Monitoring apparatus for a vehicle and/or a premises

US 6,542,077 B2
Filed: 08/20/2001
Issued: 04/01/2003
Est. Priority Date: 06/08/1993
Status: Expired due to Term

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1. A monitoring apparatus, comprising:

a first processing device, wherein the first processing device at least one of monitors and detects an event regarding at least one of a vehicle and at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance, of the vehicle, wherein the first processing device is located at the vehicle, and further wherein the event is a detection of a state of disrepair of the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance, wherein the first processing device at least one of generates a first signal and transmits a first signal to a second processing device, wherein the first signal contains information regarding the event, and further wherein the second processing device is located at a location which is remote from the vehicle, wherein the second processing device automatically receives the first signal from the first processing device, and further wherein the second processing device at least one of generates a second signal and transmits a second signal to a communication device associated with an individual, wherein the communication device is located remote from the second processing device, and further wherein the communication device automatically receives the second signal from the second processing device, and further wherein the communication device generates a third signal, wherein the third signal provides information regarding the event.

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Abstract

A monitoring apparatus for a vehicle or a premises, including a monitoring device for monitoring operation, system status, equipment system status, or activity, or a device for detecting a state of disrepair of a system or equipment system. The monitoring device or device is located at the vehicle or premises. The monitoring device or device transmits data to a first processing device located remote from the vehicle or premises. The data is received by the first processing device. The first processing device is capable of transmitting the data to a second processing device located remote from the vehicle or premises and remote from the first processing device. The second processing device is capable of receiving the data. The data can include operational data and video information, or information regarding a state of disrepair of the system or equipment system.

Citations

70 Claims

1. A monitoring apparatus, comprising:
- a first processing device, wherein the first processing device at least one of monitors and detects an event regarding at least one of a vehicle and at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance, of the vehicle, wherein the first processing device is located at the vehicle, and further wherein the event is a detection of a state of disrepair of the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance, wherein the first processing device at least one of generates a first signal and transmits a first signal to a second processing device, wherein the first signal contains information regarding the event, and further wherein the second processing device is located at a location which is remote from the vehicle, wherein the second processing device automatically receives the first signal from the first processing device, and further wherein the second processing device at least one of generates a second signal and transmits a second signal to a communication device associated with an individual, wherein the communication device is located remote from the second processing device, and further wherein the communication device automatically receives the second signal from the second processing device, and further wherein the communication device generates a third signal, wherein the third signal provides information regarding the event.
- View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21)
- - 2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance, is at least one of a siren, an alarm, a horn, a light system, head lights, tail lights, flashers, a power door lock system, a hood locking system, a mechanical hood locking system, an anti-theft system, a vehicle recovery system or device, a homing device or system, a tracking device or system, video recording equipment, photographing equipment, a video recording device, a camera, a still picture camera, audio recording equipment, an audio recording device, a microphone, a tape recorder, an intercom system or device, a video conferencing device or equipment, a two-way radio, a radio, a television, an entertainment device, a navigational device, navigational equipment, fire extinguishing equipment, a radar device, radar equipment, emergency or distress signal equipment, a refrigerator, a stove, an air conditioner, an oven, a microwave oven, a lighting system, an electrical or electronically controlled dead bolt locking device for use on at least one of a door, a window, a hood, and a trunk, a wheel locking device or mechanism, a brake locking device or mechanism, hydraulic equipment, pneumatic equipment, a winch, a loading mechanism, and unloading mechanism, a cutting mechanism, a bailing mechanism, a gun, a weapon system, a self-defense system, an electronic warfare system, a battery, a fuel cell, a window which turns opaque or darker depending upon interior lighting, and a monitoring device for at least one of reading and monitoring at least one of a status and a condition of at least one of a fuel supply, a water or coolant supply, an electrical generator or alternator operation, a battery charge level, an engine temperature level, and a vehicle operation, and further wherein the vehicle is at least one of a motor vehicle, an automobile, a truck, a bus, a school bus, a train, a subway train, a mass transportation vehicle, a tractor trailer, a commercial vehicle, a military vehicle, and an unmanned vehicle.
  - 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the communication device is at least one of a stationary device, a hand-held device, a mobile device, a telephone, a digital telephone, a cordless telephone, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a computer, a personal computer, a personal digital assistant, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal communications device, a personal communications services device, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a beeper, and a pager.
  - 4. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the first processing device transmits a first diagnostic signal to the second processing device, and further wherein the second processing device transmits a second diagnostic signal to the communication device in response to the first diagnostic signal, and further wherein the communication device generates a third diagnostic signal in response to the second diagnostic signal, wherein the third diagnostic signal contains diagnostic data or information regarding the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance.
  - 5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the communication device transmits a first repair signal to the second processing device, wherein the second processing device receives the first repair signal, and further wherein the second processing device generates a second repair signal in response to the first repair signal, wherein the second processing device transmits the second repair signal to the first processing device, and further wherein the first processing device receives the second repair signal and effects a repair of the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance, by utilizing information contained in the second repair signal.
  - 6. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus utilizes at least one of an intelligent agent, a software agent, and a mobile agent.
  - 7. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:
8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus is programmed to become activated or de-activated automatically upon an occurrence or lack of an occurrence of a pre-defined event, wherein the pre-defined event is at least one of a theft of the vehicle and a malfunction, and further wherein the apparatus is programmed to transmit a message containing information regarding the at least one of a theft of the vehicle and a malfunction to the communication device associated with the vehicle at least one of user, operator, owner, occupant, and authorized individual, and further wherein the message is at least one of a pager message, a facsimile message, a voice message, a voice mail message, an electronic message, and an answering service message.
9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus performs a systematic check of at least one of a status and a state of the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, a vehicle equipment system, and a vehicle appliance, and further wherein the apparatus provides information relating to the at least one of a status and a state of the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, a vehicle equipment system, and a vehicle appliance.
10. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vehicle is at least one of construction equipment, a moveable industrial structure, a work platform, mining equipment, drilling equipment, a drilling platform, farm equipment, and a motor or mobile home.
11. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a boat, a marine vessel, a marine vehicle, a motor boat, a sailboat, a ship, a cruise ship, a commercial boat, a military boat, an unmanned boat, and a submarine, and further wherein the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance, is at least one of a siren, an alarm, a horn, a light system, head lights, tail lights, flashers, a power door or hatch locking system, an electronic or electrical dead-bolt locking device, an engine compartment locking device, an electrical or mechanical locking device, an anti-theft system, a recovery system or device, a homing system, a tracking system, a two-way radio, a radio, a navigational device, navigational equipment, fire extinguishing equipment, a pumping device for pumping water, a radar device, radar equipment, emergency or distress signal equipment, a sonar device, sonar equipment, a refrigerator, a stove, an air conditioner, an oven, a microwave oven, a lighting system, a television, an entertainment device, video recording equipment, photographing equipment, a video recording device, a camera, a still picture camera, audio recording equipment, an audio recording device, a microphone, a tape recorder, an intercom system or device, a video conferencing device or equipment, a gun, a weapon system, a self-defense system, an electronic warfare system, a battery, a fuel cell, a window which turns opaque or darker depending upon interior lighting, hydraulic equipment, pneumatic equipment, a winch, and a monitoring device for at least one of reading and monitoring at least one of a status and a condition of at least one of a fuel supply, a water or coolant supply, an electrical generator or alternator operation, a battery charge level, an engine or motor temperature level, a marine control system, and a boat operation.
12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a boat, a marine vessel, a marine vehicle, a motor boat, a sailboat, a ship, a cruise ship, a commercial boat, a military boat, an unmanned boat, and a submarine, and further wherein the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance, is at least one of battery monitoring equipment, a fuel cell temperature measuring device, a fuel cell by-product measuring device, a fuel cell output measuring device, a boat rudder, a rudder control or monitoring device, a depth sounding device, a depth sounding control or monitoring device, a navigation system, a navigation control or monitoring system, an automatic pilot, a radar system, a sonar system, at least one of a loading mechanism and an unloading mechanism, a boat data recorder control or monitoring device, a boat cockpit voice recorder, a boat cockpit voice recorder control or monitoring device, an emergency oxygen control or monitoring device, an emergency oxygen deployment detection device, an air bag deployment device, an air bag deployment detection device, a boat dashboard or control console display device, a gyroscope, a gyrocompass, a boat data recorder, a boat operation data recorder, a boat command computer, a wear or usage indicator, a wear or usage detection device, an automatic control device for controlling or monitoring boat movement or motion, a boat operation data monitoring device, and a monitoring device for at least one of reading and monitoring at least one a status and a condition of at least one of a boat fuel supply, a water or coolant supply, an electrical generator or alternator operation, a battery charge level, a fuel cell electrical power output, a fuel cell fuel supply level, a fuel cell operating temperature, a fuel cell by-product output level, an engine or motor temperature level, a marine control system, boat operation, and an operating status of the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance.
13. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vehicle is at least one of an aircraft, an airplane, a jet, a helicopter, a glider, a spacecraft, a space shuttle, a satellite, an unmanned aircraft, a commercial aircraft, and a military aircraft, and further wherein the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance, is at least one of a siren, an alarm, a horn, a light system, head lights, tail lights, flashers, a power door or hatch locking system or device, a locking system, a mechanical locking system, an anti-theft system, a recovery system or device, a homing system, a tracking system, a two-way radio, a radio, a television, an entertainment device, landing gear, an interior pressurization system, a cabin pressurization control or monitoring system or device, a navigational device, navigational equipment, fire extinguishing equipment, a radar device, radar equipment, emergency or distress signal equipment, a sonar device, sonar equipment, a refrigerator, a stove, an air conditioner, an oven, a microwave oven, a lighting system, video recording equipment, photographing equipment, a video recording device, a camera, a still picture camera, audio recording equipment, an audio recording device, a microphone, a tape recorder, an intercom system or device, a video conferencing device or equipment, a gun, a weapon system, a self-defense system, an electronic warfare system, a battery, a fuel cell, a window which turns opaque or darker depending upon interior lighting, hydraulic equipment, pneumatic equipment, a winch, and a monitoring device for at least one of reading and monitoring at least one of a fuel supply, a water or coolant supply, an electrical generator or alternator operation, a battery charge level, an engine or motor temperature level, an airplane flight control system, and an airplane operation.
14. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vehicle is at least one of an aircraft, an airplane, a jet, a helicopter, a glider, a spacecraft, a space shuttle, a satellite, an unmanned aircraft, a commercial aircraft, and a military aircraft, and further wherein the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance, is at least one of battery monitoring equipment, a fuel cell temperature measuring device, a fuel cell by-product measuring device, a fuel cell output measuring device, an airplane aileron control or monitoring device, a rudder control or monitoring device, an horizontal stabilizer control or monitoring device, a vertical stabilizer control or monitoring device, an altimeter, an emergency landing parachute control or monitoring device, an emergency parachute deployment control device, an emergency parachute deployment detection device, a navigation system, a navigation control or monitoring system, an automatic pilot, a radar system, a flight data recorder, a flight data recorder control or monitoring device, a cockpit voice recorder, a cockpit voice recorder control or monitoring device, a wing flap control or monitoring device, an emergency oxygen control or monitoring device, an emergency oxygen deployment detection device, an air bag deployment device, an air bag deployment detection device, an airplane cockpit or control console display device, a gyroscope, a gyrocompass, an airplane data recorder, an airplane operation data recorder, airplane command computer, a wear or usage indicator, a wear or usage detection device, an automatic control device for controlling or monitoring an airplane system or device for at least one of airplane take-off, flight, normal cruising, automatic pilot cruising, landing, and airplane movement or motion, at least one of a loading mechanism and an unloading mechanism, an airplane operation data monitoring device, and a monitoring device for at least one of reading and monitoring at least one of an airplane fuel supply, a water or coolant supply, an electrical generator or alternator operation, a battery charge level, a fuel cell electrical power output, a fuel cell fuel supply level, a fuel cell operating temperature, a fuel cell by-product output level, an engine or motor temperature level, an airplane flight control system, an airplane operation, and an operating status of the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance.
15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a snowmobile, a jetski, a scooter, a motorcycle, a minibike, a go-cart, a moped, a hot air balloon, and an unmanned vehicle, and further wherein the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance, is at least one of a siren, an alarm, a horn, a light system, head lights, tail lights, flashers, a power locking system or device, a steering mechanism locking device, a locking device, a snowmobile track locking device, an anti-theft system, a snowmobile recovery system or device, a homing system, a tracking system, video recording equipment, a video recording device, a camera, audio recording equipment, an audio recording device, a microphone, a tape recorder, intercom equipment, a window which turns opaque or darker depending upon interior lighting, a gun, a weapon system, a self-defense system, an electronic warfare system, a battery, a fuel cell, a wheel or brake locking device or mechanism, hydraulic equipment, pneumatic equipment, a winch, and a monitoring device for at least one of reading and monitoring at least one of a snowmobile fuel supply, a water or coolant supply, an electrical generator or alternator operation, a battery charge level, an engine or motor temperature level, a snowmobile control system, and snowmobile operation.
16. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a snowmobile, a jetski, a scooter, a motorcycle, a minibike, a go-cart, a moped, a hot air balloon, and an unmanned vehicle, and further wherein the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance, is at least one of battery monitoring equipment, a fuel cell temperature measuring device, a fuel cell by-product measuring device, a fuel cell output measuring device, an air bag deployment device, an air bag deployment detection device, a dashboard display device, a gyroscope, a gyrocompass, a data recorder, an operation data recorder, a navigation system, a navigation control or monitoring system, an automatic pilot, a voice recorder, a voice recorder control or monitoring device, a control console display device, fire extinguishing equipment, a radar device, radar equipment, emergency or distress signal equipment, a refrigerator, a stove, an air conditioner, an oven, a microwave oven, lighting systems, a dead bolt locking device for use on at least one of a door, a window, a hood, and a trunk, a snowmobile command computer, a wear or usage indicator, a wear or usage detection device, an automatic control device for controlling or monitoring snowmobile movement or motion, and a snowmobile operation data monitoring device, and a monitoring device for at least one of reading and monitoring at least one of a snowmobile fuel supply, a water or coolant supply, an electrical generator or alternator operation, a battery charge level, a fuel cell electrical power output, a fuel cell fuel supply level, a fuel cell operating temperature, a fuel cell by-product output level, an engine or motor temperature level, a snowmobile control system, snowmobile operation, and operating status of the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance.
17. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance, is a system for detecting a failure in the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance, wherein the detecting system provides information regarding the failure.
18. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus detects at least one of a vehicle use, an unauthorized use of the vehicle, and a theft of the vehicle.
19. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the apparatus detects and reports a malfunction of the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance.
20. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising:
- at least one of a device and a component which detects at least one of a wear and a state of disrepair of the at least one of a device and a component, and further wherein the at least one of a device and a component generates a fourth signal containing information regarding the at least one of a wear and a state of disrepair, and further wherein the at least one of a device and a component transmits the fourth signal to the first processing device.
21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the first processing device generates a fifth signal and transmits the fifth signal to the second processing device, and further wherein the second processing device generates a sixth signal and transmits the sixth signal to the communication device, wherein the sixth signal contains information regarding the at least one of a wear and a state of disrepair.

22. A monitoring apparatus, comprising:
- a first processing device, wherein the first processing device at least one of monitors and detects an event regarding at least one of a premises and at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance, of the premises, wherein the first processing device is located at the premises, and further wherein the event is a detection of a state of disrepair of the at least one of the a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance, wherein the first processing device at least one of generates a first signal and transmits a first signal to a second processing device, wherein the first signal contains information regarding the event, and further wherein the second processing device is located at a location which is remote from the premises, wherein the second processing device automatically receives the first signal from the first processing device, and further wherein the second processing device at least one of generates a second signal and transmits a second signal to a communication device associated with an individual, wherein the communication device is located remote from the second processing device, and further wherein the communication device automatically receives the second signal from the second processing device, and further wherein the communication device generates a third signal, wherein the third signal provides information regarding the event.
- View Dependent Claims (23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42)
- - 23. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the communication device is at least one of a stationary device, a hand-held device, a mobile device, a telephone, a digital telephone, a cordless telephone, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a computer, a personal computer, a personal digital assistant, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal communications device, a personal communications services device, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a beeper, and a pager.
  - 24. The apparatus of claim 22, further comprising:
25. The apparatus of claim 24, wherein the first processing device generates a fifth signal and transmits the fifth signal to the second processing device, and further wherein the second processing device generates a sixth signal and transmits the sixth signal to the communication device, wherein the sixth signal contains information regarding the at least one of a wear and a state of disrepair.
26. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the first processing device transmits a first diagnostic signal to the second processing device, and further wherein the second processing device transmits a second diagnostic signal to the communication device in response to the first diagnostic signal, and further wherein the communication device generates a third diagnostic signal in response to the second diagnostic signal, wherein the third diagnostic signal contains diagnostic data or information regarding the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance.
27. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the apparatus utilizes at least one of an intelligent agent, a software agent, and a mobile agent.
28. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the premises is at least one of a mobile home, a mobile premises, and a mobile commercial premises, and wherein the apparatus further comprises:
- a positioning device, wherein the positioning device determines a position or location of the premises, and further wherein the positioning device further comprises;
  
  a global positioning device; and
  
  a database containing at least one of digital map data and digitized map data, wherein the positioning device is activated by the first processing device, and further wherein the positioning device determines the position or location of the premises in conjunction with the at least one of digital map data and digitized map data.
29. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the apparatus provides information regarding at least one of apparatus status, premises operation status, and status of the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance.
30. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance, is a system for detecting a failure in the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance, wherein the detecting system provides information regarding the failure.
31. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the apparatus is programmed to become activated or de-activated automatically upon an occurrence or lack of an occurrence of a pre-defined event, wherein the pre-defined event is at least one of a theft of the premises and a malfunction, and further wherein the apparatus is programmed to transmit a message containing information regarding the at least one of a theft of the premises and a malfunction to a communication device associated with the premises at least one of user, operator, owner, occupant, and authorized individual, and further wherein the message is at least one of a pager message, a facsimile message, a voice message, a voice mail message, an electronic message, and an answering service message.
32. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the apparatus performs a systematic check of at least one of a status and a state of the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance, and further wherein the apparatus provides information relating to the at least one of a status and a state of the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance.
33. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the first processing device detects at least one of a premises use, an unauthorized use of the premises, and a theft of the premises.
34. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the premises is at least one of a home, a residential premises, and a residential building, and further wherein the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance, is at least one of an anti-theft or burglary alarm system, a siren, an alarm, an exterior lighting system, an interior lighting system, a window which turns opaque or darker depending upon interior lighting, an electrical or electronically controlled locking device for at least one of a door and a window, an electrical or electronic dead-bolt locking system or device, an electrical or electronically controlled deadbolt locking device for use on at least one of a door and a window, a system for controlling an electrical circuit or system at least one of room-by-room, device-by-device, and appliance-by-appliance, a device for controlling a circuit controlled by at least one of a fuse and a circuit breaker, a device for at least one of controlling and monitoring at least one of a hot water heater, a garage door opener, a lawn sprinkler system, an electric fence or fencing, an in-ground or above-ground pool at least one of equipment, a filter, and a heater, a home central water valve, an individual room water valve, a home fire detector, and home fire extinguishment equipment, a power at least one of door and window at least one of closing, locking, and opening, equipment, fire extinguishing equipment, emergency or distress signal equipment, a television, a telephone, an entertainment device, a telephone answering machine, an alarm system, a VCR, a stove, a refrigerator, an oven, a microwave oven, a door bell, an individual light or lamp, a light system, an air conditioner, a blender, a toaster, a personal computer, a word processor, a stereo, a radio, video recording equipment, photographing equipment, a video recording device, a camera, audio recording equipment, an audio recording device, a microphone, a tape recorder, an intercom system or device, a video conferencing device or equipment, a battery, a fuel cell, battery monitoring equipment, a fuel cell temperature measuring device, a fuel cell by-product measuring device, a fuel cell output measuring device, a home or residential premises command computer, a wear or usage indicator or detection device for monitoring wear or usage of the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance, a system for detecting a failure in the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance, and for reporting such failure, an automatic control device for controlling or monitoring a home or residential premises at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance, hydraulic equipment, pneumatic equipment, a winch, at least one of a loading mechanism and an unloading mechanism, a cutting mechanism, and a bailing mechanism.
35. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the premises is at least one of a home, a residential premises, and a residential building, and further wherein the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance, is a monitoring device for at least one of reading and monitoring at least one of a status and a condition of at least one of a home fuel supply, a water supply, an electrical generator or alternator operation, a water usage, a heat or air conditioning usage, an electricity usage, at least one of a gas usage, an oil usage, and a fuel usage, a battery charge level, an electrical system charge level, a fuel cell electrical power output, a fuel cell fuel supply level, a fuel cell operating temperature, a fuel cell by-product output level, at least one of telephone usage and charges, an appliance usage, a home control system, a home operation, and at least one of an operating status and condition of the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance.
36. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the premises is at least one of a commercial premises, a commercial office, and a commercial building, and further wherein the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance, is at least one of a central electrical system, a central heating system, a central air conditioning system, a water system, and a thermostat system.
37. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the premises is at least one of a commercial premises, a commercial building, a commercial office, an industrial facility, a commercial structure, an industrial structure, a manufacturing facility, a drilling platform, a drilling rig, an oil drilling platform, an off-shore drilling platform, an off-shore drilling rig, a mining platform, an assembly facility, an assembly line facility, a mass production facility, and a production facility, and further wherein the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance, is at least one of an anti-theft or burglary alarm system, a siren or alarm, an exterior lighting system, an interior lighting system, a window which turns opaque or darker depending upon interior lighting, an electrical or electronically controlled locking device for at least one of a door and a window, an electrical or electronic dead-bolt locking device or system, an electrical or electronically controlled dead-bolt locking device for use on at least one of a door, a window, and an opening component, a system for controlling an electrical circuit at least one of room-by-room, device-by-device, and appliance-by-appliance, a device for controlling an electrical circuit controlled by at least one of a fuse and a circuit breaker, a device for at least one of controlling and monitoring at least one of a hot water heater, a garage door opener, a lawn sprinkler system, an electric fence or fencing, an in-ground or above-ground pool at least one of equipment, fountain equipment, a filter, and a heater, a fire detector, and fire extinguishment equipment, a power door or window at least one of closing, locking, and opening, equipment, television, a telephone, an entertainment device, a telephone answering machine, an alarm system, a VCR, a stove, an oven, a microwave oven, a refrigerator, an air conditioner, a door bell, an individual light or lamp, a lighting system, a blender, a toaster, a computer, a computer peripheral, a word processor, a stereo, a radio, a video recording device, a camera, a still picture camera, an audio recording device, a microphone, a tape recorder, an intercom system or device, a video conferencing device or equipment, a battery, a fuel cell, battery monitoring equipment, a fuel cell temperature measuring device, a fuel cell by-product measuring device, a fuel cell output measuring device, fire extinguishing equipment, emergency or distress signal equipment, a system for detecting a failure in the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance, a commercial premises command computer, a wear or usage indicator or detection device for monitoring at least one of wear or usage of the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance, and an automatic control device.
38. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the premises is at least one of a commercial premises, a commercial building, a commercial office, an industrial facility, a commercial structure, an industrial structure, a manufacturing facility, a drilling platform, a drilling rig, an oil drilling platform, an off-shore drilling platform, an off-shore drilling rig, a mining platform, an assembly facility, an assembly line facility, a mass production facility, and a production facility, and further wherein the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance, is a monitoring device for at least one of reading and monitoring at least one of a status and a condition of at least one of a fuel supply, a water supply, an electrical generator or alternator operation, a water usage, a heat or air conditioning usage, an electricity usage, at least one of gas usage, an oil usage, and a fuel usage, a battery charge level, a electrical system charge level, a fuel cell electrical power output, a fuel cell fuel supply level, a fuel cell operating temperature, a fuel cell by-product output level, at least one of a telephone usage and charges, at least one of premises equipment and appliance usage, a commercial office or premises control system, and status of the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance.
39. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance, is at least one of a central electrical system, a central heating system, a central air conditioning system, a water system, and a thermostat or environmental control system.
40. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the apparatus detects and reports a malfunction of the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance.
41. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the first processing device transmits a first diagnostic signal to the second processing device, and further wherein the second processing device transmits a second diagnostic signal to the communication device in response to the first diagnostic signal, and further wherein the communication device generates a third diagnostic signal in response to the second diagnostic signal, wherein the third diagnostic signal contains diagnostic data or information regarding the at least one of the a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance.
42. The apparatus of claim 22, wherein the communication device transmits a first repair signal to the second processing device, wherein the second processing device receives the first repair signal, and further wherein the second processing device generates a second repair signal in response to the first repair signal, wherein the second processing device transmits the second repair signal to the first processing device, and further wherein the first processing device receives the second repair signal and effects a repair of the at least one of a premises system, a premises equipment system, a premises component, a premises device, a premises equipment, and a premises appliance, by utilizing information contained in the second repair signal.

43. An apparatus for monitoring an operation of a vehicle, comprising:
- a vehicle operation monitoring device for monitoring at least one of a vehicle operation, a status of a vehicle system, a status of a vehicle equipment system, activity inside the vehicle, and activity outside the vehicle, wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device is located at the vehicle, wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device monitors an operation of at least one of a vehicle system and a vehicle equipment system, wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device receives monitored data regarding the operation of the at least one of a vehicle system and a vehicle equipment system, and further wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device transmits the monitored data to a first processing device, wherein the first processing device is located at a location remote from the vehicle, wherein the monitored data is received by the first processing device, and further wherein the first processing device is capable of transmitting the monitored data to a second processing device, wherein the second processing device is located at a location remote from the vehicle and remote from the first processing device, wherein the second processing device is capable of receiving the monitored data, wherein the monitored data includes vehicle operational data and video information obtained at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle.
- View Dependent Claims (44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61, 62, 63)
- - 44. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a motor vehicle, an automobile, a truck, a bus, a school bus, a train, a subway train, a mass transportation vehicle, a tractor trailer, a commercial vehicle, a military vehicle, and an unmanned vehicle, and further wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device monitors at least one of vehicle speed, a status of at least one of an ignition system, a fuel pump system, and a positioning system, a direction of travel, an attitude of travel, video at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle, audio at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle, activity inside the vehicle, and activity outside the vehicle.
  - 45. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device monitors an operation of at least one of a speedometer, a cruise control device, a gyroscope, a gyrocompass, a directional light device, a light system, a door lock system, an attitude measuring device, an ignition system, a braking system, an electronic system, a hydraulic system, a video recording device or camera, and an audio recording device or microphone.
  - 46. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the first processing device is at least one of a central office computer, a server computer, a central processing computer, and further wherein the second processing device is at least one of a stationary device, a hand-held device, a mobile device, a telephone, a digital telephone, a cordless telephone, a cellular telephone, a wireless telephone, a computer, a personal computer, a personal digital assistant, a television, an interactive television, a digital television, a personal communications device, a personal communications services device, a display telephone, a video telephone, a watch, a beeper, and a pager.
  - 47. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the monitored data is transmitted to the first processing device at least one of in real-time, live, and in a time-delayed manner.
  - 48. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the operation of the vehicle operation monitoring device is at least one of activated and controlled remotely via a control device located remote from the vehicle.
  - 49. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the apparatus is utilized to at least one of monitor vehicle operation, investigate a malfunction, diagnosis a malfunction or other problem, and to investigate a cause of an accident.
  - 50. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the apparatus is programmed to monitor vehicle operation data and to transmit the monitored data to the first processing device at least one of continuously, at certain times, and under certain conditions.
  - 51. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a boat, a marine vessel, a marine vehicle, a motor boat, a sailboat, a ship, a cruise ship, a commercial boat, a military boat, an unmanned boat, and a submarine, and further wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device monitors at least one of boat speed, an ignition system, a fuel pump system, a positioning system, a direction of travel, an attitude of travel, video at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle, audio at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle, activity inside the vehicle, and activity outside the vehicle.
  - 52. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a boat, a marine vessel, a marine vehicle, a motor boat, a sailboat, a ship, a cruise ship, a commercial boat, a military boat, an unmanned boat, and a submarine, and further wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device monitors an operation of at least one of a speedometer, a cruise control device, a rudder, a gyroscope, a gyrocompass, a directional light device, a light system, a door lock system, a depth sounding measurement device, an attitude measuring device, an ignition system, a braking system, an electronic system, a hydraulic system, a video recording device or camera, and an audio recording device or microphone.
  - 53. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the vehicle is at least one of an aircraft, an airplane, a jet, a helicopter, a glider, a spacecraft, a space shuttle, a satellite, an unmanned aircraft, a commercial aircraft, and a military aircraft, and further wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device monitors at least one of airplane speed, an ignition system, a fuel pump system, a positioning system, a direction of travel, an attitude of travel, video at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle, audio at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle, activity inside the vehicle, and activity outside the vehicle.
  - 54. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the vehicle is at least one of an aircraft, an airplane, a jet, a helicopter, a glider, a spacecraft, a space shuttle, a satellite, an unmanned aircraft, a commercial aircraft, and a military aircraft, wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device monitors an operation of at least one of a speedometer, a cruise control device, an automatic pilot, a control surface, a horizontal stabilizer, a vertical stabilizer, a cabin pressure control device, landing gear, an aileron, an altimeter, a navigation system, an emergency parachute, emergency landing equipment, emergency evacuation equipment, a data display, a braking system, a wing flap, a rudder, a gyroscope, a gyrocompass, a directional light device, a light system, a door lock system, a depth sounding measurement device, an attitude measuring device, an ignition system, an electronic system, a hydraulic system, a video recording device or camera, and an audio recording device or microphone.
  - 55. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a snowmobile, a jetski, a scooter, a motorcycle, a minibike, a go-cart, a hot-air balloon, a moped, and an unmanned vehicle, and further wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device monitors at least one of vehicle speed, an ignition system, a fuel pump system, a positioning system, a direction of travel, an attitude of travel, video at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle, audio at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle, activity inside the vehicle, and activity outside the vehicle.
  - 56. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a snowmobile, a jetski, a scooter, a motorcycle, a minibike, a go-cart, a hot-air balloon, a moped, and an unmanned vehicle, wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device monitors an operation of at least one of a vehicle command computer, a speedometer, a cruise control device, a gyroscope, a gyrocompass, a directional light device, a light system, a door lock system, an attitude measuring device, an ignition system, a braking system, an electronic system(s), a hydraulic system, a video recording device or camera, and an audio recording device or microphone.
  - 57. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the apparatus is at least one of a vehicle data recorder, a boat data recorder and an aircraft flight data recorder.
  - 58. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device is programmed to transmit the monitored data to the first processing device.
  - 59. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the monitored data further includes at least one of operational data regarding the at least one of a vehicle system and a vehicle equipment system and audio information obtained at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle.
  - 60. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a motor vehicle, an automobile, a truck, a bus, a school bus, a train, a subway train, a mass transportation vehicle, a tractor trailer, a commercial vehicle, a military vehicle, and an unmanned vehicle, and further wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device monitors at least one of a siren, an alarm, a horn, a light system, head lights, tail lights, flashers, a power door lock system, a hood locking system, a mechanical hood locking system, an anti-theft system, a vehicle recovery system or device, a homing device or system, a tracking device or system, video recording equipment, photographing equipment, a video recording device, a camera, a still picture camera, audio recording equipment, an audio recording device, a microphone, a tape recorder, an intercom system or device, a video conferencing device or equipment, a two-way radio, a radio, a television, an entertainment device, a navigational device, navigational equipment, fire extinguishing equipment, a radar device, radar equipment, emergency or distress signal equipment, a refrigerator, a stove, an air conditioner, an oven, a microwave oven, a lighting system, an electrical or electronically controlled dead bolt locking device for use on at least one of a door, a window, a hood, and a trunk, a wheel locking device or mechanism, a brake locking device or mechanism, hydraulic equipment, pneumatic equipment, a winch, a loading mechanism, and unloading mechanism, a cutting mechanism, a bailing mechanism, a gun, a weapon system, a self-defense system, an electronic warfare system, a battery, a fuel cell, a window which turns opaque or darker depending upon interior lighting, and a monitoring device for at least one of reading and monitoring at least one of a status and a condition of at least one of a fuel supply, a water or coolant supply, an electrical generator or alternator operation, a battery charge level, an engine temperature level, and a vehicle operation.
  - 61. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a boat, a marine vessel, a marine vehicle, a motor boat, a sailboat, a ship, a cruise ship, a commercial boat, a military boat, an unmanned boat, and a submarine, and further wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device monitors at least one of a siren, an alarm, a horn, a light system, head lights, tail lights, flashers, a power door or hatch locking system, an electronic or electrical dead-bolt locking device, an engine compartment locking device, an electrical or mechanical locking device, an anti-theft system, a recovery system or device, a homing system, a tracking system, a two-way radio, a radio, a navigational device, navigational equipment, fire extinguishing equipment, a pumping device for pumping water, a radar device, radar equipment, emergency or distress signal equipment, a sonar device, sonar equipment, a refrigerator, a stove, an air conditioner, an oven, a microwave oven, a lighting system, a television, an entertainment device, video recording equipment, photographing equipment, a video recording device, a camera, a still picture camera, audio recording equipment, an audio recording device, a microphone, a tape recorder, an intercom system or device, a video conferencing device or equipment, a gun, a weapon system, a self-defense system, an electronic warfare system, a battery, a fuel cell, a window which turns opaque or darker depending upon interior lighting, hydraulic equipment, pneumatic equipment, a winch, a marine control system, a boat operation, battery monitoring equipment, a fuel cell temperature measuring device, a fuel cell by-product measuring device, a fuel cell output measuring device, a boat rudder, a rudder control or monitoring device, a depth sounding device, a depth sounding control or monitoring device, a navigation system, a navigation control or monitoring system, an automatic pilot, a radar system, a sonar system, at least one of a loading mechanism and an unloading mechanism, a boat data recorder control or monitoring device, a boat cockpit voice recorder, a boat cockpit voice recorder control or monitoring device, an emergency oxygen control or monitoring device, an emergency oxygen deployment detection device, an air bag deployment device, an air bag deployment detection device, a boat dashboard or control console display device, a gyroscope, a gyrocompass, a boat data recorder, a boat operation data recorder, a boat command computer, a wear or usage indicator, a wear or usage detection device, an automatic control device for controlling or monitoring boat movement or motion, a boat operation data monitoring device, and a monitoring device for at least one of reading and monitoring at least one a status and a condition of at least one of a fuel supply, a water or coolant supply, an electrical generator or alternator operation, a battery charge level, a fuel cell electrical power output, a fuel cell fuel supply level, a fuel cell operating temperature, a fuel cell by-product output level, an engine or motor temperature level, a marine control system, boat operation, and an operating status of the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance.
  - 62. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the vehicle is at least one of an aircraft, an airplane, a jet, a helicopter, a glider, a spacecraft, a space shuttle, a satellite, an unmanned aircraft, a commercial aircraft, and a military aircraft, and further wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device monitors at least one of a siren, an alarm, a horn, a light system, head lights, tail lights, flashers, a power door or hatch locking system or device, a locking system, a mechanical locking system, an anti-theft system, a recovery system or device, a homing system, a tracking system, a two-way radio, a radio, a television, an entertainment device, landing gear, an interior pressurization system, a cabin pressurization control or monitoring system or device, a navigational device, navigational equipment, fire extinguishing equipment, a radar device, radar equipment, emergency or distress signal equipment, a sonar device, sonar equipment, a refrigerator, a stove, an air conditioner, an oven, a microwave oven, a lighting system, video recording equipment, photographing equipment, a video recording device, a camera, a still picture camera, audio recording equipment, an audio recording device, a microphone, a tape recorder, an intercom system or device, a video conferencing device or equipment, a gun, a weapon system, a self-defense system, an electronic warfare system, a battery, a fuel cell, a window which turns opaque or darker depending upon interior lighting, hydraulic equipment, pneumatic equipment, a winch, an airplane flight control system, an airplane operation, battery monitoring equipment, a fuel cell temperature measuring device, a fuel cell by-product measuring device, a fuel cell output measuring device, an airplane aileron control or monitoring device, a rudder control or monitoring device, an horizontal stabilizer control or monitoring device, a vertical stabilizer control or monitoring device, an altimeter, an emergency landing parachute control or monitoring device, an emergency parachute deployment control device, an emergency parachute deployment detection device, a navigation system, a navigation control or monitoring system, an automatic pilot, a radar system, a flight data recorder, a flight data recorder control or monitoring device, a cockpit voice recorder, a cockpit voice recorder control or monitoring device, a wing flap control or monitoring device, an emergency oxygen control or monitoring device, an emergency oxygen deployment detection device, an air bag deployment device, an air bag deployment detection device, an airplane cockpit or control console display device, a gyroscope, a gyrocompass, an airplane data recorder, an airplane operation data recorder, airplane command computer, a wear or usage indicator, a wear or usage detection device, an automatic control device for controlling or monitoring an airplane system or device for at least one of airplane take-off, flight, normal cruising, automatic pilot cruising, landing, and airplane movement or motion, at least one of a loading mechanism and an unloading mechanism, an airplane operation data monitoring device, and a monitoring device for at least one of reading and monitoring at least one of a fuel supply, a water or coolant supply, an electrical generator or alternator operation, a battery charge level, a fuel cell electrical power output, a fuel cell fuel supply level, a fuel cell operating temperature, a fuel cell by-product output level, an engine or motor temperature level, an airplane flight control system, an airplane operation, and an operating status of the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance.
  - 63. The apparatus of claim 43, wherein the vehicle is at least one of a snowmobile, a jetski, a scooter, a motorcycle, a minibike, a go-cart, a hot-air balloon, a moped, and an unmanned vehicle, and further wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device monitors at least one of a siren, an alarm, a horn, a light system, head lights, tail lights, flashers, a power locking system or device, a steering mechanism locking device, a locking device, a snowmobile track locking device, an anti-theft system, a snowmobile recovery system or device, a homing system, a tracking system, video recording equipment, a video recording device, a camera, audio recording equipment, an audio recording device, a microphone, a tape recorder, intercom equipment, a window which turns opaque or darker depending upon interior lighting, a gun, a weapon system, a self-defense system, an electronic warfare system, a battery, a fuel cell, a wheel or brake locking device or mechanism, hydraulic equipment, pneumatic equipment, a winch, a snowmobile control system, snowmobile operation, battery monitoring equipment, a fuel cell temperature measuring device, a fuel cell by-product measuring device, a fuel cell output measuring device, an air bag deployment device, an air bag deployment detection device, a dashboard display device, a gyroscope, a gyrocompass, a data recorder, an operation data recorder, a navigation system, a navigation control or monitoring system, an automatic pilot, a voice recorder, a voice recorder control or monitoring device, a control console display device, fire extinguishing equipment, a radar device, radar equipment, emergency or distress signal equipment, a refrigerator, a stove, an air conditioner, an oven, a microwave oven, lighting systems, a dead bolt locking device for use on at least one of a door, a window, a hood, and a trunk, a snowmobile command computer, a wear or usage indicator, a wear or usage detection device, an automatic control device for controlling or monitoring snowmobile movement or motion, and a snowmobile operation data monitoring device, and a monitoring device for at least one of reading and monitoring at least one of a fuel supply, a water or coolant supply, an electrical generator or alternator operation, a battery charge level, a fuel cell electrical power output, a fuel cell fuel supply level, a fuel cell operating temperature, a fuel cell by-product output level, an engine or motor temperature level, a snowmobile control system, snowmobile operation, and operating status of the at least one of a vehicle system, a vehicle equipment system, a vehicle component, a vehicle device, a vehicle equipment, and a vehicle appliance.

64. An apparatus for monitoring an operation of a vehicle, comprising:
- a first processing device, wherein the first processing device is located at a location remote from the vehicle, wherein the first processing device receives monitored data from a vehicle operation monitoring device, wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device is located at the vehicle, and further wherein the monitored data includes vehicle operational data and video information obtained at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle, wherein the monitored data is received by the first processing device, wherein the first processing device is capable of at least one of storing the monitored data and transmitting the monitored data to a second processing device, wherein the second processing device is located at a location remote from the first processing device and remote from the vehicle, and further wherein the second processing device is capable of receiving the monitored data.
- View Dependent Claims (65)
- - 65. The apparatus of claim 64, wherein the monitored data further includes at least one of operational data regarding the at least one of a vehicle system and a vehicle equipment system and audio information obtained at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle.

66. An apparatus for monitoring an operation of a vehicle, comprising:
- a vehicle operation monitoring device for monitoring at least one of a vehicle operation, a status of a vehicle system, a status of a vehicle equipment system, activity inside the vehicle, and activity outside the vehicle, wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device is located at the vehicle, wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device monitors an operation of at least one of a vehicle system and a vehicle equipment system, wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device receives monitored data regarding the operation of the at least one of a vehicle system and a vehicle equipment system, and further wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device transmits the monitored data to a first processing device, wherein the first processing device is located at a location remote from the vehicle, wherein the monitored data is received by the first processing device, and further wherein the first processing device transmits the monitored data to a second processing device, wherein the second processing device is located at a location remote from the vehicle and remote from the first processing device, wherein the monitored data is received by the second processing device, and further wherein the monitored data is provided at the second processing device, wherein the monitored data includes vehicle operational data and video information obtained at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle.
- View Dependent Claims (67)
- - 67. The apparatus of claim 66, wherein the monitored data further includes at least one of operational data regarding the at least one of a vehicle system and a vehicle equipment system and audio information obtained at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle.

68. An apparatus for monitoring an operation of a vehicle, comprising:
- a vehicle operation monitoring device for monitoring at least one of a vehicle operation, a status of a vehicle system, a status of a vehicle equipment system, activity inside the vehicle, and activity outside the vehicle, wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device is located at the vehicle, wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device monitors an operation of at least one of a vehicle system and a vehicle equipment system, wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device receives monitored data regarding the operation of the at least one of a vehicle system and a vehicle equipment system, and further wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device transmits the monitored data to a first processing device, wherein the first processing device is located at a location remote from the vehicle, wherein the monitored data is received by the first processing device, and further wherein the first processing device is capable of transmitting the monitored data to a second processing device, wherein the second processing device is located at a location remote from the vehicle and remote from the first processing device, wherein the second processing device is capable of receiving the monitored data, wherein the monitored data includes vehicle operational data, operational data regarding the at least one of a vehicle system and a vehicle equipment system, audio information obtained at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle, and video information obtained at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle.

69. An apparatus for monitoring an operation of a vehicle, comprising:
- a first processing device, wherein the first processing device is located at a location remote from the vehicle, wherein the first processing device receives monitored data from a vehicle operation monitoring device, wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device is located at the vehicle, and further wherein the monitored data includes vehicle operational data, operational data regarding the at least one of a vehicle system and a vehicle equipment system, audio information obtained at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle, and video information obtained at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle, wherein the monitored data is received by the first processing device, wherein the first processing device is capable of at least one of storing the monitored data and transmitting the monitored data to a second processing device, wherein the second processing device is located at a location remote from the first processing device and remote from the vehicle, and further wherein the second processing device is capable of receiving the monitored data.

70. An apparatus for monitoring an operation of a vehicle, comprising:
- a vehicle operation monitoring device for monitoring at least one of a vehicle operation, a status of a vehicle system, a status of a vehicle equipment system, activity inside the vehicle, and activity outside the vehicle, wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device is located at the vehicle, wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device monitors an operation of at least one of a vehicle system and a vehicle equipment system, wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device receives monitored data regarding the operation of the at least one of a vehicle system and a vehicle equipment system, and further wherein the vehicle operation monitoring device transmits the monitored data to a first processing device, wherein the first processing device is located at a location remote from the vehicle, wherein the monitored data is received by the first processing device, and further wherein the first processing device transmits the monitored data to a second processing device, wherein the second processing device is located at a location remote from the vehicle and remote from the first processing device, wherein the monitored data is received by the second processing device, and further wherein the monitored data is provided at the second processing device, wherein the monitored data includes vehicle operational data, operational data regarding the at least one of a vehicle system and a vehicle equipment system, audio information obtained at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle, and video information obtained at least one of inside the vehicle and outside the vehicle.

Specification

Resources

Litigation Campaign Assessment

Litigation Data

Current Assignee
Joao Control and Monitoring Systems LLC (Raymond Anthony Joao)
Original Assignee
Raymond Anthony Joao
Inventors
Joao, Raymond Anthony
Primary Examiner(s)
TRIEU, VAN THANH

Application Number

US09/933,105
Publication Number

US 20020121969A1
Time in Patent Office

589 Days
Field of Search

340/425.5, 340/426, 340/438, 340/445, 340/539, 340/542, 340/933, 340/904, 340/5.3, 340/5.64, 340/5.72, 340/5.73, 340/937, 701/35, 701/114, 701/117.3, 701/215, 342/357.07, 342/357.09
US Class Current

340/426.16
CPC Class Codes

B60L 2200/26   Rail vehicles

B60L 2240/622   by satellite navigation

B60L 2240/70   Interactions with external ...

B60L 2250/10   by alarm

B60L 2270/00   Problem solutions or means ...

B60R 2025/1013   Alarm systems characterised...

B60R 2325/304   Boats

B60R 25/018   Thief traps

B60R 25/102   a signal being sent to a re...

B60R 25/252   Fingerprint recognition

B60R 25/257   Voice recognition

B60R 25/33   of global position, e.g. by...

B60W 2556/50   of positioning data, e.g. G...

Y02T 10/72   Electric energy management ...

Y02T 90/16   Information or communicatio...

Monitoring apparatus for a vehicle and/or a premises

First Claim

2 Assignments

Litigations

1 Petition

Accused Products

Abstract

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70 Claims

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Monitoring apparatus for a vehicle and/or a premises

First Claim

2 Assignments

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Subscription Required

Litigations

1 Petition

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Accused Products

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Abstract

Citations

70 Claims

Specification

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Solutions

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