Processor-Based Vehicle Rental Control System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicle rental systems lack effective monitoring and control mechanisms to manage vehicle usage during temporary rentals, particularly in terms of limiting performance based on predefined thresholds and ensuring compliance with rental agreements, which can lead to misuse or excessive wear on vehicles.
Innovation Solution
A processor-based system that monitors and controls vehicle parameters during rentals, allowing owners to set limits on performance, such as speed and load capacity, and communicates these parameters wirelessly to an administrative system via a cellular device, enabling real-time monitoring and remedial actions like engine power reduction or immobilization if thresholds are exceeded.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If vehicle rental systems allow temporary users to operate vehicles without monitoring mechanisms, then ease of operation is improved, but vehicle misuse and excessive wear increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system continuously monitors vehicle parameters (speed, load capacity, usage patterns) and provides real-time feedback to both the temporary user and vehicle owner. When parameters exceed predefined thresholds, the system automatically alerts the user and can notify the owner, enabling corrective action before significant damage occurs.
Solution Approach 2:
A processor-based monitoring system acts as an intermediary between the temporary user and the vehicle owner. This intermediary continuously observes vehicle operation, enforces usage parameters set by the owner, and communicates status information, thereby protecting the owner's asset while allowing the user operational freedom.
2Reliability
If vehicle performance is strictly controlled during rentals, then vehicle protection is improved, but user flexibility and operational freedom deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system dynamically adjusts its control based on predefined parameters set by the vehicle owner. Rather than imposing rigid restrictions, the system allows flexible operation within acceptable ranges and only intervenes when thresholds are exceeded. Owners can customize parameters such as speed limits, load capacity, and geographic restrictions according to their specific needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters (speed limits, load restrictions, active monitoring levels) based on the specific rental agreement and vehicle type. These parameters are configurable by the owner and can be adjusted during the rental period if needed, allowing the system to adapt to different situations while maintaining protection.
3Reliability
If real-time monitoring of vehicle parameters is implemented, then vehicle control is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The monitoring system leverages existing vehicle electronics and communication infrastructure (OBD port, cellular modem, GPS receiver) to perform multiple functions: parameter monitoring, location tracking, threshold enforcement, and communication with users and owners. This multi-functionality reduces the need for dedicated complex hardware while achieving comprehensive vehicle control.
Solution Approach 2:
The processor-based system automatically monitors vehicle parameters, compares them against predefined thresholds, and enforces restrictions without requiring constant human intervention. The system self-manages the monitoring process, generates alerts when thresholds are exceeded, and communicates status information, reducing operational complexity despite the comprehensive monitoring capability.
4Duration of action of stationary object
If vehicle parameters are monitored and controlled during rentals, then vehicle lifespan is extended, but loss of information about actual usage increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides comprehensive feedback to vehicle owners about actual usage patterns, including speed variations, load capacity utilization, geographic location, and duration of rental periods. This information is transmitted via cellular communication, ensuring owners maintain full awareness of how their vehicle is being used while the monitoring system protects the asset.
Data Source
AI summary
In a first illustrative embodiment, a processor operably programmed and configured to receive input defining one or more vehicle parameters to monitor and control during a vehicle rental. The processor may monitor and control the vehicle parameters during a vehicle rental period starting when an authorized user keylessly activates a vehicle during a defined start time. The processor may control driver behavior by limiting vehicle performance based on a predefined threshold of one or more vehicle parameters. The monitoring and control may continue until the rental period has expired or when the vehicle is returned to a predetermined geographic area designated by the vehicle owner. The processor may initiate wireless communication of the vehicle parameters to a vehicle rental administrative system through a cellular telephone located in proximity to the vehicle.