EP1498855A2 - Method and system for renting vehicles - Google Patents

Abstract

Hire vehicle management method for use with a vehicle management system comprising data storage, communications and control devices with at least a part of the vehicle management system being onboard a vehicle and with at least a communications channel for data transfer between a vehicle and a central control system. When a communications channel is formed between a vehicle and the central control system, a further link is formed from the vehicle communications system to a user communications terminal. Independent claims are also included for the following:- (a) a central system forming part of a vehicle management system and; (b) a vehicle data processing system forming part of a hire vehicle management system with a communications channel to a central system.

Description

The invention relates to a method for managing vehicles according to the Preamble of claim 1, a central system according to the preamble of Patent claim 18, a processing device in a vehicle according to the Preamble of claim 35, a computer program product according to the Preamble of claim 49 and. a computer program product according to the preamble of claim 58.

There are already systems that give customers keyless access to a vehicle to be rented. A system is described at www.invers.com under the name COCOS Standalone. It combines a vehicle computer with an integrated mobile module. This system can be used in car-sharing systems as well as for fleets and fleet systems. It is suitable for decentralized locations with few vehicles. The known system used in the vehicle an on-board computer (control unit) as an immobilizer. If a customer wants to reserve a vehicle, he reserves it with a booking center. From there, the data is sent by mobile phone (GSM SMS) to the on-board computer of the reserved vehicle. The on-board computer also knows which customer is authorized to drive at what time.

The customer owns a contactless chip card of the landlord and was on the property a valid driver's license. He holds the chip card in front of the card reader Windscreen of the vehicle. The on-board computer checks the data of the chip card and the data of the reservation and opens the vehicle via the central locking. If the customer has the PIN belonging to the card on the on-board computer keyboard enters correctly, the immobilizer is deactivated. The vehicle key receives the Customer from a key holder in the glove box. In general, almost all Components of the on-board computer turned off, the quiescent power consumption low to keep and not unnecessarily burden the electrical system. This also applies to the card reader. Card readers and on-board computers are awakened only when a chip card is the Card reader is approaching.

After completion of the journey, the vehicle is completed with the smart card and the On-board computer automatically sends the driving data to the billing computer one Headquarters. Among other things, the mileage is communicated to the central system. To do this the on-board computer while driving the number of pulses of the electronic Tachometers of the vehicle. Whenever a certain number of impulses is reached, the distance traveled is stored in the on-board computer and added up. The system also provides a connection to a fuel card, so that the Tank data also be sent automatically to the central system. The known System can also be upgraded with a position-determining device (GPS). Of the On-board computer can then be configured to either position only End of the journey or in addition determines the position of each break and sent to the Central system can be transferred.

The problem with the known system is that in each vehicle additional Components must be installed. Especially when used for the Vehicle rental for example on airfields can be assumed that the vehicles are replaced or exchanged quickly, resulting in a complicated retrofitting of vehicles adversely affects.

In another system, the vehicles are from the customer via the Internet reserved and picked up at an unmanned rental station and again returned. As soon as the customer arrives at the rental station, he calls Vehicle acquisition with his mobile phone to a central system. By use of a GSM module in the vehicle, the operator unlocks the vehicle. It will be Central locking and immobilizer deactivated. The customer removes the Car key from the glove box and the vehicle is ready to drive. In the Returns the vehicle after a call in the central system by the Operator closed again.

Furthermore, from DE 196 47 477 C2 a method for testing the Rental entitlement of a motor vehicle known. This is initially using ChipKarte checks the access authorization to a permanently installed machine. In a second step is then checked via a reader of the driver's license and the Test results are sent to a central system, upon successful verification then release a key pocket.

DE 195 08 370 C2 proposes a method for securing vehicles unauthorized use. About receiving data from one Central device is the operation of a vehicle allows the absence of the data decommissioning of the vehicle by an in-vehicle Control unit has consequence. The usage restrictions are in the central system stored and can be transmitted to the vehicle. Be this Use restrictions exceeded so again the vehicle is out of service taken.

In addition, a system is described in DE 100 50 984 A1, the detection and Monitoring of the operating status and availability of rental vehicles is used. In a vehicle device is a data recording device for receiving Vehicle data arranged, which includes a data memory and a transmitting device includes. A central device with a receiving device and an associated Memory stores the data received from the transmitting device of the vehicle and determines from these the vehicle condition and thus the availability.

The object of the invention is to provide a further method and apparatus for Hiring vehicles to provide that allow the customer without an office of the landlord or a rental machine to rent a vehicle and deliver again.

The object is achieved according to the invention by the features of the independent claims 1, 18, 35, 49 and 58 solved. Further embodiments of the invention will become apparent from the Dependent claims.

In a method of managing vehicles using one of a or several parts built vehicle management system according to the The preamble is inventively provided that between a to rent Vehicle and a central system such as a vehicle rental company Communication channel is constructed and that of a communication means of the User a communication channel to at least a part of a Vehicle management system is built. The vehicle management system exists from the central system together with the vehicles to be rented. in this connection At least part of the vehicle management system has at least one Storage device, via at least one communication device and over at least one control device. At least part of the Vehicle management system is arranged in a vehicle, wherein over at least an established communication channel from the central device to Receiving device of the vehicle data and / or commands are transferred.

Was a customer reservation for a keyless vehicle transfer of a to be rented vehicle and transmitted to a central device and stored in a storage medium of the central device, the Central device the reservation request assign a corresponding vehicle. The customer will receive a confirmation of reservation. The goal of Submission may be a means of communication previously selected by the customer For example, a cell phone, fax machine, email address or the like. The Reservation confirmation can include data such as operation number, system address to Establishment of a communication channel immediately before renting the vehicle and other relevant vehicle data such as location, license plate and vehicle type include. Before the rental begins, the customer sends to verify the identity of the customer Customer specified system address the data necessary for identification, such as for example, transaction number, user name and PIN to a receiving device, which forwards this data to a processing device which is part of the Vehicle management system is. The processing device can be part of the Central system or be arranged in the vehicle itself. The Receiving device and the processing device can be in a component be combined. The means of communication used by the customer can be chosen freely be. Conceivable here are terminals that are operated by the vehicle rental company, mobile or Landline telephones, data connections, for example via the Internet, Radio links such as e.g. Wi-Fi and other connections. The transmitted data are checked by the processing device. Then, if necessary, the necessary measures taken to unlock the vehicle and into one ready to drive condition. Detailed vehicle information can also be sent later in some time before the rental date the user. this applies especially for the location of the vehicle. The time can be between 1 minute and 3 Hours or even longer, depending on when the information is Central system available.

This would have the advantage that the rental of vehicles outside the Hours of rental offices and / or that a delivery to places where the rental company has no office or rental equipment (for example, in hotels, companies, Stations) and / or that the operation of unmanned stations would be possible.

In a preferred embodiment, the user identification of one in the Central system arranged processing device performed. After successful Checking the identity of the user is between the central system and the Reservation assigned to the vehicle is a communication channel set up over the then the vehicle the relevant data for the tenancy transmitted and then in can be stored in a storage medium. A control device in the vehicle unlocks the vehicle and puts it in a ready-to-drive state. The vehicle can now used by the customer as usual.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the user identification of a processing device performed in the vehicle. For this it is necessary that in the vehicle the data required to verify the identity of the customer for the Processing device in the vehicle are available. This can be guaranteed by after allocation of a vehicle to a reservation, the required Data about a built between vehicle and central system Communication channel are transmitted. In this course, more for the Lease relevant data, such as beginning and end of the lease, reservation number and other information. As soon as that Vehicle has confirmed the receipt of the data to the central system becomes one Data message (e.g., SMS) generated to the customer, preferably Location information and identifier for reaching the vehicle via a Communication link (e.g., phone number of the vehicle) contains. The Data message will be sent to the customer specified at the time of reservation System address sent. A system address can be an email address, a Phone number to which a data message can be sent, or another Identifier for a communication connection. The exact time for the Sending the data message can be configured by the disposition, for example, the location information about 1 to 3 hours, preferably 90 minutes before the planned rental start. To verify the customer's identity, the customer takes To Mietbeginn via a communication channel on a connection to the vehicle. In the vehicle arranged in the processing device then the data of Customers with the previously transmitted data from the central facility with those of the via the communication channel established by the customer compared. In the case of correspondence, the vehicle then settles in an operational state Condition and unlocks. A key that the vehicle uses during the Rental period can be started and locked and unlocked, is located in Vehicle. The vehicle can now be used by the user in the usual way.

A particularly preferred embodiment of the invention provides that the customer can carry out the identification via different communication channels. These For example, communication channels can be accessed using a terminal, the Internet, a landline phone, radio, WiFi, Bluetooth, modem data connection, mobile phones or other data connections.

In a further advantageous embodiment, the customer can lease over end a communication channel. For this purpose, the user builds like the Providing the vehicle a communication channel to a Processing device of the vehicle management system. After review He can report the identity of the lessee to the administration system. Is the Processing device arranged in the central system, it is via a Communication channel between the central system and vehicle information about the end of the lease is transmitted to the vehicle. The vehicle is locked then self-acting. Is the processing device arranged in the vehicle so can the customer establishes a data connection directly to the receiving system to the vehicle to the data for user identification and the information to the end of Lease to convey. The vehicle then locks again automatically.

In a further preferred embodiment, the vehicle is in switched different states. The states in which a vehicle switched For example, you can "reserve" after a rental work to be performed such as cleaning, refueling, etc., "ready for rent", if the Information regarding the reservation, the beginning and / or end of the rental and possibly the customer identification is transmitted to the vehicle and Key and possibly rental agreement are located in the vehicle and the location of the Vehicle is known, "rented" after unlocking the vehicle for the user and has been placed in a running condition and "service", e.g. after completion a tenancy or a routine inspection. The change of one Status in another state is about a in-vehicle Control device regulated. Every change is reported to the central system. The Initialization of a change of state can be done via the central system, a Customers, a service employee or others. For example, the After completion of the necessary work, the service technician will take the vehicle in the "reservation ready" status by notifying the vehicle that the Service work is completed. This can be done via a means of communication built by the service employee to the receiving device of the vehicle Communication channel done. The means of communication may be a mobile phone PDA with infrared or wireless interface, an input device that has a wired or wireless connection with the processing device of the Vehicle can communicate, or be another means of communication. This Condition will be reported to the central system and the vehicle will enter the pool Vehicles taken, which can be rented. Will the vehicle a Reservation, the relevant information will be sent to the Vehicle transmitted. At the beginning of the lease, the vehicle is then placed in the "ready for rent" State switched. Now it is ready if necessary on request of the customer to this establish a communication channel and perform the user identification.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the reservation on the Internet made. The reservation can also be made by phone, in one Rental agency, through a partner company, such as a travel agency or other Communication channels take place.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the over the respective established communication channels sent encrypted data sent. To the Encrypted data can be sent to the reservation data, the information for User identification, the messages about the change of vehicle status, the data after rental and other data belong. Authentication is via one Key, which is an additional component of every message. To the Communication channels over which encrypted information is sent can include a communication channel between the central system and the customer, between central system and vehicle, between customer and vehicle as well as others Communication channels.

In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the times are synchronized to each system. An internal real-time clock of the system, in particular the processing device of the vehicle to be rented, can for example, by the time of a received data message (SMS) be synchronized. For the problem summer / winter time and a use in Europe could make reservations in UTC (Greenwich Time). The Processing device in the vehicle is expandable by a satellite-based Position determining device (GPS receiver). If such a GPS receiver is present in the vehicle (for example, for GEO fencing application), the internal clock with the GPS time are synchronized.

According to an embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the customer is not for a special vehicle, but only for a vehicle category or a vehicle type can decide. This makes a disposition and the introduction of Vehicle categories required. The customer is assigned to one dedicated vehicle. In addition to the normal disposition in the central system executed work steps, further steps are mainly automatic executed. For this purpose, determining the period of time for the vehicle opening, Marking the vehicle as "ready for hire", sending the operation number, Opening period and password (PIN) to the vehicle, sending information to belong to the customers.

In a preferred embodiment, in addition to keyless access to a reserved vehicle also a "keyless" delivery of the rented Vehicle be provided. To do this, the customer builds after having the vehicle has finally parked, a communication link to the receiving device of the Vehicle on, for example via a telephone connection. After handing over his Password (PIN) and sending confirmation data is the vehicle through closed the controller located in the vehicle and a message on the Tenant sent to the central system. In this case, then the billing-relevant data, such as mileage, kilometers traveled, tank contents, Date and / or time transmitted.

Furthermore, a preferred embodiment of the invention to a central system, the a telecommunication module for example an ISDN module, GSM module or a another wireless or wired communication device, a Storage device for storing data, for example from Customer information, vehicle information, reservation data and other data a processing device e.g. to check the user identity, to Assignment of reservations to vehicles and other processing steps includes.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the part of the Vehicle management system located in the vehicle, a telecommunications module, for example, a GSM module or other communication device Interface to a vehicle data bus system, for example, the CAN bus, a Memory device for storing the data and optionally one Position detection device on (e.g., GPS module). This processing device the vehicle takes over the control of the central locking (Open and Lock), control the immobilizer (enable and disable), the Storage and verification of access data and possibly others Features such as identity verification. The processing device, the may also be an already existing in the vehicle control unit, based on a automotive ECU platform. This is especially true for her Undervoltage, EMC and temperature behavior. Furthermore controls the Processing device of the vehicle by means of communication module (GSM module) the data reception of data messages from the central system (e.g., SMS based) and by the customer. The processing device sends confirmation data to the center. Upon receipt of the password from the customer, this and the sender address with those received from the central system and stored in the memory device Data (reservation information) compared. Will a match be in the right one Time window detected, the vehicle is opened and at the same time the immobilizer disabled.

In a further preferred embodiment, the data transmission of the Central system to the reserved vehicle sending the access data of the Customer, for example, customer number, password (PIN) to open and close the Vehicle, period for the customer's access to the vehicle, data about the Tenancy, a status request to the vehicle and others possibly useful data. From the transmitting device of the vehicle are to the central system Data on vehicle status, i. available information about the vehicle, such as mileage, tank information, current / last customer identification (customer number), the actual rental period, the rental agreement, such as driven Kilometers, remaining tank contents, rental period, etc. shipped. From the central system Data is sent to the communication module selected by the customer reserved vehicle, such as location, license plate, type and similar sent, as well as data about the reservation, such as transaction number, Duration, beginning and end of the lease, system address data for the Customer identification responsible connection (e.g. Vehicle or the central facility).

According to an advantageous development of the invention it can be provided that Switching operations that are indirectly or directly related to the rental operation of the processing device of the vehicle to the central system reconfirmed become. Such switching commands may be, for example, that the vehicle from Customer was opened, the first ignition of the customer with date, time and Mileage at the beginning of the lease, the mileage at different times, the switching of the central locking, the automatic locking of the doors, if these are not opened within a certain period of time after automatic opening become. This prevents unauthorized access if the customer orders accidentally transmitted. Other possible switching commands are the circuit of a Time window for the duration of the access authorization by the customer, so that the Vehicle are released after exceeding the time by the central system can, monitoring of free zones by position monitoring with quieter Alarm transmission to a central system when approaching or leaving these zones (e.g., state border) coupled with the ability to initiate a start of Central system off or disable the vehicle to the vehicle during unauthorized use.

Furthermore, a preferred embodiment of the invention before the award of the Passwords of the user by depositing a numeric, alphanumeric or otherwise PIN, which would have the advantage that the customer chooses the self-chosen PIN more easily than one, for example, from the central system automatically generated PINs. To further secure the vehicle access can after a Training the invention biometric methods are used. biometric Systems are used for automatic identification or identity confirmation of Individuals based on physiological or behavioral characteristics. These include voiceprints, hand and finger geometry, eye structure, special movements, handwriting recognition, facial geometry and Fingerprints. The advantages of using such methods are the protection against Abuse and easy access to the vehicle.

A further advantageous embodiment of the invention provides in close proximity to the Vehicle parking information terminals to arrange the customer information supply and, if necessary, give the opportunity to contact the rental company or the Central system in contact. Here you can find information about the instructions for Rental and / or delivery of vehicles, to the current reservation (after Identification), the location map of the pitches and the contact to the rental company to be available.

A preferred embodiment provides for the solution of possible problem cases the operation a central service point that can be contacted by the customer and at can intervene in possible mistakes or offer help. For example, from the Central system sent missed or missed reservation confirmations or the relevant information will be communicated to the customer directly. Furthermore, assistance can be offered if the customer does not use the vehicle takes place by checking the location data and, if necessary, an employee Accompanied by the customer. Furthermore, from the central system the Vehicle directly opened, the state of the vehicle changed or even the System address of the vehicle to be checked. In case of delays of the Customers can also be updated the reservation time. Other forms of Help or troubleshooting is possible.

In a further preferred embodiment of the lease is for the works, the necessary to prepare the vehicle for a new lease, also a keyless access provided by the service staff. For this there is the one Possibility that employees working in the service area belong to a user group, who, while the vehicle is in the service status, by means of their permanent Access data to open the vehicle and as far as can operate as it for the necessary work to be carried out. Furthermore it is possible to use a Communication device from the central system, the access information for a to get a specific vehicle. The central system sends the service data via a communication channel to the vehicle. The service data contains similar Information such as customer data in the case of a rental. So belong Data for identifying the service employee, the time window for the service work and also a transaction number. After completion of the service work reports the employee the end of work on the vehicle. This locks and reports the changed state to the central system. The employee reports the Completion of the service work to the central system, so this leads to the information the vehicle continues, which then locks and the now changed status in turn reports to the central system.

In a further preferred embodiment, the vehicle is in the case of disabled use. For this purpose, the central system is a Notice of unlawful use sent and when the vehicle with equipped with a location system, the coordinates of the location. At standstill of the vehicle or very slow driving can then interrupt the ignition and so the vehicle will be put out of service.

Figur 1:

Blockschaltbild der Vorgänge bei einem Mietvorgang

Figur 2:

Kommunikationskanäle bei einem schlüssellosen Mietverhältnis

Figur 3:

Datenversand an den Kunden

In the following drawings and the associated descriptions, the invention will be described in more detail with reference to embodiments.
It shows:

FIG. 1:

Block diagram of the processes during a rental process

FIG. 2:

Communication channels for a keyless lease

FIG. 3:

Data transmission to the customer

FIG. 1 shows the flowchart of a rental process on the basis of a block diagram. The customer 28 makes a reservation request 6 to the rental company. This can be done via any communication channel 1. Authorized operator agencies are possible here, such as travel agencies, Internet, fax, telephone, SMS and other forms of communication. If the customer is not yet registered for this form of tenancy, the customer request will be processed according to the previous procedure or, if necessary, the necessary measures taken a keyless lease 9. If a keyless lease can be offered, the necessary data will be included. 10. The data required by the customer 28 include a customer number, the rental period, the desired place of rental, the place of return, the desired vehicle type and a system address to which the reservation confirmation should be sent. From the group of vehicles 27 in the "reservable" state, a vehicle 27 is assigned to the reservation 11. "Reservable" may be vehicles 27 which would be immediately available for hire, but also vehicles 27 which are still available for the date requested by the customer 28 are. After assigning a vehicle 27 to the leasing process, the central system 26 sends to the system address communicated by the customer 28 a message containing the information about the system address of the vehicle 27, via which a communication channel 2, 23 can be set up for receiving device of the vehicle 27, the operation number. The central system 26 sends encrypted to the system address of the vehicle 27, the operation number, the open period and the PIN or other data necessary for identification 13, if the customer identification of the processing device of the vehicle 27 is to be performed. A short time before the rental start desired by the customer 28, the vehicle 27 switches to the state "ready for rental" 14. The time can be between 1 minute and 180 minutes. Other times are also possible. The change of state is confirmed to the central system 26. Based on the data previously received from the central system 26, the customer 28 finds the reserved vehicle 27 in the specified parking space. The customer 28 builds using the system address (eg email address, phone number, etc.) to the receiving device of the vehicle 27 on a communication channel 4. He has received the identifier of the system address either with the location data of the vehicle 27 from the central system 26 or it is read from the outside in the vehicle 27. Other ways of transmitting the identifier of the system address of the vehicle 27 are conceivable.
Via the telecommunications connection 4 thus constructed to the processing device of the vehicle 27, the customer 28 transmits his access data, eg password (PIN), for example when a mobile radio channel is connected by tone dialing method 16. After successful verification of the validity of the access 17, the vehicle 27 is automatically opened via the central locking and the immobilizer deactivated 19. The tenancy has thus begun 20. The vehicle 27 changes its state to "rented" 21. At the same time is sent by the arranged in the vehicle 27 processing device, a data message to the central system 26 on the entry into force of the lease 22.

FIG. 2 shows the data and information flow over the different ones Communication channels 1,2,3,4,5 in one embodiment of the invention Vehicle management system. The customer 28 takes over a communication channel. 1 Contact the vehicle rental company or one of its agencies. This can via a terminal device having a communication link 1 to a Central system 26 builds (Internet), in the renting office, over a Telecommunication connection or other communication connections 1 done. The request is included in the central system 26 of the vehicle management system stored information compared. He sends his reservation request to the Vehicle lessor. About a customer identification is based on the user profile of Customer 28 verifies that the user profile is a keyless lease Vehicle 27 provides and whether a valid system address exists. The If necessary, the system address will also be checked as it contains the Communication channel 1 to the user 28 represents. The reservation can then be Customer 28 via a communication channel 3 to that specified by the customer 28 System address to be confirmed. As a communication connection 1,3 are also other wireless connections such as Bluetooth, WLAN or other Radio connections possible. Before the rental begins, the customer receives 28, for example via a communication link 3, for example by SMS, data of the location of the vehicle 27 and an identifier, e.g. Phone number over which he uses a Processing device of the vehicle management system via a Telecommunication connection 3 can communicate. This processing device can be arranged in the vehicle 27 itself or to the central device 26th be affiliated. If the identity of the user 28 is from a person in a vehicle 27 arranged processing system, so previously submitted the Central device 26 of the vehicle management system, for example via a Communication channel 2 (e.g., SMS) Reservation data to the vehicle to be rented 27, these are e.g. the reservation period and the corresponding password, For example, a secret number and an operation number. The vehicle 27 is in put a ready for rent condition. The customer identification is then via a Established telecommunication connection 4 from the processing device of Vehicle 27 performed. For this purpose, the transmitted by the user 28 Identification identifier compared with the present identification identifier. Identification identifiers may include, for example, user identification and PIN, biometric Data, credit card number or otherwise. After that it checks if the input during the time period kept open to the user 28, the Transaction number matches and the user can be identified. at According to the data, the vehicle 27 is unlocked by central locking and the ignition circuit enabled. Is the identification via the central device 26 carried out, the central device 26 sends the corresponding commands to Activation of the vehicle 27 to the vehicle 27. The vehicle 27 changes the Condition of rented to rented. Each changed state of the vehicle 27 is the central system 26 via a communication channel 5 transmitted. The customer 28 can now use the vehicle 27 in the usual way. About a in the vehicle 27th possibly existing bus system can store all data during the Rental period recorded and transmitted to the central device 26. at Termination of the lease, the user 28 builds the communication channel 1,4 to the vehicle 27 or central device 26 and can after successful Identify the termination of the lease. The vehicle 27 changes his state to non-rentable and closes itself automatically. The while The data collected from the tenancy is sent to the central facility 26 transmitted.

FIG. 3 shows the data transmission for the feedback of a reserved vehicle 27 shown. If the central system 26 has assigned a reservation to a vehicle 27, thus, the vehicle 27 becomes the data relevant to the reservation and the access 23. The data is made up of, for example, his transaction number, the Identification data and the opening period together in which the access to the Vehicle 27 should take place. From the vehicle 27, the proper receipt of the Data of the central device 26 confirms 24 and possibly the state change in the "ready to rent" status. The central system 26 then sends the for the Customers 28 relevant data the communication device 25 of the customer 28. The Data includes the location, the license plate, the type of vehicle and the type of vehicle Customer identification system address to be selected. The shipping of Reservation confirmation can also be made via the communication device of the Vehicle 27 done.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

Communication channel from the customer to the central system

2

Communication channel from the central system to the vehicle

3

Communication channel from the central system to the customer

4

Communication channel from the customer to the vehicle

5

Communication channel from the vehicle to the central system

6

reservation request

7

Verification of customer data

8th

Query of the customer type

9

Standard procedure or customer registration for keyless rental

10

Reservation data recording

11

vehicle management

12

confirmation

13

Data transmission to the vehicle

14

Vehicle status change "ready for rental"

15

Report the status "ready for rent" to the central system

16

identity check

17

Identity confirmed?

18

Checking the vehicle lock

19

Fahrzeugentriegelung

20

Start tenancy

21

Vehicle status change "rented"

22

Notification of the status "rented" to the central system

23

Communication channel from the central system to the vehicle

24

Communication channel from the vehicle to the central facility

25

Communication channel from the central system to the customer

26

Central system

27

vehicle

28

user

Claims (65)

Method for managing vehicles (27) using a vehicle management system composed of one or more parts,
wherein at least a part of the vehicle management system has at least one storage device,
wherein at least a part of the vehicle management system has at least one communication device,
wherein at least a part of the vehicle management system has at least one control device,
wherein at least a part of the vehicle management system is arranged in a vehicle (27),
wherein data and / or commands are transferred via at least one established communication channel (1, 2, 3, 5, 5, 23, 24, 25), characterized in that
a communication channel (5, 24) is set up between a vehicle (27) and a central system (26) and a communication channel (1,4) is set up by at least part of a vehicle management system by a communication means of the user (28). A method according to claim 1, characterized in that
a receiving device of the vehicle (27) receives data via one of the communication channels (4, 23). A method according to claim 2, characterized in that
a control device in the vehicle (27) switches different states as a function of the received data, wherein the states are different operating states. A method according to claim 3, characterized in that
the vehicle (27) reports this state to the central system (26) after changing to another state. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that
the central system (26) manages the reservations received via any communication channels (1), the central system (26) allocating the reservations to specific vehicles (27) and the central system (26) communicating with the reservation vehicle (27) via the communication channel (2 ) for the reservation relevant data, wherein the relevant for the reservation data include a task number and / or time information and / or user identification information. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that
the user (28) may select one or more communication means from a selection of communication means for the communication following the reservation with the vehicle management system. A method according to claim 6, characterized in that
the communication means owned by the user (28) and / or means of communication owned by the vehicle manager may comprise Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that
the user (28) before the rental date, data are sent to a previously selected by the user (28) communication means. A method according to claim 8, characterized in that
the data includes location and / or contact data and / or operation number and / or vehicle data and / or vehicle registration numbers and / or the reservation period. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that
a communication channel (1,4) to a part of the vehicle management system is set up by the communication means previously selected by the user (28) or another communication means. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that
the communication channel (1,4) established by the communication means of the user (28) establishes a wireless connection, wherein the wireless connection may be a radio connection, a mobile telecommunication connection, a Bluetooth or WLAN connection or another connection. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that
data for identifying the user (28) are sent via the communication channel (1,4) established by the communication means of the user (28), wherein the data for identifying user identification and / or PIN and / or biometric data and / or a signature card and / or May contain signature data. A method according to claim 12, characterized in that
the identification of the user (28) in the central system (26) takes place and then data relating to the identification are transmitted to the vehicle (27) or the identification of the user (28) takes place in a processing device in the vehicle (27). Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that
upon identification and authorization of the user (28), the vehicle (27) is switched to a ready-for-use state and is open and usable by the user (28). Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that
the rental end is defined by the rental period and / or by data sent by the user (28) over a communication channel (1,4). Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that
after the lease has ended, data is sent from the vehicle (27) to the central system (26) and / or the vehicle (27) is switched to a non-ready state. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that
the method for renting and / or renting vehicles (27) is used. Central system (26), which is part of a vehicle management system,
at least one receiving device, at least one memory device and at least one transmitting device,
wherein between the central device (26) and a processing device in a vehicle (27) a communication channel (2,5,23,24) is buildable and / or constructed,
wherein the processing device in a vehicle (27) has at least one receiving device and at least one control device, characterized in that
between a communication means of a user (28) and the central system (26) at least one communication channel (1,25) is buildable and / or is constructed,
and via this communication channel (1,25) data is exchangeable and or exchanged. Central system (26) according to claim 18, characterized in that
Depending on the data sent by the central system (26), the control device of the processing device of the vehicle (27) is switchable to different states and / or connected. Central system (26) according to claim 19, characterized in that
the states in which the vehicle (27) can be switched are different operating states. Central system (26) according to claim 20, characterized in that
after changing to another state, this state can be sent to the central system (26) and / or sent. Central system (26) according to one or more of claims 18 to 21, characterized in that
in the central system (26) via any communication channels (1) incoming reservations are manageable and / or managed. Central system (26) according to one or more of claims 18 to 22, characterized in that
in the central system (26) Reservations certain vehicles (27) are assigned and / or are assigned, which by the central system (26) to a reservation associated vehicle (27) for the reservation relevant data are transmitted and / or transmitted, wherein for the reservation relevant and transmitted data include a transaction number and / or time information about the duration of the lease and / or user identification information. Central system (26) according to one or more of claims 18 to 23, characterized in that
for the user (28) for the communication following the reservation with the vehicle management system, one or more communication means are selectable from a selection of communication means. Central system (26) according to claim 24, characterized in that
the communication means owned by the user (28) and / or means of communication owned by the vehicle manager may comprise Central system (26) according to one or more of claims 18 to 25, characterized in that
to the previously selected by the user (28) communication means before Mietbeginn data are sendable and / or sent. Central system (26) according to claim 26, characterized in that
the data includes location and / or contact data and / or operation number and / or vehicle data and / or vehicle registration numbers and / or the reservation period Central system (26) according to one or more of claims 18 to 27, characterized in that
a communication channel (1,4) to the receiving part of the vehicle (27) and / or to the receiving part of the central system (26) can be set up and / or constructed by the communication means previously selected by the user (28) or another communication means. Central system (26) according to one or more of claims 18 to 28, characterized in that
data for identifying the user (28) are sent via the communication channel (1,4) set up by the user (28), the data for identification containing information on user identification and / or PIN and / or biometric data and / or a signature card. Central system (26) according to claim 29, characterized in that
the identification takes place via the central system (26) and then data relating to the identification to the vehicle (27) can be sent and / or sent. Central system (26) according to one or more of claims 18 to 30, characterized in that
after identification and authorization of the user (28), the vehicle (27) is switchable to a ready-for-rent state and / or is switched and then allowed to open and use by the user (28). Central system (26) according to one or more of claims 18 to 31, characterized in that
the rental end is defined by the rental period and / or by data sent by the user (28) over a communication channel (1,4). Central system (26) according to one or more of claims 18 to 32, characterized in that
after the lease has ended, data is sent from the vehicle (27) to the central system (26) and / or the vehicle (27) is switched to a non-ready state. Central system (26) according to one or more of claims 18 to 33, characterized in that
the central system (26) is used for renting and / or renting vehicles (27). Processing device in a vehicle (27), which is part of a vehicle management system and has at least one receiving device and at least one control device, wherein between the processing device in a vehicle (27) and a central device (26) a communication channel (2,5,23,24) is buildable and / or constructed, and
wherein the central system (26) has at least one receiving device, at least one memory device and at least one transmitting device, characterized in that
to the processing device in a vehicle (27) a communication channel (2,4,23) is buildable and / or is constructed, and data is exchangeable and exchanged via this communication channel. Processing device in a vehicle (27) according to claim 35, characterized in that
depending on the exchanged data, the control device of the processing device of the vehicle (27) can be switched to different states and / or switched. Processing device in a vehicle (27) according to claim 36, characterized in that
the states in which the vehicle (27) can be switched are different operating states. Processing device in a vehicle (27) according to claim 37, characterized in that
after changing to another state, this state can be sent to the central system (26) and / or sent. Processing device in a vehicle (27) according to one or more of claims 35 to 38, characterized in that
in the central system (26) reservations can be assigned to specific vehicles (27) and / or assigned, whereby data relevant to the reservation can be transmitted to the processing device and / or transmitted by the central system (26) to the reservation-associated vehicle (27), wherein the data relevant to the reservation and transmitted includes a transaction number and / or time information and / or user identification information. Processing device in a vehicle (27) according to one or more of claims 35 to 39, characterized in that
for the user (28) for the communication following the reservation with the vehicle management system, one or more communication means are selectable from a selection of communication means. Processing device in a vehicle (27) according to claim 40, characterized in that
the communication means owned by the user (28) and / or means of communication owned by the vehicle manager may comprise Processing device in a vehicle (27) according to one or more of claims 35 to 41, characterized in that
from the previously selected by the user (28) communication means or other communication means, a communication channel (1,4) to the receiving part of the vehicle (27) and / or to the receiving part of the central system (26) is buildable and / or constructed. Processing device in a vehicle (27) according to one or more of claims 35 to 41, characterized in that
data for identification of the user (28) are sent via the communication channel (1,4) established by the user (28), the data for identification containing user identification and / or PIN and / or biometric data and / or a signature card. Processing device in a vehicle (27) according to claim 42, characterized in that
the identification of the user (28) takes place via the central system (26) and then data relating to the identification can be sent to the processing device of the vehicle (27) and / or sent. Processing device in a vehicle (27) according to one or more of claims 35 to 44, characterized in that
after identification and authorization of the user (28), the vehicle (27) is switchable to a ready-for-rent state and / or is switched and then allowed to open and use by the user (28). Processing device in a vehicle (27) according to one or more of claims 35 to 45, characterized in that
the rental end is defined by the rental period and / or by data sent by the user (28) over a communication channel (1,4). Processing device according to one or more of claims 35 to 46, characterized in that
after the lease has ended, data is sent from the processing device of the vehicle (27) to the central system (26) and / or the vehicle (27) is switched to a non-ready-to-run state. Processing device according to one or more of claims 35 to 47, characterized in that
the processing device is used for renting and / or renting vehicles (27). Computer program product that is directly loadable and / or loaded into an internal memory of the central device (26) and comprises program steps with which at least one receiving device and at least one transmitting device can be controlled and / or are activated,
wherein with the aid of the transmitting and receiving device at least one communication channel (1,2,3,5,23,24,25) is buildable and / or is constructed when the program product in the central system (26) runs, characterized in that
vehicle reservations can be managed and / or managed by means of a communication channel (1). A communication channel (2,23) can be set up and / or constructed for the vehicle (27) assigned to the reservation in that the reservation-associated vehicle (27) is and / or is capable of sending data with information about the reservation, a communication channel (3, 25) can be set up and / or constructed for a communication means of the user (28) and the user (28 ) Information about the reservation associated vehicle (27) are transmissible and / or transmitted. Computer program product according to claim 49, characterized in that
the identity of the user (28) is verifiable and / or verified. Computer program product according to claim 50, characterized in that
the identity of the user (28) based on an identification number and / or credit card number and / or identification of a signature card and / or user name in combination with a PIN and / or biometric data is verifiable and / or checked. Computer program product according to one or more of claims 49 to 51, characterized in that
after the identification data over a communication channel (2,23) to the processing device of the vehicle (27) are transmitted and / or transmitted, which change the state of the vehicle (27) and / or the processing device of the vehicle (27) transmit the information to change the state of the vehicle (27). Computer program product according to one or more of claims 49 to 52, characterized in that
the data necessary for checking the user identification can be transmitted to the vehicle (27) and / or transmitted. Computer program product according to one or more of claims 49 to 53, characterized in that
for the user (28) for the communication following the reservation with the vehicle management system one or more communication means are selectable from a selection of communication means. Computer program product according to claim 54, characterized in that
may include the selection of communication means owned by the user (28) communication means and / or located in the possession of the vehicle manager communication means. Computer program product according to one or more of claims 49 to 55, characterized in that
Data can be transmitted and / or transmitted via a communication channel (3, 25) to the communication means or another communication means previously selected by the user (28), the data containing information about the location of the vehicle (27) and / or reservation and / or or the operation number and / or the rental period and / or the period of time in which access to the vehicle (27) is possible, and / or the license plate and / or the vehicle type and / or other information. Computer program product according to one or more of claims 49 to 55, characterized in that
the computer program product is used for renting and / or renting vehicles (27). Computer program product which is loadable and / or loaded directly into an internal memory of a processing device arranged in a vehicle (27) and comprises program steps with which at least one receiving device and / or at least one transmitting device and / or at least one control device can be controlled and / / or are driven, wherein with the aid of the transmitting and receiving device at least one communication channel (2,5,23,24) is buildable and / or is constructed when the program product is running in the processing device, characterized in that
Information about vehicle reservations can be received and / or received and the state of the vehicle (27) is changeable and / or changed. Computer program product according to claim 58, characterized in that
for the user (28) for the communication following the reservation with the vehicle management system one or more communication means are selectable from a selection of communication means. Computer program product according to claim 59, characterized in that the selection of communication means owned by the user (28) may comprise communication means and / or means of communication located in the possession of the vehicle manager. Computer program product according to one or more of claims 58 to 60, characterized in that
a user identification is feasible and / or carried out, wherein the user identification is feasible and / or carried out on the basis of an identification number and / or credit card number and / or identification of a signature card and / or user name in combination with a PIN and / or biometric data. Computer program product according to one or more of claims 58 to 61, characterized in that
via a communication channel (5,25), the state of the vehicle (27) is reported to the central device (26) after a change in the state. Computer program product according to one or more of claims 58 to 62, characterized in that
a condition allowing or preventing access by the user (28) to the vehicle (27). Computer program product according to one or more of claims 58 to 63, characterized in that
after completion of the use, a communication channel (1,5,24) can be set up and / or constructed, via which information about the tenancy relationship can be transmitted to the central device (26) and / or transmitted, wherein the information can include all data that can be detected and / or detected via a bus system. Computer program product according to one or more of claims 58 to 64, characterized in that
the computer program product is used for renting and / or renting vehicles (27).

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