) | 2004-12-07 | 2004-12-07 | Apparatus and method for optimally recording geographical position data |
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| CA2488030A1 CA2488030A1 (en) | 2005-12-28 |
| CA2488030C true CA2488030C (en) | 2007-08-21 |
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| CA002488030A Active CA2488030C (en) | 2004-12-07 | 2004-12-07 | Apparatus and method for optimally recording geographical position data |
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