WO2001032480A1 - A mobile object monitoring system - Google Patents

A mobile object monitoring system Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2001032480A1
WO2001032480A1 PCT/IB2000/001597 IB0001597W WO0132480A1 WO 2001032480 A1 WO2001032480 A1 WO 2001032480A1 IB 0001597 W IB0001597 W IB 0001597W WO 0132480 A1 WO0132480 A1 WO 0132480A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
mobile object
stations
array
signpost
signals
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/IB2000/001597
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Conrad Mortimer Brownlee-Walker
Barend Stephanus Groenewald
Original Assignee
Netstar (Proprietary) Limited
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority to AU12920/01A priority Critical patent/AU1292001A/en
Application filed by Netstar (Proprietary) Limited filed Critical Netstar (Proprietary) Limited
Publication of WO2001032480A1 publication Critical patent/WO2001032480A1/en

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Classifications

    • GPHYSICS
    • G08SIGNALLING
    • G08GTRAFFIC CONTROL SYSTEMS
    • G08G1/00Traffic control systems for road vehicles
    • G08G1/20Monitoring the location of vehicles belonging to a group, e.g. fleet of vehicles, countable or determined number of vehicles
    • G08G1/205Indicating the location of the monitored vehicles as destination, e.g. accidents, stolen, rental
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60RVEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R25/00Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles
    • B60R25/01Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles operating on vehicle systems or fittings, e.g. on doors, seats or windscreens
    • B60R25/04Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles operating on vehicle systems or fittings, e.g. on doors, seats or windscreens operating on the propulsion system, e.g. engine or drive motor
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60RVEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R25/00Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles
    • B60R25/10Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles actuating a signalling device
    • B60R25/102Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles actuating a signalling device a signal being sent to a remote location, e.g. a radio signal being transmitted to a police station, a security company or the owner
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60RVEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R25/00Fittings or systems for preventing or indicating unauthorised use or theft of vehicles
    • B60R25/30Detection related to theft or to other events relevant to anti-theft systems
    • B60R25/33Detection related to theft or to other events relevant to anti-theft systems of global position, e.g. by providing GPS coordinates
    • GPHYSICS
    • G01MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01SRADIO 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
    • G01S5/00Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more direction or position line determinations; Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more distance determinations
    • G01S5/0009Transmission of position information to remote stations
    • G01S5/0018Transmission from mobile station to base station
    • G01S5/0027Transmission from mobile station to base station of actual mobile position, i.e. position determined on mobile
    • BPERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60RVEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • B60R2325/00Indexing scheme relating to vehicle anti-theft devices
    • B60R2325/20Communication devices for vehicle anti-theft devices
    • B60R2325/205Mobile phones
    • B60W2550/402
    • GPHYSICS
    • G01MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01SRADIO 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
    • G01S19/00Satellite radio beacon positioning systems; Determining position, velocity or attitude using signals transmitted by such systems
    • G01S19/01Satellite radio beacon positioning systems transmitting time-stamped messages, e.g. GPS [Global Positioning System], GLONASS [Global Orbiting Navigation Satellite System] or GALILEO
    • G01S19/13Receivers
    • G01S19/14Receivers specially adapted for specific applications
    • G01S19/17Emergency applications
    • GPHYSICS
    • G01MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01SRADIO 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
    • G01S2205/00Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more direction or position line determinations; Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more distance determinations
    • G01S2205/001Transmission of position information to remote stations
    • G01S2205/002Transmission of position information to remote stations for traffic control, mobile tracking, guidance, surveillance or anti-collision
    • GPHYSICS
    • G01MEASURING; TESTING
    • G01SRADIO 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
    • G01S2205/00Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more direction or position line determinations; Position-fixing by co-ordinating two or more distance determinations
    • G01S2205/001Transmission of position information to remote stations
    • G01S2205/008Transmission of position information to remote stations using a mobile telephone network

Definitions

  • THIS invention relates to a mobile object monitoring system for monitoring mobile objects such as vehicles and their associated freight
  • South African patent 94/4150 discloses a dedicated vehicle tracking system including an array of signpost stations distributed strategically around an area to be monitored A vehicle-based receiver receives a signpost identification signal in the event of the vehicle being within the signpost footprint, and a vehicle-based beacon transmitter transmits a vehicle identification signal and a vehicle location signal derived from the signpost identification signal to a central control station for identifying the vehicle and determining its approximate position
  • a tracking unit arranged to be fitted to a mobile object, the unit comprising
  • transceiver means for receiving mobile object locating signals from and transmitting mobile object identification signals to a first array of stations in a broad area network defining a broad area of coverage
  • receiver means for receiving mobile object locating signals from a second array of stations in a restricted area network defining a restricted area of coverage falling within the first broad area of coverage
  • transmitter means for transmitting mobile object location and identification signals to a central control station for identifying the mobile object and determining its approximate location
  • the broad area network is a non-dedicated network and the restricted area network is a dedicated network
  • the first array of stations is an array of GSM sites defining a GSM-based network
  • the transceiver means is a GSM transceiver arranged to receive mobile object locating GSM signals from at least one of the GSM sites and to transmit GSM signals to at least one of the GSM sites
  • the second array of stations includes a strategically located array of signpost stations, the receiver means being arranged to receive signpost identification signals from the signpost stations for locating the mobile object
  • the tracking unit includes a pager receiver for receiving pager signals from a pager network forming part of the restricted area network
  • the tracking unit is linked to a message management system for allowing messages to be sent between the central control station and the tracking unit via the first array of stations in the broad area network
  • the message management system includes a data logger for storing the mobile object locating signals from the first and second array of stations
  • the tracking unit includes a GPS receiver
  • the tracking unit includes a plurality of sensors for sensing unauthorized entry into or operation of the mobile object, the transmitter and transceiver means being responsive to the sensors
  • the tracking unit includes at least one manually arming and activating input for enabling the transmitter and transceiver means to transmit emergency condition signals or codes
  • the tracking unit includes mobile object immobilizing and/or alarm outputs responsive to the sensors or manually activating inputs
  • a mobile object tracking system including
  • a first array of stations in a broad area network defining a broad area of coverage
  • a second array of stations in a restricted area network defining a restricted area of coverage within the broad area of coverage
  • a mobile object tracking unit associated with a mobile object, the unit comprising transceiver means for receiving locating signals from and transmitting identification signals to the first array of stations, receiver means for receiving locating signals from the second array of stations, and transmitter means for transmitting location and identification signals to the central control station for identifying the mobile object and determining its approximate location
  • the first array of stations is an array of GSM sites defining a GSM-based network, the GSM network including a GSM exchange linked to the central control station for relaying mobile object identification and location signals thereto
  • the second array of stations includes a strategically located array of signpost stations, each signpost station including a signpost transmitter arranged to transmit a signpost identification signal to the receiver means in the event of the mobile object traversing a signpost footprint defined by the signpost station
  • the second array of signpost stations includes "border” signpost stations located at the periphery of the restricted area of coverage, the "border” signpost stations being arranged to transmit a signal indicating to the tracking unit that it is leaving or entering the restricted area of coverage
  • the mobile object tracking system includes a pager network forming part of the restricted area network, the tracking unit including a pager receiver
  • the mobile object tracking system includes a message management system for allowing messages to be sent between the central control station and the tracking unit via the first array of stations in the broad area network
  • the message management system includes a data logger for storing the mobile object locating signals from the first and second array of stations
  • Figure 1 shows a highly schematic diagram of a vehicle-based beacon unit according to a first embodiment of the invention
  • FIG. 2 shows a detailed block diagram of a beacon unit according to a second embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 3 shows a diagrammatic layout of a dual network vehicle monitoring system of the invention
  • Figure 4 shows a block diagram of a communications network according to a third embodiment of the invention
  • Figure 5 shows a block diagram of a message management system of the communications network shown in Figure 4
  • Figure 6 shows a flow chart of an application layer of the message management system shown in Figure 5
  • a vehicle-based tracking or beacon unit 10 comprises a central processing unit 12 in the form of an integrated module provided with memory 14, and having a number of different inputs and outputs These include a GSM-based transmitter and receiver unit 16 arranged to transmit and receive signals in either the 900MHz or 1800MHz bands, a beacon transmitter 18, a signpost receiver 20 for receiving signals from a signpost station 21 , a pager receiver 22 and an optional GPS receiver 24
  • the beacon unit 10 is also provided with a number of activating inputs 26, with the signal on these inputs resulting in activation of the beacon unit
  • the activating inputs 26 are of a contact closure nature and will be programmable high or low These may include a hijack button, a door switch, a brake switch, an ignition switch, boot or bonnet switches, a movement sensor, a "hotwiring" sensor, an airbag sensor or any other intrusion or activation sensor which senses unauthorized entry into or operation of the vehicle
  • a number of arming inputs 28 are also provided, including a keyring activator 29 or a short range "call for assistance” activator for transmitting various emergency condition codes, including “hijack/police”, “breakdown”, “medical aid” and/or “accident” codes, as well as to transmit arm and disarm signals
  • the keyring activator provides a separate button for each emergency condition code, which assists in determining the nature of the emergency, as will be explained with reference to the message management system
  • the arming inputs 28 may be received by the existing signpost receiver 20 or alternatively by the pager receiver 22 Alternatively, the beacon unit 10 may be armed via the GSM-based unit 16 by means of a telephone call being made to the unit 16, the call being accompanied by the input of a security PIN code
  • Various alarm and immobilizing outputs 30 may also be provided for, respectively, operating a fuel cut-off solenoid 32 and a siren 34 and for flashing the vehicle lights 36 in response to an alarm condition arising
  • FIG. 2 shows a second preferred embodiment of a beacon unit 37, wherein similar components which have been described above with reference to Figure 1 have been indicated with similar reference numbers
  • the GSM and GPS modules 16 and 24 are combined in a single main module 38
  • the main module 38 includes four wired inputs from the activating inputs 26, four wired outputs leading to the immobilizing outputs 30 and two RS232 serial ports 40 and 42
  • a separate dedicated transceiver module 44 includes a 915MHz beacon transmitter 18 and a 403 9MHz receiver 46 for receiving signals from the keyring activator transmitter 29, together with a supporting central processing unit 48 and RAM 50
  • the dedicated module 44 is connected to the main module 38 by means of the serial port 40
  • the serial port 42 is used to connect optional modules to the main module 38, such as an on-board computer 41 A of the vehicle, a voice handset 41 B to allow cellular telephone calls to be made or a personal digital assistant 41 C for facilitating Internet and other digital communications
  • the serial port connections 40 and 42 may take the form of BLUETOOTH®
  • the vehicle-based beacon unit 37 will now be described with reference to the dual network illustrated in Figure 3
  • the unit 37 is fitted to a vehicle 76 which follows a route 78 through the network
  • the dual network comprises a GSM network in the form of a plurality of pre-existing GSM sites 80 which in combination define a broad area of coverage
  • An array of signpost stations 82 having respective footprints 84 form part of a dedicated network providing a restricted area of coverage 86 within the broad coverage area defined by the GSM network
  • the restricted area of coverage 86 typically covers a more densely populated urban area Border signpost stations 82 1 are arranged at strategic locations around the outer periphery of the restricted area 86
  • Also located within the restricted area 86 is a receiver network comprising a number of fixed receiver stations 90 which are more sparsely arranged than the signpost stations 82
  • the receiver stations 90 act as relay stations for relaying signals from the vehicle beacon unit 37 to a central control station 92
  • the control station 92 is linked directly to a central
  • the respective signpost and pager receivers 20 and 22 respectively listen actively for signals from the signpost beacons 82 and pager transmitters 86.
  • the signals from the signpost beacons 82 include signpost identification information, which is combined with the vehicle identification code.
  • a combined signal is transmitted to the central control station 92 from the transmitter 18 via one of the receivers 90 or relay stations, as is shown at 98.
  • the signpost receiver 20 receiving a specially designated signpost identification signal from a border signpost station 82.1 , this serves to indicate that the vehicle is leaving the restricted area of coverage 86.
  • the beacon unit 37 effectively switches from the dedicated network to the GSM network by activating the GSM transceiver unit 16.
  • a signal is transmitted to the central control station 92 via the border signpost station 82.1 indicating that the vehicle 76 is leaving the restricted area of coverage.
  • Subsequent communication is via the GSM network constituted by the GSM sites 80.
  • the GSM network is capable of providing positional accuracy in the region of 1 km, by monitoring which GSM sites are communicating with the transceiver 16.
  • the GPS receiver 24 is the only practical means by which 20m accuracy may consistently be achieved.
  • the beacon unit 37 will also switch over to the GSM network in the case where the signpost receiver 20 does not receive a signpost identification signal from a signpost station 82 within a fixed period of time, typically three minutes.
  • the tracking unit When the vehicle is outside the dedicated network but within GSM coverage, its tracking unit will periodically send a message to the central control station 92 from the GSM transceiver 16 via the GSM sites 80 and a conventional land ne network to confirm that the vehicle is secure As was mentioned above, the position of the vehicle is known approximately on the basis of the identification of the currently active GSM s ⁇ te(s) If the vehicle is stolen, this is sensed by one of the sensors 26, or via the signpost receiver 20 in conjunction with the signposts 82 Alternatively, activation takes place via one of the remote activators 28, which immediately results in a violation message being sent via the transceiver 16 to the central control station 92 Recovery is initiated by sending recovery forces with a mobile tracking unit such as a vehicle 93 1 or a helicopter 93 2 A stand-alone pager transmitter or alternatively the GSM network itself can be used to activate the transmitter 18 of the beacon unit 37, enabling the mobile tracking unit to home in on the vehicle
  • the vehicle When the vehicle enters the dedicated coverage area 86 at point A, it receives a signal from the border signpost station 82 1 via the signpost receiver 20, and automatically switches so that it is responsive to signals from the signpost stations 82 within the restricted area of coverage
  • the beacon transmitter 18 In the event of the vehicle 76 being stolen whilst it is within the dedicated network it may automatically be remotely activated by sending a pager message via the pager receiver 22 In the activated state, the beacon transmitter 18 continuously transmits emergency messages to the receivers 90, which are then relayed to the central control station 92 As is described in South African patent 94/4150, whenever the vehicle passes a signpost beacon 82 the identity of the beacon is attached to the transmitted message, and the control room 92 can thus determine the location and direction of the travel as at least the last and previous signpost beacon identifications are always transmitted Recovery forces can then be dispatched with a suitable homing receiver, after which the vehicle may be recovered In the event of the vehicle exiting the dedicated network 86 at point B, this is signaled by the border signpost station 82 1 In addition, loss of a signal on the constantly monitored pager channel via the pager receiver 22 is also indicative of the vehicle leaving the dedicated coverage area The beacon unit 37 will switch back to GSM mode in which it can continue sending messages to the control room via the
  • the dual mode vehicle monitoring system of the invention has a number of associated benefits This will be discussed with reference to Figures 4, 5 and 6, in which similar components that have been described above have been indicated with similar reference numbers
  • SMS short message service
  • data messages SMS messages are limited to 160 bytes and have a relatively low per-message transaction cost, whereas data messages can be of any length and are charged for on a time-basis
  • SMS messages originating from a mobile site such as a vehicle 76 are received by the cellular GSM sites 80 and are transferred via the central GSM exchange 94 to short message service centres 102 comprising a plurality of servers Depending on the destination of the message, it is routed by the servers to the recipient, via a gate 104, a switching arrangement 106 and firewall 108, and then through an electronic data interface 110, such as a Diginet link interface 112 or an Internet connection 114 Data messages are sent directly to the electronic data interface, as shown at 116 The SMS message is then processed by a message management system 1 18, which is shown in more detail in Figure 5
  • the SMS and data messages may also be sent directly from a cellular site 80 to the message management system 118 via a GSM modem 120 Refer ⁇ ng now to Figure 5, the data and SMS messages entering the message management system 118 via the Diginet 112, the Internet 114 or the GSM modem 120 first passes through a message scheduler 122 which combines and schedules the incoming messages A plurality of vehicle units can be used from
  • the control station 92 is the same as that described in patent no 94/4150, save that not only does it receive signals from the fixed receiver stations 90 but also the message signals via the GSM network, as described above
  • the control station 92 comprises a receiver 140 for receiving these two types of signals as well as a mobile object tracking communications interface 142 which is in communication with the pager network, shown generally at 144
  • Signals received from the receiver stations 90 are sent to the interface 142 via link 146, whereas signals received from the GSM network are sent via link 148 to a decision interface 150 which is also in communication with the interface 142 via link 152
  • the interface 150 is in turn connected to an operation management database 154 which receives information from the beacon units and which acts as a subscriber database and logger
  • the interface 150 plays an important role in facilitating the sending of messages from the control station 92 to the vehicle 76 via the GSM network
  • These signals are sent to an SMS converter 156, via the link 136, which converts the signal to an SMS message
  • This message is then sent via the message translator 128, unit identifier 124, the message scheduler 122, the electronic data interface 110, and ultimately via the GSM exchange 94 back to the vehicle 76
  • the message passes onto the application layer 138, which is shown in more detail in Figure 6
  • the first check is to determine whether the message includes a service request or not If so, the type of service request is then determined, by determining which button of the keyring activator 29 has been pressed, with the message, including the vehicle's position, then being forwarded to the appropriate agency If the driver is lost, or if he or she is looking for the best route in current traffic conditions, the request would be routed to an assistance centre 158 Requests for facility information such as nearby restaurants, hotels, hospitals, tourist attractions and garage facilities could be handled in a similar manner If, however, the message is not a service request, the message is first checked to see if it is a vehicle status message which is defined as a message which is intended for the vehicle dealer or manufacturer and typically relate to servicing and other warranty issues of the vehicle For example, the vehicle might report that it is due for a service and allow the dealer the opportunity to contact the driver and advise him or her to bring the
  • the beacon unit 37 includes a self-test function which allows it to monitor itself to ensure that it is operating correctly First level testing will be done each time the unit 37 is armed Whenever a fault is detected, a warning will be given via the siren, with the unit also sending an appropriate message to the central control station 92 As mentioned above, it is also possible for a test to be initiated via the GSM network by either the control station 92 or any other authorised person Typically, the following features will be tested the correct operation of the CPU and memory, the RF power output level from the transmitters, the sensitivity of the receivers, regular cycling of the inputs and outputs and the correct operation of the serial links
  • the present invention may also be used for the monitoring of assets which have been fitted with a beacon unit
  • the position of the asset can then be determined, and transmitted to the central control station, as described above
  • the monitoring of freight on a trailer which is being towed by a vehicle which is fitted with a beacon unit 37 includes the cargo tracking unit 52 which is fitted to the trailer
  • a message would be sent to the beacon unit on the vehicle, which would then in turn acknowledge the message
  • an alarm signal would be sent to the control station 92
  • the transmitter 56 of the cargo tracking unit 52 continues to transmit a violation message which can then be independently tracked by recovery forces with a homing receiver
  • the invention described herein has a number of other potential applications As traffic volumes on highways grow to congestion levels, and because of the high cost and environmental implications of new construction, ways are being sought to use technology to utilise highways more efficiently A number of relevant applications have been identified in this regard, including electronic toll collection, electronic road pricing, electronic license plates, public transportation management, commercial vehicle operations, advanced traffic management, advanced traffic information systems and so on All of these systems require devices on the vehicle that allow at least short range communications and preferably long range communication and position information
  • signposts are located at entry and exit points to tolled roads or zones As a vehicle approaches the zone, it reads the signpost and initiates a financial transaction via the long range communications link, in this case a GSM network, using either a pre-registered credit card or a cash-loaded smartcard As soon as this transaction is confirmed, it signals the access control equipment, which then allows passage When the vehicle leaves the zone, a similar transaction can be used to calculate the toll amount which could be based on time in the zone, distance traveled, time of day, vehicle type etc.
  • the primary advantage of the present invention in this regard is that a single in-vehicle device can be used to achieve many objectives, thereby avoiding the multiplicity of devices currently contemplated
  • the most significant advantage of the dual network tracking system of the invention is that it combines the advantages of a dedicated tracking network in high density urban areas, and a GSM or similar non-dedicated broad area network in less dense rural areas to provide "universal" coverage

Abstract

A mobile object monitoring and tracking system includes a tracking unit 10 which is fitted to a mobile object. The unit 10 comprises a GSM transceiver 16 for receiving mobile object locating signals from and transmitting mobile object identification signals to an array of GSM sites in a GSM-based area network defining a broad area of coverage. The unit 10 further includes a signpost receiver 20 for receiving mobile object locating signals from a strategically located array of signpost stations in a dedicated area network defining a restricted area of coverage falling within the broad area of coverage. The tracking unit is also provided with a transmitter 18 for transmitting mobile object location and identification signals to a central control station for identifying the mobile object and determining its approximate location. The system provides a number of activating inputs 26 for activating the tracking unit 10 and a number of arming inputs 28 for transmitting emergency signals to the unit 10.

Description

A MOBILE OBJECT MONITORING SYSTEM
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
THIS invention relates to a mobile object monitoring system for monitoring mobile objects such as vehicles and their associated freight
South African patent 94/4150 discloses a dedicated vehicle tracking system including an array of signpost stations distributed strategically around an area to be monitored A vehicle-based receiver receives a signpost identification signal in the event of the vehicle being within the signpost footprint, and a vehicle-based beacon transmitter transmits a vehicle identification signal and a vehicle location signal derived from the signpost identification signal to a central control station for identifying the vehicle and determining its approximate position
This system has primarily been concentrated in urban areas where a high percentage of vehicle thefts occur, and where the high density of users is able to keep the costs per user to a minimum The advantage of a dedicated network of this type is that it is not clogged by other data traffic using the network As a result, mobile homing equipment carried on recovery vehicles and aircraft can easily monitor a regularly transmitted signal from a particular stolen vehicle and home in on it to recover the vehicle
In low density rural areas, the costs associated with establishing a dedicated network are prohibitively high on a per user basis
It is an object of the invention to provide a mobile object tracking and monitoring system which provides a larger coverage area, whilst at the same time affording users the benefits associated with a dedicated network SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a tracking unit arranged to be fitted to a mobile object, the unit comprising
transceiver means for receiving mobile object locating signals from and transmitting mobile object identification signals to a first array of stations in a broad area network defining a broad area of coverage,
receiver means for receiving mobile object locating signals from a second array of stations in a restricted area network defining a restricted area of coverage falling within the first broad area of coverage, and
transmitter means for transmitting mobile object location and identification signals to a central control station for identifying the mobile object and determining its approximate location
Typically, the broad area network is a non-dedicated network and the restricted area network is a dedicated network
Conveniently, the first array of stations is an array of GSM sites defining a GSM-based network, and the transceiver means is a GSM transceiver arranged to receive mobile object locating GSM signals from at least one of the GSM sites and to transmit GSM signals to at least one of the GSM sites
Preferably, the second array of stations includes a strategically located array of signpost stations, the receiver means being arranged to receive signpost identification signals from the signpost stations for locating the mobile object Advantageously, the tracking unit includes a pager receiver for receiving pager signals from a pager network forming part of the restricted area network
Typically, the tracking unit is linked to a message management system for allowing messages to be sent between the central control station and the tracking unit via the first array of stations in the broad area network
Conveniently, the message management system includes a data logger for storing the mobile object locating signals from the first and second array of stations
Preferably, the tracking unit includes a GPS receiver
Advantageously, the tracking unit includes a plurality of sensors for sensing unauthorized entry into or operation of the mobile object, the transmitter and transceiver means being responsive to the sensors
Typically, the tracking unit includes at least one manually arming and activating input for enabling the transmitter and transceiver means to transmit emergency condition signals or codes
Conveniently, the tracking unit includes mobile object immobilizing and/or alarm outputs responsive to the sensors or manually activating inputs
According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided a mobile object tracking system including
a first array of stations in a broad area network defining a broad area of coverage, a second array of stations in a restricted area network defining a restricted area of coverage within the broad area of coverage,
a central control station, and
a mobile object tracking unit associated with a mobile object, the unit comprising transceiver means for receiving locating signals from and transmitting identification signals to the first array of stations, receiver means for receiving locating signals from the second array of stations, and transmitter means for transmitting location and identification signals to the central control station for identifying the mobile object and determining its approximate location
Conveniently, the first array of stations is an array of GSM sites defining a GSM-based network, the GSM network including a GSM exchange linked to the central control station for relaying mobile object identification and location signals thereto
Preferably, the second array of stations includes a strategically located array of signpost stations, each signpost station including a signpost transmitter arranged to transmit a signpost identification signal to the receiver means in the event of the mobile object traversing a signpost footprint defined by the signpost station
Typically, the second array of signpost stations includes "border" signpost stations located at the periphery of the restricted area of coverage, the "border" signpost stations being arranged to transmit a signal indicating to the tracking unit that it is leaving or entering the restricted area of coverage Preferably, the mobile object tracking system includes a pager network forming part of the restricted area network, the tracking unit including a pager receiver
Conveniently, the mobile object tracking system includes a message management system for allowing messages to be sent between the central control station and the tracking unit via the first array of stations in the broad area network
Advantageously, the message management system includes a data logger for storing the mobile object locating signals from the first and second array of stations
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Figure 1 shows a highly schematic diagram of a vehicle-based beacon unit according to a first embodiment of the invention,
Figure 2 shows a detailed block diagram of a beacon unit according to a second embodiment of the invention,
Figure 3 shows a diagrammatic layout of a dual network vehicle monitoring system of the invention,
Figure 4 shows a block diagram of a communications network according to a third embodiment of the invention,
Figure 5 shows a block diagram of a message management system of the communications network shown in Figure 4, and Figure 6 shows a flow chart of an application layer of the message management system shown in Figure 5
DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
Referring to Figure 1 , a vehicle-based tracking or beacon unit 10 comprises a central processing unit 12 in the form of an integrated module provided with memory 14, and having a number of different inputs and outputs These include a GSM-based transmitter and receiver unit 16 arranged to transmit and receive signals in either the 900MHz or 1800MHz bands, a beacon transmitter 18, a signpost receiver 20 for receiving signals from a signpost station 21 , a pager receiver 22 and an optional GPS receiver 24
The beacon unit 10 is also provided with a number of activating inputs 26, with the signal on these inputs resulting in activation of the beacon unit The activating inputs 26 are of a contact closure nature and will be programmable high or low These may include a hijack button, a door switch, a brake switch, an ignition switch, boot or bonnet switches, a movement sensor, a "hotwiring" sensor, an airbag sensor or any other intrusion or activation sensor which senses unauthorized entry into or operation of the vehicle
A number of arming inputs 28 are also provided, including a keyring activator 29 or a short range "call for assistance" activator for transmitting various emergency condition codes, including "hijack/police", "breakdown", "medical aid" and/or "accident" codes, as well as to transmit arm and disarm signals Typically, the keyring activator provides a separate button for each emergency condition code, which assists in determining the nature of the emergency, as will be explained with reference to the message management system The arming inputs 28 may be received by the existing signpost receiver 20 or alternatively by the pager receiver 22 Alternatively, the beacon unit 10 may be armed via the GSM-based unit 16 by means of a telephone call being made to the unit 16, the call being accompanied by the input of a security PIN code Various alarm and immobilizing outputs 30 may also be provided for, respectively, operating a fuel cut-off solenoid 32 and a siren 34 and for flashing the vehicle lights 36 in response to an alarm condition arising Typically, a relay contact or a solid state driver can be used to operate the lights 36 and the remaining outputs
Figure 2 shows a second preferred embodiment of a beacon unit 37, wherein similar components which have been described above with reference to Figure 1 have been indicated with similar reference numbers The GSM and GPS modules 16 and 24 are combined in a single main module 38 The main module 38 includes four wired inputs from the activating inputs 26, four wired outputs leading to the immobilizing outputs 30 and two RS232 serial ports 40 and 42 A separate dedicated transceiver module 44 includes a 915MHz beacon transmitter 18 and a 403 9MHz receiver 46 for receiving signals from the keyring activator transmitter 29, together with a supporting central processing unit 48 and RAM 50 The dedicated module 44 is connected to the main module 38 by means of the serial port 40 The serial port 42 is used to connect optional modules to the main module 38, such as an on-board computer 41 A of the vehicle, a voice handset 41 B to allow cellular telephone calls to be made or a personal digital assistant 41 C for facilitating Internet and other digital communications The serial port connections 40 and 42 may take the form of BLUETOOTH® links or similar wireless links The receiver 46 is also used to receive signals from signpost stations 21 in order to provide positional information, as will be described further below As described above the keyring activator transmitter 29 is typically used to arm and disarm the beacon unit 37 Alternatively, a RF device carried by the driver of the vehicle which is mounted with the beacon unit 37 could continuously emit a signal which could automatically arm the beacon unit 37 if the driver is out of range further than, say, 5m from the beacon unit 37 The vehicle-based beacon unit 37 may also include an associated cargo- based cargo tracking unit 52 and a data logger 54, which is typically based at a central control station The cargo tracking unit 52 includes a 915MHz transmitter 56, a low power 403 9MHz transmitter 58 which communicates with the receiver 46, a 915MHz receiver 60 which communicates with the beacon transmitter 18, and an associated central processing unit 62 and RAM 64 The data logger 54 includes a low power 403 9MHz transmitter 66, a 915MHz receiver 68, as well as a central processing unit 70 and RAM 72 A serial port 74 connects the data logger 54 to a data terminal such as a personal computer
The vehicle-based beacon unit 37 will now be described with reference to the dual network illustrated in Figure 3 The unit 37 is fitted to a vehicle 76 which follows a route 78 through the network The dual network comprises a GSM network in the form of a plurality of pre-existing GSM sites 80 which in combination define a broad area of coverage An array of signpost stations 82 having respective footprints 84 form part of a dedicated network providing a restricted area of coverage 86 within the broad coverage area defined by the GSM network The restricted area of coverage 86 typically covers a more densely populated urban area Border signpost stations 82 1 are arranged at strategic locations around the outer periphery of the restricted area 86 Also located within the restricted area 86 is a receiver network comprising a number of fixed receiver stations 90 which are more sparsely arranged than the signpost stations 82 The receiver stations 90 act as relay stations for relaying signals from the vehicle beacon unit 37 to a central control station 92 The control station 92 is linked directly to a central GSM exchange 94, which in turn controls call routing through the GSM network constituted by the GSM sites 80 The restricted area of coverage 86 also includes a commercial pager network providing a paging service via a number of pager transmitters 96 The operation of the dedicated network within the restricted area 86 is essentially identical to that described in South African patent 94/4150. In brief, the respective signpost and pager receivers 20 and 22 respectively listen actively for signals from the signpost beacons 82 and pager transmitters 86. The signals from the signpost beacons 82 include signpost identification information, which is combined with the vehicle identification code. In the event of the beacon unit being activated, a combined signal is transmitted to the central control station 92 from the transmitter 18 via one of the receivers 90 or relay stations, as is shown at 98.
In the event of the signpost receiver 20 receiving a specially designated signpost identification signal from a border signpost station 82.1 , this serves to indicate that the vehicle is leaving the restricted area of coverage 86. On receipt of the border signpost signal, the beacon unit 37 effectively switches from the dedicated network to the GSM network by activating the GSM transceiver unit 16. At the same time, a signal is transmitted to the central control station 92 via the border signpost station 82.1 indicating that the vehicle 76 is leaving the restricted area of coverage. Subsequent communication is via the GSM network constituted by the GSM sites 80. The GSM network is capable of providing positional accuracy in the region of 1 km, by monitoring which GSM sites are communicating with the transceiver 16. On the basis of relative signal strengths, it may be possible to obtain accuracy to 100m to 200m for medium accuracy positioning. The GPS receiver 24 is the only practical means by which 20m accuracy may consistently be achieved. The beacon unit 37 will also switch over to the GSM network in the case where the signpost receiver 20 does not receive a signpost identification signal from a signpost station 82 within a fixed period of time, typically three minutes.
When the vehicle is outside the dedicated network but within GSM coverage, its tracking unit will periodically send a message to the central control station 92 from the GSM transceiver 16 via the GSM sites 80 and a conventional land ne network to confirm that the vehicle is secure As was mentioned above, the position of the vehicle is known approximately on the basis of the identification of the currently active GSM sιte(s) If the vehicle is stolen, this is sensed by one of the sensors 26, or via the signpost receiver 20 in conjunction with the signposts 82 Alternatively, activation takes place via one of the remote activators 28, which immediately results in a violation message being sent via the transceiver 16 to the central control station 92 Recovery is initiated by sending recovery forces with a mobile tracking unit such as a vehicle 93 1 or a helicopter 93 2 A stand-alone pager transmitter or alternatively the GSM network itself can be used to activate the transmitter 18 of the beacon unit 37, enabling the mobile tracking unit to home in on the vehicle
When the vehicle enters the dedicated coverage area 86 at point A, it receives a signal from the border signpost station 82 1 via the signpost receiver 20, and automatically switches so that it is responsive to signals from the signpost stations 82 within the restricted area of coverage
In the event of the vehicle 76 being stolen whilst it is within the dedicated network it may automatically be remotely activated by sending a pager message via the pager receiver 22 In the activated state, the beacon transmitter 18 continuously transmits emergency messages to the receivers 90, which are then relayed to the central control station 92 As is described in South African patent 94/4150, whenever the vehicle passes a signpost beacon 82 the identity of the beacon is attached to the transmitted message, and the control room 92 can thus determine the location and direction of the travel as at least the last and previous signpost beacon identifications are always transmitted Recovery forces can then be dispatched with a suitable homing receiver, after which the vehicle may be recovered In the event of the vehicle exiting the dedicated network 86 at point B, this is signaled by the border signpost station 82 1 In addition, loss of a signal on the constantly monitored pager channel via the pager receiver 22 is also indicative of the vehicle leaving the dedicated coverage area The beacon unit 37 will switch back to GSM mode in which it can continue sending messages to the control room via the GSM transceiver 16 and the GSM network
The dual mode vehicle monitoring system of the invention has a number of associated benefits This will be discussed with reference to Figures 4, 5 and 6, in which similar components that have been described above have been indicated with similar reference numbers By relying on GSM communications, two-way messaging and voice communications are available, with a link 99 typically being provided between the central control station 92 and client premises 100 In particular, there are two types of messages that can be sent, namely short message service (SMS) messages and data messages SMS messages are limited to 160 bytes and have a relatively low per-message transaction cost, whereas data messages can be of any length and are charged for on a time-basis
SMS messages originating from a mobile site such as a vehicle 76 are received by the cellular GSM sites 80 and are transferred via the central GSM exchange 94 to short message service centres 102 comprising a plurality of servers Depending on the destination of the message, it is routed by the servers to the recipient, via a gate 104, a switching arrangement 106 and firewall 108, and then through an electronic data interface 110, such as a Diginet link interface 112 or an Internet connection 114 Data messages are sent directly to the electronic data interface, as shown at 116 The SMS message is then processed by a message management system 1 18, which is shown in more detail in Figure 5 The SMS and data messages may also be sent directly from a cellular site 80 to the message management system 118 via a GSM modem 120 Referπng now to Figure 5, the data and SMS messages entering the message management system 118 via the Diginet 112, the Internet 114 or the GSM modem 120 first passes through a message scheduler 122 which combines and schedules the incoming messages A plurality of vehicle units can be used from various manufacturers, with the messages then entering a vehicle unit identifier 124 which identifies what type of vehicle unit has sent the message, with the various vehicle units shown generally at 126 Each unit identifier 124 includes a table of characteristics of all the different types of vehicle units used within the system Using the characteristics of the identified unit, a message translator 128 converts the message to a standardised message format 130 The standardised message format 130 is 160 characters long, which conveniently allows for it to be sent as an SMS message via the GSM network The standardised message is then checked to see if it is a violation message, as shown at 132, such as theft, hijack, tampering etc , in which case the message undergoes some further processing at 134 and is then routed to the control station 92 via a modem, RF link or wire link 136 where the necessary action is initiated If the standardised message is not a violation message, it gets routed to an application layer 138, shown in Figure 6, for further processing
The control station 92 is the same as that described in patent no 94/4150, save that not only does it receive signals from the fixed receiver stations 90 but also the message signals via the GSM network, as described above In short, the control station 92 comprises a receiver 140 for receiving these two types of signals as well as a mobile object tracking communications interface 142 which is in communication with the pager network, shown generally at 144 Signals received from the receiver stations 90 are sent to the interface 142 via link 146, whereas signals received from the GSM network are sent via link 148 to a decision interface 150 which is also in communication with the interface 142 via link 152 The interface 150 is in turn connected to an operation management database 154 which receives information from the beacon units and which acts as a subscriber database and logger
The interface 150 plays an important role in facilitating the sending of messages from the control station 92 to the vehicle 76 via the GSM network These signals are sent to an SMS converter 156, via the link 136, which converts the signal to an SMS message This message is then sent via the message translator 128, unit identifier 124, the message scheduler 122, the electronic data interface 110, and ultimately via the GSM exchange 94 back to the vehicle 76
If at 132 it is determined that the incoming message is not a violation message, the message passes onto the application layer 138, which is shown in more detail in Figure 6 The first check is to determine whether the message includes a service request or not If so, the type of service request is then determined, by determining which button of the keyring activator 29 has been pressed, with the message, including the vehicle's position, then being forwarded to the appropriate agency If the driver is lost, or if he or she is looking for the best route in current traffic conditions, the request would be routed to an assistance centre 158 Requests for facility information such as nearby restaurants, hotels, hospitals, tourist attractions and garage facilities could be handled in a similar manner If, however, the message is not a service request, the message is first checked to see if it is a vehicle status message which is defined as a message which is intended for the vehicle dealer or manufacturer and typically relate to servicing and other warranty issues of the vehicle For example, the vehicle might report that it is due for a service and allow the dealer the opportunity to contact the driver and advise him or her to bring the vehicle into a service centre In the event of a breakdown, the dealer may send a self-test request from which he could determine what kind of repair is necessary If it is determined that the message is intended for fleet management purposes, it is routed to a fleet management server 160 This server 160 would support a number of fleet management oriented services which could then be accessed by a fleet manager In one application, the fleet manager may simply want to know what route a particular vehicle travelled in the previous 24 hour period As a vehicle drives around the network, it collects signpost information which may then be downloaded onto the data logger 54 and which ultimately gets stored on the operation management database 154 A software-based application will then allow the manager to view this data, with the data typically being displayed on a map In addition, a fleet manager will also be able to check the position, load status and the like of their vehicles, and to relay instructions to their drivers at any time The fleet management facility may be extended to provide an alarm in the event of the vehicles straying off a designated route, or into undesirable areas
The beacon unit 37 includes a self-test function which allows it to monitor itself to ensure that it is operating correctly First level testing will be done each time the unit 37 is armed Whenever a fault is detected, a warning will be given via the siren, with the unit also sending an appropriate message to the central control station 92 As mentioned above, it is also possible for a test to be initiated via the GSM network by either the control station 92 or any other authorised person Typically, the following features will be tested the correct operation of the CPU and memory, the RF power output level from the transmitters, the sensitivity of the receivers, regular cycling of the inputs and outputs and the correct operation of the serial links
As indicated above, the present invention may also be used for the monitoring of assets which have been fitted with a beacon unit Thus, when the beacon unit is detected by a signpost station, the position of the asset can then be determined, and transmitted to the central control station, as described above In one particular application, the monitoring of freight on a trailer which is being towed by a vehicle which is fitted with a beacon unit 37 includes the cargo tracking unit 52 which is fitted to the trailer At regular intervals, a message would be sent to the beacon unit on the vehicle, which would then in turn acknowledge the message Thus, should the trailer be violated in some manner or be separated from the vehicle by more than, for example, 100m, an alarm signal would be sent to the control station 92 Advantageously, the transmitter 56 of the cargo tracking unit 52 continues to transmit a violation message which can then be independently tracked by recovery forces with a homing receiver
The invention described herein has a number of other potential applications As traffic volumes on highways grow to congestion levels, and because of the high cost and environmental implications of new construction, ways are being sought to use technology to utilise highways more efficiently A number of relevant applications have been identified in this regard, including electronic toll collection, electronic road pricing, electronic license plates, public transportation management, commercial vehicle operations, advanced traffic management, advanced traffic information systems and so on All of these systems require devices on the vehicle that allow at least short range communications and preferably long range communication and position information
By way of example, electronic toiling and road pricing by means of the present invention will be described Both of these applications require a vehicle to announce its entry into a tolled zone, and to pay the toll in an acceptable manner Using the present invention, signposts are located at entry and exit points to tolled roads or zones As a vehicle approaches the zone, it reads the signpost and initiates a financial transaction via the long range communications link, in this case a GSM network, using either a pre-registered credit card or a cash-loaded smartcard As soon as this transaction is confirmed, it signals the access control equipment, which then allows passage When the vehicle leaves the zone, a similar transaction can be used to calculate the toll amount which could be based on time in the zone, distance traveled, time of day, vehicle type etc The primary advantage of the present invention in this regard is that a single in-vehicle device can be used to achieve many objectives, thereby avoiding the multiplicity of devices currently contemplated
The most significant advantage of the dual network tracking system of the invention is that it combines the advantages of a dedicated tracking network in high density urban areas, and a GSM or similar non-dedicated broad area network in less dense rural areas to provide "universal" coverage

Claims

C LAI MS
1 A tracking unit arranged to be fitted to a mobile object, the unit comprising
transceiver means for receiving mobile object locating signals from and transmitting mobile object identification signals to a first array of stations in a broad area network defining a broad area of coverage,
receiver means for receiving mobile object locating signals from a second array of stations in a restricted area network defining a restricted area of coverage falling within the first broad area of coverage, and
transmitter means for transmitting mobile object location and identification signals to a central control station for identifying the mobile object and determining its approximate location
2 A tracking unit according to claim 1 in which the broad area network is a non-dedicated network and the restricted area network is a dedicated network
3 A tracking unit according to either one of the preceding claims 1 or 2 in which the first array of stations is an array of GSM sites defining a GSM-based network, and the transceiver means is a GSM transceiver arranged to receive mobile object locating GSM signals from at least one of the GSM sites and to transmit GSM signals to at least one of the GSM sites A tracking unit according to any one of the preceding claims in which the second array of stations includes a strategically located array of signpost stations, the receiver means being arranged to receive signpost identification signals from the signpost stations for locating the mobile object
A tracking unit according to any one of the preceding claims which includes a pager receiver for receiving pager signals from a pager network forming part of the restricted area network
A tracking unit according to any one of the preceding claims which is linked to a message management system for allowing messages to be sent between the central control station and the tracking unit via the first array of stations in the broad area network
A tracking unit according to claim 6 wherein the message management system includes a data logger for storing the mobile object locating signals from the first and second array of stations
A tracking unit according to any one of the preceding claims which includes a GPS receiver
A tracking unit according to any one of the preceding claims which includes a plurality of sensors for sensing unauthorized entry into or operation of the mobile object, the transmitter and transceiver means being responsive to the sensors
A tracking unit according to any one of the preceding claims which includes at least one manually arming and activating input for enabling the transmitter and transceiver means to transmit emergency condition signals or codes A tracking unit according to either one of the preceding claims 9 or 10 which includes mobile object immobilizing and/or alarm outputs responsive to the sensors or manually activating inputs
A mobile object tracking system including
a first array of stations in a broad area network defining a broad area of coverage,
a second array of stations in a restricted area network defining a restricted area of coverage within the broad area of coverage,
a central control station, and
a mobile object tracking unit associated with a mobile object, the unit comprising transceiver means for receiving locating signals from and transmitting identification signals to the first array of stations, receiver means for receiving locating signals from the second array of stations, and transmitter means for transmitting location and identification signals to the central control station for identifying the mobile object and determining its approximate location
A mobile object tracking system according to claim 12 in which the first array of stations is an array of GSM sites defining a GSM-based network, the GSM network including a GSM exchange linked to the central control station for relaying mobile object identification and location signals thereto A mobile object tracking system according to either one of the preceding claims 12 or 13 in which the second array of stations includes a strategically located array of signpost stations, each signpost station including a signpost transmitter arranged to transmit a signpost identification signal to the receiver means in the event of the mobile object traversing a signpost footprint defined by the signpost station
A mobile object tracking system according to claim 14 in which the second array of signpost stations includes "border" signpost stations located at the periphery of the restricted area of coverage, the "border" signpost stations being arranged to transmit a signal indicating to the tracking unit that it is leaving or entering the restricted area of coverage
A mobile object tracking system according to any one of the preceding claims 12 to 14 which includes a pager network forming part of the restricted area network, the tracking unit including a pager receiver
A mobile object tracking system according to any one of claims 12 to 16 which includes a message management system for allowing messages to be sent between the central control station and the tracking unit via the first array of stations in the broad area network
A mobile object tracking system according to claim 17 wherein the message management system includes a data logger for storing the mobile object locating signals from the first and second array of stations
PCT/IB2000/001597 1999-11-05 2000-11-06 A mobile object monitoring system WO2001032480A1 (en)

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EP1251475A3 (en) * 2001-04-19 2005-03-30 Peer, Ferdinand Method to facilitate and monitor the trip of travellers
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