Automated Vehicle Access via Marker Recognition
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Auto dealerships face challenges in providing convenient access to test drive vehicles due to limited hours of operation, inconvenient locations, and limited parking space, which restricts customer access and sales opportunities.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method using modern technology to facilitate vehicle access without an in-person salesman, where a mobile device sends authentication information and captures images of vehicle markers to unlock vehicles, with a server managing inventory and tracking test drives based on location and sensor data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If physical dealership staff are deployed to parking lots to assist customers with test drives, then customer service quality improves, but operational costs and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables customers to independently complete test drive authorization by capturing images of physical markers on vehicles and automatically receiving digital keys through the mobile application, eliminating the need for staff intervention in the key handover process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of physical key handover and manual verification with an automated digital system that uses image recognition technology to verify vehicle identity and automatically delivers digital keys through the mobile application
2Reliability
If dealerships operate with limited hours and locations, then security and control are maintained, but customer accessibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system adds a digital dimension to the traditional physical dealership model by implementing remote key delivery through mobile devices, allowing customers to access vehicles outside of traditional dealership hours and locations while maintaining security protocols
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile application serves as an intermediary between the customer and the vehicle, enabling secure remote access without requiring physical presence at the dealership, thus expanding accessibility while maintaining control
3Area of stationary object
If physical dealership space is limited, then operational costs are reduced, but vehicle availability for test drives decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from a purely physical space model to a hybrid physical-digital model, enabling vehicles to be accessed remotely through mobile devices, thus effectively increasing vehicle availability without requiring additional physical dealership space
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects described herein may allow for vehicle access in a retail environment with limited human intervention. Systems and methods described herein may associate a vehicle with a physical location, and/or may enable a user to use a mobile device to select a vehicle for a test drive. The system may provide access to (e.g., unlock) the vehicle, and may track test drive information across one or more users.