Systems and methods for assembling patterns, cutting and applying window and paint protection films

Abstract

A method, software application, and system for assembling a pattern, cutting, and applying a film to a vehicle, comprising: receiving vehicle identification information and obtaining a pattern associated with the received vehicle identification information using pattern assembly instructions stored in a memory and executed by a processor; modifying the pattern using pattern modification instructions stored in a memory and executed by a processor; transmitting the pattern to a cutting machine, the cutting machine operable to cut the film according to the pattern; and transmitting installation instructions associated with the pattern to a mobile device adapted for use by an installer / user to display the installation instructions near the vehicle.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of window films (WF) and paint protection films (PPF). More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a system and method for assembling patterns, cutting and applying WF and PPF. The present disclosure provides a software application, including a mobile component, that assists installers in selecting, cutting and correctly applying WF and PPF. [Background technology]

[0002] It is becoming increasingly common for customers to cover the windows and paintwork of their vehicles, especially high-end and specialized vehicles, with WFs and PPFs. Such WFs and PPFs are typically cut from film sheets using patterns and then applied to the desired vehicle surface to enhance or customize the appearance of the vehicle surface and to protect the vehicle surface. Traditionally, the generation of such patterns has been manual, and the number and variety of patterns has been correspondingly limited. Similarly, the cutting process has been manual or assisted only by basic software, limiting convenience, customizability, and post-application guidance. The process of pattern formation, cutting, and application is made more difficult by the sheer number of vehicles that can be covered, the number of exterior components associated with each vehicle, and the difficulty of aligning each cover piece with the appropriate exterior component. Window and paint coating services are typically provided by dealerships and after-sales stores and represent a huge and growing market. It is therefore essential to expand pattern inventory and improve accuracy and efficiency, primarily through the provision of a robust, integrated software platform for installers to use.

[0003] This background art relating to WF and PPF is provided only as an example context, and it will be readily apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art that the concepts of the present disclosure may be equally applied in other contexts without limitation. Summary of the Invention

[0004] In various exemplary embodiments, the present disclosure provides systems, methods, and software applications, including mobile components, that provide an installer, or more generally a user, with access to a multitude of WF and PPF cut-out patterns, allow these cut-out patterns to be viewed, manipulated, and customized as desired, and provide guidance, via a mobile device, as to where and how the resulting cover pieces should be applied to vehicle components.

[0005] A software application embodied as a non-transitory computer readable medium and including a mobile component optionally incorporates a mapping tool that allows WF and PPF cutout patterns to be acquired and stored and then cross-referenced between vehicles utilizing common components to create complete patterns for more vehicles than previously possible. Patterns and / or part data used to generate and associate patterns are acquired from original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and third party databases, as well as conventional and novel 3-D imaging and 2-D pattern generation techniques. This mapping tool is described in more detail herein below.

[0006] The software application also optionally incorporates a cropping tool that allows a given pattern to be selected, optimized for a given film area, customized to account for desired edge overlap, etc., and then cropped out. This cropping tool is described in more detail herein below.

[0007] The software application further optionally incorporates automated decision-making algorithms and business logic that provide various selected information categories made visible to the installer / user, such as sensor location, badge location, tacking sequence, etc. Traditional or exoskeleton views that present the various cover pieces and vehicle components in a logical relative configuration are optionally utilized, for example allowing easy verification of the correct alignment of each cover piece. This automated decision-making tool is described in more detail herein below.

[0008] In general, the software applications utilize enhanced user interfaces, mobile device accessibility and displays, and artificial intelligence (AI) to facilitate and coordinate various processes on an installer / user / vehicle basis, thus providing superior database generation, operational efficiency, and installer / user experience.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure provides a method for assembling a pattern and cutting and applying a film to a vehicle, the method including the steps of receiving a vehicle identification information and obtaining a pattern associated with the received vehicle identification information using pattern assembly instructions stored in a memory and executed by a processor, modifying the pattern using pattern modification instructions stored in a memory and executed by a processor, transmitting the pattern to a cutter, the cutter operable to cut the film according to the pattern, and transmitting installation instructions associated with the pattern to a mobile device utilized by an installer / user and adapted to display the installation instructions near the vehicle. Receiving the vehicle identification information includes one of selecting a vehicle from a vehicle database and scanning a vehicle identification number of the vehicle using the mobile device. When executed by the processor, the pattern assembly instructions are operable to inter-associate common pattern parts between vehicles that are pre-determined to be in a common vehicle family. When executed by the processor, the pattern modification instructions are operable to one or more of: reconfigure the relative positions of the parts of the pattern, modify the size of the parts of the pattern based on a predetermined dimensional change in the film associated with the parts of the pattern during installation, add one or more predetermined sensor cutouts to the parts of the pattern, add one or more predetermined badge cutouts to the parts of the pattern, and add one or more edge wrap extensions to the parts of the pattern based on an installer / user preference instruction. The installation instructions displayed on the mobile device include one or more tack points to be used by the installer / user when the mounting parts cut from the film according to the pattern are installed on the vehicle. The installation instructions displayed on the mobile device also include one or more notes associated with the pattern and associated with a previous installation. The installation instructions displayed on the mobile device further include one or more videos associated with the pattern.Optionally, the mobile device is operable to capture an image of the vehicle with the pattern displayed thereon in the augmented reality space.

[0010] In another exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure provides a non-transitory computer-readable medium stored as instructions in a memory and executed by a processor to execute steps for assembling a pattern, cutting and applying a film to a vehicle, the steps including receiving a vehicle identification information and obtaining a pattern associated with the received vehicle identification information using the pattern assembly instructions stored in the memory and executed by the processor, modifying the pattern using the pattern modification instructions stored in the memory and executed by the processor, transmitting the pattern to a cutter, the cutter operable to cut the film according to the pattern, and transmitting installation instructions associated with the pattern to a mobile device utilized by an installer / user and adapted to display the installation instructions near the vehicle. Receiving the vehicle identification information includes one of selecting a vehicle from a vehicle database and scanning a vehicle identification number of the vehicle using the mobile device. When executed by the processor, the pattern assembly instructions are operable to inter-associate common pattern parts between vehicles predetermined to be in a common vehicle family. When executed by the processor, the pattern modification instructions are operable to one or more of: reconfigure the relative positions of the parts of the pattern, modify the size of the parts of the pattern based on predetermined dimensional changes in the film associated with the parts of the pattern during installation, add one or more predetermined sensor cutouts to the parts of the pattern, add one or more predetermined badge cutouts to the parts of the pattern, and add one or more edge wrap extensions to the parts of the pattern based on installer / user preference instructions. The installation instructions displayed on the mobile device include one or more tack points to be used by the installer / user when the mounting parts cut from the film according to the pattern are installed on the vehicle. The installation instructions displayed on the mobile device also include one or more notes associated with a previous installation associated with the pattern.The installation instructions displayed on the mobile device further include one or more videos associated with the pattern. Optionally, the mobile device is operable to capture an image of the vehicle with the pattern displayed thereon in the augmented reality space.

[0011] In a further exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure provides a system for assembling a pattern and cutting and applying a film to a vehicle, the system including: a memory storing pattern assembly instructions executed by a processor to receive a vehicle identification information and obtain a pattern associated with the received vehicle identification information; a memory storing pattern modification instructions executed by the processor to modify the pattern; a memory storing pattern cut instructions executed by the processor to transmit the pattern to a cutter, the cutter being operable to cut the film according to the pattern; and a memory storing installation instructions executed by the processor to transmit installer / user instructions associated with the pattern to a mobile device adapted for utilization by an installer / user and for displaying the installer / user instructions in the vicinity of the vehicle. When executed by the processor, the pattern modification instructions are operable to one or more of: reconfigure relative positions of the parts of the pattern, modify sizes of the parts of the pattern based on predetermined dimensional changes in the film associated with the parts of the pattern during installation, add one or more predetermined sensor cutouts to the parts of the pattern, add one or more predetermined badge cutouts to the parts of the pattern, and add one or more edge wrap extensions to the parts of the pattern based on installer / user preference instructions. The installer / user instructions displayed on the mobile device include one or more tack points to be used by the installer / user when the mounting parts cut from the film according to the pattern are installed on the vehicle.

[0012] The present disclosure is illustrated and described herein with reference to various drawing figures, in which, where appropriate, like reference numbers are used to designate like system components / method steps. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 4 is a flowchart illustrating the functional process flow of the software application of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a WF or PPF pattern generation selection screen utilized in accordance with the process of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a vehicle selection screen utilized in accordance with the process of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a kit selection screen utilized in accordance with the process of FIG. 1. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operating principle of an exemplary embodiment of the mapping function and modules of the software application of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 2 is a diagram of a component display screen utilized in accordance with the process of FIG. 1. [Figure 7] 2 is a diagram of a cutting board display screen utilized in accordance with the process of FIG. 1; [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram of an exoskeleton display screen utilized in accordance with the process of FIG. 1, where the exoskeleton view is generated from multiple individual part views. [Figure 9] 2 is a diagram of a cutter settings screen utilized in accordance with the process of FIG. 1. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operating principle of an example embodiment of a sensor view function of a software application of the present disclosure that highlights the selection of sensor locations on a vehicle component for cutting / mounting purposes via the software application and / or mobile device. [Figure 11]FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operating principle of an example embodiment of a badge view feature of the software application of the present disclosure that highlights the selection of a badge location on a vehicle component for cutting / installation purposes via the software application and / or mobile device. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operating principle of an example embodiment of a tack point view feature of the software application of the present disclosure that highlights the selection of tack point locations on a vehicle component via the software application and / or mobile device for installation purposes. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operating principle of an example embodiment of an edge wrap view feature of a software application of the present disclosure that highlights a selection of edge wraps on a vehicle component for cutting / installation purposes via the software application and / or mobile device. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example embodiment of a mobile device verification software application of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example embodiment of networked status tracking and crowdsourced help features of a software application of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 1 is a network diagram of a cloud-based system for implementing various cloud-based services of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a block diagram of a server that may be used in the cloud-based system of FIG. 16 . [Figure 18] FIG. 17 is a block diagram of a user device that may be used in the cloud-based system of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0014] Again, the present disclosure provides systems, methods, and software applications, including mobile components, that provide an installer, or more generally a user, with access to a multitude of WF and PPF cut-out patterns, allow these cut-out patterns to be viewed, manipulated, and customized as desired, and provide guidance, via a mobile device, as to where and how the resulting cover pieces should be applied to vehicle components.

[0015] A software application embodied as a non-transitory computer readable medium and including a mobile component optionally incorporates a mapping tool that allows WF and PPF cutout patterns to be acquired and stored, then cross-referenced between vehicles utilizing common components to create complete patterns for more vehicles than previously possible. Patterns are acquired from part data acquired from OEM and third party databases, as well as traditional and novel 3-D imaging and 2-D pattern generation techniques. This mapping tool is described in more detail herein below.

[0016] The software application also optionally incorporates a cropping tool that allows a given pattern to be selected, optimized for a given film area, customized to account for desired edge overlap etc., resized according to installer preferences, and then cropped, which is described in more detail herein below.

[0017] The software application further optionally incorporates automated decision-making algorithms and business logic that provide various selected information categories made visible to the installer / user, such as sensor location, badge location, tacking sequence, etc. An exoskeleton view is optionally utilized that presents the various cover pieces and vehicle components in a logical relative configuration, for example allowing easy verification of the correct alignment of each cover piece. This automated decision-making tool is described in more detail herein below.

[0018] In general, the software application utilizes enhanced user interfaces, mobile device accessibility and displays, and AI to facilitate and orchestrate various processes on an installer / user / vehicle basis, thus providing superior database generation, operational efficiency, and installer / user experience.

[0019] In various exemplary embodiments, the software applications of the present disclosure generally include mapping tools, cropping tools, and automated decision making tools. These tools, implemented as interoperable software modules, are operable to perform functional tasks including, but not limited to, for example, registering a new dealer, editing a dealer profile, authorizing a new installer / user, managing passwords and privileges, selecting a new vehicle, vehicle identification number (VIN) registration, pattern / kit access and assembly, pattern feedback, note generation, dealer job workflow, pattern / kit customization, film roll selection and layout, component selection, cut alignment and layout, grouping / ungrouping functions, manual and automatic nesting, edge wrapping, sensor location, tacking point location and sequence indication, reset and alert functions, save and favorite functions, virtual instruction functions, warranty issuance, physical film lot identification (ID) tied to installed vehicle, mobile functions, performance metrics and data analysis, administrative setup, installer / user setup, cloud functions, container management, encryption, security logging, language, system, and application logs, data replication and storage, system security, and the like. This disclosure first provides details of some of the tools that may be used throughout the embodiments, then provides examples of software enablement and installer / user interaction, and finally provides examples of software architectures and environments.

[0020] FIG. 1 is a flow chart illustrating a functional process flow 10 of the software application of the present disclosure. The process 10 begins with authenticating the dealer and / or installer / user at 12 and, optionally, receiving a work order instruction 12. This authentication process can be via a stored password, biometric authentication, etc. Next, WF or PPF pattern generation is selected at 14. A related WF or PPF pattern generation selection screen 14a is shown in FIG. 2. It will be readily apparent to one skilled in the art that other types of films may also be patterned, cut, and applied using this process 10. Next, the vehicle (or other substrate) for which the WF or PPF pattern is to be generated / obtained is identified at 16 by selecting the year, make, and model or entering the VIN. A related vehicle selection screen 16a is shown in FIG. 3. Thereafter, available trim packages may also be displayed and selected, for example, if not already specified by the VIN. The installer / user then has the option at 18 to select a full vehicle pattern, an extended vehicle pattern, a partial vehicle pattern, etc., and to add or subtract individual parts from the cover 18. An associated kit selection screen 18a is shown in Figure 4. Instructions are provided as to how many parts are associated with each kit and whether the associated pattern has been "verified."

[0021] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operating principle of an exemplary embodiment of the basic mapping function and modules of the software application of the present disclosure. The mapping function allows for the identification of common components across multiple vehicles (e.g., across multiple years, models, or trims for a single manufacturer or related manufacturers). Thus, if a given pattern is not available for a particular vehicle, mapping may be performed to obtain the requested pattern from another vehicle that shares a predetermined commonality, either in advance or on demand. This cross-correlation allows the complete pattern to be developed more quickly for more vehicles. Each vehicle is not shown individually, but rather the focus is on the family that shares common parts. As illustrated, two vehicles 20a and 20b are provided, which are the same make, model, and year vehicle, but with different basic trim packages. As a result, all exterior components are the same, except for mirrors 22a and 22b, front fender packages 24a and 24b, and rear fender packages 26a and 26b. Thus, different PPF patterns are required for mirrors 22a and 22b, front fender packages 24a and 24b, and rear fender packages 26a and 26b, while all other PPF patterns are the same. The mapping tool or module is integrated accordingly with the appropriate parts repository, and partial or complete PPF patterns may be rapidly generated for two similar vehicles 20a and 20b utilizing one or more stored maps. In the pattern classification process, any missing PPF patterns for a vehicle family 20 are prioritized by a pattern generation prioritization algorithm so that all possible PPF patterns may be rapidly retrieved when requested. When a given part on vehicle 20a or 20b is changed, an impact analysis may be performed, new generation priorities are developed, and the changes are instantly mapped for all relevant vehicles 20a or 20b. Finally, maps and PPF patterns are selected by the installer / user, delivered to the cutout tool, and utilized by the cutout tool.Thus, for each vehicle 20a and 20b, a component parts list can be maintained along with a repository of common and different parts, essentially allowing for rapid configuration of patterns for almost any vehicle 20a or 20b of the vehicle family 20. Thus, a genealogy is developed for the different vehicles 20a and 20b as well as the vehicle family 20. This mapping function is based in part on vehicle recognition and utilizing, for example, deep learning (DL) to find year-over-year changes for vehicles of the same make / model. Importantly, the mapping function allows for user pattern modifications to be mapped to other future associated patterns as they are requested, so that the installer does not have to repeat the required edits.

[0022] AI capabilities and modules may be used to provide ML-based prioritization of alerts and generation of patterns based on vehicle inventory analysis. As described in more detail herein below, it is noted that the present disclosure contemplates the use of traditional or novel 3-D scanning techniques for the generation of PPF patterns. When used, these next generation enhancements transform the process of pattern development, delivering previously unattainable levels of speed and accuracy. Without even needing to touch the vehicle surface, these innovative 3-D scanning techniques capture the shape of any vehicle as flexible data that is quickly converted into a 2-D template using a laser. In one exemplary embodiment, the instrument is accurate to within 7-8 microns in 3-D space. The data science process behind pattern generation includes mapping, pattern accuracy analysis, vehicle prioritization, vehicle comparison, 3-D data cleaning, 3-D to 2-D pattern validation, and current vehicle position end pointing.

[0023] FIG. 6 is a parts display screen 30a utilized in accordance with process 10 of FIG. 1, where a list of the various parts of the pattern is provided and an image of each part of the pattern is shown. If the content of the pattern is acceptable to the installer / user, a cutboard may be generated. FIG. 7 is a cutboard display screen 32a utilized in accordance with process 10 of FIG. 1, where various parts 34 are laid out on an image of the film 36 from which they will ultimately be cut. On this cutboard display screen 32a, the parts 34 may be selected, moved, gridded, rotated, modified, manually or automatically nested to conserve film material during the cutting process, etc. Additionally, customized edge wraps may be added to the pattern, badge and sensor locations may be specified on the pattern, etc., as described in more detail herein below. FIG. 8 is an exoskeleton display screen 38 utilized in accordance with process 10 of FIG. 1, where an exoskeleton view is generated from multiple individual part views. This exoskeleton view 38 presents the various cover pieces in a common sense vehicle-aware layout, showing the relative position of each as laid out on the vehicle. Again, each cover piece is individually selectable, allowing further functionality thereafter. The exoskeleton view 38 allows for pattern selection, priority placement, advanced visualization, pattern wrapping, pattern manipulation, pattern drawing and queuing, crop diagnostics and dashboarding, profile settings and saved preferences, links to help screens and help videos for other available views, among other things. The exoskeleton view 38 is dynamically generated for any given vehicle, for example, by identifying and positioning, rotating and / or spacing the pattern image associated with the vehicle, as are the other available views.

[0024] FIG. 9 is a cutter setup screen 40a utilized in accordance with the process 10 of FIG. 1. Here, work order identification information may be provided to the cutter, a cut pattern on the cut board may be selected for the cutter, a film roll size may be specified, padding after cut may be specified, and a cutting blade force may be specified. When instructed, the cut pattern on the cut board is sent to the selected cutter, and the component covers are cut from the film. Again, cutouts for sensors and badges as well as customized edge wraps may be turned on or off, as described in more detail herein below. Tackpoints may also be turned on or off, but this is primarily for display purposes and similarly has no effect on the actual cut that is made. At various points in the process, the software application can provide useful installer / user assistance, return to work order information, and accept installer / user notes that may be stored for later reference. The cutting machine may also require a password or other authentication via a software application.

[0025] Additionally, it should be noted that, as a general matter, a selection made on one screen is typically implemented across all screens. Thus, a part may be selected on one screen and then, for example, highlighted in other available views. The cropping algorithm of the present disclosure may implement any conventional or novel cropping technique. For example, a pattern generated via the software application of the present disclosure may include selected edge wraps, sensor cutouts, badge cutouts, etc., and may occupy areas where significant film stretch is expected upon installation. In certain thin pattern areas, significant installer force may be applied based on past experience, which may be common when the film stretches during application. In such areas, less pattern material may be provided to compensate for such stretching. Conversely, if more stretch than necessary is expected to be required, an appropriate amount of film may be provided. Thus, the generated pattern may be dynamic and adaptive, accounting for actual installer feedback to address needs and resolve issues in advance.

[0026] Referring again to FIG. 1 , after cutting, the software application or a mobile device communicatively coupled to the software application is used to provide the installer / user with installation instructions, pattern note sources from past / other installations, instructional videos, etc. to assist the installer / user in installing the WF or PPF on the vehicle 50. For example, various preferred tacking points may be displayed, preferred tacking order may be indicated, preferred extension areas are noted, and again, links to related notes, videos, etc. are indicated. In another exemplary extension, the installer / user may be able to take a picture of the vehicle or part thereof using the mobile device, and then in an augmented reality (AR) space, the various parts of the pattern may be overlaid in the correct orientation on the photo (or image) of the vehicle or part thereof, again, indicating sensor locations, badge locations, tacking points, edge wrap positioning, etc. In this way, the installer / user has a strategy of points of installation at their fingertips.

[0027] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operating principle of an example embodiment of a sensor view 60 feature of the software application of the present disclosure that highlights the selection of a sensor location 64 on a vehicle component 62 via a software application and / or mobile device for cutting / installation purposes. In general, the cutout data is stored so that the user interface knows which cutouts correspond to specific parts and cover pieces and can easily switch between cutouts or groupings of cutouts. A list of cutouts is automatically built based on the stored metadata and made available to the user interface. Such cutouts include sensors, badges, etc. For all such cutouts, a line path naming convention represents these items within the pattern SVG so that the software application can recognize and interact with these paths.

[0028] 11 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operating principle of an example embodiment of a badge view 70 feature of the software application of the present disclosure that highlights the selection of a badge location 74 on a vehicle component 72 via the software application and / or mobile device for cutting / attachment purposes. Again, generally, cutout data is stored so that the user interface knows which cutouts correspond to specific parts and cover pieces and can easily switch between cutouts or groupings of cutouts. A list of cutouts is automatically built based on the stored metadata and made available to the user interface. Such cutouts include sensors, badges, etc.

[0029] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operating principle of an exemplary embodiment of a tacking point view 80 feature of the software application of the present disclosure, which highlights the selection of tacking point locations 84 on a vehicle component 82 via the software application and / or mobile device for installation purposes. Generally, tacking point data is stored so that the user interface knows which tacking points correspond to specific parts and cover pieces and can easily switch between tacking points or groupings of tacking points. A list of tacking points is automatically built based on the stored metadata and made available to the user interface. Such tacking points are preferably ordered. For example, to optimize the matching and processing requirements, the tacking points help guide the installer as to where to start applying the film to the component, since generally, the film must be tacking and stretched to match them to the film. The tacking points are displayed in this manner and numbered sequentially for easy reference and use by the installer.

[0030] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operating principle of an exemplary embodiment of an edge wrap view 90 feature of the software application of the present disclosure that highlights the selection of an edge wrap 94 on a vehicle component 92 via the software application and / or mobile device for cutting / installation purposes. Typically, the pattern edges to be wrapped are stored in the pattern metadata and made available to the user interface. The user can thus select an edge and extend the pattern along the edge, automatically creating the desired edge wrap that, when installed, looks and performs as if it was custom created by hand. Additionally, the user can toggle on and off the ability to create and save handmade wraps.

[0031] 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating an exemplary embodiment of a mobile device validation of the software application of the present disclosure, specifically illustrating the scanning of a VIN 96 using a mobile device 95 that is operatively linked to or that itself executes the software application.

[0032] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example embodiment of the networked status tracking and crowdsourced help features of the software application of the present disclosure. Typically, the mobile device 95 (FIG. 14) is linked to the software application functionality via, for example, scanning the VIN 96. This allows various exoskeleton views and installation guides from the software application to be viewed by the user-installer near the vehicle. This same VIN availability allows the status of a given cut / install job to be tracked and posted to a centralized display 97 (FIG. 15) or monitored by another mobile device so that workflow can be tracked and the customer is kept informed of the job's progress. Progress logging via the mobile device can be used to collect and analyze job performance metrics and the like. Importantly, the mobile application includes a dealer dashboard 98 (FIG. 15), enabling VIN scanning, photo check-in, workflow management, and feedback entry. The mobile application also includes pattern check, current cut view, exoskeleton view, tacking point view, virtual technical service, and access to tutorials. Standard features include user profiles, chat support, and social media posting. A pattern check verifies the availability of a given pattern and provides any tagged user comments for future reference. Real-time progress snapshots can also be taken for shared display and progress tracking.

[0033] It should be noted that the software architecture of the present disclosure enables many traditional functions such as real-time virtual support and feedback, as well as marketing via social media. Additionally, real-time and scheduled updates can be pushed. The software architecture moves the software application away from dependency on traditional computer-aided drawing (CAD) platforms, allowing for more robust server and cloud-based operations. Helpful part-specific tips and videos may be provided that are available upon rollover of individual pattern pieces within the exoskeleton view, as received from a variety of stored and internet-based sources.

[0034] It should be appreciated that, depending on the example, certain activities or events of any of the techniques described herein may be performed in a different order, or may be added, merged, or omitted entirely (e.g., not all described activities and events are necessary to practice the techniques). Moreover, in certain examples, activities or events may be performed simultaneously rather than sequentially, e.g., via multithreading, interrupt processing, or multiple processors.

[0035] FIG. 16 is a network diagram of a cloud-based system 100 for implementing various cloud-based services of the present disclosure. The cloud-based system 100 includes one or more cloud nodes (CN) 102 communicatively coupled to the Internet 104 or the like. The cloud nodes 102 may be implemented as servers 200 (shown in FIG. 17 ) or the like and may be geographically distinct from one another, such as being located in various data centers across the country or the world. Additionally, the cloud-based system 100 may include one or more central authority (CA) nodes 106, which may be implemented similarly to the servers 200 and connected to the CN 102. For illustrative purposes, the cloud-based system 100 may be connected to branch offices 110, a headquarters 120, various employee homes 130, laptops / desktops 140, and mobile devices 150, each of which may be communicatively coupled to one of the CNs 102. These locations 110, 120, and 130 and devices 140 and 150 are shown for illustrative purposes, and one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that there are a variety of access scenarios to cloud-based system 100, all of which are contemplated herein. Devices 140 and 150 may be so-called road warriors, i.e., off-site, mobile users, etc. Cloud-based system 100 may be a private cloud, a public cloud, a combination of private and public clouds (hybrid cloud), etc.

[0036] Again, the cloud-based system 100 can provide any functionality to the locations 110, 120, and 130 and the devices 140 and 150 via services such as software as a service (SaaS), platform as a service, infrastructure as a service, security as a service, virtual network functions (VNFs) in a network function virtualization (NVF) infrastructure (NFVI), etc. Traditionally, information technology (IT) deployment models have included enterprise resources and applications stored in enterprise networks (i.e., physical devices) behind a firewall, accessible by employees on-site or remotely via virtual private networks (VPNs), etc. The cloud-based system 100 replaces the traditional deployment model. The cloud-based system 100 can be used to implement these services in the cloud without the need for physical devices and their management by enterprise IT administrators.

[0037] Cloud computing systems and methods remove physical servers, storage, networking, etc., and instead provide them as on-demand and flexible resources. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) provides a concise and specific definition, describing cloud computing as a model for enabling convenient, on-demand network access to a shared pool of configurable computing resources (e.g., networks, servers, storage, applications, and services) that are rapidly provisioned and released with minimal management effort or interaction with the service provider. Cloud computing differs from the traditional client-server model by providing applications from a server that are executed and managed by the client's web browser, etc., and does not necessarily require an installed client version of the application. Centralization gives the cloud service provider complete control over the versions of browser-based and other applications provided to the client, thereby eliminating the need for version updates or license management on individual client computing devices. The phrase "Software as a Service" (SaaS) is sometimes used to describe application programs provided via cloud computing. A common shorthand for the provided cloud computing services (or even an aggregation of all existing cloud services) is "cloud." Cloud-based system 100 is illustrated herein as one exemplary embodiment of a cloud-based system, and those skilled in the art will recognize that the systems and methods described herein are not necessarily limited thereby.

[0038] FIG. 17 is a block diagram of a server 200 that may be used in the cloud-based system 100 (FIG. 16), in other systems, or standalone. For example, the CN 102 (FIG. 16) and the central authority node 106 (FIG. 16) may be formed as one or more of the servers 200. In terms of hardware architecture, the server 200 may generally be a digital computer including a processor 202, an input / output (I / O) interface 204, a network interface 206, a data store 208, and a memory 210. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that FIG. 17 depicts the server 200 in an oversimplified manner, and an actual embodiment may include additional components and appropriately configured processing logic to support known or conventional operational functions not described in detail herein. The components (202, 204, 206, 208, and 210) are communicatively coupled via a local interface 212. The local interface 212 may be, for example, without limitation, one or more buses or other wired or wireless connections as known in the art. The local interface 212 may have additional elements omitted for brevity, such as controllers, buffers (caches), drivers, repeaters, and receivers, among others, to enable communication. Additionally, the local interface 212 may include address, control, and / or data connections to enable appropriate communication between the aforementioned components.

[0039] The processor 202 is a hardware device for executing software instructions. The processor 202 may be a custom or commercially available processor, a central processing unit (CPU), an auxiliary processor among several processors associated with the server 200, a semiconductor-based microprocessor (in the form of a microchip or chipset), or generally any device for executing software instructions. When the server 200 is in operation, the processor 202 is configured to execute software stored in the memory 210 to communicate data to and from the memory 210 and generally control the operation of the server 200 according to the software instructions. The I / O interface 204 may be used to receive user input from one or more devices or components and / or provide system output to one or more devices or components.

[0040] The network interface 206 may be used to enable the server 200 to communicate over a network such as the Internet 104 (FIG. 16). The network interface 206 may include, for example, an Ethernet card or adapter (e.g., 10BaseT, Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, or 10 GbE) or a Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) card or adapter (e.g., 802.11a / b / g / n / ac). The network interface 206 may include address, control, and / or data connections to enable appropriate communication over the network. The data store 208 may be used to store data. The data store 208 may include any of volatile memory elements (e.g., random access memory (RAM, such as DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.)), non-volatile memory elements (e.g., ROM, hard drive, tape, CD-ROM, etc.), and combinations thereof. Moreover, the data store 208 may incorporate electronic, magnetic, optical, and / or other types of storage media. In one example, the data store 208 may be located internal to the server 200, such as, for example, an internal hard drive connected to the local interface 212 in the server 200. Additionally, in another embodiment, the data store 208 may be located external to the server 200, such as, for example, an external hard drive connected to the I / O interface 204 (e.g., a SCSI or USB connection). In a further embodiment, the data store 208 may be connected to the server 200 via a network, such as, for example, a network-attached file server.

[0041] The memory 210 may include any of volatile memory elements (e.g., random access memory (RAM, such as DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.)), non-volatile memory elements (e.g., ROM, hard drive, tape, CD-ROM, etc.), and combinations thereof. Moreover, the memory 210 may incorporate electronic, magnetic, optical, and / or other types of storage media. It should be noted that the memory 210 may have a distributed architecture, in which various components are located remotely from one another but can be accessed by the processor 202. The software in the memory 210 may include one or more software programs, each of which includes an ordered listing of executable instructions for implementing logical functions. The software in the memory 210 includes a suitable operating system (O / S) 514 and one or more programs 216. The operating system 214 essentially controls the execution of other computer programs, such as the one or more programs 216, and provides scheduling, input / output control, file and data management, memory management, and communication control and related services. The one or more programs 216 may be configured to implement the various processes, algorithms, methods, techniques, etc. described herein.

[0042] It should be understood that some embodiments described herein may include one or more general-purpose or special-purpose processors ("processor(s)"), such as a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), a network processor (NP) or network processing unit (NPU), a specialized processor such as a graphics processing unit (GPU), a field programmable gate array (FPGA) with its own stored program instructions (including both software and firmware) for controlling it in conjunction with certain non-processor circuitry to implement some, most, or all of the functions of the methods and / or systems described herein. Alternatively, some or all of the instructions may be implemented by a state machine without stored program instructions, or within one or more application specific integrated circuits (ASICs) in which each function or some combination of certain functions are implemented as custom logic or circuitry. Of course, a combination of the foregoing approaches may be used. In some of the embodiments described herein, the corresponding device in hardware, optionally having software, firmware, and combinations thereof, may be referred to as a "circuit configured or adapted," "logic configured or adapted," etc. to perform a set of operations, steps, methods, processes, algorithms, functions, techniques, etc., on digital and / or analog signals, as described herein for various embodiments.

[0043] Moreover, some embodiments may include a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium having computer-readable code stored thereon for programming a computer, server, appliance, device, processor, circuit, etc., each of which may include a processor to perform the functions described and claimed herein. Examples of such computer-readable storage media include, but are not limited to, hard disks, optical storage devices, magnetic storage devices, read-only memories (ROMs), programmable read-only memories (PROMs), erasable programmable read-only memories (EPROMs), electrically erasable programmable read-only memories (EEPROMs), flash memories, etc. When stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, the software may include instructions executable by a processor or device (e.g., any type of programmable circuit or programmable logic) that, in response to such execution, cause the processor or device to perform a set of operations, steps, methods, processes, algorithms, functions, techniques, etc., described herein for various embodiments.

[0044] FIG. 18 is a block diagram of a user device 300 that may be used in the cloud-based system 100 (FIG. 16), etc. To reiterate, the user device 300 may be a smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, Internet of Things (IoT) device, laptop, virtual reality (VR) headset, etc. In terms of hardware architecture, the user device 300 may generally be a digital device including a processor 302, an I / O interface 304, a radio 306, a data store 308, and a memory 310. It should be appreciated by those skilled in the art that FIG. 18 depicts the user device 300 in an oversimplified manner, and that an actual embodiment may include additional components and appropriately configured processing logic to support known or conventional operational functions not described in detail herein. The components (302, 304, 306, 308, and 310) are communicatively coupled via a local interface 312. The local interface 312 may be, for example, but not limited to, one or more buses or other wired or wireless connections, as known in the art. The local interface 312 may have additional elements omitted for brevity, such as controllers, buffers (caches), drivers, repeaters, and receivers, among others, to enable communication. Additionally, the local interface 312 may include address, control, and / or data connections to enable appropriate communication between the aforementioned components.

[0045] The processor 302 is a hardware device for executing software instructions. The processor 302 may be a custom or commercially available processor, a CPU, an auxiliary processor among several processors associated with the user device 300, a semiconductor-based microprocessor (in the form of a microchip or chipset), or generally any device for executing software instructions. When the user device 300 is in operation, the processor 302 is configured to execute software stored in the memory 310 to communicate data to and from the memory 310 and generally control the operation of the user device 300 according to the software instructions. In one embodiment, the processor 302 may include a mobile-optimized processor, such as a processor optimized for power consumption and mobile applications. The I / O interface 304 may be used to receive user input and / or provide system output. User input may be provided, for example, via a keypad, a touch screen, a scroll ball, a scroll bar, a button, a barcode scanner, or the like. System output may be provided via a display device, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), a touch screen, or the like.

[0046] The radio 306 enables wireless communication to an external access device or network. Any number of suitable wireless data communication protocols, techniques, or methods may be supported by the radio 306, including any protocol for wireless communication. The data store 308 may be used to store data. The data store 308 may include any of volatile memory elements (e.g., random access memory (RAM, such as DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.)), non-volatile memory elements (e.g., ROM, hard drive, tape, CD-ROM, etc.), and combinations thereof. Moreover, the data store 308 may incorporate electronic, magnetic, optical, and / or other types of storage media.

[0047] Again, memory 310 may include any of volatile memory elements (e.g., random access memory (RAM, such as DRAM, SRAM, SDRAM, etc.)), non-volatile memory elements (e.g., ROM, hard drive, etc.), and combinations thereof. Moreover, memory 310 may incorporate electronic, magnetic, optical, and / or other types of storage media. It should be noted that memory 310 may have a distributed architecture, with various components located remotely from one another but accessible by processor 302. The software in memory 310 may include one or more software programs, each of which includes an ordered listing of executable instructions for implementing logical functions. In the example of FIG. 18, the software in memory 310 includes a suitable operating system 314 and programs 316. Operating system 314 essentially controls the execution of other computer programs and provides scheduling, input / output control, file and data management, memory management, and communication control and related services. Programs 316 may include various applications, add-ons, etc., configured to provide end-user functionality to user device 300. For example, exemplary programs 316 may include, but are not limited to, a web browser, a social networking application, a streaming media application, games, mapping and location applications, email applications, financial applications, etc. In a typical example, an end user would typically use one or more of the programs 316 in conjunction with a network, such as the cloud-based system 100 (FIG. 16).

[0048] While the present disclosure has been illustrated and described herein with reference to preferred embodiments and specific examples thereof, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that other embodiments and examples may perform similar functions and / or achieve similar results. All such equivalent embodiments and examples are within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, and are construed hereby to be encompassed by the following non-limiting claims for all purposes.

Claims

1. 1. A method for assembling a pattern and cutting and applying a film to a vehicle, the method comprising: receiving a vehicle identification information and obtaining the pattern associated with the received vehicle identification information using pattern assembly instructions stored in a memory and executed by a processor; modifying the pattern using pattern modification instructions stored in the memory and executed by the processor; sending the modified pattern to a cutter, the cutter operable to cut the film according to the modified pattern; transmitting the installation instructions associated with the modified pattern to a mobile device adapted for use by an installer / user to display the installation instructions in the vicinity of the vehicle; Including, A method wherein the pattern modification instructions include instructions for incorporating previous installer / user edits to an associated mapped pattern into the pattern.

2. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein receiving the vehicle identification information includes one of selecting the vehicle from a vehicle database and scanning a vehicle identification number of the vehicle using the mobile device.

3. the pattern assembly instructions, when executed by the processor, are operable to interrelate common pattern parts between vehicles that are predetermined to be within a common vehicle family; 2. The method of claim 1, wherein when a part of the vehicle is changed, the change in the part of the vehicle is mapped to other vehicles in a common vehicle family with the vehicle, the mapping being based in part on finding year-over-year changes for vehicles in a common vehicle family with the vehicle using deep learning.

4. When executed by the processor, the pattern modification instructions include: reconstructing the relative positions of parts of said pattern; modifying a size of the part of the pattern based on a predetermined dimensional change in a film associated with the part of the pattern during installation; adding or removing one or more predefined sensor cutouts to or from parts of the pattern; adding or removing one or more predetermined badge cutouts to or from parts of the pattern; and Adding or removing one or more edge wrap extensions to or from said pattern parts based on installer / user preference instructions; The method of claim 1 , operable for one or more of:

5. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the installation instructions displayed on the mobile device include one or more temporary attachment points to be used by the installer / user when mounting parts cut from the film according to the pattern are attached to the vehicle.

6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the installation instructions displayed on the mobile device include notes associated with one or more previous installations associated with the pattern.

7. The method of claim 1 , wherein the installation instructions displayed on the mobile device include one or more videos associated with the pattern.

8. The method of claim 1 , wherein the mobile device is operable to capture an image of the vehicle with the pattern displayed thereon in an augmented reality space.

9. 1. A non-transitory computer readable medium storing instructions that are executed by a processor to perform steps for assembling a pattern and cutting and applying a film to a vehicle, the steps comprising: receiving a vehicle identification information and obtaining the pattern associated with the received vehicle identification information using pattern assembly instructions executed by the processor; modifying the pattern using pattern modification instructions executed by the processor; transmitting the modified pattern to a cutter, the cutter operable to cut the film according to the modified pattern; transmitting the installation instructions associated with the modified pattern to a mobile device adapted for use by an installer / user to display the installation instructions in the vicinity of the vehicle; Including, The pattern modification instructions include instructions for incorporating previous installer / user edits to an associated mapped pattern into the pattern.

10. 10. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9, wherein receiving the vehicle identification information includes one of selecting the vehicle from a vehicle database and scanning a vehicle identification number of the vehicle using the mobile device.

11. the pattern assembly instructions, when executed by the processor, are operable to interrelate common pattern parts between vehicles that are predetermined to be within a common vehicle family; 10. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9, wherein when a part of the vehicle is changed, the change in the part of the vehicle is mapped to other vehicles in a common vehicle family with the vehicle, the mapping being based in part on finding year-over-year changes for vehicles in a common vehicle family with the vehicle through deep learning.

12. When executed by the processor, the pattern modification instructions include: reconstructing the relative positions of parts of said pattern; modifying a size of the part of the pattern based on a predetermined dimensional change in a film associated with the part of the pattern during installation; adding or removing one or more predefined sensor cutouts to or from parts of the pattern; adding or removing one or more predetermined badge cutouts to or from parts of the pattern; and Adding or removing one or more edge wrap extensions to or from said pattern parts based on installer / user preference instructions; 10. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9, operable for one or more of:

13. 10. The non-transitory computer readable medium of claim 9, wherein the installation instructions displayed on the mobile device include one or more temporary attachment points to be used by the installer / user when mounting parts cut from the film according to the pattern are attached to the vehicle.

14. 10. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9, wherein the installation instructions displayed on the mobile device include notes associated with one or more previous installations associated with the pattern.

15. 10. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9, wherein the installation instructions displayed on the mobile device include one or more videos associated with the pattern.

16. 10. The non-transitory computer-readable medium of claim 9, wherein the mobile device is operable to capture an image of the vehicle with the pattern displayed thereon in an augmented reality space.

17. 1. A system for assembling a pattern and cutting and applying a film to a vehicle, the system comprising: a memory storing pattern assembly instructions that are executable by a processor to receive a vehicle identification information and obtain the pattern associated with the received vehicle identification information; the memory storing pattern modification instructions that are executed by the processor to modify the pattern; the memory storing pattern cut instructions that are executed by the processor to send the modified pattern to a cutter, the cutter being operable to cut the film according to the modified pattern; the memory storing installation instructions that are executed by the processor to transmit the installer / user instructions associated with the modified pattern to a mobile device adapted for use by an installer / user to display installer / user instructions in the vicinity of the vehicle; Including, The pattern modification instructions include instructions for incorporating previous installer / user edits to an associated mapped pattern into the pattern.

18. When executed by the processor, the pattern modification instructions include: reconstructing the relative positions of parts of said pattern; modifying a size of the part of the pattern based on a predetermined dimensional change in a film associated with the part of the pattern during installation; adding or removing one or more predefined sensor cutouts to or from parts of the pattern; adding or removing one or more predetermined badge cutouts to or from parts of the pattern; and Adding or removing one or more edge wrap extensions to or from said pattern parts based on installer / user preference instructions; The system of claim 17 , operable for one or more of:

19. 20. The system of claim 17, wherein the installer / user instructions displayed on the mobile device include one or more temporary attachment points to be used by the installer / user when mounting components cut from the film according to the pattern are mounted on the vehicle.

Images