Carpool coordination order and carpool coordination procedure
The carpool coordination system addresses flexibility and real-time data analysis issues by using digital key devices and an evaluation unit to create personalized carpool proposals, enhancing efficiency and reducing traffic and environmental impact.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-09-27
- Publication Date
- 2026-04-02
AI Technical Summary
Existing carpool coordination systems lack flexibility to respond to spontaneous changes in vehicle users' plans and fail to provide comprehensive, real-time analysis of movement data for effective carpool formation.
A carpool coordination system utilizing digital key devices to record user movements, an evaluation unit to create individual movement profiles, and a communication device to transmit carpool proposals, considering real-time data and user preferences for dynamic coordination.
Enables efficient, user-friendly carpool coordination by reducing traffic congestion and environmental impact through optimized vehicle utilization and personalized suggestions.
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Abstract
Description
[0001] The present invention relates to a carpool coordination arrangement and a carpool coordination method.
[0002] The efficient coordination of carpools presents a significant challenge in today's mobility-oriented society. Despite numerous efforts in transport planning and technology, the efficient and dynamic organization of ride-sharing, particularly when considering the individual needs and preferences of vehicle users, remains problematic. Existing carpool coordination systems often rely on manual input and fixed routines that lack the flexibility to respond to spontaneous changes in vehicle users' plans. Furthermore, there is a lack of systems that enable comprehensive, real-time analysis of movement data and vehicle usage to generate effective carpool formation suggestions.
[0003] One object of the present invention can be seen as providing an improved carpool coordination arrangement and an improved carpool coordination method.
[0004] This problem is solved by a carpool coordination arrangement with the features of claim 1, and by a carpool coordination method with the features of claim 10. According to the invention, the following is provided:
[0005] A carpool coordination arrangement comprising a first digital key device assigned to a first vehicle user and at least a second digital key device assigned to at least a second vehicle user, wherein the first digital key device is configured to detect the movement of the first vehicle user and the at least a second digital key device is configured to detect the movement of the second vehicle user, an evaluation device configured to receive and analyze the detected movements of the first digital key device and the second digital key device, and to create a first movement profile for the first vehicle user and a second movement profile for the second vehicle user.and to generate proposals for coordinating carpools based on the first movement profile of the first vehicle user and the second movement profile of the second vehicle user, a communication device that is equipped to transmit the generated proposals for coordinating carpools to at least one user terminal device.
[0006] Furthermore, a carpool coordination procedure is provided, comprising the following steps: recording the movement of a first vehicle user by means of a first digital key device and recording the movement of a second vehicle user by means of at least a second digital key device, receiving and analyzing the movements recorded by the digital key devices by an evaluation device, creating a first movement profile for the first vehicle user and a second movement profile for the second vehicle user, generating proposals for coordinating carpools based on the created first movement profile of the first vehicle user and the second movement profile of the second vehicle user, transmitting the generated proposals for coordinating carpools to at least one user terminal device by means of a communication device.
[0007] The carpool coordination system according to the invention comprises several components that work together to enable efficient and user-friendly carpool coordination. The carpool coordination system includes, firstly, a first digital key device assigned to a first vehicle user. This first digital key device is designed to record the movements of the first vehicle user. Similarly, the system has at least one second digital key device assigned to a second vehicle user, which also serves to record their movements. These digital key devices are essential components because they continuously collect data on the locations and movement patterns of the vehicle users.
[0008] The digital key device, sometimes also referred to as a digital key, in the carpool coordination system can be designed in various ways to meet the different needs and technology preferences of vehicle users. One possible implementation is the digital key device as a smartphone app, similar to the "My BMW App." This type of implementation allows vehicle users to use their smartphones not only to access the vehicle but also to seamlessly record and transmit their movement data. Smartphone apps offer the advantage of being regularly updated to introduce new features or improve security.
[0009] Another possible design for the digital key device is as a physical key fob. This small, portable item would be equipped with radio technology to track the vehicle user's movements and grant access to the vehicle. Key fobs are particularly user-friendly because they do not require a smartphone and thus represent a simple and effective solution for vehicle users who may be less tech-savvy.
[0010] Additionally, the digital key device could be designed as a wearable, such as a fitness tracker or other body-worn device. Wearables offer the advantage of being worn continuously, allowing them to constantly collect data on the vehicle user's movements. These devices could be particularly useful for gathering detailed health and fitness data, which could also be integrated into the vehicle users' mobility profiles.
[0011] A fourth option would be to integrate the digital key device into a smartwatch. These devices combine the advantages of wearables with the advanced functions of smartphones, including the ability to use apps and communicate with the internet. Smartwatches could therefore serve not only as keys but also as an interface for interacting with the carpooling coordination system and other connected services.
[0012] In particular, the digital key device could be configured according to the Car Connectivity Consortium (CCC) specifications, Release 3.0. These specifications provide a framework for the secure and efficient implementation of digital key systems, including advanced encryption and authentication technologies that ensure data security and protect the privacy of vehicle users.
[0013] Each of these digital key device configurations allows for flexible and adaptable use within the carpooling coordination arrangement, taking into account the specific preferences and needs of vehicle users. The variety of available devices enables vehicle users to select the technology best suited to them, optimizing and personalizing their mobility experience.
[0014] The digital key device in the carpooling coordination arrangement is designed as a highly integrated technological solution that includes both cryptographic data and specific physical, especially electronic, equipment to ensure secure and effective functionality.
[0015] The cryptographic data of the digital key device typically consists of digital key sets and encryption codes required for authentication and secure communication between vehicle users and the vehicle. This data enables the digital key device to function as a secure access system to the vehicle and ensures that the data transmitted between the vehicle user and the vehicle is encrypted and protected against unauthorized access.
[0016] In addition to cryptographic data, the digital key device has physical, particularly electronic, components that support its operation. These include, among other things, integrated circuits responsible for processing the cryptographic data, communication modules such as NFC (Near Field Communication), UWB and / or Bluetooth for wireless data transmission, as well as GPS and / or UWB and / or BLE sensors for location tracking. These components are housed, for example, in a robust, portable enclosure, which can exist either as a standalone device like a key fob or be integrated into a wearable or smartphone.
[0017] The combination of advanced encryption technology and specialized physical components enables the digital key device to provide a reliable and secure interface for interacting with the carpooling coordination system. This helps ensure data integrity and security while creating a seamless and user-friendly experience for vehicle occupants.
[0018] In addition to the digital key devices, the system includes an evaluation unit. This unit is technically designed to receive and analyze the movement data collected by the digital key devices. Based on this data, the evaluation unit then creates individual movement profiles for each vehicle user. These profiles are crucial for the system's functionality, as they provide a detailed basis for generating carpooling proposals.
[0019] The evaluation unit of the carpooling coordination system uses data from digital key devices linked to the movements of vehicle users. It continuously receives information such as the locations, directions, and speeds of the vehicle users. By analyzing this data, the evaluation unit can identify patterns in the movements and create individual movement profiles for each vehicle user.
[0020] These movement profiles reflect the typical routes, travel times and frequently visited locations of vehicle users and adapt dynamically to new data.
[0021] Based on these movement profiles, the evaluation unit generates carpool suggestions. These suggestions aim to match vehicle users with similar routes or destinations for shared journeys, taking into account scheduling, potential detours, and the individual preferences of the vehicle users. The generated carpool suggestions are then sent via a communication device to the vehicle users' devices, where they can view the details of the suggestions and confirm or decline their participation.
[0022] In addition to coordinating carpools, the evaluation system could adjust and optimize the routes of vehicle users. It could incorporate real-time traffic data and generated movement profiles to further increase carpool efficiency. Furthermore, the system could consider additional information such as vehicle maintenance status, fuel levels, and toll charges to ensure a safe and comfortable journey. The evaluation system could also offer personalized incentives, such as discounts or preferred parking, based on vehicle user profiles and driving habits, to make carpooling more attractive.
[0023] In the context of the described invention, the term "carpool" refers to an organized form of shared use of a vehicle by several people who have similar routes or destinations. The basic idea of carpooling is to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of travel, reduce traffic, and minimize environmental impact.
[0024] The carpooling coordination system described in the invention aims to optimize the carpooling process by capturing and analyzing the movement data and availability of individual vehicle users using digital key devices. By creating movement profiles for each vehicle user, the carpooling coordination system can suggest suitable carpools based on actual routes, times, and individual preferences.
[0025] Furthermore, the term "carpooling" within the scope of this invention encompasses not only the one-off shared use of a vehicle, but can also include regular arrangements in which vehicle users repeatedly travel together. The aim is to provide an efficient, flexible, and user-friendly solution that enables vehicle users to plan and execute their journeys more effectively, while simultaneously reducing traffic congestion and environmental impact.
[0026] Another important element of the system is the communication device. This is designed to transmit the coordination suggestions generated by the evaluation unit to at least one user device. This ensures that vehicle users are informed about potential carpools in a timely and efficient manner, thus facilitating the planning and execution of shared journeys.
[0027] For the purposes of this invention, the term "user terminal device" refers to an electronic device used for communication and interaction with the carpooling coordination system. It enables vehicle users to receive carpooling suggestions and to input preferences and specific requirements. Typically, a user terminal device is a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or other portable computing device equipped with a suitable communication interface for receiving and sending data to and from the carpooling coordination system. The user terminal device thus acts as an interface between the vehicle user and the evaluation unit of the coordination system, through which the relevant information is provided and managed.
[0028] The carpooling coordination system relies on the seamless integration and analysis of real-time movement data. By continuously collecting and evaluating this data, highly precise and situation-specific carpool suggestions can be generated. This includes taking into account the current locations, preferred routes, and schedules of the vehicle users. The communication system plays a central role in this process, ensuring the fast and reliable transmission of these suggestions.
[0029] The technical advantages of the carpool coordination system lie primarily in its ability to offer vehicle users significant time and cost savings by quickly identifying and coordinating efficient carpools based on detailed movement profiles. This not only reduces traffic congestion and environmental impact through fewer individual trips but also improves the utilization of existing vehicle resources. Furthermore, the system fosters social interaction among vehicle users and supports a more environmentally friendly and cost-effective mode of transportation.
[0030] According to a preferred embodiment, the first digital key device can acquire vehicle information from a vehicle used by a vehicle user. The evaluation unit can then use this acquired vehicle information to coordinate carpools. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the first digital key device has the capability to acquire vehicle information from a vehicle used by a vehicle user. This vehicle information can include a variety of data, such as the vehicle's current location, fuel consumption, technical condition, and seat availability, which significantly facilitates the coordination and planning of carpools.The evaluation unit receives this captured vehicle information and uses it to generate carpooling suggestions based on real-world vehicle data, ensuring high precision and relevance. By considering such specific vehicle information, the evaluation unit can generate more efficient, safer, and user-friendly carpooling options that are better tailored to the actual conditions and needs of vehicle users. The technical advantage of this design lies in optimizing resource utilization and minimizing empty trips by effectively sharing vehicles based on accurate data. This configuration thus contributes to reducing traffic and environmental impact, promoting more sustainable mobility.
[0031] According to a further preferred embodiment, a seat occupancy detection device can be provided, which is designed to detect and store the seat occupancy in the vehicle and to take this information into account when coordinating carpools. In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, a seat occupancy detection device is provided which is specifically designed to detect the seat occupancy in a vehicle and to store this information. This device uses sensors or camera systems to determine and document the number of occupied and available seats in real time. The collected data on seat occupancy is then used by the evaluation unit to ensure optimal vehicle utilization when coordinating carpools.By integrating this specific information, the carpooling coordination system can more effectively suggest suitable carpools that optimally utilize available space in the vehicle, thus reducing the number of unnecessary trips. The technical advantage of this implementation lies in the increased efficiency of vehicle utilization, which not only saves costs but also reduces traffic and environmental impact. This ability to consider precise information about seat availability enhances user-friendliness and satisfaction by improving planning reliability and convenience when forming carpools.
[0032] According to a further preferred embodiment, the evaluation unit can be configured to recognize typical carpools and driving patterns from the generated movement profiles and to generate suggestions for optimizing carpools. In a further preferred embodiment, the evaluation unit is configured to recognize typical carpools and driving patterns from the generated movement profiles. This functionality enables the unit to identify recurring patterns in the travel routes and times of vehicle users and, based on this, to generate efficient suggestions for forming or optimizing carpools. The movement profiles are created by continuously recording and analyzing the movement data of the vehicle users using digital key devices.The evaluation system uses machine learning or pattern recognition algorithms to analyze this data and suggest optimal carpool groupings that consider not only routes but also the time preferences of vehicle users. The technical advantage of this design lies in the increased efficiency of the transportation system, which reduces the number of trips and maximizes vehicle utilization. This increased efficiency leads to a reduction in operating costs, traffic congestion, and environmental impact, making the carpooling arrangement a more sustainable and cost-effective mobility solution.
[0033] According to a further preferred embodiment, the evaluation unit can offer the first and / or second vehicle user benefits and incentives to participate in carpooling based on the generated movement profiles. In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the evaluation unit is configured to offer the first and / or second vehicle user benefits and incentives to participate in carpooling based on the generated movement profiles. These movement profiles, which are obtained from the data of the digital key devices, provide information about the driving habits and route preferences of the vehicle users.The evaluation system uses this information to create tailored benefits such as discounts, preferred parking, or other monetary and non-monetary incentives, adapted to the specific needs and behavior of vehicle users. Offering such incentives makes carpooling more attractive, motivating vehicle users to actively participate and form carpools regularly. The technical advantage of this approach lies in increased vehicle user acceptance and participation, which in turn leads to more efficient vehicle utilization and a reduction in traffic and environmental impact. Such incentive systems thus not only contribute to increased environmental sustainability but also improve the overall economic efficiency of the transportation system.
[0034] According to a further preferred embodiment, the carpooling coordination system can include calendar integration, which allows a vehicle user's appointments and planned trips to be taken into account when coordinating carpools. This integration establishes a link between the vehicle user's personal or professional calendar and the carpooling coordination system, thereby allowing the availability and schedules of vehicle users to be directly incorporated into carpool planning.In this way, the carpooling coordination system can automatically generate carpool suggestions that seamlessly integrate into the existing plans of vehicle users without requiring manual input. This implementation ensures that carpools are formed not only based on geographical proximity but also on temporal compatibility, increasing the likelihood of suggestions being accepted. The technical advantage of this implementation lies in increased efficiency and user satisfaction, as the carpools are better tailored to the individual needs of the vehicle users. This type of integration thus helps to minimize the organizational effort for vehicle users while simultaneously maximizing the effectiveness of carpooling coordination.
[0035] According to a further preferred embodiment, the evaluation unit can integrate additional services, such as the status of vehicle maintenance, toll fees, entertainment settings, and / or the vehicle's fuel level, into the carpool coordination. In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the evaluation unit can integrate additional services into the carpool coordination that go beyond simply forming carpools. These additional services include the status of vehicle maintenance, toll fees, entertainment settings, and the vehicle's fuel level. By incorporating this information, the evaluation unit can ensure that all relevant vehicle conditions are taken into account to guarantee a safe and pleasant journey for all vehicle users.For example, considering the fuel level allows for the planning of refueling stops on shared routes, while the maintenance status ensures that only technically sound vehicles are used for carpooling. The technical advantage of this approach lies in the increased safety and comfort for vehicle users, as potential problems or inconveniences can be identified and addressed before the trip. This comprehensive consideration of vehicle conditions helps to strengthen vehicle users' confidence in the carpooling arrangement and improves its efficiency.
[0036] According to a further preferred embodiment, the evaluation unit can adapt and optimize a vehicle's route with respect to the generated movement profiles. In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the evaluation unit is designed to adapt and optimize a vehicle's route with respect to the generated movement profiles. This capability makes it possible to modify routes based on the historical and current movement data of the vehicle users in order to maximize the efficiency and effectiveness of carpooling. The evaluation unit analyzes the movement profiles generated from the data of the digital key devices and uses this information to optimize routes that reduce traffic congestion, detours, and unused capacity.By adjusting routes, not only can travel times be shortened, but fuel consumption and emissions can also be minimized. The technical advantage of this approach lies in the significant increase in logistical efficiency and the more environmentally friendly design of carpools. This optimized route planning leads to better vehicle utilization and increased user satisfaction, as carpools become more seamless and comfortable.
[0037] According to a further preferred embodiment, a user interface can be provided that allows a vehicle user to consider settings for coordinating carpools. In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, a user interface is provided that allows a vehicle user to consider settings for coordinating carpools. This user interface provides an interactive platform on which vehicle users can directly enter and adjust their preferences and availability for carpools. The interface is designed to be user-friendly and allows vehicle users to effectively communicate their ride requests, time windows, and preferred routes.This information is used by the evaluation unit to generate customized carpool suggestions that meet the specific needs of the vehicle users. The technical advantage of this implementation lies in the improved vehicle user experience and the greater acceptance of the carpool coordination system, as vehicle users are actively involved in the planning processes and their needs are better taken into account. This personalized interaction increases the efficiency of carpools and enhances vehicle user satisfaction, ultimately leading to more frequent use of the service.
[0038] According to a further preferred embodiment, the evaluation unit can additionally consider information about traffic conditions, weather data, and estimated times of arrival when coordinating carpools. This integration enables a comprehensive analysis of environmental factors that could influence carpool routes, thereby providing vehicle users with realistic and adaptable driving options.By incorporating traffic data, the carpooling coordination system can anticipate congestion and delays and suggest alternative routes, while weather data helps minimize safety risks by, for example, choosing safer routes in adverse weather conditions. Considering estimated times of arrival allows vehicle users to plan their schedules more accurately and ensure punctuality. The technical advantage of this implementation lies in the increased efficiency and reliability of carpooling services, as they can react to changes in traffic and weather conditions in real time. This dynamic adaptability leads to improved vehicle user satisfaction and optimized use of traffic resources, significantly increasing the attractiveness and practical applicability of the carpooling coordination system.
[0039] In a further embodiment of the invention, the evaluation unit is configured to generate suggestions for the use of a specific vehicle, in particular a rental vehicle. This functionality enables the carpooling coordination system to analyze the size of the carpool and suggest a suitable vehicle accordingly. For example, with a larger group of carpool participants, the carpooling coordination system could recommend a large vehicle such as a van or minibus to ensure an efficient and comfortable journey. For smaller groups, on the other hand, the system could suggest a smaller vehicle such as a compact car to minimize costs and unnecessary resource consumption.
[0040] This intelligent vehicle allocation is based on the specific needs of each planned trip, taking into account the number of participants, the route, and other relevant factors such as luggage requirements or special transport needs. The technical advantage of this approach lies in optimized resource utilization and cost savings, as the vehicle that best meets the current requirements is always suggested. This targeted vehicle selection not only increases the efficiency of carpools but also contributes to reducing the environmental footprint by avoiding overcapacity and minimizing fuel consumption.
[0041] According to a further preferred embodiment of the carpool coordination system according to the invention, carpooling suggestions can be generated taking into account the individual preferences of the vehicle users. These individual preferences can be based on various factors beyond mere geographical proximity or availability. The evaluation unit can be capable of capturing and analyzing the personal preferences of the vehicle users and incorporating them into the carpooling suggestions, thus ensuring an even higher degree of personalization and convenience. For example, the preferences considered could include the musical tastes of the vehicle users. The vehicle users could indicate what kind of music they prefer while traveling, be it classical, pop, rock, or other genres.Based on this information, the evaluation system could coordinate carpools so that people with similar musical tastes travel together, contributing to a more pleasant and harmonious journey. This not only enhances comfort but can also lead to more enjoyable social interaction among passengers. Furthermore, the carpool coordination system could consider the hobbies and interests of the vehicle users to create a common ground for conversation and interaction during the trip. For example, people interested in sports like soccer, tennis, or running could be preferentially grouped into carpools with others who share similar interests. Other interests, such as travel, art, or technology, could also be factored into carpooling arrangements.This type of personalized coordination not only contributes to a pleasant journey but can also strengthen social networks and facilitate new contacts. Additionally, professional preferences or fields of activity could be incorporated into the carpooling arrangements. For example, people from similar professions or industries could preferentially travel together, promoting professional exchange and networking during the journey. For commuters, this could be a particularly attractive way to use their daily travel time productively and build professional connections.
[0042] Another important aspect that can be considered in this embodiment is the comfort preferences of the vehicle users. The carpooling arrangement could define different comfort categories, similar to what is common in aviation, with distinctions between economy class, business class, and first class. Vehicle users who place particular value on luxury and comfort could preferentially choose carpools that include vehicles with especially comfortable features, such as leather seats, extended legroom, or special services. In contrast, vehicle users who place less value on comfort could travel in vehicles with simpler features. These distinctions in comfort levels allow the carpooling arrangement to specifically address the needs and desires of different vehicle user groups and thus provide an optimal mobility experience.
[0043] By taking all these individual preferences and comfort requirements into account, the carpooling arrangement becomes even more user-friendly and flexible. Vehicle users receive suggestions that are not only based on geographical and temporal factors, but also consider their personal preferences and needs, resulting in a more pleasant and satisfying journey overall. This additional personalization enhances the appeal of the carpooling arrangement and increases the willingness of vehicle users to participate in carpools regularly, further reducing traffic congestion and optimizing the use of vehicle resources.
[0044] The present invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the schematic figures of the drawings. Brief description of the drawings: Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of the carpool coordination arrangement according to the invention. Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic view of another embodiment of the carpool coordination arrangement according to the invention. Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic flowchart of an embodiment of a carpool coordination method according to the invention. Fig. Figure 4 shows a schematic flowchart of a further embodiment of a carpool coordination method according to the invention.
[0045] Where appropriate, the described designs and further training courses can be combined in any way.
[0046] Further possible embodiments, developments and implementations of the invention could also include combinations of features of the invention described previously or subsequently with regard to the exemplary embodiments that are not explicitly mentioned.
[0047] The accompanying drawings are intended to provide a further understanding of the embodiments of the invention. They illustrate embodiments and, in conjunction with the description, serve to explain the principles and concepts of the invention.
[0048] Other embodiments and many of the advantages mentioned could be seen in the drawings.
[0049] The elements in the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale. Identical reference symbols denote identical or similarly functioning components.
[0050] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of the carpool coordination arrangement 100 according to the invention, and Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic view of a further embodiment of the carpool coordination arrangement 100 according to the invention, in particular an exemplary scenario of the carpool coordination according to the invention.
[0051] The carpool coordination arrangement 100 comprises a first digital key device 101, assigned to a first vehicle user 110, and at least one second digital key device 113, assigned to at least one second vehicle user 111. The first digital key device 101 is configured to record the movement of the first vehicle user 110, and the at least one second digital key device 113 is configured to record the movement of the second vehicle user 111. An evaluation unit 106 receives and analyzes the recorded movements and creates a first movement profile for the first vehicle user 110 and a second movement profile for the second vehicle user 111. Based on these movement profiles, the evaluation unit 106 generates carpool coordination proposals, which are then transmitted by a communication unit 107 to at least one user terminal 108.
[0052] Optionally, the first digital key device 101 can record vehicle information from a vehicle 120 used by the first vehicle user 110, which is then used by the evaluation unit 106 to coordinate carpools. Furthermore, a seat occupancy detection device 102 can be provided, which records and stores the seat occupancy in the vehicle 120, and this information is also used for carpool coordination. The evaluation unit 106 can also identify typical carpools and driving patterns from the generated movement profiles and generate suggestions for optimizing carpools. Additionally, the evaluation unit 106 can offer the first and / or second vehicle user 110, 111 benefits and incentives for participating in carpool coordination based on the generated movement profiles.
[0053] The carpool coordination arrangement 100 can also include a calendar integration 109, which allows appointments and planned trips of the first vehicle user 110 and / or the second vehicle user 111 to be taken into account when coordinating carpools. The evaluation unit 106 is further configured to integrate additional services such as the status of vehicle maintenance, toll fees, entertainment settings, and / or fuel levels of the vehicle 120 into the carpool coordination and to adapt and optimize a route of the vehicle 120 with regard to the created movement profiles. A user interface unit 115 can be provided, which allows the first vehicle user 110 and / or the second vehicle user 111 to consider settings for coordinating carpools.Finally, the evaluation unit 106 can also take into account information about traffic conditions, weather data and expected arrival times when coordinating carpools.
[0054] In an exemplary embodiment according to the invention, which is described in Fig. As shown in Figure 2, two vehicle users 110; 111 use the carpooling coordination arrangement 100 to make their daily commutes to work more efficient.
[0055] The first vehicle user, 110, begins their day with a regular trip from point A to point B and then from point B to point C. The first digital key device, 101, continuously records the movements of vehicle user 110. This first key device, 101, records data such as departure times, the duration of each trip segment, and the distances traveled. The recorded data is sent to the evaluation unit, 106, which then creates a movement profile for vehicle user 110.
[0056] In parallel, a second vehicle user 111 travels from point B to point C at the same time every workday. Similar to the first vehicle user 110, the second digital key device 113 records the movements of vehicle user 111. The data collected is also transmitted to the evaluation unit 106, which creates a separate movement profile for vehicle user 111.
[0057] After creating the movement profiles of vehicle users 110 and 111, the evaluation unit 106 analyzes the routes and schedules of both vehicle users 110 and 111. Since both vehicle users 110 and 111 have similar segments of their routes—from B to C—the evaluation unit 106 identifies a potential carpooling opportunity. Based on this analysis, the evaluation unit 106 generates carpooling suggestions aimed at bringing vehicle users 110 and 111 together for the shared route from B to C.
[0058] These suggestions are then transmitted by the communication device 107 to the user terminals 108 of the two vehicle users 110 and 111. Vehicle users 110 and 111 can view the details of the carpooling suggestions and decide whether they want to travel together from B to C. By accepting the suggestions, both vehicle users 110 and 111 can share their travel costs and simultaneously contribute to reducing traffic and environmental impact.
[0059] This embodiment and the described scenario demonstrate how the carpooling coordination arrangement 100 can help to optimize daily routes and provide vehicle users 110; 111 with an efficient and environmentally friendly driving alternative.
[0060] Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic flowchart of an embodiment of a carpool coordination method according to the invention, comprising five process steps S100; S200; S300; S400 and S500.The process steps are as follows: S100: Recording the movement of a first vehicle user 110 using a first digital key device 101 and recording the movement of a second vehicle user 111 using at least one second digital key device 113, S200: Receiving and analyzing the movements recorded by the key devices 101, 113 using an evaluation device 106, S300: Creating a first movement profile for the first vehicle user 110 and a second movement profile for the second vehicle user 111, S400: Generating proposals for coordinating carpools based on the created first movement profile of the first vehicle user 110 and the second movement profile of the second vehicle user 111, S500: Transmitting the generated proposals for coordinating carpools to at least one user terminal device 108 using a communication device 107.
[0061] Fig.Figure 4 shows a schematic flowchart of a further embodiment of a carpool coordination method according to the invention, comprising five process steps S101, S201, S301, S401, and S501. The carpool coordination method 100 begins with step S101, in which the movements of the first vehicle user 110 are recorded by means of a first digital key device 101, and the movements of the second vehicle user 111 are recorded by means of a second digital key device 113. Data on the current locations, movement patterns, and times of the vehicle users 110 and 111 are continuously collected. In step S201, the evaluation unit 106 receives and analyzes these recorded movements and creates a movement profile for each of the first and second vehicle users 110 and 111, which includes typical routes, travel times, and regular destinations.
[0062] Step S301 then follows, in which the evaluation unit 106 generates carpool coordination proposals based on the created movement profiles. It also considers vehicle information for vehicle 120, such as fuel level and maintenance status, to ensure that the proposed vehicle 120 is suitable for the planned trip. Optionally, the seat occupancy is also checked in this step using the seat occupancy detection unit 102 to maximize the utilization of vehicle 120.
[0063] In step S401, the generated carpooling proposals are transmitted by the communication unit 107 to at least one user terminal 108. These proposals contain optimized routes, which have been adapted by the evaluation unit 106 taking into account current traffic conditions and weather data. Finally, step S501 allows vehicle users 110 and 111 to enter their preferences and availability via the user interface unit 115, as well as to specify requirements, such as the need for more space for additional luggage. Through the sequence of these steps, a personalized and optimized carpool is coordinated, maximizing efficiency, safety, and comfort. Reference symbol list 100 Carpool Coordination Order 101 First digital key system 102 Seat occupancy recording device 106 Evaluation unit 107 Communication device 108 User terminal 109 Calendar integration 110 First vehicle user 111 Second vehicle user 113 Second digital key device 115 User Interface Setup 120 vehicles S100 process step S200 process step S300 process step S400 process step S500 process step S101 Procedure step S201 Procedure step S301 Procedure step S401 Procedure step S501 Procedure step
Claims
[1] Carpool Coordination Order (100), comprising: a first digital key device (101) assigned to a first vehicle user (110) and at least a second digital key device (113) assigned to at least a second vehicle user (111), wherein the first digital key device (101) is configured to detect the movement of the first vehicle user (110) and the at least one second digital key device (113) is configured to detect the movement of the second vehicle user (111), an evaluation device (106) which is designed to receive and analyze the recorded movements of the first digital key device (101) and the second digital key device (113), and to create a first movement profile for the first vehicle user (110) and a second movement profile for the second vehicle user (111), and to generate proposals for coordinating carpools based on the created first movement profile of the first vehicle user (110) and the second movement profile of the second vehicle user (111), a communication device (107) that is equipped to transmit the generated proposals for coordinating carpools to at least one user terminal device (108). [2] Carpool coordination arrangement (100) according to claim 1, characterized by, that the first digital key device (101) is designed to capture vehicle information of a vehicle (120) used by the first vehicle user (110), wherein the evaluation device (106) is designed to take the captured vehicle information into account for the coordination of carpools. [3] Carpool coordination arrangement (100) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that a seat occupancy detection device (102) is provided which is designed to detect and store the seat occupancy in the vehicle (120) and to take it into account when coordinating carpools. [4] Carpool coordination arrangement (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the evaluation unit (106) is designed to recognize typical carpools and driving patterns from the created movement profiles and to make suggestions for optimizing the carpools. [5] Carpool coordination arrangement (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the evaluation unit (106) is trained to offer the first vehicle user (110) and / or the second vehicle user (111) benefits and incentives to participate in the coordination of carpools based on the movement profiles created. [6] Carpool coordination arrangement (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the evaluation unit (106) is trained to integrate additional services, such as the status of vehicle maintenance, toll charges, entertainment settings and / or the vehicle's fuel levels (120), into the coordination of carpools. [7] Carpool coordination arrangement (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the evaluation device (106) is designed to adapt and optimize a vehicle's (120) route with regard to the created movement profiles. [8] Carpool coordination arrangement (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that a user interface device (115) is provided which enables the first vehicle user (110) and / or the second vehicle user (111) to take into account settings for coordinating carpools. [9] Carpool coordination arrangement (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the evaluation unit (106) is additionally trained to take into account information on traffic conditions, weather data and expected arrival times when coordinating carpools. [10] Carpool coordination procedure, comprising the following steps: S100 Detection of the movement of a first vehicle user (110) by means of a first digital key device (101) and detection of the movement of a second vehicle user (111) by means of at least one second digital key device (113), S200 Receiving and analyzing the movements detected by the digital key devices (101, 113) by an evaluation device (106), S300 Creating a first movement profile for the first vehicle user (110) and a second movement profile for the second vehicle user (111), S400 Generating suggestions for coordinating carpools based on the created first movement profile of the first vehicle user (110) and the second movement profile of the second vehicle user (111), S500 Transmitting the generated proposals for coordinating carpools to at least one user terminal (108) by means of a communication device (107).
Citation Information
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