US010706461B2 (12) United States Patent ( 10 ) Patent No.: US 10,706,461 B2 Varma et al. (45 ) Date of Patent: Jul. 7 , 2020 (54 ) SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRAFFIC (52) U.S. CI. DECONGESTION CPC G06Q 30/08 ( 2013.01 ); G06Q 10/025 (2013.01); G06Q 20/145 (2013.01); G08G (71) Applicant: GREENLIGHTSTRADING LLC , 1/096708 (2013.01) Wilmington , DE (US) ( 58 ) Field of Classification Search None (72 ) Inventors: Samir Varma, Cos Cob , CT (US); See application file for complete search history . Daniel Sarfati, Raanana (IL ) (73) Assignee : GREENLIGHTSTRADING LLC , (56 ) References Cited Wilmington , DE (US ) U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS ( * ) Notice : Subject to any disclaimer, the term of this 2002/0184042 A1 12/2002 Hommrich et al . patent is extended or adjusted under 35 2003/0020634 A1 * 1/2003 Banerjee G07B 15/063 U.S.C. 154(b ) by 18 days. 340/928 2008/0091341 Al 4/2008 Panabaker et al . ( 21 ) Appl. No.: 15 /531,351 2008/0133425 A1 6/2008 Grush (Continued ) ( 22 ) PCT Filed : Nov. 25 , 2015 OTHER PUBLICATIONS ( 86 ) PCT No.: PCT/US2015 /062694 $ 371 ( c ) ( 1 ), International Search Report and Written Opinion dated Mar. 29 , (2 ) Date : May 26 , 2017 2016 , 8 pages . (87 ) PCT Pub . No .: WO2016 /086139 Primary Examiner — Mila Airapetian PCT Pub . Date : Jun . 2 , 2016 (74 ) Attorney, Agent, or Firm — Foster Garvey PC (65 ) Prior Publication Data (57) ABSTRACT US 2017/0358025 A1 Dec. 14 , 2017 A system and method for traffic decongestion which allows users to bid for faster passage and faster journeys. The Related U.S. Application Data system and method allows autonomous, semi-autonomous (60 ) Provisional application No. 62/ 084,885 , filed on Nov. or user -driven cars to bid for faster passage for their jour 26 , 2014. neys. Users willing to use slower journeys may be compen sated for their contribution in reducing traffic congestion . In (51) Int. Ci. addition to reduction of traffic congestion , the system and G06Q 30/00 ( 2012.01 ) method can normalize road usage,minimize road wear, give G06Q 30/08 ( 2012.01 ) municipalities a new revenue stream , and save users time GO6Q 10/02 ( 2012.01 ) currently wasted by traffic . G06Q 20/14 ( 2012.01) G08G 1/0967 ( 2006.01 ) 8 Claims, 7 Drawing Sheets 106 134 132 Communication Computer Logic : Device Offsite & Local -154 -152 104 132 Central Computer US 10,706,461 B2 Page 2 ( 56 ) References Cited U.S. PATENT DOCUMENTS 2009/0177383 Al 7/2009 Tertoolen 2011/0166958 A1 * 7/2011 Hamilton , II G06Q 10/047 705 / 26.25 2012/0023033 A1 * 1/2012 Tomasz GO6Q 10/06 705/345 * cited by examiner U.S. Patent Jul. 7 , 2020 Sheet 1 of 7 US 10,706,461 B2 106 134 132 Communication Computer Logic : Device Offsite & Local 154 LOO. 114 152 104 132 Central Computer Fig. 1 U.S. Patent Jul. 7 , 2020 Sheet 2 of 7 US 10,706,461 B2 See Fig . 1 Must communicate 126 from car to computer: Position Finish Speed Dynamic Billing Frequent updates 104 108 -132 Central Computer 132 104 In car GPS or Navigation system Start 124 -102 Fig . 2 U.S. Patent Jul. 7 , 2020 Sheet 3 of 7 US 10,706,461 B2 202 204 Device 106 communicates Car driver 102 enters origin and destination to destination on device Computer 108 through Device 134 or directly 152 206 208 Computer 108 verifies user Computer 108 elaborates identity request from user 102 and allocates route 150 . 210 212 Computer 108 answers Computer 108 acts on user 102 through device traffic controls according to the route 150 offered to 134 (or directly 152 ) user 102. Fig . 3 U.S. Patent Jul. 7 , 2020 Sheet 4 of 7 US 10,706,461 B2 116 Traffic Control Tools Traffic Lights Toll Lanes Bridges HOV Lanes 120 108 130 140 ???? ? Bidding M Map2 Central Central Billing Computing 124 ???. Unit Mapn 138 -114 122 E 1136 A 112 110 E, A2 A E Traffic PA En 151 Feedback System Fig . 4 U.S. Patent Jul. 7 , 2020 Sheet 5 of 7 US 10,706,461 B2 162 Bidding Authority 132 133 U1 U2 144 146 Route Route R1 R Bidding Exchange -160 Fig . 5 U.S. Patent Jul. 7 , 2020 Sheet 6 of 7 US 10,706,461 B2 162 Bidding Authority 133 132 U U2 U1 U Un 160 Route R1 Route Store Bidding R 164 Exchange R Ro Fig . 6 U.S. Patent Jul. 7 , 2020 Sheet 7 of 7 US 10,706,461 B2 162 Bidding 132 Authority 133 U1 U2 Route V 160 Route R1 R2 Bidding Exchange Fig . 7 US 10,706,461 B2 1 2 SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRAFFIC Embodiments of the invention may be described in the DECONGESTION general context of computer -executable instructions, such as program modules, being executed by a computer and/or by PRIORITY CLAIM computer-readable media on which such instructions or 5 modules can be stored . Generally , program modules include This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent routines, programs, objects , components , data structures, Application Ser. No.62/084,885 filed Nov. 26 , 2014 , which etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety as if fully abstract data types. The invention may also be practiced in set forth herein . distributed computing environments where tasks are per 10 formed remote processing devices that are linked through a FIELD OF THE INVENTION communications network . In a distributed computing envi ronment, program modules may be located in both local and The present invention relates to generally to travel and, remote computer storage media including memory storage more particularly, to a system and method for reducing 15 devices . congestion and improving the travel experience. Embodiments of the invention may include or be imple mented in a variety of computer readable media . Computer BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS readable media can be any available media that can be accessed by a computer and includes both volatile and Preferred and alternative examples of the present inven nonvolatile media , removable and non -removable media. By tion are described in detail below with reference to the 20 way of example, and not limitation , computer readable following drawings: media may comprise computer storage media and commu FIG . 1 is a system diagram illustrating a minimal imple nication media . Computer storage media include volatile mentation at a traffic light in accordance with a preferred and nonvolatile , removable and non -removable media embodiment of the present invention; implemented in any method or technology for storage of FIG . 2 is a system diagram illustrating implementation for 25 information such as computer readable instructions, data an entire journey in accordance with an embodiment of the structures, program modules or other data . Computer storage present invention ; media includes, but is not limited to , RAM , ROM , FIG . 3 is a flowchart illustrating functional steps of the EEPROM , flash memory or other memory technology, CD systems depicted in FIGS. 1 and 2 ; ROM , digital versatile disks (DVD ) or other optical disk FIG . 4 is a flow chart illustrating certain functional 30 storage , magnetic cassettes,magnetic tape, magnetic disk aspects of a Central Computing Unit C in accordance with storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other an embodiment of the present invention ; medium which can be used to store the desired information FIG . 5 is a flow diagram depicting one way in which a and which can accessed by computer. Communication user may exchange a route with another user in according to media typically embodies computer readable instructions, an embodiment of the present invention ; 35 data structures, program modules or other data in a modu FIG . 6 is a flow diagram depicting one way in which a lated data signal such as carrier wave or other transport bidding authority may buy back a route from a seller mechanism and includes any information delivery media . according to an embodiment of the present invention ; and , The term “modulated data signal” means a signal that has FIG . 7 is a flow diagram depicting one way in which a one or more of its characteristics set or changed in such a bidding authority may buy back a route from a seller 40 manner as to encode information in the signal. By way of according to an embodiment of the present invention . example , and not limitation , communication media includes wired media such as a wired network or direct-wired con DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE nection , and wireless media such as acoustic , RF , infrared PREFERRED EMBODIMENT and other wireless media. Combinations of the any of the 45 above should also be included within the scope of computer This patent application describes one or more embodi readable media . ments of the present invention . It is to be understood that the According to one or more embodiments, the combination use of absolute terms, such as “ must," " will," and the like , of software or computer- executable instructions with a com as well as specific quantities, is to be construed as being puter -readable medium results in the creation of a machine applicable to one or more of such embodiments, but not 50 or apparatus. Similarly , the execution of software or com necessarily to all such embodiments. As such , embodiments puter- executable instructions by a processing device results of the invention may omit, or include a modification of, one in the creation of a machine or apparatus, which may be or more features or functionalities described in the context distinguishable from the processing device , itself, according of such absolute terms. to an embodiment. Embodiments of the invention may be operational with 55 Correspondingly, it is to be understood that a computer numerous general purpose or special purpose computing readable medium is transformed by storing software or system environments or configurations. Examples of well computer-executable instructions thereon . Likewise, a pro known computing systems, environments, and /or configu cessing device is transformed in the course of executing rations that may be suitable for use with the invention software or computer -executable instructions. Additionally, include, but are not limited to , personal computers , server 60 it is to be understood that a first set of data input to a computers, hand-held or laptop devices, multiprocessor sys processing device during, or otherwise in association with , tems, microprocessor-based systems, set top boxes, pro the execution of software or computer -executable instruc grammable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicom tions by the processing device is transformed into a second puters, mainframe computers, smart watches or other set of data as a consequence of such execution . This second wearable computing devices, distributed computing envi- 65 data setmay subsequently be stored , displayed , or otherwise ronments that include any of the above systems or devices , communicated . Such transformation , alluded to in each of and the like . the above examples , may be a consequence of, or otherwise US 10,706,461 B2 3 4 involve, the physical alteration of portions of a computer bidding system through published APIs. Car users chose readable medium . Such transformation , alluded to in each of bidding preferences through an ad -hoc App , management the above examples , may also be a consequence of, or tools, through settings and contract preferences . The bidding otherwise involve, the physical alteration of, for example, system automatically supplies self -driving cars with routes the states of registers and / or counters associated with a 5 to best-fit said settings and preferences. processing device during execution of software or computer Users of the system can influence and change the traffic executable instructions by the processing device . patterns to their advantage : by bidding on routes users can As used herein , a process that is performed “ automati decrease their transit time. Users who are less sensitive to cally” may mean that the process is performed as a result of short transit times receive compensation or credit for choos machine -executed instructions and does not, other than the 10 ing less desired routes. Superplayers, such as ambulances , establishment of user preferences, require manual effort. fire trucks, police cars , military / government personnel In accordance with preferred embodiment of the present (PresidentialMotorcades, for example ), funeral processions , invention , a system and method allows users to bid for faster and the like, can always be given the fastest route, especially passage , faster journeys , and faster traffic lights. The system while in emergency travel mode . and method of the present invention allow autonomous , 15 The provider of the service produces revenues from the semi-autonomous or user-driven cars, with an appropriate bids. Municipalities and road owners/administrators receive application installed , to bid for faster passage for their part of the revenues from the bids . Municipalities and road journeys. Additionally , users willing to use slower journeys owners/administrators disperse traffic over multiple routes can be compensated for their contribution in reducing traffic thus increasing the rate of utilization of all existing roads congestion . In addition to reduction of traffic congestion , 20 while at the same time reducing the utilization for more this invention can even out road usage, minimize road wear, desired routes. The end result is to reduce the need to build give municipalities a new revenue stream , and save users and expand roads thus postponing investment in expansion , time currently wasted by traffic . new roads and maintenance . The system and method rationalizes traffic rights accord Advertisers or other third -party players such as establish ing to an economic principle. Rights to travel are allocated 25 ments with drive -thru services also benefit from the system via bidding , instead of the current system where traffic and method of the present invention : for example, those that priority is decided a priori by traffic technicians with rare want to influence traffic patterns to increase visits at their changes due to real traffic dynamics. Or, in other words, the location can do so by bidding , and /or by providing coupons system provides traffic rights to whoever is willing to pay the and /or vouchers. Advertisers or other third party players most for them . 30 such as establishments with drive -thru services can manage Navigation systems, applications, and communication the number of active personnel and their supply chain by devices within vehicles are interconnected with traffic sig knowing the number of vehicles expected to drive by their nals, road sensors and other road condition monitors, to location . Rational road planning data will exist for the first allow them all to communicate with each other and to a time which shows actual user preferences . Rational city , Central Computing Unit (also referred to herein as " central 35 town, and commute planning data will exist for the first time. computer” ) to create real-time bidding for the fastest (at a Rationalbuilding data will exist for the first time for all sorts cost) and /or slower journey ( at a lower or even negative of purposes and for all kinds of users : where to build , how cost= receive payment). to zone, what to zone for, how to route traffic for those Navigation systems provide users with information about buildings and /or building activity , how to reroute traffic current traffic conditions and suggests optimal routes to 40 temporarily and permanently, etc. Roads where light traffic achieve either minimal transit time or minimal cost (by way is needed for any municipal purpose need not be closed : of example , by avoiding tolls ). In accordance with the their price can simply be raised . As a result , the traffic can present invention , users are not passive receivers of traffic be as light as needed but no closing is necessary and so information anymore and can influence and change the inconvenience is minimized . Overall taxation rates could be traffic patterns by bidding to achieve minimal transit timeor 45 lower due to the revenue collected from the routes and the cost or any desired combination thereof. The system and reduced maintenance cost. New routes could be priced method may act directly and in real time on active traffic higher to pay for their building. management tools such as traffic lights, lane restrictions, toll According to a preferred embodiment of the present booths, ferry timetables, railway crossings , etc. as well as invention , and with reference to FIGS. 1-7 , in a system and consider , in real time, existing road conditions, lane open- 50 method for traffic decongestion 100 , a user 102 identifies a ings and closures, road work and known traffic. Based on the journey 104 that (s)he wishes to take and the conditions/ inputs by bidders and /or superplayers the proposed system constraints under which (s )he is to undertake the journey , if acts on the active traffic management tools to change esti any (see , for example FIG . 4 ). By way of example, the user mated transit time(s ) to accommodate the will of the highest 102 is willing to pay up to $ X for the fastest route , or is bidder (s ). 55 willing to be paid $ Y to go by a less congested route . The In addition, the system and method of the present inven user uses a communication device 106 , such as, but not tion offers monetary compensation /credit to lower bidders or limited to : a computer, mobile phone, tablet computer, a to takers willing to reroute through less desired routes thus dedicated computer, a smart watch or other wearable com freeing more desired routes to the benefit of the higher puter, and /or kiosk , to communicate his desires to a Central bidders . Superplayers , such as emergency vehicles and /or 60 Computing Unit 108 (FIG . 2). Other users (A1- An )may also law enforcement in emergency travel, can outbid (with or communicate their interests and constraints 114 , if any, to without payment, as desired by the relevant authorities ) any the Central Computing Unit 108. The Central Computing bidder and can be granted fastest driving times to their Unit 108 is typically programmed with conditions/con destination. Traffic data generated by the system is used to straints that the municipality (ies ) or owner (s ) of the routes optimize the traffic conditions, to maximize the revenues 65 have imposed (see, in general, FIG . 4 ). These could be, for from bids, to optimize the system algorithms and to satisfy example , that emergency users (E , -En) police vehicles have the interests of third parties. Self -driving cars connect to the absolute right of way and don't have to pay , or that ambu US 10,706,461 B2 5 6 lances and fire trucks are to be given all green lights , etc. These ‘routes' could be entire journeys (FIG . 2 ), or could Subject to the constraints of the various users and munici be as little as the right to “ transit a traffic light in a prioritized palities/owners , the computer 108 preferably calculates, for fashion (FIG . 1 ). There is also no necessity to buy “priori example , prices to collect from , or payments to be made to , tization ' for the entire journey — a user may specify that he the various users 112 , and also notifies and /or controls any 5 wanted ' prioritization ' only through certain traffic lights or sensors/ traffic lights /railroad crossings/other signals /barge on certain roads . operators/ ferry operators/bridge operators /train operators/ FIG . 4 depicts information and activity flow associated etc. ( traffic control tools) 116 along theway about what their with Central Computing Unit 108 in accordance with an actions are to be when any specific user is in transit. embodiment of the present invention . Central Computing The user 102 takes the journey and various transponders 10 Unit 108 communicates with users A7- A , 112 in order to and sensors in the car and roadway track the user's travel. receive route requests and send allocated routes, represented This information is then communicated back 114 to the by arrows 114 , 124 respectively. Central Computing Unit computer 108 , which then verifies the journey and debits or 108 communicates with emergency users E , -E , 110 in order credits the user's account 120 via billing server 122. Along to receive route requests 136 and send 138 allocated routes the way, the computer may also offer 124 to reroute the user 15 150. Central Computing Unit 108 communicates ( shown if (s )he is willing to pay more for a faster route , or pay less generally at arrows 120 ) with billing servers 122 in order to (or even receive a payment) for a slower route . Similarly , the identify users 112 , verify credit and receive clearance to computer could offer 124 the user a payment to pull off the allocate routes 150. Central Computing Unit 08 also road at a specified spot for a specified time (to reduce receives map information from map server 140 via arrows congestion ). 20 142. Central Computing Unit 108 further communicates Turning to FIGS . 5-7 , the Central Computing Unit 108 with traffic control tools 116 in order to act on traffic control may also keep a track of the routes that have been bought by 116 tools to prioritize allocated routes 150 and receive any given user to facilitate trade between users: users would information about status of roads and key points on routes, be able to buy and sell their routes, or portions thereof, to as depicted by arrows 144. each other. The computer may also allow market makers 25 A Traffic Feedback System 148 ( FIG . 4 ) informs the (pejoratively , “ speculators ” , who had no intention of actu Central Computing Unit about traffic conditions on each ally using what they bought) to buy and sell routes as well: road , intersection , level crossing, ferry, drawbridge , tunnel, this would facilitate liquidity , and the creation of a proper bridge, or other means of travel which is part of the system two - sided market in travel routes . (shown as communication arrows 151 ). The Traffic Feed In accordance with a preferred embodiment, and with 30 back System 148 is operated through a series of sensors , reference to FIG . 2 , a user 102 requests a route from Start cameras, control systems, and other relevant information 124 to Finish 126 across multiple crossroads, intersections, gathering devices ( for example, but not limited to : weather ds, traffic lights , bridges etc. 128 and bids for right forecasts, weather ba ons , algorithmic inputs, feedback transit that route with the fastest time. The request is from vehicles, feedback from users , news reports, official processed by the Central Computing Unit 108 that needs to 35 vehicles, radar units , etc.) to provide the Central Computing take into consideration other similar or conflicting requests Unit with detailed information about actual traffic , average , from other vehicles as well as road conditions, known and minimum and maximum transit speed on each section of the actual traffic , weather and any other factor influencing said roads and is able to uniquely identify individual vehicles on route . The Central Computing Unit allocates a route to user the roads (via any means necessary, including but not limited 102 according to the result of the bidding process and acts 40 to : sensors, transponders, mobile units attached to the on Traffic Control Tools 116 represented in FIG . 2 as traffic vehicle , cameras, radar, eyewitness reports , etc. ). The Cen lights ) to allow user 102 to drive his/her route according to tral Computing Unit receives feedback from the Traffic the terms of the bidding results. Feedback System about the actual route taken by each A detail of a portion of the route described above and paying user ( A ] ... An ) 112 or emergency user (Ej ... En illustrated in FIG . 2 is shown in FIG . 1. User 102 has outbid 45 110 to confirm the allocated or purchased route was travelled a different user and has priority ( right of way ) through an according to the estimates and the allocation or purchase . intersection controlled by a traffic light. Feedback information is used to stop and fine “ Freeloaders” , The Central Computer Unit 108 need not be a single bill users, and inform other panics (such as the local authori computer — it could be several, and it need not all be under ties, advertisers, security and emergency teams) about actual the control of one party . For example , the computer that 50 traffic conditions, prices , future prices, anticipated prices, controlled the notifications need not be the same as the etc., at all times and as necessary. Data from the Traffic computer that tracked which user(s) owned which routes, as Feedback System 148 is also used to refine algorithms and long as those computers were all able to talk to each other. future route allocations, sales and auctions. In accordance In the stock market, for example, the computers that ‘ clear ’ with yet further aspects and embodiments of the present trades are not the same as those that actually ‘make ’ the 55 invention , “ freeloaders ” who use the system without autho trades, and are not owned or controlled by the same entity . rization , who travel on routes that they were not entitled to , That said , the Central Computing Unit 108 according to a or use a faster route when they paid for a slower one , or who preferred embodiment may, for example , be one or more otherwise abuse the systems would be fined or otherwise computing devices in a central or decentralized configura sanctioned by the relevant authority. tion . 60 As illustrated in FIGS. 5-7 , users may bid on individual As illustrated in FIG . 2 , a route includes the right to routes R ,-Rn, or packages of routes, etc. Users U , -Un may proceed from point A to point B , for example from a starting bid manually , or instruct a computing device , such as a point ( start) to and end point ( finish ) 126 , using a certain bidding computer 130 , which may form part of Central collection of roads/highways/bridges /barges/ ferries /tolls/ Computing Unit 108 to bid for them , subject to whatever etc. 128 , which is valid for a specific period of time. It would 65 constraints they wish . Their bids may be controlled by their be best if such a tight is fungible and could be bought or sold own device 106 , in which case their device would preferably freely but this is not essential . be in constant or occasional/frequent contact with the bid US 10,706,461 B2 7 8 receiving computer 130 to receive updates and send back In yet further embodiments of the invention , riders (U1 their own updated bids and asks . Or, they could tell the Un ) 112 , 102 of trains and ferries could bid on and receive bid -receiving computer 130 what their constraints were and priority travel as well. what their request was, and ask the hid - receiving computer 5 bidPedestrians . and bicycle riders (U1-Un ) 112 , 102 can also 130 to bid ( if they were route buyers ) or offer ( if they were route sellers ) on their behalf. Public transportation and school buses (U1-Un ) 112 , 102 FIG . 5 illustrates one embodiment of the present inven could also optionally have the right of way . tion in which an owner (U1) 132 of a route (R1) 144 earn sell UnBids can be stacked . For example both occupants (U1 it to another person (U2) 133 ( in a way similar to the sale of 10 HOV ,(High ) 112 102 in a car could bid . That way they pay more . Occupancy Vehicles ) (U1-Un ) 112 , 102 could publically traded stock ). For purposes of example and ease also receive payment to encourage more HOVs. of understanding , Route 1 144 is sold by User 1 to 132 User Refunds may be available. 2 133 through bidding exchange 160 in communication with bidding authority 162 and is then designated Route 2 (R2) (U1Preferable , purchases can be made while the traveler -Un ) 112 , 102 is en route . 146. Upon the sale, at least the owner's name changes. By 15 Journeys 104 driven can be verified via GPS coordinate way of example , imagine that Person A has routes that (s)he updates 118 from the vehicle . wants to sell. (S )he either doesn't need them , or bought them The journey 104 is verified as driven by the location because (s )he thought they would go up in value. (S )he reported by the GPS or navigation system 118 in the vehicle wants to sell them . Person B wants to buy those routes. For (user ) (U1-Un ) 112, 102. this transaction to occur, you need an “ exchange ” where 20 Tracking could be via GPS and or other wireless location Person A can offer, and Person B can bid . reporting device, transponder, satellite 106 , 108, 134 . FIG . 6 illustrates a further embodiment of the present The journey 104 may be considered property thatmay be invention in which the bidding authority 162 can simply buy purchased and / or resold . the route back from a seller. In this example , a user (U1) 132 When a journey is originally sold by the journey selling wants to sell, but there is no one at the present time that 25 authority , it is preferably assigned a unique identifier so that wants to buy. The bidding authority 162 steps in , puts its this journey could be sold onwards (resold ) by the buyer. own capital at risk by acting as a market maker (bidding In one embodiment of the invention , by way of example , exchange ) 160 , and acts as a buyer toe user 132 , and holds a user purchases a ‘ fast journey from Darien , Conn . to New that route in route store 164 for future resale to another user York City for US$ 10.00 the nightbefore his departure . In the 133 . 30 morning , he checks the system before departing , and learns FIG . 7 illustrates yet a further embodiment of the present the price for this journey has now risen to $ 20 (because now invention in which the bidding authority steps in front of many users also want to travel the same journey ). This user every buy and every sell ( similar to a futures exchange ). If now has the option to sell his journey for $ 20 to another user user (U1) 132 wants to sell and user (U2 ) 133 wants to buy, and choose another journey from the authority ( if , say , he the bidding authority 162 can simultaneously buy from U1 35 wanted to go slower, and , in the process, make US$ 10 ). 132 and sell to U2 133 via bidding exchange 160. Each journey sale has a unique identifier, and it allows that By way of further examples, embodiments of the present holder of that unique identifier to drive a vehicle on that invention include, but are not limited to any of the following journey. combinations: In accordance with one embodiment of the invention , by Traffic signal 132 +road sensors 134 + navigation device in 40 way of example , a user purchases a “ fast ” journey across a car 118 + Central Computing Unit 108 ; bridge, or a “ fast ” journey on a ferry ( e.g .: the ferry could be Traffic signal 132 + road sensors 134 +cell phone or other faster, or certain vehicles could be stacked to be offloaded general purpose mobile computing device for bidding 106+ first, etc.) or a “ fast” journey across an intersection or traffic Central Computing Unit 108 ; light ( for example , the light could be changed for all traffic Traffic signal 132 + road sensors 134 +web application + 45 as the buyer's vehicle approaches the intersection to allow Central Computing Unit 108 ; him through and/or there could be special lanes routed Traffic signal 132 + Central Computing Unit 108 + tran through the intersection such that the buyer doesn't have to sponder in car 118; wait ) or as “ slower” journey across a bridge in exchange for Road sensors 134 + Central Computing Unit 108 + tran a discount and/or a payment. sponder in car 118 ; 50 Each journey has been turned into property by means of Traffic signal 132 + transponder in car 118 + computer in the identifier . A journey means a specific identified owner traffic signal located locally 134 ; having the right, over some specified time, to go from Place Road sensor 134 +transponder in car 118 + computer in A 124 to Place B 126 . traffic signal 132 ; and /or As best illustrated in FIGS. 5-7 , this journey 104 could Road sensor 118 +web application +mobile application on 55 consist of many sub-journeys which could also be bought or mobile device 106 carried in the car. sold . These re-sellings and re -buyings could occur dynami Cars could be autonomous so an entire journey 104 could cally with or without user input. be sold to or bought from it . Refunds may be provided for journeys not completed due , Self-driven cars could also buy and sell journeys 104 via for example , to an “ act of god or agency or othermeans” or a website or application , which then also can give them 60 diverted , etc. This preferably would be at the discretion of driving directions to follow ( so they could stick to the the selling authority . journey 104 ). In yet another embodiment of the invention , and as Police and emergency vehicles E ,-E , 110 could receive illustrated in FIG . 7, the system 100 may include a market priority to enable essential services to get to their destination for buying and selling journeys 104 to and from users quicker. 65 (A1- An , U1-Un ) 112 , 102 and to and from the central Governmental motorcades, funerals, and the like could authority 108 , 130 , all of whom can work in conjunction also purchase priority travel journeys . with insurance companies tracking drivers via a device 106 , US 10,706,461 B2 9 10 118 in the car to give users good driving discounts. The either directly 152 or through communication 154 via a local ability to buy and sell journeys is not dependent upon the device , such as sensors 134. The Central Computing Unit ability to control traffic lights nor limited to such applica 108 verifies the identity of user and elaborates the route tions . request as well as bidding terms. The computer 108 then In one embodiment, the system can verify the journey 1045 allocates the route to user. The Central Computing Unit a user has driven , while a central authority 108 controls the answers the user contacting Device 106 either directly 152 traffic lights 132. They could just send the user driving directions and verify that the directions are followed . In the or through communication 154 via local device 134. Central Computing Unit 108 may act on traffic control tools 116 alternative the traffic lights 132 can be controlled by the (FIG . 4 ) according to the route allocated to user 102 . seller (A1- An , U1-Un ) 112 , 102 of the journey 104 . 10 As further illustrated in FIG . 3 , a method 200 for decon Users can bid for a destination , and the computer 108 , 130 structing would give the user a price corresponding to an expected provided . traffic At step to improve a user's travel experience is 202, user 102, who may be a car driver or time for getting there . Users would be tracked to verify they an autonomous vehicle followed that journey 104. Times could optionally be guar At step 204 , device ,106enterscommunicates a destination on device 106 . the origin and anteed , with refunds/credits/ compensation in case the time 15 destination information to computer 108 through device (s ) was not achieved . Deviations from the journeys could be optionally excused 134 or directly 152. At step 206 , computer 108 verifies the ( including, but not limited to , roadwork , accidents, police identity of the user. At step 208 , computer 108 elaborates the directions, ambulances, closures, and the like). request from user 102 and allocates route 150. At step 210 , In accordance with further embodiments of the present 20 computer 108 answers user 102 through device 134 or invention , additional features may include , but are not directly 152. At step 212 , computer 108 acts on traffic limited to : controls 116 according to the route 150 offered to user 102 . Packages can be bundled for commuters with discounts , In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments for example, on peak /off peak travel bundles . of the present invention , there would be at least one The system can dynamically update journey options while 25 “ reporter ” in each vehicle , where the reporter reports infor the user is en route subject to the user's pre -programmed mation back to the relevant authority such as the position preference and speed of the vehicle but could and probably will report Sub journeys could be bought or sold so each part of the much more such as currentweather conditions, the vehicle's journey could have a dynamic price , and users could buy /sell identity information , the owner's identity information , the as they travel. 30 driver's identity information , the insurers identity informa Users could sell their time to the system . By way of tion , the vehicle's fault information , credit card and /or example , if there is congestion , the system 100 may ask for account information , which lane it is currently driving in , volunteers to pull off the road at a designated spot for a etc. specific period of time in exchange for compensation . This In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments could be funded by charging a premium to those that don't 35 of the present invention , there would be at leastone “bidder” want to pull over. The system can take collective bids from for each user and /or vehicle, where the bidder could be people wanting to go faster , and sell those to those that want permanently attached to the vehicle , embedded in the vehi to go slower. cle's electronics, on a mobile device whether in the vehicle The system 100 may also select who to offer payments to or not, a desktop device whether in the vehicle or not, or any so as to avoid “ free riders ” . For example , perhaps only those 40 other device or application , whether mobile , desktop , web or people that have been driving for a set amount of time and other that is capable of submitting bids and responding to for a minimum distance would be offered payments to pull offers . over . In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments Bidding may be for entire journeys, partial journeys, or of the present invention , there would be at least one (if more even just one or more traffic lights. For example , at a single 45 than one then each communicating with at least one other ) traffic light, a user would bid ( subject to maximum ) for the bid receiving systems that would receive and act upon bids light to turn green . Single users at a local level (FIG . 1) can and offers to buy and sell routes, intersection priorities, obtain a right of way at a specific intersection controlled by requests for priority usage , requests for specific lane usage , a traffic light by clicking on an ad -hoc smartphone app , a requests for free or reduced cost usage, requests for official button on a specific device or similar and accepting a pre - set 50 or emergency usage , etc. charge. Communication can happen locally between the In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments traffic light and user, and /or can be at the system level with of the present invention , there would be a sensor network the Central Computing Unit . that may be embedded in the roadway, guardrails, overhead The further back a user is in the queue , the more they lights, or other fixed structure , or overhead on satellites, would have to bid because everyone in line before them 55 balloons , drones or other mobile structures. This sensor would go first, and would therefore proceed without charge network will most likely be in addition to the vehicle to them . However, the user could be compensated from this reporters, but can also be “ in lieu ” if the sensors are bid with , for example , a discounted rate on the bid , or on equipped with a means of determining the identity of the future journeys, and the like. The traffic authority /munici vehicle . pality may also take part of this revenue . 60 In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments In accordance with yet another embodiment of the present of the present invention , the sensors mentioned above could invention and illustrated in FIG . 3, a method for deconges be " state sensing” . The sensors would report back on the tion traffic is provided . When a user 102 wants to start a new state of the object or objects they are monitoring. For route 150 the user will contact the Central Computing Unit example , a traffic light type of intersection control system 108 to request a route . Connection is done using commu- 65 would report back on the current state of the traffic light: red , nication device 106A (which , for example, may be a smart yellow or green . A drawbridge would have a sensor report phone , a car mounted device , etc. as previously described ), ing back on the state of the drawbridge: open , closed or in US 10,706,461 B2 11 12 motion ; a train level crossing would have an indication of Conduct (all types of) auctions of routes /journeys ; Conduct whether the gate is open or closed , or closing, or opening. (all types of) auctions of intersection priorities; Collect data In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments submitted to it via API or other means; Send out results of of the present invention , the objects being sensed may have bidding and /or sales of routes; Allow bidding on one or more control systems: traffic lights, drawbridges, level crossings , 5 critical pieces of the route such as an intersection ; Allow even road surfaces (for example , if the road included wire bidding on pieces or whole of a route or routes ; Allow and less electric charging through wires embedded under its facilitate owners of routes/intersection priorities to resell to surface , the charging could be controlled and charged for by the relevant authority ) etc., would be controlled by the other users . In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments bidding state current authority , andwith the the sensorssystemreporting control back onwould or systems their 10 of the present invention, the bidding authority or other change their state as desired by the bidding authority . relevant entity would be able to facilitate an orderly market In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments by acting as a market maker when needed by buying from of the present invention , additional information systems sellers or selling to buyers to maintain an orderly market; facilitate an orderly market by allowing third parties to act could send their information to the relevant authority for 15 incorporation into the relevant algorithms as needed . For as market makers with special privileges and necessary example , this may include information from radar, lidar, regulations, facilitate an orderly market by allowing and weather balloons, weather forecasts , current temperature , encouraging third parties to act as liquidity providers by lighting conditions, roadway conditions, automobile condi enabling third parties to buy and sell routes ; and /or facilitate tion , etc. 20 an orderly market by acting as a “ central bank ” by creating In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments and removing routes from the system in response to supply , of the present invention , there could be specialized lanes for demand, public policy, and the like . different types of vehicles. For example, there could be In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments different lanes for participating vehicles versus non -partici of the present invention , the bidding authority or other pating vehicles , and /or autonomous and non -autonomous 25 relevant entity would be able to allow bids in any currency vehicles . There could also be a variety of lanes of different or credits that the bidding authority chooses; and /or allow types such as fixed price lanes, variable priced lanes, lanes automatic bidding , such as , for example, don't exceed a with fixed pricing at certain times and variable at other certain amount ofmoney but otherwise get best route as well times, lanes with variable pricing that is continuously vary as create and allow other types of automatic bids desired by ing, lanes with variable pricing that is discontinuously 30 user. varying, etc. In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments of the present invention , the bidding authority or other of the present invention , the relevant authority and /or rel relevant entity would be able to give priority to emergency evant computers could expose an API for submitting and and other official vehicles , if on official business and by reacting to bids, an API for dissemination of information , an 35 request/policy ; share revenue with the municipality and or API for the collection of information, etc. other authorities, owners and stakeholders (for example, In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments people suffering from noise from a new or expanded high of the present invention, there would be at least one author way, or even from simply new or existing traffic patterns ity to collate the bidding and set up the auction ( s). The could be paid something for the noise and congestion and auctions could be continuous (like the stock market during 40 inconvenience ); share revenue with those people that are it's normal trading hours ) or fixed moment (such as the open willing to go by a slower route either in cash or in credits; and close of a stock market, where all orders are submitted and/or sell monthly /yearly /other discounted passes for bulk far in advance and simply matched off one versus the other ). trips whether unlimited or a fixed number of trips. The There could be other types of auctions too such as : sealed passes could be separable (unused days, trips, periods, etc. bid , second price, minimum bid reserve price, ascending 45 could be sold ) or non -separable (unused days, trips, periods price ( English ), descending price (Dutch ), all-pay, bidding etc. expire ); and /or transferable or nontransferable and all fee , buyout, combinatorial, generalized second price, Japa could have different prices. nese , Lloyd's syndicate, Mystery auction , reverse auction , In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments senior auction , silent auction , top - up auction , Walrasian of the present invention , the bidding authority or other auction , Simultaneous Ascending Auction , Anglo - Dutch 50 relevant entity would be able to conduct separate auctions Auction , Private Value auction , Common Value auction , etc. and maintain separate markets for different buyers (com In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments mercial, industrial, etc.); conduct separate auctions or main of the present invention , the various entities that make up the tain separate markets for different types of vehicles ( trucks, present invention would communicate between and within buses, cars,motorcycles ); and/or sell collected traffic data to themselves via any available means: the internet, Wi-Fi, 55 interested parties . Such data could answer may currently cellular data , Bluetooth , radio , laser, lidar , radar , optical unanswerable questions or conduct activities such as, for fiber, optical communications, electrical or electronic sig example , help you locate your coffee shop ; what routes nals , quantum computing and signaling, etc. should a delivery company bid for and how much should it In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments bid to facilitate fastest/cheapest/etc . delivery at certain of the present invention , the bidding authority or other 60 times ?; what types of vehicles are the heaviest users at what relevant entity would be able to perform any, some,most or times ?; do criminals bid differently than non -criminals ?; all of: Set the prices of routes and conduct sales; Set the conduct games based on the collected information , in which prices of intersection priorities and conduct sales ; Project such games could be conducted , with or without prizes ; future route costs based on the information gathered such as : guess the traffic over a given time period in a given region ; historical traffic information on those roadways, the current 65 how many cars entered 1-5 in the last hour, and what will the weather,the projected weather, the occurrence ofany special effect be on traffic if we construct a new bridge at location traffic events such as sports or holidays (similar to a bookie ); X instead of location Y ? US 10,706,461 B2 13 14 In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments systems” of which one embodiment would be a traffic light. of the present invention , the bidding authority or other Other embodiments could include autonomous vehicles with relevant entity would be able to correlate collected data with sensors, where the autonomous vehicles would each report external data for further value such as, for example , identify their positions to other autonomous vehicles in their vicinity which zip codes bid the most; produce insights never yet 5 and /or the relevant central authority, and each vehicles obtained , such as, for example, where should you locate a would negotiate its priority to cross the intersection with the hospital for fastest transit times to it ?; allow external users central authority and /or the other vehicles approaching the to bid to make certain routes cheaper, such as , for example , intersection . if a store has a drive through , but the traffic is one street over, In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments that store can bid to make travel on its road cheaper: 10 of the present invention the congestion control would occur everyone on that road benefits as does the store ; and sell the via bidding on routes : the relevant authority would be collected real -world market research data . buying something akin to an airline ticket: the right to use In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments some set of roadways/bridges/ ferries/ tunnels/ etc . for a lim of the present invention the bidding authority would conduct ited time and over a certain route or routes . the auction and /or sale . The data from all the sensors , 15 In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments bidders , offerers , cars , balloons, satellites, etc. would be of the present invention only a part of the route may have the relayed to the bidding authority . This data could be relayed system implemented and /or only part of the route may be continuously , periodically, at specific times or time intervals, charged for, monitored and controlled by the relevant or as otherwise required or needed by the bidding authority . authority . The entire route doesn't have to be . For example , The data could be cached by each device, bidder , market 20 the present invention could be implemented only on certain participant, etc., if a connection wasn't available for imme major roads and highways. Exemptions could be made diate transmission, or for any other purpose such as keeping available to residents /businesses, etc., as needed . a record of activity . The bidding authority would also store In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments incoming data for as long as deemed commercially viable or of the present invention the system will expose an API for necessary. The bidding authority would take all this data and 25 navigation and other routing systems to hook into so that use it to auction and/or sell the routes, continuously, peri other software and hardware providers can hook into the odically, or at specific times, with prices set via auction , present invention as needed : for example a navigation algorithm , fiat,policy, or otherwise . A full or partial depth of application could also bid on behalf of its user. book could optionally be communicated by the bidding In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments authority should it so choose : such a depth of book would 30 of the present invention the system integrates all types of minimally show outstanding bids, offers, and sizes but could sensors : ground -based , satellite -based , roadway based , show more at the option of the bidding authority . guardrail based , traffic lights etc., as well as any other The results of these ons, sales, bids and of would relevant data from any source. The sensors relay current be communicated back to the bidders, offerers, speculators, congestion and other driving conditions (weather, for market makers and other market participants . In this way a 35 example) to the car, routing app , Central Computing Unit constantly functioning two-way market would be created etc., for the purpose of calculating prices for the routes/ with buyers and sellers for all routes/ intersection priorities, priorities /lanes /etc., or auctioning the routes/priorities/lanes / with prices set by whichevermechanism produces the result etc. or any other related or useful purpose . desired by the municipal authorities /owners of the rights of In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments way along the routes. The resulting revenue could be shared 40 of the present invention the system the bidding authority can with affected parties and /or anyone else that the municipal share aggregated real- time and historical information with authorities/owners of the rights of way deem fit, just and its users as well as show possible future traffic or other necessary at whatever rate or rate (s) or sharing mechanism patterns or data to bid on so that users are able to bid they see fit to institute . intelligently for their routes . The bidding authority could also adjust its processes to 45 In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments maximize whatever social value or combination of values it of the present invention the system the bidding authority can saw fit. Some examples of these would bemaximization of conduct sales or auction in real time or in advance , option revenue (a la airline revenue maximization algorithms), ally with a discount/premium for buying in advance. Routes minimization of inconvenience to travelers,minimization of could also be sold “ blind ” at a discount for speculators (this time to travelers, minimization of noise , reduction of con- 50 would jumpstart liquidity ) similar to the heavily discounted gestion at certain places at certain times, speed of access to airline fares that allow you to fly somewhere really cheap , as certain critical buildings ( e.g., hospitals ) or locations ( e.g., long as you don't much care where that somewhere is . fires, mudslides , natural disasters , etc. ), or any other func In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments tion that the bidding authority saw fit or was asked to of the present invention the system the bidding authority can implement by the relevant authorities. If the bidding author- 55 make available aggregated traffic to bidders that are not ity was asked to simultaneously meet many different objec drivers, e.g., advertisers for location based ads such as tives ( e.g., some combination of those listed above), then it drive -thru vendors , gas stations or additional services or would have to engage in tradeoffs: all the data collected shops where drivers may decide to stop . Such advertisers would allow it to make those tradeoffs in the most practical may be allowed to bid in order to reroute part of the traffic and efficient possible manner, and if the resulting tradeoff 60 through were not politically acceptable or expedient, it would be able the proximities of their establishments. Additionally, the anticipated or current or future revenue to demonstrate different tradeoffs and their likely costs to could be securitized and sold . Securitized revenue itself allow its political masters to pick a politically expedient could be used for all sorts of purposes including acquiring solution that was possibly still economically viable . rights of way, eminent domain , etc. Anticipated securitized In accordance with yet further aspects and embodiments 65 revenue could be used for construction costs, land acquisi of the present invention the system would controlmore than tion , compensation to current owners, etc. Self -driving cars just traffic lights , it would implement “ intersection control connect smoothly into the system and benefit automatically US 10,706,461 B2 15 16 from the advantages of the system either by enjoying shorter right to prioritize can be applied to the entire journey, driving times or by accumulating credits that can be used to or only a portion of the journey . the passenger benefit or to offset the driving cars costs . There 7. A method for advanced travel, comprising the steps of: would be many fewer accidents and thus many fewer deaths . entering a destination on a communication device ; Emergency vehicles could navigate through traffic faster. 5 receiving location information and destination informa There would be fewer incidents of road rage . There would tion from the communication device ; a great gain in available time that would be freed up from verifying the location and destination information and sitting in traffic . vehicle information ; While the preferred embodiment of the invention has been identifying at least a route based on the location and illustrated and described , as noted above ,many changes can 10 destination information , wherein the at least a route is be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the selected from the group including a fastest route, a invention . Accordingly, the scope of the invention is not congested route , and a less congested route ; limited by the disclosure of the preferred embodiment. placing a bid by the user for one of the at least route , Instead , the invention should be determined entirely by wherein bid value for the fastest route and the con reference to the claim (s ) that follow . 15 gested route is higher than bid value for the less The embodiments of the invention in which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined as follows: congested route ; and 1. A system for advanced travel, comprising : allocating either of the fastest route or the congested route a communication device for providing a bid for a desired to the user based on the bid , vehicle information , and ticket for a travel route , wherein the ticket comprises a 20 traffic - related intelligence, or awarding a compensation right to travel on the travel route for a limited time, and to the user for bidding the less congested route , wherein the travel route comprises a specified set and wherein the traffic - related intelligence further comprises sequence of one or more route components selected enabling superplayers to be deemed to outbid , with or from the following group of route components : road without payment, as desired by the relevant authorities, ways, intersections, traffic lights , bridges , ferries, turn- 25 any other non -superplayer bidder and thereby be pikes, and tunnels; and wherein the bid comprises a granted the fastest driving times to their destination , user input, a travel route fee , and at least one of a wherein the superplayers are selected from the group vehicle information , and automatic bid ; and , comprising emergency vehicles or law enforcement a control unit for receiving the bid and rendering a decision based on the bid , wherein the decision is based 30 8. A system in foremergency vehicles advanced travel. travel, comprising : upon an auction among the bid and competing bids and a communication device for providing a bid for a desired at least one of: approval for the ticket for the desired ticket for a travel route , wherein the ticket comprises a travel route, compensation for bidding an alternate right to travel on the travel route for a limited time, and ticket to a less congested route , and decongestion of the wherein the travel route comprises a specified set and desired travel route ; and wherein the travel route fee 35 paid by the auction's winning bidder is apportioned sequence of one or more route components selected among the owners /administrators of the route compo from the following group of route components : road nents of the travel route . ways, intersections, traffic lights , bridges, ferries , turn 2. The system of claim 1, further comprising : pikes, and tunnels ; at least one sensor that provides traffic -related intelli- 40 wherein the bid comprises a user input, a travel route fee , gence , wherein the control unit includes the traffic and at least one ofa vehicle information , and automatic related intelligence in making the decision whether to bid ; and award the desired travel route . a control unit for receiving the bid and rendering a 3. The system of claim 2 , wherein the at least one sensor decision based on the bid , wherein the decision is based is from the group of ground -based , roadway -based and 45 upon an auction among the bid and competing bids and satellite -based sensors . at least one of: 4. The system of claim 1, wherein the communication sation approval for the ticket for the desired travel route, compen device is from the group of computer,mobile phone , vehicle route , and for bidding an alternate ticket to a less congested reporter, tablet computer, a dedicated computer, a smart decongestion of the desired travel route ; and watch , other wearable computer and kiosk . 50 wherein bidders may bid on individual routes or aggre 5. A method for travel along a desired route , comprising gated packages of routes , and may bid manually, or the steps of: may instruct a bidding computing device to bid for selecting a ticket for a desired travel route and corre them , subject to whatever constraints the bidders sponding time; specify ; bidding on the ticket for the desired travel route and 55 wherein bidder's bids may be controlled by their own computing device, and wherein said computing device corresponding time; receiving a decision on whether the ticket for the desired is configured to be capable of constant or occasional travel route and corresponding timewas awarded ; and contact with the bid -receiving computer to receive buying a right to the ticket to the desired travel route and updates and send back their own updated bids and asks ; corresponding time. 60 and 6. The method of claim 5 , further comprising the step of wherein the bidders can specify the constraints to the offering to resell the ticket to the desired travel route ; and bid -receiving computer, wherein the constraints wherein the ticket to the desired route and time is selected include one or more of: what their bid conditions were , from the group comprising: an entire journey and a portion what their bid request was, and instructing the bid of the journey ; and 65 receiving computer to bid if they were route buyers , or wherein the ticket further comprises the right to priori offer if they were route sellers , on their behalf. tized travel relative to other travelers , and wherein the