Vehicle data acquisition and access system and method

Abstract

To provide systems, methods, and a computer program to acquire, transfer, process, and archive vehicle data including events, status, and historical data.SOLUTION: A system includes a vehicle data computing device or module, and one or more cloud servers / services, and can communicate with one or more remote user computing devices. The vehicle computing module can store every function the vehicle performs, every error code, and a myriad of other relevant data. That data can then be communicated or transferred to an accessible cloud server. In certain embodiments, system users can include vehicle vendors, departments of motor vehicles (DMVs), insurance companies, consumers, government agencies, vehicle repair facilities / technicians, and the like.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (Priority) This application is a continuation of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 615,095, filed January 9, 2018, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 2018 / 0110944. This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 746,699, filed October 17, 2003. No. 6,299,799, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The present invention generally captures vehicle data, including event, status, and history data. , METHODS, AND COMPUTER PROGRAMS FOR TRANSFERING, PROCESSING, AND ARCHIVED DATA - Patent application Regarding Ram. [Background technology]

[0003] Proposed or planned legislation in the United States and other countries is a matter of concern. We conduct "health checks" at both the receiving and handover of vehicles to ensure that we are addressing Possibility of requiring vehicle repair facilities (e.g., mechanical, auto body, etc.) to perform "checks" This is a major business change in the field of vehicle repair. Therefore, OEMs are D-II and other board diagnostics) and scan-in / scan-out health checks by the system We are promoting this initiative.

[0004] How the current storage and access of relevant vehicle data and what data is accessible The types of vehicles required are very limited, fragmented and decentralized. Access to data is restricted, compromising the accuracy of vehicle data.

[0005] Therefore, a wide range of relevant and important vehicle data is collected, processed, archived and verified. There is a need for new and improved systems and methods for searching and retrieving. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The system and method of the present invention overcomes currently existing challenges in vehicle data acquisition and transmission. Certain embodiments of the system address many of the inherent deficiencies of events, states, and Vehicle data such as vehicle status and historical data can be acquired (e.g., via a cloud system). The system is configured to retrieve, process and archive vehicle-related information. Real-time or event-based vehicle tracking to facilitate the use of verifiable and accurate historical information Both data acquisitions are provided.

[0007] The system of the present invention includes a vehicle data computing device or module, or multiple cloud servers / services, with one or more remote users It can communicate with a user computing device, for example, a vehicle computer. The programming module records all the functions the vehicle performs, all error codes, and other It can store a large amount of relevant data, which is then stored on an accessible cloud server. In certain embodiments, users of the system may , vehicle vendors, Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV), insurance companies, consumers, government agencies, vehicle repair facilities / This may include engineers, etc.

[0008] In an embodiment of the present invention, vehicle repair history, sales information, and vehicle records are maintained. For other document types, reasonably, lawfully, compiled information for public consumption To provide this, an immutable and secure network can be implemented. , which may include the adoption of certain data security technologies, such as blockchain technology .

[0009] These and other aspects and embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. . [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate various embodiments of the present disclosure. 1 illustrates a method for manufacturing a semiconductor device according to the present invention, and is provided to enable those skilled in the art to make and use the embodiments disclosed herein. The principles of the present disclosure are further explained in conjunction with the detailed description of the invention. Numbers may indicate identical or functionally similar elements. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating hardware and software aspects of a vehicle data acquisition and access system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram of a user device communicating and receiving vehicle data via a vehicle data computing module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram of a user device communicating and receiving vehicle data via a cloud service or server, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating vehicle data acquisition and access software integration and use in a vehicle repair facility, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating vehicle data acquisition and access software integration and use in a vehicle repair facility, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram of a vehicle manufacturer's user device communicating through a cloud service or server to receive vehicle data, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram of an agency user device communicating and receiving vehicle data via a cloud service or server, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram of an insurance company user device communicating through a cloud service or server to receive vehicle data, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram of a consumer user device communicating and receiving vehicle data via a cloud service or server, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram of a vehicle owner's user device communicating and receiving vehicle data via a vehicle data computing module, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram of a repair technician user device communicating and receiving vehicle data via a vehicle data computing module according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Referring generally to FIGS. 1-11, exemplary systems, devices, methods, and computer programs are shown. The program, or software application system, monitors vehicle events, conditions, and Retrieve, process, and archive (e.g., via cloud systems) the data and historical data The system 100 utilizes verifiable and accurate historical information about the vehicle. Provide real-time or event-based vehicle data acquisition to facilitate This confirms that the industry's current focus is now on the interpolation of auto repair information. It is being done.

[0012] The system 100 of the present invention provides event-based or scheduled collection of information or data. This data is collected from the vehicle's "birth" to its "death" Provides reliable and accurate vehicle history, uninterrupted and unedited, right up to the end As described in detail herein, one or more electronic vehicle modules (e.g., A vehicle identification number (linked to the VIN) is provided with the vehicle and all relevant information about the vehicle is The information is shared between the vehicle and one or more remote servers, such as a cloud server, for controlled access. The software and analyzer of the present invention may be stored in a remote server or It can communicate with systems (e.g., OBD-II).

[0013] 1, in various embodiments, a system 100 can include a vehicle data computing device or module 102 (e.g., an archive computer), one or more cloud servers / services 104 (e.g., an archive cloud), and one or more user systems or devices 106. The vehicle module 102 communicates with the vehicle's Controller Area Network (CAN) bus / network, its Electronic Control Unit (ECU) devices, and other on-board computing devices. Enable Connected, ValidThe module 102 communicates with the cloud server 104 via one or more networks or communication elements C (e.g., cellular, satellite, internet, transponder, or other wireless or wired communication means or protocols). Communication or data transfer via elements C can include the use of the AWS platform, SDK tools, remote management protocols (e.g., SSH (secure shell)), and myriad other tools, protocols, and platforms. Each of the user devices, systems, and servers of the present invention can both receive vehicle data from and originate / transmit vehicle data to other devices, systems, and servers of the system 100, as well as process and analyze that data.

[0014] A specific software application is used to describe the processing of data, device communication, and The cloud service 104 and the module 102 include Furthermore, the cloud service 104 includes a VHDB (Vehicle History Database) 104a and a tag A timeframe or temporal database 104b is provided in the module 102, and a VHDB 102a and time frame database 102b.

[0015] The system 100 includes a cloud service 104 and a module 102. ValidThe cloud service 104 provides for interaction with various users 112, 114, who interact through computing devices or systems to enable communication. In particular embodiments, users 112 may include vendors, DMVs, insurance companies, consumers, agencies, etc. These users 112 may access the cloud database with a VIN or a batch of VINs. Users 114 may include individuals, vehicle owners, service technicians, repair shops, etc. Users 114 may access all data in a local database within the vehicle. In various embodiments, the local vehicle database will only contain a single VIN for the subject vehicle itself. Communication between users 112 and the cloud service 104 may be facilitated by various interfaces, web pages, protocols, mobile or desktop applications, login requirements, and APIs in one or more linking elements 108, which may include communication over the Internet. These interface configurations facilitate communication between users 114 and the module 102 and / or cloud service 104. Valid Facilitated communication may also be provided via one or more linking elements 110. Again, various interfaces, web pages, protocols, mobile or desktop applications, login requirements, and APIs may be employed. Interfacing via elements 110 may similarly be facilitated by hardware devices (e.g., key fobs), information systems (e.g., infotainment), etc.

[0016] The device 106 communicates with the server 104 to transmit and receive the referenced example vehicle data. Valid Communications can take place and the software (e.g., CCC One™, Mitchell™, System 100 software, etc.) can be run on a variety of computing hardware, such as tablets, desktop or mobile computing devices, OBD-II scanners, etc.

[0017] Exemplary data that can be retrieved, processed, and archived include current and true online odometer readings, gauges or vehicle systems, system warnings, current and past GP S location, maintenance information, accident or damage information, repairs and public This may include, but is not limited to, technical inspections, vehicle performance data, vehicle operation and functionality data, etc. This data may be stored in multiple locations in various embodiments of the present invention. First, the module 102 can store data in the target vehicle. Therefore, vehicle owners / operators, technicians, law enforcement or other agencies may request that the vehicle be inspected for any previous work / repairs. direct access to authentic information, performance history, and other relevant vehicle data Second, this data can be uploaded to the cloud server 104 and Allows client users (e.g., service subscribers) to access information in a variety of ways This allows for multiple potential revenue streams, as described in more detail herein. produce.

[0018] FIG. 2-11 illustrates a communication between the vehicle module 102, the user devices 112, 114, and the cloud server 104. The system 100 includes data processing, hardware architecture, software applications, The application, interface, and upload and download methods are illustrated and explained. It is clear.

[0019] As shown in FIG. 2, the user device 114 communicates with the vehicle module 102 via one or more interface elements 110 such that the vehicle module 102 processes, stores, and / or presents vehicle data. Enable The module 102 communicates with the cloud service 104 via one or more communication links C.

[0020] To facilitate this processing and data transmission, we use Crontab Scheduler (trademark), Python (trademark) Various scripts, scheduling, etc., such as PHP scripts and Web server protocols. and other communication and processing languages / protocols. , a user device 114, such as an individual or repair facility / technician, may instead provide the following information or Get data (item menus, OEM documents, OEM repair manuals, relevant vehicle data, etc.) It is possible.

[0021] Referring to FIG. 3, a user device 112 may communicate with a cloud service 104 via one or more linking elements 108. Enable The cloud server 104 is in communication with the vehicle module 102 via one or more communication elements C. Enable Additionally, the vehicle module 102 communicates with the cloud service 104 via one or more communication links C using various publicly available scripts, scheduling tools, and other communication and processing languages / protocols to facilitate processing and data transmission. The user device 114 may also run or execute repair facility software to retrieve relevant vehicle data on its behalf, scan vehicles in and out, and generate the final invoice.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 4, the interaction of the software processes of the system 100 with the vehicle repair facility is shown in the following example: In one embodiment, a software application / app (e.g., For example, the Archive App 120 can be used on desktop computers, tablets, and smartphones. including smartphones, technicians' handheld computing devices, and cloud servers. Running or operating on any of the computing devices described herein The software 120 can retrieve profiles, execute jobs by customers and insurance companies. Controlled access to project / work data, bringing parties together for a better repair experience Direct access to social media style platforms to promote and Enables direct chat or communication (video, text, or voice) The chat feature provides tracking of customer profiles for communicating with customers through the software 120. and other devices such as mobile devices, desktop computing devices, and tablets. Two-way communication allows technicians and repair facilities to communicate with each other's computing devices. This is facilitated between the office (e.g., front office), the technician, or any other Users can enjoy hands-free note-taking, voice note-taking, intelligent speech recognition and natural language The ability to employ language understanding services (e.g., Alexa (trademark), Siri (trademark), etc.) It may further include the function.

[0023] It can include a digital workspace 122 with digital job "pods" These pods may be shared or centralized workspaces within a cloud (such as cloud server 104). a workspace, or a user device and computing system as disclosed herein enable the processing and storage of vehicle data on any of the systems and devices, for example: The tasks associated with these digital job pods include repair order documentation, customer / vendor support, and communication with suppliers, interactions with back / front office facilities, and supplemental repairs. authorization, and vehicle repair, tracking, and overall use of vehicle data and vehicle services. This can facilitate many other related tasks and communications. A common communication platform for new products, quotes, approvals, surveys, parts ordering, etc. This provides a platform for repair and vehicle facility employees, insurance companies, and parts suppliers. This enables seamless communication with OEMs, customers, etc. Communicate constantly through messaging (e.g., voice, text) and notifications (e.g., mobile notifications) This can save valuable time. For example, repair and other vehicle workshops can Use these chat / pod features to collaborate with the estimator for approval This allows for faster repair and turnaround times. Generally, better results (e.g. more / higher sales), fewer cancelled bookings This results in reduced costs, increased efficiency, higher customer satisfaction, and improved quality control.

[0024] In certain embodiments, a first digital pod is created when the vehicle arrives at the repair facility. This allows tracking of every aspect of the work or job being performed on the vehicle. Job data may be in communication and integrated into various accounting software. or data can be accessed from the vehicle module 102, repair procedures, parts lists, This can be used to outline the parts order, costs, etc. Enables tracking of vehicle operations and procedures, creating an audit trail with date and time stamps Facilitates better job status tracking. Digital workspace 122 Correct disruptions and delays caused by part or task states.

[0025] Vehicle repair facility F provides various user device, system, and accounting access or integration (e.g., QuickBooks™) through a server that provides quotes for vehicle parts. ,various task and station events during the repair and service process (e.g., teardown stations, assembly stations, car wash stations, paint booths, etc.) Interact with the system 100 and software 120 by tracking, updating, and processing It can be used.

[0026] FIG. 5 illustrates a front office 115a and various exemplary stations for the software 120. Integration, tracking, and procedural steps (e.g., between the project / tasks 115b-115d) A diagram showing the myriad of vehicle service and repair projects. The following objects are contemplated for integration with the software 120 of the present invention, and in certain embodiments: Teardown Station 115b, Mechanical / Body Repair Station 115c, and Paint Shop This may include, but is not limited to, integration with station 115d.

[0027] 6-9 illustrate the communication and 6 illustrates an example of an interaction between the server 104 and the Genesis Block (the first block of encrypted blockchain data), Vehicle VIN, vehicle make and model, date and time, recording type, OBD-II response, and 1 illustrates a vehicle manufacturer device 112 of the present invention 100 receiving a vehicle manufacturer's instruction manual (instruction manual).

[0028] In the embodiment of FIG. 7, a government device 112, such as a DMV, receives a genesis block, a transaction Transaction count, current vehicle owner profile ID, vehicle VIN, vehicle make and It shows that you can receive the model, date and time, record type, and description. are.

[0029] FIG. 8 illustrates the following information that the insurance company device 112 may receive in an exemplary embodiment: Data (Genesis Block, Current Owner Profile ID, Job ID, Vehicle VIN, Vehicle Provide a diagram of the device (make and model, date and time, record type, and description).

[0030] In the embodiment of FIG. 9, the consumer device 112 receives from the cloud server 104 Contains the following information (Genesis Block, Vehicle VIN, Vehicle Make and Model, Date) and time, recording type, and description). , 114 and the cloud server 104. Similarly, the embodiment of FIG. 9 allows for internet access via web login or a mobile app. 1 further illustrates communication and data access via the

[0031] 10-11 illustrate the communication between a user device 114, such as a vehicle owner and repair technician device, and the vehicle computing module 102. Valid Demonstrates communication and interaction 。Access and communication between device 114 and module 102 can be facilitated via key fob access, a technician's scanner or device 106, etc. Data or information returned to the vehicle repair facility technician or vehicle owner can include the following: genesis block, all data for the vehicle, vehicle VIN, owner information (e.g., corrected), vehicle make and model, date and time, record type, OBD-II code, description, etc.

[0032] The following are examples of those who would benefit from access to the data and information provided by the system 100 of the present invention: An example list of various users, companies, institutions, and other entities that may be obtained This is a guide / table that explains how to use the system and whether you have paid subscriptions or It details the revenue streams associated with the use of the system 100 via vent access. The list is not exhaustive and does not include other entities accessing and using related data. The method is envisioned for the system 100. [Table 1] TIFF0007720378000002.tif159170

[0033] The system 100 of the present invention sells vehicle data software to numerous entities, Collect periodic payments or dues (e.g., monthly, quarterly, annually, etc.) for our services The system 100 can collect and store data for each transaction. This allows you to review the vehicle's current and historical data. You can earn commission from any person / entity.

[0034] In certain embodiments of the system 100, the vehicle's repair history, sales information, and vehicle records are For other document types for record keeping, the compiled information may reasonably and lawfully be made available to the public. An immutable and secure network can be implemented to provide for consumption. One or more control points may be included in the system 100 and / or software 120. The key point is flexible smart contracts (e.g., those used in blockchain technology). You can develop and use one or more report functions (e.g., blocks) The system 100 is configured as follows: , the enhanced security, privacy, and access control features disclosed herein Without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, Other system configurations and techniques can be employed to facilitate automation.

[0035] Such an embodiment of the system 100 may include: (1) separate engines from various sectors of the transportation system; Grouping entities together in a way that is consistent with the record-keeping paradigm, giving them stakes and (2) providing immutability and security options for data creation and storage; Increase security to a level that is gaining traction in the industry.

[0036] The central data repository is distributed and partitioned in a shared manner among distributed nodes, with different functions. Create a mart contract type to process, store, present, and monetize transactions. This will allow the next generation of platforms to move to a more scalable and secure environment that is not susceptible to hacking. Provide platform shift.

[0037] This ecosystem of secure connectivity and backend cryptographic trust (e.g. blockchain) With this system, vehicle information is generated in an automated manner, invisible to the vehicle owner. The stored data will include information about the current system 100 and the vehicle's history. To ensure the information is genuine, the owner information has been removed for public consumption. Sensitive data collected in connection with PAI, PII, or similar regulations may be subject to relative to assist in investigations, be appropriately protected and preserved for legal proceedings, if necessary, and be made publicly available It will never be opened.

[0038] Insurance companies, state and federal agencies, the NTSB, OEMs, and others have access to various types of vehicle records. will benefit from the availability of accurate, automated data on Systems technology allows insurance companies to gain visibility into risk factors that were previously unavailable. This may be the most beneficial as it can significantly increase sexuality.

[0039] This security-based embodiment of the present invention addresses key touchpoints of vehicle ownership. Provide greater automation of data collection routines to collect consistent information about Automotive OEMs and repair industries will implement new procedural standards that will be directly adopted by System 100. This makes the implementation transparent, error-resistant, and easy to implement. 100% Developed by Repair Equipment Scanner Manufacturers (e.g., Matco™, Snap-on™) (e.g., CCC Information Services™, Mi Integrated software with automatic updates thanks to industry partnerships with techno- ... hardware solutions are provided, and stricter data protection and privacy policies are in place. Enable compliance.

[0040] As mentioned above, the various devices or computing systems 102, 106, 112, 1 14, including aspects of the system 100, computation, storage events, and algorithmic processing The computing system of the present invention is configured to process and execute The device may include a processor, which may include one or more microprocessors. and / or one or more circuits, e.g., application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), field The device may include a programmable gate array (FPGA), etc. The network interface may include a wired and / or wireless connections to connect to a network (such as the Internet), other devices, It is configured to enable communication with other services, systems, and servers.

[0041] The device or computing system includes memory, such as non-transitive memory. This may include one or more non-volatile storage devices and / or one or more volatile storage devices. The device may include a microprocessor (e.g., a random access memory (RAM)). In an example including a microprocessor, the computer readable program code may be stored in a storage medium. hard disk or solid state drive), memory device (e.g. computer-readable media such as random access memory and flash memory The information may be stored in, but is not limited to, a computer or memory. Data programs or software code are tangible or non-transitive, machine-readable In some embodiments, the data may be stored on a computer-readable medium or memory. When the readable program code is executed by a processor, the code The steps described and depicted above and herein may be performed by a computing device. In other embodiments, the device can be configured to operate as described herein without the need for a cord. It is configured to perform the steps set forth in the specification.

[0042] These operations, algorithms, logic, method steps, routines, subroutines, and and modules are provided to comply with the spirit and scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims. Software, firmware, special-purpose digital logic without departing from the scope , and any combination thereof. It will be done.

[0043] Certain computing devices disclosed herein may include input devices. Input devices may be used in connection with various user interfaces or data inputs. As disclosed in the specification, Examples of input devices include: , keyboard, mouse, microphone, touchscreen, and interaction with touchscreen The device includes software that enables the use of the device. Examples of output devices include displays, televisions, and mobile devices. Examples include a screen, tablet screen, speakers, and a remote screen. The display can display images, media files, text, or video, and can also provide speaker output. It can be configured to play sounds to the user through the

[0044] The disclosed server system 104 of the present invention includes one or more microprocessors and / or or one or more circuits, such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), field programmable The network interface may include a wired or and / or wirelessly to connect to the devices or computers disclosed herein. can be configured to allow communication with a network, including communication with a wireless device The memory may consist of one or more non-volatile storage devices and / or one or more volatile storage devices. The server system may include a number of devices (e.g., random access memory (RAM)). In an example where the system includes a microprocessor, the computer readable program code may be , storage media (e.g., hard disks or solid-state drives), memory devices The information may be stored on a computer-readable medium, such as, but not limited to, a It is not something that can be done.

[0045] Aspects of the present invention are directed to a server 104 or other computing device 102, 105, 112, 11 4 (e.g., vehicle modules, desktops, tablets, smartphones, professional technicians) The present invention can be embodied as software code residing on a computer (e.g., a computer device). Data can be stored in a storage area network (SAN), data cloud, or database. or any computing device for storing or uploading files. may be included in and transferred to or from files that are uploaded, downloaded, or processed. can.

[0046] The software code aspects of the present invention may take the form of a plug-in or an app. APIs or other means of interacting with computing software and systems It can interface with a variety of protocols or software that use

[0047] While various embodiments have been described above, they have been presented by way of example only. It should be understood that the scope of the present disclosure is not intended to be limiting. The scope should not be limited by any of the exemplary embodiments described above. Unless otherwise stated herein or clearly contradicted by context, all Any combination of the above-described elements in any possible variation thereof is encompassed by this disclosure. will be done.

[0048] Although methods, steps, and processes have been illustrated in the figures and described above as a sequence of steps, This is done for illustration purposes only; therefore, some steps may be added. Some steps may be omitted, and the order of the steps may be rearranged. It is contemplated that some steps may be performed in parallel.

[0049] Many modifications and equivalent arrangements may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. It will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that such a method can be used. Such scope extends to the appended claims to encompass all equivalent structures and products. The broadest interpretation should be given.

[0050] For purposes of interpreting the claims of this invention, the use of "means for" or "steps" Unless the specific term "for" is recited in a claim, 35 U.S.C. It is expressly intended that the provisions of Section 112(f) will not be invoked. The present application provides the following aspects of the invention. (Aspect 1) 1. A system for facilitating access to vehicle data, comprising: Vehicle Electronic Control Unit; a cloud storage system configured to store vehicle data; At least one user device in operative communication with the cloud storage system. ; and a vehicle electronic control unit that is in operative communication with the vehicle electronic control unit and the cloud storage system; configured to process both data and transfer the vehicle data to the cloud storage system Vehicle Analytics Computing Module The system comprising: (Aspect 2) The first user device is a computing device at a vehicle repair shop. The system described in 1. (Aspect 3) 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the first user device is a user computing device. The system. (Aspect 4) The user computing device is a vendor computing device. The system of embodiment 3. (Aspect 5) The user computing device is an insurance company computing device. The system of embodiment 3. (Aspect 6) The user computing device is a personal or consumer computing device. The system of embodiment 3, wherein the system is a device. (Aspect 7) The user computing device is a computing device of a DMV. 3. The system according to claim 2, (Aspect 8) The at least one user device includes a first user device and a second user device. Including chairs, The first and second user devices download the configured to retrieve and process vehicle data; 2. The system of embodiment 1. (Aspect 9) 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the at least one user device includes a vehicle technician device. Stem. (Aspect 10) The vehicle technician device may be a tablet, smartphone, desktop computer, or a device selected from the group consisting of a scanning device, a handheld scanning device, and a 10. The system of claim 9, further comprising: (Aspect 11) At least the cloud storage system is configured to store the vehicle data. 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising a vehicle history database. (Aspect 12) 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the vehicle data includes at least vehicle maintenance data. Tem. (Aspect 13) 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the vehicle data includes at least vehicle position data. (Aspect 14) 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the vehicle data includes at least vehicle damage data. (Aspect 15) 12. The system of claim 11, wherein the vehicle data includes at least vehicle inspection data. (Aspect 16) the vehicle analytics computing module is configured to store the vehicle data. 10. The system of claim 1, further comprising a vehicle history database. (Aspect 17) 1. A system for facilitating access to vehicle data, comprising: Vehicle history database configured to store and facilitate access to vehicle data Including cloud storage systems; a first user device in operative communication with the cloud storage system; a second user device in operative communication with the cloud storage system; and a vehicle electronic control unit that is in operative communication with the vehicle electronic control unit and the cloud storage system; The cloud storage system processes and stores both data in the vehicle history database. a vehicle analytics computing module configured to transfer the vehicle data to the system; L The system comprising: (Aspect 18) The first user device may be a vendor computing device, an insurance company computing device, or Mobile computing devices, consumer computing devices, and DMV computing devices 20. The system of embodiment 17, wherein the system is selected from the group consisting of: (Aspect 19) 18. The system of claim 17, wherein the second user device comprises a vehicle technician device. 。 (Aspect 20) The vehicle technician's device may be a tablet, smartphone, or desktop computer. a computer selected from the group consisting of a scanning device, a handheld scanning device, and a 20. The system of embodiment 19, wherein the system is a computing device. (Aspect 21) The vehicle data includes vehicle location data, vehicle damage data, vehicle inspection data, vehicle repair data, and vehicle maintenance data. Stem. (Aspect 22) the vehicle analytics computing module is configured to store the vehicle data. 20. The system of embodiment 17, including a vehicle history database.

Claims

1. 1. A system for facilitating access to vehicle data, comprising: a cloud storage system configured to store and facilitate access to vehicle data, the cloud storage system including a vehicle history database; a first user device in operative communication with the cloud storage system and configured to access a first one of the vehicle data; a second user device in operative communication with the cloud storage system and configured to access second one of the vehicle data, the second one being the same as or different from the first one; and a vehicle analytics computing module in operative communication with a vehicle electronic control unit and the cloud storage system; the vehicle analytics computing module is configured to process the vehicle data and transfer the vehicle data to the cloud storage system for storage in the vehicle history database of the cloud storage system via a vehicle communication link between the vehicle analytics computing module and the cloud storage system without providing access to the vehicle data by a computing device, and further configured to restrict access to the vehicle data with read-only access restrictions on the vehicle analytics computing module.

2. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein the first user device is selected from at least one of a vehicle repair shop computing device, an individual user computing device, a consumer computing device, a vendor computing device, a government agency computing device, an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) computing device, or an insurance company computing device.

3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the second user device comprises a vehicle technician's computing device.

4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the vehicle technician device is a computing device selected from at least one of a tablet, a smartphone, a desktop computing device, and a scanner.

5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the vehicle data is data selected from at least one of vehicle location data, vehicle damage data, vehicle inspection data, vehicle repair data, and vehicle maintenance data.

6. The system of claim 1 , wherein the vehicle analytics computing module includes a vehicle history database configured to store the vehicle data.

7. The system of claim 1 , wherein the vehicle analytics computing module provides secure and automatic transfer of the vehicle data to the cloud storage system.

8. The system of claim 1 , wherein data transfer over the vehicle communication link uses at least one of the Amazon Web Services (AWS) platform, a software development kit (SDK) tool, a secure shell (SSH) protocol, and a remote management protocol.

9. 10. The system of claim 1, wherein access to the vehicle data at the vehicle analytics computing module is further provided by a software interface, a web page, a protocol, a mobile or desktop application, a login request, and an application programming interface (API).

10. The system of claim 1 , wherein the vehicle data is further accessed by the vehicle analytics computing module using one or more hardware devices.

11. The system of claim 10 , wherein the one or more hardware devices include a key FOB.

12. The system described in claim 1, wherein access to the vehicle data in the vehicle analysis computing module is further performed using one or more infotainment systems.

13. The system of claim 1 , wherein communications active with the cloud storage system are encrypted.

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