Method and information technology system for unlocking a vehicle function

Abstract

This invention relates to a method for unlocking vehicle functions, wherein the vehicle functions are provided via hardware of the vehicle (1), which is configured by software, and wherein the vehicle functions are provided by the hardware when the hardware is configured according to a release configuration. The method according to the invention is characterized in that: - a user (2) of the vehicle (1) logs into a central computing device (3) using a user account; - the user (2) binds their wallet (4) to the user account; - the central computing device (3) initiates the minting of NFTs, wherein a release configuration is allocated as a digital asset to the NFT; - the central computing device (3) allocates the NFT to the user (2)'s wallet (4) when a specific event occurs; - the central computing device (3) reads the NFT stored in the wallet (4); and - the central computing device (3) obtains the corresponding release configuration for the NFT stored in the wallet (4) and transmits it to the vehicle (1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for unlocking vehicle functions of the type defined in more detail in the preamble of claim 1, and an information technology system having a central computing device and a vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicles are becoming increasingly digitized. As a result, mechanical steering systems, braking systems activated by pedal position, and fuel pumps are being replaced by electronic control systems. This is also known as drive-by-wire. Furthermore, new driver assistance features are being offered to enhance safety and comfort, such as lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and the ability to watch movies, make video calls, or play audiobooks on in-vehicle displays.

[0003] Here, various vehicle functions require the installation of specific hardware components within the vehicle. During the ordering process, specific hardware components can be installed, typically allowing for a variety of functions, some of which the customer usually only purchases out of pocket. The remaining functions, those not purchased, are then disabled in the vehicle manufactured for the customer via software configuration. However, since the necessary hardware has already been installed, this allows these functions to be enabled later via software. Therefore, for example, by reconfiguring the vehicle software, higher engine power can be temporarily or permanently enabled, or seat heating can be scheduled for winter months.

[0004] To manage vehicle features used in a vehicle, users need to interact with the vehicle manufacturer, for example, via a central portal (e.g., a server operated by the vehicle manufacturer), which forms the interface between the user's account and their vehicle. In this way, users can connect their vehicle to their user account and personalize their reservations for vehicle features. However, the vehicle manufacturer retains control over the reserved features, which can negatively impact the user's decision-making process when adding features. Therefore, it is preferable to transfer control of the reservable vehicle features to the customer.

[0005] Certain digital currencies, also known as cryptocurrencies, or their underlying blockchains such as the Ethereum blockchain, Binance Smart Chain, or Solana, allow the generation of so-called non-fungible tokens (NFTs). The generation of NFTs is also called minting. Specifically, the minting and / or initiation of transactions for corresponding NFTs are controlled by so-called smart contracts. A smart contract is program code written into the blockchain, and the cryptographic network managing the blockchain automatically executes this program code based on the information written into the blockchain. While the units of corresponding cryptocurrencies are divisible, i.e., "fungible," each NFT is unique, i.e., "non-fungible." Here, NFTs represent specific assets, particularly digital assets such as image files, video files, audio files, text files, etc. Physical assets can also be allocated to NFTs in the form of "proof of ownership," such as houses, vehicles, sneakers, etc. Information describing or referencing the asset allocated to an NFT is typically written into the NFT's metadata. Metadata can be stored in blocks within the blockchain itself, or preferably in a storage location outside the blockchain. Blockchains can be centrally or decentralized. Here, so-called nonfungible token standards, such as ERC721 or ERC1155, define how to construct and process the corresponding metadata.

[0006] Furthermore, so-called hybrid smart contracts are known, which associate program code running on the blockchain with information and computations available outside the blockchain. Here, a blockchain oracle is used as the interface. For example, Chainlink provides such services for connecting the blockchain to external systems, enabling the execution of smart contracts based on real-world inputs and outputs.

[0007] DE 10 2022 000 646 A1 discloses a method for minting and using vehicle-related non-fungible tokens (NFTs). This patent document describes the provision of vehicle functionality based on NFTs. For this purpose, vehicle data is collected during vehicle operation and used to mint NFTs. Thus, the vehicle itself participates in the NFT minting process. For example, NFTs can be minted during vehicle manufacturing, repair, maintenance, and sale. This makes it possible to track the condition or wear and tear of the vehicle using NFTs. Vehicle-related NFTs can also be minted when the vehicle reaches specific milestones, such as achieving set running time, mileage, or time spent at specific locations. Therefore, so-called "achievements" can be accomplished through the vehicle, thereby making vehicle use more attractive to users by providing gamified functionality. Users can track their personal performance using the NFTs minted upon achieving achievements and display them as proof to others.

[0008] Furthermore, US 2022 / 0383295 A1 discloses a so-called NFT asset repository. This patent aims to address the problem that NFTs are typically associated with digital assets (also known as "Digital Assets"), but interaction with these digital assets is impossible in the real world. The repository constitutes an electronic device in the form of a computing device capable of downloading the digital assets associated with the NFTs via the internet and outputting them through built-in output tools within the repository. Thus, for example, digital artwork can be displayed on a display device, or audio content can be played through an integrated speaker. Here, the repository has its own wallet, allowing the corresponding NFT or digital asset to be uniquely allocated to a specific repository. Owners of such repositories can exchange their NFTs along with the corresponding digital assets, for example, by exchanging the repository itself, or by executing corresponding NFT transactions on the underlying blockchain.

[0009] Furthermore, US 2023 / 0071093 A1 describes a system and method for consistently setting up and transferring NFT assets across multiple platforms based on the use of smart contracts. This patent document describes an intermediary mechanism for utilizing various NFT marketplaces. Here, the smart contract used to mint NFTs includes processable conditions from multiple different NFT marketplaces. Additionally, the patent document describes a conversion module capable of defining the conditions of the smart contract in natural language and converting them into machine-readable code. This improves the user-friendliness of smart contract writing for users with little or no programming knowledge. Summary of the Invention

[0010] The purpose of this invention is to provide a method and means by which the interaction between a user and their vehicle can be improved.

[0011] According to the invention, this objective is achieved by a method for unlocking vehicle functions having the features of claim 1. Advantageous designs and improvements, as well as the information technology system for performing the method, are derived from the relevant claims.

[0012] A general method for unlocking vehicle functions, wherein vehicle functions are provided via vehicle hardware configured by software, and wherein the vehicle functions are provided by the hardware when the hardware is configured according to a release configuration / enable configuration / activation configuration, a further development according to the invention being:

[0013] - Vehicle users log in to the central computing device using their user accounts;

[0014] - Users link their wallets to their user accounts;

[0015] - The central computing device initiates the minting of NFTs, in which the release configuration is allocated to NFTs as digital assets;

[0016] - The central computing device distributes NFTs to users' wallets when specific events occur;

[0017] - Central computing devices read NFTs stored in wallets; and

[0018] - The central computing device retrieves the appropriate release configuration for the NFT stored in the wallet and transmits it to the vehicle.

[0019] The method according to the present invention specifies the acquisition of vehicle functions based on the occurrence of events and their transmission to the vehicle for use. Therefore, this provides an alternative to the paid purchase of vehicle functions. Here, users can actively participate to cause corresponding events to occur, thereby selectively acquiring the desired vehicle functions. In this way, the process of acquiring vehicle functions is "gamified".

[0020] Various events can be considered here to determine when to mint the corresponding NFT and when to distribute the corresponding vehicle features to vehicles. The term "event" explicitly excludes situations where NFTs or vehicle features are purchased for a fee. Besides events that users can influence, events that cannot be influenced can also be considered, such as the occurrence of special environmental factors or the anniversary of a vehicle manufacturer. For example, an NFT could be minted on the 100th anniversary of a vehicle manufacturer, and anniversary vehicle features could be distributed to vehicles belonging to the vehicle manufacturer or users participating in this method.

[0021] There are several different ways a central computing device can facilitate the distribution of corresponding NFTs to user wallets after a given event occurs. This will be explained in more detail below. Typically, it's possible to first allocate the NFT to the manufacturer's wallet, and then the vehicle manufacturer transfers it to the user's wallet, or to allocate the corresponding NFT directly to the user's wallet during minting.

[0022] Here, vehicle function refers to any conceivable function that can be executed by software adjustments to hardware already installed in the vehicle. In this case, it could be, for example, special graphical elements of a graphical user interface, such as a specially designed tachometer for a combination instrument cluster designed as a display device, a unique simulated engine sound output from an electric motor via external speakers, enhanced engine power, comfort functions such as seat heating and massage functions, and lighting functions such as special light patterns for ambient lighting.

[0023] The central computing device is a cloud server or server cluster, particularly managed by vehicle manufacturers. Users have individual user accounts, uniquely referential via usernames and protected by personal passwords. Here, a user's vehicle is linked to their user account, allowing the central computing device to uniquely allocate between the user and the corresponding vehicle. For this purpose, the vehicle is linked to the user account via a unique identifier (e.g., serial number, vehicle identification number, etc.). Furthermore, the user has a wallet for cryptocurrency or NFTs. The user then links the wallet to their user account so the central computing device can verify the wallet's contents. In its simplest case, this simply means the user stores their wallet's public address, such as a so-called "public key," with the central computing device. Here, the infrastructure operated by the vehicle manufacturer—the platform provided on the central computing device—also has integrated wallet functionality. Therefore, vehicle manufacturers can not only have their own manufacturer wallets, but they can also allocate their own wallets for each user account. This lowers the barrier to entry for non-technically savvy users of the method according to the invention, as users are therefore not required to create their own wallets.

[0024] To enable a specific vehicle configuration, the vehicle manufacturer develops a corresponding release configuration. A release configuration is a set of program code that, when executed on the vehicle's computing unit, allows the computing unit or hardware to be adjusted so that vehicle functions available via that hardware become available. In the simplest case, this involves changing a bit signature, such as from 0 to 1 or from a negative to a positive value. The vehicle manufacturer can provide release configurations tailored to various hardware combinations. For each release configuration, the central computing device triggers the minting of the corresponding NFT. For example, the timing of NFT minting can be chosen so that the NFT is minted precisely when the user obtains the corresponding release configuration from the vehicle manufacturer through an event. There are various ways the central computing device can trigger the allocation of the corresponding NFT to the user's wallet. The central computing device or vehicle manufacturer may have its own manufacturer wallet, to which the NFT is allocated during minting. Subsequently, the NFT is transferred from the manufacturer wallet to the user's wallet. Alternatively, the user's wallet address or public key may be directly specified during the minting process, so the newly minted NFT initially appears in the user's wallet.

[0025] After acquiring vehicle functionality, a user can activate it within their vehicle. This can be done automatically upon acquisition or manually initiated by the user. For this purpose, users can utilize various human-machine interfaces, such as the vehicle's own user interface, touchscreen displays, mobile devices connected to the vehicle (especially via a user account), such as smartphones, or browser-based access interfaces, such as internet-connected desktop computers. The user can then log into the central computing device via their user account, select their vehicle in the corresponding input field, and activate specific vehicle functions, for example, by checking a checkmark. The respective computing units used for this purpose—such as the in-vehicle computing unit, the user's smartphone, or the desktop computer—send information to the central computing device via the corresponding application programming interface (API), indicating that the corresponding vehicle function should be activated.

[0026] At different times, such as when a user logs into their account through a portal or each time the vehicle is started, the central computing device can read the user's wallet and thus record the NFTs stored therein. Correspondingly, the central computing device adjusts the output mask to display currently available vehicle functions. This allows the user to turn acquired vehicle functions on and off as needed. After the user activates a corresponding vehicle function, the central computing device sends a corresponding signal to the vehicle to activate that function. For this purpose, the central computing device can, for example, transmit the release configuration program code itself along with instructions to execute the corresponding program code to the appropriate computing unit in the vehicle.

[0027] All existing or future blockchain technologies and the cryptocurrencies thereby available can be used to provide the method according to the invention. The blockchain can be centrally or decentralized.

[0028] In its simplest case, an NFT contains only a unique identifier, such as a unique token ID. A central computing device can maintain a file storing the relationships between the NFT and its corresponding vehicle features. Therefore, the central computing device can read the user's wallet, obtain the unique token ID, and see in the file which vehicle features the user can therefore use. The central computing device then prompts the activation of the corresponding vehicle feature in the user's vehicle. In this scenario, there's no need to assign a reference to the digital asset to the NFT, as the central computing device already possesses this information.

[0029] Herein, the method according to the present invention specifies:

[0030] -NFTs contain digital assets; or

[0031] Digital assets are stored in centralized or decentralized network storage, where NFTs contain references to the digital asset.

[0032] Therefore, it's possible to bind the corresponding vehicle functionality to NFTs in different ways. The corresponding program code could then be directly written into the corresponding block representing the NFT in the blockchain used. Alternatively, it's also possible to store the corresponding program code and any necessary media files in a centralized or decentralized network storage, and only integrate a reference to the corresponding storage location into the blockchain. Such a reference is also called a URI, such as a URL. This allows digital assets to be stored "on-chain" or "off-chain."

[0033] Specifically, the central network storage can be a server used as a central computing device, or a server in a server cluster.

[0034] Distributed or decentralized network storage can be, for example, the so-called "InterPlanetary File System" (IPFS). In this case, it is a protocol and network used to form a peer-to-peer storage for files, such as so-called hypermedia files. The advantage of using decentralized network storage compared to centralized network storage is that decentralized network storage is characterized by a lower probability of failure. Thus, due to environmental factors such as network attacks, maintenance, power outages, or floods, the risk of at least temporary failure of a central node is high. During this period, it is impossible to retrieve any digital assets from the central network storage. However, with decentralized network storage, relevant information is stored on multiple nodes, so when one or a few nodes fail, information can still be obtained from other nodes.

[0035] Here, the "allocation" of release configurations to NFTs should be understood in an abstract way. Multiple allocation models can be considered. As mentioned earlier, the corresponding program code can be directly written to the blockchain or stored in the corresponding network storage and referenced via a link. Alternatively, vehicle manufacturers may use personal and unique identifiers to mark different vehicle functions or release configurations. For example, this could be an ID. This identifier could then be written in plaintext to the blockchain itself or to metadata in the network storage. The actual program code can then be stored in protected storage on a central computing device, inaccessible to the public. When the central computing device reads an NFT from a user's wallet, it also reads the unique identifier of the release configuration and can retrieve the digital data required to activate the vehicle function in the vehicle—specifically, the aforementioned program code—from the protected storage.

[0036] Furthermore, the method according to the invention specifies that the release configuration is distributed to the NFT in an encrypted form using cryptographic techniques. The central computing device, after reading the user's wallet and obtaining the release configuration, decrypts the release configuration and transmits the decrypted release configuration to the vehicle. This further improves the integrity of the underlying program code of the release configuration and any media files, as well as network security when executing the method according to the invention. In this case, verified cryptographic encryption techniques can be employed, such as signature-based encryption using asymmetric key pairs. Thus, the program code of the release configuration can be cryptographically encrypted and directly written to the blockchain, written to NFT metadata, or stored in a corresponding centralized or decentralized network storage referenced by metadata. Therefore, it also resists the "theft" of the program code by third parties. To decrypt the encrypted release configuration, the central computing device needs the corresponding private key, which it already possesses as the cryptographic organization of the release configuration program code. Here, encryption can also be used for communication between the central computing device and the vehicle, thus, in a broader sense, the decrypted release configuration is re-encrypted and then decrypted again in the vehicle. This also prevents data interception during data exchange between the central computing device and the vehicle.

[0037] Here, an advantageous improvement to the method according to the invention defines an event as an event related to the vehicle. Therefore, these events can be considered as so-called "achievements." Thus, specific accomplishments can be achieved using the vehicle, such as reaching a specific running time, traveling a specific total mileage, stopping the vehicle at a specific location (especially within a specified time window), obtaining a certain amount of electrical energy from a specific charging station operator, etc.

[0038] Here, the corresponding event would occur at least once on every vehicle in the vehicle manufacturer's fleet. However, it is also conceivable that a specific event would occur only once, thus creating competition among the vehicle manufacturer's vehicle users. This would incentivize users to be the first to achieve the corresponding event, granting that user exclusive access to the NFT and the vehicle features allocated to it. It is also conceivable that such a one-off event is defined for a specific group of vehicles, such as a specific model series. For example, when a new model is released, the first user to drive that model for 100,000 kilometers would receive a specific NFT along with the specific vehicle features allocated to them.

[0039] Here, the events of when NFTs are minted and when vehicle features are distributed can be publicly disclosed by the vehicle manufacturer. Specific "achievements" within these "achievements" can also be hidden, allowing vehicle features to be distributed in a surprising manner. This provides greater incentive for participation in the method according to the invention, thereby further improving the interaction between the user and their vehicle.

[0040] Specifically, NFTs can be distributed or cast and distributed when vehicles are operated in a particularly gentle manner, such as reducing vehicle wear and / or exhibiting particularly defensive driving behavior. This extends the lifespan of the vehicle and protects the environment by reducing resource consumption.

[0041] According to another advantageous design of the method according to the invention, the central computing device triggers the minting of the NFT at a first point in time before the event occurs, and prompts the distribution of the NFT to the user's wallet at a later second point in time after the event. In other words, the NFT can therefore be minted independently of the occurrence of the corresponding event. This enables the distribution of vehicle features and corresponding NFTs on a quarterly basis. A quarter can have any time period, such as a year, a quarter, a month, or a fraction or multiple thereof. Furthermore, quarters of different lengths can be introduced for different NFTs and corresponding vehicle features. In particular, for NFTs that are distributable quarterly, the vehicle manufacturer discloses the corresponding conditions for the occurrence of the event and the associated vehicle feature before or during the start of the quarter. Since the corresponding NFT is only available for a limited time, this further incentivizes vehicle users to make efforts to bring about the occurrence of the corresponding event. This further improves the user's interaction with the vehicle. It is also possible that the vehicle manufacturer only discloses the conditions for the occurrence of the corresponding event, but not the vehicle features that are thereby available, or vice versa. This creates a sense of mystery, which, due to human curiosity, further enhances the incentive to acquire the corresponding NFT.

[0042] It is also possible that some NFTs and corresponding vehicle functions are minted quarterly, while other NFTs are minted when the corresponding event occurs. Therefore, another advantageous design of the method according to the invention specifies that a central computing device triggers the minting of an NFT and distributes that NFT to a user's wallet when the event occurs. However, it must be decided beforehand whether to mint quarterly or mint specific NFTs when the event occurs.

[0043] According to another advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the vehicle collects vehicle information and transmits it to a central computing device, which then compares the vehicle information with at least one condition. Once at least one piece of vehicle information meets the condition, the central computing device then identifies the occurrence of an event. In other words, here, the central computing device acts as a central agency for checking whether the corresponding condition is met and whether the corresponding event has occurred. This implementation has the advantages of being simple and centralized; however, its disadvantage is that the control over checking whether an event has occurred is given to the central computing device, and therefore to the vehicle manufacturer.

[0044] To collect vehicle information, a vehicle can acquire sensor data from internal sensors and read information from control devices. The vehicle can also acquire information from external sources, such as the internet. For this purpose, the vehicle can have a corresponding telecommunications unit that allows the vehicle to connect to the internet via mobile communication. In this way, the vehicle can acquire information related to fulfilling certain conditions, such as the vehicle's runtime, mileage parameters (e.g., total mileage driven), and the timely execution of a certain number of maintenance tasks (e.g., completing ten scheduled maintenance services).

[0045] Once the central computing device identifies a specific vehicle or user meeting specific conditions, thus triggering an event to mint or transfer the NFT, the central computing device will either prompt the minting and transfer of the NFT, or, if the NFT has already been minted, prompt its transfer from the manufacturer's wallet to the user's wallet. To do this, the central computing device initiates a corresponding transaction on the cryptographic network on which the NFT is based.

[0046] Here, another advantageous design of the method of the present invention specifies that at least the NFT is allocated to a wallet, in particular the minting and distribution of NFTs, is triggered by a hybrid smart contract, wherein the vehicle and / or service provider collects vehicle information and transmits it to a blockchain oracle, wherein the blockchain oracle transmits the vehicle information to the hybrid smart contract, and wherein the hybrid smart contract includes at least one condition describing when the event occurs based on the vehicle information.

[0047] Therefore, it is possible that control over checking whether corresponding conditions are met to trigger corresponding events will be moved from the central computing device, and thus from the vehicle manufacturer. In other words, the corresponding hybrid smart contract checks whether the corresponding conditions for the event are met, thereby automatically triggering the transfer or minting of the corresponding NFT. To this end, a corresponding hybrid smart contract can be assigned to the user's wallet, which automatically triggers the minting or transfer process after the event occurs. Here, the blockchain oracle acts as the link between the entity collecting vehicle information and the hybrid smart contract. Thus, the vehicle itself can transmit the collected vehicle information to the blockchain oracle via the corresponding application programming interface through the telecommunications unit, and the blockchain oracle then forwards the relevant information to the hybrid smart contract (or blockchain), enabling these contracts to check whether the underlying conditions are met. However, vehicle information can also be collected by service providers. Such service providers are, for example, charging station operators. Such charging station operators can collect information on which user has acquired how much electricity within a certain period of time, and, for example, inform the blockchain oracle that a user has charged the amount of electricity required to trigger a certain event. It could also be, for example, a gas station operator or car wash operator, which transmits the number of times a car wash or gas station has been used.

[0048] Information collected by blockchain oracles to describe the real world can be incorporated into the NFT minting process. For example, on a rainy day, a digital image of a bear wearing a raincoat and holding an umbrella (instead of a snail wearing a sun hat) could be used as the background image for a vehicle menu and allocated as a digital asset to an NFT.

[0049] According to another advantageous design of the method according to the invention, during casting, particularly via a hybrid smart contract, a vehicle-specific expiration condition is assigned to the NFT. Upon occurrence of this expiration condition, the vehicle hardware is reconfigured from the release configuration to a different configuration, particularly to a standard configuration. In other words, a validity period can be attached to vehicle functionality acquired through a specific event. Thus, the vehicle functionality upon which the corresponding NFT is based can be automatically withdrawn from the user after another event occurs. The vehicle functionality provided by configuring the vehicle hardware through the release configuration automatically becomes unavailable upon hardware reconfiguration.

[0050] Here, the corresponding failure condition can be assigned to the NFT's metadata, for example. The central computing device can read this metadata and thus trigger a check to see if the failure condition is met, or it can check the failure condition itself. Either the vehicle transmits its vehicle information to the central computing device, which then checks if the failure condition is met, or if the failure condition is met, the central computing device sends the corresponding reconfiguration signal to the vehicle. It is also possible that the vehicle checks the failure condition itself. For this purpose, the central computing device can transmit the failure condition to the vehicle. It is also common for the vehicle to read the NFT's metadata itself and thus obtain the corresponding failure condition. Whether the failure condition is met is then checked by the vehicle or the corresponding onboard computing unit. Hardware reconfiguration can also be triggered simply by removing the NFT required to enable vehicle configuration from the user's wallet (especially automatically triggered by a hybrid smart contract), which will be further explained below.

[0051] According to another advantageous design of the method according to the invention, the vehicle and / or service provider collects vehicle information and transmits it to a blockchain oracle, wherein the blockchain oracle passes the vehicle information to a hybrid smart contract for the corresponding NFT, wherein an expiration condition additionally stipulates that the NFT is invalidated upon the occurrence of the expiration condition. Therefore, not only is the hardware of the corresponding vehicle reconfigured, but the user's access to the release configuration on which the vehicle function is based is also prohibited. Since the corresponding user no longer "owns" the corresponding NFT for the vehicle function, the corresponding release configuration cannot be transferred back to the vehicle for use. To invalidate the NFT, it can be destroyed. "Destroying" an NFT means transferring the corresponding NFT to a wallet without access. Because information cannot usually be deleted from the blockchain, it is necessary to transfer the corresponding NFT to a wallet that neither the user nor the vehicle (especially anyone) has access to. Thus, these NFTs can no longer be used. Alternatively, the digital asset itself or the corresponding metadata of the NFT may contain program code readable by a central computing device or the corresponding vehicle, which not only causes the vehicle hardware to be reconfigured but also causes the release configuration to be deleted after reconfiguration.

[0052] According to another advantageous design of the method according to the invention, a central computing device maintains a database with at least two digital assets and determines which digital asset to allocate to the NFT based on boundary conditions. This allows different vehicle functions to be allocated to a user and their vehicle for the satisfaction of a certain boundary condition or the occurrence of a specific event. This further improves user interaction because it is therefore impossible to predetermine which vehicle function a user will gain through the occurrence of an event. This can incentivize users to use their vehicles more intensively so that they can also obtain other corresponding vehicle functions, for example, through the occurrence of another event or the recurrence of the same event. For example, a specific NFT can be minted every 10,000 kilometers driven, and then vehicle functions can be allocated to that NFT from a function group consisting of 10 vehicle functions. Therefore, a user must drive 100,000 kilometers to activate all vehicle functions in that function group. It is also conceivable that vehicle functions can be "lotteryed" multiple times in a random manner, thus requiring even more kilometers to be driven.

[0053] Preferably, at least one of the above boundary conditions is:

[0054] -Vehicle configuration; and / or

[0055] - At least one current value for vehicle information.

[0056] Different vehicles can have different configuration variations. Here, specific vehicle functions are more or less suitable for output in a particular vehicle. For example, if a particular vehicle has a Dolby Atmos sound system, then vehicle functions using Dolby Atmos are applicable. Therefore, preferably, the central computing device facilitates the allocation of Dolby Atmos-using vehicle functions to that corresponding vehicle. This can be correspondingly transferred to other configuration variations, such as built-in massage functions, specific high-quality displays with specific high resolutions, specific optional lighting, specific engine power, etc.

[0057] Similarly, the central computing device can determine which vehicle features to allocate as digital assets to an NFT based on the current values ​​of the relevant vehicle information. For example, vehicle information could consist of the current number of occupants. If, for example, there are five occupants in the vehicle at the time of the event, the vehicle features allocated to the NFT will differ from those allocated if, for example, there is only one occupant. To this end, the current values ​​of any conceivable vehicle information or multiple vehicle information can be queried, such as vehicle speed, outside temperature, current weather conditions, and the frequency of use of specific vehicle features. For example, once a user has driven their vehicle 100,000 kilometers, an NFT can be minted for the vehicle, where the vehicle checks whether it is more frequently used to listen to the radio or play music via Bluetooth-connected devices. Other vehicle features will be allocated as digital assets to an NFT based on which statement holds true.

[0058] Preferably, digital assets are assigned uniqueness levels, and then grouped according to their uniqueness levels. A uniqueness level is a hypothetical value, for example, between 0 and 1000. The higher the hypothetical value, the more unique the corresponding digital asset. Uniqueness can be associated with the ease or difficulty of a particular event occurring, thus assigning digital assets with higher uniqueness levels to events that are particularly difficult to achieve. For example, a digital asset with a low uniqueness level might be assigned to an NFT for the "10,000 km traveled" event, while a digital asset with a high uniqueness level might be assigned to an NFT for the "500,000 km traveled" event.

[0059] Classifying digital assets according to their uniqueness level or corresponding group has two advantages. First, it creates a greater incentive to intensively use one's vehicle by randomly assigning vehicle features based on the fulfillment of specific events, thereby also acquiring other vehicle features within that specific uniqueness group. Second, it generates an incentive to acquire digital assets with exceptionally high uniqueness levels. Since acquiring such digital assets is more difficult, owning the corresponding NFT and its underlying vehicle features is accompanied by higher reputation or prestige, further increasing the incentive for users to acquire them. Users can thus be particularly proud to own rare NFTs along with rare vehicle features. This also further improves user interaction.

[0060] The vehicle's functionality and corresponding release configurations, along with the distribution of NFTs and the widespread tradability of NFTs through corresponding crypto markets, also present vehicle users with the possibility of making money. For example, vehicle users can strive to acquire particularly rare NFTs and then resell them for profit. This represents a completely new and unprecedented feature.

[0061] According to the present invention, in an information technology system comprising a central computing device and a vehicle, the central computing device and the vehicle are configured to perform the above-described method. The vehicle can be any road vehicle, such as a car, truck, van, bus, etc. Generally, it can also be a railway vehicle, a water vehicle, or an aircraft. In particular, communication between the vehicle and the central computing device can be wireless. For this purpose, the central computing device can be connected to a network, particularly the Internet. The vehicle can have a telecommunications unit, commonly referred to as a telematics unit. This telematics unit enables the vehicle's onboard electronic equipment to connect to the Internet via a mobile network. Users can also possess mobile terminal devices, such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, wearable devices, etc., which can be connected to the vehicle via wired or wireless means, and / or indirectly connected to the central computing device via a user account. Further, the central computing device is connected to a cryptocurrency network capable of minting and sending corresponding NFTs. Therefore, the central computing device can constitute a computing node of this cryptocurrency network, or establish a communication connection with such a cryptocurrency network. Here, this can be any conceivable known cryptocurrency network or cryptocurrency. It can also be a type of cryptocurrency that is currently unknown and unprogrammed. In particular, this allows for the redefinition and setting of smart contract standards or non-fungible token standards specifically tailored to the implementation of the methods according to the invention. Attached Figure Description

[0062] Other advantageous embodiments of the method for unlocking vehicle functions according to the invention also arise from the embodiments described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0063] in:

[0064] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the parties involved in implementing the method for unlocking vehicle functions according to the present invention is shown; and

[0065] Figure 2 It shows Figure 1 A detailed diagram of the participating parties is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0066] The method according to the invention enables vehicle functions to be unlocked for use by vehicle manufacturer's vehicle 1 upon the occurrence of a specific event. The corresponding vehicle functions are provided by the hardware of vehicle 1, provided the hardware is configured with a release configuration. Here, the release configuration is provided by a central computing device 3 and transmitted wirelessly to the corresponding vehicle 1. The invention is based on the concept of allocating vehicle functions or release configurations as digital assets to NFTs. The user 2 of the corresponding vehicle 1 owns a wallet 4, which belongs to a cryptocurrency used to manage NFTs. This cryptocurrency is based on blockchain 6. User 2 logs into the central computing device 3 using a personal user account and binds their wallet 4 to the user account. This allows the central computing device 3 to check which NFTs are contained in wallet 4. For this purpose, in the simplest case, user 2 transmits the address of their wallet 4 (e.g., in the form of a public key) to the central computing device 3. Furthermore, this also enables the central computing device 3 to allocate NFTs to wallet 4, i.e., transfer them to that wallet. Here, the central computing device 3 is connected to blockchain 6, for example, via a node (not shown in detail) of the underlying blockchain network or cryptocurrency network. Typically, the central computing device 3 can also constitute such a node.

[0067] To manage their user accounts, user 2 can use various devices, such as mobile terminal device 7. Access can also be made from the vehicle 1 itself or via an internet browser on a desktop computer through a portal provided by the central computing device 3.

[0068] Once the central computing device 3 determines that a specific event has occurred, it prompts the allocation of the corresponding NFT to user 2's wallet 4. It is now necessary to enable or activate the vehicle functionality upon which this NFT is based in vehicle 1. To do this, the central computing device 3 reads the NFT stored in wallet 4. Therefore, the central computing device 3 knows which vehicle functionality should be transferred to vehicle 1 for use and performs this action. By configuring the hardware of vehicle 1 according to the release configuration, the vehicle functionality is considered to be enabled in vehicle 1. The vehicle functionality can now be activated, for example, manually by user 2, automatically by the central computing device 3, or by [other means]. Figure 2 The on-board computing unit 8 shown is automatically activated.

[0069] There are multiple ways for the central computing device 3 to check whether the corresponding events are satisfied. Vehicle 1 can collect vehicle information and forward it to the central computing device 3. For this purpose, the central computing device 3 and the corresponding vehicle 1 are specifically connected to each other via the Internet. Therefore, the corresponding vehicle 1 can have... Figure 2The telecommunications unit 9 is shown. This telecommunications unit 9 enables vehicle 1 to connect to the internet via mobile communication. Various boundary conditions can be maintained in the central computing device 3, specifying when a corresponding NFT should be minted. Once the vehicle function meets such boundary conditions, the central computing device 3 triggers the minting of the corresponding NFT, which contains the vehicle function as a digital asset. Since the central computing device 3 possesses information about which vehicle 1 is associated with which user account and therefore which wallet 4, the central computing device 3 can distribute the NFT to be minted to wallet 4.

[0070] It is also possible that NFTs are pre-minted quarterly before the corresponding event occurs. For this purpose, central computing device 3 mints NFTs and distributes them to manufacturer wallet 10. Here, these NFTs are minted using so-called hybrid smart contracts, which allows the NFTs to be transferred to wallet 4 based on boundary conditions existing outside of blockchain 6. The corresponding vehicle 1 or service provider collects vehicle information and transmits it to blockchain oracle 5. Blockchain oracle 5 then introduces the vehicle information into blockchain 6, allowing the corresponding boundary conditions to be checked via hybrid smart contracts. Once specific vehicle information for a particular vehicle 1 meets the corresponding boundary conditions, the corresponding hybrid smart contract automatically prompts the transfer of the underlying NFT to user 2's wallet 4. For example, user 2 can achieve a certain score in a video game playable on vehicle 1, thereby minting NFTs as a "reward," and the user gains new vehicle features.

[0071] In order to collect vehicle information, vehicle 1 or the corresponding computing unit 8 can, via the same... Figure 2 The fieldbus 11 shown (e.g., CAN bus or Ethernet data line, etc.) reads sensor data. The computing unit 8 can also read information from other control devices 12, 13, 14, 15, 16. Figure 1 Charging station 17 is also shown. Charging station 17 is operated by a service provider. The service provider can collect and store the electrical energy obtained by the corresponding vehicle 1 or user 2 from charging station 17. Thus, the service provider can determine when the corresponding user 2 has acquired a certain amount of energy that triggers NFT minting. The service provider can also provide this information to blockchain oracle 5 and / or central computing device 3 in the form of vehicle information. More broadly, central computing device 3, through the formulation of smart contracts or hybrid smart contracts, facilitates the allocation of NFTs to user 2's wallet 4, even if the information triggering minting or transfer is provided by other sources.

[0072] Figure 2The participants in the method according to the invention are shown in detail again. Thus, the blockchain oracle 5, the central computing device 3, the user 2's wallet 4, and the manufacturer's wallet 10 are connected to the blockchain 6. The central computing device 3 has access to the first database 18.1 and the second database 18.2. In the first database 18.1, vehicle functions or corresponding release configurations can be retained in groups according to their uniqueness level. The corresponding release configurations may include program code and / or media files, such as digital images, videos, sound files, text, etc. In the second database 18.2, a transformation matrix can be retained. Such a transformation matrix defines the vehicle functions and the corresponding boundary conditions for events. The information contained in the transformation matrix can then be used by the central computing device 3 to formulate smart contracts. With the help of these smart contracts, NFTs can be automatically generated and distributed to wallets 4 and 10.

[0073] Here, User 2 has complete control over the execution of the method of the present invention. Thus, User 2 can specify which events or vehicle information should be acquired by the vehicle function. Therefore, the central computing device 3 only needs to collect and record the corresponding vehicle information from Vehicle 1 for the selected vehicle function or vehicle information subscription. Data is thus collected only when necessary.

[0074] The corresponding vehicle information can be collected by the corresponding vehicle sensors and read from control devices 12 to 16. The vehicle information can be transmitted to the central computing device 3 or the blockchain oracle 5 via telecommunications unit 9. Alternatively, telecommunications unit 9 may be directly connected to the blockchain oracle 5 (not shown). Furthermore, user 2 can interact with the infotainment system of vehicle 1 and their user account via a human-machine interface (HMI), or via a portal provided by the vehicle manufacturer through the central computing device 3 for managing user accounts or vehicle 1.

[0075] Control device 12 is used, for example, to control the overall scene presentation of vehicle 1. Control device 13 is used, for example, to control the interior scene presentation. Control device 14 is used, for example, to control the exterior scene presentation. Control device 15 is used, for example, to control the simulated engine sound emitted via external speakers. Control device 16 is used, for example, to communicate with charging station 17 for charging.

Claims

1. A method for unlocking vehicle functions, wherein, The vehicle functions are provided via hardware of the vehicle (1), which is configured by software, and wherein the vehicle functions are provided by the hardware when the hardware is configured according to a release configuration. Its features are, - The user (2) of the vehicle (1) logs into the central computing device (3) using a user account; - The user (2) binds his / her wallet (4) to the user account; - The central computing device (3) initiates the minting of non-fungible tokens, wherein the release configuration is allocated to the non-fungible tokens as digital assets; - The central computing device (3) distributes the non-fungible tokens to the wallet (4) of the user (2) when a specific event occurs. - The central computing device (3) reads the non-fungible tokens stored in the wallet (4); and - The central computing device (3) obtains the corresponding release configuration for the non-fungible tokens stored in the wallet (4) and transmits it to the vehicle (1).

2. The method according to claim 1, Its features are, An event refers to an event related to a vehicle.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, Its features are, The central computing device (3) triggers the minting of non-fungible tokens at a first point in time before the event occurs, and associates the non-fungible tokens with the user's (2) wallet (4) at a later second point in time after the event occurs.

4. The method according to claim 1 or 2, Its features are, The central computing device (3) triggers the minting of non-fungible tokens and associates the non-fungible tokens with the user's (2) wallet (4) when an event occurs.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, Its features are, The vehicle (1) collects vehicle information and transmits it to the central computing device (3). The central computing device (3) compares the vehicle information with at least one condition. Then, once at least one piece of vehicle information meets the condition, the central computing device (3) identifies the occurrence of the event.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, Its features are, At least the non-fungible tokens are allocated to the wallet (4), in particular the minting and distribution of non-fungible tokens, triggered by a hybrid smart contract, wherein the vehicle (1) and / or service provider collects vehicle information and transmits the vehicle information to a blockchain oracle (5), wherein the blockchain oracle (5) transmits the vehicle information to the hybrid smart contract, and wherein the hybrid smart contract includes at least one condition describing when the event occurs based on the vehicle information.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, Its features are, During minting, in particular via a hybrid smart contract, vehicle-specific failure conditions are assigned to the non-fungible tokens. After the failure conditions occur, the hardware of the vehicle (1) is reconfigured from the release configuration to a different configuration, in particular to the standard configuration.

8. The method according to claim 7, Its features are, The vehicle (1) and / or service provider collect vehicle information and transmit it to the blockchain oracle (5), wherein the blockchain oracle (5) transmits the vehicle information to the hybrid smart contract, wherein the failure condition additionally stipulates that the non-fungible token is invalidated after the failure condition occurs.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, Its features are, The central computing device (3) maintains a database with at least two digital assets and determines which digital asset to allocate to the non-fungible token based on boundary conditions.

10. The method according to claim 9, Its features At least one of the following boundary conditions: -Vehicle configuration; and / or - At least one current value for vehicle information.

11. The method according to claim 9 or 10, Its features are, Assign uniqueness levels to digital assets and group them according to those uniqueness levels.

12. An information technology system comprising a central computing device (3) and a vehicle (1). Its features are, The central computing device (3) and the vehicle (1) are configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

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