Onboard Unit Auto-Deactivation for Toll System OBU Return
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users often fail to return onboard units (OBUs) in toll systems, leading to increased costs for toll operators due to the need for additional 'rental' OBUs.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a control mechanism within the OBU that sends acoustic and optical signals and messages when approaching or exceeding toll system limits, deactivates the OBU after a specified period, and deducts credits from prepaid cards upon exiting the toll system, encouraging timely return and preventing unauthorized reuse.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If loan OBUs are provided to users against a deposit, then users can access the toll system without installing permanent devices, but users fail to return the OBUs leading to increased costs for the toll operator
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automated feedback mechanisms including acoustic and optical signals that alert users when they are leaving the toll system, prompting them to return the OBU. The system also provides automatic confirmation when the OBU is returned, creating a closed-loop feedback system that encourages timely return without requiring constant operator monitoring
Solution Approach 2:
The OBU device performs self-service functions by automatically detecting when the vehicle has left the toll system through GPS positioning, generating reminders autonomously, and enabling automatic confirmation of return. This reduces the need for operator intervention and manual tracking
2Ease of operation
If the toll operator provides an increased number of rental OBUs to account for non-returns, then user convenience is maintained, but acquisition and maintenance costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by proactively alerting users before they leave the toll system using acoustic and optical signals. This advance notification gives users time to return the OBU before departure, preventing loss rather than reacting after the fact
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual monitoring and physical tracking systems with automated electronic monitoring using GPS positioning and computer-controlled signal generation. This substitution reduces the need for human operators and physical inventory management
3Reliability
If acoustic and optical signals are transmitted to prompt users to return OBUs, then return rates improve, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The OBU device performs multiple functions using existing components: GPS positioning for location detection, acoustic signal generation for user alerts, optical signal generation for visual reminders, and automated communication for return confirmation. This multi-functionality achieves reliable return prompting without requiring separate dedicated systems for each function
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Reduces the number of OBUs required by toll operators, minimizing costs and ensuring timely returns by prompting users to return the devices when no longer needed, while also preventing unauthorized use by deactivating them after a period.
Implementation Method 1
The OBUs have a receiver (11). The receiver is designed for the GPS satellite program operated by the United States of America, which can be used to determine the current position of a vehicle.
Data Source
Figure 1
AI summary
The method involves transmitting an acoustic or optical signal (13,14) or a message (15) by the vehicle-based device during approach or passing a toll system boundary (10) of the toll system (12) or with disconnection or detachment of the vehicle-based device from the power supply. The message is transmitted to a central system of the toll charging or a toll system. An independent claim is included for a vehicle-based device with software for producing signals.