WO1992010807A1 - Procede et appareil pour appreciations et estimations autonomes - Google Patents

Procede et appareil pour appreciations et estimations autonomes Download PDF

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Publication number
WO1992010807A1
WO1992010807A1 PCT/US1991/008774 US9108774W WO9210807A1 WO 1992010807 A1 WO1992010807 A1 WO 1992010807A1 US 9108774 W US9108774 W US 9108774W WO 9210807 A1 WO9210807 A1 WO 9210807A1
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WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
user
information
parts
data
estimate
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/US1991/008774
Other languages
English (en)
Inventor
William E. Reed
George J. Farber
Michael Z. Lessin
Christopher P. Barnhill
Teresa E. Phillips
James W. Thayer
Mark A. Welte
Seyed Nasser Shariatpanahy
Gilberto Garcia
James R. Bayless
Donald E. Wageck
Douglas L. Cronkright
Francis M. Waters
Scott D. Weston
Stanley J. Griffin
John R. Rix, Jr.
Robert W. Albo
Original Assignee
Automatic Data Processing, Inc.
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Automatic Data Processing, Inc. filed Critical Automatic Data Processing, Inc.
Publication of WO1992010807A1 publication Critical patent/WO1992010807A1/fr

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Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q40/00—Finance; Insurance; Tax strategies; Processing of corporate or income taxes
    • G06Q40/08—Insurance

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an estimating system and more particularly to a stand alone insurance estimating system, such as one used for automotive crash damage estimating, which can be used by automobile insurance appraisers and by repair facilities to obtain information about parts, labor, and repair operations for automobile repairs.
  • Computerized insurance estimating techniques are known.
  • automobile insurance estimating capabilities that are computerized and that rely on a centralized database that is accessible by way of a communication medium such as a telephone line.
  • a computerized insurance estimating scheme provides access to large amounts of parts information, such as parts 1 prices, availability of economy or OEM parts, labor estimates and parts replacement operations.
  • the use of this known insurance estimation system is limited to those environments which provide access to the necessary transmission or communication medium.
  • the act of establishing a communications link itself is a limitation on the process in view of the uncertainty of accessibility of the centralized database.
  • the present invention provides the advantages of both the centralized computerized insurance estimation system and the stand alone appraisal units.
  • the present invention provides a wealth of information to users, such as an insurance appraiser or a repairer. This includes information about parts and labor like the centralized database system, while providing the flexibility of a stand alone appraisal unit that does not require access to such a database via a transmission medium and transmission protocols.
  • the present invention provides a stand alone estimator system that uses a high density storage medium to store all of the information necessary to produce accurate and exact estimates. Such information includes parts and labor information about various vehicles including specific parts lists based on make/model/year/engine size/and option package.
  • the stand alone estimating system includes a stand alone computer system which has supporting software for providing a menu driven estimate preparation process.
  • This menu driven estimate preparation process is user friendly. It uses interface technology referred to as graphic user interface (GUI) which uses pull down menus.
  • GUI graphic user interface
  • the present invention could also be adapted to be used with such input selection devices as a mouse and can operate with a "point and click" filing or selection scheme. It provides the user with the capability of accessing information about the available OEM part prices as well as after market and salvage parts, information about the overlap and elimination of labor with respect to the installation of replacement parts, and the opportunity to override part prices and labor estimations.
  • the present invention can also provide access to a radio network to obtain the latest information about OEM and alternate parts such as after market parts (including salvage parts) , including prices, availability, and locations for such parts.
  • the radio network provides the user with transparent communication to the host so that the user has access to host data with a minimum of communication complications.
  • the present invention further provides the user with the capability of viewing information about "included operations" which define the specific labor operations associated with a part of interest.
  • the present invention also provides the capability of automatic calculation of overall labor time taking into account overlapping installation procedures which need not be repeated based on the "included operations" for all of the parts in a particular estimate.
  • the present invention also provides flexibility in that with simple program modifications, the stand alone appraisal/estimating system can be used in a first version as a custom designed device for insurance estimators and in a second version as a custom designed device for use by a repair facility such as a "body shop".
  • the menus provided in the embodiments of the present invention provide various features to assist the end user in gathering, assembling and making use of the parts information.
  • the system menu allows the user to override estimation entries and provides an automatic override function, where if the user enters a certain part code, the system prompts the user to enter override information.
  • the system also designates certain information or data fields as mandatory fields, whose corresponding information must be entered by the user to create an estimate. These fields correspond to the base line data which is required by the system to generate an estimate.
  • the user may also designate other fields as "mandatory" thereby customizing the data entry requirements.
  • the system provides a selection list for data for individual ones of the fields to provide the user with the capability of selecting information for entry into these fields. The contents of a selection list for a particular field are affected by decisions and data entered in other fields in the estimation process.
  • the present invention also provides automatic estimate assembly from information entered into the system and provides the capability of printing out that estimate on site or reviewing that estimate on a computer terminal. Furthermore, even prior to printing an actual estimate, the system provides a cumulative or running total of parts and costs which is easily viewed by the user during the entry of damage information.
  • the present invention also provides a user with the capability of gathering administrative data associated with an estimate and transmitting that administrative data to a main frame data base via a communication medium. Also, the system provides a user with the capability of loading administrative data or estimate data from a remote location into the stand alone system (down loading) using a transmission medium to communicate between locations. Furthermore, the communications capabilities will permit the user to communicate with other database systems relating to repair management, claim handling, parts accounting and purchase order management. It will also allow transmission of the management report and billing information to the database (up loading) . The present invention also provides a unique method for preparing the high density storage medium to store all of the necessary parts information of interest.
  • the information is extracted from a centralized database, is reorganized and formatted with security information and arranged for production of a master memory, such as a CD ROM.
  • a master memory such as a CD ROM.
  • the master CD ROM is used as part of a stamping process to produce the required number of copies of the CD ROM for the respective users.
  • the "body shop version" of the embodiment of the present invention also provides high integration with body shop data management files so that estimation information entered into the stand alone system can be integrated with other management file information to produce reports in formats designated by the body shops' other processing devices.
  • the present invention also provides data for decision support.
  • the present invention in particular, provides a storage medium storing such decision determinative information as approximate total loss value for an automobile. If cost of repair is approaching total loss magnitude, the system generates a warning to the user. Under those circumstances, the user can then access a "total loss valuation" database via a communications medium. That database will have more specific information about total loss value based on such additional factors as the required resale values etc.
  • the embodiment of the present invention could also provide vehicle identification number checking capabilities. Such capabilities would enable an estimator to identify whether a vehicle itself, and/or salvage parts ordered in a repair process, have previously been identified as stolen or the subject of multiple insurance claims. This capability is provided by providing the user with a communications mechanism to obtain on-line access to an extensive data base providing information about vehicles classified by their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) .
  • VIN Vehicle Identification Number
  • the present invention in one embodiment, is designed to be used with worksheets that provide illustrations of automobile portions and parts. If a user is familiar with the automobile and works without a worksheet, they will still have access to a list of parts for the automobile produced by the system upon access to the high density storage medium. The list is tailored in response to the identification of the make/model/year/engine and options. The system, upon request from the user, will list all of the parts for the identified automobile.
  • the system could provide a graphics representation on the user's display of the parts, thereby removing the need for the worksheet.
  • the present invention also provides a unique billing-for-use system wherein the user is allotted a number of "transactions" and can purchase additional transactions from the data supplier.
  • a transaction counter keeps track of the number of transactions available to the user. If the user desires additional transactions, the system provides a menu option for that purpose. Selection of that option and the number of desired transactions produces a billing identification number to be provided to the data supplier. That identification is used in a cross checking operation by the supplier who then supplies an appropriate transaction authorization code to the user to be entered into the system.
  • Fig. 1 is a block diagram representation of an embodiment of the present invention.
  • Figs. 2 to 16 illustrate menu options for the operation of an embodiment of the present invention to be used for insurance appraisal purposes.
  • Figs. 17 to 23 illustrate the menu selection options for an embodiment of the present invention to be used by a repair facility which are different from the menu options provided for the insurance appraisal embodiment.
  • Fig. 24 illustrates the steps of a process for creating a high density memory with necessary parts information to be used in the embodiments of the present invention.
  • Fig. 25 illustrates a data format for the high density memory.
  • Fig. 26 is a block diagram representation of an embodiment of the present invention in cooperation with a network for detecting information about after market parts.
  • Fig. 27 illustrates process steps associated with a process for determining and selecting after market parts information from the network of Fig. 26.
  • Fig. 28 illustrates an insurance transaction chain in which the system of the present invention can be used.
  • Fig. 28 illustrates, in flow diagram format, a transaction chain for processing an insurance transaction.
  • Blocks 1 to 4 relate to the acquisition of an insurance policy with respect to an automobile in question. This involves the rating of the car and the driver for risk and the determination of a premium 1. It also involves a comparative pricing versus risk and a risk evaluation, elements 2 and 3 and can involve independent inspections, 4.
  • This processing operation may include mailing of the insurance declaration to the insured, 5, invoicing and billing with respect to the insurance policy, 6, notification to the lender of the insurance coverage and indication with respect to the lender's interests 7 and 8.
  • Blocks 9 to 12 relate to the occurrence of an accident and the provision of an accident report and scheduling for insurance appraisal purposes.
  • a loss report can be taken and policy coverage or policy conditions can be confirmed 9, and 10, with access to a host database that stores information about policies and policy holders.
  • a fraud check can be conducted initially by comparing the vehicle identification number to vehicle identification numbers associated with vehicles otherwise stolen or reported damaged, 11. An appraisal can then be scheduled and assigned to an individual appraiser, 12.
  • Blocks 9 to 12 can be implemented using a host database.
  • the stand alone estimating system of the present invention can interact in all four areas.
  • the stand alone system can provide an on-site report of loss, can communicate with the host database with respect to policy coverage and conditions and can also interface with a vehicle identification number database to perform an initial fraud check.
  • the stand alone device can interface with the host database to receive appraisal schedule information by down loading administrative information from that database.
  • Blocks 13 to 16 are related to appraisal and estimating processes.
  • the appraiser must be managed both time-wise and job-wise 13 in connection with the assignment and scheduling of 12.
  • An appraisal can be performed either at a drive-in appraisal station 14 or at a body shop 15 using the stand alone device.
  • a repair estimate can then be generated using the stand alone system 16.
  • Further appraisal and estimating information is related to the evaluation of the total loss for the automobile 17 and the possibility of performing estimates for mechanical repairs unrelated to the occurrence of a collision or damage to the automobile 18.
  • the stand alone device can play a role in interacting with a valuation database or in performing a mechanical estimate based on the parts and labor information which are available to the system.
  • the bodily injury adjusting process 19 is performed in accordance with completion of the appraisal and estimating process.
  • Repair cost management involves blocks 20 to 26 including the selection of parts in determining their location and parts such as after market parts, salvage parts and OEM parts (20 to 22) .
  • Repair cost management can also include property parts pricing 26 which is unrelated to the automobile damage and repair operation.
  • Blocks 27 to 30 relate to repair shop management regarding the selection of a repair shop 27, the scheduling of work at the shop 28, the access to repair bulletins and dealer or manufacturer recall information 29 and general body shop management.
  • the repair information is particularly significant in this age of complex parts replacement operations.
  • a database can be provided with parts replacement bulletins describing operations necessary for performing parts replacement and those data bases might be accessed by way of a communications path to assist the repairer in performing the repair operation.
  • Blocks 31 to 37 relate to the movement of money in connection with the processing of the claim. This includes providing a repair check 31, a parts check 32, a property parts check 33, and a salvage check 35. Also, further documents such as motor vehicle documents and handling fees can be processed 34, subrogation settlements 36 and billing and reconciliations for independent appraisers 37 can also be maintained.
  • Fig. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a basic configuration of an embodiment of the present invention.
  • the stand alone estimating system 10 includes a CPU 11, a printer 12 for printing reports and estimates, a display 13, and a compact disk read only memory and reader (CD ROM) 14.
  • the CD ROM stores information for various vehicle types as described below in connection with Fig. 25.
  • That information may include, for example, parts identifiers, part prices, labor operations associated with installation of a part, expected labor time associated with the part and other vehicle information.
  • the CPU processor can be a Texas Instruments notebook computer which uses an Intel 80286 microprocessor. Other computer devices might also be used such as IBM compatible personal computers.
  • the monitor can be a VG monitor and the CD ROM can be read using a standard CD ROM drive.
  • the printer can be a dot matrix printer that can be used to print draft and final versions of estimates. If a high resolution printer such as an ink jet printer is used, parts worksheets can also be printed.
  • the CPU can have SCSI port capabilities and is connectable to a modem, such as a Motorola modem that provides access to the Ardis radio network.
  • An RJ11 phone connection or standard telecommunications services can also be included to provide the system with communication capabilities.
  • the entire system can be made portable and can be included in a suitcase-like carrier for easy transport by a user such as an insurance appraiser.
  • Fig. 24 sets forth the steps in a process for preparation of the CD ROM to be used in the system of
  • the first step 2401 requires extracting vehicle information from a full vehicle file on a host computer system to pre aster an AXV (Audatex Vehicle File - the parts information stored on the CD ROM and used with the stand alone estimating system) . Some of the fields extracted are removed for space compression and decoding.
  • the premastering further includes the steps of creating supporting text files and the creation of indices relating to the extracted vehicle information. The extraction is done via a program that extracts information from the following record types: type 1 administrative 2402; type 2 option 2403; type 3 parts, 2404; type 5 labor, 2405; PTL, parts library, 2406; UOD Universal Option Description, 2407; and NEW PAINT DATABASE, 2408. Records are then created from the extracted information in step 2410.
  • Such records include an administrative record ADMIN 2411, a PARTS record 2412, and a LABOR record 2413. Furthermore, files are created and the data is extracted into one file for each record type, step 2414. All vehicles' for a given type are placed in one file. The data is then 5 compressed, by removing data from the records, and is then encoded in step 2415. For example, the description may be removed from the parts records and stored in one of two files. Furthermore, the operation description in the labor record may be translated and stored as a one 10 byte value. Also, the entire contents of the parts number field may be converted to spaces in the parts record given certain operation codes.
  • the extracted AXV file, a created security record, and a Page - 9.TXT file are sent to a CD ROM 1.5 premastering vendor for organization into a format for the CD ROM, step 2416.
  • the data from all of the record type files is merged into one file.
  • For each vehicle its ADMIN, PARTS and LABOR records are merged into one contiguous data stream.
  • the Vehicle ID is removed from 0 each record.
  • a master index is created which points to the first byte of each vehicle data stream.
  • the guide number is removed from the parts records, which are left in guide number sequence. Pointers are created for each of the possible 1,000 guide numbers.
  • the 5 system is not limited to 1,000 guide numbers, but instead can be defined to be some other optimum number.
  • Each pointer stores the offset from the first byte of the first parts record for that relative guide number.
  • the logical grouping for the CD ROM AXV is shown 0 in Fig. 25.
  • a security record is provided. That record has a vehicle data extract date with the number of vehicles and a Huffman heap for decoding. The vehicle data extract date is the date the data were extracted from the host, in year-month-day format. This becomes 5 the CD ROM version number.
  • the Huffman heap is defined as the linear ordering of a binary tree that places every node in the tree before all its descendants and every left child node immediately before its right sibling. Thus, a heap is created by unpacking a tree in "level order".
  • the version of the CD ROM is also on a control record installed on the user's hard drive. The two version numbers are compared when the CD ROM is first accessed by the estimator software. The number of vehicles is used in an algorithm that calculates the length of the master headers. This allows the program to know where the vehicle data begins.
  • the next item in the logical grouping of Fig. 25 is the master vehicle index.
  • This index includes one record with vehicle identifications in alphabetical order and their relative offsets in the file.
  • This index also referred to as the master header index, is a list of all vehicles extracted from the host and each vehicle's corresponding byte offset in the vehicle file on the CD ROM.
  • the master headers are loaded into memory when the program is loaded. This index is used by the program to locate and read vehicle data. Vehicle data are not keyed as in a typical database design. The data is accessed in blocks using offsets. This allows a one-time direct read of data rather than requiring two physical reads, one for the index and another for the data.
  • the first such vehicle data category for vehicle is the parts data displacement address (PPDA) which is a two byte field providing the byte position of the beginning of a vehicle's parts data relative to the beginning of that vehicle's data.
  • PPDA parts data displacement address
  • the number of style/models of each vehicle varies.
  • the amount of administrative data which proceeds the parts data is a logical variable length record. Therefore, the PDDA is provided to identify the starting position of the parts data.
  • the second information regarding vehicle 1 is the number of labor records.
  • the set of all labor records specific to a vehicle is a labor file.
  • Each labor file is encrypted.
  • the number of logical labor records in a vehicle's labor file is stored in a two byte field within each vehicle's data. This number is multiplied by the length of a labor record to determine the length of the decompressed labor file. This is used to allocate the proper amount of dynamic storage for each vehicle.
  • the next item for vehicle 1 in the logical grouping of Fig. 25 is the vehicle parts index.
  • Occurrence number 1001 holds the number of parts records.
  • an index is created that has an occurrence for each possible guide number.
  • the guide number is removed from the parts record and the value in the occurrence is the record number of the first logical parts record for that guide number.
  • the next information regarding vehicle 1 concerns administrative data.
  • the record contains all years, engines, and options valid for each style/model.
  • the two byte options are also on the ADMIN record, and each has a corresponding one byte option.
  • the one byte option code is used to match the entry from a worksheet and the corresponding two byte code is used to find the description.
  • the next piece of data regarding vehicle 1 is the parts record for the vehicle.
  • the parts record on the CD ROM are in vehicle ID, guide number, OP code, year, style/model, engine and options sequence. The guide number is removed from the parts record and the parts index is created.
  • each parts record on the CD ROM has a five byte description field that holds either a PAGE_9.TXT table entry number or a left/right indicator.
  • the section/page is used as a key to locate the description in DESC.TXT.
  • the retrieved description is combined with the left/right indicator to rebuild the description.
  • the occurrence number is used as the key to locate the description in the PAGE_9.TXT file.
  • the last information provided about vehicle 1 is labor information in the form of a record.
  • Labor records on the CD ROM are in vehicle ID, overlap code, year, style/model, and options sequence.
  • the operation descriptions are stored as one byte values, ranging from one to six.
  • the display and print programs translate those one byte codes back to the operation descriptions.
  • Each vehicle's labor file is compressed and encrypted using Huffman encoding as described above.
  • the entire labor file is loaded into memory as an estimate process for a specific vehicle is initiated.
  • the PDDA, the number of labor records, the parts index, the admin records, the parts records, and the labor records are provided for all of the vehicles 1 to N of the listed vehicles.
  • .TXT files are created during extraction of AXV data from the host. All of the .TXT files created during that extraction process are down loaded to the stand alone computer with the exception of the Page_9.TXT file. These down loaded files include the DSC.TXT (section/page description with repair sequence indicators) OPTION.TXT (universal options, descriptions) and PAINT.TXT (new paint database ARS variables) . These .TXT files that are down loaded to the stand alone computer are to be used on the hard drive to support the AXV processing. These files are sent to the client on an "install" floppy disk. Meanwhile, the Page_9.TXT file is copied to the hard drive of the stand alone computer from the CD ROM at installation.
  • step 2416 After the premastering of the CD of step 2416 has been completed by the organization of the AXV file, the security record and the Page_9.TXT file, the data is sent to the mastering facility.
  • One master CD is created, step 2417 and then the requested number of additional copies can be stamped step 2418.
  • the Page_9.TXT file includes the page 9 descriptions that are removed from the parts record.
  • Page 9 parts records have a page number beginning with "9" and any section number.
  • the page 9 descriptions are free form and therefore have no standardized entry in the section/page table.
  • the occurrence in which the page 9 description is placed in the table represents the sequence it was found at extract time, relative to the other page 9 descriptions.
  • the description's relative occurrence is placed in the parts record's description field.
  • the Page_9.TXT file is copied from the CD ROM onto the hard drive during installation.
  • CONTROL file contains information that controls the processing.
  • the CONTROL record carries the date that the corresponding CD ROM information was extracted. This date is used to control a user's access to the CD ROM and the processing of data.
  • the system also includes customers files in which information such as calculation values, headers and disclaimers can be prestored for the convenience of the user.
  • the system also includes a file storing calculation values that include wage rate values, deductibles, etc.
  • the data may be created or changed by the user.
  • the user is also provided with the capability of storing a number of lines of free form header information and free form disclaimer information as well as comments.
  • the data may be created or changed in response to the request from the customer and the data is then sent to the client in the installation package.
  • Further data are the vehicle related data from the CD ROM AXV and the supporting .TXT files? the CD ROM data which consists of the AXV and the Page_9.TXT information; and the supporting .TXT files described above.
  • the stand alone device of the present invention processes prestore and DDI (Diablo Data Interface - an internal record format for estimate data stored on the stand alone estimating systems) transactions.
  • the prestore transactions are transactions that allow for the collection of administrative information for a claim and that are performed in anticipating of an estimation operation. They come from standard data interface (SDI - an internal record format used in ADP estimate systems) transfers of data, or from prestores generated within the system. These prestores are saved as .PRE files.
  • SDI standard data interface
  • the DDI transactions are created by ESTIMATE transactions and are retrieved by correction, supplement, and reprint transactions.
  • DDI transaction processing is implemented in the stand alone device. The transaction data is thus structured for the best storage and processing within the device. For that reason, the structure internal to the device does not necessarily conform to SDI.
  • SDI data that is to be transferred to the system may go through a translation program. Such a program may be part of an interface supporting the stand alone device.
  • the system will provide data in SDI document format to offer data management systems to be used in an integrated fashion with the stand alone device, such as a body shop management system.
  • Transaction data are stored via estimate sets.
  • An estimate set is a collection of all of the transactions (estimates, corrections, supplements) for a given claim.
  • the customer and vehicle ADMIN information occurs once within the estimate set.
  • the set of damage entries occurs for each transaction.
  • the set of calculation data occurs for each transaction.
  • Each transaction has an "estimate set number" and a "transaction sequence number”. Transactions are stored in DDI format.
  • All of the data for each transaction is stored as one logical record with all of the transactions that have the same estimate set number being stored in the same file.
  • the file name will be the estimate set number.
  • Input data is received into the system from the CD ROM, the .TXT files, the DDI transaction file, the DDI prestore files, control record files, SDI files, and unarchived DDI transactions.
  • Each of these input sources will be treated separately below.
  • the master header information is read into the system when the main menu is invoked. This information is read only once and then stored in memory throughout processing.
  • the security record information is read into the system when the main menu is invoked.
  • the ADMIN information is read into the memory when the vehicle code is entered. It is retained in memory during the processing of a transaction for a specific vehicle. It is released when the final calculations are completed.
  • the number of labor records information is read into memory when the vehicle code is entered. It is retained in memory during labor processing for a specific vehicle. It is released when the final calculations are complete.
  • the parts index information is read into memory when the vehicle is entered. It is retained in memory during parts processing for a specific vehicle. It is released when the final calculations are complete.
  • the labor information is read into the buffer, decompressed, and stored in memory when the damage entry screen is invoked. The entire labor file for the selected vehicle is read only once and stored in memory.
  • the parts information is read by part set.
  • a part set is the collection of all parts for a vehicle with the same guide number.
  • the parts information is read into a 32K buffer and the desired part set is stored in memory.
  • the parts buffer is checked first. This eliminates a physical read to the CD ROM when possible.
  • Vehicle data is processed by a file system. This is defined in the environment variable. The file system is set when the main menu is invoked. The system checks to see if the CD ROM is available. If so, the file system remains the CD. If not, the hard drive is checked and if it is available, the file system is reset.
  • DSC.TXT when a part set with a standard section/page is retrieved from the CD ROM. It is stored in a parts information table.
  • the page 9 parts description information is read from PAGE_9.TXT when a part set with a page "9?" is retrieved from the CD ROM. Such description information is stored in the parts information table.
  • the manual entry table information table is read from the MANUAL.TXT when a damage entry is entered that is not a controlled damage entry. It is read for a match and description.
  • the description is stored in the parts information table.
  • the paint information is read from PAINT.TXT when a first operation code is entered. Information is used for calculations. The results of the calculations are stored in the parts information table.
  • the options information is read from OPTION.TXT when the ADMIN DATA HELP, screen is invoked on the vehicle admin screen.
  • DDI transactions are read when corrections, supplement, or reprint transactions are invoked.
  • a selection menu reads the data and presents information to the user. When a transaction is selected, the last transaction of the estimate set is selected and stored in the memory.
  • DDI prestores are read when Prestore Estimate is invoked.
  • a selection menu reads the data and presents information to the user.
  • Control record information is read when the main menu is invoked.
  • the control record security date is compared with the date from the security record read from the CD ROM.
  • SDI information is presented to a translation program that converts the SDI data and stores it as a DDI transaction.
  • Data is also produced as an output from the system to DDI transactions files, DDI prestore files, control record data, new AXV files on the hard drive, archived DDI transactions and printouts.
  • Estimates, corrections and supplements are written to a DDI transaction file when the transaction is completed and a save operation is requested to save the information.
  • the transaction's damage entry and final calculation are added to the end of the estimate set.
  • the customer ADMIN information remains at the beginning the estimate set.
  • DDI prestores are written when the system prestore is selected and the data entry is completed up to vehicle admin data. DDI prestores are written when ADMIN information is transferred from a floppy disk.
  • a control record information is updated with transaction total information when final calculations are completed.
  • New vehicles are selected from the CD ROM and written to a designated file when the NEWAXV default is selected from one of the submenus.
  • the DDI transactions are written to archive files when the operation ARCHIVE DDI TRANSACTIONS is selected by the user.
  • An estimate printout is created when a print request reply is "yes" and a final calculation is completed.
  • Such security features includes file security features that control the CD ROM, the control record, and headers and disclaimers.
  • the data security features are used in the parts and labor files.
  • One measure of protection of the CD ROM is the nature of the media since it is read only data cannot be removed or changed.
  • An additional control measure is used to prohibit the client from using a CD ROM that is out of date or that they do not have authorization to use. This is done by comparing a security date from the CD ROM security record with a security date on the application's control record. The dates should be the same, they are both the dates the CD ROM data was extracted. If the dates match, processing continues uninterrupted. If, however, the dates do not match, processing is halted and the user is notified that the CD ROM is an invalid version. User services must be contacted.
  • the system also provides a security mechanism to deny access to a transaction counter which monitors the number of transactions executed by the user for billing purposes. Denying access maintains the integrity of the transaction counter and prevents user fraud.
  • the transaction counter will be further described below in connection with the billing function.
  • a data security measure is provided in connection with the CD ROM.
  • Data encryption of the parts and labor data are provided such that parts data has some key fields removed from each record and the labor data is encrypted by Huffman encoded.
  • the control record of the embodiment of the present invention is protected by hiding the file within another file preventing a user from tampering with the contents of the record and from deleting the record.
  • the headers and disclaimers information is entered only by technical support when the installation diskette is created for the user.
  • the headers and disclaimers data entry screen is not available for access for modification by the end user.
  • the end user must request a change in information from technical support.
  • the headers and disclaimers file is compressed to prevent the users from changing information with their own text editor.
  • the parts data is protected by removing specific information from each record. This prevents the user from reading the record and reconstructing the information.
  • the parts data is represented by logical records in one large physical record. Each parts logical record cannot be directly accessed. Instead, each part set (set of parts records for a given vehicle with the same guide number) is referenced by a displacement in the parts index. This prevents the user from being able to dump the contents of the CD ROM and studying each parts record.
  • the labor data is protected by Huffman Encoding.
  • the labor file is read into a buffer and decoded and stored in memory. This prevents the user from reading the record and reconstructing the information.
  • the labor data is also represented by logical records in one large physical record. Each labor logical record cannot be directly accessed. Instead, the entire labor file is read into memory and accessed from memory. This prevents the user from being able to dump the contents of the CD ROM and from being able to study each labor record.
  • the above data description is not an exhaustive list of all of the types of information which can be stored on the CD ROM.
  • the storage medium can also store system operation and installation information, automobile information related to vehicle identification numbers and other types of estimation related information.
  • the present invention in addition to the extensive data accessing capabilities provided in the system, also provides a flexible and easy to use menu driven display which assists the user in creating estimate documents as well as reports and additional information desired by the user.
  • menu displays have been created for two different embodiments of the present invention, an "insurance” version, and a "body shop” version. A description of each of the pertinent menu selection capabilities for these two versions is set forth below in the description of Fig. 2-23. THE INSURANCE VERSION
  • Figs. 2-16 illustrate the menu options for the insurance version of the embodiment of the present invention.
  • Fig. 2 illustrates the main menu options presented to the user upon access of the estimating system. The user can select between six different menus, the FILE menu 201, the SETUP menu 202, the PRINT menu 203, the OPTIONS menu 204, the COMMUNICATIONS menu 205, and the HELP menu 206. Upon choosing any one of these menu options, further options will be provided to the user by way of submenus which will be presented on the user's monitor. The remaining description with regard to the insurance version will describe the selection possibilities and the functions carried out once those selections are made from the available submenus.
  • Fig. 3 illustrates the menu options when the FILE 201 of Fig. 2 is selected from the main menu.
  • the user is provided with six choices which lead to six different sets of operations.
  • the first such choice is the NEW ESTIMATE option 301
  • the second is the OPEN ESTIMATE option 302
  • the third is the CLOSE ESTIMATE option 303
  • the fourth is the ENTER USER ID option 304
  • the fifth is the FILE MANAGEMENT option 305
  • the sixth is the QUIT option 306.
  • For selections 301-305 further sub- submenus are presented upon selection so as to step the operator through the necessary operations for either entering information pertinent to an appraisal operation or to access information pertinent to the appraisal operation.
  • the user activates the selection of the NEW ESTIMATE 301 alternative from this submenu of Fig. 3 and the user is provided with seven categories of types of information which could be used to produce a new estimate.
  • the seven categories are shown as selectable windows in the monitor display of the system.
  • the user Upon accessing any one of the seven windows, the user is presented with a further screen display which shows data fields relating to certain types of information which should be entered by the user. This will be described in more detail as individual ones of the seven information windows are described below in connection with Fig. 4.
  • the first information window is the VEHICLE ID and MANDATORY data window 401.
  • the user Upon activation of this window, the user is provided with a screen or monitor image in which the user is prompted to provide identification information about the manufacturer and make of the automobile in the form of a four digit code 402, the style/model of the automobile 403, engine type 404, model year 405, and option package 406. All of these correspond to fields which appear on the screen.
  • the information about the manufacturer/make 402, the style/model 403, the engine 404, and the year 405 are mandatory data which must be entered to be able to begin the estimation process.
  • the system provides a selection list of possible choices for the user, so that the user does not have to generate the information, but rather can select from previously stored information. Each selection affects the selection list available for a subsequent field.
  • the content of the second list depends on the previous selection of the manufacturer and make of the automobile. Similarly, the contents of an engine selection list is based on the users choice of the manufacturer/make and the style/model. Also, the contents of a year selection list is based on the user's earlier choice for manufacturer/make, style/model and engine. Finally, the user is presented with a selection list for the automobile options that were available for the vehicle defined by selections from the preceding four lists.
  • VIN Vehicle Identification Number
  • the system can automatically verify the VIN against the make/model/engine/year/option information using VIN information accessible from the CD ROM.
  • the second window in the NEW ESTIMATE entry configuration is the DAMAGE ENTRY window.
  • the user is first prompted to enter a guide number identifying a part in question.
  • the user can directly enter a guide number, as identified on the user's paper worksheet, or can choose to use information from either a standard manual or a custom manual which provide alternative lists of parts and corresponding guide numbers.
  • the system provides a standard manual with entries of standard type parts while the system also provides the capability for the user to produce a custom manual and to access entries from that custom manual at this point in the damage data entry process.
  • the user is then prompted to enter a designation of the type of operation 409. For example, if the user has designated the guide number that identifies an automobile battery, then the user will designate the type of operation related to the battery in question. Typically, this would require replacing an older or damaged battery with a new battery. A new replacement is one of the opcode list options available to the user. Other operation options include replacing a part with an economy part or replacing the part with the salvage part. Other options include an inspection option and other operations typically associated with the appraisal and restoration process. Depending on the type of operation selected, the system may request that the user enter some additional information if appropriate. Where a user requests a new part, no additional information is automatically requested by the system.
  • the system automatically prompts the user to enter additional information regarding either price for the part, hours for the service, an adjustment or rate associated with the article or service and displays what is in the database.
  • the system of the present invention uses the information entered in the Vehicle ID and Mandatory Data window to retrieve the "best" or "correct” parts list for the automobile in question. Specifically, based on the information entered regarding make/model/year/engine/ option the system accesses a parts list that is specific to that identification combination.
  • the system of the present invention automatically identifies the correct radiator for that automobile from among the many radiators that might be used in a "make A" automobile.
  • Another important feature of this data entry window is the general information which is displayed for the user in addition to the fields relating to the data for that window.
  • the screen may identify the owner of the vehicle, the VIN, the claim number etc. while permitting the user to enter the damage information.
  • the system provides a running update of parts price and labor estimates for the parts and operations identified in this data entry window. As each additional part or operation is added to the estimate the running labor and parts price totals are updated. The user can thus always have an indication of cost while the estimate is being prepared.
  • the system can be designed so that the user cannot enter the DAMAGE ENTRY window for inserting damage entry information until the user has entered information in the VEHICLE ID and MANDATORY DATA window.
  • the third window of the NEW ESTIMATE file is the INSURANCE/INSPECTION window.
  • This window requests that the user enter such information as the claim number, the policy number, the loss date, the agent, the insurance company, the insured, the claimant, the type of loss, the inspection type, the inspection date, the inspection location, and information identifying the appraiser.
  • the information regarding the type of loss 411 and the inspection type 412 can be selected for entry from corresponding lists of options available that are provided by the system to the user when the user enters the corresponding data field.
  • the fourth window in the NEW ESTIMATE file is the OWNER/AUTO window 413. This window requests that the user enter information identifying the owner of the automobile, the license number, mileage and condition of the automobile.
  • the condition data field 414 is associated with a selection list for which the user can access information and directly add it to the field rather than creating information for that field.
  • the fifth window in connection with the NEW ESTIMATE file is the REPAIRER/RATES window 415.
  • the user is prompted to enter information regarding the repairer facility, including address and communication information, rates regarding certain types of work such as sheet metal work and refinishing, the amount of discount mark up given by the repairer, the parts tax at that location, the labor tax associated with that location, and information regarding deductible type as well as the deductible and towing and storage costs.
  • Data for the deductible type field 416 can be entered or selected from another selection list.
  • the repairer facility information can be selected from a previously entered list 417.
  • the repairer/rate information may be previously loaded into the system by the user.
  • the sixth window used in creating a new estimate is the REMARKS window 418. This window provides the user with the capability of accessing previously stored remarks which are desired to be inserted in connection with the estimate. These are generally custom made remarks from the user and not information which is standard information derived from the CD ROM or the operating text files.
  • the seventh window relates to the IMPACT POINT.
  • this window 419 a top perspective view of an automobile is provided with numbered designations or codes provided along the perimeter of the automobile to designate areas where an impact might occur. The user is prompted to enter the location of the primary impact and the secondary impact. Upon completion of entry of information into fields of all seven windows (or six windows if additional remarks are not desired) , a new estimate has been created. The user must then save the estimate. This can be accomplished by accessing the CLOSE ESTIMATE 303 capability under the FILE menu, or by accessing the SAVE option under the FILE menu. The CLOSE ESTIMATE selection is illustrated in Fig. 6.
  • the FILE menu also provides the user with the option of opening an existing estimate.
  • Estimator field which identifies the estimator is displayed to the user, completed with the name of the user by default. However, a list of estimators is provided by the system so that the user can select a another estimator from the list. After entering an
  • ESTIMATOR selection the user then makes the selection as to how to open the existing estimate in the field "OPEN AS" 503.
  • the user has the capability of selecting from a plurality of claims which are identified by claim numbers, owners' names and loss dates in appropriate fields on the display when the OPEN ESTIMATE option is selected.
  • Another option existing under the FILE menu is the capability of entering a user ID. This option, ENTER USER ID 304, is illustrated in Fig. 7, and provides the user with the capability of changing the user name to enter a new name 701 and to enter a new password 702 associated with the user name.
  • FILE MANAGEMENT option 305 Another selection possibility under the FILE menu is the FILE MANAGEMENT option 305.
  • This option provides the user with the capability of managing the files in the estimation system and provides the user with three further options. This configuration of options is illustrated in Fig. 8.
  • the user can choose to copy vehicle information from the CD ROM to the system hard drive 801; can copy estimate information from the system to a floppy disk and delete the corresponding file 802; or can restore an estimate from a floppy disk to the file 803.
  • the user selects the first option of copying vehicle identification information from the CD ROM to the hard drive 801
  • the user is asked to identify or select those vehicles from a vehicle list on the CD ROM and the information corresponding to the selected vehicles will be provided for copying to the hard drive 804.
  • the system provides the user with a list of available estimates and prompts the user to select a desired estimate for copying to such a disk 805.
  • the estimates on the floppy disk are provided for selection by the user and the user selects an estimate for loading to the hard drive 806.
  • the final option under the FILE menu is the QUIT option. Using this option, the estimator can end the system operation by activating a single key.
  • Fig. 9 The options under the SETUP menu are illustrated in Fig. 9. There are four options available to the user once the SETUP 202 is selected. The user can select SETUP COMMUNICATIONS 901, PRELOADS 902, MANDATORY FIELDS 903, or DISCLOSURES FOR AFTER MARKET PARTS 904. The options available to the user upon selection of one of these four alternatives under the SETUP are described with reference to Figs. 10-12.
  • the SETUP COMMUNICATIONS option 901 provides the user with four additional choices, all related to managing phone records as illustrated in Fig. 10.
  • the user can select either to create new phone records 1001; to update phone records 1002; to delete phone records 1003; or to activate a phone record 1004.
  • Each of the phone records includes certain information which, in the new phone record option, the user is prompted to enter such as the type of modem 1005, the network type 1006, the baud rate 1007, and the communications port number 1008.
  • the system provides the user with a selection list for each of these four data fields.
  • the user is also prompted to enter the corresponding phone number, the host corresponding to the phone number, the appropriate password, the desired CPU and partition of interest, step 1009.
  • FIG. 11 illustrates the choices available to the user when the PRELOAD is selected under SETUP.
  • the user is offered three choices, the opportunity to preload repairer/rate information 1101; to preload remarks 1102; or to preload manual entries 1103.
  • the remarks relate to the REMARKS window of the NEW ESTIMATE under FILE, while the manual entries also relate to the guide number selections which are available to the user in the DAMAGE ENTRY window of the NEW ESTIMATE selection.
  • the repairer/rate preload option 1101 the user can either enter new repairer/rate information 1101, update old repairer/rate information 11012, or delete repairer/rate information 11013.
  • Such information constitutes the list available to the user when the REPAIRER/RATE window of the NEW ESTIMATE option under the FILE menu is selected.
  • the user has the opportunity to treat mandatory fields, such as the field for the four digit code identifying the manufacturer and make, or the style/model field, etc. of the NEW ESTIMATE worksheet. These define the base line data required by the system to generate an estimate.
  • the user is also provided with the option of adding new mandatory fields 1201 or removing previously added mandatory fields 1202. This provides the user with the capability of customizing the "mandatory fields” to categorize information beyond the "base line” data as also necessary for estimate generation.
  • the next submenu list available to the user is that for PRINT 203.
  • the user has six options, three review options, typically used before print operations, and three print operations.
  • Each review and each print operation is associated with a different type of report. For instance, there is a review operation and a print operation for estimates 1401 and 1402.
  • the user also has the option of selecting either a review or a print operation for an elimination report 1403 and 1404.
  • the elimination report relates to the elimination of duplicated time or labor operations in the installation or repair of a number of parts of the automobile. This elimination calculation capability is described in greater detail below.
  • the user also has the capability of reviewing or printing a locate report 1305 and 1306.
  • the locate report provides an indication of the location of the best parts selected in using the best parts algorithm. This relates to the system's capability of selecting the best replacement parts at the best price at the best labor installation charges and providing the user with an indication of the parts supply shops at which those best parts can be obtained. This constitutes a location report indicating the location of the selected best parts.
  • the menu for OPTIONS 204 provides four selection choices for the user. The first is the capability of turning on or turning off a particular calculation capability referred to as CALC ON 1401. The system as described above always selects the "best part" or "correct part” for a replacement part based on the automobile identification number entered.
  • the system will calculate the labor elimination when the CALC ON mode is activated by user selection from the OPTIONS menu.
  • the user has the option of enabling the CALC ON mode during the creation of the estimate.
  • the running update described above in connection with the DAMAGE ENTRY window includes labor elimination calculations.
  • this calculation or processing can slow down the device.
  • the user can disable the CALC ON mode during damage data entry and the enable that mode after damage data entry has been completed.
  • the user also has the capability of setting the guide number sequence 1402 or the repair order number sequence 1403 for transmission purposes in this submenu.
  • the user has the capability of entering an after market parts override mode 1404.
  • the user can override the geocode 1405, which is automatically inserted by the system into the coded transmission for determining after market parts available.
  • the override mode 1404 permits the user to also edit or amend the automatic insert 1406 which is also included in that coded transmission. That transmission and the capabilities of this system as a result of implementing that transmission are described in greater detail below.
  • COMMUNICATIONS 205 there are four communications possibilities available to the user. They are: communications to determine after market parts 1501; communications to down load administrative information 1502; communications to down load estimates 1503; and billing capabilities 1504. Each of these functions is described in greater detail below.
  • the user is prompted to enter an appropriate customer identification, a password and a log number, 1505; and provide communications information regarding the host which is to be accessed, the type of network, the modem, the port number and the baud rate 1506 so as to establish a communications path to the database that provides after market parts information.
  • the user designates the billing function to be permitted to perform additional transactions.
  • the user buys the service by purchasing the right to execute a number of transactions.
  • the user can purchase a number of transactions and that number is entered into the user's system treating the number much like credits to an account.
  • a transaction counter monitors the occurrence of transactions and "debits the account”.
  • the system prompts the user to select the number of estimates desired, 1507.
  • the system assigns a billing number to those estimates, 1508.
  • the billing number is constructed in part based on the number of estimates desired.
  • the number can be used for security purposes and can be cross-check data for the host.
  • the system identifies a reporting station to which the user is to report the billing number 1509.
  • the host reporting station supplies an appropriate billing password to the user.
  • the user enters that password into the system and the "transaction account” is accordingly modified based on information in the billing password.
  • the main menu option, HELP 206 provides the user with: the capability of accessing an index 1601, the ability to obtain helpful information in carrying out the processes 1602; and the capability of selecting a tutorial for how the system operates 1603.
  • the tutorial will step the user through the operation process including the entry of data into new estimates to familiarize the user with the system.
  • This tutorial, taken in conjunction with the intuitive menu driven data entry system of the present invention will provide the user with a system that the user can learn easily and which provides the user with the capability of quickly increasing efficiency of use.
  • the body shop version of the embodiment of the present invention is quite similar to the insurance version in the menu displays provided for the user.
  • the menu displays have been customized to the needs of the body shop environment.
  • Figs. 17-23 illustrate menu displays which differ from those in the insurance version of Figs. 2-16.
  • Fig. 17 illustrates that the body shop version also provides six choices on the main menu.
  • the COMMUNICATIONS choice of the insurance version is replaced with a BILLING choice for the body shop version.
  • FILE 1701 shown in Fig. 18 the user has seven options, the new option being a PARTS LOOKUP operation which is shown in greater detail in Fig. 18a.
  • This parts lookup menu 1801 prompts the user to enter the style/model number of the automobile 1810, the year 1811, the engine type 1812, and the options 1813 as well as the guide number 1814 and the included operations 1814.
  • the system searches for parts and information relating to parts such as gross labor, part prices and included operations to replace the part from the CD ROM database regarding such vehicle parts lists.
  • NEW ESTIMATE 1802 under FILE the user will be presented with four windows in contrast with the seven windows presented in the insurance version. These four windows are the VEHICLE ID and ADMINISTRATIVE DATA window; the DAMAGE ENTRY window; the INSURER/RATES window; and the REMARKS window. These windows correspond to the windows in the insurance version. The user is also supplied with the running update of parts and labor information in this version.
  • the body shop version include the capabilities of the FILE MANAGEMENT option in the insurance version, namely the capability of copying a vehicle list or vehicle information from the CD ROM to the hard drive 2001, or copying estimates to a floppy disk 2002, or restoring an estimate from a floppy disk 2003, but further includes the capability of copying information from the estimating system to a body shop management system 2004.
  • This option is important in the body shop version because it provides the user with the capability of integrating autobody repair information derived from the part lists available from the CD ROM with a typical body shop management system database which the body shop may employ if an estimate is created.
  • the body shop version is more fully integrated with the overall body shop environment, taking into account the likelihood that the body shop uses its own computer-based management systems in its normal day-to ⁇ day operations.
  • SETUP 1702 the choices available to the user are labor rates which can be dependent on rates set by insurers 2101, remarks 2102, manual entries 2103, and repair order disclaimers 2103 as illustrated in Fig. 21.
  • Of particular significance is the capability of the user to access a disclaimer to appear on an estimate or repair order as permitted under this setup submenu. The user is permitted to order this customized disclaimer from technical support staff as described above. The disclaimer can then be inserted at will on any estimate generated.
  • the user also encounters different options under the PRINT 1703 submenu of the body shop version.
  • the user has the options of printing an estimate 2201, printing an elimination report 2202, printing a parts order worksheet 2203, printing a repair order 2204, and printing parts lookup 2205 as shown in Fig. 22.
  • the only overlap with the insurance version is the printing of the estimate or the elimination report.
  • the parts order worksheet, the repair order and the parts lookup print capabilities are custom designed for the body shop environment.
  • the body shop version is quite similar in user friendliness and user interface capabilities to the insurance version.
  • the estimates generated with these two versions are compatible.
  • certain options provided to the user in the body shop version are custom designed to be integrated with the operation desired by the body shop user and the environment of the body shop user. Therefore, while the present invention provides the flexibility of easy adaptability to either an insurance version or a body shop version based on revisions to the operating software, that flexibility does not come at a cost of complexity or a loss of a friendly, familiar user interface.
  • both versions are adaptable to an object-oriented filing system such as those that use pointing devices like a computer mouse to select display regions to open and close files in a "point and click” fashion.
  • the embodiments of the present invention provide additional important functional capabilities for their respective users. They include but are not limited to: the capability of determining after market parts information in the insurance version; setting and relying upon engine descriptions based on previous selections of model/style and year; the operation of an included operations HELP function which permits the user to highlight a part of interest with a cursor bar and then display the specific associated labor operations for the highlighted part; the process of total loss valuations; detection of parts or theft fraud; and access to additional databases having, for example, the capability of down loading administrative data onto and up loading data from the stand alone system.
  • the basic configuration for searching for after market parts information is illustrated in Fig. 26 of the application.
  • the stand alone station includes the CPU 2601, the display 2602, the printer 2603, and the CD ROM 2604, which are similar to their counterparts in the configuration of Fig. 1.
  • the configuration includes an ARDIS modem 2605 which allows the user to communicate with an after market parts centralized database 2606 by way of a radio network.
  • This embodiment of the present invention will provide an appraiser with parts exchange/new (PX/N) information. However, it is also possible that the user will be interested in information about salvage parts (parts exchange/salvage) . This option can also be provided in the After Market Parts searching capabilities.
  • the system will be capable of printing parts exchange (PX) reports after a host processor executes the include/exclude process, customer options filtering, and PX/N search.
  • the user is set up as a PX/N user with a customer ID on the host.
  • the same customer ID is set up on the stand alone system.
  • the user may enter a geocode on the stand alone by selecting the after market parts item under the setup submenu.
  • the geocode When the geocode is entered on the stand alone system, it overrides the geocode in the host customer record.
  • the estimator may also override the automatic insert to OFF by selecting the same after market parts item under the setup menu as described above. Absent the user overriding the automatic insert, the host ID will always have the automatic insert turned on.
  • the AFTER MARKET PARTS option is selected from the COMMUNICATIONS submenu.
  • Data is sent to the host indicating the damaged parts which are all replace and economy-glass parts which have no adjustments, no overrides applied, and no message codes from prior PX/N searches. Additionally, the estimate level discount percentage is transmitted. The customer ID is passed to the host to select the proper include/exclude options and the geocode.
  • a default ARDIS communications record is used so that the connection appears to be transparent to the user except for the introduction of time delays.
  • the user does not have to perform some communications establishing protocol and no physical connections have to be established to initiate communications.
  • a message is displayed on the monitor for the user and the user must press a key to continue and is returned to the screen from which the COMMUNICATIONS/after market parts option was invoked.
  • One error message may indicate that the customer ID passed from the stand alone system is not valid on the host or that the customer ID is not set up as a PX/N user. If, however, no error messages are generated, the processing operation continues at the host.
  • the include/exclude options set up for the user are utilized in the PX/N filtering.
  • An average price for a part identified by a guide number is calculated from the located parts as a result of the searching process.
  • the host OEM price is returned to the stand alone configuration as it is the most up-to-date information. Glass parts will also have the average price or OEM price returned.
  • the user will see the PX/N information inserted in the damage entry list unless the automatic insert option has been turned off by an override of the automatic insert as described above. Information is inserted for each replace and economy-glass part. Parts without hits have the OEM price and message codes 40 or 49 inserted. Parts without inventory will show the message code 40.
  • the message codes that print include "OEM PRICE INSERTED", parts with hits have "P" inserted to the left of the guide number in the damage entry list, the
  • the user can select the print locate report or review locate report items under PRINT to either print or review that report. This may be done at any time.
  • the average price, supplier part number, supplier address and phone number are provided in the locate report.
  • the supplier addresses are stored on the hard drive. If a supplier identification code is sent from the host that is not on the stand alone system, the user will see the supplier ID and a message to call the database operator for distributor information. PX/N disclosures will be printed on the report. These are set up before the PX/N is requested.
  • Fig. 27 The steps of the process for after market parts analysis are illustrated in Fig. 27.
  • the user selects the after market parts operation 2701 and the system then transmits the customer ID, geocode and appropriate include/exclude options to the host.
  • the user system transmits the identifier of the damaged parts, i.e., guide numbers, for replace and economy-glass parts having no adjustments or overrides and for which no previous PX/N search has been performed 2703.
  • the host system searches for parts and either returns a host OEM price 2704 or locates the part corresponding to the guide number 2705 and calculates an average price 2706 and inserts the price information into the estimate 2707.
  • the host system provides location information regarding the detected part, such as the information about the supplier and the supplier's identification for the part.
  • radio network communications option will be selected by a user who has taken the stand alone device into the field and does not have ready access to less expensive communications media such as telephone lines.
  • less expensive communications media such as telephone lines.
  • the user may use a standard telecommunications interface device such as an RJ-ll and establish communications to an After Market Parts database by way of such a communications path.
  • This capability creates an engine selection list with engine codes to be entered into the estimation worksheet where the list is defined by the user decisions with respect to other worksheet information.
  • the user first enters a code representing the manufacturer and make of the automobile and then a selection menu for the style/models is displayed automatically. Once a style/model is selected, a years menu displays automatically. Once a year is selected, a menu for engines is displayed automatically. Therefore, the system provides lists to the user for prompting the input of information into the estimate worksheet where the lists are defined in accordance with selections made by the user of information for data fields upstream of the data field in question.
  • the included operations help function of the present system is available to the user in the damage entry screen.
  • the user can highlight a part on the damage entry screen using the cursor bar and then select the included operations help function.
  • a pop-up window will then display the specific associated labor operations for the highlighted part.
  • the labor information will be labor operation and labor description.
  • the information displayed will be the result of the "get correct” or "get best” function.
  • the information is independent of final calculations, i.e., the CALC toggle may be "on” or "off” as selected under the OPTIONS submenu and the system will still perform the "get best” function.
  • the CALC toggle governs the extent of additional processing during damage entry.
  • CALC toggle When the CALC toggle is "on", overlap and assembly elimination and final calculations are performed for all entered parts in addition to “get best” for the parts and labor. When CALC toggle is “off”, only the “get best” operation for parts and labor is performed. As described above, the net effect of CALC “off” is to avoid a negative effect with respect to system response time which might arise where CALC is "on” and a large number of damaged parts entered.
  • the system of the present invention provides two operations by which repair costs can be compared to the total loss value of the automobile.
  • the total loss value is generally determined by the make/model/year/engine/option associated with the automobile, the condition, the region of sale, etc.
  • the CD ROM can store information relating to an "average” or "gross” or “coarse” total loss value for a make/model/year. Then, as the user enters the damage data and the running updated cost is created, the system can provide a warning to the user that, based on a comparison to the average total loss value the repair cost might exceed the total loss value. The user can then access a database by way of establishing a communications path and determine more specific information about the precise total loss value for the automobile based on all of the factors described above. Thus, the user is provided with a coarse and a fine scale for total loss value comparison purposes.
  • the VIN is used to identify automobiles reported lost or stolen or damaged.
  • a data base is maintained that stores information regarding such events with reference to a VIN
  • the user can perform a fraud check by accessing such a database.
  • the user can access the database using a communications path such as a radio or telephone network.
  • the VIN of the automobile which is the subject of the estimate could be compared to information from the database and attempts at parts fraud can be detected.
  • the load administrative capability permits the insurance version user, such as field estimators, to electronically retrieve assignments at the end of each day. This requires a phone connection to establish a transmission path from the stand alone computer to the storage or generation location of the assignment information.
  • An entry clerk at a first location can receive claim administrative information and use a prestore function to enter data on a host.
  • the stand alone user can then set up a phone record with a proper CPU ID using the setup submenu item COMMUNICATIONS.
  • the user selects LOAD ADMIN from the
  • COMMUNICATIONS menu list The default phone record is used and the connect is automatic if the modem is set up. After selecting LOAD ADMIN, a "connect to host" dialog box will appear on the monitor. This box will display the phone network information and has interactive connect status information. The user is then notified if administrative information for the transmitted customer ID is available on the CPU. If not, the user may activate another phone record to change CPUs if this is appropriate, otherwise, the assignment information can be accessed from the host and loaded onto the user's system.
  • the system can also down load estimate data from the host to permit the user to update estimate records. Also, the system can up load administrative, estimate and billing information to the host after establishing a communications path.
  • Access to other databases by way of standard communications paths is anticipated to provide the user with the capability to integrate with other management systems such as parts accounting systems, repair management systems and purchase order management systems.
  • the user will be provided with a plurality of worksheets which will provide illustrations of the automobiles' models and parts involved with a particular estimate. It is also conceivable that in other embodiments of the present invention, online graphics capabilities will be provided at the stand alone device for display to the user thereby reducing or eliminating the need for reliance on the paper worksheets.
  • One such graphic illustration option is to utilize scanned raster images. This approach would still utilize the worksheets but divide them into zones or subzone illustrations. These illustrations would then be scanned into a database.
  • Three display and parts selection options would be provided: first, a static zone image referenced by guide numbers listed on the perimeter of the image which the user would keystroke manually; second, an interactive image which would be invoked by the user pointing to, touching or selecting a hot spot on the perimeter of the illustration which points to the desired part; third, an interactive image which would be invoked by the user pointing to, touching or selecting a "hot spot" on the desired part itself.
  • the system would use vector zones/sub-zones images.
  • a vector database would be created using worksheets divided into zone or sub-zone illustrations. These interactive images would be displayed on screen and the user would point and click, touch or select the desired part. A corresponding text parts list would accompany the illustration.
  • the advantage of this approach is that it would yield more refined graphic images than the raster approach and would enable easier development of touch screen or point and click part selection. It also enables effective image zooming if required.
  • a third graphic illustration option utilizes vector part images. Under this approach, a vector database would be supplied having individual part images. The advantage of this approach is that individual part illustrations specific to one make/model/year/engine/option content could be customized on demand to form unique zone illustrations. A corresponding text parts list would accompany the illustration. This differs from the second graphic illustration option described above because the zone illustration would be specific to one vehicle, not the family of models represented by a span of years as is illustrated on the typical worksheets used in connection with the first embodiment of the present invention. This approach permits further graphic illustration customization which could yield multiple formats required for hail catastrophes, book illustrations, custom worksheets by section of the vehicle, layered llustrations, etc.
  • the user can be provided with the capability of switching between a vehicle representation display and a parts list.
  • the present invention relates to a unique stand alone estimation system which uses a high density storage medium storing vehicle parts information.
  • the processing and data provided by the stand alone configuration allow a user to create and edit estimates effecting a wide array of vehicles and parts, which in the past was only accessible by way of online searching with a centralized database.
  • the system is portable and flexible. It is also user friendly, due to an intuitive menu driven configuration which prompts the user to enter data for mandatory data fields and assists the user in completing estimate worksheets and determining additional parts and labor information.
  • the system constitutes a truly distributive processing configuration whereby on-line and on-site processing are integrated.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
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  • Technology Law (AREA)
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Abstract

Système informatique autonome (10), s'appuyant sur un support de mémoire (14) à haute densité, qui fournit un système d'estimation sur place et facile d'emploi pour l'utilisateur. Ledit système est adaptable aux assurances et aux ateliers de carrosserie. Il comporte des capacités de communication destinées à compléter les données disponibles dans la configuration autonome. Ladite configuration offre un système d'entrée de données servant à établir des estimations, facile à utiliser, qui donne à l'utilisateur des informations régulièrement mises à jour sur les pièces et la main-d'oeuvre en même temps que l'estimation s'effectue.
PCT/US1991/008774 1990-11-27 1991-11-26 Procede et appareil pour appreciations et estimations autonomes WO1992010807A1 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US61860890A 1990-11-27 1990-11-27
US618,608 1990-11-27

Publications (1)

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WO1992010807A1 true WO1992010807A1 (fr) 1992-06-25

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AU (1) AU9140691A (fr)
WO (1) WO1992010807A1 (fr)
ZA (1) ZA919365B (fr)

Cited By (7)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6338045B1 (en) * 1998-01-20 2002-01-08 John Charalambos Pappas Apparatus for and method of managing and tracking activities and parts
EP1215612A1 (fr) * 2000-02-15 2002-06-19 E.A.C. Co., Ltd. Systeme d'evaluation de frais de reparation d'automobile et procede d'estimation
EP0982673A3 (fr) * 1998-08-21 2002-10-02 Tsubasa System Co. Ltd. Système pour estimer les coûts de réparation d'un véhicule
EP1292896A1 (fr) * 2000-06-21 2003-03-19 American Management Systems, Incorporated Systeme automatise de gestion de declarations de sinistre
EP1219946A3 (fr) * 2000-12-28 2008-03-12 Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Système d'organisation pour véhicule
US9824397B1 (en) 2013-10-23 2017-11-21 Allstate Insurance Company Creating a scene for property claims adjustment
US10269074B1 (en) 2013-10-23 2019-04-23 Allstate Insurance Company Communication schemes for property claims adjustments

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DE3110788A1 (de) * 1980-03-19 1982-02-11 Japan Audatex Co., Ltd., Tokyo Tragbares geraet fuer die erstellung von kostenvoranschlaegen fuer reparaturen an automobilen
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DE3110788A1 (de) * 1980-03-19 1982-02-11 Japan Audatex Co., Ltd., Tokyo Tragbares geraet fuer die erstellung von kostenvoranschlaegen fuer reparaturen an automobilen
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Cited By (13)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6338045B1 (en) * 1998-01-20 2002-01-08 John Charalambos Pappas Apparatus for and method of managing and tracking activities and parts
EP0982673A3 (fr) * 1998-08-21 2002-10-02 Tsubasa System Co. Ltd. Système pour estimer les coûts de réparation d'un véhicule
EP1215612A1 (fr) * 2000-02-15 2002-06-19 E.A.C. Co., Ltd. Systeme d'evaluation de frais de reparation d'automobile et procede d'estimation
EP1215612A4 (fr) * 2000-02-15 2003-08-20 E A C Co Ltd Systeme d'evaluation de frais de reparation d'automobile et procede d'estimation
EP1292896A1 (fr) * 2000-06-21 2003-03-19 American Management Systems, Incorporated Systeme automatise de gestion de declarations de sinistre
EP1292896A4 (fr) * 2000-06-21 2005-09-21 American Man Sys Inc Systeme automatise de gestion de declarations de sinistre
EP1219946A3 (fr) * 2000-12-28 2008-03-12 Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha Système d'organisation pour véhicule
US9824397B1 (en) 2013-10-23 2017-11-21 Allstate Insurance Company Creating a scene for property claims adjustment
US10062120B1 (en) 2013-10-23 2018-08-28 Allstate Insurance Company Creating a scene for property claims adjustment
US10068296B1 (en) 2013-10-23 2018-09-04 Allstate Insurance Company Creating a scene for property claims adjustment
US10269074B1 (en) 2013-10-23 2019-04-23 Allstate Insurance Company Communication schemes for property claims adjustments
US10504190B1 (en) 2013-10-23 2019-12-10 Allstate Insurance Company Creating a scene for progeny claims adjustment
US11062397B1 (en) 2013-10-23 2021-07-13 Allstate Insurance Company Communication schemes for property claims adjustments

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
AU9140691A (en) 1992-07-08
ZA919365B (en) 1993-05-27

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