Vehicle Inspection Parameter Filtering via Dynamic Segmentation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing vehicle inspection systems require a large number of vehicle identifying parameters to be manually entered by operators, making the identification process time-consuming and inefficient, as VIN data alone is insufficient to specify vehicle configurations such as 2WD or 4WD, bed length, and trim levels, necessitating a more streamlined approach to recall appropriate vehicle specifications.
Innovation Solution
A procedure that reduces the number of vehicle identifying parameters required by comparing selected parameters to determine if additional details are needed to uniquely identify vehicle specifications, allowing for a minimal set of parameters to be used for inspections, and utilizing inspection results to determine if measurements are within acceptable tolerances, thereby minimizing operator input and enhancing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If VIN data alone is used to identify vehicle specifications, then the identification process is simplified, but the specificity of vehicle configuration identification deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the vehicle identification process into multiple stages: initial VIN-based identification, followed by selective addition of configuration parameters only when inspection results require higher specificity. This allows the system to start with simple VIN data and progressively add detail only when necessary, rather than requiring all parameters upfront.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a dynamic parameter selection mechanism where the system determines which vehicle configuration parameters are needed based on the specific inspection type and results. The parameter set is not fixed but adapts dynamically - adding drive configuration, bed length, or trim level details only when the inspection procedure requires that level of specificity.
2Measurement precision
If multiple vehicle configuration parameters are manually entered to uniquely identify vehicle specifications, then identification accuracy improves, but inspection time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary identification using VIN data alone to retrieve basic vehicle specifications and determine the inspection procedure type. This preliminary action allows the system to prepare the inspection framework without requiring detailed configuration parameters, saving time while maintaining sufficient accuracy for the initial inspection setup.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter set based on inspection requirements - using minimal parameters (VIN only) for routine inspections, and adding configuration parameters (drive type, bed length, trim level) only when the inspection type or results indicate a need for higher specificity. This dynamic parameter adjustment optimizes both accuracy and time efficiency.
3Reliability
If all vehicle configuration parameters are required for specification recall, then complete vehicle identification is achieved, but operator workload increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service identification system where the vehicle inspection system automatically determines which configuration parameters are needed based on the inspection type and initial VIN data. The system self-adjusts the parameter collection requirements rather than imposing a fixed comprehensive list on the operator, reducing workload while maintaining identification reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses feedback from the inspection procedure type and initial identification results to determine subsequent parameter requirements. The system continuously evaluates whether additional configuration parameters are needed based on feedback from previous identification steps and inspection requirements, adding parameters only when the feedback indicates insufficient specificity.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods for operating a vehicle inspection or measurement system to facilitate selection of specification sets associated with a vehicle undergoing inspection or measurement based on an evaluation of vehicle identifying features and acquired vehicle measurement.