Remote vehicle rental systems and methods
US9818151B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 4, 2012 |
| Grant date | Nov 14, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 24, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04W4/80
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A system for renting vehicles is disclosed. The system can comprise a vehicle access communicator (“VAC”) capable of interfacing with one or more functions of a rental vehicle and a user provided portable electronic device. The VAC can control various functions of the vehicle including, but not limited to, the door locks and/or enabling/disabling the vehicle. The VAC can also monitor various functions of the vehicle including, but not limited to, the fuel level and/or the odometer readings. The VAC can connect to the portable electronic device using a suitable connection method to access additional functionality such as, for example and not limitation, locations services, cellular, and/or internet access. The VAC and the portable electronic device can be used to provide a rental system with reduced infrastructure and operating costs. The system can enable the use of “Green Zones” to provide permanent or temporary vehicle rental areas.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.