Mobile App Vehicle Access via Reservation Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current car-sharing services require users to obtain an access card, which can't be used on the same day of joining and necessitates physical possession for vehicle access, lacking a streamlined mobile solution for reservation, location, and access.
Innovation Solution
A mobile device application that allows users to reserve, locate, and access vehicles through a reservation server using TCP/IP or near-field communication, enabling locking, unlocking, and horn activation, with GPS mapping and push notifications for convenient and immediate access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a physical access card system is used for vehicle access, then vehicle security and access control are ensured, but users cannot access vehicles on the same day of joining and must carry physical cards
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical access card system with a mobile device-based access system. The mobile device application communicates with the vehicle through wireless communication protocols (TCP/IP, Bluetooth, near-field communication) to perform locking, unlocking, and vehicle control functions, eliminating the need for physical access cards and mail delivery or in-person pickup processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile device application serves multiple functions: reservation management, vehicle location tracking via GPS mapping, access control (locking/unlocking), and vehicle control (horn activation). This multi-functional approach consolidates what previously required separate physical cards and processes into a single digital platform.
2Reliability
If access cards are mailed or picked up at service locations, then secure distribution is achieved, but same-day service enrollment and vehicle access are prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the physical card distribution system (mail or in-person pickup) with electronic delivery of access credentials through the mobile application. The system establishes secure wireless communication channels between the mobile device and vehicle, eliminating the need for physical card distribution while enabling immediate access upon enrollment.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary setup of communication protocols and access credentials during the enrollment process itself, rather than requiring a separate card distribution step. The mobile application is configured and linked to the vehicle system in advance, allowing users to access vehicles on the same day of joining.
3Ease of operation
If a mobile device application is implemented for vehicle access, then same-day service and streamlined access are achieved, but communication protocol compatibility and security verification become more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a reservation server as an intermediary between the mobile device application and the vehicle control systems. The server handles communication protocol translation, security verification, and coordination of access requests. This intermediary layer manages the complexity of multiple communication protocols (TCP/IP, Bluetooth, near-field communication) while presenting a simplified interface to users.
Solution Approach 2:
The mobile device application is designed to support multiple communication protocols and functions (reservation, location tracking, access control, vehicle control) within a single unified platform. This universal design consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems for each function into one integrated application.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and devices for reserving a reservable asset using a mobile device. A mobile device communicates directly with a vehicle-associated control module or through a reservation server using either a TCP/IP communications channel or near-field communications. A member enters a request using the user interface provided by the mobile-device application. The identity of the member is validated the vehicle-associated control module executes the request by sending a signal to a computer or sensor in the vehicle through the vehicle wiring or the vehicle CANbus. The request can be a function, such as unlocking the vehicle doors, illuminating the interior or exterior lights, honking the horn, or activating a panic alarm.