Patent attributes
A portable navigation device (PND) is disclosed comprising processing means, a graphical display, memory, map data stored in said memory, user-input means, and signal reception means for receiving one or more wireless signals by means of which the processor can determine a present location of the device and in conjunction with user input desired destination information, and perform route calculation and subsequent navigation functions, such being performed by software installed on the device. The PND is additionally provided with a connector by means of which said PND can be physically connected to third party devices or systems. The invention is characterized in that said PND is adapted to establish a communication, via said physical connection, with a vehicle controller area network consisting thus becoming a node thereon and capable of communicating with other nodes thereon, each of said nodes having functionality represented by one or more signals distributed around said controller area network and received by said PND. The invention is further characterized in that said PND includes a first software translation layer enabling the communication between PND and one or more nodes, and a second software routine layer comprising one or more routines specific to the functionality of one or more of said other nodes so as to effectively communicate therewith and utilize their functionality. Examples of third party devices include hands-free communications modules, gateway nodes, the vehicle stereo system, engine management system, seat position controllers, multifunction steering wheel, dashboard and console displays, integrated navigation systems, and the like. The invention allows the PND either to receive and interpret information from the controller area network and retrieve information from one or more devices forming nodes on that network for display on the PND or improved operation thereof, or to cause control or state change of one or more of the devices forming nodes on the controller area network. Voice control of the PND is also possible in the case a voice recognition system is provided as a node on the controller area network, and additionally, the vocal instructions issued by the PND can be caused to be replayed through the car stereo, if such is also connected to the controller area network within the vehicle.
