CA2261370A1 - A system and method for transferring data and control signals between a taximeter and a remote location - Google Patents
A system and method for transferring data and control signals between a taximeter and a remote location Download PDFInfo
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- CA2261370A1 CA2261370A1 CA 2261370 CA2261370A CA2261370A1 CA 2261370 A1 CA2261370 A1 CA 2261370A1 CA 2261370 CA2261370 CA 2261370 CA 2261370 A CA2261370 A CA 2261370A CA 2261370 A1 CA2261370 A1 CA 2261370A1
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- taximeter
- data
- controlling computer
- modems
- fare
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- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 16
- 238000004891 communication Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 20
- 238000012545 processing Methods 0.000 claims description 18
- 238000001228 spectrum Methods 0.000 claims description 7
- 238000012546 transfer Methods 0.000 claims description 6
- 230000008569 process Effects 0.000 description 4
- 230000005540 biological transmission Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000006870 function Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000013479 data entry Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000007613 environmental effect Effects 0.000 description 2
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 2
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 2
- FFBHFFJDDLITSX-UHFFFAOYSA-N benzyl N-[2-hydroxy-4-(3-oxomorpholin-4-yl)phenyl]carbamate Chemical compound OC1=C(NC(=O)OCC2=CC=CC=C2)C=CC(=C1)N1CCOCC1=O FFBHFFJDDLITSX-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000013480 data collection Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000737 periodic effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000007 visual effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
- G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
- G07B13/00—Taximeters
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- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Devices For Checking Fares Or Tickets At Control Points (AREA)
Abstract
The present invention relates to a taximeter and in particular to a computer controlled system and method for transferring data and control signals between a taximeter and a remote location. The taximeter is connected to a modem. The operator positions the taxi in close to a second modem connected to a controlling computer at a remote location. Two-way communication is established between the taximeter and the remote computer through the modems. Fare data is downloaded from the taximeter and processed by the controlling computer. Security features are provided. A method is described whereby the operator downloads fare data to the controlling computer at the end of a shift. A system is also provided whereby the taximeter can automatically pay toll fees by debiting a prepaid account record stored in a remote computer and automatically add the toll fee to the client's taxi fare.
Description
A SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRANSFERRING DATA AND CONTROL
SIGNALS BETWEEN A TAXIMETER AND A REMOTE LOCATION
Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a taximeter and in particular to a computer controlled system and method for transferring data and control signals between a taximeter and a remote location.
Background of the Invention A taxi company keeps records of numbers of fares, fares collected, and dates, times and fare locations for each taxi in its fleet. A taximeter is installed in each taxi to record some of this information. At the end of a fare, the information recorded on 15 the taximeter is transcribed onto a paper recording receipt. At the end of the shift, the fare data obtained during the shift, recorded on dozens of paper recording receipts, has to be uploaded to a processing and storage device generally located in the dispatch office. The most common way to upload fare data is for the operator to take the paper recording slips to the dispatch office. There, a data entry clerk will manually input the 2o information into a computer for sorting, processing and storage. This method is time consuming and can be disruptive since a large number of operators may want to remit their receipts at the end of every shift. This method is also prone to mistakes by the data clerk due to misreading the operator's handwriting, lost receipts or keyboarding errors. This method is also vulnerable to tampering and corruption by unscrupulous 25 operators because information recorded on the receipts can be readily falsified.
In their travels, taxi operators may have to stop at a toll station and pay a cash toll. This is a very disruptive process for the operator and the client. The toll must be added to the client's fare, recorded on a receipt and segregated during data entry and processing. This process is vulnerable to fraud by unscrupulous operators who can falsify the toll fee amount. Processing toll fees adds greatly to the administrative burden on the taxi company. Furthermore, modern highways and airports are also being equipped with automatic toll recording devices.
1o Proposals to improve taximeters are well documented, for example, Canadian Patent Application Number 2,139,897 filed on January 10, 1995 by Claude Richard teaches a taximeter which can be disabled in the event of unauthorized modifications to the taximeter by an operator. Richard does not address the problems relating to transferring fare data from the taximeter to a processing and storage device at the end of each shift. Automated toll collection systems have also been proposed. For example, Canadian Patent Application Number 2,194,826 filed by Kiochiro Fujimoto on January 10, 1997 describes a toll collection system that automatically collects a toll from every passing vehicle and then prepares toll charge data related to that vehicle.
However, Fujimoto does not teach how an automatic toll collection system can be 2o adapted to charge a toll fee directly to a taximeter. Generally, prior art taximeters cannot cope with the volume of fare data generated by a modern taxi company or efficiently cope with toll fees that must be charged to individual clients.
SIGNALS BETWEEN A TAXIMETER AND A REMOTE LOCATION
Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a taximeter and in particular to a computer controlled system and method for transferring data and control signals between a taximeter and a remote location.
Background of the Invention A taxi company keeps records of numbers of fares, fares collected, and dates, times and fare locations for each taxi in its fleet. A taximeter is installed in each taxi to record some of this information. At the end of a fare, the information recorded on 15 the taximeter is transcribed onto a paper recording receipt. At the end of the shift, the fare data obtained during the shift, recorded on dozens of paper recording receipts, has to be uploaded to a processing and storage device generally located in the dispatch office. The most common way to upload fare data is for the operator to take the paper recording slips to the dispatch office. There, a data entry clerk will manually input the 2o information into a computer for sorting, processing and storage. This method is time consuming and can be disruptive since a large number of operators may want to remit their receipts at the end of every shift. This method is also prone to mistakes by the data clerk due to misreading the operator's handwriting, lost receipts or keyboarding errors. This method is also vulnerable to tampering and corruption by unscrupulous 25 operators because information recorded on the receipts can be readily falsified.
In their travels, taxi operators may have to stop at a toll station and pay a cash toll. This is a very disruptive process for the operator and the client. The toll must be added to the client's fare, recorded on a receipt and segregated during data entry and processing. This process is vulnerable to fraud by unscrupulous operators who can falsify the toll fee amount. Processing toll fees adds greatly to the administrative burden on the taxi company. Furthermore, modern highways and airports are also being equipped with automatic toll recording devices.
1o Proposals to improve taximeters are well documented, for example, Canadian Patent Application Number 2,139,897 filed on January 10, 1995 by Claude Richard teaches a taximeter which can be disabled in the event of unauthorized modifications to the taximeter by an operator. Richard does not address the problems relating to transferring fare data from the taximeter to a processing and storage device at the end of each shift. Automated toll collection systems have also been proposed. For example, Canadian Patent Application Number 2,194,826 filed by Kiochiro Fujimoto on January 10, 1997 describes a toll collection system that automatically collects a toll from every passing vehicle and then prepares toll charge data related to that vehicle.
However, Fujimoto does not teach how an automatic toll collection system can be 2o adapted to charge a toll fee directly to a taximeter. Generally, prior art taximeters cannot cope with the volume of fare data generated by a modern taxi company or efficiently cope with toll fees that must be charged to individual clients.
There is therefore a need for a system and method that addresses the above shortcomings and provides swift and efficient taxi fare data collection and processing, is able to easily charge toll fees directly to the client and reduces the opportunities for fraud by unscrupulous operators.
Summary of the Invention An object of the present invention is to provide a system and method which improves the processing of large amounts of taxi fare data from a plurality of taxicabs 1o in a large taxi operation, facilitates the collection of toll fees and permits their direct charge to the client and reduces the vulnerability of the taximeter and fare data processing and collection system to fraud.
In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is provided a 15 system for transferring data and control signals between a taximeter and a remote location comprising: a taximeter mounted in a taxicab for collecting and digitally storing fare data; means for remotely controlling specific functions of the taximeter;
means for remotely collecting, storing and processing fare data from a taximeter;
means for identifying the taximeter; and, means for establishing two way 2o communications between the taximeter and the remote controlling means.
In one embodiment of the present invention the taximeter has an input/output device for transferring stored digital data to and receiving instructions from a remote location. The input/output device may be a RS232 serial port connected to a modem.
In another aspect of the present invention, the system is controlled by a remotely located computer. The remotely located computer receives fare data from the taximeter, stores and processes it. The computer may also command the taximeter to perform specific functions such as compare the fare structure and calibration data currently stored in the taximeter with data stored in the controlling computer.
In a further embodiment of the invention, fare data security is enhanced by electronically tagging the taximeter with a unique identifying serial number that can be queried by the controlling computer. This security feature can be further enhanced 1o by encrypting the serial number to prevent copying of the serial number for fraudulent purposes.
In another aspect of the invention the taximeter and the controlling computer establish two-way communications with each other by using a first and second 15 modem. The first modem is serially connected to the taximeter and the second modem is serially connected to the remote-controlling computer. The modems can be IRDA serial links or low power, spread spectrum radio modems. The modems are capable of wireless transmission over short distances in all environmental conditions.
Typically, this distance is less than ten (10) meters.
2o In yet another embodiment of the present invention the remote controlling computer can disable the taximeter by issuing a disabling command if preconditions are met. For example, if the fare data stored in the taximeter were not downloaded to the controlling computer within a specified period of time, at the next occasion when the taximeter communicates with the controlling computer the disabling command would be issued.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the taximeter is able to disable itself if certain preconditions exist. For example, if the taximeter has not been 1o connected to the controlling computer within a predetermined period of time, the taximeter would automatically disable itself.
In a further aspect of the present invention the taximeter can be electronically interrogated by governing authorities with a compatible modem to verify rate settings.
In still another aspect of the present invention, when the taximeter mechanical seal has been opened by authorized personnel to change rate or calibration data, the remote controlling computer can upload the collected data to the taximeter.
2o In a further embodiment of the present invention, a portable or laptop computer equipped with a compatible modem can be taken to a taxi and taxi fare data unloaded from the taximeter. The portable computer can then transfer the downloaded data to the remote-controlling computer.
In still another aspect of the present invention, the taximeter is capable of electronically identifying itself to a highway or airport toll station and receive a signal from the toll station that instructs the taximeter to automatically add the toll fee to the taxi fare. The toll fee can then be segregated from the fare data by the remote-controlling computer. Alternatively, the taximeter is capable of sending a signal to a highway or airport toll station receiving means to instruct the toll station controlling computer to deduct the toll fee from a prepaid account registered to the taxi company and identified by the taximeter identification number.
1o In a further another embodiment of the present invention, the taximeter records all of the fare and toll data entered in an operator's shift. The operator then brings the first modem serially connected to the taximeter in communication with a second modem serially connected to the remote controlling computer and located at a 15 data downloading station. The second modem at the downloading station is fixed to a supporting structure. Once communication between the taximeter and the controlling computer is established, the controlling computer instructs the taximeter to download the serial number, the fare and toll data that is subsequently processed and stored by the control computer.
The present invention provides for a number of advantages by: simplifying the transfer of fare and toll fee data from the taximeter to the processing computer;
recording toll fees and directly charging those to the client; and, by reducing the vulnerability of the taximeter and data processing system to errors and fraud.
Brief Description of the Drawings The present invention will be further understood from the following description with reference to the drawings in which:
Fig 1 illustrates in schematic form of an embodiment of the present invention.
Detailed Description to Referring to Fig 1 there is illustrated a system for transferring data and control signals between a taximeter (2) and a remote location (4). The taximeter (2) is located in a taxicab (6) in such a way as its displays are readily visible to the passengers) and the operator. The taximeter (2) contains a digital memory device (8) and a serial port (10). The digital memory device (8) stores the fare data generated by the taximeter (2). Memory device (8) and RS232 serial port (10) are electronically connected (12) so as to permit communications between them. Serially connected (14) to the taximeter (2) is a first modem (16). The first modem can be an IRDA serial link or a low power, spread spectrum radio modem. The first modem is located in the taxicab 2o (6) on the driver's side in such a manner as to permit unobstructed two-way transmission (18) of either light or radio signals to and from the first modem (16).
A compatible second modem (20) is located at a download station (21) on a support structure (22) The distance (24) between the first modem (16) and the second modem (20) is not more than 10 meters to permit efficient transmission of light or radio signals under all environmental conditions. Second modem (20) is serially connected (26) to control computer (28) located remotely at (4). The remote location (4) may be in the taxi company's dispatch office.
The compatible second modem (20) may also be located at an airport toll station. Taxi (6) drives past toll station (21) to which modem (20) is fixed.
Modem (16) sends a signal to modem (20) identifying the taxi. Identification information is sent to remote controlling computer (28). The remote location (4) may be in an airport administration office. Control computer (28) will verify the identity of the taxi and then debit the toll fee from the taxi's prepaid account. The taximeter will add the toll fee to the client's fare automatically.
When necessary or convenient a portable or laptop computer (30) equipment with a compatible modem (32) can be placed within communication range of first modem (16) to establish two-way communications (34) and download the serial number, fare, rate base and calibration data from taximeter (2). The fare data can then 2o be transferred (36) to the controlling computer (28).
Portable computer (30) may be operated by governing authorities that may communicate with the taximeter (2) in order to verify fare rate data and calibration data on a periodic or on-demand basis.
The steps for collecting, identifying, downloading and processing fare data can be summarized in the following chart.
CHART A
STEP PROCESS
1 The taxi operator picks up the client and initiates the recording features on the taximeter (2).
2 At the end of the trip, the operator stops the recording features on the taximeter (2) and collects the fare.
Summary of the Invention An object of the present invention is to provide a system and method which improves the processing of large amounts of taxi fare data from a plurality of taxicabs 1o in a large taxi operation, facilitates the collection of toll fees and permits their direct charge to the client and reduces the vulnerability of the taximeter and fare data processing and collection system to fraud.
In accordance with one aspect of the present invention there is provided a 15 system for transferring data and control signals between a taximeter and a remote location comprising: a taximeter mounted in a taxicab for collecting and digitally storing fare data; means for remotely controlling specific functions of the taximeter;
means for remotely collecting, storing and processing fare data from a taximeter;
means for identifying the taximeter; and, means for establishing two way 2o communications between the taximeter and the remote controlling means.
In one embodiment of the present invention the taximeter has an input/output device for transferring stored digital data to and receiving instructions from a remote location. The input/output device may be a RS232 serial port connected to a modem.
In another aspect of the present invention, the system is controlled by a remotely located computer. The remotely located computer receives fare data from the taximeter, stores and processes it. The computer may also command the taximeter to perform specific functions such as compare the fare structure and calibration data currently stored in the taximeter with data stored in the controlling computer.
In a further embodiment of the invention, fare data security is enhanced by electronically tagging the taximeter with a unique identifying serial number that can be queried by the controlling computer. This security feature can be further enhanced 1o by encrypting the serial number to prevent copying of the serial number for fraudulent purposes.
In another aspect of the invention the taximeter and the controlling computer establish two-way communications with each other by using a first and second 15 modem. The first modem is serially connected to the taximeter and the second modem is serially connected to the remote-controlling computer. The modems can be IRDA serial links or low power, spread spectrum radio modems. The modems are capable of wireless transmission over short distances in all environmental conditions.
Typically, this distance is less than ten (10) meters.
2o In yet another embodiment of the present invention the remote controlling computer can disable the taximeter by issuing a disabling command if preconditions are met. For example, if the fare data stored in the taximeter were not downloaded to the controlling computer within a specified period of time, at the next occasion when the taximeter communicates with the controlling computer the disabling command would be issued.
In still another embodiment of the present invention the taximeter is able to disable itself if certain preconditions exist. For example, if the taximeter has not been 1o connected to the controlling computer within a predetermined period of time, the taximeter would automatically disable itself.
In a further aspect of the present invention the taximeter can be electronically interrogated by governing authorities with a compatible modem to verify rate settings.
In still another aspect of the present invention, when the taximeter mechanical seal has been opened by authorized personnel to change rate or calibration data, the remote controlling computer can upload the collected data to the taximeter.
2o In a further embodiment of the present invention, a portable or laptop computer equipped with a compatible modem can be taken to a taxi and taxi fare data unloaded from the taximeter. The portable computer can then transfer the downloaded data to the remote-controlling computer.
In still another aspect of the present invention, the taximeter is capable of electronically identifying itself to a highway or airport toll station and receive a signal from the toll station that instructs the taximeter to automatically add the toll fee to the taxi fare. The toll fee can then be segregated from the fare data by the remote-controlling computer. Alternatively, the taximeter is capable of sending a signal to a highway or airport toll station receiving means to instruct the toll station controlling computer to deduct the toll fee from a prepaid account registered to the taxi company and identified by the taximeter identification number.
1o In a further another embodiment of the present invention, the taximeter records all of the fare and toll data entered in an operator's shift. The operator then brings the first modem serially connected to the taximeter in communication with a second modem serially connected to the remote controlling computer and located at a 15 data downloading station. The second modem at the downloading station is fixed to a supporting structure. Once communication between the taximeter and the controlling computer is established, the controlling computer instructs the taximeter to download the serial number, the fare and toll data that is subsequently processed and stored by the control computer.
The present invention provides for a number of advantages by: simplifying the transfer of fare and toll fee data from the taximeter to the processing computer;
recording toll fees and directly charging those to the client; and, by reducing the vulnerability of the taximeter and data processing system to errors and fraud.
Brief Description of the Drawings The present invention will be further understood from the following description with reference to the drawings in which:
Fig 1 illustrates in schematic form of an embodiment of the present invention.
Detailed Description to Referring to Fig 1 there is illustrated a system for transferring data and control signals between a taximeter (2) and a remote location (4). The taximeter (2) is located in a taxicab (6) in such a way as its displays are readily visible to the passengers) and the operator. The taximeter (2) contains a digital memory device (8) and a serial port (10). The digital memory device (8) stores the fare data generated by the taximeter (2). Memory device (8) and RS232 serial port (10) are electronically connected (12) so as to permit communications between them. Serially connected (14) to the taximeter (2) is a first modem (16). The first modem can be an IRDA serial link or a low power, spread spectrum radio modem. The first modem is located in the taxicab 2o (6) on the driver's side in such a manner as to permit unobstructed two-way transmission (18) of either light or radio signals to and from the first modem (16).
A compatible second modem (20) is located at a download station (21) on a support structure (22) The distance (24) between the first modem (16) and the second modem (20) is not more than 10 meters to permit efficient transmission of light or radio signals under all environmental conditions. Second modem (20) is serially connected (26) to control computer (28) located remotely at (4). The remote location (4) may be in the taxi company's dispatch office.
The compatible second modem (20) may also be located at an airport toll station. Taxi (6) drives past toll station (21) to which modem (20) is fixed.
Modem (16) sends a signal to modem (20) identifying the taxi. Identification information is sent to remote controlling computer (28). The remote location (4) may be in an airport administration office. Control computer (28) will verify the identity of the taxi and then debit the toll fee from the taxi's prepaid account. The taximeter will add the toll fee to the client's fare automatically.
When necessary or convenient a portable or laptop computer (30) equipment with a compatible modem (32) can be placed within communication range of first modem (16) to establish two-way communications (34) and download the serial number, fare, rate base and calibration data from taximeter (2). The fare data can then 2o be transferred (36) to the controlling computer (28).
Portable computer (30) may be operated by governing authorities that may communicate with the taximeter (2) in order to verify fare rate data and calibration data on a periodic or on-demand basis.
The steps for collecting, identifying, downloading and processing fare data can be summarized in the following chart.
CHART A
STEP PROCESS
1 The taxi operator picks up the client and initiates the recording features on the taximeter (2).
2 At the end of the trip, the operator stops the recording features on the taximeter (2) and collects the fare.
3 Taximeter (2) automatically stores the fare data in memory device (8). Steps l, 2, and 3 are repeated for all clients over the course of the operator's shift.
4 At the end of the operator's shift, the operator drives taxi (6) to within 10 meters of a download station (21).
Once in a communicating position, controlling computer (28) will instruct modem (20) to initiate a two-way dialogue (18) with modem (16) that is serially connected to taximeter (2) in the taxi (6).
6 Once two-way communication (18) is established between first and second modems (16) and (20) controlling computer (28) will query taximeter (2) for its identifying serial number stored in memory device (8). If required, controlling computer (28) will decrypt the encrypted identifying serial number.
7 Once the identification of taximeter (2) is verified, the controlling computer (28) will instruct taximeter (2) to download all fare data from its memory to the memory in the controlling computer (28).
STEP PROCES S
8 Once the fare data is downloaded to the controlling computer (28), it will perform predetermined functions on the taximeter (2).
9 Upon completion of fare data and control signal transfer, the controlling computer (28) will send a visual signal (38) to the operator of the taxi (6) that the transfer is complete and the operator will drive away from the downloading station (21).
Steps 1 to 9 are repeated for each taxicab in the company's fleet at the end of each operator's shift.
Although only a single embodiment of the present invention has been described and illustrated, the present invention is not limited to the features of this embodiment, but includes all variations and modifications with in the scope of the claims.
Once in a communicating position, controlling computer (28) will instruct modem (20) to initiate a two-way dialogue (18) with modem (16) that is serially connected to taximeter (2) in the taxi (6).
6 Once two-way communication (18) is established between first and second modems (16) and (20) controlling computer (28) will query taximeter (2) for its identifying serial number stored in memory device (8). If required, controlling computer (28) will decrypt the encrypted identifying serial number.
7 Once the identification of taximeter (2) is verified, the controlling computer (28) will instruct taximeter (2) to download all fare data from its memory to the memory in the controlling computer (28).
STEP PROCES S
8 Once the fare data is downloaded to the controlling computer (28), it will perform predetermined functions on the taximeter (2).
9 Upon completion of fare data and control signal transfer, the controlling computer (28) will send a visual signal (38) to the operator of the taxi (6) that the transfer is complete and the operator will drive away from the downloading station (21).
Steps 1 to 9 are repeated for each taxicab in the company's fleet at the end of each operator's shift.
Although only a single embodiment of the present invention has been described and illustrated, the present invention is not limited to the features of this embodiment, but includes all variations and modifications with in the scope of the claims.
Claims (33)
1. A system for transferring data and control signals between a taximeter and a remote location comprising:
-a taximeter mounted in a taxicab for collecting and digitally storing fare data;
-means for remotely controlling the taximeter;
-means for remotely collecting, storing and processing fare data from a taximeter;
-means for identifying the taximeter; and, -means for establishing two way communications between the taximeter and the remote controlling means.
-a taximeter mounted in a taxicab for collecting and digitally storing fare data;
-means for remotely controlling the taximeter;
-means for remotely collecting, storing and processing fare data from a taximeter;
-means for identifying the taximeter; and, -means for establishing two way communications between the taximeter and the remote controlling means.
2. A system as claimed in claim 1 wherein the taximeter includes a digital memory device for storing the data and an input/output device for transferring stored digital data to and receiving instructions from a remote location.
3. A system as claimed in claim 2 wherein the remote controlling means is a computer.
4. A system as claimed in claim 3 wherein the means for remotely collecting, storing and processing fare data from a taximeter is a computer.
5. A system as claimed in claim 4 wherein the input/output device is an RS 232 serial port.
6. A system as claimed in claim 5 wherein the means for identifying the taximeter is a digitally encoded serial number electronically embedded in the taximeter.
7. A system as claimed in claim 6 wherein the serial number is encrypted.
8. A system as claimed in claim 7 wherein the means for establishing two-way communication between the taximeter and remote controlling means is a first modem serially connected to the taximeter and a second modem serially connected to the remote-controlling computer.
9. A system as claimed in claim 8 wherein the first and modems are IRDA serial links.
10. A system as claimed in claim 8 wherein the first and modems are low power, spread spectrum radio modem.
11. A system as claimed in claim 8 wherein the controlling computer is capable of remotely disabling the taximeter.
12. A system as claimed in claim 11 wherein the taximeter can disable itself if it is not connected to the remotely located controlling computer within a predeterminable period of time.
13. A system as claimed in claim 12 wherein the remotely located controlling computer is capable of changing fare rates in the taximeter after a mechanical security seal has been broken on the taximeter.
14. A system as claimed in claim 13 wherein the remotely located controlling computer is capable of calibrating the taximeter after a mechanical security seal has been broken.
15. A system as claimed in claim 11 wherein said controlling computer can add additional charges to the taximeter as required.
16. A system as claimed in claim 15 wherein the taximeter may be interrogated by the controlling computer to determine the validity of its settings.
17. A system as claimed in claim 16 wherein said taximeter may be remotely interrogated using a portable computer connected to a compatible modems.
18. A system as claimed in claim 17 wherein the taximeter is capable of receiving a signal from a toll station through the first modem and automatically adding the toll fee to the taxi fare.
19. A system as claimed in claim 18 wherein the taximeter is capable of sending a signal to a toll station controlling computer receiving means from the first modem instructing the toll station controlling computer to deduct the toll fee from a prepaid account registered to the taximeter identification number.
20. A system for transferring data and control signals between a taximeter and a remote location comprising a taximeter mounted in a taxi cab for collecting and digitally storing fare data; the taximeter further comprising a digital memory device and an input/output device; a remotely located controlling computer for sending controlling signals to the taximeter and for collecting, storing and processing fare data from the taximeter; the taximeter identifiable by the controlling computer by a digital serial number electronically embedded in the taximeter; the digital serial number encryptable; a first modems serially connected to the taximeter and a second modems serially connected to the controlling computer, said first and second modems establishing two way communications between the taximeter and the remotely located controlling computer.
21. A system as claimed in claim 20 wherein the input/output device is an RS
serial port.
serial port.
22. A system as claimed in claim 21 wherein the first and modems are IRDA
serial links.
serial links.
23. A system as claimed in claim 21 wherein the first and second modems are low power, spread spectrum radio modems.
24. A system for transferring fare data and control signals between a taximeter and a remote location comprising a taximeter mounted in a taxi cab for collecting and digitally storing fare data; the taxi meter identifiable by an encryptable digitized serial number; said taxi meter including a RS 232 serial port; the serial port connected to a first modems; the first modems in two-way communication with a second modems serially connected to a remotely located controlling computer; the taximeter and remotely located controlling computer capable of encrypting and decrypting transmitted data.
25. A system as claimed in claim 24 wherein said first and second modems are IRDA serial links.
26. A system as claimed in claim 24 wherein said first and second modems are low power, spread spectrum radio modem.
27. A method for transferring data and control signals between a taximeter to a remote location comprising the steps of:
- collecting data from a plurality of taxi fares;
- storing the data in the taximeter memory means;
- at regular intervals placing the taximeter data transmitting/receiving first modem in communication range with a controlling computer's data transmitting/receiving second modem so as to permit two-way communication between them;
- establishing two-way communication between the taximeter and the controlling computer;
- identifying the taximeter by locating and decrypting as necessary the taximeter identification number;
- transferring the fare data from the taximeter memory means to the controlling computer;
- processing and storing fare data from the taximeter, - passing predetermined control signals to the taximeter; and, - notifying the operator that the data transfer is complete.
- collecting data from a plurality of taxi fares;
- storing the data in the taximeter memory means;
- at regular intervals placing the taximeter data transmitting/receiving first modem in communication range with a controlling computer's data transmitting/receiving second modem so as to permit two-way communication between them;
- establishing two-way communication between the taximeter and the controlling computer;
- identifying the taximeter by locating and decrypting as necessary the taximeter identification number;
- transferring the fare data from the taximeter memory means to the controlling computer;
- processing and storing fare data from the taximeter, - passing predetermined control signals to the taximeter; and, - notifying the operator that the data transfer is complete.
28. In a system for transferring data and control signals between a taximeter and a remote location comprising a taximeter mounted in a taxi cab for collecting and digitally storing fare data, said taximeter comprising a digital memory device and an input/output device; a remotely located controlling computer for sending controlling signals to the taximeter and for collecting, storing and processing fare data from the taximeter; the taximeter identifiable by the controlling computer by a digital serial number; a first modems serially connected to the taximeter and a second modems serially connected to the remotely located controlling computer for establishing two way communications between the taximeter and the remotely located controlling computer; a method for transferring data and control signals between a taximeter to a remote location comprising the steps of:
- collecting data from a plurality of taxi fares;
- storing the data in the taximeter memory means;
- at regular intervals, placing the taximeter data transmitting/receiving first modem in close proximity to the controlling computer's data transmitting/receiving second modem so as to permit two-way communication between them;
- establishing two-way communication between the taximeter and the controlling computer;
- identifying the taximeter by locating and decrypting the taxi meter identification number;
- transferring the fare data from the taximeter memory means to the controlling computer;
- processing and storing data from the taximeter;
- passing predetermined control signals to the taximeter; and, - notifying the operator that the data transfer is complete.
- collecting data from a plurality of taxi fares;
- storing the data in the taximeter memory means;
- at regular intervals, placing the taximeter data transmitting/receiving first modem in close proximity to the controlling computer's data transmitting/receiving second modem so as to permit two-way communication between them;
- establishing two-way communication between the taximeter and the controlling computer;
- identifying the taximeter by locating and decrypting the taxi meter identification number;
- transferring the fare data from the taximeter memory means to the controlling computer;
- processing and storing data from the taximeter;
- passing predetermined control signals to the taximeter; and, - notifying the operator that the data transfer is complete.
29. A system as claimed in claim 28 wherein said first and second modems are IRDA serial links.
30. A system as claimed in claim 28 wherein said first and second modems are low power, spread spectrum radio modem.
31. A system for transferring fare data and control signals between a taximeter and a remote location comprising a taximeter mounted in a taxi cab for collecting and digitally storing fare data; the taxi meter identifiable by a digitized serial number; said taxi meter including a RS 232 serial port; the serial port connected to a first modems; the first modems in two-way communication with a second modems serially connected to a toll station remotely located controlling computer; the taximeter capable of receiving a toll fee signal from the toll station controlling computer and automatically adding the toll fee to the taxi fare; the taximeter capable of sending an identification signal to the toll station controlling computer; the controlling computer automatically deducting the toll fee from a prepaid account identified by the taxi identification number.
32. A system as claimed in claim 31 wherein said first and second modems are IRDA serial links.
33. A system as claimed in claim 32 wherein said first and second modems are low power, spread spectrum radio modem.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2261370 CA2261370A1 (en) | 1999-02-05 | 1999-02-05 | A system and method for transferring data and control signals between a taximeter and a remote location |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2261370 CA2261370A1 (en) | 1999-02-05 | 1999-02-05 | A system and method for transferring data and control signals between a taximeter and a remote location |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2261370A1 true CA2261370A1 (en) | 2000-08-05 |
Family
ID=29555107
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA 2261370 Abandoned CA2261370A1 (en) | 1999-02-05 | 1999-02-05 | A system and method for transferring data and control signals between a taximeter and a remote location |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2261370A1 (en) |
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| GB2494909A (en) * | 2011-09-26 | 2013-03-27 | Lee Harvey Walden | Control system to remotely control a taxi meter |
| WO2013033468A3 (en) * | 2011-09-02 | 2014-05-22 | Integrity Vehicle Solutions Company Llc | Systems and methods for pairing of for hire vehicle meters and medallions |
| WO2013033470A3 (en) * | 2011-09-02 | 2014-05-22 | Integrity Vehicle Solutions Company Llc | System and method for independent control of for-hire vehicles |
| WO2014082134A1 (en) * | 2012-11-30 | 2014-06-05 | Taxiprop Pty Ltd | Taximeter, system and method for a taxi |
| AU2013203727B2 (en) * | 2012-11-30 | 2016-06-09 | Taxiprop Pty Ltd | Device and system for a taxi |
| AU2016225875B2 (en) * | 2012-11-30 | 2018-02-01 | Taxiprop Pty Ltd | Device and system for a taxi |
| US12062069B2 (en) | 2012-03-22 | 2024-08-13 | Ivsc Ip, Llc | Transaction and communication system and method for vendors and promoters |
| US12105864B2 (en) | 2011-05-26 | 2024-10-01 | Ivsc Ip, Llc | Tamper evident system for modification and distribution of secured vehicle operating parameters |
-
1999
- 1999-02-05 CA CA 2261370 patent/CA2261370A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (12)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US12105864B2 (en) | 2011-05-26 | 2024-10-01 | Ivsc Ip, Llc | Tamper evident system for modification and distribution of secured vehicle operating parameters |
| WO2013033468A3 (en) * | 2011-09-02 | 2014-05-22 | Integrity Vehicle Solutions Company Llc | Systems and methods for pairing of for hire vehicle meters and medallions |
| WO2013033470A3 (en) * | 2011-09-02 | 2014-05-22 | Integrity Vehicle Solutions Company Llc | System and method for independent control of for-hire vehicles |
| US11200755B2 (en) | 2011-09-02 | 2021-12-14 | Ivsc Ip Llc | Systems and methods for pairing of for-hire vehicle meters and medallions |
| GB2494909A (en) * | 2011-09-26 | 2013-03-27 | Lee Harvey Walden | Control system to remotely control a taxi meter |
| US12062069B2 (en) | 2012-03-22 | 2024-08-13 | Ivsc Ip, Llc | Transaction and communication system and method for vendors and promoters |
| WO2014082134A1 (en) * | 2012-11-30 | 2014-06-05 | Taxiprop Pty Ltd | Taximeter, system and method for a taxi |
| AU2013203727B2 (en) * | 2012-11-30 | 2016-06-09 | Taxiprop Pty Ltd | Device and system for a taxi |
| AU2013351922B2 (en) * | 2012-11-30 | 2017-10-26 | Taxiprop Pty Ltd | Taximeter, system and method for a taxi |
| AU2016225875B2 (en) * | 2012-11-30 | 2018-02-01 | Taxiprop Pty Ltd | Device and system for a taxi |
| US10354299B2 (en) | 2012-11-30 | 2019-07-16 | Taxiprop Pty Ltd | Taximeter, system and method for a taxi |
| AU2017279737B2 (en) * | 2012-11-30 | 2019-12-12 | Taxiprop Pty Ltd | Taximeter, system and method for a taxi |
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