Patent Publication Number: US-2016227374-A1

Title: Mobile router valet mode

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/559,589 filed Jul. 26, 2012 that is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/514,047, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,817,599 issued Aug. 26, 2014 that was filed as PCT Application No. PCT/US07/11632 filed on May 15, 2007 and claiming priority to U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/800,749, filed May 16, 2006, U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/800,679, filed May 16, 2006 and U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/800,750, filed May 16, 2006. U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/559,589 is also a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/414,935 filed Mar. 8, 2012 that is a continuation-in-part of Ser. No. 12/514,049 filed Sep. 25, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,189,552 issued May 29, 2012 which is a 371 of PCT/US07/11624 filed May 15, 2007 and claiming priority to U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/800,749, filed May 16, 2006, U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/800,679, filed May 16, 2006 and U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/800,750, filed May 16, 2006. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to a networked vehicular wireless mobile router arrangement, in general, and to mobile router valet mode programs executable on a processor, in particular. 
     BACKGROUND 
     The use of mobile or wireless end-user computer-type devices has increased significantly. Such mobile devices must be able to connect to a wireless network. Wireless local area networks (LANs) are often deployed inside structures such as homes, offices, public and commercial buildings. A typical wireless LAN comprises one or more wireless access points, such as a wireless router or “hot spot”, which communicates wirelessly with the mobile device, and allows the mobile device to connect to a wired network or other network that is also in communication with the access point. To stay connected to such a wireless LAN, the mobile device must usually stay within wireless communication range of the access points. This constrains the effective mobility of a wireless device. 
     The mobility constraining problem is particularly aggravated when the mobile device is disposed within a vehicle that is in motion. The mobility constraining problem has been addressed somewhat by use of cellular networks that allow mobile devices having cellular network interfaces to communicate wireless data with such cellular networks. However, most mobile computer devices do not have cellular network interfaces. 
     As the use of mobile devices has expanded, the mobility of such devices has expanded to the use wireless routers in vehicles. Such routers are referred to as “mobile routers” or “mobile nodes”. Mobile routers typically permit a mobile device located in a vehicle that is in motion to maintain a connection to a wide area network and thereby greatly expand the mobility of the mobile device. Mobile routers are fully operable whether the vehicle having a mobile router installed therein is in motion or stationary. The mobile router may maintain connection to the Internet as it travels across cellular networks. 
     Still further, it would be advantageous to utilize the mobile router to determine that the vehicle in which the mobile router is disposed is not driven too far or too fast under certain circumstances. 
     One example of a set of such certain circumstances is when a vehicle is left in custody of a valet. 
     SUMMARY 
     In a particularly advantage embodiment of the invention each mobile router may be operated in a “valet mode” in conjunction with a wireless mobile device such as, for example, a so-called smart phone. We provide an application, i.e., a valet application, that may be downloaded to a smartphone or other wireless mobile device. The valet application is particularly advantageous with a smartphone or other wireless mobile device having a touch screen. The valet application programs the wireless mobile device to provide a valet mode control button or icon. Touching the button causes a command to be sent to a corresponding mobile router to enable a valet mode in the mobile router. 
     When the valet mode is enabled in a mobile router, a predetermined boundary is established for the mobile router based on its location at the time the valet mode is enabled. By way of example, the predetermined boundary may be a radius may of e.g., 100 yards from the vehicles location. If the vehicle leaves moves outside the boundary, the mobile router causes a message, e.g., a SMS message, to be sent to the wireless mobile device alerting that the boundary has been exceeded. 
     When the valet mode is enabled, the corresponding mobile router also monitors the speed of the vehicle. If the speed exceeds a predetermined speed, e.g., 65 mph, the mobile router causes a message, e.g., a SMS message, to be sent to the wireless mobile device alerting that the predetermined speed has been exceeded. 
     Both the predetermined radius and the predetermined speed are automatically configured in the mobile router. 
     The mobile router automatically disables the valet mode a predetermined time period, e.g. 4 hours, after it is enabled unless it is earlier disabled by the wireless mobile device. 
     The user of the wireless mobile device can change the predetermined default parameters for the radius, maximum speed, and time period. 
     An embodiment in accordance with the principles of the invention comprises: a wireless device having digital communication capability and comprising a user input/output interface comprising a touch screen display; and a valet mode application stored in the wireless device. The valet mode application is executable by the wireless device to provide control for a valet mode in cooperation with a mobile router disposed within a vehicle. The wireless device executes the valet application program to produce a predetermined image on the touch screen display. The touch screen display is operable such that touching the image is utilized to activate or enable and deactivate or disable a valet mode operation in the mobile router. The valet mode operates in the mobile router such that when the vehicle exceeds one or more predetermined conditions, the mobile router provides a notification to the wireless device. 
     The one or more predetermined conditions are preset in the mobile router. 
     The wireless device is operable to change the one or more predetermined conditions. 
     The predetermined conditions may comprise one or both of a boundary and a vehicle speed. 
     The valet mode remains activated for the shorter time of the wireless device deactivating the mobile router and a predetermined time period. 
     The predetermined time period is stored in the mobile router. 
     In certain embodiments, the wireless device is operable with the valet application program to change the predetermined time period. 
     In various embodiments, the predetermined image comprises one of a button and an icon. The wireless device is operable in response to a touch of the image activating the valet mode to cause an activation of the valet mode in the mobile router; and the wireless device is operable in response to a second touch of the image to cause deactivation of the valet mode in the mobile router. 
     In various embodiments, the wireless device comprises one of a cell phone, a smartphone, a personal data assistant (“PDA”), a tablet computer, a laptop, or a notepad or any similar type of device that provides for wireless digital communication. 
     In various embodiments, the valet application is downloaded to the wireless device. 
     The valet mode application is utilized to associate the wireless device with one or more mobile routers. 
     In one embodiment, an application for use with a wireless device comprising a touch screen display is provided. The application comprises a valet mode application stored by the wireless device. The valet mode application is executable by the wireless device to provide control for a mobile router valet mode, the mobile router disposed within a vehicle. The valet application program is executable by the wireless device to produce a predetermined image on the touch screen display. The valet application program is executable such that touching the image is utilized to activate and deactivate a valet mode operation in the mobile router. The valet mode operating in the mobile router such that when the vehicle exceeds one or more predetermined conditions, the mobile router provides a notification to the wireless device. 
     One embodiment of a mobile router comprises: a valet mode program to provide valet mode functionality in a vehicle in which the mobile router is disposed; a processor operable to execute the valet mode program; a predetermined distance limit; and a predetermined speed limit. The mobile router responds to externally generated commands from a predetermined source to activate or deactivate the valet mode. The processor is operable to determine if the predetermined distance limit is exceeded from the location of the vehicle when the valet mode is activated; and the processor is operable to determine if the vehicle exceeds the predetermined speed limit when the valet mode is activated. 
     The mobile router may comprise: a wireless wide area network interface operable to access a cellular network and a wireless local area network. The commands are received via one of the wireless wide area network and the wireless local area network. 
     The predetermined source that initiates the commands may be a wireless mobile device that executes a valet mode application. 
     The mobile router may comprise a predetermined time period. The processor deactivates the valet mode at the earliest of the predetermined time period and receipt of a deactivate command. 
     The mobile router may respond to externally generated second commands from the predetermined source to change the predetermined time period to a second predetermined time period. 
     The mobile router may respond to externally generated third commands from the predetermined source to change the predetermined distance limit to a second predetermined distance period. 
     The mobile router may respond to externally generated fourth commands from the predetermined source to change the predetermined speed limit to a second predetermined speed period. 
     In various embodiments, the predetermined distance limit and the predetermined speed limit are downloaded to the router via one of the wireless wide area network and the wireless local area network. 
     In various embodiments, the mobile router is operable to generate a message to the predetermined source if at least one of the predetermined speed limit or the predetermined distance is exceeded. 
     Another embodiment of a mobile router comprises: a stored predetermined distance limit; a stored predetermined speed limit; and access to a global positioning system (GPS) receiver. The mobile router utilizes the GPS receiver to substantially continuously determine the location of a vehicle in which the mobile router is disposed; and the mobile router is responsive to a first command to activate an operational mode such that the present location of the vehicle is captured, the vehicle location is substantially continuously utilized to determine if the vehicle location exceeds the predetermined distance limit from the captured location and to determine if the vehicle exceeds the predetermined speed limit. 
     The mobile router is responsive to the vehicle exceeding the predetermined distance from the captured location to send a message to a predetermined device. 
     The mobile router is responsive to the vehicle exceeding the predetermined speed to send a message to a predetermined device. 
     The mobile router is responsive to a second command to deactivate the operational mode. 
     The mobile router may comprise a stored predetermined time limit; and the mobile router deactivates the operational mode upon expiration of the predetermined time limit. 
     An embodiment of a vehicle in accordance with the principles of the invention comprises a valet mode program to provide valet mode functionality for the vehicle, a processor operable to execute the valet mode program, a predetermined distance limit, and a predetermined speed limit. The vehicle responds to externally generated commands from a predetermined source to activate or deactivate the valet mode. The processor is operable to determine if the predetermined distance limit is exceeded from the location of the vehicle when the valet mode is activated; and the processor is operable to determine if the vehicle exceeds the predetermined speed limit while the valet mode is activated. 
     The vehicle embodiment further may comprise: a wireless wide area network interface operable to access a cellular network and a wireless local area network. The commands are received via one of the wireless wide area network and the wireless local area network. 
     The predetermined source in the vehicle embodiment may comprise a wireless mobile device. The wireless mobile device comprises a valet mode application operable to activate and deactivate the valet mode. 
     The vehicle may further comprise a predetermined time period. The processor deactivates the valet mode at the earliest of the predetermined time period and receipt of a deactivate command. The processor responds to externally generated second commands from the predetermined source to change the predetermined time period to a second predetermined time period. The processor responds to externally generated third commands from the predetermined source to change the predetermined distance limit to a second predetermined distance period. The processor responds to externally generated fourth commands from the predetermined source to change the predetermined speed limit to a second predetermined speed period. 
     In an embodiment, the predetermined distance limit and the predetermined speed limit are downloaded to the vehicle via one of the wireless wide area network and the wireless local area network. 
     In various embodiments, the processor is operable to generate a message to the predetermined source if at least one of the predetermined speed limit or the predetermined distance is exceeded. 
     In one embodiment, a vehicle comprises: a stored predetermined distance limit; a stored predetermined speed limit; access to a global positioning system (GPS) receiver; and a mobile router. The processor utilizes the GPS receiver to substantially continuously determine the location of the vehicle; and the processor is responsive to a first command to activate an operational mode such that the present location of the vehicle is captured, the vehicle location is substantially continuously utilized to determine if the vehicle location exceeds the predetermined distance limit from the captured location and to determine if the vehicle exceeds the predetermined speed limit. 
     The processor may be responsive to the vehicle exceeding the predetermined distance from the captured location to send a message to a predetermined device. 
     The processor may be responsive to the vehicle exceeding the predetermined speed to send a message to a predetermined device. 
     The processor may be responsive to a second command to deactivate the operational mode. 
     In various embodiments, the vehicle comprises a stored predetermined time limit, and the processor deactivates the operational mode upon expiration of the predetermined time limit. 
     The processor may be responsive to a second command to deactivate the operational mode. 
     In embodiments, the vehicle comprises: a wireless wide area network interface (WAN) and a wireless local area network interface (WLAN). 
     The processor may receive the first command via one of the wireless WAN or WLAN. 
     The processor may receive the second command via one of the wireless WAN or WLAN. 
     The processor is operable to receive a substitute predetermined distance limit and to utilize the substitute predetermined distance limit in place of the predetermined distance limit. 
     In various embodiments, the vehicle is operable to receive a substitute predetermined speed limit and to utilize the substitute predetermined speed limit in place of the predetermined speed limit. The vehicle is also operable to receive a substitute predetermined distance limit and to utilize the substitute predetermined distance limit in place of the predetermined distance limit. 
     An embodiment of a method for providing a valet mode for a vehicle comprises: providing a mobile router in the vehicle; operating the mobile router to substantially continuously determine the current location of the vehicle; providing a valet application program to a wireless device; utilizing the valet application program to program the wireless device to provide a valet user interface; utilizing the valet user interface to activate and deactivate a valet mode at the mobile router; operating the mobile router such that when the valet mode is activated, the mobile router activates a predetermined a boundary of predetermined radius about the current location of the vehicle; automatically operating the mobile router when the valet mode is activated to detect if the boundary is exceeded; and operating the mobile router to automatically cause a notification to be sent to the wireless device upon the router detecting that the vehicle exceeds the boundary. 
     The method may comprise providing the valet application program to the wireless device as a downloadable program from a source accessed via the Internet. 
     The method may comprise: operating the mobile router in the valet mode for a predetermined period of time after the valet mode is activated; and automatically deactivating the valet mode upon expiration of the predetermined period. 
     The method may comprise utilizing the valet user interface to select the predetermined radius. 
     The method may further comprise storing the predetermined radius in the mobile router. 
     In various embodiments, the method may comprise coupling the router to a standardized vehicle bus, and obtaining distance traveled by the vehicle from the vehicle bus. 
     In other embodiments, the method may comprise: providing the vehicle with a global positioning system (GPS) receiver coupled to the router; and utilizing the GPS receiver in cooperation with the router to obtain distance traveled by the vehicle. 
     In various embodiments, the wireless device comprises at least one of a link to a wireless local area network and a link to a wireless wide area network. The method may further comprise downloading the valet application program to the wireless device via one of the device wireless local area network and the wireless wide area network. 
     The method may further comprise: operating the wireless device to activate the valet mode at the mobile router via one of the device wireless local area network and the device wireless wide area network; and deactivating the mobile router valet mode via one of the mobile router local area network and the mobile router wireless wide area network. 
     The method may further comprise operating the mobile router to send a notification message to the wireless device via one of a mobile router local area network and a mobile router wireless wide area network when the mobile router detects the one or both of the boundary and the maximum speed limit are exceeded. 
     Still further the method may comprise: providing the vehicle with a global positioning system (GPS) receiver coupled to the router; and operating the router to utilize the GPS receiver to obtain distance traveled by the vehicle. 
     The method may comprise operating the mobile router to send a notification message to the wireless device when the mobile router detects that the predetermined radius is exceeded. 
     In embodiments, the method may comprise operating the mobile router in the valet mode for a predetermined period of time after the valet mode is activated; and automatically deactivating the valet mode upon expiration of the predetermined period. 
     Embodiments may comprise utilizing the valet user interface to select the predetermined radius and the predetermined period of time. 
     Another embodiment of a method for providing a valet mode for a vehicle comprises: providing a mobile router in the vehicle, the mobile router comprising a wireless wide area network interface and a wireless local area network interface; providing the vehicle with a global positioning system GPS receiver; coupling the GPS receiver to the mobile router; providing a valet application program to a wireless device comprising a touch screen display, the wireless device having access to at least one of a wireless local area network and a wireless wide area network; utilizing the valet application program to produce an image of a button on the touch screen display; utilizing the button to activate and deactivate a valet mode such that when the valet mode is activated, the mobile router and the GPS receiver cooperate to establish a predetermined radius about the current location of the vehicle; and operating the mobile router in cooperation with the GPS receiver to detect if the GPS receiver indicates that the predetermined radius is exceeded. 
     The method of the embodiment may include: operating the mobile router to send a notification message to the wireless device when the mobile router detects the geo-fence boundary is exceeded; and may further include operating the mobile router in the valet mode for a predetermined period of time after the valet mode is activated; and automatically deactivating the valet mode upon expiration of the predetermined period. 
     In a further embodiment, a method for providing a valet mode for a vehicle comprises: providing a mobile router in the vehicle, the mobile router comprising a wireless wide area network interface and a wireless local area network; operating the mobile router to substantially continuously determine the current location of the vehicle; providing a valet application program to a wireless device programmable to comprise a customizable user interface, the wireless device having access to at least one of a wireless local area network and a wireless wide area network; utilizing the valet application program to program the wireless device to provide a valet user interface; utilizing the valet user interface to activate and deactivate a valet mode at the mobile router; operating the mobile router such that when the valet mode is activated, the mobile router activates a predetermined a boundary of predetermined radius about the current location of the vehicle and a maximum speed limit for the vehicle; operating the mobile router to detect if the vehicle the geo-fence boundary or the speed limit are exceeded; and operating the mobile router to cause a notification to be sent to the wireless device upon the router detecting if the vehicle exceeds the geo-fence or the speed limit. 
     The method may further comprise: coupling the router to a standardized vehicle bus; obtaining distance traveled by the vehicle from the vehicle bus; and obtaining vehicle speed from the vehicle bus. 
     The method may comprise: providing the vehicle with a global positioning system (GPS) receiver coupled to the router; utilizing the GPS receiver in cooperation with the router to obtain distance traveled by the vehicle; and utilizing the GPS receiver in cooperation with the router to obtain vehicle speed from the vehicle bus. 
     One embodiment of a method for providing a valet mode for a vehicle comprises: providing a mobile router in the vehicle, the mobile router comprising a wireless wide area network interface and a wireless local area network interface; providing the vehicle with a global positioning system GPS receiver; coupling the GPS receiver to the mobile router; providing a valet application program to a wireless device comprising a touch screen display, the wireless device having access to at least one of a wireless local area network and a wireless wide area network; utilizing the valet application program to produce an image of a button on the touch screen display; utilizing the button to activate and deactivate a valet mode such that when the valet mode is activated, the mobile router and the GPS receiver cooperate to establish a boundary of predetermined radius about the current location of the vehicle and a maximum speed limit for the vehicle; and operating the mobile router in cooperation with the GPS receiver to detect if the GPS receiver indicates that boundary or the speed limit are exceeded. 
     The method further comprises: operating the mobile router to send a notification message to the wireless device when the mobile router detects the one or both of the boundary and the maximum speed limit are exceeded. 
     A method of operating a network comprising a plurality of mobile routers each disposed in a corresponding vehicle is provided. The method comprises: downloading a valet mode application to a wireless mobile device; utilizing the valet mode application to program the wireless device to provide a valet user interface; associating one or more of the mobile routers to the wireless mobile device; providing each associated one or more mobile routers with a valet mode program; operating each associated one of more mobile routers to substantially continuously determine the current location of its the corresponding vehicle; utilizing the valet user interface to selectively activate and deactivate a valet mode at a predetermined one mobile router of the associated one or more of the mobile routers; operating the predetermined one mobile router such that when the valet mode is activated, the predetermined one mobile router saves the current location; operating the predetermined one mobile router such that when the valet mode is activated, the predetermined one mobile router monitors at least one of the location of the corresponding vehicle to determine if the vehicle travels beyond a predetermined radius about the current location of the vehicle and the speed of the vehicle to determine if the vehicle travels at a speed in excess of a predetermined speed; and operating the predetermined one mobile router to automatically cause a notification to be sent to the wireless mobile device in the event that the predetermined one mobile router detect that the corresponding vehicle exceeds the predetermined radius or the predetermined speed. 
     The method may further include downloading the valet application to the wireless device from a source accessed via the Internet. 
     In one embodiment, the method further comprises: operating the predetermined one mobile router in the valet mode for a predetermined period of time after the valet mode is activated; and automatically deactivating the valet mode upon expiration of the predetermined period. 
     In various embodiments, the method may include: utilizing the valet user interface to select at least one of the predetermined radius and the predetermined speed. 
     The method may comprise: storing the selected predetermined radius and the predetermined speed in the predetermined one mobile router. 
     In some embodiments, the method comprises: coupling the predetermined one mobile router to a standardized vehicle bus of the corresponding vehicle; and obtaining distance and speed data from the vehicle bus. 
     Such embodiments may further comprise: providing the corresponding vehicle with a global positioning system (GPS) receiver coupled to the predetermined one mobile router; and utilizing the GPS receiver in cooperation with the predetermined one mobile router to obtain distance traveled by the corresponding vehicle. 
     In various embodiments, the wireless mobile device comprises at least one of a link to a wireless local area network and a link to a wireless wide area network. The method may comprise: downloading the valet application program to the wireless mobile device via one of the device wireless local area network and the wireless wide area network. 
     The method may include: operating the wireless mobile device to activate the valet mode at the predetermined one mobile router via one of the device wireless local area network and the device wireless wide area network; and activating the predetermined one mobile router the valet mode via one of a mobile router local area network and a mobile router wireless wide area network. The method may further include: operating the wireless device to deactivate the valet mode at the predetermined one mobile router via one of the device wireless local area network and the device wireless wide area network; and deactivating the predetermined one mobile router the valet mode via one of the mobile router local area network and the mobile router wireless wide area network. 
     The embodiments may include: operating the predetermined one mobile router to send a notification message to the wireless device when the predetermined one mobile router detects that one of the predetermined radius and the predetermined speed is exceeded. 
     In certain embodiments, the method comprises: providing the corresponding vehicle with a global positioning system (GPS) receiver coupled to the predetermined one mobile router; and operating the predetermined one mobile router to utilize the GPS receiver to determine at least one of the current location of the corresponding vehicle and the speed of the corresponding vehicle. 
     The embodiments may include: operating the predetermined one mobile router to send a notification message to the wireless mobile device if the mobile router detects that one of the predetermined radius and the predetermined speed is exceeded. 
     The embodiments may further include: operating the predetermined one mobile router in the valet mode for a predetermined period of time after the valet mode is activated; and automatically deactivating the valet mode upon expiration of the predetermined period. 
     The method may further comprise: utilizing the wireless mobile device the valet user interface to select at least one of the predetermined radius, the predetermined speed, and the predetermined period of time. 
     The method may even further include: storing the at least one of the selected predetermined radius and the selected predetermined period of time in the predetermined one mobile router. 
     In yet another embodiment, a method is provided for operating a network comprising a plurality of mobile routers each disposed in a corresponding vehicle, and each mobile router comprising a wireless wide area network interface and a wireless local area network interface. The method comprises: downloading a valet mode application to a wireless mobile device; utilizing the valet mode application to program the wireless mobile device to provide a valet user interface. The wireless mobile device comprising a touch screen display and has access to at least one of a device wireless local area network and a device wireless wide area network. The method further comprises: utilizing the valet mode application to produce an image of a button on the touch screen display; associating one or more of the mobile routers to the wireless mobile device; providing each associated one or more the mobile routers with a valet mode program; coupling a global positioning system (GPS) receiver to the mobile router; utilizing the button to activate and deactivate a valet mode such that when the valet mode is activated, the mobile router and the GPS receiver cooperate to establish a predetermined radius about the current location of the vehicle; and operating the mobile router in cooperation with the GPS receiver to detect if the predetermined radius is exceeded. 
     An embodiment of a method of operating a network comprising a plurality of mobile routers each disposed in a corresponding vehicle and each comprising a wireless wide area network interface and a wireless local area network interface comprises: downloading a valet mode application to a wireless mobile device; utilizing the valet mode application to program the wireless mobile device to provide a customizable user interface. The wireless mobile device comprises a touch screen display, and has access to at least one of a device wireless local area network and a device wireless wide area network. The method further comprises: utilizing the valet mode application to produce an image of a button on the touch screen display; associating one or more of the mobile routers to the wireless mobile device; providing each associated one or more the mobile routers with a valet mode program; utilizing the button to activate and deactivate a valet mode such that when the valet mode is activated, the mobile router establishes a predetermined radius about the current location of the corresponding vehicle and a predetermined speed; operating the mobile router to substantially continuously determine the current location of the corresponding vehicle; operating the mobile router to detect if the predetermined radius or the predetermined speed is exceeded; and operating the mobile router to cause a notification to be sent to the wireless device upon the router detecting if the predetermined radius or the predetermined speed is exceeded. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING 
       The invention will be better understood by reading the following detailed description in conjunction with the drawing figures in which like designators refer to like elements, and in which: 
         FIG. 1  is a block diagram of a first mobile router network arrangement; 
         FIG. 2  is a block diagram of an expanded mobile router network arrangement; 
         FIG. 3  is a block diagram of a further expanded mobile router network arrangement; 
         FIG. 4  is a block diagram of a mobile router; 
         FIG. 5  is a more detailed block diagram of the mobile router of  FIG. 4 ; 
         FIG. 6  illustrates details of an expandable router network; 
         FIG. 7  illustrates further details of the network of  FIG. 6 ; 
         FIG. 8  illustrates a wireless mobile device; and 
         FIG. 9  illustrates steps of a method. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIG. 1  is a diagram of a mobile router network  100 . Mobile router network  100  comprises a plurality of vehicles  101 , each having therein a mobile router  112 . Each vehicle  101  includes a wireless local area network  115 . Each wireless local area network  115  may be in communication with one or more corresponding mobile devices  116  via a wireless communication link  114 . Each wireless local area network  115  includes mobile router  112  and may or may not include one or more mobile devices  116 . Each wireless local area network  115  may be, for example, a network compliant with industry standard IEEE 802.11 network, i.e., a Wi-Fi network, or a network compliant with industry standard IEEE 802.16, i.e., a WiMAX network, or a Bluetooth network, or any other suitable wireless network. 
     Each mobile device  116  may be any processor-based device having a wireless transceiver capable of receiving and transmitting data via the wireless communication link  114 . For example, one mobile device  116  may be a laptop (or notebook) computer equipped with a wireless network interface card, a wireless-enabled PDA, a pocket or palmtop computer, a Wi-Fi phone (e.g., a Skype phone or VoIP phone), a Wi-Fi appliance, a Sony PlayStation PSP or some other portable, network-enabled gaming station, a video screen, a digital camera, an audio player, a navigation device, a security camera, an alarm device, a wireless payment or POS device, or an automotive electronic device. 
     Mobile router  112  may act as a gateway between wireless network  115  and a backhaul network  20 . In one embodiment, backhaul network  120  is a cellular wireless network. Backhaul network  120  in turn may be connected to the Internet  118  or any other network, such as an intranet or another WAN, via a gateway  24 . 
     Mobile router  112  communicates with the backhaul network  120  via a backhaul wireless communication link  122 . Backhaul wireless communication link  122  may be provided by a wireless network that is part of the backhaul network  120 , such as a cellular wireless network. The cellular wireless network may be of any type. 
     Examples of such types of cellular network, include but are not limited to the following types: a Global System for Mobile Communications/General Packet Radio Service (GSM/GPRS) link; a UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) link; a Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) link; an Evolution-Data Optimized (EV-DO) link; an Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE) link; a 3GSM link; a Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT) link; a Digital AMPS (IS-136/TDMA) link; an Integrated Digital Enhanced Link (iDEN) link; a WiMAX link; or any other suitable wireless link. 
     Each mobile router  112  and its corresponding mobile device  116  are co-located in a vehicle  101  so that mobile router  112  is capable of being mobile and operable to establish connectivity whether mobile or stationary such that each end-user of a mobile device  116  can enjoy wireless connectivity to Internet  118  via mobile router  112  as the vehicle travels through cells or nodes associated with wireless network  122 . Vehicle  101  may be any type of vehicle that travels over and/or under land, over and/or under water, or in the air or space. The typical most common type of vehicle  101  that is likely to include a mobile router is a car, truck, or bus. 
     Each mobile router  112  may be mounted in a corresponding vehicle  101  in a secure and generally tamper-resistant location. For example, the mobile router  112  may be mounted in the trunk of an automobile, and the end-user of the mobile device  116  may be a passenger or driver of the automobile. That way, the end-user could enjoy wireless connectivity as the automobile moves between cells of the wireless network  122 . 
     Although only one mobile device  116  is shown in communication with each mobile router  112  shown in  FIG. 1 , numerous mobile devices  116  may be in communication with a corresponding mobile router  112  via the corresponding local area network  115 . 
     Cellular network cell site transceiver  130  may be used to provide a cellular link to mobile router  112  and both receive and transmit wireless signals to a mobile router  112  via one of the wireless cellular communication links  122 . A cellular communication network  132  of cellular backhaul network  120  may communicate via the worldwide web or Internet  118  or another network via one or more gateways  124 . Each communication network  132  may include conventional communication network elements to provide wireless cellular network service for each mobile router  112 . 
     Turning now to  FIG. 2 , mobile router network  100  is shown in a more expanded networked arrangement in which cellular backhaul network  120  is shown as having a plurality of cell site transceivers  130 , each of which can communicate with one or more vehicles  101  having a mobile router  112  therein.  FIG. 2  shows one gateway  124  to Internet  118 , but it will be appreciated that there may be a plurality of such gateways  124 , each of which may have access to the Internet  118  or to another network. 
     Turning now to  FIG. 3 , mobile router network  100  is illustrated in further expanded form to show that there may be a plurality of cellular backhaul networks  120  each comprising a number of cell site transceivers, each located in different areas serviced by the backhaul networks  120 , such that each mobile router  112  may stay in communication with a backhaul network  120  as each mobile router  112  moves between cells or nodes of the backhaul networks  120 . It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, that there is virtually no limit to the size of mobile router network  100 . 
     Each of  FIGS. 1 through 3  shows that mobile router network  110  comprises at least one network operations center  141 . Network operations center  141  comprises a database  143  and a network management system  145 . Network management system  145  is a combination of hardware and software used to monitor and administer or otherwise manage mobile router network  100 . Each mobile router  112  is managed as an individual network element. 
     Network management system  145 , comprises an authentication server  129 , a session manager  131 , and a communication server  133 . Communication server  133  is a combination of hardware and software used to manage communications between mobile routers  120 , and network management system  145 . 
       FIG. 4  is a simplified block diagram of a mobile router  112  situated in a vehicle  101 . Mobile router  112  comprises processor  440 , one or more memory units  442 , a backhaul network interface or wide area network interface or cellular network interface  444 , and a local network interface  446 . A system bus  448  interconnects processor  440 , memory units  442 , backhaul network interface  444  and local network interface  446 . 
     Backhaul or cellular network interface  444  interfaces with and provides a wireless communication link with backhaul or cellular network  120  via cell site transceiver  130 . Backhaul or cellular network interface  444  may interface with one or more types of wireless cellular communication links  122 . For example, the backhaul cellular network interface  444  may interface to any one or more of: a Global System for Mobile Communications/General Packet Radio Service (GSM/GPRS) link; a UMTS (Universal Mobile Telecommunications System) link; a Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) link; an Evolution-Data Optimized (EV-DO) link; an Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution (EDGE) link; a 3GSM link; a Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT) link; a Digital AMPS (IS-136/TDMA) link; an Integrated Digital Enhanced Link (iDEN) link; a WiMAX link; or any other suitable wireless link. 
     Local network interface  446  interfaces and provides a wireless communication link  114  with wireless local area network  115 . Similarly, local network interface  446  may interface to one or more types of wireless network links  114  such as a Wi-Fi, WiMAX, or Bluetooth link. 
     Processor  440  may execute various programs or instruction code stored in memory  442 . Memory  442  may comprise one or more types of computer-readable media. As such, memory  442  may comprise one or more memory chips, optical memory devices, magnetic memory devices, or other memory devices. 
     Various programs or program modules or applications are executable by processor  440 . The program modules include a routing module  450 , a link monitor module  452 , a session proxy module  454 , and a serial port data publisher module  456 . The program modules  450 ,  452 ,  454 ,  456  may be stored in portions of memory  442  or in one or move separate memories. 
     Routing module  450  is executed by processor  440  to route data packets between wireless network  415  and backhaul or cellular network  420 . Link monitor program  452  monitors cellular communication links  122  (layer 2) and also Internet communication links (layer 3) via backhaul or cellular network  120  by sending test or probing data packets and monitoring for responses thereto. By monitoring the sending and receiving of test packets and responses, processor  440  executing link monitor program  452  detects if either (or both) of cellular communication link or Internet  118  link fails. 
     When processor  440 , executing link monitor module  52 , detects a drop-off, the dropped link is automatically reestablished to minimize the interruption in service to the end user. 
     In many prior art mobile routers, when communications links are lost, the end-user&#39;s applications and network sessions are terminated. The end-user has to restart the applications and/or session when the communications links and network connection are reestablished. 
     When processor  440  detects a failure in one or both of the communications link  122  or Internet  118  link, processor  440  initiates remedial action by attempting to reestablish the link or links. Processor  440  may reestablish the link before any applications on the corresponding mobile device  116  have to be restarted. That way, the user does not have to restart the applications or sessions. The user just typically notices that the applications/sessions slowed for a brief period of time while the connection was being reestablished. 
     Link monitor module  452 , as executed on processor  440 , provides adaptive programming. If backhaul or cellular network interface  44  receives data packets over backhaul wireless communication link  122 , processor  440  sends fewer probing test data packets. Conversely, if backhaul or cellular network interface  444  does not receive data packets, processor  440  sends more probing test data packets. By monitoring data packets received via backhaul or cellular network interface  444 , processor  440  determines that the interface is functioning. Accordingly, processor  440  sends data test packets less frequently. 
     Processor  440 , executing link monitor module  452 , monitors backhaul network interface  444  to determine that data packets are received. If processor  440  determines that backhaul wireless communication link  122  is working, then processor  440  sends fewer active probes on the backhaul or cellular network  120 . 
     Processor  440 , by executing session proxy module  454  acts as a session proxy for all TCP sessions going through mobile router  112 . When a mobile device  116  seeks to establish a TCP session with a destination such as a third party server  126  coupled to Internet  118 ,  440  terminates the TCP session coming from mobile device  116  and, instead, establishes a TCP session via backhaul network interface  444  with the destination. Mobile router  112  also maintains a separate TCP session with mobile device  116  via local wireless communication link  114 . 
     All end-user traffic between mobile device  116  and the destination is transparently routed through mobile router  112  during the two separate sessions. If one session such as the backhaul wireless communication link  122  goes down that does not negatively affect the session between the mobile router  112  and mobile device  116 . As a result, processor  440  executing session proxy program module  454  maintains a TCP session to mobile device  116 . If applications running on mobile device  116  are dependent upon a TCP session, the applications may continue to run because there is a TCP session with the mobile router  112 , even though the TCP session over the backhaul or cellular wireless communication link  122  is lost. When communications via backhaul or cellular communication link  122  are reestablished, mobile device  116  is able to keep running its applications and session without having to restart the applications. 
     When communication over backhaul network or cellular communication link  122  is interrupted, processor  440 , executing session proxy program module  454 , prevents the TCP session for wireless communication link  114  to mobile device  116  from starting its back-off timers. Under TCP protocol, mobile device  116  would normally assume that it cannot forward packets because of network congestion and it would accordingly start to slow down the session. In contrast, processor  440  executing session proxy module  454  maintains a TCP session between mobile router  112  and mobile device  116 . Mobile  116  device does not assume that network congestion is a problem and the TCP session between mobile router  112  and mobile device  116  does not slow down. 
     Execution of session proxy module  454  by processor  440  may be disabled by mobile device via a control panel for mobile router  112  displayed on mobile device  116 . A user can disable execution of session proxy program module  454  when the user wants to maintain a TCP session with the destination. 
     Processor  440 , when executing serial port data publisher module  456 , makes data received from a serial device  436  connected to a serial port  438  available via mobile router  112  as a TCP stream or as some other type of data stream, such as HS-TCP or SCPS data stream. A remote database  125 , as shown in  FIG. 1  may be populated with the data from device  436  via backhaul or cellular network  120  and Internet  118  so that data from serial device  436  can be remotely accessed via the Internet  118 . 
     Serial device  436  may communicate with mobile router  112  using any suitable serial data protocol, including the USB (Universal Serial Bus) standard, the RS-232 standard, the RS-485 standard, or the IEEE 1394 (FireWire) standard, for example. 
     Serial device  436  may be any suitable type of serial device, such as, for example, a GPS receiver. Other types of serial data devices  436  may be used. Serial device  436  may be a vehicle telematics device that captures data regarding the performance and operation of the vehicle (e.g., diagnostic data) in which the device is installed. Serial device  436  may be a point-of-sale (POS) device that captures sale or payment information. 
     Serial data device  436  may also be a remote control for an in-car entertainment system that enables downloading music, video, games, etc., to third party systems or a device for interfacing to communication systems. 
     Rather than transmitting the data to a central server, e.g., database  125  shown in  FIG. 1 , a remote user could access mobile router  112  to access the data from serial device  436  directly. In one embodiment, an authenticated remote user could access an authentication server  123  as shown in  FIG. 1  to determine the address of a specific one mobile router  112 . The remote user could then use that address to communicate with mobile router  112  directly. Similarly, a local end-user of the mobile router  112  could access the data from the serial device via the local wireless network  114 . 
     Processor  440  can output data and command signals via serial interface  438  to serial device  436 . Utilizing serial interface  438 , processor  440  may activate and control various components and/or systems of a vehicle  101 . Serial device  436  may be able to shut of the vehicle engine, unlock the doors, activate alarm functions, etc. Serial device  436  may also, according to various embodiments, perform payment functions, download data, receive advertising, entertainment, gaming, and/or information, as well as perform network management and control. 
     Each mobile router  112  includes a communication agent  441 . Communication agent  441 , in the embodiment shown, is a program executed by processor  440 , but in other embodiments, communication agent  441  may be a separate processor and program. Communication agent  441  cooperatively operates with communication server  133  shown in  FIG. 1 . 
     Processor  440  of each mobile router  112  has the ability to run applications that can perform functions and collect data independently of whether or not mobile router  112  is linked to network management system  120 . 
     Each mobile router has associated with it a specific identifier that is maintained in database  145 . The specific identifier can be any unique identifier such as a router serial number or a vehicle identification number. Network operations center  141 , utilizing communication server  133 , is capable of selectively communicating with each mobile router  112 . 
     Advantageously, the selective communication between each mobile router  112  and network operation center  141  permits the downloading of application programs such as a valet program  565  as described in detail herein below to each of mobile routers  112  for storage in memory  442  on a selective basis, the communication of data obtained from each router  112  as a consequence of execution of a downloaded application program, and/or the communication of statistical information obtained in or by a mobile router as a result of execution of an application program. 
     In addition, network operation center  141  is operable to facilitate the downloading of application programs ordered by or for each mobile router  112  directly or indirectly from third party servers  126 . 
     Network operations center  145  also sends predetermined commands to specific predetermined specific mobile routers  112  for immediate execution or for execution at a predetermined specified interval. 
     As shown in  FIG. 5  each mobile router  112  stores application programs in memory  565 . Each mobile router  112  is operable to collect data utilizing application programs  565  as well as from interfaces to the vehicle in which mobile router  12  is installed and/or from peripherals  430  coupled to mobile router  112  via serial data interface  438  and/or from mobile device  16 . The collected data is marked with a timestamp and stored in memory  442  of mobile router  112 . Depending on the nature of the data, mobile router  112  may process the data and prepare the resulting processed data for upload or mobile router  112  may prepare the data immediately for upload to network management system  120 . In accordance with one embodiment, the data may be provided by a telematics device or devices. 
     In certain embodiments, each vehicle  101  includes a vehicle network bus  591  that typically utilizes a standardized protocol over which data or commands may be communicated with various sensors, nodes, processors and other vehicular apparatus coupled to the vehicle network bus. 
     Vehicle network bus  591  is a specialized internal communications network that interconnects components inside a vehicle (e.g. automobile, bus, train, industrial or agricultural vehicle, ship, or aircraft). Special requirements for vehicle control such as assurance of message delivery, assured non-conflicting messages, assured time of delivery as well as low cost, EMF noise resilience, redundant routing and other characteristics are met with the use of various standardized networking protocols. 
     Standardized vehicle network bus protocols include Controller Area Network (CAN), Local Interconnect Network (LIN) and others. 
     Vehicle network bus  591  provides access to the various vehicle electronic control modules in the vehicle. Some of the typical electronic modules on today&#39;s vehicles are the Engine Control Unit (ECU), the Transmission Control Unit (TCU), the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and body control modules (BCM). 
     A vehicle electronic control module typically gets its input from sensors (speed, temperature, pressure, etc.) that it uses in its computation. Various actuators are used to enforce the actions determined by the module (turn the cooling fan on, change gear, etc.). The electronic control modules need to exchange data among themselves during the normal operation of the vehicle. For example, the engine needs to tell the transmission what the engine speed is, and the transmission needs to tell other modules when a gear shift occurs. This need to exchange data quickly and reliably led to the development of vehicle network bus  591 . Vehicle network bus  591  is the medium of data exchange. 
     Vehicle network bus  591  is utilized to create a central network in the vehicle  101 . Each electronic control modules is ‘plugged’ into the network and can communicate with any other electronic control module installed on the network via vehicle network bus  591 . Each electronic control module controls specific components related to its function and communicates with the other modules as necessary, using a standard protocol, over the vehicle network bus  591 . 
     In addition, vehicle network bus  591  may utilize any one of a number of physical transmission media, including, but not limited to: single wire, twisted pair, and fiber optic. 
     Each mobile router  112  includes a vehicle network bus interface  571  and a connector  573  that connects to the vehicle network bus  591  of vehicle  101 . 
     Each vehicle  101  comprises a vehicle network bus  591  and a mobile router  112 . Mobile router  112  comprises a local area network interface  446  comprising a first wireless transceiver  446 A of a first predetermined type to provide a link  114  to first a local area network  114  and a wide area network interface  444  comprising a second wireless transceiver  444 A of a second predetermined type to provide a link  122  to a wide area network  122 . The embodiment further comprises processor  440  to control operation of the local area network interface  446  and the wide area network interface  444 . One of the wide area network interface  444  and the local area network interface  446  is selectively operable to establish a wireless communication link with network management system  141  comprising a communication server  133 . Each mobile router  112  further comprises a communication agent  513 , and an application  565  executable by the  440  to selectively acquire predetermined data from the vehicle network bus  591 . Communication agent  513  is operable to upload the predetermined data obtained from vehicle network bus  591  to network management system  141  of  FIGS. 1, 2, 3 . 
     Processor  440  is operable to acquire the predetermined data during time periods that wide area network interface  444  is not communicating with network management system  141 . Communication agent  513  is operable to upload the predetermined data to network management system  141  upon occurrence of a predetermined event. 
     The predetermined event may comprise a predetermined time period that may be the time wide area network interface  444  is in communication with network management system  141  and/or the predetermined event is determined by the predetermined data, such as, for example, data that indicates deployment of an air bag. 
     Mobile router  112  stores the predetermined data in memory  567 . 
     Processor  440  provides a time stamp for the predetermined data at the time the predetermined acquired data is acquired. The time stamp is stored in memory  567  in association with the corresponding predetermined data. 
     Processor  440  is operable to assign a priority for the predetermined data; and is operable to execute a predetermined action to take with the predetermined data. 
     Processor  440  is operable to initiate immediate upload of the predetermined data to network management system  141  of the predetermined data having a predetermined one assigned priority. By way of non-limiting example, data indicating deployment of air bags would be assigned a priority for immediate upload. 
     Processor  440  is operable to control upload of predetermined data having a first predetermined one assigned priority at a first data rate. Processor  440  is operable to control upload of second predetermined data having a predetermined second assigned priority at a second predetermined data rate, the second predetermined data rate being slower than the first predetermined data rate. 
     Communication agent  513  is operable to determine if uploading of the predetermined data is interrupted. Communication agent  513  is operable in cooperation with the communication server  133  to restore uploading of the predetermined data to network management system  141  from the point of interruption when a communication link between the network management system  141  communication server  133  and the communication agent  513  is restored. 
     Processor  440  is operable to process the predetermined data prior to the data being uploaded; and processor  440  is operable to store the processed predetermined data as the predetermined data in memory  567 . 
     A time stamp is generated for the predetermined data when it is acquired. The time stamp is stored in memory  567  in association with the corresponding processed predetermined data. 
     Communication agent  513  may be further operable to determine when uploading occurs in cooperation with the application program or programs  565 . 
     The predetermined data may comprise statistical data and/or diagnostic data. The diagnostic data is obtained via the vehicle network bus interface  571 . Processor  440  is operable to process the diagnostic data to generate message data. Communication agent  513  is operable to upload the message data to network management system  141  via one of the local area network interface  446  and the wide area network interface  444 . 
     Application or applications  565  is or are downloaded to the vehicle via one of the wide area network interface  444  and the local area network interface  446 . 
     It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the various functions of each of the plurality of mobile routers  112  may be integrated directly into a vehicle  101 . In that instance, a vehicle  101  may comprise a vehicle network bus  591 ; a local area network interface  546  comprising a first wireless transceiver  546 A of a first predetermined type to provide a link  114  to first a local area network  115 ; a wide area network interface  444  comprising a second wireless transceiver  444 A of a second predetermined type to provide a link  122  to a wide area network  120 ; processor  140  to control operation of the local area network interface  446  and the wide area network interface  444 . At least one of the wide area network interface  446  and the local area network interface  444  is selectively operable to establish a wireless communication link with a network management system  141  comprising a communication server  133 . Vehicle  101  further comprises a communication agent  441  and one or more applications  565  executable by processor  140  to selectively acquire predetermined data from the vehicle network bus  591 . Communication agent  513  is operable to upload the predetermined data to network management system  141 . 
     Data for uploading can be prioritized and rate limited by processor  140 . By way of non-limiting example, if the data has a high priority, such as an indication of airbag deployment then the data is immediately prioritized over anything else and is uploaded. If the data has a low priority it can be sent at a low bit rate so as not to interfere with the experience of the user of mobile device  16  or anything the user might be doing. For example, low priority data may be “trickled up” or uploaded at 10 Kbps. 
     If the uploading of data from a mobile router  112  or vehicle  101  is interrupted for any reason the session, such as, for example, by loss of communications via a wireless wide area network communication link  122 , mobile router  112  or processor  440  will restore the uploading of data where the uploading had left off, when a communication link is again established to communication server  133 . 
     The number of mobile routers  112  may be very large, and may number millions of mobile routers  112  or other mobile devices. To efficiently provide an arrangement for tracking/monitoring the number of routers, a distributed network arrangement and method is provided for providing communication to the routers. More specifically, to support the ability of the system to scale up back-end systems that support mobile devices in vehicles that number from a few thousand to millions, we developed a method and architecture that allows for easy addition of capacity as the networked number of mobile routers increases. 
     Every mobile router  112  is configured to communicate with a communication server for uploading of data and for downloading content. 
     Mobile router  112  comprises an interface  444  to a wireless communications link; a memory  442  storing information comprising configuration information  407 ; a memory  508  storing main server information utilizable to identify a main network server; and a communications agent  513  operable with the interface  444  to establish communication via the wireless communications link  122  to a network  600  shown in  FIG. 6  comprising a main server SP 000  and a plurality of group servers SP 001  . . . SPxxx. Network  600  is an expanded version of network  100  shown in  FIGS. 1, 2, and 3 . Communications agent  513  is operable such that its initial communication to network  600  utilizes the main server information stored in memory  508  to establish a first communication with main server SP 000 . Mobile router  112  further comprises processor or microprocessor  440  operable with communications agent  513  to interact with main server SP 000  to upload the configuration information from memory  407  to main server SP 000  via network  600  shown in  FIG. 6 . 
     Communications agent  513  is operable to receive group server identification information from main server SP 000  when communicating with main server SP 000  a second time. Microprocessor  440  is operable to store the group server identification information in memory  508 . The group server information comprises information identifying one or more servers corresponding with a predetermined group assigned by main server SP 000 . Communications agent  513  utilizes the group server identification information for subsequent communication via network  600 . 
     The group server identification information is received by communications agent  513  from main server SP 000  the second time mobile router  112  establishes communication with main server SP 000 . Communications agent  513  utilizes the group server identification information to access one group server of the plurality of group servers SP 001 , . . . , SPxxx. 
     The group server identification information comprises identification information for a predetermined number of group servers selectively assigned from the plurality of group servers SP 001 , . . . , SPxxx. 
     Turning back to  FIG. 5 , microprocessor  440  is operable to select a group server from the predetermined number of group servers with which to communicate via network  600 . Microprocessor  440  selects the group server from the predetermined number of group servers in accordance with a predetermined selection algorithm. In one embodiment, the group server is selected by accessing the first available group server by attempting to access the group servers in sequential order as stored in memory  508 . 
     Although the above description refers to each server in the singular, in an embodiment of the invention, each group server SP 001 , . . . , SPXXX shown in  FIG. 6  comprises a corresponding pair of servers P, S that are identically configured. 
     One group server P, S of each group server pair operates as a primary server P to track and monitor the plurality of mobile routers and the corresponding paired server is selected as a backup secondary server S. Each primary group server P and its corresponding secondary server S operate such that data in primary group server P is replicated into its corresponding secondary server S. 
     Primary group server P and the secondary server S operate to determine if a failure occurs in the primary group server; and the primary group server P and the secondary server S operate to automatically switch to the secondary server as primary group server upon occurrence of a failure. After the original primary group server P is repaired, it is manually switched back in service. 
     The group server pairs SP 001 , . . . , SPxxx are dispersed to be located at dispersed geographic locations and have different network peering points. 
     When a new mobile router  112 N is provisioned at the factory, it is configured to talk to the “main” communications server pair SP 000  at the network operations center  141  shown in  FIG. 1  by storing access information for “main” communications server pair SP 000  in memory  508 . Each newly provisioned mobile router  112 N registers with the “main” communications server pair SP 000  and uploads its configuration information to “main” communications server pair SP 000 . When mobile router  112 N registers with the “main” communications server pair SP 000  it calls into an “unassigned” server group address by default. 
     When mobile router  112 N is sold and shipped it is assigned to a group selected from a plurality of groups RG 001 -RGyyy. The group to which a mobile router  112  is assigned is usually customer specific. Non-limiting examples of such customers to which a mobile router is assigned include automotive companies, e.g., Chrysler, or electronics retailers, e.g., Best Buy. 
     The next time mobile router  112 N comes on line and talks to main communications server pair SP 000 , main communications server pair SP 000  will identify that mobile router  112 N has been assigned to a group selected from the groups RG 001  through RGyyy that is different from the “unassigned” group. Main communications server pair SP 000  will then reassign mobile router  112 N to talk to a new communications server pair that handles the group to which mobile router  112 N has been assigned by downloading the new communication server pair access information to memory  508 . The new communications server pair is selected from the communications server pairs SP 001  through SPxxx 
     There can be multiple communications server pairs per group and each communications server can support multiple groups. 
     Each mobile router  112  is configured by the main communications server pair SP 000  with addresses for multiple communications server pairs. The addresses for the multiple communication server pairs are stored in mobile router  112  memory  508  shown in  FIG. 5 . Memory  508  may be an assigned portion of memory  442  as shown or may be a separate memory. Each mobile router  112  will access the server addresses stored in its corresponding memory  508  in a predetermined order. If a communication server pair associated with a first address is unavailable, mobile router  112  will access the next address of a communications server stored in memory  508 . Mobile router  112  will access communications server addresses from memory  508  in predetermined order until communications with a corresponding communications server is established. 
     Main server pair SP 000  includes a manager program. The manager program is provided so that main server pair SP 000  may communicate to all of communications servers SP 001 -SPXXX, so an operator of the network system never needs to know which communications server communicates with which router. The communication by main server pair SP 000  to server pairs SP 001 -SPXXX is illustrated in  FIG. 7 . 
     Communications server pairs SP 001 -SPXXX do not need to be located in the same facility. It is preferable that the communications server pairs SP 001 -SPXXX are not in the same facility. It is highly preferable that the communications server pairs SP 001 -SPxxx are geographically disperse and have different network peering points. 
     With the server network architecture described above, added capacity is easily added by simply adding additional server pairs and configuring them as available within the system manager at the network operations center SP 000 . 
     In a particularly advantage embodiment of the invention each mobile router  101  may be operated in a “valet mode” in conjunction with a wireless mobile device such as, for example, a so-called smart phone. We provide an application, i.e., a valet application that may be downloaded to a smartphone or other wireless mobile device. The valet application is particularly advantages with a smartphone or other wireless mobile device having a touch screen. The valet application programs the wireless mobile device to provide a valet mode control button or icon. Touching the button causes a command to be sent to a corresponding mobile router to enable a valet mode in the mobile router. 
     When the valet mode is enabled in a mobile router, a predetermined boundary is established for the mobile router based on its location at the time the valet mode is enabled. By way of example, the predetermined boundary may be a radius may of e.g., 100 yards from the vehicles location. If the vehicle leaves moves outside the boundary, the mobile router causes a message, e.g., a SMS message, to be sent to the wireless mobile device alerting that the boundary has been exceeded. 
     When the valet mode is enabled, the corresponding mobile router also monitors the speed of the vehicle. If the speed exceeds a predetermined speed, e.g., 65 mph, the mobile router causes a message, e.g., a SMS message, to be sent to the wireless mobile device alerting that the predetermined speed has been exceeded. 
     Both the predetermined radius and the predetermined speed are automatically configured in the mobile router. 
     The mobile router automatically disables the valet mode a predetermined time period, e.g. 4 hours, after it is enabled. 
     The user of the wireless mobile device can change the predetermined default parameters for the radius, maximum speed, and time period. 
       FIG. 8  illustrates a wireless mobile device  801  having digital communication capability. In various embodiments, wireless mobile device  801  may be a any one of a number of wireless mobile devices, including, for example, a smartphone or a tablet or pad type computer. Wireless mobile device  801  and comprises a user input/output interface  803  comprising a touch screen display  805 . A valet mode application  807  is stored in the wireless mobile device  801 . Valet mode application  807  is executable by the wireless mobile device  801  to provide control for a valet mode in cooperation with a mobile router  112  disposed within a vehicle  101 . Wireless mobile device  801  executes the valet mode application  807  to produce a predetermined image  809  on touch screen display  805 . Touch screen display  805  is operable such that touching predetermined image  809  is utilized to activate and deactivate a valet mode operation in mobile router  112 . The valet mode operates mobile router  112  such that when the vehicle exceeds one or more predetermined conditions, mobile router  112  provides a notification to wireless mobile device  801 . 
     Predetermined image  809  may be an image of a button or an icon or other image. Wireless mobile device  801  is operable in response to a touch of predetermined image  809  to cause activation of the valet mode in its corresponding mobile router  112 . Wireless mobile device  801  is operable in response to a subsequent touch of predetermined image  809  to cause deactivation of the valet mode in mobile router  112 . 
     The one or more predetermined conditions are preset in mobile router  112 . 
     The predetermined conditions may comprise one or both of a boundary determined by a predetermined radius, e.g., 100 yards and a predetermined vehicle speed, e.g. 65 mph. 
     The valet mode in mobile router  112  remains activated for a predetermined time period, e.g., 4 hours. However, wireless mobile device  801  may deactivate the valet mode by a subsequent touching of predetermined image  809 . 
     Wireless mobile device  801  is operable to change the one or more predetermined conditions. Wireless mobile device  801  may selectively change one or more of the predetermined radius, predetermined speed, and predetermined time period to a user determined condition. The predetermined conditions are stored in the corresponding mobile router  112 . 
     Valet mode application  807  may be downloaded to a wireless mobile device  801  by accessing a server, such as server  145  shown in  FIG. 1 . Turning back to  FIG. 8 , after valet mode application  807  is downloaded to wireless mobile device  801 , wireless mobile device  801  executes valet mode application  807  setup. As part of the setup, a valet mode button or other predetermined image  809  is provided on touch screen display  805 . Wireless mobile device  801  uploads an identification of a specific corresponding router  112  to server  145  so that wireless mobile device  801  is associated with the specific corresponding router  112 . 
     Server  145  either downloads a corresponding valet mode application  571  to mobile router  112  or if the valet mode application  571  is already resident in mobile router  112 , server  145  activates the valet mode application. As part of the setup of valet mode application  145  in mobile router  112 , the predetermined conditions are stored in mobile router  112  if they are not already stored therein. 
     One embodiment of the invention is an application for use with a wireless mobile device  801  comprising a touch screen display  805 . Valet mode application  807  is downloadable to and stored by wireless mobile device  801 . Valet mode application  807  is executable by wireless mobile device  801  to provide control for a valet mode in mobile router  112  disposed within vehicle  101 . Valet mode application is executable by wireless mobile device to produce a predetermined image  809  on touch screen display  805 . Valet mode application  807  is executable such that touching predetermined image  809  is utilized to cause a command to be sent to mobile router  112  to activate and deactivate a valet mode operation in mobile router  112 . Valet mode operates in mobile router  112  such that when the vehicle in which mobile router  112  is installed exceeds one or more predetermined conditions, mobile router  112  provides a notification to wireless mobile device  801 . 
     The one or more predetermined conditions are preset in mobile router  112 . However, valet mode application  807  is executable by wireless mobile device  801  to change the one or more predetermined conditions. As described above, the predetermined conditions comprise a predetermined distance radius  573 , a predetermined vehicle speed  575 , and a predetermined time limit  577 . 
     Predetermined image  809  may comprise one or both of a button and an icon. Wireless mobile device  801  is operable in response to a touch of predetermined image  809  to activate the valet mode in the mobile router  112 . Wireless mobile device  801  is operable in response to a second touch of predetermined image  809  to cause deactivation of the valet mode in mobile router  112 . 
     Valet mode application  571  is loaded in mobile router  112  to provide valet mode functionality for vehicle  101  in which mobile router  112  is disposed. Processor  440  is operable to execute valet mode program  571 . 
     Mobile router  112  responds to externally generated commands originating at wireless mobile device  801  to activate or deactivate the valet mode in mobile router  112 . Processor  440  is operable to determine if the predetermined distance limit is exceeded from the location of the vehicle when the valet mode is activated; and processor  440  is operable to determine if the vehicle exceeds the predetermined speed limit when the valet mode is activated. 
     Processor  440  deactivates the valet mode at the earliest of expiration of predetermined time period  577  and receipt of a deactivate command from wireless mobile device  801 . 
     Mobile router  112  also responds to externally generated commands originating at wireless mobile device  801  to change predetermined time period  577  to a second predetermined time period and responds to externally generated commands to change the predetermined distance limit  573  to a second predetermined distance period and responds to commands to change the predetermined speed limit  575  to a second predetermined speed period. Processor  440  may automatically reset the predetermined time limit, predetermined distance, and predetermined speed limit to the initial values upon termination of the valet mode. 
     Predetermined distance limit  573 , predetermined speed limit  575 , and predetermined time period  577  are downloaded to mobile router  112  via one of wireless wide area network interface  444  and wireless local area network interface  446 . 
     Mobile router  112  is operable to generate a predetermined message to wireless mobile device  801  if at least one of predetermined speed limit  573  or predetermined distance  575  is exceeded. The predetermined message is stored in memory  442  in association with valet mode application  571 , as is contact information for wireless mobile device  801 . 
     Mobile router  112  has access to a global positioning system (GPS) receiver  593 . Mobile router  112  utilizes GPS receiver  593  to substantially continuously determine the location of vehicle  101  in which mobile router  112  is disposed. Mobile router  112  is responsive to a first command to activate an operational mode such that the present location of vehicle  101  is captured from GPS receiver  593 . The location of vehicle  101  is, thereafter during activation of the valet mode, substantially continuously monitored and utilized to determine if the current location of vehicle  101  exceeds the predetermined distance limit  573  from the captured location and to determine if vehicle  101  exceeds the predetermined speed limit  575 . 
     A vehicle  101  in accordance with the principles of the invention comprises a valet mode program  571  to provide valet mode functionality, a processor  440  operable to execute the valet mode program  571 , a predetermined distance limit  573 , and a predetermined speed limit  575 . Vehicle  101  responds to externally generated commands from a predetermined source  801  to activate or deactivate the valet mode. Processor  440  is operable to determine if the predetermined distance limit  573  is exceeded from the location of vehicle  101  when the valet mode is activated, and processor  440  is operable to determine if vehicle  101  exceeds predetermined speed limit  575  while the valet mode is activated. 
     Vehicle  101  further comprises wireless wide area network interface  444  operable to access a cellular network  120 , and a wireless local area network interface  446 . Commands are received via one of wireless wide area network interface  444  and wireless local area network interface  446 . 
     The predetermined source in vehicle  101  may comprise a wireless mobile device  116  that may be the wireless mobile device  801  shown in  FIG. 8 . Wireless mobile device  801  comprises a valet mode application operable to activate and deactivate the valet mode in vehicle  101 . 
     Vehicle  101  further comprises a predetermined time period  577 . Processor  440  deactivates the valet mode at the earliest of the predetermined time period  577  and receipt of a deactivate command. Processor  440  responds to externally generated second commands from wireless mobile device  801  to change the predetermined time period  577  to a second predetermined time period. Processor  440  responds to externally generated third commands from wireless mobile device  801  to change the predetermined distance limit to a second predetermined distance period. Processor  440  responds to externally generated fourth commands from wireless mobile device  801  to change the predetermined speed limit  577  to a second predetermined speed period. 
     The predetermined distance limit  573  and the predetermined speed limit  575  are downloaded to vehicle  101  via one of the wireless wide area network interface  444  and the wireless local area network interface  446 . 
     Processor  440  is operable to generate a message to wireless mobile device  801  if at least one of the predetermined speed limit  573  or the predetermined distance  575  is exceeded. 
     Vehicle  101  may further comprise a global positioning system (GPS) receiver  593  and a mobile router. Vehicle  101  utilizes GPS receiver  593  to substantially continuously determine the location of the vehicle. Processor  440  is responsive to a first command to activate an operational mode such that the present location of vehicle  101  is captured. The location of vehicle  101  is substantially continuously monitored by processor  440  to determine if the location of vehicle  101  exceeds the predetermined distance limit  573  from the initial captured location and to determine if vehicle  101  exceeds the predetermined speed limit. 
     Processor  440  is responsive to vehicle  101  exceeding predetermined distance  573  from the initial captured location to send a message to a wireless mobile device  801 . 
     Processor  440  is responsive to vehicle  101  exceeding predetermined speed  575  to send a message to wireless mobile device  801 . 
     Processor  440  may be responsive to a second command to deactivate the operational mode. 
       FIG. 9  illustrates a method for providing a valet mode for a vehicle  101 . The method includes: the step  901  of providing a mobile router in a vehicle; providing a GPS receiver in the vehicle at step  903 ; operating the mobile router to substantially continuously determine the current location of the vehicle at step  905 ; providing a valet application program to a wireless mobile device comprising a touch screen display at step  907 ; utilizing the valet application program to provide a user interface comprising an image such as, for example a button or other icon at step  909 ; utilizing the wireless device to program in the mobile router a radius for use as a boundary, a maximum permitted speed, and a predetermined time period that the valet mode will be activated at step  911 ; utilizing the user interface to activate and deactivate a valet mode at the mobile router at step  913 ; operating mobile router such that when the valet mode is activated, the current location is captured at step  915 ; operating the mobile router to activate a boundary utilizing the predetermined radius about the current location of vehicle at step  917 ; automatically operating the mobile router when the valet mode is activated to detect if the boundary is exceeded at step  919 ; automatically operating the mobile router when the valet mode is activated to detect if the maximum speed limit is exceeded at step  921 ; operating the mobile router to automatically cause a notification to be sent to the wireless mobile device if the boundary and/or the speed limit is exceeded at step  923 ; and terminating the valet mode in the mobile router upon the earliest of expiration of the time period or receipt of a deactivate command. 
     The method may further comprise: coupling the router to a standardized vehicle bus; obtaining distance traveled by the vehicle from the vehicle bus; and obtaining vehicle speed from the vehicle bus. 
     The method may further include downloading the valet application to the wireless device from a source accessed via the Internet. 
     In yet another embodiment, a method is provided for operating a network comprising a plurality of mobile routers  112  each disposed in a corresponding vehicle  101  as shown in  FIGS. 1 and 2  and each mobile router  112  comprising a wireless wide area network interface  440  and a wireless local area network interface  444  as shown in  FIG. 5 . The method comprises: downloading a valet mode application  809  to a wireless mobile device  801  shown in  FIG. 8 ; utilizing the valet mode application to program wireless mobile device  801  to provide a valet user interface  809 . Wireless mobile device  801  comprising a touch screen display  805  and has access to at least one of a device wireless local area network  115  and a device wireless wide area network  120  shown in  FIG. 1 . The method further comprises: utilizing the valet mode application  807  to produce an image of a button  809  on touch screen display  805 ; associating one or more of the mobile routers  112  to wireless mobile device  801 ; providing each associated one or more the mobile routers  112  with a valet mode program  571 ; coupling a global positioning system (GPS) receiver  593  to mobile router  112  as shown in  FIG. 5 ; utilizing button  809  to activate and deactivate a valet mode such that when the valet mode is activated, mobile router  112  and the GPS receiver  593  cooperate to establish a predetermined radius  573  about the current location of the vehicle; and operating mobile router  112  in cooperation with the GPS receiver  593  to detect if predetermined radius  571  is exceeded. 
     The method further comprises operating mobile router  112  to establish a predetermined maximum speed  575 ; operating mobile router  112  to detect if the predetermined radius  573  or the predetermined maximum speed  575  is exceeded; and operating the mobile router to cause a notification to be sent to the wireless device upon the router detecting if the predetermined radius or the predetermined speed is exceeded. 
     It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that various changes and modifications may be made to the embodiments described herein without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. It is intended that the invention not be limited in any way by the embodiments shown and described herein, but that the invention be limited only by the claims appended hereto.