Patent Application
20080093445
The preferred embodiment of Data Ignition Card is comprised of at least some of the following: a card with a magnetized strip and a microchip embedded in the magnetized strip and an electronic card reader connected to a vehicle's ignition system.
To use Data Ignition Card, the individual would simply insert the card into the slot of the card reader prior to starting the vehicle. The information on the card would be verified and the individual would then type a security code into the card reader to insure the proper vehicle operator was using the vehicle. The internal memory of the card reader would permit it to verify the security code. If the status of all information contained on the card was current and the proper security code was entered, the ignition will be enabled and the car can then be started and operated in the ordinary manner.
In an alternative embodiment of the invention, a wireless internet connection could be utilized by the card reader. In this embodiment, a data bank could be accessed when a card is inserted or swiped through a card reader. The data bank could be maintained by a department of public safety or other administrative agency. Operation of the vehicle could be authorized or declined in much the same manner as a credit card point of sale terminal operates. If all applicable laws are complied with, the ignition system would be enabled through the card reader.
In the preferred embodiment, the information on the card would need to be periodically updated when insurance or a driver's license was renewed. Various locations maintained by a state or other governmental agency could be utilized to either issue new cards or update the information on a previously issued card.
The materials utilized for Data Ignition Card may vary widely but will likely include metals, plastic and electrical components. The metals would ideally be selected from available steel or alloys of steel and aluminum. The production process related to the use of these metals insures that the metal is non-corrosive, durable and strong. The selected metal should have high impact strength and be capable of accepting and retaining coloring materials for an extended length of time.
The plastic used in the production will ideally be selected for durability and longevity. Thermoplastics are commonly used in the manufacturing of components similar to those used in this invention. Polyethylene, polypropylene, and other similar thermoplastic materials would be among those with the necessary traits. Members of this family are recognized universally as being versatile and of high quality.
The plastic components of Data Ignition Card can also be formed with the use of plastic molding techniques, such as injection molding or blow molding. Injection molding requires melted plastic to be forcefully injected into relatively cool molds. As the plastic begins to harden, it takes on the shape of the mold cavity. This technique is ideal for the mass production of products. Alternatively, blow molding, a form of extrusion, could be utilized. Blow molding involves a molten tube being pushed into a mold. Compressed air then forces the molten tube against the cold walls of the mold.
All electronic components of the invention will also be ideally selected from those currently having the highest industry ratings. These components will also meet and/or exceed all safety and usage regulations. Wiring and associated connecting hardware should be insulated and otherwise protected from intrusion by any harmful or degrading elements, including water, medium level temperatures, and low to medium impact force.
It should be obvious that the components of the present invention can be of various shapes and sizes. It should also be obvious that the components of the invention can be made of different types of plastics or other suitable materials and can be of any color. It should also be obvious that the “card” of the present invention need not be a conventional card and could be any item capable of storing information that can be read by the “card reader.”
It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that changes or modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the broad inventive concepts of the invention. It should therefore be understood that this invention is not limited to the particular embodiments described herein, but is intended to include all changes and modifications that are within the scope and spirit of the invention as set forth in the claims.
