Method for unlocking a vehicle function, and information technology system

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for unlocking a vehicle function, wherein the vehicle function can be provided via the hardware of a vehicle (1.1, 1.2), the hardware is configured by software, and wherein the vehicle function is provided by the hardware when the hardware is configured according to a release configuration. The method according to the invention is characterised in that: - a first user (2.1) of the vehicle (1.1) logs into a central computing unit (3) with a user account; - the first user (2.1) links their wallet (4.1) to the user account; - the central computing unit (3) initiates the minting of an ownership NFT (NFT-EIG), the release configuration being assigned to the ownership NFT (NFT-EIG) as a digital asset; - the central computing unit (3) ensures that the ownership NFT (NFT-EIG) is assigned to the wallet (4.1) of the first user (1.1) such that the first user (1.1) owns the vehicle function underlying the ownership NFT (NFT-EIG); - the central computing unit (3) reads the NFTs stored in the wallet (4.1); - the central computing unit (3) retrieves the release configurations for NFTs stored in the wallet (4.1) and transmits them to the vehicle (1.1); and the first user (2.1) temporarily transfers possession of the vehicle function as a loan to a second user (2.2), the first user (2.1) retaining ownership of the vehicle function.

Description

[0001] Mercedes-Benz Group AG

[0002] Method for activating a vehicle function and information technology system

[0003] The invention relates to a method for activating a vehicle function according to the type defined in more detail in the preamble of claim 1 and to an information technology system comprising a central computing device, a first vehicle and a second vehicle.

[0004] The degree of digitalization in vehicles is constantly increasing. For example, the mechanical steering system or the control of the braking system and fuel pump based on pedal position are being replaced by electronic control systems. This is also known as drive-by-wire. In addition, new assistance functions are being provided to increase safety and comfort, such as lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, or the ability to watch films, make video calls, stream audiobooks, and the like on an in-vehicle display.

[0005] Various vehicle functions require the installation of specific hardware components in the vehicle. During the ordering process, a vehicle can be configured so that certain hardware components are installed that generally allow the provision of several functions, although only some of these functions are actually purchased by a customer. The remaining functions, i.e. those not purchased, are then blocked for use in the vehicle manufactured for the customer by a software configuration. However, since the required hardware is already installed, this makes it possible to subsequently unlock the functions via software. For example, by reconfiguring the vehicle's software, increased engine power could be temporarily or permanently enabled, a seat heating function could be subscribed to, for example, for the winter months, or something similar.To manage vehicle functions used in the vehicle, the user interacts with the vehicle manufacturer, for example, via a central portal, such as a server operated by the vehicle manufacturer that forms an interface between a user account and their vehicle. This allows the user to connect their vehicle to their user account and book vehicle functions individually. However, control over the booked functions remains with the vehicle manufacturer, which can negatively impact a user's decision-making process regarding the additional booking of separate functions. It would be desirable, therefore, to transfer control over bookable vehicle functions to the customer.

[0006] Certain digital currencies, also known as cryptocurrencies, or the respective underlying blockchains, such as the Ethereum blockchain, the Binance Smart Chain, or Solana, allow the creation of so-called non-fungible tokens (NFTs). The creation of NFTs is also referred to as minting. In particular, the minting and / or initiation of transactions of a respective NFT is controlled by a so-called smart contract. A smart contract is program code written into the blockchain that is automatically executable on the blockchain by the crypto network managing the blockchain based on the information written into the blockchain. While the units of a respective cryptocurrency are divisible, i.e. "fungible," each NFT is unique, i.e. "non-fungible."An NFT represents a specific asset, particularly a digital asset such as an image file, video file, sound file, text file, or the like. Physical assets such as houses, vehicles, sneakers, or the like can also be assigned to an NFT as "proof of ownership." The information describing or referencing the asset associated with an NFT is typically written into the NFT's metadata. The metadata can be stored in the blocks of the blockchain itself, or preferably in a storage location external to the blockchain. A blockchain can be managed centrally or decentrally. A so-called non-fungible token standard, such as ERC721 or ERC1155, defines how the respective metadata is to be designed and processed.

[0007] Furthermore, so-called hybrid smart contracts are known, which link program code running on the blockchain with information and calculations available external to the blockchain. Blockchain oracles are used as the interface. One such service for linking a blockchain with external systems, which enables the execution of smart contracts based on real-world inputs and outputs, is provided by the company Chainlink, for example.

[0008] DE 102022 000646 A1 discloses a method for minting and using vehicle-related non-fungible tokens. This document describes the provision of vehicle functions 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 when the vehicle is manufactured, repaired, undergoes maintenance, is sold, or similarly. This makes it possible to track the condition or degree of wear of the vehicle using NFTs. Vehicle-related NFTs can also be minted when certain milestones are reached with the vehicle, such as reaching a specified operating time, distance traveled, staying at a specific location, or the like.This allows the vehicle to achieve so-called "achievements," making the use of the vehicle even more engaging for users by providing gamification-based features. Using the NFTs minted upon achieving such an achievement, users can track their personal achievements and present them to others as proof.

[0009] Furthermore, US 2022 / 0383295 A1 discloses a so-called collection container for NFT goods. This document addresses the problem that NFTs are usually linked to digital goods, also known as "digital assets," with which one cannot interact in the real world. The collection container represents an electronic device in the form of a computing device capable of downloading digital goods linked to an NFT via the internet and outputting them via output devices included in the collection container. For example, digital works of art can be displayed on a display device or audio content can be played via integrated speakers. The collection container has its own wallet, so that respective NFTs or digital goods can be clearly assigned to a specific collection container.Owners of such collection containers can trade the NFTs they own, along with corresponding digital goods, with each other, for example by exchanging the collection containers themselves or by conducting corresponding transactions of the NFTs on the respective underlying blockchain.

[0010] Furthermore, US 2023 / 0071093 A1 describes a system and method for the uniform listing and transfer of NFT assets across multiple platforms, based on the use of smart contracts. The document describes a mediator for utilizing various NFT marketplaces. The smart contract for minting an NFT includes conditions that can be processed by several different NFT marketplaces. Furthermore, the document describes a translation module capable of defining conditions for smart contracts in natural language and translating them into machine-readable code. This increases the user-friendliness of formulating smart contracts for users with little or no programming knowledge.

[0011] The present invention is based on the object of providing a possibility for imparting vehicle functions.

[0012] According to the invention, this object is achieved by a method for activating a vehicle function having the features of claim 1. Advantageous embodiments and further developments as well as an information technology system for implementing the method emerge from the dependent claims.

[0013] A generic method for enabling a vehicle function, wherein the vehicle function can be provided via the hardware of a vehicle, the hardware is configured by software, and wherein the vehicle function is provided by the hardware when the hardware is configured according to a release configuration, is further developed according to the invention in that

[0014] - a first user of the vehicle logs into a central computer system with a user account;

[0015] - the first user links his wallet to the user account;

[0016] - the central computing device initiates the minting of a proprietary NFT, whereby the release configuration is assigned to the proprietary NFT as a digital asset;

[0017] - the central processing unit assigns the ownership NFT to the first user's wallet, so that the first user owns the vehicle function underlying the ownership NFT; - the central processing unit reads the NFTs stored in the wallet;

[0018] - the central computing device obtains the respective release configurations for property NFTs stored in the wallet and transmits them to the vehicle; and

[0019] - the first user temporarily transfers ownership of the vehicle function to a second user on loan, whereby the first user remains the owner of the vehicle function.

[0020] The present invention is therefore based on the idea of ​​linking usable vehicle functions in a vehicle with NFTs, so that the respective customers or users can actually "own" the respective vehicle function. Thus, sovereignty over acquired vehicle functions is transferred from the vehicle manufacturer to the user. This also enables the user to resell or gift previously acquired vehicle functions. The user who initially purchases a corresponding NFT or vehicle function from the vehicle manufacturer becomes the owner of the vehicle function. According to the invention, it is even possible to lend usable vehicle functions via NFTs. Thus, the first user relinquishes possession of the NFT during the loan period, but remains the owner of the NFT.

[0021] The respective vehicle function is assigned to an NFT as a digital asset. Through the use of NFTs and the corresponding underlying blockchain technology, particularly based on distributed ledger technology, the method according to the invention is inherently secure.

[0022] Vehicle functions can include any conceivable function that can be executed through software adaptations on the hardware already installed in the vehicle. These can include, for example, special graphical elements of a graphical user interface, such as a special speedometer design for an instrument cluster configured as a display device, a special artificial engine noise for an electric motor that is output via external vehicle speakers, increased engine power, a comfort function such as seat heating, a massage function, a lighting function, such as a special light pattern for ambient lighting, or the like.

[0023] The central computing facility is a cloud server or

[0024] Server network, in particular managed by the vehicle manufacturer. The user has an individual user account, clearly referenced by an individual user name and secured by a personal password. The user's vehicle is linked to their user account, allowing the central computing device to clearly associate users with the respective vehicles. For this purpose, the vehicle is linked to the user account via a unique identifier such as a serial number, vehicle identification number, or the like. The user also has a wallet for cryptocurrencies or NFTs. The user then links this wallet to their user account, allowing the central computing device to verify the wallet's contents.In the simplest case, this simply means that the user deposits a public address for their wallet, for example, the so-called "public key," with the central computing device. The infrastructure operated by the vehicle manufacturer, i.e., a platform provided on the central computing device, can also have integrated wallet functionality. This allows not only the vehicle manufacturer to have its own manufacturer wallet, but the vehicle manufacturer can also assign a separate wallet to each user account. This reduces the barrier for non-technical users to using the method according to the invention, as users do not have to create a wallet themselves.

[0025] To unlock specific vehicle configurations, the vehicle manufacturer develops corresponding release configurations. A release configuration is the corresponding program code. Once implemented on a computing unit in the vehicle, the respective computing unit or hardware is adapted so that the vehicle function provided by the respective hardware can also be used. In the simplest case, a flag is changed, for example, from 0 to 1 or negative to positive. The vehicle manufacturer can provide appropriately designed release configurations for a wide variety of hardware combinations. For each release configuration, the central computing unit causes the corresponding minting or minting of the respective NFTs.For example, the time for minting an NFT can be chosen so that the NFT is minted exactly when the user acquires the respective release configuration from the vehicle manufacturer through the occurrence of the event. There are various ways in which the central computing device can allocate the respective NFTs to the user's wallet. Either the central computing device or the vehicle manufacturer can have its own manufacturer wallet, to which the NFTs are allocated during minting. The NFTs are then transferred from the manufacturer's wallet to the user's wallet. However, it is also possible for the address or public key of the user's wallet to be specified directly during the minting process, so that the freshly minted NFTs initially appear in the user's wallet.

[0026] After purchasing the vehicle function, the user can activate the vehicle function in their vehicle. This can happen automatically when the vehicle function is purchased or can be initiated manually by the user. To do this, the user can use various human-machine interfaces, such as a user interface in the vehicle itself, for example in the form of a touch-sensitive display device, a mobile device such as a smartphone linked to the vehicle, in particular via the user account, or using a browser-based access interface, for example using a desktop computer connected to the Internet. The user can then log in to the central computing device using their user account, select their vehicle in a corresponding input mask and activate a specific vehicle function, for example by ticking a box.The computing unit used for this purpose, for example an internal vehicle computing unit, the user's smartphone or even the desktop computer, sends information to the central computing device via a corresponding application programming interface (API), indicating that the respective vehicle function should be activated.

[0027] At various times, for example, when the user opens their user account via a corresponding portal or every time the vehicle is started, the central computing device can read the user's wallet and thus record the NFTs stored there. Accordingly, the central computing device adapts an output mask to display currently available vehicle functions. This allows the user to switch acquired vehicle functions on and off as needed. After the user has activated a respective vehicle function, the central computing device sends a corresponding signal to the vehicle to activate the vehicle function. For this purpose, the central computing device can, for example, transmit the program code of the release configuration itself to the respective computing unit of the vehicle, with the command that the respective program code be executed.To implement the method according to the invention, all current or future blockchain technologies and the cryptocurrencies that can be provided thereby can be used. The blockchain can be managed centrally or decentrally.

[0028] In the simplest case, the NFT simply contains a unique identifier, such as a unique token ID. The central computing device can maintain a file in which a connection between the NFTs and the respective vehicle functions is stored. The central computing device can then read the user's wallet, obtain the unique token ID, and consult the file to determine which vehicle function is available to the user. The central computing device then activates the corresponding vehicle function in the user's vehicle. In this case, it is not even necessary to assign a reference to the digital asset to the NFT, as the central computing device already has this information.

[0029] The method according to the invention can provide that

[0030] - the NFT includes the digital asset; or

[0031] - the digital asset is stored in a centralized or decentralized network storage, whereby the NFT includes a reference to the digital asset.

[0032] It is thus possible to link specific vehicle functions to NFTs in different ways. The corresponding program code can either be written directly into a block of the blockchain used that represents the NFT. However, it is also possible to store the corresponding program code and any required media files on the centralized or decentralized network storage and simply integrate a reference to the corresponding storage location into the blockchain. Such a reference is also called a URI. For example, it can be a URL. The digital asset can thus be stored both on-chain and off-chain.

[0033] The central network storage can, in particular, be the server used as the central computing device or a server in the server network. The distributed or decentralized network storage can, for example, be the so-called "Interplanetary File System" (IPFS). This is a protocol and a network for creating a peer-to-peer storage for files, such as so-called hypermedia. The advantage of using decentralized network storage over centralized network storage is that it is characterized by a lower probability of failure. There is a high risk that a central node will fail, at least temporarily, for example due to a cyberattack, maintenance work, environmental influences such as a power outage, flooding, or the like. During this period, no digital goods can then be retrieved from the central network storage.However, with a decentralized network storage, information is stored on several nodes so that if one or a few nodes fail, the information can be retrieved from another node.

[0034] The fact that the release configuration is "assigned" to an NFT should be understood in an abstract way. A wide variety of assignment modalities are possible. As already mentioned, the corresponding program code can be written directly into the blockchain or stored on the corresponding network storage and referenced by the link. It is also possible for the vehicle manufacturer to identify different vehicle functions or release configurations with an individual and unique identifier. For example, this could be an ID. This identifier can then be written, for example, as plaintext into the blockchain itself or into the metadata in the network storage. The actual program code can then be stored in a protected memory of the central computing facility, inaccessible to the public.If the central computing device then reads the NFT in the user's wallet, the central computing device also reads the unique identifier of the release configuration and can read the digital data required to activate the vehicle function in the vehicle, in particular the aforementioned program code, from the protected memory.

[0035] The method according to the invention can further provide that the release configuration is assigned to the NFT in cryptographically encrypted form. After reading the user's wallet and obtaining the release configuration, the central computing device decrypts the release configuration and transmits the decrypted release configuration to the vehicle. This further improves the integrity of the program code underlying the release configuration and any media files, as well as cybersecurity when implementing the method according to the invention. Proven cryptographic encryption techniques can be used here, such as signature-based encryption using asymmetric key pairs.In particular, the program code of the release configuration can be cryptographically encrypted and written directly into the blockchain, into the NFT's metadata, or stored on a corresponding central or decentralized network storage referenced by the metadata. This also prevents the "theft" of the program code by third parties. To decrypt the encrypted release configuration, the central computing device requires a corresponding private key, which it already possesses as the encrypting element of the release configuration's program code. The communication between the central computing device and the vehicle can also be encrypted, so that, in a broader sense, the decrypted release configuration is encrypted again and then decrypted in the vehicle.This also prevents data from being intercepted during data exchange between the central computing device and the vehicle.

[0036] The temporary transfer of a vehicle function from a first vehicle to a second vehicle represents an interesting use case. For example, a first person could be the owner and operator of a specific vehicle function. A second person could own a similar vehicle to the first person and want to test how the first person's vehicle function works on their own vehicle. It is also conceivable that the second person would like to use the first person's vehicle function for a longer period of time, for example, during a vacation trip.

[0037] To carry out the method according to the invention, various possibilities are possible as to how the first user can grant ownership of the vehicle function, which will be discussed in more detail below.

[0038] An advantageous development of the method according to the invention provides that the vehicle function cannot be used by the first user as long as it is in the possession of the second user. By acquiring corresponding NFTs, the user acquires possession of the respective vehicle function underlying the NFT. If the user acquires the vehicle function from the vehicle manufacturer, the user also becomes the owner. By lending the vehicle function, the user remains the owner of the underlying vehicle function, but no longer owns it during the loan period. Depending on the design of the minting process for the respective NFT, it may be possible for the vehicle function to continue to be usable by the user even if ownership has been transferred; however, it may also be necessary to terminate the provision of the vehicle function in the first user's vehicle during the loan period.This prevents users from repeatedly lending out vehicle functions they have already acquired, thus eliminating the need for users to purchase vehicle functions from the vehicle manufacturer at all.

[0039] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the loan of the vehicle function is terminated if:

[0040] - the first user moves away from the second user's vehicle to a specified distance;

[0041] - a specified period of time elapses;

[0042] - the first user activates the vehicle function in his vehicle; and / or

[0043] - the second user's vehicle assumes a specified vehicle state.

[0044] This means that various boundary conditions are available that can be used to end the loan. Several boundary conditions can also be combined. For example, if the first and second users meet in a parking lot and the second user wants to test the first user's vehicle function on their own vehicle, it is particularly advantageous if the loan is automatically ended when the first user moves within a specified distance of the second user's vehicle. This prevents the second user, in particular, from "stealing" the first user's vehicle function, since if the second user simply drives away with their vehicle, the loan of the vehicle function is automatically ended.

[0045] There are various ways in which the second user's vehicle can monitor the distance of the first user. For example, the first user can carry a mobile device such as a smartphone, wearable, tablet computer, or the like, which is wirelessly linked to the second user's vehicle. If the wireless connection to the vehicle is lost, this can be interpreted as exceeding the specified distance. The first user could also be detected by the second user's vehicle's environmental sensors, thus clearly identifying the first user, for example, based on biometric characteristics. The first user could be located relative to the vehicle using depth information.

[0046] A particularly simple way is to automatically end the rental period when a set period of time has elapsed. In particular, the first user, i.e. the original owner of the vehicle function, sets the time period. The time period can be as long as desired and, for example, be on the order of a few minutes if the second user wants to test the vehicle function on their own vehicle. If, on the other hand, the first user wants to lend the vehicle function to the second user for a longer period of time, the first user can set a longer time window, such as a few days or weeks. The first user could also specify a specific time and calendar days to define the rental period.

[0047] The rental period can be designed particularly flexibly if the rental period ends automatically when the first user activates the vehicle function in their own vehicle. This way, the first user could generally not care how long the vehicle function is loaned out. Only when the first user wants to use the vehicle function themselves again will it be reactivated for them and automatically terminated for the second user.

[0048] Taking into account the vehicle condition of the second user, particularly comprehensive conditions can be specified that lead to the termination of the loan. The vehicle condition can be described by all recordable vehicle parameters, such as the number of operating hours, the total number of kilometers traveled with the vehicle, the kilometers traveled with the vehicle from a certain point in time, the current location of the vehicle, and the like. For example, the first user can specify that the loan should end automatically when the second user drives their vehicle 100 kilometers. The first user could also specify that the loan should remain in effect as long as the second user stays with their vehicle within a specified geographical area. If the second user leaves this geographical area with their vehicle, the loan is automatically terminated.To do this, the second user's vehicle can determine its location, for example, using a global navigation satellite system such as GPS, Galileo, or the like. The first user can define the permitted geographical area, for example, using a so-called geo-fence.

[0049] In an input mask, the first or second user can specify which termination conditions should be used to end the loan. Precise parameters, such as the specified time period, can be specified. The corresponding conditions can be entered into a smart contract that initiates the loan for automatic implementation, so that the loan is fully automated. This allows smart contracts to be created automatically without any programming knowledge.

[0050] According to a first alternative embodiment of the method according to the invention, a computing unit for starting the loan causes a loan NFT comprising an ownership smart contract to be minted, wherein the ownership smart contract specifies that after the consent of the first and second users, the loan NFT is sent to the wallet of the second user, wherein the central computing device treats loan NFTs like ownership NFTs, and wherein the ownership NFT remains in the wallet of the first user during the loan.

[0051] In order for the central computing device to transmit the release configuration to a vehicle, the central computing device must identify a corresponding NFT in the respective user's wallet. Loaned NFTs can be considered owned NFTs by the central computing device, so that if a user has a corresponding loaned NFT in their wallet, the central computing device will send a release configuration to the user's respective vehicle. Any computing unit can be used to initiate the loan, as long as at least the first and / or second user have linked their respective user account to the computing unit. Accordingly, an ownership smart contract is inserted into a block on one of the blockchains underlying the management of the NFTs, to which both the first and second users agree.After the first and second users have agreed, the ownership smart contract automatically generates the loan NFT and assigns it to the second user's wallet. However, the disadvantage of this is that the ownership NFT remains in the first user's wallet, so the first user can generally continue to use the vehicle function during the loan. This variant is particularly suitable for use cases where the first user wants to continue using the vehicle function during the loan.

[0052] In general, however, even with this variant, the use of the vehicle function could be restricted for the first user. For example, if a specific vehicle function is to be activated, the respective vehicles could first query the central computing unit to determine whether this is permitted. The central computing unit would then read the respective users' wallets or the blockchain. When a loan NFT is created, a unique reference to the actual property NFT can be assigned to it, particularly through a corresponding entry in the metadata. This clearly identifies loan NFTs as such. If the central computing unit then discovers the existence of such a loan NFT for a specific property NFT, the central computing unit can control the computing unit of the first user's vehicle to prevent the activation of the respective vehicle function.After the loan is completed, the loan NFT must be destroyed. Since data cannot be deleted from the blockchain, the loan NFT is automatically transferred to a wallet that no one has access to. An exception rule can then be stored in the program routine running on the central computing device so that loan NFTs stored in this wallet, referred to as a "sink," are disregarded when determining whether a proprietary NFT or the underlying vehicle function may be activated. This way, after the loan is completed, the first user can use their vehicle function again.

[0053] The constraints described above for terminating the loan can be written into the respective ownership smart contract, so that the ownership smart contract automatically terminates the loan when the corresponding constraints are met. For this purpose, corresponding smart contracts can also be implemented as so-called hybrid smart contracts in order to access data stored outside the blockchain. This data can be fed into the blockchain via a so-called blockchain oracle. This makes it particularly easy to verify that the specified time period has elapsed, as the end of the loan period can be written directly into the smart contract. Verifying the other constraints requires more effort. For example, the second user's vehicle must collect corresponding information describing the vehicle's condition and transmit it to the blockchain oracle.

[0054] In general, the second user can resell, re-lend, or give away the borrowed vehicle function, i.e., the loan NFT acquired in this way. However, as soon as the initial loan ends, ownership of the vehicle function is automatically transferred back to the first user, regardless of which user is currently in possession of the loan NFT. This is achieved, for example, by the central computing device checking the blockchain to determine whether a loan NFT associated with the ownership NFT is present in any wallet other than the sink wallet. If the loan NFT is in the sink wallet, ownership of the ownership NFT is deemed to be returned to the first user.

[0055] To avoid the central computing facility having to check the entire blockchain and thus every available wallet for the presence of corresponding loan NFTs, it is conceivable that the ownership smart contract ensures that the central computing facility is informed about the minting process when the loan NFT is minted, whereby the address, for example in the form of the public key of the wallet of the second user, is transmitted to the central computing facility.

[0056] According to an alternative embodiment of the method according to the invention, a computing unit causes a debt NFT comprising an ownership smart contract to be minted to initiate the loan, and the computing unit causes the ownership NFT to be transferred from the first user's wallet to the second user's wallet. The ownership smart contract specifies that, after the consent of the first and second users, the debt NFT is assigned to the first user's wallet and the ownership NFT is transferred from the first user's wallet to the second user's wallet. This is a particularly preferred embodiment of the method according to the invention, since the loan of the ownership NFT and the underlying vehicle function can be transparently traced by transferring the ownership NFT from the first user's wallet to the second user's wallet.Since the first user no longer owns the ownership NFT, they can no longer use the vehicle functions in their own vehicle. The owner of the ownership NFT, i.e., the second user during the loan, has full control over the ownership NFT and can also resell, lend, or give it away. As already described above, the ownership smart contract regulates the loan, so that after the corresponding termination condition of the loan is met, the ownership NFT is automatically transferred back to the first user's wallet. The first user can prove that they are the owner of the ownership NFT by presenting the debt NFT. Accordingly, the termination conditions of the loan can also be written into the ownership smart contract.

[0057] According to a further alternative embodiment of the method according to the invention, a computing unit transmits the start of the loan to the central computing device, whereupon the central computing device transmits the release configuration to the second user's vehicle, in particular by reconfiguring the hardware in the first vehicle. This allows the loan to be managed outside of the blockchain. The proprietary NFT thus remains in the wallet of the first user. Here, too, the first user can use any computing unit linked to their user account to start the loan. The computing unit is connected to a corresponding online portal provided by the central computing device. The computing unit can thus communicate to the central computing device in which vehicles the respective vehicle function described by the proprietary NFT should be activated and where it should be deactivated.For this purpose, the first user can provide the central computing device with a unique identifier for the second user or their vehicle. For example, this could be the vehicle identification number of the second user's vehicle or the second user's user account name. In general, it is conceivable for the central computing device to enable the vehicle function in both the first user's and the second user's vehicle. However, the vehicle function in the first user's vehicle is preferably terminated during the loan period. For this purpose, the hardware of the first user's vehicle is reconfigured. For this purpose, any configuration deviating from the enabled configuration can be loaded, in particular a standard configuration. For example, the first user can have a standard engine sound, a first optional sound, and a second optional sound.For example, the first user can lend the first optional sound to the second user, so that the first user can activate either the standard sound or the optional second engine sound during the loan period.

[0058] As soon as the respective termination condition of the loan is met, the central computing device reconfigures the hardware of the second user's vehicle and reconfigures the hardware of the first user's vehicle according to the release configuration. In other words, the vehicle function in the second user's vehicle is terminated and reactivated or reactivated in the first user's vehicle. This possible embodiment of the method according to the invention is characterized by increased privacy, since it is not publicly visible on the blockchain who can currently use which vehicle function. However, this can also be considered a disadvantage, since the respective ownership and property relationships are thus opaque to the public.

[0059] A further alternative embodiment of the method according to the invention further provides that a computing unit for initiating the loan causes a first escrow NFT, comprising a first escrow smart contract, and a second escrow NFT, comprising a second escrow smart contract, to be minted. Following the consent of the first and second users, the first escrow NFT is assigned to the first user's wallet and the second escrow NFT is assigned to the second user's wallet, and the proprietary NFT is transferred to a escrow wallet. The central computing unit treats second escrow NFTs like proprietary NFTs. For example, the escrow wallet can be managed by the vehicle manufacturer. During the loan, the proprietary NFT is transferred from the first user's wallet to the escrow wallet. The first user can prove that they continue to be the owner of the proprietary NFT by presenting the first escrow NFT.However, since the ownership NFT no longer remains in the first user's wallet during the loan period, but in the escrow wallet, the first user is no longer the owner of the ownership NFT and thus of the vehicle function during the loan period. The second user has the second escrow NFT in their wallet and can therefore be considered the owner of the ownership NFT during the loan period. This is possible because the central computing device considers corresponding second escrow NFTs to be actual ownership NFTs. Therefore, if the second user wants to activate the respective vehicle function, the central computing device checks whether the corresponding second escrow NFT is present in the second user's wallet. If this is the case, the central computing device transfers the release configuration to the second user's vehicle so that the vehicle function can be activated there.

[0060] In general, it is possible for the minting and transfer of the first and second escrow NFTs to be handled via a single, shared escrow smart contract. This shared escrow smart contract can be assigned to either the first user's wallet, the second user's wallet, or the escrow wallet.

[0061] As with the alternative implementations described above, the first, second, or joint escrow smart contract regulates the minting, transfer, and retransfer of the respective NFTs. In particular, the corresponding termination conditions of the loan are written into the respective escrow smart contract, enabling the automatic retransfer of the respective rights.

[0062] A further advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention further provides that a computing unit transfers at least one NFT and / or units of a cryptocurrency as collateral from the second user's wallet to the first user's wallet or an escrow wallet upon initiating the loan, wherein the computing unit, in particular, transfers the collateral back at the end of the loan. By transferring the collateral, the first user receives additional security that the borrowed proprietary NFT or the associated vehicle function will not be misused, in particular stolen. However, this would not be possible anyway due to the intrinsic security, monitored and regulated by the respective smart contracts.By checking a corresponding box in an input mask, the first user can, for example, specify that the vehicle function associated with their NFT may not be traded by other users. This hard boundary condition is then automatically written into the respective smart contract governing the loan. Since all transactions preferably run automatically on the respective blockchain, a Gur tradable via the respective blockchain is also used as collateral. This can therefore be units of a cryptocurrency underlying the respective blockchain or corresponding NFTs. These do not necessarily have to be NFTs for managing corresponding vehicle functions, but rather, for example, a digital work of art.A smart contract signed at the start of the loan can also specify what type of collateral (and the amount) should be transferred to initiate the loan. It can also be specified whether the collateral should be deposited in the first user's wallet or in the escrow wallet. This smart contract can also specify that the collateral should be automatically transferred back at the end of the loan period. This way, the second user is not at risk of the first user forgetting or maliciously omitting to return the collateral.

[0063] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, a second processing unit coupled to the user account of the second user transmits a code to a first processing unit coupled to the user account of the first user. The code comprises an identifier of the user account and the public address of the second user's wallet. The first processing unit then initiates the loan itself or requests the central processing unit. This allows for particularly convenient initiation of the loan.

[0064] To request the start of the loan from the central processing unit, the first processing unit transmits the following information: the identifier of the user account of the first and second users, the public address of the wallet of the first and second users, the vehicle function to be borrowed, and the corresponding termination conditions of the loan. Thus, the central processing unit has all the information required to define the respective loan.

[0065] A variety of options are possible for transmitting the coding from the second processing unit to the first processing unit. For example, both processing units can be linked wirelessly, for example via Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or the like. In particular, the first and second processing units can be linked indirectly via the Internet, in particular via the central computing device. For example, the second user can forward the identifier of their user account to the first user, who is logged into the vehicle manufacturer's online portal with their own user account. The first user enters the user account name of the second user into a corresponding input mask and selects the second user's vehicle and the vehicle function to be borrowed. The central computing device then initiates the start of the borrowing process by inserting corresponding transaction blocks on the blockchain.

[0066] In general, it is also conceivable that the first or second computing unit, after collecting the data required to carry out transactions, initiates the transfer or minting of the respective NFTs used to carry out the loan on the underlying blockchain itself, without involving the central computing device.

[0067] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the coding is implemented by an optoelectronic code and the first computing unit by a mobile device, wherein the first user scans the optoelectronic code with a visual detection device integrated in the mobile device, in particular a camera. To initiate the loan, the second computing unit can, for example, display the optoelectronic code on a display device in the second user's vehicle. The first user approaches the second user's vehicle and scans the displayed optoelectronic code, for example a barcode, matrix code, QR code, or the like, with the mobile device, for example a smartphone. A corresponding app is executed on the smartphone, which enables a connection of the mobile device to the central computing device.The information captured by the optoelectronic code is then forwarded from the mobile device to the central computing device. The first user is logged into the app with their own user account, allowing the central computing device to simultaneously determine from which user account the vehicle function or corresponding ownership NFT is to be borrowed. This makes it particularly easy to specify as a termination condition for the loan that the loan should end when the mobile device used to scan the optoelectronic code has moved within the specified distance from the second user's vehicle.

[0068] In an information technology system comprising a central computing device, a first vehicle, and a second vehicle, according to the invention the central computing device and the first and second vehicles are configured to carry out a method as described above. The vehicles can be any road vehicle such as a car, truck, van, bus, or the like. In general, they can also be a rail vehicle, watercraft, or aircraft. Communication between the respective vehicle and the central computing device can, in particular, be wireless. For this purpose, the central computing device can be connected to a network, in particular the Internet. The vehicle can have a telecommunications unit, usually referred to as a telematics unit. Such a telematics unit enables the vehicle's on-board electronics to be connected to the Internet via a mobile radio network.The user can also have a mobile device such as a smartphone, tablet computer, laptop, wearable, or the like, which can be connected to the vehicle via a cable or wireless connection and / or is also indirectly connected to the central computing device via the user's user account. The central computing device and, if necessary, the first and / or second computing unit are also connected to a cryptocurrency network capable of minting and sending corresponding NFTs. Thus, the central computing device or the first and / or second computing unit can form a computing node of this cryptocurrency network or be in communication with such a node. These can be any conceivable cryptocurrency network or cryptocurrencies already known. They can also be previously unknown and unprogrammed types of cryptocurrencies.In particular, smart contract standards or non-fungible token standards tailored specifically to the implementation of the method according to the invention can be redefined and established.

[0069] Further advantageous embodiments of the method according to the invention for enabling a vehicle function also emerge from the exemplary embodiments which are described in more detail below with reference to the figures.

[0070] Showing:

[0071] Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of the actors involved in the execution of a method according to the invention for activating a vehicle function;

[0072] Fig. 2 is a schematic representation of the reading of a code displayed on an in-vehicle display device;

[0073] Fig. 3 is a schematic representation of the reading of a code displayed on a smartphone; Fig. 4 is a schematic representation of the contents of various wallets during an execution of the method according to the invention;

[0074] Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of the content of a blockchain underlying the method according to the invention according to a first embodiment; and

[0075] Fig. 6 is a schematic representation of the content of the blockchain underlying the method according to the invention according to a second embodiment.

[0076] Figure 1 shows the actors involved in carrying out a method according to the invention for activating a vehicle function. Shown are a blockchain 8, a first wallet 4.1 and a second wallet 4.2 linked thereto, a central computing device 3, a first user 2.1 and a second user 2.2, as well as a first vehicle 1.1 and a second vehicle 1.2. Furthermore, the first and second users 2.1, 2.2 each have a mobile terminal 9. The first vehicle 1.1 and the first wallet 4.1 are assigned to the first user 2.1, and the second vehicle 1.2 and the second wallet 4.2 are assigned to the second user 2.2. The respective users 2.1, 2.2 are each registered with a personal user account on an (online) portal provided by the central computing device 3. For example, the respective user 2.1, 2.2 can use the portal via their respective mobile terminal 9.Registration on the portal can also be done via an internal vehicle computing unit (not shown in detail).

[0077] According to the invention, a vehicle function is assigned as a digital asset to an NFT that can be traded on the blockchain 8 by executing transactions. To issue or use the vehicle function in a respective vehicle 1.1, 1.2, the respective hardware of the vehicle 1.1, 1.2 must be configured using an enabling configuration. The enabling configuration can be transmitted wirelessly from the central computing device 3 to the respective vehicles 1.1, 1.2.

[0078] In the exemplary embodiments described in the figures, the first user 2.1 purchases a corresponding vehicle function from the vehicle manufacturer. A proprietary NFT (NFT-EIG) is thus assigned to the wallet 4.1 of the first user 2.1 (see in particular Figures 4 to 6). Thus, the first user 2.1 possesses the respective vehicle function and is also its owner. The central computing device 3 reads the wallet 4.1 of the first user 2.1 and thereby recognizes that the vehicle function underlying the proprietary NFT (NFT-EIG) can be used by the first user 2.1. The central computing device 3 then transmits said release configuration to the vehicle 1.1 of the first user 2.1. The first user 2.1 can now use the corresponding vehicle function.

[0079] According to the invention, the first user 2.1 is able to sublet the acquired vehicle function. In the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures, the first user 2.1 sublets the vehicle function to the second user 2.2. During the sublet period, the first user 2.1 remains the owner of the vehicle function, while the vehicle function becomes the property of the second user 2.2.

[0080] Figures 2 and 3 illustrate how a respective lending process can be started. Figure 2 shows a view of an in-vehicle display device 10 of the second vehicle 1.2. An optoelectronic code 7, here embodied as a QR code, is displayed on the display device 10. The optoelectronic code 7 represents a coding 6, which in turn comprises at least one identifier of the user account of the second user 2.2 as well as the public address of the wallet 4.2 of the second user 2.2, in particular the public key, also referred to as the public key. The optoelectronic code 7 is captured by the first user 2.1 using their mobile device 9, here in the form of a smartphone. The mobile device 9 of the first user 2.1 is logged on to the portal of the central computing device 3 and can thus transmit all the information required to start the lending to the central computing device 3.initiate a corresponding transaction to start the loan on the blockchain 8 itself. Furthermore, Figure 2 shows additional GUI elements 12.

[0081] Figure 3 illustrates a similar embodiment, in which, however, instead of the vehicle-internal display device 10, the mobile terminal 9 of the second utility 2.2 is used to display the optoelectronic code 7.

[0082] The invention describes four alternative embodiments of how the loan of the vehicle function can be implemented in practice. These four embodiments are described using sub-figures 4a) to 4d). The wallets 4.1 and 4.2 of the first and second users 2.1 and 2.2 are shown, respectively. Figure 4d) also shows an escrow wallet 4.3.

[0083] According to a first embodiment shown in Figure 4a), the ownership NFT NFT-EIG remains in the wallet 4.1 of the first user 2.1 during the loan. A computing unit causes the minting of a loan NFT NFT-LEIH, which comprises an ownership smart contract SC-BES and is assigned to the wallet 4.2 of the second user 2.2. The computing unit can be the central computing device 3 or a first or a second computing unit. The first computing unit is used by the first user 2.1 and the second computing unit by the second user 2.2. For example, the first computing unit is integrated into the first vehicle 1.1 and the second computing unit into the second vehicle 1.2. The central computing device 3 treats loan NFTs NFT-LEIH like ownership NFTs NFT-EIG, so that the second user 2.2 is also authorized to use the vehicle function in their vehicle 1.2.The boundary conditions taken into account for initiating and, in particular, for terminating the loan are regulated by the ownership smart contract SC-BES.

[0084] Figure 4b) shows a second alternative embodiment. A processing unit executes a transaction to transfer the ownership NFT NFT-EIG from the wallet 4.1 of the first user 2.1 to the wallet 4.2 of the second user 2.2. Thus, the first user 2.1 transfers ownership of the ownership NFT NFT-EIG and thus of the vehicle function to the second user 2.2. However, the first user 2.1 remains the owner of the vehicle function, which is verified by a debt NFT NFT-SLD. The debt NFT NFT-SLD is assigned to the wallet 4.1 of the first user 2.1. The debt NFT NFT-SLD includes an ownership smart contract SC-EIG, which also regulates the framework conditions of the loan. Thus, the ownership smart contract SC-EIG specifies at least the boundary conditions under which the loan is initiated. Preferably, the smart contract also includes the respective conditions for terminating the loan. Since the property NFT NFT-EIG is now in the possession of the second user 2.2, the user can use the vehicle function. However, the property NFT NFT-EIG is no longer in the possession of the first user 2.2, so they cannot use the vehicle function. Figure 4c) illustrates a third possible embodiment. The property NFT NFT-EIG remains in the wallet 4.1 of the first user 2.1. In this case, the central computing device 3 regulates the lending itself. Thus, the central computing device 3 has the information about which vehicle function is being loaned by which user to which other user. Accordingly, the central computing device 3 can control the respective vehicles 1.1, 1.2 to activate or deactivate the vehicle function.

[0085] Figure 4d) shows a fourth alternative embodiment of the method according to the invention. To initiate the loan, a computing unit causes a first and second escrow NFT NFT-TH1, NFT-TH2 to be minted. The first escrow NFT NFT-TH1 comprises a first escrow smart contract SC-TH1, and the second escrow NFT NFT-TH2 comprises a second escrow smart contract SC-TH2. Generally, it is also conceivable that only one escrow smart contract is generated (not shown). The respective smart contracts also regulate the loan. The ownership NFT NFT-EIG is transferred from the wallet 4.1 of the first user 2.1 to the escrow wallet 4.3. For example, the escrow wallet 4.3 can be managed by the vehicle manufacturer. Thus, the first user 2.1 loses possession of the property NFT NFT-EIG, but remains the owner, as indicated by the first escrow NFT NFT-TH1. For the second user 2.2 can use the vehicle function during the loan, they receive the second escrow NFT NFT-TH2 in their wallet 4.2. Similar to the case described in Figure 4a), the central computing device 3 considers the second escrow NFT NFT-TH2 to be the owned NFT NFT-EIG. If the loan is now terminated, in particular because a corresponding termination condition is met, the transfer of the owned NFT NFT-EIG back to wallet 4.1 is initiated. Furthermore, the two escrow NFTs NFT-TH1 and NFT-TH2 are invalidated. For this purpose, the two escrow NFTs NFT-TH1 and NFT-TH2 can, for example, be transferred to a sink wallet to which no one has access.

[0086] Figure 5 shows a similar representation for the case shown in Figure 4a). This symbolically illustrates the content written into blocks 11 of blockchain 8. The proprietary NFT NFT-EIG remains in the wallet 4.1 of the first user 2.1. A corresponding smart contract SC is appended to blockchain 8 as an entry in a block 11, which links the two wallets 4.1 and 4.2. The corresponding loan NFT NFT-LEIH is stored in wallet 4.2, which includes a reference to the digital asset of the proprietary NFT NFT-EIG. In this embodiment, however, the smart contract SC is assigned to wallet 4.1.

[0087] Figure 6 illustrates a case similar to the one shown in Figure 4b). A pledge 5 is assigned to wallet 4.1. The ownership NFT NFT-EIG is transferred from wallet 4.1 to wallet 4.2. Pledge 5 can be any conceivable NFT or units of a cryptocurrency tradable via blockchain 8 that were previously owned by the second user 2.2. In a broader sense, pledge 5 can also be the debt NFT NFT-SLD.

Claims

Patent claims 1. A method for enabling a vehicle function, wherein the vehicle function can be provided via the hardware of a vehicle (1.1, 1.2), the hardware is configured by software, and wherein the vehicle function is provided by the hardware when the hardware is configured according to a release configuration, characterized in that - a first user (2.1) of the vehicle (1.1) logs on to a central computing device (3) with a user account; - the first user (2.1) links his wallet (4.1) to the user account; - the central computing device (3) initiates the minting of an ownership NFT (NFT-EIG), whereby the release configuration is assigned to the ownership NFT (NFT-EIG) as a digital asset; - the central computing device (3) causes the property NFT (NFT-EIG) to be assigned to the wallet (4.1) of the first user (1.1), so that the first user (1.1) owns the vehicle function underlying the property NFT (NFT-EIG); - the central computing device (3) reads the NFTs stored in the wallet (4.1); - the central computing device (3) obtains the respective release configurations for NFTs stored in the wallet (4.1) and transmits them to the vehicle (1.1); and - the first user (2.1) temporarily transfers ownership of the vehicle function to a second user (2.2) on loan, whereby the first user (2.1) remains the owner of the vehicle function.

2. Method according to claim 1, characterized in that the vehicle function cannot be used by the first user (2.1) as long as it is in possession of of the second user (2.2).

3. Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the loan of the vehicle function is terminated when: - the first user (2.1) moves to a specified distance from the vehicle (1.2) of the second user (2.2); - a specified period of time elapses; - the first user (2.1) activates the vehicle function in his vehicle (1.1); and / or - the vehicle (1.2) of the second user (2.2) assumes a specified vehicle state.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that a computing unit for starting the loan causes a loan NFT (NFT-LEIH) comprising an ownership smart contract (SC-BES) to be minted, wherein the ownership smart contract (SC-BES) specifies that, after the consent of the first (2.1) and second user (2.2), the loan NFT (NFT-LEIH) is sent to the wallet (4.2) of the second user (2.2), wherein the central computing device (3) treats loan NFTs (NFT-LEIH) like ownership NFTs (NFT-EIG), and wherein the ownership NFT (NFT-EIG) remains in the wallet (4.1) of the first user (2.1) during the loan.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that a computing unit for initiating the loan causes a debt NFT (NFT-SLD) comprising an ownership smart contract (SC-EIG) to be minted and causes the ownership NFT (NFT-EIG) to be transferred from the wallet (4.1) of the first user (2.1) to the wallet (4.2) of the second user (2.2), wherein the ownership smart contract (SC-EIG) specifies that, after the consent of the first (2.1) and second user (2.2), the debt NFT (NFT-SLD) is assigned to the wallet (4.1) of the first user (2.1) and the ownership NFT (NFT-EIG) is transferred from the wallet (4.1) of the first user (2.1) to the wallet (4.2) of the second user (2.2). becomes.

6. Method according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that a computing unit transmits the start of the loan to the central computing device (3), whereupon the central computing device (3) transmits the release configuration to the vehicle (1.2) of the second user (2.2), in particular by reconfiguring the hardware in the first vehicle (1.1).

7. Method according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that a computing unit for starting the loan causes a first escrow NFT (NFT-TH1), comprising a first escrow smart contract (SC-TH1), and a second escrow NFT (NFT-TH2), comprising a second escrow smart contract (SC-TH2), to be minted, wherein, after the consent of the first (2.1) and second user (2.2), the first escrow NFT (NFT-TH1) is assigned to the wallet (4.1) of the first user (2.1) and the second escrow NFT (NFT-TH2) is assigned to the wallet (4.2) of the second user (2.2), and the property NFT (NFT-EIG) is transferred to a escrow wallet (4.3), wherein the central computing device (3) second escrow NFTs (NFT-TH2) such as property NFTs (NFT-EIG) is treated.

8. Method according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that a computing unit causes the transfer of at least one NFT and / or units of a cryptocurrency as a deposit (5) from the wallet (4.2) of the second user (2.2) to the wallet (4.1) of the first user (2.1) or a trust wallet (4.3) when initiating the loan, wherein the computing unit in particular causes the return transfer of the deposit (5) at the end of the loan.

9. Method according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that a second computing unit coupled to the user account of the second user (2.2) transmits a code (6) to a first computing unit coupled to the user account of the first user (2.1), wherein the code (6) contains an identifier of the user account and the public address of the wallet (4.2) of the second user (2.2), whereupon the first computing unit initiates the start of the loan itself or requests it from the central computing device (3).

10. The method according to claim 9, characterized in that the coding (6) is formed by an optoelectronic code (7) and the first computing unit by a mobile terminal (9), wherein the first user (2.1) scans the optoelectronic code (7) with a visual detection device, in particular a camera, integrated in the mobile terminal (9).

11. Information technology system, comprising a central computing device (3), a first vehicle (1.1) and a second vehicle (1.2), characterized in that the central computing device (3) and the first (1.1) and second vehicle (1.2) are set up to carry out a method according to one of claims 1 to 10.

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