In-Vehicle App Trial Control Using Travel Distance Limits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing in-vehicle information processing systems restrict trial version application programs based on usage period or function limitations, which can result in users not fully utilizing the applications, especially if restrictions are tied to ignition switch operations.
Innovation Solution
An in-vehicle information processing apparatus that determines whether the travel distance of a vehicle exceeds a threshold value since program usage began, and subsequently restricts program execution if this threshold is met.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If restrictions are placed on the usage period of the trial version, then the software can be protected from unlimited use, but the user cannot fully utilize the application before the period expires
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the restriction parameter from time-based (usage period) to distance-based (vehicle travel distance). The processing unit determines whether vehicle travel distance from when program usage is started exceeds a threshold value, and restricts execution only when the threshold is exceeded. This allows users to fully utilize the trial version during the evaluation period without arbitrary time restrictions, while still protecting the software through distance-based licensing control.
2Reliability
If restrictions are placed on usage of some functions in the trial version, then the software can be protected, but the user cannot experience all functions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies distance-based restriction instead of function-based restriction. The processing unit monitors vehicle travel distance and restricts program execution only when the distance threshold is exceeded, rather than limiting specific functions. This approach protects software through controlled access based on usage conditions while allowing users to experience all functions of the application during the trial period.
3Reliability
If the trial version is restricted based on the number of times the ignition switch is turned off, then the software can be protected from unlimited use, but users who take more breaks cannot fully experience the application
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the restriction parameter from ignition switch operation count to vehicle travel distance. The processing unit determines whether vehicle travel distance from when program usage is started exceeds a threshold value, rather than counting ignition switch cycles. This distance-based approach protects software while being insensitive to user driving habits such as taking breaks, allowing users to fully experience the application regardless of their driving patterns.
4Ease of operation
If the usage period is extended to allow full utilization, then user experience improves, but the software is exposed to unlimited use without proper restrictions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements distance-based restriction where the processing unit monitors vehicle travel distance and restricts program execution when a distance threshold is exceeded. This allows the software to remain accessible for extended periods or unlimited distance, providing full user experience opportunity, while still protecting the software through automatic restriction based on measured travel distance.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are an in-vehicle information processing apparatus, a program execution restriction method and a computer program that can be expected to provide users with an opportunity to fully use the trial version of an application program. An in-vehicle information processing apparatus according to one embodiment is an in-vehicle information processing apparatus to be mounted in a vehicle and for executing a program, the apparatus including a processing unit, whereby the processing unit determines whether the travel distance of the vehicle from when usage of the program is started exceeds a threshold value, and, if it is determined that the travel distance exceeds the threshold value, restricts subsequent execution of the program. The processing unit of the in-vehicle information processing apparatus may acquire the program and information relating to the threshold value from a device provided externally to the vehicle.