Automobile dealership system and transaction method

Abstract

An automobile dealership system is disclosed. The system includes a database configurable to store records for each of a number of automobiles for sale. The automobiles are located at different geographical lots, with each record including a corresponding geographic location of one of the automobiles. The system further includes a server. The server is operable to retrieve one or more records from the database and provide the retrieved one or more records to a user device. The server receives information from the user device indicating an interest in viewing one or more automobiles corresponding to the retrieved one or more records, and remotely transmits a command to an unlocking device located in or near the one or more automobiles to automatically unlock the one or more automobiles. A method for trading automobiles is also disclosed.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an automobile dealership system and a transaction method. More specifically, the present invention relates to a used car dealership system and transaction method. [Background technology]

[0002] The following discussion of the background of the invention is intended only to facilitate an understanding of the present invention. It should be understood that this description is not an admission or acknowledgement that any of the content referred to was published, known, or part of the common general knowledge of those skilled in the art in any jurisdiction as of the priority date of this invention.

[0003] A typical used car dealership showroom must be located in one location and provide sufficient parking space for the cars it sells. Salespeople are also typically present at the location to assist customers with vehicle information, lock and unlock vehicles that customers are viewing, and accompany customers on test drives. A centralized location can be inconvenient, especially for customers who live far from the showroom. Showrooms require a lot of space and manpower, which can increase overhead costs for car dealerships.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for an automobile dealership system that at least partially addresses one or more of the problems discussed above. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one aspect of the present invention, an automobile dealership system is provided. The automobile dealership system of the present invention includes a database that can be configured to store records for each of a number of automobiles that are sold. The vehicles are located at different geographic locations, and each record contains the geographic location of one corresponding vehicle. The automobile dealership system of the present invention further includes a server operable to retrieve one or more records from the database, provide the retrieved one or more records to a user device, receive information from the user device indicating an interest in viewing one or more automobiles corresponding to the retrieved one or more records, and remotely transmit a command to an unlocking device located in or near the one or more automobiles to automatically unlock the one or more automobiles.

[0006] In the automobile dealership system of the present invention, the user devices include mobile devices. The server is then operable to receive the location of the mobile device. In this case, retrieving one or more records from the database includes retrieving one or more records from the database based on the location of the mobile device.

[0007] In the automobile dealership system of the present invention, retrieving one or more records from a database based on the location of the mobile device includes retrieving the one or more records from a database located geographically closest to the location of the mobile device.

[0008] In the automobile dealership system of the present invention, the release device is located inside one or more automobiles and is configured to activate an unlock key on a key fob for the one or more automobiles.

[0009] In the automobile dealership system of the present invention, the command to automatically unlock one or more automobiles comprises a short messaging service (SMS) message sent to the unlocking device.

[0010] In the automobile dealership system of the present invention, receiving information from the user device includes receiving information obtainable from a label attached to the automobile using the user device.

[0011] In the car dealership system of the present invention, the label includes a QR code.

[0012] In the car dealership system of the present invention, the command is to unlock all cars in the same geographic location as at least one car.

[0013] In the automobile dealership system of the present invention, the server is operable to receive information from the user devices of one or more automobiles corresponding to the one or more records obtained, and then receive information of users using the user devices.

[0014] In the automobile dealership system of the present invention, the server is operable to, after receiving the user's information, transmit the user's waiting order to the user device before it is the user's turn to access at least one automobile.

[0015] In the automobile dealership system of the present invention, the server is operable to receive information from the user device to unlock one or more automobiles before the server sends a command to the unlocking device.

[0016] In the car dealership system of the present invention, the server is operable to transmit information to a user device regarding the remaining time for the user to view at least one car.

[0017] In the automobile dealership system of the present invention, the server is operable to transmit information to the user device indicating that the user's time to view one or more automobiles has expired and that the user needs to lock the one or more automobiles.

[0018] In the car dealership system of the present invention, the server is operable to send instructions to the locking device to automatically lock one or more cars.

[0019] In the car dealership system of the present invention, the car dealership system includes a user device.

[0020] According to another aspect of the present invention, a method for trading automobiles is provided. The method of trading automobiles of the present invention involves a dealer placing automobiles in different geographic locations, and the dealer maintaining a database containing a record of each automobile. This record includes the geographic location of the vehicle. Furthermore, the method of trading automobiles of the present invention includes the dealer retrieving one or more records from the database, the dealer providing the retrieved one or more records to a potential purchaser, the dealer receiving information from the potential purchaser indicating an interest in viewing one or more automobiles corresponding to the retrieved one or more records, and the dealer remotely transmitting instructions to an unlocking device located in or near the one or more automobiles to automatically unlock the one or more automobiles.

[0021] Furthermore, the method of trading automobiles of the present invention includes the potential purchaser providing the dealer with the location of the potential purchaser, and the dealer retrieving at least one record from the database includes the dealer retrieving one or more records from the database based on the location of the potential purchaser.

[0022] In the automobile transaction method of the present invention, the dealer retrieving one or more records from a database based on the location of the potential purchaser includes the dealer retrieving one or more records from a database in a location geographically closest to the location of the potential purchaser.

[0023] Other aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way of example, the principles of the invention. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0024] The invention may be better understood with reference to the following drawings. [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram of an automobile dealership system including a mobile device according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 2 is a flow diagram illustrating a method of operation of the automobile dealership system of FIG. 1 in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 2 is a catalog screen displayed on the mobile device of FIG. 1, the catalog screen including a "View Other Locations" button. [Figure 4] 4 is a places screen displayed on the mobile device of FIG. 1 when the "Show More Places" button of FIG. 3 is selected, the places screen including two or more places. [Figure 5] 5 is another catalog screen that is displayed on the mobile device of FIG. 1 when one of the two or more locations of FIG. 4 is selected. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a screen on a mobile device used to scan a QR code placed on a vehicle at a selected location. [Figure 7] 2 is a profile screen displayed on the mobile device of FIG. 1. [Figure 8] 2 is a queue screen displayed on the mobile device of FIG. 1 showing a queue of potential buyers waiting in line to view one or more automobiles at a selected location. [Figure 9] 2 is a queue screen displayed on the mobile device of FIG. 1 showing a queue of potential buyers waiting in line to view one or more automobiles at a selected location. [Figure 10]2 is a queue screen displayed on the mobile device of FIG. 1 showing a queue of potential buyers waiting in line to view one or more automobiles at a selected location. [Figure 11] 2 is a queue screen displayed on the mobile device of FIG. 1 showing a queue of potential buyers waiting in line to view one or more automobiles at a selected location. [Figure 12] 2 is a vehicle unlock screen displayed on the mobile device of FIG. 1 showing the unlocked status of one or more vehicles when it is a potential buyer's turn to view the one or more vehicles. [Figure 13] 2 is a vehicle unlock screen displayed on the mobile device of FIG. 1 showing the unlocked status of one or more vehicles when it is a potential buyer's turn to view the one or more vehicles. [Figure 14] 2 is a time remaining screen displayed on the mobile device of FIG. 1 showing the time remaining for a potential buyer to view one or more automobiles. [Figure 15] 2 is a time remaining screen displayed on the mobile device of FIG. 1 showing the time remaining for a potential buyer to view one or more automobiles. [Figure 16] 2 is a time remaining screen displayed on the mobile device of FIG. 1 showing the time remaining for a potential buyer to view one or more automobiles. [Figure 17] 2 is a time remaining screen displayed on the mobile device of FIG. 1 showing the time remaining for a potential buyer to view one or more automobiles. [Figure 18] 2 is a vehicle viewing screen displayed on the mobile device of FIG. 1 when viewing time for one or more vehicles has expired. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] Throughout this document, unless otherwise indicated, the terms "including," "consisting of," "having," etc. are to be construed non-exclusively, in other words, "including but not limited to."

[0026] Furthermore, throughout this specification, unless the context requires otherwise, the terms "include" and its variations "includes" or "including" are meant to include the specified integer or group of integers, but not to exclude other integers or negative loops of integers.

[0027] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which the subject matter herein belongs.

[0028] As shown in the drawings, the present invention is embodied in a novel automobile dealership system. Referring to FIG. 1, the automobile dealership system of the present invention generally includes a database that can be configured to store records for each of a number of automobiles that are sold. The vehicles are located at different geographic locations, and each record includes the geographic location of the corresponding vehicle. Furthermore, the automobile dealership system of the present invention includes a server. The server is operable to retrieve one or more records from the database and provide the retrieved one or more records to a user device. Additionally, the server is operable to receive information from a user device indicating an interest in viewing one or more vehicles corresponding to one or more of the obtained records, and to remotely transmit instructions to an unlocking device located in or near the one or more vehicles to automatically unlock the one or more vehicles.

[0029] Specifically, FIG. 1 shows an automobile dealership system 2 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The car dealership system 2 includes a server 4, a plurality of user devices 6, and a Twilio system 8 (Twilio is a trademark of Twilio Inc.). Users of the car dealership system 2 include the car dealership that manages the server 4 and potential car buyers. The server 4 is connected to a user device 6 and a Twilio system 8 via a wide area network such as the Internet (not shown) so as to be able to communicate data therewith. Typically, the servers 4 may be structured around a single centralized server 4 that handles all processing. The server 4 may also be a distributed server. The car dealership system 2 is based on a client-server architecture. The user device 6 functions as a client. A client requests content or services from a server 4 . Thus, the client initiates a communication session with the server 4 and waits for incoming requests. The client and server 4 exchange messages in a request-response messaging pattern. The client sends a request and the server 4 returns a response. The language and rules of communication between the client and the server 4 are defined by any suitable communication protocol known to those skilled in the art. To further formalize the data exchange, the server 4 may implement an application programming interface (API) gateway 10 , which is an abstraction layer for accessing services on the server 4 . Similarly, Server 4 may act as a client to access content / services from the Twilio System 8.

[0030] The server 4 includes a processing unit 12 consisting of at least one processor and a program storage device 14 readable by the processing unit 12 tangibly embodying a program of instructions executable by the processing unit 12 to provide the services of the server 4. The program of instructions includes an application programming interface (API) gateway 10 . In addition, the server 4 includes a database 16 . The user device 6 may be any computing device, including but not limited to a personal computer, a laptop, a notebook, a tablet, a mobile device such as a smartphone, or the like. These user devices 6 interact with the server 4 to access the services provided by the server 4 via the server's 4 API gateway 10 . Accessing the service involves the transfer of data between the user device 6 and the server 4 .

[0031] Each user device 6 may include at least one processing unit in the form of a processor and memory (both not shown). To access the services offered by the server 4, various means are available to these user devices 6. One of these means is via a mobile application (abbreviated as App, not shown) running on a user device 6, in particular a smartphone. The app is a software application that is downloaded and installed on the smartphone 6. This app retrieves content and data from a server 4 via the Internet. Another means by which user devices 6 can access the services provided by server 4 is a web portal or a mobile portal (both not shown) supported by server 4. These portals are private locations on the Internet that can be accessed via a unique URL (web address) and a unique username and password. Typically, the web portal is accessible via a web browser on the user device 6 and provides a page on the World Wide Web or another access point for the user device 6 to connect with the server 4 . However, the service may also be accessible via a website and a mobile website (both not shown). For each of these means, an appropriate graphical user interface (GUI) is provided on the user device 6 to enable the user to access the services of the server 4 .

[0032] Next, a used car transaction method implemented in the car dealership system 2 according to one embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. This used car trading method 70 begins with a LAUNCH APP step 72 in which a potential buyer runs the app on their mobile device 6 terminal. The mobile device 6 establishes a connection with the server 4 and sends information to the server 4 such as the name and phone number of the potential purchaser. Next, the used car trading method 70 proceeds to an OBTAIN GPS INFO step 74 at the server 4, where the server 4 requests the mobile device 6 to provide its GPS location information. Next, the used car trading method 70 proceeds to a PROVIDE RESPONSE step 76 at the mobile device 6, where the mobile device 6 receives an input response from the potential buyer. In this providing response step 76, if the input response from the potential purchaser does not provide the server 4 with location information, the mobile device 6 sends a disapproval message to the server 4. However, if the input response from the potential purchaser is to send location information to the server 4 , the mobile device 6 obtains its GPS location information and sends the location information to the server 4 .

[0033] Next, the used car trading method 70 proceeds to a RETRIEVE CAR RECORDS step 78 at the server 4, where the server 4 retrieves records from the database 16 based on the information received from the mobile device 6. If GPS location information is not provided by the mobile device 6, i.e., if a disapproval message is received, the server 4 simply provides the mobile device 6 with a list of showroom locations sorted in an appropriate order, for example, alphabetically. The server 4 can also send information about cars available in any showroom to the mobile device 6 . The showroom can be selected randomly or can be the first showroom in an alphabetically sorted list of showrooms. However, if the mobile device 6 provides the GPS location information of the mobile device 6 to the server 4 in the response providing step 76, the server 4 determines whether there is a showroom within a predetermined distance, for example, 10 km, from the GPS location of the mobile device 6. If it is determined that one or more showrooms are within a predetermined distance from the location of the mobile device 6, the server 4 transmits information about cars in the showroom closest to the location of the mobile device 6. In other words, the records retrieved from the database 16 are based on the location of the mobile device 6 . The information sent to the mobile device 6 includes information about the cars available at the showroom.

[0034] The used car trading method 70 then proceeds to a DISPLAY CATALOG SCREEN step 80 on the mobile device 6, where the mobile device 6 uses the information received from the server 4 to display a catalog screen 82 of available vehicles, as shown in FIG. 3. This catalog screen 82 includes a showroom location 84, a list of cars available at this showroom 86, and a button 88 for selecting showrooms at other locations. The list of cars 86 is displayed in a horizontal row with horizontal scrolling. For example, Figure 3 shows one car fully visible and a second car only half visible. This is to make navigation intuitive, allowing potential buyers to quickly recognize that multiple cars are available in the showroom and to scroll horizontally to see other available cars. Unlimited information about each vehicle, including its appearance and current price, is provided. The catalog screen 82 also includes guidance information 90 regarding what a potential purchaser can do and expect. Additionally, the catalog screen 82 includes a call-to-action "Scan QR Code" button 92 that prompts potential buyers to scan the QR code associated with the vehicle to indicate their interest in viewing the vehicle in the showroom. This QR code is a unique code associated with the showroom. Other ways of providing a unique code to the server are possible. This unique code may be in the form of a barcode, an image of the vehicle license plate number, or simply entering the vehicle license plate number into the mobile device 6, etc.

[0035] In the catalog screen display step 80, when a potential purchaser selects the "View Other Locations" button 88 on the screen by tapping on the button, the mobile device 6 communicates with the server 4 to obtain a list of showrooms and displays them on a locations screen 94 as shown in FIG. 4. The Locations screen 94 contains a list of showrooms in all different locations. The showroom closest to the mobile device 6 is displayed at the top of the locations screen 94, as shown in FIG. All other showroom locations may then be displayed according to distance from the mobile device 6, alphabetical order, number of cars available at each showroom, etc. The bottom place names are partially displayed on the places screen 94 so that potential purchasers know that what is displayed may not be a complete list of place names and are more likely to scroll vertically to see the remaining place names. Each location name is selectable to display another catalog screen similar to the first catalog screen 82 shown in FIG. For example, if a potential purchaser selects the location name "Bishan Junction 8," a second catalog screen 96 as shown in FIG. On each catalog screen 82, 96, a potential buyer can select any vehicle displayed to view further details about that vehicle. These details include general details, vehicle details, financial details, inspection summary details, and installment details. These general details include one or more of the car's price, details of Carro's warranty service "CARRO ASSURE PLUS", the car's registration date, the remaining period on the Certificate of Entitlement (COE), the number of previous owners, the current mileage, the annual depreciation rate, and any applicable road tax. The vehicle details may include one or more of fuel type, transmission type, engine capacity, horsepower (if applicable), and seating capacity. Such financial details may include one or more of the following: COE amount, open market value, scrap value, applicable additional registration fees, down payment amount, and paper value. The detailed inspection summary may include one or more of the following: condition of the air conditioning system, whether the vehicle has had any serious accidents, suspension condition, on-board diagnostics, engine and transmission, tires and brakes, and visual defects. The installment details also include one or more of an estimated monthly installment rate based on the price of the car, a loan amount, a down payment, an interest rate, and a loan term.

[0036] When the potential buyer taps the "Scan QR Code" button on the catalog screen 82, the used car trading method 70 then proceeds to a mobile device 6 QR code scanning step 98, where the mobile device 6 activates its internal camera and captures an image of the QR code. An image capture screen 100 as shown in FIG. Image capture screen 100 includes a window 102 in which the captured image is preferably located. The app processes the captured image of the QR code to obtain a unique code associated with the showroom and / or the vehicle at the showroom. The mobile device 6 then transmits the unique code to the server 4 .

[0037] The used car trading method 70 then proceeds to a REQUEST USER PARTICULARS step 110 at the server 4, where the server 4 verifies the unique code. If this unique code is then successfully verified, the server 4 sends a request to the mobile device 6 requesting details of the potential purchaser. The mobile device 6 displays a profile screen 112 as shown in FIG. Profile screen 112 includes fields for potential buyers to enter their name, mobile phone number, and email address. The profile screen 112 also includes a link to terms and conditions that potential buyers must agree to before being allowed to view the vehicle in the showroom. The profile screen 112 also includes a call-to-action button, "Next," that potential buyers can tab to when they are ready to take the next step.

[0038] The used car trading method 70 then proceeds to a PROVIDE PARTICULARS step 114 on the mobile device 6 where the mobile device 6 sends details of potential buyers to the server 4 . Next, the used car trading method 70 proceeds to a CREATE TICKET step 116 at the server 4, where the server 4 creates a ticket for the potential purchaser. This ticket has its status field set to waiting at this point. The server 4 periodically sends queue information to the mobile device 6, informing potential buyers where they are in the queue to view the car at the showroom. Next, the used car trading method 70 proceeds to a DISPLAY QUEUE STATUS on the mobile device 6 step 118 and an UPDATE QUEUE STATUS on the server 4 step 120, where the mobile device 6 displays the queue information received from the server 4. In a display queue status step 118 and an update queue status step 120, a real-time connection is established between the mobile device 6 and the server 4. The mobile device 6 establishes this real-time connection using the WebSocket API. The WebSocket API works by opening a two-way interactive communication session between the mobile device 6 and the server 4 . Using the WebSocket API, a mobile device 6 sends messages to a server 4 and receives event-driven responses without polling the server 4 for a response. WebSocket is the primary interface for connecting to a WebSocket server to establish a connection and send and receive data over that connection. The WebSocket object provides an API for creating and managing a WebSocket connection to the server 4 as well as sending and receiving data over that connection. "CloseEvent" is an event sent by a WebSocket object when the connection is closed, and "MessageEvent" is an event sent by a WebSocket object when a message is received from the server. Therefore, using the WebSocket API, the queue of potential buyers can be updated accordingly. The socket connection is authenticated using the authentication URL and the user ID of the potential buyer. The socket connection is closed when the potential buyer exits the app or navigates away from the queue page.

[0039] Updating Queue Status at Server 4 In step 120, server 4 creates a channel specific to the potential purchaser's user ID to connect the potential purchaser to queue-related events. When a potential purchaser leaves the queue or ends the session, the server 4 notifies all other potential purchasers in the queue via the socket connection. If a potential buyer is still in line, the app will display an updated queue position and estimated wait time. Once the socket connection is successfully established, the app subscribes to a channel specific to the potential buyer's user ID and associates the potential buyer with queue-related events.

[0040] Each of Figures 8 through 11 shows a queue screen 122 that includes the queue position of potential buyers in the queue and timing information indicating how long the potential buyers have to wait until it is their turn to view the vehicle. Each potential purchaser is given a predetermined amount of time to view the vehicle, so the estimated wait time is that predetermined amount of time multiplied by the number of potential purchasers ahead of them in the queue. FIG. 11 shows the waiting screen 122 when the purchaser has reached the head of the queue.

[0041] When it is the potential buyer's turn to view the vehicle, the used car transaction method 70 then proceeds to a SWIPE TO UNLOCK step 124 on the mobile device 6, where the app automatically directs the potential buyer to the start of the viewing session so they can unlock the vehicle and begin viewing and / or previewing the vehicle. This app displays a car unlock screen 126 on the mobile device 6, as shown in FIG. Information on the vehicle unlock screen 126 includes the amount of time a potential buyer has to view the vehicle. In this embodiment, potential buyers are given 10 minutes to view the vehicle. However, if the user is also allowed to test drive the car, the allotted time may be longer. The unlock cars screen 126 also includes a call to action, "Swipe to unlock all cars," slider bar 128.

[0042] When the potential purchaser swipes the unlock icon 130 down the length of the slider bar 128, the mobile device 6 transmits information to the server 4 indicating that the potential purchaser is ready to view the vehicle. Next, the used car trading method 70 proceeds to an INFORM USER OF TIME LEFT step 132 at the server 4, where the server 4 communicates with the Twilio system 8 to instruct the server 4 to send an SMS message to the key fob actuator 136 in the vehicle. The Twilio system uses Amazon Web Services to host the telephony infrastructure and provide connectivity between HTTP and the public switched telephone network (PSTN) through the app. The used car transaction method 70 proceeds to a SEND UNLOCK SMS step 134 in the Twilio system 8, where the Twilio system 8 uses Twilio's Verify API, which requires two unique account SIDs and an authentication token, to remotely send an SMS message to one or more key fob actuators 136. Other similar systems capable of transmitting wireless commands to the key fob actuator 136 may also be used. Each key fob actuator 136 may be located within or near the vehicle. The alphanumeric text in the SMS message may include, for example, "Your unlock verification code is: 0001." Additionally, the SMS message may contain a unique PIN for authentication purposes. The used vehicle trading method 70 then proceeds to an ACTUATE KEY FOB step 140 in the key fob actuator 136, where the key fob actuator 136 receives the SMS message, verifies its validity, and activates the unlock button on the vehicle's key fob (not shown). The key fob sends a radio signal to the vehicle's electronics to unlock the vehicle doors. All key fob actuators for cars in a showroom may be activated by a single SMS message. In other embodiments, each key fob actuator is activated by a key fob actuator-specific SMS message to allow the vehicle to be unlocked individually. Any type of key fob actuator 136 may be used. These include, but are not limited to, those disclosed in U.S. Patent No. 9,576,414 to Tieman, entitled "Remote Control Button Actuator with Removable Tray," U.S. Patent Application No. 2009 / 00108989A1 to Sinclair, entitled "Personal Access Arrangement for Motor Vehicles," and PCT / SG2021 / 050463 to Chen, entitled "Remote Control Actuator."

[0043] In a notifying user of remaining time at server 4 step 132, the server 4 also sends status information to the mobile device 6 indicating the status of the vehicle unlocking process. An unlock status screen 150, as shown in FIG. 13, is displayed on the mobile device. This unlock status screen 150 shows that the unlock process is 71% complete. The key fob actuator can notify the server 4 when the unlocking is complete. In this step 132, the server 4 also updates the status of the ticket to VIEWING CAR. Once the unlocking process is complete, the server 4 sends information to the mobile device 6 regarding the time remaining for the potential buyer to view the vehicle. Next, the used car trading method 70 proceeds to DISPLAY TIME LEFT on mobile device 6 step 152, where the time remaining is displayed on a time remaining screen 154 on the mobile device 6, as shown in FIG. This time remaining screen 154 also includes cars available for viewing in the showroom where the mobile device 6 is located. The cars are displayed in a row with the last car partially visible to indicate to the user that there are more cars available to view in the showroom than are displayed on the screen. Unlike the catalog screens 82, 96 shown in Figures 3 and 5, this time remaining screen 154 displays the vehicles with more information. Such information may include, but is not limited to, price, number of owners, mileage, depreciation, engine capacity, etc. The time remaining screen 154 also includes a call-to-action "View Listing Details" button for potential buyers to view further details about each vehicle. Additionally, the Time Remaining screen 154 includes a call to action "Chat With Us" button 156 and a "Chat With Us" button 158, allowing the potential buyer to exchange text messages or place a call with an online sales representative. The mobile device 6 stores and updates the remaining time. FIG. 15 shows a time remaining screen 160 indicating that a potential buyer has 30 seconds left to view the vehicle. Instead of displaying cars available for viewing in the showroom, this time remaining screen 160 displays instructions to potential buyers. These instructions include informing potential buyers to turn off the vehicle engine, remove all personal belongings, and close the vehicle doors. The time remaining screen 160 also includes a call to action "Press and Hold To Lock" button that the potential buyer can tap to lock the vehicle.

[0044] Once the potential buyer's allotted time has expired, the used car transaction method 70 proceeds to step 170 where the server 4 informs the user that time is up (INFORM USER TIME IS UP), at which point the server 4 sends information to the mobile device 6 instructing the mobile device 6 to display the car lock screen 172 shown in FIG. 16 . This car locked screen 172 reminds the potential buyer to turn off the car engine, remove all of their belongings, and close the car doors. The potential buyer can confirm receipt of these instructions by tapping the "Got It!" button 174 in the call to action on the car lock screen 172. At this point, the car lock screen 172 transitions to a time remaining screen 176, as shown in FIG. 17, where the time remaining is shown as zero. The time remaining screen 176 includes a call to action "press and hold to lock" button 178. When the potential buyer presses this button 178, the used car trading method 70 proceeds to a lock vehicle on mobile device 6 step 180, in which the mobile device 6 sends a command to the server 4 to lock the vehicle doors. The used car trading method 70 then proceeds to an end step 182 at the server 4, where the server 4 instructs the Twilio system 8 to send another SMS message to the key fob actuator 136 to lock the car doors. The used vehicle transaction method 70 proceeds to a SEND LOCK SMS step 184 in the Twilio system 8, where the Twilio system 8 remotely sends an SMS message to the key fob actuator 136. Next, the used vehicle trading method 70 proceeds to an activate key fob step 186, where each key fob actuator 136 receives and acknowledges the SMS message and activates the lock button on its respective key fob stored therein to lock the vehicle doors. The alphanumeric text in the SMS message may include, for example, "The lock verification code is: 0002." In end step 182, server 4 also transmits information to mobile device 6 to enable the potential purchaser to display on mobile device 6 the car that was just viewed in DISPLAYED CARS VIEWED step 190. As shown in FIG. 18, each vehicle displayed on the viewed vehicles screen 192 has a call to action "I'm interested" button 194. If a potential buyer taps on such an "interested" button and decides to purchase the car, they will be contacted by an online assistant who can provide more information about the car and complete the purchase process. Server 4 also updates the ticket status to Interested to indicate that the potential buyer has expressed further interest after viewing the vehicle. The ticket may also include identification of the specific vehicle in which the potential buyer expressed interest.

[0045] Next, a method for trading automobiles will be described. This method of trading automobiles involves a dealer locating automobiles in different geographic locations and maintaining a database 16 that stores records for each automobile. This record includes the geographic location of the vehicle. The method of trading automobiles further includes the dealer retrieving one or more records from database 16, the dealer providing the one or more records retrieved by the dealer to a potential purchaser, the dealer receiving information from the potential purchaser indicating an interest in viewing the one or more automobiles, and the dealer remotely transmitting a command to an unlocking device 136 located in or near the one or more automobiles to automatically unlock the one or more automobiles.

[0046] Additionally, the transaction method may include the potential purchaser providing the dealer with the location of the potential purchaser, and in such case, the dealer retrieving at least one record from the database includes retrieving one or more records from the database based on the location of the potential purchaser. In an embodiment of the trading method, the dealer retrieving one or more records from a database based on the location of the potential purchaser includes the dealer retrieving one or more records from a database that is geographically closest to the location of the potential purchaser.

[0047] In the above-described car dealership system 2, cars for sale can be parked at any location as long as there is sufficient parking space at that location, and potential buyers can visit that location as a showroom. Therefore, there will be showrooms in the parking lots of every shopping mall, parking lots next to railway stations etc., making it convenient for potential buyers to access the showrooms. Additionally, the automobile dealership system 2 eliminates the need for salespeople to be physically present at each location to lock and unlock automobiles. It also gives potential buyers who prefer to experience the car for themselves more independence and freedom.

[0048] While the present invention is described as being implemented in the above-described embodiments, it should not be so limited. For example, although it is described as a potential purchaser launching the app to run the app, this should not be construed as being so limited. Potential customers can simply scan the car's QR code using another app and rely on deep linking technology, which will automatically launch the app. If the app is not downloaded to the mobile device, the QR code directs the potential customer to the appropriate application store where the app can be downloaded depending on the operating system platform of the mobile device.

[0049] Another example is described as potential buyers being allowed to view all the cars at a particular showroom. However, the server 4 should be aware that each car can be unlocked individually at the showroom. Each car can be unlocked with an SMS message specific to that car.

[0050] Additionally, as another example, a key fob actuator is described for use as a vehicle door locking / unlocking device. However, other means for locking and unlocking the vehicle may also be used. These other means include, but are not limited to, modifying the electronics within the vehicle to directly activate solenoids to lock and unlock the vehicle doors.

[0051] As yet another example, an automobile dealership system is described as being used for a used car dealership. However, the car dealership system may also be used by dealers of all kinds of new and used cars, trucks, vans, etc. This car dealership system is also used for car rental businesses.

[0052] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the above modifications or improvements, which are not mutually exclusive, may further be combined, not mutually exclusive, to form further embodiments of the present invention.

Claims

1. a database configurable to maintain respective records of a plurality of motor vehicles for sale, the plurality of motor vehicles being located at different geographic lots, each record including the geographic location of a corresponding one of the plurality of motor vehicles; a server operable to retrieve at least one record from the database, provide the at least one retrieved record to a user device, receive information from the user device indicating an interest in viewing at least one motor vehicle corresponding to the at least one retrieved record, and remotely send a command to an unlocking device located inside the at least one motor vehicle to activate an unlock button on a key fob of the at least one motor vehicle to automatically unlock the at least one motor vehicle.

2. 2. The automobile dealership system of claim 1, wherein the user device comprises a mobile device, the server is operable to receive a location of the mobile device, and retrieving at least one record from the database includes retrieving at least one record from the database based on the location of the mobile device.

3. 3. The automobile dealership system of claim 2, wherein retrieving at least one record from the database based on the location of the mobile device includes retrieving at least one record from the database that includes a location geographically closest to the location of the mobile device.

4. The at least one obtained record includes a record of a first motor vehicle and a record of a second motor vehicle; 3. The automobile dealership system of claim 2, wherein the mobile device displays a complete image of the first automobile and a partial image of the second automobile.

5. 10. The automobile dealership system of claim 1, wherein the instructions to automatically unlock the at least one automobile include a short messaging service (SMS) message sent to the unlocking device.

6. 2. The automobile dealership system of claim 1, wherein receiving information from the user device includes using the user device to receive information obtainable from a label affixed to the automobile.

7. The automobile dealership system according to claim 6, wherein the label includes a QR code.

8. The automobile dealership system of claim 1 , wherein the command unlocks all automobiles in the same geographic location as the at least one automobile.

9. 2. The automobile dealership system of claim 1, wherein the server is operable to receive information of a user using the user device after receiving information from the user device indicating an interest in viewing at least one automobile corresponding to the at least one acquired record.

10. 10. The automobile dealership system of claim 9, wherein the server is operable to, after receiving the user's information, transmit the user's waiting position to the user device before the user's turn to access the at least one automobile.

11. 11. The automobile dealership system of claim 10, wherein the server is operable to receive information for unlocking the at least one automobile from the user device before the server sends the command to the unlocking device.

12. 12. The automobile dealership system of claim 11, wherein the server is operable to transmit to the user device information relating to the remaining time for the user to view the at least one automobile after the at least one automobile is unlocked.

13. 13. The automobile dealership system of claim 12, wherein the server is operable to transmit information to the user device indicating that the time during which the user may view the at least one automobile has expired and that the user should lock the at least one automobile.

14. 14. The automobile dealership system of claim 13, wherein the server is further operable to send instructions to a locking device to automatically lock the at least one automobile.

15. The automobile dealership system of claim 1 further comprising the user device.

16. A method of trading automobiles, comprising: the vehicles are located in different geographic locations; a server retrieving at least one record from a database having a record for each of the vehicles, the record including the geographic location of the vehicle; the at least one record obtained by the server is provided to a user device; the server receiving information from the user device indicating an interest in viewing at least one vehicle corresponding to the at least one acquired record; A method of trading automobiles, comprising the step of the server remotely transmitting a command to an unlocking device located inside the at least one automobile to activate an unlock button on a key fob of the at least one automobile to automatically unlock the at least one automobile.

17. the user device providing the server with the location of the user device; 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the server retrieving at least one record from the database includes the server retrieving at least one record from the database based on the location of the user device.

18. 20. The method of claim 17, wherein the server retrieving at least one record from the database based on the location of the user device includes the server retrieving at least one record from the database that includes a location that is geographically closest to the location of the user device.

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