WO2008058221A2 - Vehicle operator performance history recording, scoring, and reporting systems - Google Patents

Abstract

Methods and apparatus for generating a dπver history report based on vehicle operator performance history recording, including collection and processing of vehicle crash and event data Vehicle event recorders capture data relating to events and associate collected data with the vehicle operator Recall operations executed against stored data yields operator performance reporting, including a single value performance score indicative of a vehicle operator's performance and safety history An analyzer system operates to recall data, particularly data from a plurality of events associated with a single operator but recorded over an extended penod of time Data is arranged such that other mathematical analysis may be applied independently to various data elements or data fields to produce performance metrics and ratios which reflect performance

Description

VEHICLE OPERATOR PERFORMANCE HISTORY RECORDING, SCORING, AND REPORTING SYSTEM

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] The present application claims priority to United States non-provisional patent application no. 11/593,659 filed on November 7, 2006, the entirety of which is incorporated herein by reference. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Field

[0002] The following invention disclosure is generally concerned with vehicle operator scoring and reporting and specifically concerned with automated systems which maintain a performance history associated with particular drivers. Prior Art

[0003] United States patent number 6,947,817 discloses systems for non-intrusive diagnostic testing of oxygen sensor operation. The systems include a wireless communications link between a vehicle and a remote network of server computers. In particular, a WiFi type access point enables an analyzer to communicate by way of the Internet with a server computer hosting an oxygen sensor SOAP (simple object access protocol) service. In essence, the system relates to smog sensors for automobiles which communicate with remote servers by way of a WiFi communications link. [0004] Video surveillance systems are used to provide video records of events, incidents, happenings, et cetera in locations of special interest. For example, retail banking offices are generally protected with fixed-location, video surveillance systems which provide video evidence in the event of a robbery. Video surveillance systems may also be mobile.

[0005] For example, many police cruisers have been fitted with mobile video surveillance systems. Vehicle mounted video recording systems may also record non- criminal information that is none-the-less important. As a police cruiser is frequently quite near the scene of an active crime, important information may be captured by video cameras installed in or on the police cruiser. [0006] For example, a video of a simple traffic accident in which two cars come together in a collision may be of evidentiary of value. Events and circumstances leading up to the collision accident may be preserved such that an accurate reconstruction can be created. This information is useful when trying to determine cause, fault, or liability. As such, general use of video systems in conjunction with automobiles is quickly becoming an important tool. Some examples of vehicle video systems are described below. [0007] U.S. patent number 5,570,127, describes a video recording system for a school bus. The system has two video cameras, one for an inside bus view, one for a traffic view, and a single video recorder. The system multiplexes the two cameras at appropriate times to the recording device. A switching signal determines which of the two video cameras is recorded by the video recorder so as to view passengers at certain times and passing traffic at other times.

[0008] U.S. Patent 5,586,130, discloses a method and apparatus for detecting fault conditions in a vehicle data recording device so as to detect tampering or unauthorized access. The system includes vehicle sensors for monitoring one or more operational parameters of the vehicle. The fault detection technique contemplates storing a current time value at regular intervals during periods in which the recording device is provided with a source of main power.

[0009] U.S. patent number 5,815,071, discloses a method and apparatus for monitoring parameters of vehicle electronic control units.

[0010] U.S. patent number 5,815,093, discloses a vehicle accident recording system employing a digital camera connected to a nonvolatile memory and an accident sensing interrupter. Unless an accident is detected, the oldest memory is overwritten by the newest images. When an accident is detected the memory is blocked from further overwrites to protect previously recorded images, which may include important information about events leading up to the accident. In preferred embodiments, the system has a wired communication port whereby stored images are downloaded after an accident to a digital device capable of displaying the images.

[0011] U.S. patent number 6,002,326, teaches an antitheft device for a vehicle having both an audible alarm and visual monitoring system. Video monitor operators are responsible for monitoring and handling an emergency situation and informing a 911 emergency station. [0012] U.S. patent number 6,088,635, discloses a railroad vehicle accident video recorder. In this system, a method and monitoring unit for recording the status of a railroad vehicle prior to a potential accident is presented. The monitoring unit continuously monitors the status of the railroad vehicle's emergency brake and horn. Operation of the emergency brake or horn triggers the system to record video images for a predetermined period of time.

[0013] U.S. patent 6,185,490, discloses a vehicle crash data recorder. The apparatus includes a three stage memory to record and retain information. The system is equipped with a serial or parallel connectors to provide instant on-scene access to accident data.

[0014] U.S. patent 6,246,933, describes a traffic accident data recorder and traffic accident reproduction system. The system includes a plurality of sensors for registering vehicle operating parameters, at least one vehicle mounted digital video, audio camera is included for sensing, storing, and updating the operating parameters. A rewritable, nonvolatile memory is provided for storing processed operating parameters and video images and audio signals. A computer can use the data so that an accident can be reconstructed via the collected data.

[0015] U.S. patent 6,298,290, teaches a memory apparatus for vehicle information data. A plurality of sensors including a CCD camera, collision sensor, vehicle speed sensors, steering angle sensor, brake pressure sensor and acceleration sensor, are all coupled to a control unit. The control unit encodes and records the information to a flash memory and a RAM memory. A wired video output terminal is provided to retrieve the high-bandwidth data.

[0016] U.S. patent number 6,333,759, describes a 360° automobile video camera system. A complex mechanical mount provides for a single camera to adjust its viewing angle giving a 360° range for video recording inside and outside of an automotive vehicle.

[0017] Patent number 6,389,339 teaches a vehicle operation monitoring system and method. Operation of a vehicle is monitored with an onboard video camera linked with a radio transceiver. A mobile modem is designed to transmit live video into a network as the vehicle travels. Using a monitoring service, video data received from the transceiver may be viewed on a home-base computer. The system is aimed at parental monitoring of adolescent driving. [0018] U.S. Patent number 6,411,874 discloses an advanced law enforcement and response system. A highly integrated system provides control for a plurality of detector systems, including video and audio systems, distributed about a police car or other emergency vehicle. A primary feature included in this device includes an advanced user interface and display system, which permits high level driver interaction with the system. [0019] U.S. patent number 6,421,080 describes a digital surveillance system with pre-event recording. Pre-event recording is important in accident recording systems, because detection of the accident generally happens after the accident has occurred. A first memory is used for temporary storage. Images are stored in the temporary storage continuously until a trigger is activated indicating an accident has occurred. The images then are transferred to a more permanent memory.

[0020] U.S. patents 6,389,340; 6,405,112; 6,449,540; and 6,718,239 are each directed to automobiles camera systems which capture video images, both of forward- looking and driver views, and store the recorded images locally on a mass storage system. An operator, at the end of the vehicle service day, uses a wired connector to download information into a desktop computer system. Specialized application software is provided to playback and analyze the images and other information a highly integrated user display interface.

[0021] It is not possible in theses systems for an administrative operator to manipulate or otherwise handle the captured data at an off-site location without human intervention. It is necessary for a download operator to transfer captured data to a disconnected computer system. While the downloaded files can be e-mailed or otherwise transferred through the Internet, the files are in a proprietary format and can only be read by the proprietary application. Thus, data captured by the vehicles is unavailable to parties having an interest in the data, unless they have purchased the proper software application. A second and major disadvantage is that a person must take action to download the captured data on a frequent basis.

[0022] U.S. patent number 6,459,988 teaches methods and systems for detecting a vehicle collision using the global positioning system (GPS). A GPS receiver is combined with wireless technology to automatically report an accident and remotely locate third parties. The system uses the GPS signals to determine when an acceleration value exceeds a preset threshold which is meant to be indicative of an accident having occurred. [0023] U.S. patent number 6,862,524 discloses a system for determining and disseminating traffic information or route information, traffic condition information is collected from mobile units that provide their location or position information. Further, route information may be utilized to determine whether a mobile unit is allowed or prohibited from traveling along a certain route. U.S. patent number 6,728,612, teaches an automated telematics test system and method. The invention provides a method and system testing a telematics system in a mobile vehicle a test command from a test center to a call center is based on a test script. The mobile vehicle is continuously in contact by way of cellular communication networks with a remotely located host computer. [0024] U.S. patent numbered 6,947,817, discloses a non-intrusive diagnostic tool for sensing oxygen sensor operation. The system includes an oxygen analyzer deployed in a mobile vehicle that communicates by way of an access point to a remotely located server. A diagnostic heuristic is used to analyze the data and confirm proper operation of the sensor.

[0025] Similar patents which may be relevant include U.S. patent numbers:

6,735,503; 6,739,078; 6,760,757; 6,810,362; 6,832,141; and 6,850,823. [0026] U.S. patent 6,928,348 discloses a system in which Internet based emission tests are performed on vehicles having special wireless couplings to computer networks. Data may be further transferred to entities of particular interest including the EPA or California Air Resources Board, for example, or particular insurance companies and other organizations concerned with vehicle emissions and environment. [0027] U.S. patent number 6,636,790 describes an OBD system coupled to a microprocessor, by way of a standard electrical connector. The microprocessor periodically receives data and transmits using a wireless communications system characterizing the vehicle performance. The patent specifically calls out transmission of data on a predetermined time interval. Thus these inventions do not anticipate nor include processing and analysis steps which result in data being passed at times other than the expiration of a predetermined time period.

[0028] U.S. patent number 6,732,031 describes systems in which motor vehicles are coupled by wireless communications links to remote host servers. [0029] U.S. patent application publication 2006/0095175 describes a comprehensive systems having many important components. In particular, the system is a 'crash survivable apparatus' in which information may be processed and recorded for later transmission into related coupled systems. The capability to rate a driver's performance based upon captured data is a particular feature of the system, as is described in some detail.

[0030] U.S. patent number 6,831,556 describes composite mobile digital information system including a mobile server capable of transmitting captured information from a vehicle to a second location such as a building. In particular, a surveillance system for capturing video, audio, and data information is provided in a vehicle.

[0031] U.S. patent publication no. 2005/0099498 titled "Digital Video System-

Intelligent Information Management System" describes a digital video information management system for monitoring and managing a system of digital collection devices. A central database receives similar information from a plurality of distributed systems. [0032] U.S. patent publication no. 2005/0100329 titled "Mobile and Vehicle-

Based Digital Video System" describes a vehicle based video capture and management system with digital recording devices optimized for field use. Because these systems deploy non-removable media for memory, they are necessarily coupled to data handling systems via various communications links to convey captured data to analysis servers. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0033] It is a primary object of these inventions to provide advanced recording and reporting systems for motor vehicle exception events.

[0034] It is an object of these inventions to provide automated vehicle operator performance measure, recording and reporting systems.

[0035] It is a further object to provide automated vehicle operator performance tracking and history systems.

[0036] These and other objections are provided by vehicle operator performance history recording and reporting system including devices and methods for automatically collecting and processing data over time to form a driver history report comprising performance information collected over a discrete time period.

[0037] Vehicle event recorders arranged to capture data relating to a particular event are additionally coupled to a system which forms an association between collected data and the vehicle operator. These systems further provide means for long-term storage of data relating to particular operators and events. Special recall operations executed against data stored as described, permits compilation of an operator performance report including a single value performance score. The single value operator performance score is indicative of a vehicle operator's performance and safety history. [0038] A special system is provided to connect and associate collected data to the operator responsible for triggering an event. Once an appropriate association is made, information is kept in long-term storage where it may be joined by data from events occurring at a later time. An analyzer system operates to recall data, particularly data from a plurality of events all associated with a single operator but recorded over an extended period of time. Data is arranged in a manner such that algorithms and other mathematical analysis may be applied independently to various data elements or "fields" to produce performance metrics and ratios. Together, these factors may each be weighted and summed in accordance with specially devised formulae including those having a single value solution. In best versions, this performance score may be normalized to a value between one and zero, where values closer to one represent the best operators enrolled in the program and values nearer zero reflect those operators of lowest performance. Thus, these systems provide a highly useful metric which quantifies operator performance history. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING FIGURES

[0039] A better understanding can be had with reference to detailed description of preferred embodiments and with reference to appended drawings. Embodiments presented are particular ways to realize these inventions and are not inclusive of all ways possible. Therefore, there may exist embodiments that do not deviate from the spirit and scope of this disclosure as set forth by appended claims, but do not appear here as specific examples. It will be appreciated that a great plurality of alternative versions are possible. [0040] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims and drawings in which:

Figure 1 is top-level block diagram showing the primary elements of the system;

Figure 2 is an exemplary collection of datasets associated with a particular operator;

Figure 3 is a more detailed block of the system of Figure 1 ; Figure 4 is a simplified block diagram of the method of operation of the systems of Figure 1 and 3; and

Figure 5 shows Figure 4 in more detail.

GLOSSARY OF SPECIAL TERMS

[0041] Throughout this disclosure, reference is made to some terms which may or may not be exactly defined in popular dictionaries as they are defined here. To provide a more precise disclosure, the following terms are presented with a view to clarity so that the true breadth and scope of the invention may be more readily appreciated. Although every attempt is made to be precise and thorough, it is a necessary condition that not all meanings associated with each term can be completely set forth. Accordingly, each term is intended to also include its common meaning which may be derived from general usage within the pertinent arts or by dictionary meaning. Where the presented definition is in conflict with a dictionary or arts definition, one must use the context of use and liberal discretion to arrive at the intended meaning.

[0042] Vehicle Event Recorder - A vehicle event recorder (VER) is an electronic instrument coupled to an automobile and its environments to capture data in response to a detected exception or prescribed condition, or 'event'.

[0043] Vehicle Operator - The term 'operator', 'vehicle operator', or 'driver' herein mean a person who operates or has operated a motor vehicle. For purposes of these inventions, a vehicle operator has one and only one unique identifying code associated therewith.

[0044] Event - An exception event, or event, occurs in a discrete time period surrounding detection of a prescribed condition. An exception event is declared upon the change in state of a trigger mechanism which may be coupled to manual or automatic means of activating the trigger mechanism. An example of an exception event of particular interest, a vehicle involved in a crash subject high impact forces causes an accelerometer type trigger to be toggled resulting in a data capture action where data collected both before and after the event is captured and stored. [0045] Event Record - An 'event record' is captured data associated with a particular event relating to the use and performance of an automobile including video and discrete numeric data.

[0046] Event Record Dataset - An event record dataset is a combination of an event record, a vehicle operator identifier and an association between the two. [0047] Report - A report is an output compiled from information stored in time from a plurality of exception events captured separately over an extended period. [0048] Single Value Score - A single value score is a vehicle operator performance parameter or metric expressed as a single numerical value. PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THESE INVENTIONS

[0049] In accordance with each of the preferred embodiments of these inventions, apparatus for and methods of vehicle operator performance history as provided recording and reporting.

[0050] Vehicle event recorders are arranged to capture video and discrete numeric data associated with a specific exception event in connection with a trigger; the captured video relating in-part to vehicle and driver performance. A vehicle event recorder also captures vehicle systems status information similarly in connection with a triggered event. Together, these data form an 'event record', which is effectively a detailed documentation of conditions relating to the event.

[0051] While a vehicle event recorder may include digitized and system status information, the data is not otherwise associated or connected with any vehicle operator. That is, an event record does not include attachment to the vehicle operator. Vehicle event recorders and their associated processing systems heretofore have not included automated means of identifying a unique driver. In some versions, event recorders of the arts may include one or more images of a driver, images from which a driver identity might be taken in a mental step process, i.e., a human recognition process, event recorders otherwise contain no discrete identity information with respect to operators. [0052] In the systems first presented, a system component is an associator arranged to receive event records, further to receive discrete identity information from an operator ID system, and to form an association between the two thus connecting and joining them as an event record dataset. The associator, then transmits the dataset to a database for long-term storage. An analyzer may query the database to fetch select records in accordance with a particular request design. In some preferred versions, such requests may come from a user interface which permits human configuration of such requests.

[0053] Datasets/resultset may be recalled and transmitted from the database to the analyzer which includes an algorithm library. These datasets/resultset are formed of many elements or sometimes "data fields." Algorithms may include mathematical operations which operate with regard to a particular data field or fields to produce a desired output. For example, when a group of datasets are recalled each having the same operator as defined by the operator ID, an algorithm may be applied to make a determination as to driving performance with particular regard to a specific vehicle operator. For instance, a group of data sets, all relating to different events associated with the same driver can be analyzed for speed violations. It may be determined, for example, that a particular driver had three speed violations during the last month. A report reflecting such a determination may be prepared as a measure of operator performance. [0054] The system is comprised of the primary elements including: and associator, a database, and an analyzer. The associator receives input event records and vehicle operator identification information. The associator forms an association between these data elements. Operator identification information which identifies a "current operator", i.e., the operator who is operating the vehicle at the time of the occurrence of a declared exception event. Event record information is produced as a result of the event having occurred. Thus, it is some instant in time which connects a vehicle operator with captured event data. The associator forms the event record dataset and transmits that dataset as output to a database with which it is in communication. [0055] The database is arranged to receive event record datasets in a form which contain information about the physical nature of a vehicle and its environment during an event; information about driver/vehicle identity, as well as an association between these information records, whereby precisely one driver identity is associated with each event. The database is further arranged to provide output in response to requests or queries from exterior data consumers. Responses may be provided whereby a search filtered on specific indices produces a resultset comprising a plurality of datasets with a common factor; a unique vehicle operator for example. In this way, the database may provide a resultset to an analyzer of all events having an association with a specific driver. Of course, the database may be queried for other data or information. [0056] An analyzer is communicatively coupled to the database so that it may make queries or requests for information and further receive data provided as database responses. The analyzer is provided with means to process the received data to form statistical results. The analyzer might apply selected algorithms to the received data to yield a mathematical conclusion. [0057] Thus, an associator is arranged to receive event records, receive identification information, and to form an association therebetween thus forming prescribed data sets, and to transmit those datasets to a database of suitable structure. The database is arranged to pass resultsets to an analyzer which applies various analyses in producing a statistical representation of a plurality of associated events. These are the primary elements of preferred versions of these systems.

[0058] While the preceding description presents in detail some important key elements and their relationships with others, important minority elements are also present and arranged to cooperate with those key elements as well as other minority elements. Minority elements include: operator/vehicle identification systems; vehicle event recorders; vehicle systems sensors and transducers; event trigger; user interface; algorithm library; operator performance measure reports; and finally an operator performance coefficient.

[0059] In these systems, some preferred versions include means of conveyance of vehicle operator identity. Vehicle operator identity must first be discretized and further must be unique with respect to each person authorized to operate suitably equipped vehicles. While persons in a room, each being familiar with the other, may identify which of the others is "Fred", such human recognition is a straightforward operation for the human mind - but providing unique identities of persons in computer systems demand a bit of overhead. A discrete value identity code assignment is made for each valid operator. When an operator initiates use of a vehicle, an operator ID system determines the identity code associated with the operator and provides it to the associator. [0060] In some preferred implementations, operator ID systems include a tactile input which permits users to express their identity by a key pad entry. Once a user keys in his/her code, the operator identity system can thereafter report accurately to the associator who is operating the vehicle. Events occurring during periods following ID entry can be properly allocated to the actual operator of the vehicle. Other operator ID schemes may be deployed in alternative versions of operator ID systems. In one such alternative, a scheduling program may assign a particular driver a particular vehicle on a certain day and at a certain time report the assignment to the operator ID system which then passes the ID info into the associator as it receives event records. Accordingly, some operator ID systems are "on-board" and some are "off-board." While in some preferred versions it is anticipated that an operator ID system will be established as an on-board system integrated with a vehicle event recorder; it is important to point out that it is entirely possible to create an alternative in which the operator ID system is instead deployed as a subsystem exterior to the vehicle and vehicle event recorder. [0061] An event record dataset is prepared by the associator for long-term storage in a database. An event record dataset includes an event record; an operator identifier and sometimes a vehicle identifier; and an association therebetween. As soon as event record data is joined with an operator/vehicle identifier, it is an event record dataset for purposes of this disclosure.

[0062] Since an event record arises from a single event in which only one operator may be on station, there exists a certain 'one-to-one' correspondence between any vehicle operator and any single event record. However many event record datasets may be compiled over time and each of those may include the same operator. So, there is a One-to-many' relationship between any vehicle operator and the event record datasets which may be stored in a database. In fact, an event record dataset only comes into existence as a result of an event having occurred and in these systems it is preferred that for each event which occurs, an event record dataset is formed.

[0063] An analyzer further includes an algorithm library. An algorithm library is a stored set of algorithms which may be selectively invoked and applied to a group of datasets. Algorithms may be applied individually, or may be applied serially one after another. A properly arranged algorithm applied to a select group of datasets can yield a performance metric result. In a preferred version, an operator performance measure output is generated as a result of applying an algorithm to a select group of datasets. An operator performance measure may include statistical compilation and presentation of data analysis which reflects performance with regard to a particular operator, a group of operators, a vehicle or a group of vehicles.

[0064] An operator or vehicle performance report ("O/V-PR") is a report containing statistical information regarding the performance of a vehicle operator or a vehicle. An operator performance report is an output from an analyzer which applies any of a prescribed group of algorithms to a plurality of event record dataset records; those datasets having been created over some extended period of time. Thus an O/V-PR is an historical account of events having occurred with particular connection to a certain driver or vehicle. Exception events which may occur from time-to-time result in production of data describing and documenting the event. Those data are associated with a particular operator identity and stored over time. An analyzer applies certain algorithms to data recalled from memory to produce a statistical report; an O/V-PR is therefore a compilation of analyzed data to produce results which expresses the historical nature of a vehicle operator's or vehicle's performance. An O/V-PR may be based upon all events captured over a specified period of time and is sometimes comprised of a plurality of weighted factors.

[0065] Fig. 1 is a simplified block diagram of system 10 in accordance with principles of the present invention. Systems 10 comprises associator 12, connected via communications link 13 to computer based relational database 14, further in communication with an analyzer 16. Associator 12 is arranged to receive data in the form of event record 17, as well as operator identification data 18 optionally, associator 12 may receive vehicle identification information (not shown).

[0066] Associator 12 aggregates the event record and operator identification to form an event record dataset. A single event record dataset is a data structure which preserves the association between the event record and the operator/vehicle identification information and which further supports storage and manipulation by a relational database system. The arrangement of information may be embodied as a dataset which is assigned an 'index' or 'key' value to further assure and maintain the integrity of the information collected as a single unit. Analyzer 16 is in two-way communication with database 14 such that it can run queries against data stored therein and receive resultsets after those queries are executed. Finally, analyzer 16 is arranged to assemble, process, and analyze results received from the database and to output an operator performance measure. [0067] A vehicle event recorder captures data relative to the operational states of vehicle subsystems as well as video images of environments about a vehicle while in use. Operational states of a vehicle may be reported to the vehicle event recorder by way of an on-board diagnostics system ("OBD") which monitors various sensors to monitor vehicle subsystems. Data is continually captured by the vehicle event recorder. Upon detection of a special circumstance or unusual condition. A trigger may be devised to detect an unusual physical condition such as heavy shock or excessive speed. Upon detection of the condition, the trigger declares an exception event and initiates a data capture operation. An exception event is declared and the data capture action is performed during a brief time around the declared event moment. This captured information is connected with the particular vehicle operator authorized to use the vehicle at the time the information is captured by way of an operator identity code. Together, this information is stored at the database as a single information unit or 'record'.

[0068] While it is possible to perform limited analysis on single event records, the true value of these systems is only realized when a plurality of events are analyzed via mathematical relationships which are applied to common elements (fields) between separate records captured at various times. That is, a first event record is stored in the database until another independent event occurs and that event record data is also added to the database. Under such circumstances, certain algorithms become very useful in expressing the performance quality of a particular operator or group of operators. The database may be arranged to receive records for many different operators, different vehicles, and even different fleets of vehicles. When analysis is performed, records may be sorted and included/excluded from analysis on the basis of many considerations embodied as data fields.

[0069] Fig. 2 shows an illustrative database grid comprising 11 separate dataset records collected over a period of time. All of the data sets are associated with a unique vehicle operator 21 identified as "Jones." The illustrative event data record includes column 21 for identifying the operator, column 22 to indicate whether an infraction occurred, column 23 to indicate whether the operator was speeding, and column 24 to indicate whether there was an accident relating to whether an infraction 22 is involved, whether it is a speeding 23 case, and whether the event involves an accident 24. hi addition, the date 25 of the event is recorded and a 'miles-year-to-date' 26 numeric value is included as part of the dataset. The data grid presented is for illustration purposes only and the reader will readily understand that any real system would certainly include many more data fields which contribute ultimately to an expression of an operator performance measure. For example, detailed speed data, braking and acceleration measurements, engine speed, steering position, et cetera. These factors and many others are omitted from Figure 2 for reasons of clarity, but are explicitly meant to be included as part of any high performance system.

[0070] In Figure 2, each record belongs to the vehicle operator identified as

'Jones' 27. Binary indication marks 28 denote the date the record captured on 07/14/05 as one in which the exception event is characterized as including a speeding incident. The event record captured 09/08/05 includes data 29 which indicates the event was classified as an 'accident'. An event record of these example systems preferably includes date and mileage information which is useful for providing 'related rate' type performance measures. For example, we can use two separate event records 210, applying subtraction analysis therebetween to conclude that Jones has committed two speeding violations in a 31 day period. Another way to express Jones' performance with regard to speeding is to consider the mileage and compute a "speeding infractions per mile" measure. From the data shown Jones has committed two speeding violations in 248 miles or approximately .8 violations per hundred miles. Of course, considering the entire recorded history, Jones commits .02 speeding violations per hundred miles (3 x 100/14845). These illustrate very simplified mathematical analysis between related (by operator) event records which may be used to derive or express a driver performance measure.

[0071] It is important to direct attention to the automated nature of these systems.

While it may not be precisely novel to merely compute "violations per mile" in connection with some particular vehicle operator, these systems stand alone and in stark contrast as they are based upon automated collection of event data in response to a triggered exception event and automated association of the captured data and the identity of operators to which it belongs. Further, these systems are based upon analysis which may be applied to so captured organized and stored data to yield a vehicle operator performance measure which expresses the quality of a vehicle operator. All systems not having vehicle mounted trigger event data capture devices, rely on manual manipulation and management of information to arrive at similar descriptions of driver performance. Presently one need only visit the local Department of Motor Vehicles to receive a computerized record of driving performance from data stored this way. However this record of driving performance is not compiled from automated systems which connect user identity with data captured in real-time on a vehicle mounted system. [0072] A better appreciation of the invention may be realized in after further consideration of the block diagram of Fig. 3. Associator 31 is coupled to database 32 and analyzer 33 as shown. Associator 31 receive event records 34 from vehicle event recorder 35. When an event trigger 36 fires, an exception event is declared and data from camera 37, and various vehicle substem copuled sensors 38 is captured by vehicle event recorder 35: Captured data is assembled into an event record including both discrete numeric data, such as speed, and non-discrete data, such as video images. In addition to receiving event records from time-to-time, associator 31 also is coupled to vehicle event recorder 35 to receive operator identity information and, optionally vehicle identity information. Operator identity system 39 passes to associator 31 a unique identifier assigned to precisely one vehicle operator. Optionally, vehicle identity system 310 may pass vehicle identity information to associator 31. Associator 31 thereafter effects a connection or association between a received event record and a vehicle operator identity to perfect event record dataset 311. Event record dataset 311 is comprised of event record data, operator and/or vehicle identity information, and an association between the two. This information is passed to a data storage system configured as a database, such as a relational database. Event record dataset 311 is inserted into the database as a new record having a unique index value or sequence number to distinguish it from any other record in the database.

[0073] In a preferred embodiment, analyzer 33 may include user interface 312 which may be used to call prepared algorithms from an algorithm library 313 or, alternatively, may be used to manually form query 314 which can be run against data stored in the database. Alternatively, procedures, such as "stored procedures" in the database, may be called by analyzer 33 in response to user inputs received at user interface 312. Upon successful execution of a query or stored procedure, resultset 315 is passed back to the analyzer. A resultset can be used to drive external systems. In a first instance, a resultset can be used in a simple report 317 which expresses an operator performance measure. Just as financial and credit worthiness are measured via a so called 'FICO' score, the systems of the present invention will permit professional drivers to be easily measured and evaluated based on numerical a performance score or measure. The systems will likely be adopted early by professional fleets and their employees; however, it is anticipated that all drivers will benefit from such systems to measure vehicle operator performance.

[0074] Resultsets may also be compared to prescribed threshold values and actions taken based upon the results of such comparisons. That is when an operator performance value or coefficient 318 exceeds or otherwise fails to meet a performance standard, an action may be set into motion. For example, if the driver performance value falls below some predetermined level, a driver may be subject to a counseling session. Thus, the resultsets can be used to automate a program of driver education and guidance in response to poor driving as detected in a vehicle event recorder. [0075] Methods of the present invention are illustrated by the block diagrams of

Figs. 4 and 5. In a first process, an associator receives event record 41 from a vehicle event recorder in response to a triggered event, including data captured during the event. The associator also receives 42 identity information with respect to a vehicle operator and/or vehicles. An association is formed 43 to connect the captured data which characterizes the event to the vehicle operator who was operating the vehicle at the time of the event. A machine processable identity code, for example, is joined with the video and other data to form a complete event record dataset. A complete event record dataset is then conveyed 44 to a relational database system. The database system receives event record datasets from the associator and stores 45 them in durable memory. Preferably, each received event record data set is automatically assigned a unique identifier process loop 46 resets the vehicle event recorder to be ready to receive additional event record datasets upon subsequent event triggers. Note that subsequent event record datasets are not related in time to the earlier received conveyance (e.g. not recorded at fixed intervals). [0076] The database system conveys 47 resultsets to the analyzer for the application various of algorithms and mathematical analyses 48. In a preferred version of the invention, the analyzer queries the database system or calls stored procedures therein to produce specific resultsets. The resultset may be output (step) 49. For example, in the form of a report including an operation performance measure. Alternatively, the result set may be set to an external system for further processing or action if a performance measure exceeds a prescribed value. This may be as simple as sending an e-mail warning via an electronic mail server (i.e., the external system).

[0077] Fig. 5 illustrates these methods in more detail. An associator forms an association 51 between event data including video and numeric data captured to characterize an exception event related to a motor vehicle. The event record dataset is stored 52 with a unique identifier via an index scheme whereby the data can be sorted and processed as distinguishable from all similar records. Mathematical analysis may be applied 53 to a collection of event records stored in the database to produce an output 54 to a display, printer or other external system.

[0078] The method of Fig. 5 starts in response to an event trigger 55 of a vehicle event recorder which indicates the occurrence of an exception. In response thereto, video data is preserved 56 from periods before and after time of the event. In addition, discrete value data is also collected 57 from electronic detectors coupled to various vehicle subsystems. Data characterizing the event is assembled to form an event record 58. The event record is passed 59 to the associator. Which may also receive a user input 510 specifying an authorized operator identity for example at a login keypad or smartcard reader. A coded input prearranged with an association to a particular vehicle operator is received to alert the system as to the identity of the driver. An authorization check 511 may be used to verify a valid code. The current vehicle operator identity is conveyed 512 to the associator any time an event occurs such that it may be appropriately combined with and connected to the event data. The associator modifies the event record by adding operator and optionally vehicle identity information, to form an event record dataset. The dataset is arranged in a form suitable for use with relational database structures including data types and indices such that when conveyed to the database via an "insert" operation, the data is placed in table(s) as one of a plurality of similarly arranged records. The method may be executed repeatedly in a loop to effect capture of many event record datasets.

[0079] The method continues with the analysis of collected data. An analyzer is arranged to read and process database records especially as applied to a particular vehicle operator. The system can consider a plurality of event records each associated with an operator. Accordingly, the analyses yield valuable performance indicators related to a vehicle operator.

[0080] In a preferred embodiment, the analyzer includes an administrator workstation having a graphical user interface 514 to control 515 the analysis. A database query is formed 516 and transmitted 517 to the database to be applied against the stored data. After execution of the query, the database produces and returns 518 a resultset back to the analyzer.

[0081] From the administrator workstation, an appropriate algorithm is selected

519 and applied to the resultset to further process the data. One important algorithm includes forming an operator performance report 520 which reflects the quality of performance of a single or selected group of vehicle operators. In addition to a compound report which may include many separate factors, a single value performance score may be computed 521. Separate performance measures are combined via weighted coefficients to arrive at a normalized single-value score. The score is particularly valuable because it is easily standardized and permits a relative single-value basis upon which all participating drivers may be accurately compared. For example, highest performance driver in the system may be assigned a score of 1 and all others some value between 1 and 0 to reflect their performance in relation to the universe of operators. [0082] A vehicle operator performance measure may be provided by a system having an associator; a data store; and an analyzer. The associator 'connects' or forms an association between event records and an operator identity as part of a dataset which is transmitted to the data store. An analyzer is arranged to apply mathematical processing and analysis against stored datasets to produce a vehicle operator performance measure. [0083] In a vehicle event recorder, an exception event results in the capture of information which may be used to characterize the event and status of the vehicle and operator. Once information relating to a particular event is captured, that information is associated with a particular vehicle operator to form a dataset suitable for long term storage in a database. Events taking place at a later time which might be similarly stored, may include the same vehicle operator. As such, it is possible to run a statistical analysis on all events associated with a particular vehicle operator and to draw performance algorithms which yield a performance measure type result. For example, a first performance measure might simply include the number of events that occurred per mile driven. Another performance indicator might be the number of crash-type incidents per mile driven. An more complex algorithm might include both of these measures and a weighting factor for each. For example: performance measure = (Events/Mile)* 3 + (Crashes/Mile)* 8 where 3 and 8 are weighting factors.

[0084] As such, an associator is a subsystem arranged to form a connection between information captured in an event and information which uniquely identifies a vehicle operator; namely the vehicle operator responsible for the vehicle at the time of the event. An associator comprises a logic processor arranged to receive both event data information and operator identity information and to assemble that information for storage in a database. A database record structure having a one-to-one correspondence between events and vehicle operators is an example of an enforced relationship in such record structures prepared by an associator.

[0085] An analyzer is provided with a prior knowledge of these data structures such that it might analyze several event records; associated with a particular vehicle operator or vehicle operator group. An analyzer might include a graphical user interface, a query facility, and an algorithm library as part of its subsystems. The graphical user interface can be arranged to receive inputs from a user, to drive query formation in agreement with received inputs, and further to select algorithms from the algorithm library. In this way, an analyzer reads and processes stored event data to formulate a result which is a vehicle operator performance measure.

[0086] The systems for producing a vehicle operator performance measure may include a set of electronic transducers coupled to various of the vehicle environments and systems to capture information relating to vehicle operation or performance. Outputs from these electronic transducers are assembled together as event records which may be taken up by the associator. By example, these sensors may include any of those from the group, imager, accelerometer, speedometer, position, orientation, time, and any of standard vehicle systems status indicators including engine speed, temperature, braking, gear ratio, and steering wheel position.

[0087] In addition to these electronic transducers, a system also includes an operator identity system to make discrete and provide an indication which expresses a vehicle operator's identity. The vehicle operator's identity may be conveyed from the operator identity system to the associator where that identity indicator may become associated with various event data.

[0088] In a more complete sense, these systems are considered to also include the vehicle event recorder which has at least one imager, memory, and an event trigger. The vehicle event recorder is arranged to produce event records in response to an event trigger. The event trigger not only causes information from said sensors to be captured, but also causes the information to be associated with a particular vehicle operator. [0089] In a performed embodiment, an operator identity system includes a memory with stored values each associated with at least one particular vehicle operator. The operator identity system may be at least partly integrated with a vehicle event recorder; or in contrast may be implemented in part at a download server. [0090] This invention disclosure also includes methods. In particular, these methods may be expressed in general terms as including the following steps. A 'receiving an event record' step where a vehicle event recorder captures information relating to a declared exception event, i.e., in response to a trigger; for example a video record of environments about a subject vehicle and sensor data relating to a vehicles systems. A 'receiving identity information' step is performed where a discrete indication of a particular vehicle operator, or a unique identifier assigned to a particular vehicle or vehicle fleet, is received at an associator where the associator performs the next step. [0091] A 'forming an association' step connects the event record with received vehicle operator identity information thus forming a dataset record having: event record, identity information, and the association therebetween. A well-formed database record might include: event record information, identity information, and an association therebetween. The database record includes a plurality of field elements, each field element having a prescribed data type and value assigned thereto, the values reflecting information received as an event record and identity information. [0092] Further, the methods include storing the dataset record in a database for long term storage. Ideally, for a term long enough where other event records are also added to the database. Each dataset record has information from an event record captured at a time different than the capture time of all other dataset records. [0093] Dataset records are recalled in a query step where they may be sorted and selectively chosen in accordance with an index - for example, all event records of the month of September associated with a certain driver. Upon the carefully selected records recalled as described, a mathematical analysis may be applied to produce an output which might reflect a vehicle operators performance, executing an algorithm to realize a ratio between the resultant of two algorithms applied to two different field elements. [0094] A mathematical analysis is applied in a method step directed to address any plurality of event records. An prescribed algorithm arranged to effect a ratio between any two field elements is particularly useful in expressing some driver performance measures and those are explicitly part of these teachings. A ratio with a time based unit in the denominator is exemplary. For example, the "number of infractions per year" is a ratio of considerable importance for expressing a driver performance. Another is "number of infractions per mile." Of course, reciprocals are equally effective in expressing the same information and are considered included alternatives. [0095] Results from mathematical analysis may be expressed in several ways including real-time graphical display, printed reports, as inputs to triggers. Thus, methods of these inventions include 'providing an output report' step is further characterized as a report having a plurality of resultants produced by application of the mathematical analysis. [0096] A driver performance report of particular importance includes a single- value performance coefficient which is derived from the results of and plurality of analysis. Weighted coefficients applied to algorithm resultants form basis for such single-value output in best arrangements.

[0097] One will now fully appreciate how video event recording systems provide foundation for systems which yield driver performance measures. Although the present inventions have been described in considerable detail with clear and concise language and with reference to certain preferred versions thereof including best modes anticipated by the inventors, other versions are possible. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the invention should not be limited by the description of the preferred versions contained therein, but rather by the claims appended hereto.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. Apparatus for producing a measure of the performance of a vehicle operator, the apparatus comprising: a data store; an associator configured to receive an event record and an indicator of operator identity, to form a dataset comprising the event record and operator identity, and to transmit the dataset to said data store; and an analyzer configured to retrieve at least one dataset from said data store associated with the vehicle operator, and to analyze the at least one dataset to produce a vehicle operator performance measure.

2. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a plurality of sensors disposed in a vehicle, each sensor being configured to sense, capture, and digitize information relating to vehicle operation or performance.

3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the associator is coupled to the plurality of sensors, and the outputs from the sensors are received together as an event record by the associator.

4. The apparatus of claim 3, further comprising an operator identity system, wherein the associator is coupled to the operator identity system to receive an indication of the operator identity.

5. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein the plurality of sensors are selected from the group comprising: an imager; an accelerometer; a speedometer; a position sensor; an orientation sensor; a clock; an engine speed sensor, a temperature sensor ; a braking sensor; a gear ratio sensor; and a steering position sensor.

6. The apparatus of claim 3 further comprising a vehicle event recorder comprising at least one imager, a memory; and an event detector, wherein the vehicle event recorder is configured to produce an event record in response to a detection of a predefined event.

7. The apparatus of claim 2 further comprising an event detector, wherein information from the plurality of sensors is captured as a portion of an event record responsive to the detection of an event.

8. The apparatus of claim 2 further comprising an event detector, wherein information from a video recorder to be captured as a portion of an event record responsive to the detection of an event.

9. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the associator is coupled to an operator identity system such that information which uniquely identifies an operator is conveyed to the associator.

10. The apparatus of claim 9, wherein said operator identity system includes a memory with stored values associated with at least one particular operator.

11. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein said operator identity system is integrated with a vehicle event recorder.

12. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein said operator identity system is integrated download server.

13. Apparatus for providing a performance measure for operators of vehicles comprising: a source of event records; an operator identity system; a data store; an associator having input coupled to the source of event records and the operator identity system and an output coupled to the data store; and an analyzer having an input coupled to the data store and an output configured to provide a performance measure indicative of the driving performance of a particular operator.

14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the associator comprises a logic processor configured to receive information and assemble information according to a protocol required by the data store.

15. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein the analyzer comprises: a graphical user interface; a query facility; and an algorithm library, wherein the graphical user interface is configured to receive inputs from a user and to formulate queries and to select algorithms responsive to the received inputs.

16. The apparatus of claim 13, further comprising a vehicle event recorder comprising: a video camera; sensors and transducers; an event detector; and a memory, wherein the video camera, sensors and transducers are coupled to the memory via the event detector so that information from the video camera, sensors, and transducers is passed to the memory in response to the detection of a predetermined event.

17. A method of producing an operator performance record, comprising: receiving an event record; receiving identity information; forming a dataset record associating the event record with the identity information; storing said dataset record in a database; recalling a plurality of dataset records from the database; analyzing the recalled plurality of dataset records; and providing an output report responsive to the analysis.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising capturing information related to the vehicle in response to a triggered event, wherein receiving an event record comprises receiving the captured information from an event recorder.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the information captured in response to a triggered event includes a video record of environment of the vehicle.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein receiving identity information comprises receiving a unique identifier assigned to a particular vehicle operator.

21. The method of claim 17, wherein receiving identity information further comprises receiving a unique identifier assigned to a particular vehicle or group of vehicles.

22. The method of claim 17, wherein forming a dataset record comprises creating a well-formed database record including the event record information and the identity information.

23. The method of claim 17, wherein recalling a plurality of dataset records comprises recalling records associated with a specified operator, a specified vehicle, or a specified group of vehicles.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein analyzing the recalled plurality of dataset records comprises executing an algorithm on the plurality of dataset records, wherein each dataset record comprises information from an event record captured at a time different than the capture time of all other dataset records, and wherein the algorithm being applied to a common field of each recalled dataset record.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein analyzing the recalled plurality of dataset records comprises executing an algorithm to realize a ratio between the resultant of two algorithms applied to two different field elements.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein the ratio has either a time based unit or a distance based unit in the denominator.

27. The method of claim 17, wherein providing an output report comprises providing a report comprising a single value operator performance coefficient produced by combining the results of multiple analyses in a predetermined manner.