DK201370496A - System and method for communicating with a service station - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system and a method for selecting and communi- cating with a number of washing facilities connected to a central server (2). An application (4) configured to run on at least one mobile communication device (1) is used to select a desired washing program at a selected site via an Internet connection. The system verifies that the user is present at the site by determining the user position us- ing geolocation. The system uses a local access point or unique means located at the washing facility (3) to verify that the user is present at that site. An authorisation process may be used to identify the user when activating the application (4). The application (4) may be configured to display the location of the washing facilities (3) and guide the user to the selected washing facility (3). The application may also be configured to communicate with a number of pumping facilities for selecting and activating a desired pumping program.

Description

System and method for communicating with a service station Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a system for selecting and communicating with a service station comprising a plurality of service programs, the system comprising - at least one service station comprising one or more facilities configured to carry out a service process for a vehicle according to at least one service program, where the facility is configured to communicate with at least one central server; and - the server comprises a data processing unit which is configured so that at least one user may communicate with the server via a mobile communication device comprising at least one wireless communication module.

The present invention also relates to a method for selecting and communicating with a service station comprising a plurality of service programs, the method comprising the steps of - at least one facility at the service station carrying out a service process for a vehicle according to at least one service program, where a central server activates the facilities; and - a data processing unit in the server communicates with at least one user's mobile communication device via a wireless connection.

Background of the Invention

Today, service stations with washing facilities for vehicles are widely used and are mainly located at manned or unmanned sites. The washing process typically requires the user to drive up to the site and then position the vehicle inside the washing facility. The user then has to get out of the car and use a terminal on-site to select the desired program and make the payment. After completion of the program, the user has to get into the car again and then drive the vehicle out of the washing facility. The user may slip on the wet surface and have an accident when getting in and out of the vehicle. Furthermore, this process is tedious today and requires the user to carry cash or an electronic credit or wash card for payment.

Today, service stations with pumping facilities either alone or together with a washing facility are mainly located in manned or unmanned sites. Activation of the pumps is done by payment via credit card or cash at a payment unit located near the pumps. This requires the user to carry sufficient cash for the purchase or a credit card accepted for payment. However, these payment units require constant maintenance or service in order to function properly, as they are used more or less constantly. Furthermore, if the user accidentally forgets to terminate or cancel the transactions, others may purchase services or gas on his account.

The use of smartphones and applications thereof is becoming more and more widely used for various purposes. The smartphones offer various platforms which may be used for carrying out payment and controlling different devices. JP 2009-301073 A discloses a mobile phone comprising a car wash application which may be used to communicate via a wireless connection with a charging unit located at a car wash facility for selecting a desired washing program and payment method. An acceptance unit at the car wash facility receives the selected data via the wireless connection and then activates the car wash facility based on the selected data. The user starts the application and sets up the payment process using the charging unit; the charging unit then transmits an updated menu and amount to the application. The user selects the washing program and the payment method which are then transmitted to the acceptance unit, which then starts the washing program. The wireless connection allows the user to be anywhere within the range of the particular unit which may lead to some uncertainty about whether the user is in fact located on the site or not. The wireless connection is sometimes unstable which causes the mobile phone to loose the connection or prevents the mobile phone from connecting with the particular unit. The two separate units located at the site do not allow the user to communicate with other car washing facilities. JP 2002-063648 A discloses a mobile phone capable of communicating with a control center in a car wash network via a wireless Internet connection which in turn communicates with a plurality of car wash facilities connected to the car wash network. The user connects to a web page at the control center via the Internet connection and then enters an ID number of that particular car wash facility together with the license plate number. The control center verifies that the car is located at the selected site and displays the payment information to the user which then initializes the payment by entering a code or password. After verification, the control center starts the washing program. This configuration requires the user to enter the license plate number which is compared to a picture of the car in order to confirm that the user is in fact present at the site. This confirmation process is necessary since the link to the webpage and the ID number of the car wash facility are displayed on the exterior of the car wash facility. Furthermore, the mobile phone requires an Internet connection to communicate with the control center of the car wash network and requires the car wash to have a camera and an image processing unit installed in order to verify that the user is at the selected site. This also requires the license plate to be positioned in view of the camera; otherwise the car wash will not start.

Object of the Invention

An object of the invention is to provide means for accessing and selecting a service station comprising a washing or pumping facility independent of the actual connection to the data network.

An object of the invention is to provide means for verifying that the user is at the selected location.

An object of the invention is to provide an application for a mobile device from which a user may select a service program such as a washing or pumping program.

An object of this invention is to provide means for locating and selecting a service station among different types of service stations.

An object of the invention is to provide a simple way to perform a payment for a selected service at a service station.

Description of the Invention

An object of the invention is achieved by a system for selecting and communicating with a service station comprising a plurality of service programs characterized in that - an application is configured to run on the mobile communication device through which the user may select a service program at a specific facility; and - the system is configured to verify that the user is present at the selected facility by determining the user's geolocation.

This system allows the user to access the selected facility without using a local wireless connection or a terminal at the service station. The term "service station" is defined as any station containing a washing facility for washing vehicles and / or a pumping facility for refueling vehicles or inflating tires where the service station may be manned or unmanned. The term "service process" is defined as any automated or semi-automated washing process configured to follow a selected washing program as well as any pumping process configured to pump fuel into a tank or gas into a tire. This allows the user to use a reliable and stable mobile wireless connection instead of the local wireless connection. The application on the mobile communication device allows the user to use the telephone features to acquire a set of unique site identification data from that particular site. This site identification data is then analyzed by the data processing unit on the server to verify or confirm that the user is present at the selected site. The site identification data may be geolocation data which is transmitted to the server and optionally generated at the site. The user may access a webpage, e.g. located on the server, on which the user may generate a user profile before downloading the application to the mobile phone. The user profile may be generated on the mobile phone when the application is activated for the first time, after which the user profile may be transmitted to the server. This also allows the user to perform a payment for the wash in a simple manner without having to interact with a terminal or using the local wireless connection.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the facility comprises a wireless access point configured to communicate with the server, and the application is configured to communicate with the access point via a first wireless connection.

This allows the user to transmit a request to the server through the application using a known source address, such as an Internet protocol address, to identify the site. The address allows the data processing unit to determine the position or location of the user by comparing the source address to a list of known addresses. The known addresses may be arranged in the database or a second database. Each of the known addresses is associated with a particular washing or pumping facility, thereby allowing the data processing unit to verify that the user is at the selected position. Each service station or even any facility may comprise a wireless hotspot or access point, such as a WIFI module or a WLAN module, which may be connected to the server via a wired or wireless Internet connection. The application may then use this wireless network to communicate with the server.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the facility comprises unique means for identifying that particular site, which unique means are configured so that they may be transferred to the application, and the application is configured to be connected to the server via a second wireless connection.

This allows the user to transmit a request to the server through the application using an unknown address, such as an Internet protocol address from a mobile data network provider. The unique means allows the data processing unit to identify the site using the telephone features, such as the camera, microphone, GPS, or simply the keypad / touch screen. The server transmits a request to the user via the application asking for identification of the site. The user may then use the camera to capture an image of the site or to scan a code located on the site. An image processing module in the application or in the mobile phone, e.g. a scanner or a reader, may be configured to process the image and extract the coded data (metadata). The data processing unit in the server then receives the coded data (metadata) and compares it to a reference database in order to confirm that the user is located at that site. The code may be configured as a QR code, a barcode, a tag or another type of code comprising embedded metadata. The time required for scanning or processing the code may be used to evaluate the quality of the code and thereby indicate if the code should be replaced or changed. Alternatively, the user may capture an image of the washing facility or part thereof, and the embedded metadata in the image may be used to identify that particular site. The data processing unit may determine the user's position or location using mobile phone positioning, such as multilateration of radio signals, GPS positioning, triangulation of mobile network or another location-based service. The washing facility may comprise an audio generator configured to generate a unique sound or sound pattern which may be picked up by the microphone in the mobile phone. The stored sound or sound pattern may then be processed by an audio processing unit in the application (and then transmitted to the server) or in the data processing unit at the server confirming that the user is at that site. The sound or sound pattern may be generated within a frequency band located inside or outside of the frequency band detectable by humans (about 20-20kHz). A unique site identification number displayed on the site may be entered into the application via the keypad / touch screen on the mobile phone and then transmitted to the server. The server then compares it to the reference database in order to confirm that the user is at that site. An NFC unit at the washing or pumping facility and in the mobile phone may be used to transfer the site identification number or code to the application which transmits it to the server. The number or code is then compared to the reference database in order to confirm that the user is at that site.

According to a specific embodiment of the invention, the unique means are configured as dynamic unique means which are configured to change their value at a predetermined event.

This allows the unique means located in the washing or pumping facility to change their value so that the code or number may not be copied and used at other sites. The unique means may be configured to change its value at the end of a predetermined time interval or each time the unique means has been used to confirm the user's position. The unique site identification number may be displayed on a display inside that facility so that the risk of being copied is reduced. The audio generator may be configured to alter the unique sound or sound pattern so that a new sound or sound pattern is generated each time. The reference database is updated every time so that the data processing unit is able to confirm that the received unique means are the same as the one displayed or generated at that site.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the data processing unit comprises an authorization module configured to perform an authorization process of an account associated with the user.

This allows the data processing unit to determine the identity of the user making the request by comparing the identification number to a database located on or connected to the server. The database may comprise a list of known identification number or other identification means each of which is associated with a user profile. The identification number may refer to a unique number of a mobile phone, i.e. an Android phone associated with the user. This allows the data processing unit to retrieve the user's stored settings, such as the account and or other information, such as credit card or bank information, regarding the preferred payment method. If the request contains an unknown identification number, then the authorization module transmits a request to the user via the application asking the user to identify himself. The user may then enter a password and either a user name (or user number) both of which are compared to the user profiles stored in the database. The identification number may refer to the application, i.e. on an Apple phone, and may change every time the application or phone is updated. The updated identification number may be stored in the user profile. An electrical key generator, a list of predetermined keys or a temporary key (e.g. received via SMS or IM) may be used to identify the user where each key may only be used once. Alternatively, a digital signature may be used to identify the user. The user may enter information associated with an account belonging to the user, such as credit card or bank information. This allows the data processing unit to verify the user's identification and carry out the payment process.

According to a specific embodiment of the invention, the application is configured to communicate with a graphic user interface served by the server, whereas the graphic user interface is configured to display the service programs at a particular facility from which the user may select a service program. .

This enables the application in a simple embodiment to direct the user to a graphical user interface (GUI) served by or on the server which is configured to run on and interact with a mobile phone. This allows the user to interact with the server via the mobile communication device instead of interacting with the application on the mobile communication device, where the application in turn communicates with the server and the databases in order to retrieve the necessary data. Upon initialization of the application, the application may be configured to connect with the server and communicate with the GUI. The GUI may be configured to display a number of different pages / menus configured to display various information to the user, such as a list of washing programs, a list of washing facilities, user settings (user profile), prices and the like. The GUI may be further configured to provide information such as a list of pumps, a list of pumping programs, prices and the like. The pumping programs may be configured to carry out one or more pumping operations, e.g. pump a predetermined amount of fuel or gas into the tank or tire, or pump fuel or gas equivalent to a predetermined amount of money into the tank or tire. The user may use the keypad or touch screen on the mobile phone to interact with the GUI. The application may be configured to communicate with a webpage, a remote desktop or another user interface on the server. This allows at least some of the functions of the application to be performed on the server instead of on the mobile phone, thus reducing the amount of free space and capacity needed to run the application on the mobile phone. New and updated functions may be quickly uploaded to the application via the server.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the application comprises a navigation module configured to guide the user to a selected facility and or to indicate the location of at least one facility.

This allows the user to locate a desired washing or pumping facility or the facility closest to the user. The application may be configured to display a list of washing or pumping facilities from which the user may select one. The application may be configured to display a map indicating the locations of these facilities from which the user may select one. The location data and other relevant data of each facility may be stored in a database in the server. The navigation module may be configured to guide the user to the selected washing or pumping facility using a navigation technique, such as GPS. The navigation module may use a navigation feature in the mobile phone to guide the user. The navigation module may be configured to display the locations on a map stored on the server or use a map feature, such as Goggle maps or the like, in the mobile phone to display the locations. The server may be connected to a network of washing and / or pumping facilities of different types, such as service stations from different companies. In addition, allowing the user to view all the service stations in the network. The application may be configured to apply one or more user selected filters to the displayed list or folder.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the data processing unit is configured to retrieve status information from at least a selected facility.

This allows the user to receive information about the status of a selected washing or pumping facility, i.e. whether it is currently being used or if it is reserved at a later time. The information may be displayed to the user as a simple text message or a graphic representation. The data processing unit at the server may be configured to transmit a request to the selected facility and receive a corresponding answer indicating the status. The status information may be used to generate a set of statistical information to the system manager. The server may comprise a time table for each facility or a common time table for all the facilities, such as for a selected washing facility or all of these. A booking module may be configured to access the time table and allow the user to reserve a desired time interval at a selected site, e.g. from a known or unknown address, which is then stored in the table. When the user arrives at the selected site at the desired time, the user is requested to verify or confirm that he is present at the site, as described earlier. The booking module may be connected to and or communicate with the navigation module, so that the user may be guided to the selected site. The booking module and or navigation module may be configured to determine the user's position at one or more predetermined time intervals before the reserved time interval and calculate the traveling time to the selected site. This allows the user to receive a message or notification in advance before the reserved time interval so that the user arrives at the site in time. The user may use the application to "pre-order" a predetermined service, e.g. a washing program or a pumping service, which is then carried out when the user has verified that he is actually at the selected facility.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the application is configured to display a current progress of the selected service program, such as a washing program.

This allows the user to view the status of the washing program where the status may be displayed as a text message and or a graphic representation. This enables the user to be informed of the progress of the washing program, especially if he is moving about outside the washing area. This may reduce the idle time of the washing facility.

According to one embodiment, the service station comprises at least one washing facility configured to carry out a washing process for a vehicle according to at least one washing program and / or at least one pumping facility configured to carry out a pumping process for refueling a vehicle or inflating a tire according to a pumping program.

The application may advantageously be configured to communicate with a washing facility, e.g. a stand-alone station, allowing the user to select a desired washing facility and optionally book a time period at that facility. Advantageously, the application may also be configured to communicate with a pumping facility, e.g. a stand-alone station or a combined washing and pumping station, allowing the user to select and pay for a pumping service at that facility. This allows a safer activation of the selected facility when using a smart phone and allows the flow of users through each facility to be improved.

An object of the invention is achieved by a method for selecting and communicating with a service station comprising a plurality of service programs characterized in that - the user selects a service program at a specific facility at the service station using an application running on the mobile communication Device; and - the system verifies that the user is present at the selected facility by determining the user's geolocation.

This allows the user to communicate with a washing or pumping facility at a service station without using a local wireless connection or a terminal at the site. The application allows the user to use a mobile data network or a wireless module in the mobile communication device, such as a mobile phone, to communicate with the server, e.g. via an Internet connection. The use of an application on the mobile phone allows the user to remain in the car during the entire process, and eliminates the need to interact with a terminal in the particular facility, especially during the payment process. The user may access a webpage, e.g. on the server, and generate a user profile indicating information about the preferred payment method. The user profile may instead be generated when the user activates the application for the first time, after which the user profile may be transmitted to the server.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the user connects to a wireless network generated by a wireless access point at the facility or transmits unique means for identifying that particular site to the data processing unit in the server via the mobile communication device.

This allows the system to verify that the user is present at the selected site, thereby preventing the user or a third person from activating the facility from another location. The wireless access point at the washing or pumping facility enables the data processing unit to verify that the user is present at the site, since the source address of the request transmitted by the user is known to the server. If the user uses another access point, such as the mobile data network from the telephone provider or another Internet access point, the data processing unit transmits a request to the user, since the source address in the request is unknown. The user then uses the telephone features to acquire the unique identification means located at that site and then transmits these to the server. The unique means are preferably located inside the washing facility or at the pumping facility in order to reduce the risk of the means being copied. A QR code, a barcode or another code located on the site may be scanned or an image of at least part of the facility may be captured using the camera in the mobile phone. An image processing module, such as a scanner or reader, may analyze the image and extract the code (metadata). The data processing unit then compares the received code or metadata with a database in order to confirm that the user is present at that site. One or more light sources in the form of LEDs may be arranged at the washing or pumping facility where the light sources may be configured to generate a particular light or light pattern. The camera on the mobile communication device may then be used to pick up the emitted light or light pattern. The image processing module may then be used to analyze the image in order to extract the code or metadata. A unique sound or sound pattern may be picked up using the microphone in the mobile phone and analyzed by an audio processing unit. The picked up sound or sound pattern may be transmitted to the data processing unit which then compares it to a database in order to confirm that the user is present at that site. A unique identification number displayed on the site may be transmitted to the data processing unit which then compares it to a database in order to confirm that the user is present at that site. The unique means may change their value according to a predetermined event, such as at the end of the time interval or after the unique means has been used to confirm the position of the user.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the data processing unit performs an authorization process for identifying an account associated with the user.

This allows the system to identify the user making the request which includes an identification number of the user. If the identification number received matches one of the identification numbers stored in the user profiles in the database, the user is known to the system. If the received identification number does not match, then the data processing unit transmits a request to the user asking for identification. The user then has to transmit another type of information identifying the user. A user name / code and a password may be transmitted to and verified by the data processing unit. A digital signature may be used to identify the user. A key generated electronically, a predetermined key or a temporal key may be used to identify the user. The authorization process may vary depending on the platform used in the mobile communication device. The user may transmit information regarding an account, such as a credit card or a bank account, belonging to the user. This allows the data processing unit to identify the user and carry out the payment process. If the user cannot be identified or the information is incorrect, the request is rejected.

According to one embodiment of the invention, the data processing unit retrieves status information from at least a selected facility.

This allows the data processing unit to collect status information from the washing facilities, such as in use or not in use, vehicles in line, out of service or other types of status information. The server may comprise a time table for each washing facility or a common time table for all which may be accessed by a booking module in the application. The collected status information may also be retrieved from the pumping facilities and may comprise data such as different types of pumps, pumps in use or not, pumps out or service, or the like. The status information may be shown as text messages or a graphic representation on the mobile phone. The collected status information may be used to generate a set of statistical data for a manager of the system. The application may display the current progress of the selected washing program using a text message or a graphic representation.

According to one embodiment of the invention, a navigation module in the application guides the user to a selected facility and / or indicates the location of at least one facility-

The navigation module allows the user to locate a desired washing or pumping facility or the nearest one. The location of the facilities may be displayed on a map or on a list which is adapted to be displayed on the mobile phone. This allows the user to find his preferred washing or pumping facility or facility nearby. The navigation module may guide the user to the selected facility using a navigation technique, such as GPS. The navigation module in the mobile phone may be used to guide the user to his destination. By combining the navigation module with the booking module, the application is able to determine the traveling time to the selected facility where the user has a reservation. This allows the system to generate a message or notification which is transmitted to the user indicating when the user should leave in order to arrive at the washing or pumping facility in time for his reservation. The user may use the application to "pre-order" a predetermined service before arriving at the site where that service is performed when the user has verified that he is at the site.

The application described above may in another embodiment be used to select and communicate with an electrical appliance, such as a washing machine, a dryer, a kitchen appliance, an entertainment appliance or another appliance. The electrical appliance may comprise a wireless access point for connecting with the application on a mobile communication device, such as a mobile phone, via an Internet connection. The electrical appliance may instead comprise a wireless module configured to connect to the mobile communication device via a local wireless network, such as a personal or home data network, in which the appliance is located. The wireless module may instead be configured to connect to a wireless communication module in the mobile communication device using Bluetooth, WIFI, NFC, IR or another wireless connection. The application may be configured to control the functions of the electrical appliance instead of the user interface on the electrical appliance. This allows the user interface of the electrical appliance to be omitted and instead configured as an application for a mobile communication device. As described above, the telephone features or the source address of the wireless access point may be used to identify the user so that a third person cannot activate the electrical appliance. The application may be configured to start / stop the appliance, start the appliance at a later time, select a desired program, display the current status or progress of the appliance / program, or other relevant features. By omitting the user interface from the electrical appliance and instead using a wireless communication module, the size and production costs may be reduced. Furthermore, the use of an application allows new functions of the electrical appliance to be added or an update of the correct functions.

The described method may be used for simple and easy payment for a service using the mobile communication device in general, where the user's position is determined using geolocation. This allows the payment process to be carried out when the user's position has been verified using unique identification means located on the site. The unique means may be scanned, picked up or entered using the features of the mobile communication device, such as the camera, reader or scanner, microphone or keypad / touch screen, thereby allowing the payment process to be carried out independently of the actual data network connection.

Description of the Drawings

The invention is described by example only and with reference to the drawings, wherein:

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary flowchart of the communication between the individual units in the system;

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary flowchart of the application configured for different platforms according to the invention;

FIG. 3 shows a first exemplary screenshot on a mobile communication device;

FIG. 4 shows a second exemplary screenshot on a mobile communication device;

FIG. 5 shows a third exemplary screenshot on a mobile communication device; and FIG. 6 shows a fourth exemplary screenshot on a mobile communication device.

In the following text, the figures will be described one by one and the different parts and positions seen in the figures will be numbered with the same numbers in the different figures. Not all parts and positions indicated in a specific figure will necessarily be discussed together with that figure.

Detailed Description of the Invention

FIG. 1 shows an exemplary flowchart of the communication between the individual units in the system according to the invention. The system comprises at least one mobile communication device 1 which may comprise at least one wireless communication module (not shown). The wireless communication module may be configured to connect to a mobile data network, e.g. provided by a network provider. The mobile communication device may be a mobile phone, a smart phone, a personal digital assistant, a tablet or another handheld communication device.

The mobile communication device 1 is configured to communicate with at least one central server 2 via a wireless data network using a wireless connection, e.g. a wireless Internet connection. The central server 2 may be configured to manage the communication between the mobile communication device 1 and a network of service stations comprising one or more washing facilities 3 connected to the server 2. The washing facility 3 may comprise a number of elements (not shown) configured to carry out at least one washing process for a vehicle according to at least one washing program. The washing facility 3 may comprise one or more washing areas in which the elements may be arranged. The washing facility 3 may be a washing facility for cars, trucks, motorcycles or other vehicles. The server 2 may be connected to the washing facilities 3 by a wired or wireless data network using an Internet connection or another wired or wireless connection. The further details of the washing facility 3 are known and will not be described in details.

An application 4 configured to run on the mobile communication device 1 may be stored on the mobile communication device 1. The application 4 may be transferred directly to the mobile communication device 1 via the wireless connection in the mobile communication 1 or transferred to the mobile communication device 1 via an intermediate device (not shown), such as a computer or a memory stick. The central server 2 may comprise a webpage (not shown) which may be accessed from the mobile communication device 1 or another Internet connection. A user may generate a user profile on the webpage which is then stored in a database on the server 2 or on a memory connected to the server 2. The user profile may comprise details about the preferred payment method or payment process, information identifying the user , such as user name / code and a password, or other relevant information.

The application 4 may be configured as a washing application configured to select and communicate with at least one of the washing facilities 3 via the server 2. The webpage may be used to set up the application 4 before installing it on the mobile communication device. The set up (user profile) of the application 4 may be changed at a later time via the mobile communication device 1 or the webpage on the server 2.

When application 4 is activated, application 4 may transmit a request 5 to the central server 2 to request a washing facility 3 to perform a wash. The request 4 may comprise a source address and an identification number of the user (or the mobile communication device 1). The source address may be an Internet protocol address identifying the access point used to connect to the server 2. The identification number may be a unique number identifying the user or the mobile communication device 1. A data processing unit on the server 2 may then analyze the source address and the identification number in order to determine the location or position of the user and that the user matches one of the user profiles.

If the data processing unit verifies or confirms that the user is present at the selected site and that the user has a user profile or that the account belongs to the user, the central server 2 then transmits a request 6 to the selected washing facility 3. The washing facility 3 then returns a proper answer 7 to the request 6. The answer 7 may comprise status information, an indication of available washing programs at the washing facility 3, vehicles waiting in line or other relevant information.

The central server 2 may then transmit a list of available washing programs to the application 4 in the mobile communication device 1. The user may then select a desired washing program 9 which is transmitted back to central server 2. The data processing unit then carries out the payment process 10 according to the payment method indication in the user profile. The payment process 10 may involve deducting an amount corresponding to the selected washing program from the user's account. The payment process 10 may be carried out by a separate payment unit via a payment gateway 11 for security reasons where the payment unit receives the payment information from the server 2. Other types of payment may be used, such as credit card or bank card, electronic money transfer or bank transfer. The payment unit may then return an identification number to the server 2 which may be used to identify the user. When the payment process 10 is completed, an end signal 13 is returned to the central server 2. If the payment cannot be carried out, an error signal is returned which in turn is transmitted to the user.

The central server 2 then transmits a start signal 13 to the washing facility 3 which then activates the selected washing program. The washing facility may transmit status information 14 about the current washing program back to the central server 2. The central server 2 may then relay 15 the status information to the user where the status information may be displayed as a test message or a graphic representation information the user of the progress. After washing is completed, application 4 may be deactivated.

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary flowchart of the application 4 configured for different platforms according to the invention. The application 4 is first activated 16 by the user manually activating the application 4 or it is activated automatically according to a predetermined event. The application 4 may be started 16 when the mobile communication device 1 detects that it is within the range of a local access point located at the washing facility 3.

The application 4 then determines if a wireless connection, e.g. An Internet connection, to a wireless network is available or not. If a wireless connection is available 17, then the application 4 may use this connection to communicate with the server 2. If a wireless connection is not available 18, then the application 4 may request 19 the user to establish a wireless connection to a wireless network using one of the wireless modules in a first type of mobile communication device la. In a second type of mobile communication device lb, the application 4 may request 20 that the user manually establishes a wireless connection to a wireless network using one of the wireless modules in the device lb. The application 4 may instead automatically search for a wireless connection. If more than one wireless connection is found 21, 22, then the user may select a desired connection. The application 4 may use the mobile data network 21 to communicate with the server 2. The application 4 may instead use a local access point 22 at the washing facility 3 to communicate with the server 2. The mobile communication device lb may be set up to automatically use a specific wireless connection, eg the local access point 22, when running the application 4.

The data processing unit in the server 2 may comprise an authorization module (not shown) configured to authorize or identify the user. The authorization module may compare the identification number received with the request to a database (not shown) located on or connected to the server 2. The database may comprise a list of known identification numbers or other identification means, each of which is associated with a user profile. If the request contains an unknown identification number, then the authorization module transmits a request to the user via the application 4 asking the user to identify himself. The information received is then compared to the information in the user profiles in order to identify the user. Other authorization processes may be used.

After establishing a wireless connection to the server 2, the application 4 determines if the source address transmitted with the request is known or not. The data processing unit in sever 2 may compare the source address to a database with known source addresses in order to determine the location or position of the user, e.g. via geolocation. If the source address is known 23, such as the address of the local wireless access point, the user is within the range of that access point which is located at a particular washing facility 3. If the source address is unknown 24, such as if the connection is made via a mobile data network, then the server 2 transmits a request to the user asking him to confirm or verify that he is present at the selected site. Each washing facility 3 may comprise unique means for identifying that site which may be transmitted to the data processing unit in sever 2. The unique means may be transferred to the mobile communication device 1 using the features in the device, such as the camera, the microphone or the keypad / touch screen. The unique means may be a QR code, a barcode or another code which may be scanned 24a and processed by an image processing unit (scanner or reader) in the application 4 or in the mobile communication device 1. The unique means may be a unique identification number which may be entered 24b into application 4 via the keypad or touch screen in the mobile communication device 1. The code or metadata is then transmitted back to the server 2 and analyzed by the data processing unit to verify or confirm that the user is present at the selected site.

The server 2 then retrieves a list of washing programs from the selected washing facility 3 and transmits it to the mobile communication device 1. The application 4 then displays 25 the list to the user. The washing programs may instead be displayed as a matrix.

The user then selects a desired washing program 26 which is transmitted to the server 2. The server 2 then transmits a control signal to the selected washing facility 3 indicating the selected washing program. The washing facility 3 then starts the washing process.

Figs. 3-6 show a number of exemplary screenshots of the application 4 on the mobile communication device 1. The mobile communication device 1 may comprise a screen 28 in the form of a touch screen. The application 4 may comprise a number of different menus or screenshots each menu / screenshot may be configured to match a specific function in the application.

FIG. 3 shows a first exemplary screenshot of a main menu comprising one or more touch areas 29, 30, 31 each of which represent a particular function in the application 4. Each of the touch areas 29, 30, 31 may direct the user to another menu , as shown in figs. 4-6. The main menu may comprise one or more smaller touch areas 32, 33 which may be configured to guide the user for more information about the application 4 or the specific functions in the application 4. One of the smaller areas 32, 33 may be dedicated to exiting (logging of) the application 4. One of the areas 29, 30, 31 may be dedicated to directing the user to his user profile where he may update the information in his user profile, such as correct the preferred payment method or refill the account.

FIG. 4 shows a second sample screenshot of a menu indicating a list of washing programs at a selected washing facility 3. The menu may comprise a number of touch areas 34, 35, 36 each of which represents a particular washing program available at the selected washing facility 3. The touch areas 34, 35, 36 may represent a line in a matrix indicating further details about the washing programs. Part 37 of the menu and screen area may decide to display information to the user, such as a text message or other relevant information. The part 37 may also be used to display commercials for various products, e.g. products related to the washing process.

FIG. 5 shows a third exemplary screenshot of a menu indicating the selected washing program. The menu may comprise a number of touch areas 38, 39 each of which represent various options to the user. The user may accept the selected washing program by selecting one of the touch areas 38 which then transmits the selected program to the server 2, as shown in fig. 1. The user may reject the selected washing program by selecting another one of the touch areas 39 which then returns the user to one of the previous menus, e.g. the main menu or menu indicating the list of washing programs. Part 40 of the menu and screen area may be dedicated to displaying information to the user, such as safety information or other relevant information. The part 40 may also be used to display commercials for various products, e.g. products related to the washing process.

FIG. 6 shows a fourth exemplary screenshot of a menu indicating the status of the selected washing program. The menu may comprise one or more areas 41 dedicated to displaying the status or progress of the washing program. The status or progress may be displayed as a graphic representation which is updated via the server 2. Another area 42 may be dedicated to display information related to the washing process, such as the remaining time for completion of the washing process. A third area 43 may be dedicated to displaying a variety of information to the user. The part 43 may also be used to display commercials for various products.

In another embodiment, application 4 may be used to communicate with one or more pumping facilities 3 at the service station. The pumping facility 3 may comprise a number of pumps configured to carry out a pumping process according to a pumping program, e.g. pumping fuel into a tank based on a selected predetermined amount of fuel or amount of money.

Claims (15)

1. A system for selecting and communicating with a service station comprising a plurality of service programs, wherein the system comprises - at least one service station comprising one or more facilities (3) configured to carry out a service process for a vehicle according to at least one service program, wherein the facility (3) is configured to communicate with at least one central server (2); - the server (2) comprises a data processing unit which is configured so that at least one user may communicate with the server via a mobile communication device (1) comprising at least one wireless communication module characterized in that, - an application (4) is configured to run on the mobile communication device (1) through which the user may select a service program at a specific facility (3); and - the system is configured to verify that the user is present at the selected facility (3) by determining the geolocation of the user.

2. A system according to claim 1, wherein the facility (3) comprises a wireless access point configured to communicate with the server (2), and wherein the application (4) is configured to communicate with the access point via a first wireless connection.

3. A system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the facility (3) comprises unique means for identifying that particular site, wherein the unique means are configured so that they may be transferred to the application (4), and wherein the application (4) is configured to be connected to the server (2) via a second wireless connection.

4. A system according to claim 3, wherein the unique means are configured as dynamic unique means which are configured to change their value at a predetermined event.

5. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the data processing unit comprises an authorization module configured to perform an authorization process of an account associated with the user.

6. A system according any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the application (4) is configured to communicate with a graphic user interface served by the server (2), wherein the graphic user interface is configured to display the service programs at a particular facility (3) from which the user may select a service program.

7. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the application (4) comprises a navigation module configured to guide the user to a selected facility (3) and or to indicate the location of at least one facility (3).

8. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the data processing unit is configured to retrieve status information from at least one selected facility (3).

9. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the application (4) is configured to display a current progress of the selected service program.

10. A system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the service station comprises at least one washing facility (3) configured to carry out a washing process for a vehicle according to at least one washing program and/or at least one pumping facility (3) configured to carry out a pumping process for refuelling a vehicle or inflating a tire according to a pumping program.

11. A method for selecting and communicating with a service station according to any one of claims 1-10, wherein the method comprises the steps of - at least one facility (3) at the service station carries out a service process for a vehicle according to at least one service program, wherein at least one central server (2) activates the facilities (3); - a data processing unit in the server (2) communicates with at least one mobile communication device (1) of a user via a wireless connection characterized in that, - the user selects a service program at a specific facility (3) at the service station using an application (4) running on the mobile communication device (1); and - the system verifies that the user is present at the selected facility (3) by determining the geolocation of the user.

12. A method according to claim 11, wherein the user connects to a wireless network generated by a wireless access point at the facility (3) or transmits unique means for identifying that particular site to the data processing unit in the server (2) via the mobile communication device (1).

13. A method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the data processing unit performs an authorisation process for identifying an account associated with the user.

14. A method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the data processing unit retrieves status information from at least one selected facility (3).

15. A method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein a navigation module in the application guides the user to a selected facility (3) and or indicates the location of at least one facility (3).