Third Party Speed Control Device

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system and method of controlling vehicular speed, in particular by a third party, which uses data relating to geography and operator. In some instances, it is desirable to limit the power generated by an engine of a vehicle, to limit the maximum speed of the engine or to have a cruise control function on the vehicle for example. An electronic control unit ECU may be fitted to an engine, whilst a throttle valve is controlled by an operator/driver of a vehicle, this leaves the ECU operable to control the ignition and, where available, the injection, in order to control or adjust the power of the engine. For example, when the engine reaches a predetermined maximum speed, the ECU will control the engine such that some of the spark plugs are not fired and/or that fuel is not injected in every combustion chamber. The present invention seeks to provide an improved speed control device and system for a vehicle. In particular, the present invention seeks to provide an improved speed control device and system for vehicles, which can be subject to environmental and other third party limits. In accordance with a first aspect of the invention, there is provided a speed control device for a vehicle whereby a third party can impose supervisory control upon a specific vehicle and vehicle operator combination which cannot be override by the vehicle operator, the vehicle having a motor operable to provide motive power to the vehicle, a vehicle controller operable to receive speed data of the vehicle, a motor controller operable to control the output of the motor, an interface operable to receive data relating to a specific operator.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.