System and method for vehicle geo-fencing management

Abstract

Systems and methods are provided for allowing remote third parties to obtain data from and / or control one or more geo-fenced vehicles. In some implementations, a method for adjusting desired vehicle operation in a geo-fenced area can include receiving geo-fence data from within a vehicle that includes a location tracking system, and transmitting a notification to a governing authority upon determining that the vehicle has entered a geo-fenced area. Upon receiving a request from the governing authority, the vehicle can perform an action that includes at least one of adjusting an operational parameter of a system within the vehicle that affects movement of the vehicle, adjusting an environmental parameter of a system within the vehicle that relates to sensing of an environment surrounding the vehicle, and transmitting vehicle environmental data to the governing authority, the vehicle environmental data including information about the environment surrounding the vehicle.

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of the application for patent filed on May 14, 2019, application number 201980030687.4, entitled “SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR VEHICLE GEO-FENCE MANAGEMENT”. SUMMARY

[0002] Various embodiments of systems and methods for allowing remote third parties, such as a regulatory agency, to obtain data from and / or control one or more geo-fenced vehicles are disclosed herein. Thus, in some embodiments, the inventive concepts disclosed herein can be used to provide vehicles and / or third parties with dynamic input information or V2X information that cannot be detected by typical vehicle sensors. In some embodiments, when a vehicle enters a geo-fenced area, as can be defined by a regulatory agency or other third party, one or more settings and / or logic parameters can change, or a communication can be made from the regulatory agency to ensure that the vehicle operation matches desired traffic control, legal requirements, local events, or other temporary or permanent restrictions. In some embodiments, the regulatory agency can also be able to control vehicle operation, receive data from remote vehicles to assist with planning, search, or other desired uses.

[0003] In a more particular example of a method for adjusting desired vehicle operation in a geo-fenced area, the method can include receiving geo-fence data from within a vehicle that includes a location tracking system, and transmitting a notification to a regulatory agency upon determining that the vehicle has entered a geo-fenced area. Upon receiving a request from the regulatory agency, the vehicle can perform an action that includes at least one of adjusting an operational parameter of a system within the vehicle that affects movement of the vehicle, adjusting an environmental parameter of a system within the vehicle that relates to sensing of an environment surrounding the vehicle, and transmitting vehicle environmental data to the regulatory agency, the vehicle environmental data including information about the environment surrounding the vehicle.

[0004] In some implementations, the request can include a command or request for information identifying a predetermined target, such as a target vehicle.

[0005] The action can include, for example, adjusting an operational parameter of a remote object detection system of the vehicle, such as a remote object detection system including a radar sensor, a vision camera, and / or a lidar sensor, to increase the likelihood of detecting the target vehicle or other target. In some such implementations, the action can include turning on a hidden function layer within the remote object detection system, such as a hidden function layer configured to search for a predetermined license plate number of a target vehicle or a hidden function layer configured to search for vehicles moving at a speed above a threshold value.

[0006] In another method for providing environmental data from a geofenced vehicle, in accordance with other implementations, the method can include receiving geofencing data from within a vehicle. The vehicle can include a location tracking system and an environmental sensor system configured to generate vehicle environmental data about the environment surrounding the vehicle. After the vehicle enters a geofenced area, a request from a managing authority can be received at the vehicle. Upon receiving the request from the managing authority, parameters of the environmental sensor system can be adjusted remotely and / or automatically by the managing authority or manually by a driver / operator of the vehicle. Vehicle environmental data can be transmitted to the managing authority. Such data can include information about the environment surrounding the vehicle.

[0007] In some implementations, the request can include a request for information identifying a predetermined target vehicle and / or person. Alternatively, the request can include a request for information identifying traffic conditions in the geofenced area.

[0008] In some embodiments and implementations, the environmental sensor system can include a camera, and the step of transmitting vehicle environmental data to the managing authority can include transmitting data from the camera, such as photographs and / or real-time video streams from the camera.

[0009] In some implementations, the step of transmitting vehicle environmental data to the managing authority can include storing environmental data from the environmental sensor system; waiting for a triggering event; and upon detecting the triggering event, transmitting the stored environmental data to the managing authority. The triggering event can include, for example, confirming detection of a target of the managing authority’s request.

[0010] In some implementations, the step of adjusting parameters of the environmental sensor system can include adjusting parameters of an object classification module of the vehicle.

[0011] In an example of a method for changing vehicle operation of a geofenced vehicle, the method can include receiving geofencing data from within a vehicle including a location tracking system; and determining whether the vehicle has entered a geofenced area defined by the geofencing data, the geofenced area of the geofencing data can be defined by and correspond to at least one of an area of relatively high traffic density, an area associated with an accident, and an area of a temporary event. Upon determining that the vehicle has entered the geofenced area, a notification can be transmitted to a managing authority. A command can then be received from the managing authority. The vehicle, driver, and / or operator can respond to the command by an action, such as an action designed to change a desired movement of the vehicle.

[0012] In some implementations, the action can include adjusting an operational parameter of the vehicle that affects movement of the vehicle, such as actuating a brake of the vehicle, limiting a speed of the vehicle, adjusting a steering of the vehicle, and / or preventing the vehicle from further moving.

[0013] In some implementations, the action can include providing an instruction or a warning to an operator of the vehicle, such as actuating a light, actuating a haptic warning device, providing an audible warning sound, and / or providing a verbal instruction to the operator of the vehicle.

[0014] The vehicle can include an environmental sensor system configured to generate vehicle environmental data about an environment surrounding the vehicle. The method can further include receiving a request from the governing authority after the vehicle enters the geo-fenced area. Upon receiving the request from the governing authority, the governing authority, vehicle, or driver / operator can adjust a parameter of the environmental sensor system.

[0015] Features, structures, steps, or characteristics disclosed herein in connection with one embodiment can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more alternative embodiments. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0016] Non-limiting and non-exhaustive embodiments of the present disclosure are described including various embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the following figures:

[0017] Figure 1 An example of a system for adjusting desired vehicle operation in a geo-fenced area is shown in accordance with some embodiments;

[0018] Figure 2 Another example of a system for adjusting desired vehicle operation in a geo-fenced area is shown in accordance with other embodiments;

[0019] Figure 3 Yet another example of a system for adjusting desired vehicle operation in a geo-fenced area is shown in accordance with additional embodiments;

[0020] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing a method for adjusting desired vehicle operation in a geo-fenced area in accordance with some implementations; and

[0021] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of a vehicle including a system for allowing a governing authority to provide requests, commands, instructions, and / or remote operation of a vehicle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] A detailed description of devices, systems and methods in accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure is provided below. Although several embodiments are described, it is understood that the present disclosure is not limited to any particular embodiment disclosed, but encompasses numerous alternatives, modifications, and equivalents. Additionally, while numerous specific details are set forth in the following description in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments disclosed herein, some embodiments can be practiced without some or all of these details. Moreover, for the purpose of clarity, certain technical material known per se is not described in detail in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure.

[0023] Disclosed herein are devices, methods, and systems relating to obtaining information from, making requests to, and / or controlling remote vehicles within a geo-fenced area defined by a managing authority or other remote third party. In some embodiments, the inventive principles disclosed herein can be used to allow a managing authority to search for different objects, such as vehicles and individuals, control traffic, etc. during a particular event associated with the geo-fenced area.

[0024] Embodiments of the present disclosure can be best understood with reference to the following drawings wherein like parts are referred to with like reference numerals throughout the various figures. It will be readily understood that the components of the disclosed embodiments, as generally described and illustrated in the figures herein, can be arranged and designed in a wide variety of different configurations. Thus, the following detailed description of the embodiments of devices and methods of the present disclosure is not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure, but is merely representative of some embodiments of the present disclosure. Additionally, unless otherwise specified, the steps of the methods need not be performed in any particular order, or even sequentially, and need not be performed at all, and the steps need not be performed only once. Additional details regarding certain preferred embodiments and implementations will now be described in greater detail with reference to the figures.

[0025] Figure 1 is a schematic and flowchart depicting an example of a system 100 for adjusting desired vehicle operations in a geo-fenced area in accordance with some embodiments, as well as various steps of the inventive method in accordance with particular implementations of the present invention. As shown, a managing authority 102, such as a police force, government agency, other government entity, or in other embodiments and implementations, a business / corporate managing authority, such as an individual or department of a business or other corporation that may, for example, be responsible for overseeing a fleet of vehicles for the corporation, can receive, generate, input, and / or transmit data related to a particular event at 104. Examples of such events can include, for example, a traffic accident, road construction, a terrorist action or threat, an indication and / or prediction of inclement weather, a fugitive or criminal activity, an indication of traffic congestion, etc.

[0026] The authority 102 can then define, at 106, a zone associated with the event 104, and in some embodiments and implementations, other parameters associated with the event 104, which zone can correspond to or at least involve a geofenced area. Thus, in some embodiments and implementations, the authority 102 can define, at 106, the boundaries of the zone associated with the event 104, such as a traffic congestion zone, a fugitive's location, a zone associated with an AMBER TM alert, etc. The geofenced area can include precisely defined boundaries specific to a particular event, or can include more generally defined and / or permanent boundaries, such as all vehicles within a particular country, city, state, etc.

[0027] As discussed in greater detail below, in some embodiments and implementations, the authority 102 can continuously or periodically maintain the location of one or more vehicles within a fleet / group substantially or only when within the geofenced area. This information can be obtained and / or maintained by, for example, on-board geolocation devices and communication protocols, which can be integrated into the vehicles, or which can be retrofitted into or otherwise used with such vehicles.

[0028] The authority 102 can also define other parameters associated with the zone, such as a time window, which can correspond to the event 104, such as a range of time within which the authority 102 expects the vehicle and / or person to be located within the defined boundaries, or a range of time within which a concert or other event is expected to occur and / or cause increased traffic stress.

[0029] After defining the geofenced area, the authority 102 can remotely change one or more features, parameters, functions, and / or aspects of a particular vehicle or group of vehicles, at 108. For example, in some embodiments and implementations, the authority 102 can issue a request and / or command, such as, in some embodiments, a command that results in an action designed to change the desired movement of one or more vehicles. Examples of such actions include actuating the brakes of one or more vehicles, limiting the speed of one or more vehicles, adjusting the steering of one or more vehicles, and preventing one or more vehicles from further movement. Then, at 110, one or more vehicles can adopt the settings or other commands from the authority 102.

[0030] In some embodiments, a process for accepting the command / request can be implemented. For example, in some embodiments, a vehicle operator can have the option to accept or reject the command. In some embodiments, the ability of the vehicle operator to accept or reject the command can vary depending on the event and / or type of command. In other embodiments, the fleet can be configured to be unable to reject commands, in which case the method can include automatically proceeding from step 108 to step 110.

[0031] To provide a more specific example, in some embodiments, the regulatory authority 102 can define a geofenced area within which it desires to limit vehicle speed, possibly temporarily. After defining the geofenced area, vehicles or fleets, preferably including GPS trackers, other GPS modules, or other location tracking modules, such as the location tracking module 520 in the vehicle 500 discussed below, can be configured to transmit a notification to the regulatory authority 102 indicating that the vehicle has entered the geofenced area. The regulatory authority 102 can then transmit a signal to one or more vehicles for limiting vehicle speed within the geofenced area and / or within a predefined time frame. Figure 5

[0032] In some embodiments and implementations, in addition to or alternatively to changing vehicle settings that affect vehicle operation, a request for a particular type of information from one or more vehicles within the geofenced area can be defined and / or sent by the regulatory authority 102 at 112. For example, if the police are searching for a particular person and / or vehicle, such as a criminal or a fugitive, the regulatory authority 102 can transmit information about the vehicle and / or person to be identified, such as vehicle type, make, model, vehicle features, license plate number, a description of the person, and / or a photograph of the person and / or vehicle.

[0033] At 114, upon receiving such a request, the vehicle and / or vehicle operator can establish a communication link with the regulatory authority and / or third party in order to attempt to obtain the requested information, or can transmit data related to the information request by other means. In some embodiments and implementations, the vehicle can respond to the request by action. Such actions can include, for example, actuating and / or adjusting operating parameters of the vehicle’s remote object detection system, such as radar sensors, visual cameras, or lidar sensors.

[0034] ​For example, in the depicted embodiment, the vehicle's on-board camera 116 can automatically or, in other embodiments, upon confirmation by the driver / operator, alter 120 an object classification system 118, such as a remote object classification system for an advanced driver assistance system in some embodiments, and / or make it available for use by the authority 102. Such a remote object classification system can be used to use, for example, sensing data from various sensors within the vehicle to classify remote objects into a number of different object categories or types from within the host vehicle, such as cars, bicycles, pedestrians, motorcycles, etc.

[0035] As will be appreciated by those of ordinary skill in the art, such a system can include, for example, one or more remote detectors, such as radar sensors / modules, lidar sensors / modules, cameras, etc. Such remote detectors can be configured to receive sensing data from remote objects, such as other vehicles, pedestrians, bicycles, and / or stationary objects. Such a system can also include a controller to allow for processing of data from the remote detectors and / or any of the various modules of the system. As used herein, the term controller refers to a hardware device that includes a processor and, preferably, also includes a memory element. The memory can be configured to store one or more of the modules mentioned herein, and the controller and / or processor can be configured to execute the module to perform one or more of the processes described herein.

[0036] As an example of modifying the object classification system 118, in some embodiments, a communication from the authority 102 can change the operating mode of one or more sensors. Thus, for example, a communication from the authority 102 can trigger a temporary change in the operating mode of a radar sensor or other sensor to increase the probability of detecting a particular object. Again as a more specific example, with reference to the license plate example mentioned earlier, in some embodiments, a camera can be temporarily set in a special mode or hidden function layer within a remote object detection system of the vehicle in which the camera is attempting to read a license plate from a remote vehicle. Although such a mode can be too data-intensive or otherwise undesirable for standard operation, a notification from the authority 102 that a particular vehicle needs to be identified can justify temporarily entering such a mode to assist in locating a particular remote vehicle with one or more vehicles associated with the authority 102. In some embodiments and implementations, data from such a special mode or otherwise related to a request from the authority 102 can be stored locally on the host vehicle and subsequently transmitted to the authority 102, for example, after identifying a license plate, person, vehicle, or other object being searched or another object after another triggering event.

[0037] As another example, in some embodiments, vehicles can respond to the request by searching for vehicles moving at a speed above a threshold speed, which is more likely to correspond to a fugitive. In some such embodiments, a hidden functionality layer or special mode of the system of vehicles in the fleet / group can be used to perform this function.

[0038] As yet another example, traffic within a geo-fenced area that is proceeding in a particular or range of directions can be allowed to proceed unimpeded, and vehicles proceeding in another direction or range of directions can be stopped in some manner, such as by controlling the speed of such vehicles, applying brakes, etc. Thus, for example, vehicles that are moving away from a car accident and / or traffic jam can be able to proceed unimpeded, and those moving toward the car accident and / or traffic jam can be subject to some form of control and / or notification by the authority 102.

[0039] In some embodiments and implementations, a partial or incomplete detection event can be used to trigger a change to a vehicle, vehicle settings, operating mode of various sensors, and / or a change to a geo-fenced area. For example, upon a vehicle detecting a particular target, such as a vehicle and / or person, other vehicles within the geo-fenced area can receive a request, a change in settings, etc., to improve the ability to track and / or re-identify the target. Similarly, detection of a target by a vehicle can trigger a redefinition of the geo-fenced area, for example, when the target is identified near a boundary of the area. Thus, in some embodiments and implementations, a geo-fenced area can be redefined that has a center at a location of detection or partial detection of a target, such as a possible but unconfirmed detection of a target.

[0040] In some embodiments, a request from the authority 102 can include a request for weather information. For example, the authority 102 can request or command access to on-board cameras and / or other sensors to obtain information about weather patterns in the area of the vehicle.

[0041] If a request from the authority 102 has been satisfied, such as using the license plate example mentioned earlier, when a license plate has been identified at 122, the information can be sent to the authority 102. In some embodiments and implementations, the information can be transmitted to a cloud service 126 of the authority 102 or otherwise associated with the authority 102. In some embodiments, data during a search can be stored locally until a license plate is identified, another request is satisfied, or another suitable trigger is initiated.

[0042] In other embodiments, however, the managing authority 102 can receive a stream of data related to the request or periodic updates as desired. For example, in some embodiments, the managing authority 102 can control a camera or other sensor on the vehicle and / or receive a stream update and / or continuous update of video and / or photo data from such a camera or other sensor in performing the request.

[0043] Other examples of data that can be sent to the managing authority 102 at 124 include data associated with a current location, direction of travel, and / or speed of a remote vehicle or person that has been identified by the host vehicle. For example, if a search has been conducted for a particular vehicle and the search identifies such a vehicle, the managing authority can be provided information from sensors of the host vehicle of the remote vehicle that can allow the managing authority 102 to track the search subject of the vehicle, or at least be informed of the current or approximate current location of the vehicle, the current direction of travel of the vehicle, the speed of the vehicle, etc.

[0044] In some embodiments and implementations, the managing authority 102 can then perform one or more additional actions related to the data received from the vehicle at 128. For example, in some embodiments, the managing authority 102 can shrink the defined geo-fence area to account for the positioning of the vehicle in the area of the identified vehicle so that other vehicles in the fleet / group can continue to track the vehicle based on, for example, license plates and / or other vehicle characteristics. As another example, if the managing authority 102 is not a police agency, the managing authority 102 can notify a police agency or other government agency / managing authority upon identifying a license plate / vehicle. As another example, the managing authority 102 can change geo-fence settings based on the received data, such as redefining the boundaries of the geo-fence area to allow tracking of the identified remote vehicle, extending the time range of the geo-fence, or changing settings and / or operation of vehicles in the fleet / group, such as restoring normal operation of such vehicles.

[0045] Figure 2 is another schematic and flow diagram depicting another example of a system 200 for adjusting desired vehicle operation in a geo-fenced area according to some embodiments and various steps of the inventive method according to implementations of the invention. As shown, and as previously described, the managing authority 202 can receive, generate, input, and / or transmit data related to a particular event at 204.

[0046] The authority 202 can then define, at 206, a region associated with the event 204, and in some embodiments and implementations, other parameters associated with the event 204, which region can correspond to or at least involve a geofenced region. Thus, in some embodiments and implementations, the authority 202 can define, at 206, the boundaries of the region associated with the event 204, such as a traffic congestion region, a region in which a fugitive is believed to be located, an AMBER TM alert-associated region, and the like.

[0047] As noted previously, in some embodiments, the authority 202 can also define other parameters associated with the region, such as a time window associated with the event 204.

[0048] After defining the geofenced region, the authority 202 can remotely change, at 208, one or more features, parameters, functions, and / or aspects of a particular vehicle or group of vehicles, which can include issuing a request and / or command, such as in some embodiments, issuing a command that results in an action designed to change the expected movement of one or more vehicles. Then, at 210, the one or more vehicles in the fleet / group can adopt the settings or other commands from the authority 202. Again, such settings can be changed automatically in some embodiments, and can only be changed upon confirmation by another party, such as a driver / operator in other embodiments.

[0049] To provide another more specific example, in some embodiments, the authority 202 can define a geofenced region corresponding to an accident, vehicle malfunction, and / or high traffic congestion. In some embodiments, the parameters of the geofenced region can include a time frame. After defining the geofenced region, a vehicle or fleet of vehicles, preferably including a GPS tracker, other GPS module, or other location tracking module, such as the location tracking module 520 in the vehicle 500 discussed below, can be configured to transmit a notification to the authority 202 indicating that the vehicle has entered the geofenced region. The authority 202 can then transmit a signal to one or more vehicles for limiting the speed of the vehicle within the geofenced region and / or within a predefined time range. For example, when an accident occurs, the authority 202 can impose a limit on the speed of the vehicle and / or operate the brakes of the vehicle to ensure that the vehicle slows down or stops within the geofenced region. As another example, in certain regions, such as parking lots, sidewalks, and other regions that can be temporarily or permanently geofenced, a speed limit can be imposed on vehicles within such regions. Figure 5 In some embodiments and implementations, the authority 202 can also define, at 206, a geofenced region associated with the event 204, and in some embodiments and implementations, other parameters associated with the event 204, which region can correspond to or at least involve a geofenced region. Thus, in some embodiments and implementations, the authority 202 can define, at 206, the boundaries of the region associated with the event 204, such as a traffic congestion region, a region in which a fugitive is believed to be located, an AMBER

[0050] Figure 2 ​In embodiments, a system traffic tracker 215 can be included in the system 200. The system traffic tracker 215 can be used to send various signals, commands, requests, etc. to one or more vehicles in a group or fleet, as previously described. The system traffic tracker 215 can be a system controlled by the authority 202, or can be a traffic control system operated by, for example, another authority or other entity, such as a local government agency, that is used to oversee and control traffic in a given area, and can include a plurality of fixed cameras or other sensors placed at various points along a roadway. Thus, the authority 202 can directly control the system traffic tracker 215 or can be configured to communicate with the system traffic tracker 215.

[0051] In some embodiments, vehicle operation settings can be controlled or altered at 208 / 210, and the system traffic tracker 215 can be used to provide additional information, requests, and / or commands to vehicles in the fleet / group. For example, at 217, information gathered from the system traffic tracker 215 can be sent to one or more vehicles in the fleet / group. For example, in the event of high traffic density and / or accidents, individual vehicles can be provided with instructions, requests, and / or information to help control traffic. In some embodiments, different instructions can be provided to vehicles within the fleet / group depending on their specific location or other parameters unique to each vehicle.

[0052] Using the example of a geo-fenced parking lot, sidewalk, or other such area, in some embodiments and implementations, the authority 202 can be configured to issue automatic or real-time communications with vehicles within such an area. For example, a geo-fenced vehicle near an event with a large number of people can receive a communication from the authority 202 that attempts to determine why the vehicle is in the area, what can be prohibited for the vehicle, why the vehicle is driving at an excessive speed, etc. In some embodiments, the authority 102 can be able to impose speed limits and / or stop the vehicle as needed. Again, these instructions / requests / information can be automatically employed by the vehicle at 210 or upon confirmation / acceptance by the operator / driver.

[0053] Figure 3 Another example of a system 300 for adjusting desired vehicle operations in a geo-fenced area is shown, in accordance with other embodiments. The system 300 again includes an authority 302 that can have full or partial control over one or more vehicles 306. As previously described, in some embodiments, an event 304 can be used to trigger a change in requests, instructions, commands, etc. from the authority 302.

[0054] Each vehicle 306 can include various systems to facilitate the collection of information about its surroundings, allow for communication with the authority 302 and / or other third parties, allow for the receipt of commands from the authority 302, and / or allow the authority 302 to control various aspects of vehicle operation. For example, the vehicle 306 can include a vehicle communication module 308 that can be configured to transmit and / or receive data using any available and suitable communication protocol, preferably a wireless protocol, such as a radio communication link, a cellular communication link, a satellite communication link, WiFi, Ultra-Wide Band (“UWB”), and / or any other suitable communication protocol.

[0055] Each vehicle 306 can also include other systems, such as primary vehicle systems 312 or a backbone network. The systems 312 can include, for example, advanced driver assistance systems (“ADAS”), a user interface that allows the operator and / or driver 310 to interact with the systems 312, and the like. The user interface can include various elements, such as a screen, a touchscreen, a speaker, a keypad, a microphone, buttons, switches, dials, and the like.

[0056] Various other elements can be communicatively coupled with the vehicle systems 312, one or more of which can also be communicatively coupled with the communication module 308 to allow for interaction with the authority 302 and / or other entities. For example, each vehicle 306 can include various actuators 314 and / or sensors 316. The actuators 314 can include inboard actuators 318 that can allow for the receipt of various forms of communication from the authority 302 and / or other entities, such as displays, lights, speakers, haptic actuators, and the like. One or more of the inboard actuators 318 can be shared with the vehicle systems 312 and used for other more general functions within the vehicle 306, or can be dedicated to connection communication with the authority 302.

[0057] Each vehicle 306 can also include one or more outboard actuators 320 that can be used to allow the authority 302 and / or other entities to control the vehicle 306. Examples of such actuators 320 include brake actuation modules, speed governors or other speed limiters, remote steering modules, and the like. In some embodiments, the authority 302 can be able to remotely actuate and / or operate one or more outboard actuators 320 via the vehicle communication module 308. For example, as previously mentioned, in some embodiments, the authority 302 can establish a geofenced area due to a traffic incident or other event 304. The authority 302 can then remotely operate a speed governor in the actuators 320 via the vehicle communication module 308 by command or by request that can be accepted by the driver 310 or, in some embodiments, rejected by the driver 310.

[0058] In some embodiments, the driver 310 can override requests or commands via the vehicle communication module 308, or attempt to override requests or commands. Thus, for example, the driver 310 can override or request to override commands or other geofence restrictions that are removed due to a number of factors, such as during an emergency, when the driver 310 is a service vehicle, tow truck, construction vehicle, etc. that can need or want to enter a restricted area. Thus, certain vehicles can be preconfigured with certain types of permissions to allow for the override of certain requests. Alternatively, a request to override the restrictions can be communicated from the driver 310 to the authority 302. The override request can be selectively or automatically, and in whole or in part, granted. For example, the authority 302 can remove certain restrictions, such as location restrictions, but leave other restrictions, such as maximum speed and / or the ability to remotely operate one or more aspects of the vehicle 306 while the vehicle 306 is within the geofenced area.

[0059] The vehicle 306 can also include one or more sensors 316, such as radar sensors, vision cameras, lidar sensors, GPS sensors, etc. The sensors 316 can be used to gather data in response to requests and / or commands from the authority 302 and / or provide an indication to the authority 302 that the vehicle 306 has entered a geofenced area defined by the authority 302. For example, in some embodiments and implementations, data from a GPS module and / or the sensors 316 can be used to determine when the vehicle 306 is within a geofenced area defined by the authority 302. This data can be continuously transmitted to the authority 302 after the vehicle 306 enters the geofenced area, or the vehicle 306 can be configured to notify the authority 302 upon sending a predetermined triggering event, such as leaving the geofenced area, providing a response to a request from the authority 302, etc.

[0060] The vehicle 306 can include various other elements, such as object classification systems 322 and 324. The object classification system 322 can include one or more software modules or components for classifying remotely detected objects from the vehicle 306 into a number of different object types or categories, such as cars, bicycles, pedestrians, motorcycles, etc., using, for example, sensing data from the sensors 316.

[0061] As used herein, a software module or component can include any type of computer instruction or computer executable code located within a memory device and / or space of a machine. A software module may, for instance, include one or more physical or logical blocks of computer instructions that may, for instance, be organized as an object, procedure, routine, program, function, etc., that performs one or more tasks or implements particular abstract data types.

[0062] In certain embodiments, a particular software module can comprise different instructions stored in different locations of the memory device that collectively implement the functionality of the module. Indeed, a module can comprise a single instruction or many instructions, and can be distributed over several different code segments, among different programs, and across multiple memory devices. Some embodiments can be practiced in a distributed computing environment where tasks are performed by a remote processing device that is linked through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, software modules can be located in local and / or remote memory storage devices. In addition, data being bundled or reproduced in database records can reside in the same memory device, or across multiple memory devices, and can be linked together in record fields in a database on a network.

[0063] Further, embodiments and implementations of the invention disclosed herein can include various steps that can be embodied in machine-executable instructions that are executed by a general- or special-purpose computer (or other electronic device). Alternatively, steps can be performed by hardware components that include specific logic for performing the steps, or by a combination of hardware, software, and / or firmware.

[0064] Embodiments and / or implementations can also be provided as a computer program product including a machine-readable storage medium having stored thereon instructions that can be used to program a computer (or other electronic device) to perform processes described herein. The machine-readable storage medium can include, but is not limited to, hard drives, floppy diskettes, optical disks, CD-ROMs, DVDs, ROMs, RAMs, EPROMs, EEPROMs, magnetic or optical cards, solid-state memory devices, or other types of media / machine-readable medium suitable for storing electronic instructions. Memory and / or data storage can also be provided, which in some cases can include a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium containing executable program instructions configured for execution by a processor, controller / control unit, etc.

[0065] In some embodiments, one object classification module or system can be provided for internal use by the vehicle 306, and another object classification module or system can be controlled by the authority 302 and / or used to provide data to the authority 302. For example, in the depicted embodiment, the vehicle 306 can use the object classification system 322 internally for typical purposes involved in vehicle operation, as will be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art. The object classification system 324 can be used exclusively or partially to collect data for responding to commands or requests by the authority 302. However, in alternative embodiments, a single object classification system can be used both internally by the vehicle and by the authority 302. In some such embodiments, the object classification system can be configured to operate in different modes depending on whether the authority 302 is involved in a particular function of interest at a given time.

[0066] For example, in some embodiments, the system 324 can include an embedded and / or hidden mode and / or layer of functionality within the object classification system 322 that can alter software reaction behavior, response times, thresholds, etc. Thus, in some embodiments and implementations, upon receiving a particular type of request or command from the authority 302 or a request or command from the authority 302, the object classification system 322 can be configured to turn on a layer of operation that includes the object classification system or module 324. This layer or mode can provide functionality that is not available to the driver 310 during normal operation.

[0067] For example, in some embodiments, the object classification module 324 can be configured to stop the authority 302 from controlling one or more cameras or other sensors 316 for a limited period of time. As another example, for reasons discussed previously, the object classification system / module 324 can be configured to obtain different types of data than the system 322, such as attempting to identify license plate data from a remote vehicle. Similarly, the object classification system / module 324 can be configured to temporarily attempt to identify other non-standard data and / or objects, such as road sign shapes and / or text, faces, weather patterns, etc.

[0068] In other embodiments, the object classification system / module 324 can be configured to temporarily increase or decrease certain thresholds associated with detection of remote objects, such as detection thresholds and / or tracker thresholds. Thus, for example, a special mode of operation can lower detection thresholds and / or require fewer consistent detections to maintain tracking. This can increase the probability of detection of a particular object, such as a vehicle or person, as by the authority 302.

[0069] As another example, in some embodiments, one or more elements of the object classification system / module 324 can be configured with preconfigured or tuned hidden algorithms or other hidden or non-standard modes of operation that identify certain specific items and / or aspects of items, such as specific colors, shapes, characters, or other attributes. For example, when a regulatory agency sends a request to identify a specific car, truck, motorcycle, license plate, partial license plate, person, or distinguishing characteristic of any of the foregoing, vehicles in a group / fleet can be configured to alter the object classification system / module 324 to bias detection of such items and / or specific items having such characteristics. While it is contemplated that such modes / functions can be part of the standard operation of the object classification system / module 324, in preferred embodiments and implementations, instead, these modes / functions can be opened and / or accessed only by a command and / or trigger, which as noted above, can come from a regulatory agency, user / driver, or can be triggered automatically based on a specific event, such as a partial or possible detection event. In this way, the hidden modes / functions / algorithms can be configured to avoid hampering the system until / unless they are needed.

[0070] Also as Figure 3 As shown, the system 300 can also include a vehicle coordination and / or communication system 350, which can include, for example, a cloud-based storage and / or communication system or service. The system 350 can include a global area definition or GPS tracking system 352, which can include various communication modules, monitors, processors, servers, and / or GPS receivers. In some embodiments, the system 352 can be configured to collect tracking information for one or more vehicles in real time, and can store such data in a database, preferably with the ability to respond to searches of historical tracking data.

[0071] The system 350 can also include and / or be configured to communicate with a traffic tracker system 354. As previously noted, the traffic tracker system 354 can be a system controlled by the regulatory agency 302, or can be a traffic control system operated by, for example, another regulatory agency or other entity, such as a local government agency, for supervising and controlling traffic in a given area, and can include a plurality of fixed cameras or other sensors placed at various points within a geo-fenced area.

[0072] The system 350 can also include a vehicle dynamics / preferences action module or system 356. The system 356 can be configured to detect one or more specific vehicle parameters, specifications, and / or current vehicle characteristics to allow control of actuators 314 and / or sensors 316. For example, in some embodiments, the system 356 can be configured to receive input from the authority 302 regarding a desired outcome (e.g., stop vehicle X) and calculate desired actuation parameters for achieving such an outcome. Thus, if the authority 302 issues a command to stop vehicle X, the system 356 can be configured to receive input from a vehicle communication system of vehicle X (such as the vehicle communication module 308) regarding the specifications and / or parameters of the actuators of vehicle X in order to ensure that the vehicle is safely stopped. The direction, location, and speed of vehicle X can similarly be used in this analysis, which data can be obtained from one or more on-board sensors 316.

[0073] Some embodiments can also include a vehicle override module 358 that can be configured to determine whether to allow a vehicle 306 to override a particular request rather than treat it as a command. For example, if the event 304 is flagged as a non-critical event or otherwise less than an importance threshold, the vehicle can be allowed to override a request to limit the speed of the vehicle.

[0074] Some embodiments can also or be configured to process all requests from an on-board authority, or in some such embodiments, process some requests from the on-board authority and then transmit data in response to the request upon detecting certain triggering events. This can be advantageous to conserve bandwidth for processing by the authority and / or related servers and / or cloud services and for data transmission thereto. For example, upon receiving a request identifying a particular vehicle, a special operating layer can be opened in which the threshold values of one or more sensors are changed, software modules are otherwise modified, and / or hardware is driven. Preferably, however, such enhanced search processing is performed on the host vehicle and data from the search is not transmitted to the authority until a triggering event is detected, such as detecting or possibly detecting the vehicle or other object that issued the search request. At that time, certain data, levels, or information that the authority can request can be transmitted to the authority. Of course, in some cases, the authority can control various actuators and / or sensors of the vehicle as desired, which can result in immediate transmission of data and / or processing of such data by the authority as desired.

[0075] Figure 4is a flowchart showing a more generalized embodiment of a method 400 for adjusting desired vehicle operations in a geofenced area. The method 400 includes receiving geofence data at 410, which can be received by a vehicle in a fleet or group of one or more vehicles from a governing authority or other entity. As previously described, the geofence parameters and / or timing of the geofence can be established by the governing authority and can constitute the geofence data received by the vehicle.

[0076] At 420, a determination can be made as to whether the vehicle is within the geofenced area defined by the governing authority. This determination can be made repeatedly and / or in an iterative and / or looped manner as needed, such that an accurate representation of the vehicle’s location can be made and provided to the governing authority as needed. Thus, if the vehicle is determined to be outside of the geofence parameters, meaning outside of the geographic boundary and / or outside of the temporal boundary, the method 400 can revert to 410 and receive additional geofence data from the governing authority, or continue to query whether the vehicle is within the geofence boundary as needed.

[0077] Once the vehicle is determined to be within the geofence boundary, a notification can be transmitted at 430. Such a notification can be transmitted directly to the governing authority that established the geofence boundary, or to a third party, such as a cloud service associated with the governing authority, another entity that can be selected by the governing authority, or to any other third party as needed based on events that can be used as triggers to establish and / or define geofence boundaries.

[0078] In some implementations, the notification can be transmitted immediately upon determining that the vehicle is within the geofence boundary. Alternatively, the notification can be transmitted at a later time, such as upon occurrence of a secondary triggering event. For example, in some embodiments and implementations, one or more vehicles can be configured to automatically employ certain commands upon entering the geofenced area, which can not require immediate notification of the governing authority. Such a notification can be sent later, such as upon determining that a particular vehicle has satisfied a request associated with the geofence, or in other implementations, not at all.

[0079] However, in the depicted implementation, at 440, a request is received from the governing agency, in some implementations. The request can relate to a particular event that can result in the generation of geofence parameters associated with the geofence data referenced in step 410, in some implementations. The request can include a command that the vehicle / driver / operator cannot accept or reject the request, in some implementations. The request can include, for example, a request for information to identify a predetermined target, such as a target vehicle or a target individual. The request can include a command, such as a command to prohibit the vehicle from traveling in a particular direction and / or above a threshold speed, such as traveling in the wrong direction on a one-way street or traveling above a particular speed or traveling in a particular area near a school or event.

[0080] The vehicle / driver / operator can then respond to the request at 450. In some implementations, step 450 can be performed automatically following step 440, such that the vehicle / driver / operator takes one or more actions immediately and without hesitation upon receiving the request / command, for example. In other implementations, the vehicle / driver / operator can be able to reject the request or select one or more options related to responding to the request.

[0081] When the response to the request includes an action, the action can include, for example, adjusting an operating parameter of a remote object detection system of the vehicle to increase the likelihood of detecting certain things, such as a target vehicle or a target individual. In some such implementations, the action can include turning on a hidden function mode or layer of the remote object detection system, such as a camera or radar sensor of the remote object detection system, to increase the likelihood of detecting a particular object related to the request, for example.

[0082] In some implementations, the vehicle / driver / operator can receive an instruction or a warning, which can be provided by one or more of actuating a light, actuating a haptic warning device, providing an audible warning sound, and providing a verbal instruction to the operator of the vehicle. For example, vehicles in a group or fleet of vehicles can be provided with instructions and / or warnings associated with objects and / or events in their routes, such as an upcoming accident, a weather pattern, or a restricted area for vehicles and / or speed.

[0083] Figure 5A vehicle 500 is shown that includes a system 510 for allowing third parties, such as a regulatory agency, to provide requests, commands, instructions, etc. to the vehicle 500 within a geofenced area that can be defined by the regulatory agency / third party, including in some embodiments remote operation of the vehicle 500, in accordance with some embodiments. As shown in this figure, the system 510 can include a location tracking module 520, which can include, for example, a GPS transceiver configured to communicate with and receive location information from a satellite navigation system.

[0084] The system 510 can also include a communication module 530, which can include various components and features to allow the vehicle 500 to communicate with third parties, such as a regulatory agency and / or other vehicles in a fleet / group, and more specifically to receive requests, commands, instructions, etc. from third parties. Thus, the communication module 530 can include, for example, any of a variety of wireless communication means, such as a wireless carrier system, a personal communication system (“PCS”), a global positioning system, and / or any other suitable communication system in connection with any suitable communication standard and / or protocol. In some embodiments, the communication module 530 can include an analog mobile communication network and / or a digital mobile communication network utilizing, for example, code division multiple access (“CDMA”), global system for mobile communication or general system for mobile (“GSM”), frequency division multiple access (“FDMA”), and / or time division multiple access (“TDMA”) standards. In certain embodiments, the communication module 530 can include one or more satellite communication links (not shown).

[0085] The communication module 530 can be configured to provide various types of data to the regulatory agency or other third party, including location / tracking data, data of objects detected by various sensors and / or detection modules in the vehicle, feedback data to facilitate remote operation of the vehicle, etc. Moreover, in some embodiments and implementations, data generated by the vehicle that can be communicated to the regulatory agency or other third party via the communication module 530 can include metadata, which can include, for example, data representative of or otherwise related to a quality of a particular detection, a confidence level of a detection, a relative position, a time / date, etc. Various other systems / elements, such as a memory module, can continue to add or supplement such metadata, such as a geographic location, a time, a verification, an encryption, etc. at or after the time of a detection event.

[0086] The system 510 can also include one or more environmental sensors 540, such as radar sensors / modules, lidar sensors / modules, cameras, etc. Such sensors and / or detectors 540 can be configured to receive sensing data from remote objects, such as other vehicles, pedestrians, bicycles, and / or stationary objects, to provide data in response to requests from the regulatory agency or other third party.

[0087] After the sensor output, and after the metadata build in some embodiments and implementations, the data can be stored locally, such as in a data module or memory component. In some embodiments and implementations, the data can then be transmitted to a regulatory agency or other third party on request or after another suitable triggering event, in priority queue.

[0088] In some embodiments and implementations, various other triggering events can be used to initiate transmission, cancel priority queue, end priority detection mode, layer, and / or algorithm, and / or delete some or all of the data. Such triggering events include, for example, expiration of a time limit, leaving a geofenced area, a safety triggering event such as encountering dangerous weather and / or road conditions, or a notification from a regulatory agency or other third party.

[0089] An object classification module 550 can be provided, and this module can be configured to use data from various sensors 540 and / or other modules to classify a remote object as one of a plurality of different object classes or types. In some embodiments, the object classification module 550 can be configured to apply statistical analysis of such data in performing the classification. Further, as previously noted, in some embodiments, the module 550 can include one or more functional layers, modes, and / or features that can be turned on by a regulatory agency and / or that can be utilized by the vehicle 500 in response to a request from such a regulatory agency.

[0090] For example, in some embodiments, upon receiving a request from a regulatory agency to locate a particular vehicle having a particular license plate number, a functional layer for optically recognizing text such as that from a license plate of a remote vehicle can be turned on. As another example, in response to a request from a regulatory agency, the system 510 can be configured to turn on a functional layer that detects the speed of vehicles in the vicinity of the host vehicle. In some such embodiments, the functional layer can attempt to detect other vehicles moving at speeds that exceed a threshold value, for example, in search of a fugitive or criminal.

[0091] A controller 560 can be provided so as to allow processing of data from the environmental sensors 540 and / or any of the various modules of the system 510. As used herein, the term controller refers to a hardware device that includes a processor and preferably also a memory element. The memory can be configured to store one or more of the modules mentioned herein, and the controller 540 and / or processor can be configured to execute the modules to perform one or more of the processes described herein.

[0092] Various other modules can be provided to facilitate the provision of instructions from the regulatory authority and / or to allow the regulatory authority to modify various aspects of the vehicle related to its movement and / or its ability to collect data related to requests from the regulatory authority. For example, the system 510 can include one or more vehicle instruction actuators 570 that can be used to communicate instructions, warnings, requests, etc. Thus, in some embodiments, the vehicle instruction actuators 570 can include speakers, lights, screens or other visual displays, haptic actuators, etc. that can be configured to be controlled, operated, or at least otherwise communicatively coupled with the regulatory authority to communicate such instructions, warnings, requests, etc.

[0093] One or more vehicle operation actuators 580 can also be provided that can be configured to allow the regulatory authority or other remote third party to control various aspects of vehicle operation that affect the movement of the vehicle 500. For example, the vehicle operation actuators 580 can include brake actuation modules, speed governors or other speed limiters, remote steering modules, etc. In some embodiments, the regulatory authority can be able to remotely actuate and / or operate one or more of the vehicle operation actuators 580 via the communication module 530.

[0094] The foregoing description has been described with reference to various embodiments and implementations. However, a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that various modifications and changes can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, various operational steps and components for carrying out operational steps can be implemented in various ways depending upon the particular application or applications for which the system operates. Thus, any one or more of the steps can be deleted, modified, or combined with other steps. Furthermore, the disclosure is to be considered as illustrative and not restrictive, and all changes coming within the meaning and equivalency range of the appended claims are intended to be embraced therein. Likewise, benefits, other advantages, and solutions to problems have been suggested above. However, the benefits, advantages, solutions to problems and any element(s) that can cause any benefit, advantage, or solution to occur or become more pronounced are not to be construed as critical, required, or essential features or elements of the application.

[0095] Those skilled in the art will understand that many modifications might be made by one of ordinary skill in the art, while still attaining the basic principle of the application. Therefore, it is to be understood that the application is not limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that material and / or process changes can be made by one of ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope of the application.

Claims

1. An apparatus for adjusting desired vehicle operation within a geofenced area, comprising: At least one memory, the at least one memory including instructions; as well as At least one processor, the at least one processor being configured to execute the instructions to cause the device to: Receive geofence data from inside the vehicle, including the location tracking system; Determine whether the vehicle has entered the geofenced area defined by the geofence data; When it is determined that the vehicle has entered the geofenced area, a notification is transmitted to the management authority; Receive a request from the management authority, the request including a request for information for identifying a predetermined target; as well as The action responds to the request by adjusting the operating parameters of the vehicle's remote object detection system to increase the likelihood of detecting the predetermined target, and the action further includes at least one of the following: adjusting the operating parameters of a system within the vehicle that affects the movement of the vehicle, adjusting the environmental parameters of a system within the vehicle that is related to sensing of the vehicle's surrounding environment, and transmitting vehicle environmental data to the management agency, the vehicle environmental data including information about the vehicle's surrounding environment.

2. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the request further comprises a command.

3. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined target includes a target vehicle.

4. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the remote object detection system comprises at least one of a radar sensor, a vision camera, and a lidar sensor.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the action further includes opening a hidden functional layer within the remote object detection system.

6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the hidden functional layer is configured to search for a predetermined license plate number of a target vehicle.

7. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the hidden functional layer is configured to search for vehicles moving at a speed higher than a threshold speed.

8. An apparatus for providing environmental data from inside a geofenced vehicle, comprising: At least one memory, the at least one memory including instructions; as well as At least one processor, the at least one processor being configured to execute the instructions to cause the device to: Receive geofence data from within a vehicle, wherein the vehicle includes: Location tracking system; and An environmental sensor system configured to generate vehicle environmental data about the environment surrounding the vehicle; After the vehicle enters the geofenced area, a request for information to identify the predetermined target vehicle is received from the management authority. Upon receiving the request from the management agency, the parameters of the environmental sensor system are adjusted to increase the likelihood of identifying the predetermined target vehicle; and Vehicle environment data, including information about the environment surrounding the vehicle, is transmitted to the management agency.

9. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the request includes a request for information for identifying traffic conditions within the geofenced area.

10. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein the environmental sensor system includes a camera, and wherein, in order to transmit vehicle environmental data to the management agency, the at least one processor is further configured to cause the apparatus to transmit a real-time video stream from the camera.

11. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein, in order to transmit vehicle environmental data to the management agency, the at least one processor is further configured to cause the apparatus to: Store environmental data from the environmental sensor system; Waiting for an event to be triggered; as well as Upon detecting the triggering event, the stored environmental data is transmitted to the management agency.

12. The apparatus of claim 11, wherein the triggering event includes confirmation that a target requested by the management agency has been detected.

13. The apparatus of claim 8, wherein, in order to adjust the parameters of the environmental sensor system, the at least one processor is further configured to cause the apparatus to adjust the parameters of the vehicle's object classification module.

14. A method for altering the vehicle operation of a geofencing vehicle, the method comprising the steps of: Receive geofence data from inside the vehicle, including the location tracking system; Determine whether the vehicle has entered the geofenced area defined by the geofence data; When it is determined that the vehicle has entered the geofenced area, a notification is transmitted to the management authority; Receive orders from the management authority; as well as The method responds to the command with an action, wherein the action is designed to change the desired movement of the vehicle, wherein the vehicle includes an environmental sensor system configured to generate vehicle environmental data about the environment surrounding the vehicle, and wherein the method further includes: After the vehicle enters the geofenced area, a request for information for identifying the predetermined target vehicle is received from the management authority. as well as Upon receiving the request from the management agency, the parameters of the environmental sensor system are adjusted to increase the likelihood of identifying the predetermined target vehicle.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the action includes adjusting operational parameters affecting the movement of the vehicle, and wherein the action includes at least one of: actuating the brakes of the vehicle, limiting the speed of the vehicle, adjusting the steering of the vehicle, and preventing the vehicle from moving further.

16. The method of claim 14, wherein the action includes providing an instruction or warning to an operator of the vehicle, and wherein the instruction or warning is provided by at least one of actuating a light, actuating a tactile warning device, providing an audible warning sound, and providing a verbal instruction to the operator of the vehicle.

17. The method of claim 14, wherein the geofenced area is defined and corresponds to at least one of an area with relatively high traffic density, an area associated with an accident, and an area of ​​a temporary event.

18. A computer-readable storage medium having instructions stored thereon, which, when executed, cause one or more processors to perform the method according to any one of claims 14-17.

19. A computer program product comprising computer-readable instructions, which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to perform the method according to any one of claims 14-17.

20. An apparatus for altering the vehicle operation of a geofencing vehicle, comprising: At least one memory, the at least one memory comprising instructions; and At least one processor, the at least one processor being configured to execute the instructions to cause the apparatus to perform the method according to any one of claims 14-17.

21. A computer-readable storage medium having instructions stored thereon, which, when executed, cause one or more processors to: Receive geofence data from inside the vehicle, including the location tracking system; Determine whether the vehicle has entered the geofenced area defined by the geofence data; When it is determined that the vehicle has entered the geofenced area, a notification is transmitted to the management authority; Receive a request from the management authority, the request including a request for information for identifying a predetermined target; as well as The action responds to the request by adjusting the operating parameters of the vehicle's remote object detection system to increase the likelihood of detecting the predetermined target, and the action further includes at least one of the following: adjusting the operating parameters of a system within the vehicle that affects the movement of the vehicle, adjusting the environmental parameters of a system within the vehicle that is related to sensing of the vehicle's surrounding environment, and transmitting vehicle environmental data to the management agency, the vehicle environmental data including information about the vehicle's surrounding environment.

22. A computer program product comprising computer-readable instructions, which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to: Receive geofence data from inside the vehicle, including the location tracking system; Determine whether the vehicle has entered the geofenced area defined by the geofence data; When it is determined that the vehicle has entered the geofenced area, a notification is transmitted to the management authority; Receive a request from the management authority, the request including a request for information for identifying a predetermined target; as well as The action responds to the request by adjusting the operating parameters of the vehicle's remote object detection system to increase the likelihood of detecting the predetermined target, and the action further includes at least one of the following: adjusting the operating parameters of a system within the vehicle that affects the movement of the vehicle, adjusting the environmental parameters of a system within the vehicle that is related to sensing of the vehicle's surrounding environment, and transmitting vehicle environmental data to the management agency, the vehicle environmental data including information about the vehicle's surrounding environment.

23. A computer-readable storage medium having instructions stored thereon, which, when executed, cause one or more processors to: Receive geofence data from within a vehicle, wherein the vehicle includes: Location tracking system; and An environmental sensor system configured to generate vehicle environmental data about the environment surrounding the vehicle; After the vehicle enters the geofenced area, a request for information to identify the predetermined target vehicle is received from the management authority. Upon receiving the request from the management agency, the parameters of the environmental sensor system are adjusted to increase the likelihood of identifying the predetermined target vehicle. as well as Vehicle environment data, including information about the environment surrounding the vehicle, is transmitted to the management agency.

24. A computer program product comprising computer-readable instructions, which, when executed by a processor, cause the processor to: Receive geofence data from within a vehicle, wherein the vehicle includes: Location tracking system; and An environmental sensor system configured to generate vehicle environmental data about the environment surrounding the vehicle; After the vehicle enters the geofenced area, a request for information to identify the predetermined target vehicle is received from the management authority. Upon receiving the request from the management agency, the parameters of the environmental sensor system are adjusted to increase the likelihood of identifying the predetermined target vehicle. as well as Vehicle environment data, including information about the environment surrounding the vehicle, is transmitted to the management agency.

Images