Mobile portable wireless communication system

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

0001The This invention relates to bi-directional communication via a Radio link and in particular the information transmissions between a Vehicle and one or more remote sites via a configured network such as the Internet.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

0002the Establishing communication links with vehicles which do frequently has several locations or between Routes move locations, gaining such. B. <patcit><text>EP 05 010 58A</text></patcit> explained increasingly important. Thus, it is often desirable to the location of a particular vehicle at a given time to know. Such a vehicle could z. B. transport goods, and the waiting receiver the cargo would know the current location of the transport vehicle. can also useful it be, the condition of the cargo such. as the temperature of frozen cargo to be monitored. Except the transported goods on the vehicles can also use the vehicles themselves in some states out as engine condition or other parameters are monitored. This information can make sure that the vehicles are properly maintained to downtime and to avoid a necessary use of a roadside assistance service. Further applications of the communication with vehicles could security considerations and the security concern. You can connect an ambulance with an on medical devices WATCHING connected patients who continuously or periodically patient data collect. While patient transport can this patient data to medical personnel at a remote site, z. B. a hospital received, in order for there the patient's arrival can be prepared. When the patient arrives, these data are then already evaluated will and decisions taken as provided best for the patient can. Other safety and emergency tests could one on unlocking a vehicle door, the triggering Alarm by pressing a switch, the automatic display of an air bag deployment and the automatic generation of a signal on prolonged absence an expected input signal relate.

0003polling and receiving such data from vehicles in connection with different vehicle-related applications are considerably more difficult. especially there is no universal system or package for operation configured with vehicles, of which several users for different Need purposes and applications information. Usually use Users for your Tasks or applications, different computer hardware and Telecommunications equipment and different software. In terms of of the vehicle itself, and depending upon the desired applications of a particular user must the data to be collected from a potentially large number physical devices be available. With such a wide range of existing and potential Applications and available devices and equipment has an appropriate and effective link provided be to provide an accurate and efficient communication between the to allow the remote station and the vehicle. In terms of mobility the vehicle must be a part of the communication wirelessly via a Radio link carried. The desired Communication with vehicles requires also a flexible adaptation changing applications regarding of this vehicle information including modified or at a later Date added physical devices and the connection of new users with different physical devices and possibly other information requirements, and other parameters. It must more users simultaneously can access different information, what possibly the fulfillment of several Tasks in the vehicle requires, before this information is collected and transmitted to remote station can be. Despite all these requirements and objectives must implement such a communication system neither cumbersome nor unreasonably expensive be. It is important that the communication system and the processability portable and practical for the vehicle surroundings are and use protocols that the know many diverse users.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

0004According to the present Invention, there is provided according to claim 1, in which a system the communication of information, including requests, commands, and data between a vehicle with built-in physical equipment and made to one or more remote from the vehicle bodies is. The information communication is via standardized implemented network connections that allow a plurality of users, the desired Information, either simultaneously or at different times with different communication and processing hardware / software and different applications and with different vehicle equipment concerned to obtain information needed, avoiding complicated avoiding constructions in the networking of the remote terminal with the vehicle equipment will.

0005the contains system At the opposite side, a computer terminal, the conventional one PC may be using a modem. The computer terminal can be a modem with a first standardized communication network such as the Internet to communicate. It engages z. B. a standing to his disposal Internet or Word Wide Web browser. The computer terminal over to the browser an IP (Internet Protocol) address. heard this IP address about a certain vehicle, including the in-vehicle communications-related hardware. Typically, the IP address with a request or a command with respect to the information or data connected that are available from this vehicle. Since the bidirectional Communication on the communication link with a vehicle at least in parts over out radio is, the Internet has also to this first standardized communications network with a suitable Interface or a suitable network communicate that via radio is connected to the vehicle. In one embodiment, provides the cellular digitized packet data network (Cellular Packet Data Digitized - CDPD) the desired including compound the arrangement to be transmitted to the Information ready to give the destination subscriber, namely the Vehicle in question, within the network. If at that date Vehicle one channel available, can Internet packets on the CDPD link be transmitted to the vehicle of interest. instead could the CDPD network as compound a communication interface to be used, the only data treated, such as. for example, a two-way Funkrufschnittstelle to the vehicle.

0006For processing requirements, Commands and information including data transfers in terms of of the vehicle, in particular with respect to the vehicle equipment data, the vehicle has certain hardware and software. To receive Information from the Internet is a radio apparatus with suitable hardware and respective channels, such. as a cellular phone, as a receiver for this information in connection with a suitable radio communication modem such. as a CDPD network modem. The radio is included in the vehicle and communicates with a controller over a Telephone interface. The phone interface provides the necessary electrical signal connections between the outgoing wires from the radio or channels and the controller inputs ready.

0007Of the Controller as a key unit the system is also located in the vehicle and includes a Series of hardware and software elements. In particular reacts a TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) stack on a received request or a command received with execution multiple functions. The received request has a corresponding IP address, and it is checked, if this address is correct. Furthermore, the accuracy of which is the formatted data checked. The TCP is responsible for the Controlling the structure and flow of the received information. For this purpose, the TCP / IP stack a number of sockets, with which it communicates or is connected is, the respective socket of the contents of the received information depends. This includes to the for the TCP / IP stack available Sockets a server. For effective communication via the Internet is an HTTP (hypertext transmission protocol) server used. The website operates according to the Worldwide Web protocol and service information related requests in HTTP format and receives or retrieves information in response to receiving a request or a command and transmits or stores information in response on receipt of a request or a command. The controller contains and a data memory for storing data in HTML (Hyper Text Markup Language) format, which data often first retrieve vehicle equipment have been stored and the data store. For example, calls the Web the desired upon a request from the data store and encapsulates data they in accordance with the HTTP format one in order from the controller via the radio set by a suitable radio link modem to a destination (Remote station) to be transmitted.

0008Of the Web server also communicates with a CGI-bin (Common Gateway Interface-binary) program, which also is part of the controller. The CGI-bin program supports Connection of the web server with a number of in a program memory stored executable Programs. This executable Programs for polling or the provision of vehicle-device-related data or other Information will be used. In one embodiment, a run or more executable From programs to obtain data that then in HTML format in the data memory for one later Access and later use including their transmission are stored at a remote site. The controller also contains a real-time operating system (Real Time Operating System - RTOS) the commonly a number of services related to the execution of a or more application-based tasks administered. The RTOS works z. B. with the running application software for managing of the application software running Tasks and stored in the file storage data together. Particularly in connection with a vehicle could be the executable Software a wealth of applications such. B .: Current Location of drivingzeugs; Vehicle maintenance monitoring parameters, such as state the engine, coolant level, oil pressure and Battery life; Freight terms like delivery status and relevant freight states such as temperature; Alarms, what others have certain predefined events related to the vehicle to inform such as deployment of the airbag. and if in the vehicle, a patient is transported, monitoring data regarding the Patient's vital signs.

0009To the Receipt of information or data from these vehicle devices corresponding processing means such. as one or more executable Programs in the program memory the controller communicates with a second standardized network such. as the previously developed Controller Area Network (CAN), which is commercially available available is and is used in vehicles. The CAN is connected to each of a plurality of vehicle devices operationally connected which desired transfer data, receive or transmit both and received. The vehicle equipment contain z. B. sensor or other physical devices, the payload recognize and passed to the application software they after receipt the proper request or the correct command to Information further processed, which then transferred to the memory later transfer stored or even transferred directly without processing will. could instead of the CAN other available Networks such. Arcnet B. be used which is a similar protocol as the CAN uses.

0010More accurate specifically, the server interprets after receiving a above described request and according to a method the transmitted requirement for the transfer information from the controller over the radio to a Remote and notes that certain stored in the data memory Data is requested by a user at the remote terminal. The stored data is retrieved from the Web server and the HTTP format for transmission over the Internet ready. The HTTP-formatted information the TCP / IP stack for controlling transmission of the requested information to be sent and to assign an IP address to the Information supplied. After proper preparation the information by means of the TCP / IP-stack memory can via radio transmitted to the Internet by means of suitable radio link modem will.

0011In a variation of this operation, the transmission of information including Data in the vehicle itself, rather than through an outgoing from the remote station Request be made. For example, it may be necessary or desirable be that certain data parameters regularly to a remote site for or transfer analysis for other purposes will. In still another operation variation, an additional information transfer by another, located at another remote site users received in the period in which the controller a first information request processed. In this case allows the TCP / IP stack together with the operating system, the controlled Running multiple Tasks so that multiple users at the same time with the controller can communicate.

0012Preferably the controller will cause the vehicle also has an interface such. As an RS232 connection, an Ethernet connection and / or a PCMCIA-unit for communication with one or more available systems on. In an appropriate embodiment, the controller includes a direct Communications port to transfer and receiving information, without which the radio and Internet connection to the radio manages. In this embodiment receives the direct communication connection information or data about a Another source contained in the vehicle such. as the car radio. Subcarrier information are transmitted to the radio and decoded and the direct communication port for subsequent Analysis or use by the CAN entered. In yet another variation of the controller operation, each vehicle device in CAN its own IP name or address, so that the distance Users that name or address to communicate with the chosen can use vehicle carrying this designation or address. Of the Controller uses the received IP address or the name for the device and serves the remote user as a connection or bridge to the respective device.

0013by virtue of the above summary can be a number of distinctive features of the determine the present invention clearly, including the fundamental Elimination or avoidance of numerous different and complex Hardware and software means for communicating information between physical devices in the vehicle and one or more computers at one or more Remote sites. A combination of controller-specific components can be placed in a vehicle, which on requirements respond from remote sites to retrieve information from vehicle devices and store and available in the program memory of the controller or operate loaded executable software from the remote down, while she information including Data about exchanged a decorated network such as the Internet with the remote site to be, execute and configure. In addition, the controller communicates efficiently with another standard network contained in the vehicle as the Controller Area Network to retrieve data from vehicle devices and, if necessary, to transmit messages or information to the vehicle devices. The controller elements are for communicatively effective compound formerly incompatible external or in-vehicle networks to build a functional mobile Communication system critical. The overall system including the enables standardized networks effectively, both the substantially simultaneous as well as the separate execution a variety of applications by multiple users, the applications to one or more of the many different selectable vehicle equipment access without the need for extensive storage capacity must be assigned in the vehicle.

0014More Advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following explanation seen in particular in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

0015<figref idrefs="S26">1</figref> shows a block diagram of general components of the system for Information communication between one or more remote stations and a vehicle;

0016<figref idrefs="S27">2</figref> shows a more detailed block diagram of the major elements of the controller;

0017<figref idrefs="S28">3</figref> shows a flow chart of the main steps of the bidirectional communication between one or more remote stations and the vehicle-based controller, which is caused by the remote station to a message; and

0018<figref idrefs="S29">4</figref> shows a flowchart of the main steps in the communication, from which Vehicle is made to a remote site.

DETAILED EXPLANATION

0019Based on of the block diagram in <figref idrefs="S26">1</figref> becomes a System for bidirectional communication between one or more remote sites <figref>10a</figref>-<figref>10n</figref> and a vehicle shown. The bi-directional communication over several User and a number of different vehicle related applications to run. Each remote terminal can communication and processing related have hardware and software that is different from that of the other remote stations differs. To extensive and user-specific hardware and software to build up the desired To avoid two-way communication, is a standardized Remote network communications link <figref>14</figref> used. Ie., Each user who wants to communicate with the vehicle needs the necessary intermeshing networks and protocols for communication not to develop the car and set up. All users, even those who independently work by users, may the vehicle has the same standardized remote network communications link <figref>14</figref> to accomplish, regardless of the application or applications that they are for implementation use or operation in conjunction with the hardware and software related to the vehicle. In a preferred embodiment, The Internet is the standardized remote network communications link <figref>14</figref>, Regarding the Communication with a vehicle need to be communicated, the be information configured or formatted to a properly Radio link are transmitted to the vehicle can. This is achieved by means of a suitable switching station, commonly referred to as remote wireless communications protocol modem <figref>16</figref> referred to as. In one embodiment, the communication information is formatted according to a CDPD configuration. This information is in the vehicle by a radio <figref>18</figref> receive, the information on transfer the radio connection and can receive. The radio<figref>18</figref> is operatively connected to a vehicle-based wireless communications protocol modem <figref>20</figref> to proper handling of for the Radio link connected formatted information. In one embodiment, the wireless device contains<figref>18</figref> on Cellular telephone, which consists of a variety of conventional or commercial selected cellular telephones has been. The radio<figref>18</figref> communicates bi-directionally with a controller contained in the vehicle <figref>30</figref> over a Radio device interface <figref>22</figref> by means of a network protocol converter <figref>26</figref>, The radio device interface<figref>22</figref> provides the necessary compatibility the signals and connections of the radio <figref>18</figref> ago. The network protocol converter<figref>26</figref> away the information entered or otherwise converts in one of the controller <figref>30</figref> acceptable form or alternatively makes the information compatible with the remote wireless communications protocol modem <figref>16</figref>. once this information the radio link by means of the network protocol converter <figref>26</figref> transfer will. As in<figref idrefs="S26">1</figref> shown is the network protocol converter <figref>26</figref> indeed an essential part of the radio <figref>18</figref> and physically from controller <figref>30</figref> separated but electrically connected with it, so that the controller <figref>30</figref> itself a network protocol converter is required. In more detail herein described preferred embodiment the network protocol converter contains<figref>26</figref> a TCP / IP stack, the part of the controller <figref>30</figref> be can, so that the controller <figref>30</figref> as controller / network protocol converter <figref>30</figref> defined or can be referred to. The controller<figref>30</figref> for a number functions responsible: He understands the one or more remote stations <figref>10</figref> received Information and responds accordingly, he calls requested information off and it returns in response, and controls the operation with reference to the other elements in the vehicle available Information, including data. For this purpose, the controller communicates <figref>30</figref> with a controller interface <figref>44</figref>. which the appropriate message and data handling functions in connection with transfer and receiving information including data from each of a Variety of physical vehicle devices <figref>50</figref> provides operatively connected to a bus <figref>46</figref> the standardized vehicle network <figref>40</figref> connected are. Like the standardized remote network<figref>14</figref> is the standardized vehicle network <figref>40</figref> a configured and previously developed Network, which is connected to vehicle components such. As the engine is to desired or requested data regarding provide operation or status of such component. An important Aspect of the system of the present invention refers to the Establishing communication between two incompatible and totally different standardized networks. Specifically, the device provides the complete communication capabilities between numerous remote sites via a global or distant standardized network and vehicle devices via a local standardized Network to VERSCHI forth edenen or equal times, even if the global and the local networks are configured very differently and considerable differences have protocols and environmental conditions. Ie., The standardized wide area network <figref>14</figref> such. as the Internet is an information communication system configured without geographical boundaries. The vehicle-based or standardized local area network <figref>40</figref> is designed such that it properly in electrically noisy and otherwise harsh vehicle environment is working. The various design objectives and problems of these two different standardized networks require therefore a communication related system, which these two networks, further operatively connected to these two networks hard- and software enables effectively bi-directionally communicate with each other. According to the present invention can the vehicle equipment <figref>50</figref> a size Number of different devices included, including common Including data which information is vehicle parts or components and received, and in some cases this information to respond with their analysis or processing. To provide information for a remote site <figref>10</figref> consists a substantially symmetrical relationship between the elements in <figref idrefs="S26">1</figref>, D. h., The controller<figref>30</figref> information can for the transmission to a remote station <figref>10</figref> including data or other of one or more vehicle devices <figref>50</figref> by means of standardized vehicle network <figref>40</figref> Preparing available information. This information is the radio <figref>18</figref> over its interface <figref>22</figref> to transfer by means of the vehicle-based Wireless communications protocol modems <figref>20</figref> about the Wireless connection of standardized remote network <figref>14</figref> to the remote <figref>10</figref> With the remote wireless communications protocol modem <figref>16</figref> to hand over.

0020Now be based <figref idrefs="S27">2</figref> further details of the device from <figref idrefs="S26">1</figref> explained, in particular while key elements of the controller contained in the vehicle <figref>30</figref>, <figref idrefs="S27">2</figref> shows one location <figref>10a</figref> with a computer terminal <figref>60</figref>, In one embodiment, is the computer terminal <figref>60</figref> on usual PC with the usual Hardware and software components and capabilities including import and output devices such as keyboard, mouse and monitor. The computer terminal<figref>60</figref> communicates with a modem <figref>64</figref>To get the information to and from the computer terminal via conventional Communication links such as to transfer telephone lines. In the preferred embodiment allows the modem <figref>64</figref> the computer terminal <figref>60</figref> the communication with the Internet <figref>68</figref>, In one embodiment, the computer terminal<figref>60</figref> a or more available browser <figref>72</figref> for information communication request or -Beantwortung in terms of of a particular vehicle. The Internet<figref>68</figref> communicates operationally which, via a standardized network transmission protocol, bidirectional transmission of information on the wireless connection enables and contains in one embodiment, a remote CDPD network modem <figref>76</figref>That the information conventionally common Way to transfer and communication with a cellular telephone contained in the vehicle <figref>80</figref> prepared. The cellular telephone <figref>80</figref> may be any one of the plurality usual his cellular telephone, which are capable of the desired formatted transfer or arranged information. In that in<figref idrefs="S27">2</figref> shown execution is the cellular telephone <figref>80</figref> operatively connected to a vehicle-based CDPD network modem <figref>82</figref> connected, which demodulates the received information in order to continue can be treated or processed. A telephone interface<figref>84</figref> combines the cellular <figref>80</figref> with the controller <figref>30</figref> and is preferably cooperation with a variety of cellular telephones with different output terminals and / or arrangements of output ports configured. It supports the telephone interface<figref>84</figref> the Providing a proper battery charging function for the cellular telephone <figref>80</figref>, The identification of the respectively used cellular telephone <figref>80</figref> as well as the production of the correct electrical connections for the run or the communication of signals between the cellular telephone <figref>80</figref> and the controller <figref>30</figref>, A suitable telephone interface<figref>84</figref>. or at least parts thereof, are in <patcit><text>US Pat. No. 5,333,177</text></patcit>Issued under on 26 July 1994 entitled "Universal Connection for Cellular Telephone Interface ", described.

0021As also in <figref idrefs="S27">2</figref> shown, the controller <figref>30</figref> a Number of elements to process the roles and responsibilities for answering Messages such. as requests or commands from one or more remote stations <figref>10</figref>, Executable on the expiry Software and retrieval of data and for the coordination of the necessary Communication protocols to the Internet <figref>68</figref>, The controller<figref>30</figref> contains a processor <figref>90</figref> to perform executable by processing steps including the sequence Program code also for the use or transfer of data to the the controller <figref>30</figref> Has access. Preferably, processor<figref>90</figref> on single microprocessor in conjunction with a real-time operating system (RTOS) <figref>94</figref> several fulfills tasks. Ie., The RTOS <figref>94</figref> manages a number of services to execution one or more application-oriented tasks. Preferably contains the RTOS <figref>94</figref> a kernel of at execution Realtime multitasking is involved, including: task management, communication between tasks, memory management, message management, Input / output management and fault management. In vehicle-related Applications working the RTOS <figref>94</figref> with the application software by a multi-tasking scheme to vehicle-related requirements for information including responding data.

0022Of the controller <figref>30</figref> contains and a TCP / IP stack <figref>98</figref> for providing required for the Internet of relevant communication protocols. The controls TCP the river and the structure of data or other information including an operational communication with a web server <figref>102</figref>, The IP is for the detection of the source and destination addresses in connection with the Ensuring reception at the right place and in charge for the exam the correctness of the the wireless link the received data packets. The TCP / IP stack<figref>98</figref> becomes first called when information from the controller <figref>30</figref> are received, and again, when information including data from the controller <figref>30</figref> at the phone interface <figref>94</figref> issuable. Preferably is the TCP / IP stack <figref>98</figref> a commercially available portable unit for an embedded system, a single-threaded stack to support multiple sockets including of the web server <figref>102</figref> connected socket provides. The web server <figref>102</figref> manages information-related requirements in HTTP format. These requirements relate to the corresponding Receiving or collecting of information and the corresponding transfer or enter information.

0023Of the webserver <figref>102</figref> Also relevant for the Internet commercial Product. The controller<figref>30</figref> further includes a data storage unit or a data storage <figref>106</figref> for the retrieval of information. The data memory <figref>106</figref> generally stores data generated have been and considers the handling of requests or orders expected to be useful will. This may be data resulting from the monitoring an in-vehicle device physical originate and / or data, the executable during execution software useful are what more for a requestor to provide operational information or data. The data in the data memory <figref>106</figref> preferably in HTML configured. With this configuration, the web server<figref>102</figref> on the data memory <figref>106</figref> access and configured this data for encapsulation or incorporation into the HTTP format for communication over the Internet <figref>68</figref> recall. In addition to communication with the data memory<figref>106</figref> is the Web <figref>102</figref> operatively with a CGI-bin program <figref>110</figref> connected. The CGI-bin program <figref>110</figref> serves as a link or gateway to a number of the program memory <figref>114</figref> stored normally short executable programs. This stored executable Software may include a number of vehicle-related applications. In general, this software is for processing, analysis or other treatment of the vehicle available Data useful including the treatment of data in real time, such. as such available Data to a caused in the vehicle transmission to a remote station be used. The following is a typical list of applications:<ul><li>(A) monitoring of vehicle locations and status;</li><li>(B) tracking of the vehicle transported cargo delivery;</li><li>(C) monitoring the state of the cargo in the vehicle, such as. for example, temperature of the cargo and examination the devices for the Maintain a desired Temperature;</li><li>(D) vehicle parameter monitoring for vehicle maintenance such. B. Examination of the engine condition on possible overheating and kilometers distance (Messradablesung);</li><li>(E) display of orders and / or shipping instructions; and</li><li>(F) communication of short messages between a user at the remote site and the Fabrzeugbediener;</li></ul>

0024Next the application software to be involved in these functions could, include in the program memory <figref>114</figref> stored short programs may and software for Safety and security such. B .: <ul><li>(A) monitoring the vital signs of a transported in the vehicle patients;</li><li>(B) provision of information, whether a patrol vehicle regularly at a base has reported;</li><li>(C) display of a key or alarm eventses as necessary breakdown assistance, threatening situation for vehicle or driver, unauthorized unlocking a vehicle door and / or triggering an automatic emergency call after an airbag deployment.</li></ul>

0025In usual Operation, the data storage <figref>106</figref> page information save, on the web server <figref>102</figref> can access. at Receiving a command or a request to this page information with current data or other information for transmission to a user at a remote site <figref>10</figref> are updated. For example, information page insertion or recording of data collected by the vehicle equipment data require. In a variation of this operation, all or substantially all page information after receiving a request on the page related generated information. In generating the page information can already in the data memory <figref>106</figref> uses stored data or alternatively data after receiving the request by the physical vehicle equipment be retrieved. In another related variation information or executable Software of the remote site to run as part of the treatment concomitant or future Request to Controller <figref>30</figref> be downloaded, the software in connection with the operation of the controller <figref>30</figref> saved Applets can run. This may or other variations it be appropriate the memory in the controller <figref>30</figref> at low levels keep to the requirements for vehicle costs and not to exceed space.

0026In a related execution are the appropriate information or executable software already in the controller <figref>30</figref> included and part of short programs, on the CGI-bin program <figref>110</figref> be accessed can.

0027furthermore be based <figref idrefs="S27">2</figref> the vehicle equipment <figref>50</figref> detailed explained.

0028Each the vehicle equipment <figref>50a</figref>-<figref>50n</figref> can Information such. As data received, transmitted information, or information both receive and transmit. In general, the vehicle equipment <figref>50</figref> a Variety of monitoring, Acquisition, input or other information relevant for communication devices include. In conjunction with the above-described short executable Programs in or for the controller <figref>30</figref> possibly available are able the vehicle equipment <figref>50</figref> sensors, Converter or other instruments for delivering or receiving exhibit information. Just for example, could the vehicle equipment <figref>50a</figref>-<figref>50n</figref> one or more of the systems include: GPS (Global Positioning System), positioning sensors, fax machine, PDS (Personal Digital Assistant), Laptop, printer, monitor, modem, CD-ROM device, storage device, sensors for monitoring medical condition, sensors for monitoring the vehicle state, Sensors for monitoring the vehicle cargo, airbag sensors and general alarm sensors to display the unauthorized unlocking of the vehicle or a Breaking into the vehicle.

0029to Provide the necessary communication protocol between the controller <figref>30</figref> and vehicle equipment <figref>50a</figref>-<figref>50n</figref> consists another standardized network communication link, which from the first standardized network communication link such the Internet <figref>68</figref> differs. This more standardized Network communication link is responsible for the management of the information exchange functions in connection with the transmission and receiving information relative to the vehicle devices <figref>50</figref>, In a preferred embodiment, is this more standardized network develops at an earlier time will have and in general and in a number of car models used. This communication network is a controller Area Network (CAN) <figref>124</figref> defined. The CAN<figref>124</figref> is Although earlier generally in connection with the operation of motor vehicle electronics as motor control elements, sensors, lighting, electrical Window regulators, etc. have been used, but the present invention allows the use of CAN <figref>124</figref> together with a plurality contained by others in the vehicle and also already above mentioned Devices. A system that the on-vehicle processing capability along with a number of peripheral devices by means of communication via a common bus utilized, is in the <patcit><text>US Pat. No. 5,479,479</text></patcit>. issued on December 26, 1995 under the title "Method and Apparatus for transmission of signal and Receiving Having Digital Information Using Air Link "explains the the same applicant has been allocated, of the present application filed.

0030General , the CAN <figref>124</figref> by definition, an object layer and a Transport layer having a CAN controller <figref>122</figref> form, and a physical layer. The object layer is responsible for message filtering and message status treatment. The transport layer is responsible for error limit, Error detection and signaling, message validation, confirmation, Bus access conflicts, arbitration between information, news framing and transmission rate and Clocking. The physical layer is the transmission medium itself as well the signal level and the bit representations transmitted therein will. The transmission medium is essentially a multi-wire bus <figref>126</figref>Whose electrical Conductor with each of the CAN <figref>124</figref> integrated vehicle equipment <figref>50</figref> electric are connected. By operative connection of the CAN bus<figref>126</figref> With each vehicle unit <figref>50a</figref>-<figref>50n</figref> heard every this vehicle equipment operatively to a CAN interface. In one embodiment, each of the CAN interfaces according to a daisy chain Part of the configuration of the bus <figref>126</figref>, For connection to CAN <figref>124</figref> has the controller <figref>30</figref> also device drivers <figref>128</figref>. which required the Two-way communication between the CAN <figref>124</figref> and the controller <figref>30</figref> manufacture. processor<figref>90</figref> can z. B. data or other information of the vehicle equipment <figref>50a</figref>-<figref>50n</figref> by means of the device driver <figref>128</figref> receive, wherein the information by the processor <figref>90</figref> z. B. also to Storing in the data memory <figref>106</figref> for subsequent access and the subsequent transfer to one location <figref>10</figref> can be used.

0031Out <figref idrefs="S27">2</figref> results Also, that information without the cellular telephone <figref>80</figref> at transfer the system can be. A direct communication port <figref>144</figref> just then expedient if neither a cellular <figref>80</figref> yet another radio in the vehicle available. In this case, the information by means of another device or other devices that transmit in the vehicle. The car radio receives z. B. a transfer by means of a subcarrier signal, the Information includes that for the direct communication with the terminal <figref>144</figref> associated hardware useful are and be understood by it. The connecting<figref>144</figref> supplied data stream is previously accessed or decoded information in one with the connection <figref>144</figref> provide compatible format. Vice versa can connect <figref>144</figref> information-carrying output signals and in turn by means of the vehicle radio transferred outside will.

0032Next over CAN <figref>124</figref> communicating vehicle equipment <figref>50</figref> can further peripherals directly instead of via CAN <figref>124</figref> with the controller <figref>30</figref> get connected. For example, a PCMCIA (Personal Computer Memory Card Interface Association-) unit <figref>148</figref> electric with the device driver module <figref>128</figref> connected. The unit <figref>148</figref> a memory device with a floppy disk drive for storing desired Information or data included. Another such unit<figref>148</figref> can a modem to provide a communication capability directly between the controller <figref>30</figref> and another device or a other unit in the vehicle included.

0033The Description has been based on an embodiment in which the vehicle or the controller <figref>30</figref> having an address which the Internet <figref>68</figref> in connection with the transmission of information uses the vehicle. In another embodiment, each of the vehicle equipment<figref>50a</figref>-<figref>50n</figref> his own IP address or name. A user at a remote site, the information regarding a particular vehicle device <figref>50a</figref>-<figref>50n</figref> transfer want or received, uses the IP address or name of the vehicle unit as to the information transfer in terms of the respective vehicle device <figref>50</figref> to cause. In this case, the controllers are<figref>30</figref> and be operation for a user transparent at a remote site substantially, and each vehicle unit <figref>50</figref> appear or reacts like a real TCP / IP device. An example for an operation in accordance with this execution could on a vehicle device <figref>50</figref> as z. B. a CD-ROM unit relate. Specifically explained, users or authorized users of the CD-ROM device assigns an IP address for this Device, which receive from the vehicle containing the CD-ROM unit, is. The controller<figref>30</figref> recognizes that IP address and can the required connection to the CD-ROM unit through the CAN <figref>124</figref> manufacture. As a possible Variation or amendment to this mode, the controller <figref>30</figref> one with this IP address linked Applet included. Once the controller<figref>30</figref> the IP address recognizes the CD-ROM unit, it transmits the applet the Internet <figref>68</figref> for users, which is the browser <figref>72</figref> Will be received. The browser <figref>72</figref> use the applet for a screen by means of the computer terminal <figref>60</figref>, The screen display may z. As buttons, showing the Controls the CD-ROM unit representing that the user "click" can prevent certain make operating steps on the CD-ROM unit.

0034In other relevant Operating procedures, the controller <figref>30</figref> effort to receiving an HTTP request from the web server <figref>102</figref> react and the current status or condition of the vehicle equipment <figref>50</figref> Show. As already mentioned could For example, if all vehicle working properly and Data supply, an HTML page with one or more applets downloaded are loaded to the data from the controller <figref>30</figref> work off allow. However, when one or more vehicle devices do not provide accurate data could the decision falls, content or number of normally in modifying compound with exact data to be downloaded applets. This reduces transfer size and time, leading to a reduction in costs for the wireless transmission leads, particularly if it is a substantial amount of data, a large number of vehicles and / or an expected transmission on a very regular basis concerns. Furthermore, could, even, for example, the controller <figref>30</figref> informations including use data from a group of vehicle devices that one in a to pass page embedded applet are. In one case,where not one or more vehicle devices properly or at all not work, kindness and fluctuate reliability the information generated by the embedded application. So would it be useful, when the presentation of this information will be dynamically changed could. Ie., The representation should reflect accurate data and the controller set in these situations to be able to, what information or data are to be presented.

0035In yet another method of operation, the controller <figref>30</figref> informations by one or more notifications to one or more stations provide, as soon as a particular event or a certain condition occurs, such. as according to one of onset of the event or condition elapsed predetermined time interval. In one embodiment, selects a operatively connected to the web server <figref>102</figref> related Worldwide Web browser events or states in which the predetermined Actions by the web server <figref>102</figref> be made. For example, a user request a notification when the vehicle a achieved certain location when a sensor in a vehicle Value relative to a predetermined threshold and if measures other specified events or conditions occur. requirements a notification to a worldwide web-browser interface means "Show formulated and click " are and alerts in a Web page or frame on other suitable user-specified manner appear. The user could also set in the request that notifications to third parties by e-mail or HTTP / HTML messages are to be sent. Such techniques notifications on a list of destinations in a range suitable for each recipient transmitted electronic format will.

0036Based on <figref idrefs="S28">3</figref> becomes the operation of the present invention further in conjunction with a flow chart illustrates, the steps of transmitting and reception of information between a computer terminal <figref>60</figref> and a vehicle of interest shows. Specifically: The users are at block <figref>200</figref> a message on the computer terminal <figref>60</figref> on. The message contains at least one IP address and a request for information, the question of the vehicle available are. The host message at block<figref>204</figref> about the with the computer terminal <figref>60</figref> associated modem <figref>64</figref> by means of the browser <figref>72</figref> transfer, them according to the IP address to send or route. At block<figref>208</figref> is the Internet <figref>68</figref> for the purpose of Transport Message accessed. As part of the communication is at block <figref>212</figref> the remote CDPD modem <figref>76</figref> used, the data message to package so that it properly over the transmit radio link can be. At block<figref>216</figref> the CDPD transmitted Message from the cellular telephone <figref>80</figref> received or another transmitting / receiving device and its output at block <figref>220</figref> to controller <figref>30</figref> With the TCP / IP stack <figref>98</figref> switched through, after the news of the vehicle-based CDPD network modem <figref>82</figref> demodulates has been. The IP checks the accuracy of the identified address and other information in the message. The TCP coordinates the flow of news and preparing them in block <figref>224</figref> for transmission to the HTTP web server <figref>102</figref> in front. The RTOS from <figref>94</figref>/Processor <figref>90</figref> Waste and process controlled webserver <figref>102</figref> provides the information-related requirements in HTTP format. In one example, the message contains a request with respect to vehicle information of the engine and / or the operation or state of other vehicle components. In an application could z. B. the requested vehicle states of data are determined, which means executable Software or a program memory <figref>114</figref> saved be processed or analyzed program. In this case, a rating based on the message request at block <figref>228</figref> at the CGI-bin program <figref>110</figref> forwarded. This compound allows selecting the desired Program and its execution under the processing / control of processor <figref>90</figref>/ RTOS <figref>94</figref>, During the performance can it be necessary to previously stored information, including data from the data memory <figref>106</figref> retrieve. In addition, or alternatively, are possibly retrieve current or other data that is determined by a vehicle device themselves available are. This condition of the processor<figref>90</figref>/ RTOS <figref>94</figref> these Information Block <figref>232</figref> by the CAN controller unit <figref>122</figref> on the CAN bus <figref>126</figref>, The CAN protocol is at block<figref>236</figref> for the request and obtaining the data from the selected vehicle equipment used. processor <figref>90</figref> used by the CAN <figref>124</figref> obtained Data in connection with the embodiment the selected Program. After the requested data on the states of the Vehicle components either through processing or by one or more vehicle devices <figref>50</figref> or have been obtained in both ways, they can then, according to a execution be included in the side information. Parts of the page information could in the data store <figref>106</figref> are stored, wherein the obtained Data are inserted into the corresponding parts of the page. Thereafter, the page information from web servers are <figref>102</figref> for their transmission prepared in HTTP format. The TCP / IP stack <figref>98</figref> is involved in the control of the transmission this page information, as well as in examining the destination address. The page information be over the cellular <figref>80</figref> to the requesting computer terminal <figref>60</figref> transfer, while for transmission over the CDPD network by means of the vehicle-based CDPD network modem <figref>82</figref> for transmission over the Internet <figref>68</figref> be packaged. The side information can then on the display unit of the computer terminal <figref>60</figref> illustrated will.

0037operating variations with regard to one or more alarm conditions arise when a particular vehicle device <figref>50</figref> on Alarm event recognizes or is affected by it, and this over the CAN <figref>124</figref> to the processor <figref>90</figref> by means of the device driver <figref>128</figref> reported is. processor<figref>90</figref> and the TCP / IP stack work together to an indicative of this alarm condition signal over the cellular telephone <figref>80</figref> without using the Webserver <figref>102</figref> transferred to. The alarm condition indicating signal is properly informed about the Internet <figref>68</figref> directed to a predetermined IP address. In this case, the processor <figref>90</figref> to delay or interruption of a currently ongoing processing of the controller <figref>30</figref> directed Request execute a corresponding interrupt routine, thereby the detected alarm condition can be processed. Thereafter, the processor <figref>90</figref> processing the interruption before continue existing requirement. In addition, the controller<figref>30</figref> on multiple simultaneous requirements of different users to party devices respond. processor<figref>90</figref> and the RTOS <figref>94</figref> work together on the co-ordinated execution of several Tasks resulting from requests from multiple users.

0038The above explanations machine operation have dealt primarily with operations in which the transfer information from a remote computer terminal <figref>60</figref> been led is. Reference to the flowchart in<figref idrefs="S29">4</figref> refers a further respective Description of the operation of the present invention to a case, in which information on the initiative of the vehicle-based controller <figref>30</figref> transfer will. In this operation, data or other information of one or more vehicle devices <figref>50a</figref>-<figref>50n</figref> about the Radio link to one or more remote stations <figref>10a</figref>-<figref>10n</figref> on a predetermined or selectable time base provided. Z. B. could each vehicle of a fleet's location regularly to a remote station <figref>10</figref> Report to have. In the<figref idrefs="S29">4</figref> shown Steps will be explained below on the basis of such an example. at block <figref>300</figref> are vehicle position data from a vehicle device <figref>50</figref>. possibly a GPS receiver, available. According to a requested or regular input scheme these vehicle data at block <figref>304</figref> on the CAN bus <figref>126</figref> transfer. The CAN controller <figref>122</figref> at block <figref>308</figref> for controlling the reception and the transmission this data to the controller <figref>30</figref> responsible. The over the radio link according to the predetermined to be transmitted or definable process Vehicle data at block <figref>312</figref> by the controller <figref>30</figref> correspondingly processed, analyzed or otherwise treated. In one embodiment run the vehicle device data such. as non-GPS data the web server <figref>102</figref>But via another communication such. as email. In any case, the controller initiates<figref>30</figref> at block <figref>316</figref> the vehicle position data to the cellular phone Next, the vehicle-based one Wireless communications protocol modem <figref>20</figref> as the CDPD network modem <figref>82</figref> having. At block<figref>320</figref> will the vehicle position data formatted properly and by the cellular telephone over the radio link received. At the Receiving this data the radio link gathers at block <figref>324</figref> a remote wireless communications protocol modem <figref>16</figref> as the CDPD network modem <figref>76</figref> this data and forwards then at block <figref>330</figref> to the Internet <figref>68</figref>, The wished computer terminal <figref>60</figref> receives the vehicle position data from the Internet <figref>68</figref> at block <figref>334</figref>, According to the desired versions can this data from the computer terminal <figref>60</figref> continue processed at the display unit to predetermined manner be represented or otherwise treated to the received use data as desired to. In a related Variation of this embodiment , the computer terminal <figref>60</figref> after the processing of the data, take whatever actions by Information on the vehicle for adjusting or otherwise influencing the vehicle device transmits that the data for the analysis has come. Ie., It is because of the computer terminal<figref>60</figref> received and analyzed data made a decision as to whether a desired input or feedback shall be made in real-time on this board equipment.

0039The above explanations served the description and illustration of the invention. furthermore a description should not the invention illustrated herein by limited form. Consequently, within the possibilities and knowledge the relevant Technology conducted Variations and modifications, the above explanations comply, to the extent of the present invention contain. Further to the above explained versions the best known way of carrying out the invention explain and allow professionals The invention in this or other embodiments and with the various due to specific applications or fields of application modifications to use. It is assumed that the appended claims be interpreted in the sense that alternative embodiments are included in the possible by the prior art circumference.