System and method for developing and distributing mobility solutions

Abstract

The system (100) provides a framework / platform for developing and distributing vehicle-related solutions. The processor (122) is adapted to present a plurality of modules (120) in at least one terminal device (130) based on an access request. The plurality of modules (120) can be displayed on a display interface of the at least one terminal device (130). The processor (122) further executes instructions for developing solutions generated from the plurality of modules (120), wherein the instructions are generated by a user of the at least one terminal device (130) in communication with a server (124). The plurality of modules (120) can be accessed through an input unit of the at least one terminal device (130), and each of the plurality of modules (120) can be used individually or in combination. The processor (122) stores the developed solution in the server (124) for distribution.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to systems and methods for developing and distributing vehicle mobility solutions. Background Art

[0002] According to patent 256171, a distributed development environment for building Internet applications by developers at remote locations is disclosed. Internet hosted business applications consisting of web services and software are developed for use in such an environment where applications and application components interoperate to perform requested business functions. The present invention utilizes software development application service provider modules (DASP), instantiator modules, builder modules, application service provider (ASP) infrastructure platform (AIP) modules, and hosted production environment modules. Developers and testers are located in different locations, so that a larger pool of skilled personnel can be hired, the work can be completed around the clock by personnel around the world, and costs can be reduced by handing the work to personnel in countries with lower labor rates. The system and method of the present invention increase efficiency and reduce costs for all parties by enabling developers to collaborate with third parties introduced at the beginning of development. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0003] Embodiments of the present disclosure are described with reference to the following drawings:

[0004] Figure 1 A block diagram of a system for developing and distributing mobility solutions according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated, and

[0005] Figure 2 A method for developing and distributing a mobility solution according to the present invention is illustrated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0006] Figure 1A block diagram of a system for developing and distributing mobility solutions according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The system 100 includes a server 124 or cloud, at least one terminal device 130 that can be connected to the server 124 through at least one of a wired connection and / or a wireless connection, and at least one processor 122. After authentication, the processor 122 establishes communication between the server 124 and at least one of the terminal devices 130. The wired connection refers to a local area network (LAN), a connection based on a universal serial bus (USB), and other similar cables and adapters that enable connection to a network. The wireless connection refers to digital wireless telephone technology, such as time division multiple access (TDMA), code division multiple access (CDMA) and global mobile communication system (GSM), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, wide area network (WAN), etc. In addition, the network is the Internet (global) or an intranet (local). The system 100 is characterized in that the processor 122 and the server 124 provide a framework / platform for developing and distributing solutions related to vehicles. The processor 122 is adapted to present a plurality of modules 120 (also referred to as layers) in at least one terminal device 130 based on an access request. The plurality of modules 120 may be displayed on a display interface of at least one terminal device 130. The processor 122 further executes instructions for developing solutions generated from the plurality of modules 120, wherein the instructions are generated by a user of at least one terminal device 130 in communication with the server 124. The plurality of modules 120 may be accessed through an input unit of at least one terminal device 130, and each of the plurality of modules 120 may be used individually or in combination. The processor 122 stores the developed solution in the server 124 for distribution. The processor 122 is a component of the server 124 or the cloud.

[0007] According to an embodiment, the plurality of modules 120 are selected from the group consisting of: device modules 102 , firmware modules 104 , data modules 106 , analysis modules 108 , solution modules 110 , display modules 112 , digital infrastructure modules 114 , engagement modules 116 , and business modules 118 .

[0008] The plurality of modules 120 are presented in a display interface such as a screen or a touch screen. In other words, the plurality of modules 120 are loaded into a terminal device 130. Access to the plurality of modules 120 is through a web front end or website or portal 132 opened in a web browser. In addition, the plurality of modules can also be accessed through a mobile application.

[0009] Now explain the multiple modules 120. When using multiple modules 120, instructions correspond to commands, logic, procedures, actions, selections, etc. The device module 102 includes details of at least one of the devices and modules of the device that collect or generate data required for at least one solution. The device module 102 also provides access to the at least one device or the module of the device through a source selected from a proprietary source and an e-commerce source. The device module 102 includes a list and details of devices or modules / components (such as telematics devices 134) that generate data related to solution development. The devices and modules of the devices in the device module 102 are hardware agnostic. For ease of understanding, the devices and / or modules of the devices are now collectively referred to as devices.

[0010] The firmware module 104 provides access to data required for the operation of the at least one device selected from the device module 102 in the context of the vehicle and the digital infrastructure module 114. The firmware module 104 provides firmware including logic, programs, or instruction sets for each device in the device module 102. The firmware is either pre-stored or developed in collaboration with the user. The firmware enables docking and communication with and between the vehicle and the connected infrastructure. The firmware in the firmware module 104 is device agnostic and server or cloud agnostic.

[0011] The data module 106 stores and pre-processes data generated by the at least one device. The data module 106 enables data to be processed at the device, or for edge computing or processing in the server 124 infrastructure. The data module 106 acts as a "data lake" for data generated and processed by the data module 106. The data module 106 includes sub-modules in the form of plug-ins / functions (other forms are also possible), such as harmonizers, featurings, optimizers, quantizers, etc. Similarly, plug-ins are made on demand or used from an existing list. In the event that new data modules 106 are needed, the framework also provides the necessary tools for building those new data modules without the need for separate installation. The processed data is available to users of the terminal device 130 in order to develop at least one solution.

[0012] The analysis module 108 provides at least one submodule for detailed processing of the data received from the data module 106. The at least one submodule is selected from at least one of artificial intelligence (AI), deep learning (DL), machine learning (ML), behavioral science (BS), etc. The submodules of the analysis module 108 are created based on domain experience and expertise in the automotive industry. For example, data-based engine models, physics-based engine models, fuel combustion models, catalyst models, exhaust models, vehicle driving models, powertrain models, energy management models, thermal management models, etc. are convenient for model-based calibration of internal combustion engines (ICE), electric vehicles (EV), hybrid vehicles for different types of vehicles (such as two-wheelers, three-wheelers, four-wheelers, buses, trucks, etc.).

[0013] The solution module 110 is a repository for problems, ongoing solutions, and developed solutions. Users include developers, programmers, data scientists, engineers, researchers, scholars, stakeholders, organizations, etc. Problems are posted, and users work either independently or collaboratively to provide solutions to the problem. Users are free to develop solutions to their specific problems, which are not even posted. The developed solutions, problems, and ongoing solutions are available for use or download through the solution module 110. These solutions are provided as mobile applications or instruction sets that can be executed by a computer or control unit, controller, etc. These solutions include all solutions related to vehicles. One solution is parking the vehicle, another solution is phone-based vehicle diagnosis, etc. These solutions are either executed in the vehicle or by external tools for the vehicle.

[0014] The display module 112 provides a number of tools for developing a user interface (UI) for at least one solution, such as a graphical UI for a vehicle's infotainment unit, an interactive UI for a user's mobile device, and the like.

[0015] The digital infrastructure module 114 provides multiple submodules of connectivity required for secure implementation and deployment of solutions developed for the vehicle. The digital infrastructure module 114 is the cornerstone that facilitates any development of connected solutions. In addition to being vendor agnostic, server or cloud agnostic, the digital infrastructure module 114 also defines standard protocols, security features, payment gateways, etc.

[0016] The engagement module 116 enables communication, interaction with at least one other user with respect / reference / regards to the device module 102, firmware module 104, data module 106, analysis module 108, solution module 110, display module 112, digital infrastructure module 114, and business module 118. The engagement module 116 enables a larger community of resources to come together and work on a common cause. The approach can be inside-out (where the pool of talent is within the organization) and outside-in (where the scope is beyond the organization, academia, partners, startups, government, etc.), or a combination of both.

[0017] The business module 118 enables finding customers and monetizing the developed solutions. The business module 118 is a key enabler for generating revenue and developing pricing strategies and maintaining accounting structures, but is not limited thereto. The business module 118 provides an online or digital marketplace for implementing business.

[0018] According to the present invention, the system 100 is used by at least two users, namely a solution requester and a solution provider. The solution requester uses the UI of the website or portal 132 to post a problem, which is then stored in the solution module 110, and the solution provider uses at least one module 120 to solve the problem. The solution provider solves the requested solution in any of the following ways: in an independent manner, and communicating with at least one second solution provider. The at least two users are selected from at least one of the same organization and a completely different (disparate) organization.

[0019] An example for understanding the working of the present invention is explained. The working of the present invention shall not be understood in a limiting manner. Consider an organization in which there are multiple employees or colleagues under different departments. The solution framework of the present invention is being used in the organization, such as in the form of licenses, subscriptions, etc. A work group is set up in the organization to solve the problem of emissions from vehicles. The first member of the work group opens the solution framework on a computer 126 (such as a laptop, desktop computer) through a web browser. The first member logs into the solution framework using authorization credentials. Once logged in, the first member publishes a problem statement in the solution framework through the UI of the website or portal 132, and the problem statement is then stored in the solution module 110. The second member of the work group uses a smart phone 128 to log in to the solution framework either through an application or through a browser. The second member reads the problem statement and browses the device module 102 to select an appropriate device. The second member selects a data logging device that needs to be suitable for the vehicle. After the necessary approval, the data logging device is ordered / purchased from the device module 102. The data logging device is suitable for at least one test vehicle. For the operation of the data logging device, the third member of the team selects the appropriate firmware from the firmware module 104 to interface with the vehicle of a specific make. If the specific firmware is not available, the third member approaches the firmware team within the community through the interface module 116. Through the interface module 116, the firmware is made and installed in the data logging device to operate with the vehicle. Now, data is recorded from the vehicle through the data logging device over a period of days or months. Now, the third member uses the data module 106 to store and pre-process the recorded data until certain patterns are understood. Now, the data is either processed by available plug-ins or by specific plug-ins made by approaching experts (either inside the organization or outside) through the interface module 116. The processed data is combined with existing engine models, data-based statistical models, catalyst models, etc. available in the analysis module 108. Finally, a solution for emission prediction and control is developed, which is available in the solution module 110. The working group approaches designers through the interface module 116 to design a user interface for the emission prediction. The designer uses display module 112 for the user interface. At the same time, a colleague provides suggestions for adding additional features to the emissions prediction.

[0020] After the emission forecast has been developed, the emission forecast is tested in a virtual environment within the solution framework using an exhaust model and a catalyst model. The emission forecast is then implemented in the vehicle using one or more sub-modules of the digital infrastructure module 114. In addition, the concept of the emission forecast is monetized by reaching out to potential customers via the business module 118. The business module 118 also helps manage the costs associated with the development of the emission forecast as a solution. The emission forecast solution is also available as an application in the solution module 110 for distribution. Any third party interested in the same solution must pay the required fee and implement it in the vehicle. This is just an example to explain the working of the present invention. This is applicable to many other types of solutions related to vehicles using a single solution framework, but is not limited to solutions generated from vehicles.

[0021] Figure 2 The method for developing and distributing mobility solutions according to the present invention is illustrated. The method includes the following steps, step 202, including: establishing a connection between a server 124 and a terminal device 130. Step 204 includes: presenting multiple modules 120 in the terminal device 130. The multiple modules 120 can be accessed by an input unit of the terminal device 130, and each of the multiple modules 120 can be used alone or in combination. Step 206 includes: developing vehicle-related solutions through multiple modules 120. Step 208 includes: storing and distributing the developed solutions through the server 124. The multiple modules 120 are selected from the group including the following: device module 102, firmware module 104, data module 106, analysis module 108, solution module 110, display module 112, digital infrastructure module 114, interface module 116 and business module 118.

[0022] The device module 102 enables selection and access to at least one of a device and a module of the device that helps generate data required for developing at least one solution. The device module 102 enables acquisition of devices through a source selected from a proprietary source and an e-commerce source (third party) linked to the server 124. The firmware module 104 enables at least one device selected from the device module 102 to interface and communicate with the vehicle and digital infrastructure module 114.

[0023] The data module 106 enables pre-processing of raw data generated by the at least one device. The raw data and the pre-processed data can be used to develop at least one solution. The analysis module 108 enables selective analysis of data received from at least one of the device module 102 and the data module 106. The analysis module 108 is selected from at least one of artificial intelligence (AI), deep learning (DL), machine learning (ML), behavioral science (BS), etc. The solution module 110 provides a repository of at least one problem, partially solved problem or ongoing solution, and the developed solution. The display module 112 enables development of a UI for the developed solution.

[0024] The digital infrastructure module 114 enables implementation and deployment of the developed solution. The engagement module 116 enables access, connection and communication with communities, networks for available / required data for developing at least one solution, and the business module 118 enables monetization of the developed solution.

[0025] The method also includes accessing the server 124 by at least one solution requester and a solution provider. The solution requester posts a problem using the solution module 110, and the solution provider solves the problem using the plurality of modules 120. The solution provider solves the problem either independently or in collaboration with at least one second solution provider.

[0026] According to the present invention, the solution framework provides a platform for developing and supplying solutions through a portal based on an online application store. The principle difference lies in the context of coverage, multiple platforms, and the orchestration of the various parts of the solution framework in the field of vehicle mobility. The present invention is an enabler for the open source community to contribute to mobility-related issues, and enables small-scale companies or startups to scale, and large-scale companies to diversify into platform and solution businesses in the connected world. The present invention is a building block around the connected mobility ecosystem and provides a platform for implementing solution development. The idea of ​​the platform is to provide building blocks through each module, and thus enable developers or users who access the framework to build solutions that meet mobility and other needs.

[0027] It should be understood that the embodiments explained in the above description are merely illustrative and do not limit the scope of the invention. Many such embodiments and other modifications and changes in the embodiments explained in this description are contemplated. The scope of the invention is limited only by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A system (100) for collaborative development and distribution of solutions, the system (100) comprising: Server(124); at least one terminal device (130) connectable to the server (124) via at least one of a wired connection and a wireless connection, and at least one processor (122) configured to establish communication between the server (124) and the at least one terminal device (130) after authentication, wherein the at least one processor (122) and the server (124) are configured to provide a framework for developing and distributing vehicle-related solutions, and are adapted to present the plurality of modules (120) in the at least one terminal device (130) based on an access request, The plurality of modules (120) may be displayed on a display interface of the at least one terminal device (130), wherein the at least one processor (122) and the server (124) are further configured to execute instructions generated from the plurality of modules (120), the instructions being for i) retrieving at least one problem from a solution module in the plurality of modules (120), and ii) developing a solution to the at least one retrieved problem, wherein the instructions and the solution are generated by a user of the at least one terminal device (130) in communication with the server (124), wherein the plurality of modules (120) are accessible via an input unit of the at least one terminal device (130), and each of the plurality of modules (120) can be used individually or in combination, wherein the at least one processor (122) and the server (124) are further configured to store the developed solution in the server for distribution, wherein the solution module includes a plurality of problems, ongoing solutions to problems in the plurality of problems, and a repository of developed solutions to problems in the plurality of problems, and The questions among the plurality of questions are posted to the solution module by a user of the at least one terminal device.

2. The system (100) of claim 1, wherein the plurality of modules (120) further comprises at least one of: a device module (102), a firmware module (104), a data module (106), an analysis module (108), a display module (112), a digital infrastructure module (114), a bonding module (116), and a business module (120).

3. The system (100) of claim 2, wherein the device module (102) comprises details of at least one device and / or its modules configured to collect or generate data required for at least one solution, and the device module (102) is further configured to provide access to the at least one device and / or its modules through a proprietary source and / or an e-commerce source, wherein the firmware module (104) is configured to provide data required for the at least one device selected from the device module (102) to operate with the vehicle and the digital infrastructure module (114), wherein the data module (106) is configured to store and pre-process raw data generated by the at least one device, the raw data and the pre-processed data being available to the user of the at least one terminal device (130) for developing the at least one solution, wherein the analysis module (108) is configured to provide at least one submodule for selectively analyzing the raw data and / or pre-processed data received from at least one of the device module (102) and the data module (106), wherein the at least one submodule is selected from at least one of artificial intelligence (AI), deep learning (DL), machine learning (ML), and behavioral science (BS), wherein the display module (112) is configured to provide a plurality of tools for developing a user interface (UI) of the at least one solution, wherein the digital infrastructure module (114) is configured to provide a plurality of sub-modules of connectivity required for secure implementation and deployment of the developed solution for the vehicle, wherein the engagement module (116) is configured to enable communication and interaction between the device module (102), the firmware module (104), the data module (106), the analysis module (108), the solution module (110), the display module (112), the digital infrastructure module (114), and the business module (118) and at least one other user, and The business module (118) is configured to enable discovery of customers and monetization of developed solutions.

4. The system (100) of claim 2, wherein the system (100) is used by a solution requester and a solution provider, the solution requester using an interface to post a problem, the problem then being stored in the solution module (110), and the solution provider using the plurality of modules (120) to solve the problem, wherein the solution provider solves the problem independently and / or in collaboration with at least one second solution provider.

5. The system (100) of claim 4, wherein the solution requester and the solution provider are selected from at least one of the same organization and completely different organizations.

6. A method for collaborative development and distribution of solutions to vehicle problems, the method comprising the steps of: establishing a connection between the server (124) and the terminal device (130) after authentication; electronically transmitting electronic module data from the server to the terminal device, the electronic module data corresponding to a plurality of modules, the plurality of modules including a solution module having a plurality of problems associated with a vehicle, ongoing solutions to problems in the plurality of problems, and a repository of developed solutions to problems in the plurality of problems; Presenting the plurality of modules (120) in the terminal device (130), the plurality of modules (120) being accessible by an input unit of the terminal device (130), and each of the plurality of modules (120) being usable individually or in combination, the presenting comprising presenting at least one problem from the plurality of problems from the solution module; developing a solution related to the vehicle through the plurality of modules (120) to solve the at least one problem presented; storing the developed solution in the server as electronic solution data of the solution module; electronically distributing the electronic solution data to the vehicle via the server (124); as well as The distributed solution is implemented in the vehicle to solve the at least one problem.

7. The method of claim 6, wherein the plurality of modules (120) further comprises at least one of: a device module (102), a firmware module (104), a data module (106), an analysis module (108), a display module (112), a digital infrastructure module (114), a bonding module (116), and a business module (118).

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising: selecting and accessing at least one device and / or its module for generating data required for at least one solution through the device module (102), the device module (102) enabling acquisition of the at least one device and / or its module through a proprietary source and / or an e-commerce source linked to the server (124), enabling the at least one device selected from the device module (102) to interface with and communicate with the vehicle and the digital infrastructure module (114) through the firmware module (104), storing and preprocessing raw data generated by the at least one device by the data module (106), wherein the raw data and the preprocessed data can be used to develop the at least one solution, The raw data and / or pre-processed data received from at least one of the device module (102) and the data module (106) are selectively analyzed by the analysis module (108), wherein the analysis module (108) is selected from at least one of artificial intelligence (AI), deep learning (DL), machine learning (ML), and behavioral science (BS), and the solution module (110) provides a repository of at least one problem, partially solved problem, and developed solution, developing a user interface (UI) for the developed solution through the display module (112), implementing and deploying said developed solution through said digital infrastructure module (114), accessing, connecting and communicating with available data, communities, networks through the engagement module (116) for developing the at least one solution, and The developed solution is monetized through the business module (118).

9. The method of claim 7, further comprising: The server (124) is accessed by at least one solution requester and a solution provider, the solution requester uses the solution module (110) to post a problem, and the solution provider uses the plurality of modules (120) to solve the problem, Wherein the solution provider solves the problem independently and / or in collaboration with at least one second solution provider.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein the solution requester and the solution provider are selected from at least one of the same organization and completely different organizations.

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