Network-Based Vehicle Sales System Using Digital Imaging and Remote Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Car dealerships face challenges in efficiently selling and servicing vehicles due to the need for large inventories, inconvenient locations, and higher service costs, while consumers are hesitant to use dealership services due to these factors and concerns about independent repair shops' capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing Car Computers connected to the Internet via wireless communication, allowing potential buyers to browse and test drive cars without visiting dealerships, and leveraging existing car owners and independent repair facilities for maintenance and repair services, with a network of customers and repair shops connected through servers and mobile devices for efficient service management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If car dealerships maintain large inventories and large showrooms to display vehicles, then potential buyers can view and test drive cars, but the dealership requires significant space, capital investment, and operational costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses digital photography and online imaging to create virtual copies of vehicles that can be displayed on websites and mobile devices. This allows potential buyers to view detailed images and specifications of cars without physically visiting the dealership, eliminating the need for large showrooms while maintaining vehicle display capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions the vehicle display function from physical space (showroom floors) to digital space (online platforms). By moving the display capability to another dimension - the internet - the dealership can showcase unlimited vehicles without additional physical space requirements
2Productivity
If car dealerships employ salesmen to assist buyers and facilitate test drives, then sales can be closed, but additional labor costs and wear and tear on vehicles occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables buyers to conduct self-guided test drives using remote keyless entry and navigation systems. Buyers can lock and unlock vehicles, start engines, and navigate to test drive locations independently without salesman assistance, reducing labor costs and minimizing unnecessary vehicle handling that causes wear and tear
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical interaction between salesmen and vehicles (physical handling, demonstrations) with electronic systems including remote keyless entry, electronic ignition, and GPS-guided test drives. This substitution reduces physical wear on vehicles while maintaining sales productivity through automated systems
3Ease of operation
If car dealerships provide maintenance and repair services with fully staffed service departments, then customers receive convenient service, but significant money and resources must be invested in tools, equipment, and staff
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an online scheduling system and mobile application as intermediaries between customers and service departments. Customers can book appointments, track service status, and receive notifications digitally, providing convenience without requiring extensive front-office infrastructure or staff
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables service departments to handle multiple vehicle brands and types using standardized diagnostic equipment and trained technicians. This multi-functional capability allows a single service department to serve diverse customer needs without requiring separate specialized departments for each vehicle type, reducing overall infrastructure complexity
4Reliability
If car dealerships charge premium prices for maintenance and repair services, then service quality and reputation are maintained, but consumers find the services less attractive compared to independent repair shops
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements an online review and rating system that allows customers to provide feedback on service quality and pricing. This feedback mechanism enables the dealership to monitor and maintain service standards while identifying opportunities to optimize pricing strategies based on customer perceptions and market conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent allows customers to choose from various service packages ranging from basic maintenance to comprehensive service. By offering partial service options rather than requiring full-service packages, the dealership makes services more affordable and accessible to price-sensitive customers while maintaining quality standards across all service levels
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This system reduces the need for large inventories and expensive service departments, allows consumers to explore and service vehicles conveniently, and utilizes existing resources for maintenance and repair, providing cost-effective and convenient solutions for both dealerships and consumers.
Implementation Method 1
Car Computers connected to the Internet via wireless communication
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for selling and servicing cars using a network of existing owners of the car and a network of existing independent car service centers and a distributed linked computer communication system.