USA Technologies gains wireless telematics patents

Dec 21, 2004 3:51 PM

USA Technologies, Inc. (Malvern, PA) has received three Notices of Allowance from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office for patent applications relating to wireless telematics technology. The patent applications involve technology for connecting a vehicle to the Internet through a wireless device for vehicle security and vehicle telemetry.

"Technology related to these allowed patent applications could enable car dealerships to monitor the health and maintenance of cars, diagnose a possible maintenance issue and even order parts, all before their customer's car even enters the dealer's lot," says Chief Operating Officer Stephen P. Herbert. "Another application of such a system could enable a car owner, or the police, to monitor the location of their stolen car. The system could even give the user the ability to shut down the engine of the stolen car, remotely--all via the Internet."

According to Herbert, motorists with telematics services installed in their cars in the future can look to have information routed directly to a secure Web page--possibly containing the vehicle's performance characteristics, including operating conditions, mileage and diagnostic trouble codes. Another wireless Internet link could allow automotive retailers to inform the vehicle owner via e-mail about engine performance, service opportunities, appointment scheduling and emission testing. Telematics already enables vehicle tracking and positioning, helping motorists navigate and provide security.