Systems and methods for distributing information to an operator of a vehicle

#The present invention facilitates a distribution of information. In particular, according to some embodiments, vehicle control information is provided to an operator of a vehicle.

#An operator of a vehicle, such as a driver of an automobile, often needs to be made aware of vehicle control information. For example, a driver needs to know the speed limit of the road on which he or she is currently driving. Similarly, a driver approaching an intersection needs to know if he or she will be required to slow down or stop at the intersection.

#To provide this type of information, signs and traffic lights are typically placed along a road. For example, a town may post a number of speed limit signs along a street and place traffic lights at certain intersections. However, such an undertaking can be expensive (e.g., the town may need to pay a lot of money to install and maintain the signs and traffic lights). In addition, too many of these signs (e.g., signs providing speed limits, street names, parking regulations, and directions to important locations such as hospitals, airports, and police stations) can present a confusing and unattractive appearance.

#FIG. 1 is a block diagram overview of an information system according to some embodiments of the present invention.

#FIG. 2 is a flow chart of an information controller method according to some embodiments of the present invention.

#FIG. 3 is a flow chart of a vehicle device method according to some embodiments of the present invention.

#Some embodiments of the present invention are directed to systems and methods to distribute information to an operator of a “vehicle.” As used herein, the term “vehicle” may be associated with any type of transportation. Examples of vehicles include automobiles, trucks, buses, motorcycles, bicycles, airplanes, and boats.

#According to some embodiments, “vehicle control information” is provided to an operator of a vehicle. As used herein, the phrase “vehicle control information” may refer to any information that can be used by an operator with respect to a vehicle. For example, vehicle control information may comprise a law, a regulation, or a rule that is applicable to an automobile or a driver. In this case, the information may be, for example, associated with a country, a state, a county, a town, or an employer (e.g., FEDERAL EXPRESS® may prevent employees from exceeding a pre-determined speed limit when driving in New York city). As further examples, vehicle control information may simply be a suggestion (e.g., indicating that an operator may want to take an alternate route to a destination) or a location (e.g., the name of a street).

#Information System Overview