U.S. patent application number 12/691956 was filed with the patent office on 2010-07-22 for automotive core fulfillment system and method.
This patent application is currently assigned to REBUILDERS AUTOMOTIVE SUPPLY. Invention is credited to Jack A. BOWSER, Brian Richard MADAY, Christopher William SNEED.
Application Number | 20100185497 12/691956 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39473959 |
Filed Date | 2010-07-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100185497 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
BOWSER; Jack A. ; et
al. |
July 22, 2010 |
AUTOMOTIVE CORE FULFILLMENT SYSTEM AND METHOD
Abstract
A system and method for facilitating acquisition of automotive
core parts from automotive recyclers for remanufacture includes
identifying automotive cores and determining the value of the cores
with a core fulfillment system. The core fulfillment system
includes an interchange database with automotive core descriptions
and corresponding interchange identification indicators. The system
includes a core supplier database that includes automotive core
descriptions with corresponding core supplier identification
indicators and an interchange number matching module that equates
database entries in the interchange database with database entries
in the core supplier database. An interface module provides access
to the core fulfillment system, accepts vehicle information, and
provides demand and pricing information regarding automotive cores.
Vehicle information is received and compared to automotive core
descriptions, automotive interchange numbers, and core supplier
identification indicators that correspond to the vehicle
identification information. Automotive cores are identified based
upon the comparison, and a core value is determined.
Inventors: |
BOWSER; Jack A.; (Wakefield,
RI) ; SNEED; Christopher William; (Worcester, MA)
; MADAY; Brian Richard; (Warwick, RI) |
Correspondence
Address: |
J.A. Lindeman & Co. PLLC
3190 Fairview Park Drive, Suite 480
Falls Church
VA
22042
US
|
Assignee: |
REBUILDERS AUTOMOTIVE
SUPPLY
Coventry
RI
|
Family ID: |
39473959 |
Appl. No.: |
12/691956 |
Filed: |
January 22, 2010 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12017767 |
Jan 22, 2008 |
7680706 |
|
|
12691956 |
|
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|
60881524 |
Jan 22, 2007 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
705/28 ; 705/29;
705/306 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 10/0875 20130101;
G06Q 30/0278 20130101; G06Q 10/087 20130101; G06Q 10/00 20130101;
G06Q 30/0283 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/10 ; 705/28;
705/29; 705/306 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 50/00 20060101
G06Q050/00; G06Q 10/00 20060101 G06Q010/00 |
Claims
1. An automotive core fulfillment system comprising: an interchange
database that includes automotive core descriptions and automotive
recycler descriptions, the automotive core descriptions describing
automobile part assemblies to be remanufactured; a core supplier
database that includes automotive core descriptions and core
supplier identification indicators; and an interchange number
matching computing device configured to equate the automotive
recycler descriptions in the interchange database with a core
supplier identification database entry in the core supplier
database and configured to provide at least one of demand
information, pricing information, or an offer for purchase price
that a core supplier will pay for the automotive core.
2. The automotive core fulfillment system of claim 1, wherein at
least one of demand information or pricing information or an offer
for purchase is provided to a remote user through a computer
network.
3. The automotive core fulfillment system of claim 1, wherein the
recycler descriptions are Hollander numbers.
4. A computer-implemented method of determining a value of an
automotive core with a core fulfillment system, the method
comprising: comparing vehicle identification information and
automotive core descriptions in an interchange database to core
supplier identification indicators in a core supplier database that
correspond to the vehicle identification information; identifying
the automotive core as an automotive core entry with an interchange
number matching computing device based upon the comparison of the
vehicle identification information to automotive core descriptions
and core supplier identification indicators, the automotive core
entry including at least one of a part type identifier, a yard
description, or a core value; determining, with a demand and
pricing database, a core inventory value of the automotive core;
and generating a vehicle evaluation page including at least one of
the core type or the yard description and at least one of the core
value or an offer for purchase price that a core supplier will pay
for the automotive core.
5. The method of claim 4, wherein the identified automotive core
entry further includes demand for the automotive core.
6. The method of claim 4, wherein the vehicle identification
information includes at least one of the year the vehicle was
manufactured, the make of the vehicle, or the model of the
vehicle.
7. The method of claim 6 further comprising: comparing, with the
interchange number matching computing device, at least one of
engine displacement volume, number of cylinders, transmission type,
number of doors, identification number, or brake type to automotive
core descriptions and core supplier identification indicators that
correspond to the vehicle identification information to further
identify the automotive core.
8. A computer-implemented method of determining a value of an
automotive core with a core fulfillment system, the method
comprising: comparing the part type identification information and
automotive core descriptions in an interchange database to core
supplier identification indicators in a core supplier database that
correspond to the part type identification information; identifying
the automotive core as an automotive core entry with an interchange
number matching computing device based upon the comparison of the
part type identification information to automotive core
descriptions and core supplier identification indicators, the
automotive core entry including at least one of a part type
identifier, a yard description, or a core value; determining, with
a demand and pricing database, a core inventory value of the
automotive core; and generating a vehicle evaluation page including
at least one of the core type or yard description and at least one
of the core value or an offer for purchase price that a core
supplier will pay for the automotive core.
9. The method of claim 8, wherein the identified automotive core
entry further includes demand for the automotive core.
10. A computer readable storage media for determining the value of
an automotive core with a core fulfillment system, the computer
readable storage media comprising one or more computer-readable
instructions configured to cause one or more computer processors to
execute operations comprising: comparing vehicle identification
information to automotive core descriptions and core supplier
identification indicators that correspond to the vehicle
identification information; identifying the automotive core as an
automotive core entry based upon the comparison of the vehicle
identification information to automotive core descriptions and core
supplier identification indicators, the automotive core entry
including at least one of a part type identifier, a yard
description, or a core value; determining a core inventory value;
and generating a vehicle evaluation page showing at least one of
the core type or yard description and at least one of the core
inventory value an offer for purchase price that a core supplier
will pay for the automotive core.
11. The computer readable storage media of claim 10, wherein the
identified automotive core entry further includes demand for the
automotive core.
12. The computer readable storage media of claim 10, wherein the
vehicle identification information includes at least one of the
year the vehicle was manufactured, the make of the vehicle, or the
model of the vehicle.
13. The computer readable storage media of claim 12 further
comprising computer-readable instructions configured to cause one
or more computer processors to execute the operations comprising:
comparing at least one of engine displacement volume, number of
cylinders, transmission type, number of doors, identification
number, or brake type to automotive core descriptions and core
supplier identification indicators that correspond to the vehicle
identification information to further identify the automotive core.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation application of
U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/017,767 filed on Jan. 22, 2008,
entitled "Automotive Core Fulfillment System and Method," which
claims the benefit of priority of U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 60/881,524 filed on Jan. 22, 2007. These
applications are incorporated by reference below in their
entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present invention is directed to system and method for
facilitating acquisition of automotive cores from the automotive
recycling industry for remanufacture.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Automotive recyclers such as salvage yards acquire used
automotive parts, such as powertrain, chassis, and body parts of
automobiles. Many of the mechanical parts from these vehicles are
referred to in the salvage industry as "cores." Cores are typically
extracted from automobiles that were purchased by the recyclers for
the purpose of disassembling them to sell the cores. In other
instances, cores may be acquired from manufacturers of the parts
themselves, where a defect has been found in the manufactured part
so that the part cannot be used unless remanufactured.
[0004] The automotive recyclers sell the extracted cores from
automobiles to core suppliers that gather large quantities of a
particular core for a particular vehicle. Core suppliers identify
the purchased cores and then verify that the cores can be
remanufactured or otherwise reconditioned. These gathered
quantities of cores for a particular vehicle are then sold to
remanufacturers who recondition these parts. For remanufacturers,
receiving good, rebuildable cores in large quantities is important
since remanufacturing of the cores often requires tooling and
machining lines that must be set up for a particular core. Thus,
remanufacturers typically prefer to purchase cores from core
suppliers in bulk rather than from automotive recyclers one piece
at a time.
[0005] The remanufacturers recondition or remanufacture these cores
and then sell these remanufactured/reconditioned parts to wholesale
or retail automotive part suppliers. Because these cores are
reconditioned rather than being entirely manufactured, the
remanufactured parts can be sold for less than the corresponding
new parts.
[0006] Automotive recyclers use a standard parts identification
system referred to as an interchange, such as the Hollander
interchange, for example, to help identify parts from vehicles.
Such interchange systems allow an automotive recycler to identify
the make, model, and year range of most parts on a given vehicle,
and to identify the parts using a proprietary alphanumeric
identification system. In contrast, core suppliers and
remanufacturers may utilize different identification numbers than
the automotive recyclers. For example, core suppliers and
remanufacturers may use Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM)
numbers, casting numbers, and remanufacturer-specific proprietary
stock keeping unit (SKU) numbers. These numbers are very specific
and do not have the same year make model breakdown availability
that salvage industry interchanges have. The core supplier numbers
are very specific whereas the salvage industry interchange numbers
are very broad and may encompass many different numbers.
[0007] Efforts to date to improve the ability to cross reference
core supplier numbers to salvage industry interchange numbers have
been largely unsuccessful in providing a cost-effective manner of
identifying specific cores sought by core suppliers. Additionally,
core suppliers have not been able to satisfactorily characterize
salvage yard inventories. Efforts aimed at improving the ability of
the parties to accurately identify and supply the required parts
have been extremely labor-intense and have not provided a
satisfactory return on the amount of resources expended. What is
needed is a system and a method for quickly and accurately
determining salvage yard inventories and determining the value of a
particular part from a particular automobile.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The above-described difference in automotive part
identification systems and methods used has been found to be a
significant problem for the salvage industry and for the core
supplier industry, where most of the acquired cores are purchased
from salvage facilities of automotive recyclers. In particular,
automotive recyclers are unaware of demand and pricing of the
specific cores being sought after by the core suppliers. In the
present application, the term "cores" refers to mechanical and
electrical automobile parts, which are to be rebuilt, refurbished,
or otherwise reconditioned. For the purposes of this application,
the term "cores" and automobile parts that are to be rebuilt,
refurbished, or otherwise reconditioned are synonymous.
[0009] In addition, automotive recyclers do not have an efficient
way to easily determine the value of a particular part from a
particular automobile. Correspondingly, valuable labor may be
expended by the automotive recycler in removing a partfrom an
automobile, only to find that the core supplier is not willing to
purchase the part due to a lack of demand, a sufficient or
overabundant existing supply inventory, and the like. In addition,
valuable labor may be expended by the automotive recycler in
removing a partfrom an automobile, only to find that the value of
the part offered for purchase by the core supplier is not enough to
cover even the labor cost incurred for the removal of the part.
[0010] Conversely, the automotive recycler may choose not to remove
a particular first part from an automobile in view of the labor
costs involved, and instead, the automotive recycler removes other
certain parts of the automobile in a separate dismantling facility.
The automotive recycler then stores the dismantled automobile in
the salvage yard. The automotive recycler may later find that there
was sufficient demand for the first part so that a profit could
have been made by removing the particular in-demand first part from
the automobile when it was in the dismantling facility, where tools
for removal are immediately available. However, removal of such
first part may no longer be profitable because the automobile has
been stored in the salvage yard and is no longer at the dismantling
facility.
[0011] In both of the above described situations, the result is
that the automotive recycler receives reduced profits, either by
incurring unnecessarily increased labor costs, or by foregoing
potential sales. The automotive core fulfillment system and method
in accordance with the present invention addresses these problems
to increase the automotive recycler's profits, as well as to
provide the automotive recycler with a guaranteed and predetermined
sales outlet for their inventory.
[0012] An automotive core fulfillment system in accordance with the
present invention includes an interchange database that includes
automotive core descriptions with corresponding interchange
identification indicators. The system also includes a core supplier
database that includes automotive core descriptions with
corresponding core supplier identification indicators. The core
supplier identification indicators may include original equipment
manufacturer (OEM) part numbers or other core supplier numbers. The
system also includes an interchange number matching module that
equates a database entry in the interchange database with a
database entry in the core supplier database. The system of the
present invention may utilize Hollander numbers as the interchange
identification indicators, or the system may use other interchange
identification indicators, such as Lester numbers, and the like.
The interchange number matching module matches interchange
identification indicators with corresponding core supplier
identification indicators.
[0013] Additionally, the automotive core fulfillment system of the
present invention may include an interface module that provides
access to the automotive core fulfillment system and accepts
vehicle information and provides demand and pricing information
regarding automotive cores. Further, the system of the present
invention may utilize an on-site interface, or may include an
interface module that provides remote access to the automotive core
fulfillment system with a terminal or other communication device
through a computer network or other communications network.
[0014] A method of the present invention identifies an automotive
core and determines the value of the automotive core with a core
fulfillment system. The method includes receiving vehicle
identification information, comparing the vehicle identification
information to automotive core descriptions and automotive
interchange numbers and core supplier identification indicators
that correspond to the vehicle identification information. The
method also includes identifying the automotive core based upon the
comparison of the vehicle identification information to automotive
core descriptions and automotive interchange numbers and core
supplier identification indicators, the automotive core including a
part type identifier, a yard description, and a core value. Of
course, all parts of an automobile may be identified, including all
mechanical and electrical parts of the automobile, and the value of
the part may be determined using the system and method of the
present invention. For brevity, this application refers to such
mechanical parts and electrical parts as "automotive cores" or
simply "cores."
[0015] Additionally, the method of identifying an automotive core
and determining the value of the automotive core includes
determining a demand for the automotive core. The vehicle
identification information may include the year the vehicle was
manufactured, the make of the vehicle, and the model of the
vehicle. Additional identification information may also be used,
including engine type, engine displacement, transmission type,
brake type, number of doors, and the like, to expand or restrict
the search based upon the more specific or less specific type of
vehicle.
[0016] Multiple cores may be identified using a list of vehicle
identifiers, and the value of those cores may be determined
simultaneously. The list of vehicle identifiers may be a manual
list, a bar code or bar codes, an electronic YIN number or YIN
numbers, or any other notation of multiple vehicle identifiers.
With this vehicle identifier information, a core inventory value
may be determined based upon an aggregate total of core values of
identified automotive cores.
[0017] An alternative method of identifying an automotive core and
determining the value of the automotive core with a core
fulfillment system in accordance with the present invention
includes receiving part type identification information, receiving
an automotive interchange number, and comparing the part type
identification information to automotive core descriptions and core
supplier identification indicators that correspond to the vehicle
identification information and the automotive interchange numbers.
The results of this comparison are then used to identify the
automotive core based upon the comparison of the part type
identification information and automotive interchange number to
automotive core descriptions and core supplier identification
indicators. The identified automotive core may include a part type
identifier, a yard description, and a core value. Additionally, the
automotive core entry may include demand information for the
automotive core.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an automotive core
fulfillment system in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention.
[0019] FIGS. 2A-2W shows example user interface screens generated
by the automotive core fulfillment system of FIG. 1 as an
automotive recycler accesses core fulfillment information in
accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.
[0020] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram schematically illustrating a method
of determining a core value based upon vehicle and part
identification information in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0021] FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an automotive core
fulfillment system 10 in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention. In accordance with the illustrated embodiment,
the automotive core fulfillment system 10 is provided with a
processor 20 that is adapted to control and facilitate functions of
various modules and components of the automotive core fulfillment
system 10 as described in detail below. It should be initially
noted that the automotive core fulfillment system 10 of FIG. 1 may
be implemented with any type of hardware and software, and may be a
pre-programmed general purpose computing device. For example, the
automotive core fulfillment system 10 may be implemented using a
server, a personal computer, a portable computer, a thin terminal,
a hand held device, a wireless device, or any combination of such
devices. The automotive core fulfillment system 10 may be a single
device at a single location or multiple devices at a single
location, or multiple devices at multiple locations that are
connected together using any appropriate communication protocols
over any communication medium such as electric cable, fiber optic
cable, any other cable, or in a wireless manner using radio
frequency, infrared, or other technologies.
[0022] In the illustrated embodiment, the automotive core
fulfillment system 10 is connected to a network 2 that allows
remote access to the automotive core fulfillment system 10 so that
vehicle information and interchange information can be entered, and
so that demand and pricing information regarding automotive cores
can be retrieved from the system. The network 2 allows the
automotive core fulfillment system 10 to interact with remotely
located terminals 4, which are utilized by automotive recyclers 6.
The network 2 may be any type of communications channel, such as
the Internet, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network
(WAN), direct computer connections, and the like, and may be
connected in a wireless manner using radio frequency, infrared, or
other communication technologies, using any type of communication
hardware and protocols. The terminals 4 may be implemented using a
server, a personal computer, a portable computer, a thin terminal,
a hand held device, a wireless device, and any other computing
devices, or any combination of such devices.
[0023] It should also be noted that the automotive core fulfillment
system 10 in accordance with one embodiment of the present
invention is illustrated and discussed herein as having a plurality
of modules and/or components that perform particular functions. It
should be understood that these modules are merely schematically
illustrated based on their function for clarity purposes only, and
do not necessary represent specific hardware or software. In this
regard, these modules and/or sub-modules may be implemented as
hardware and/or softwareto substantially perform the particular
functions explained. Moreover, two or more of these modules may be
combined together within the automotive core fulfillment system 10,
or divided into more modules based on the particular function
desired. Thus, the present invention as schematically embodied in
FIG. 1 should not be construed to limit the automotive core
fulfillment system 10 of the present invention.
[0024] In the above regard, the automotive core fulfillment system
10 in accordance with the illustrated embodiment also includes an
interface module 30 that allows the automotive recyclers 6 to
easily enter a particular vehicle's information such as year, make
and model, and retrieve demand and pricing information for the
various automotive cores of the particular vehicle from the
automotive core fulfillment system 10 via the terminals 4.
Similarly, interface module 30 provides an input and output pathway
from automotive recyclers 6 and core fulfillment system 10. In this
regard, the interface module 30 includes a graphical user interface
(GUI) for receiving vehicle information and other information input
by automotive recyclers 6, and a GUI for displaying the demand and
pricing information for the various automotive cores of the
inputted vehicle.
[0025] Numerous databases are provided in the automotive core
fulfillment system 10 in accordance with the illustrated
embodiment. In particular, the automotive core fulfillment system
10 shown includes an internal interchange database 40, which
includes automotive core descriptions and automotive recycler's
interchange numbers for numerous vehicle makes, models, years, and
the like. Other information regarding the automotive cores can be
stored in the interchange database 40 as well such as corresponding
core supplier's part numbers and/or other interchange numbers, as
well as additional core information. The automotive core
fulfillment system 10 shown also includes a core supplier database
such as Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) number database 50,
which includes automotive core descriptions and their corresponding
OEM part numbers for numerous vehicle makes, models, and years, for
example. Of course, other information regarding the automotive
cores can be stored in OEM number database 50 as well.
[0026] In addition, the automotive core fulfillment system 10 in
accordance with the illustrated embodiment of the present invention
includes an interchange matching module 60 that allows matching of
the recycler's interchange number stored in the interchange
database 40 with a corresponding OEM number stored in the OEM
number database 50. Thus, when the automotive recycler 6 enters
various vehicle information or interchange information using the
terminal 4, the automotive core fulfillment system 10 identifies
the various automotive cores and their corresponding recycler's
interchange numbers in the interchange database 40, and matches
these interchange numbers with the corresponding OEM numbers stored
in the OEM number database 50. In this regard, the data that is
stored in the interchange database 40 and the OEM numbers database
50 is updated periodically to include new vehicle models and
corresponding part numbers for the cores. Therefore, the automotive
core fulfillment system 10 greatly facilitates accurate
identification of automotive cores between the automotive recycler
and the core supplier and remanufacturer so that any transactions
regarding the cores between these parties can be facilitated.
[0027] Furthermore, the automotive core fulfillment system 10 in
accordance with the illustrated embodiment also includes a Demand
and Pricing database 70, which includes demand information for
particular cores that indicates whether there is an existing
remanufacturer requesting particular cores for purchase. In
addition, the Demand and Pricing database 70 also includes pricing
information that identifies the price at which the particular cores
will be purchased by the core supplier and/or by the remanufacturer
from the automotive recycler 6. It is important to note that the
pricing information is an offer for purchase price, and not an
offer for sale price. The demand and pricing information is largely
provided by the demands of the remanufacturers for the particular
parts. Correspondingly, because the remanufacturers utilize OEM
part numbers, the demand information and pricing information stored
in the Demand and Pricing database 70 is correlated to the OEM
parts. This information stored in the Demand and Pricing database
70 is also updated periodically to include new demand and new
pricing information as demand and prices change in the marketplace.
With up-to-date demand and pricing information, automotive
recyclers 6 and core suppliers can make informed decisions about
transactions to which they are a party.
[0028] It should also be understood that the price for a particular
core will typically differ between the core supplier and the
(end-user) remanufacturer since the core supplier is in the
business of aggregating large quantities of a particular core for
the remanufacturers, and the core supplier will purchase the cores
from a plurality of automotive recyclers, and then sell the
aggregated quantity to the remanufacturers at a higher price to
make some profit. Thus, inone application of the present invention
in which the automotive core fulfillment system 10 is utilized by a
core supplier, the Demand and Pricing database 70 includes the
prices that the core supplier is willing to pay to the automotive
recyclers for the cores. That is the core value quoted is an offer
to purchase price. When the core supplier's offer to purchase price
is accepted by an automotive recycler, the core supplier makes a
profit after covering the costs of aggregation and inspection of
the cores and other services that the core supplier may provide. Of
course, in other applications, for example where the automotive
core fulfillment system 10 is utilized by a remanufacturer, the
Demand and Pricing database 70 includes the prices that the
remanufacturer is willing to pay directly to the automotive
recyclers for the cores, or similarly, a price that the
remanufacturer is willing to pay to a plurality of core
suppliers.
[0029] The automotive core fulfillment system 10 in accordance with
the present invention provides an output to the automotive recycler
6 that includes the "salvage value" for a particular vehicle input
into the system 10. The output identifies those cores of the
particular vehicle for which there is a demand, and an offer to
purchase price can be identified to purchase the identified parts
from the automotive recycler.
[0030] FIGS. 2A-2W show example user interface screens that are
generated by the automotive core fulfillment system 10 of FIG. 1.
The system logon page 200 is illustrated in FIG. 2A. On this logon
page 200, a user (such as automotive recycler 6) may access the
automotive core fulfillment system 10 by entering an email address
in a sign in block 202 and by entering a password in password block
204 by using terminal 4 via network 2. Users that have not
previously accessed the automotive core fulfillment system may
register to use the system by accessing a registration hotlink
206.
[0031] As shown in FIG. 2B, once a user (automotive recycler 6) has
accessed the automotive core fulfillment system 10, the interface
module 30 generates a start screen 220. The start screen 220
enables an automotive recycler 6 to interact with the automotive
core fulfillment system 10 by accessing demand and pricing
information for automotive cores by searching vehicles using button
221 and by searching by automotive core interchange numbers using
button 222. Start screen 220 also enables automotive recyclers 6 to
access in-progress inventory information using button 223, core bin
information using button 224, invoicing information using button
225, and additional system particulars, including system memos
using button 226, frequently asked questions using link 227,
contact information using link 228, the automotive core fulfillment
system manual using link 229, and shipping requirements using link
230. Additional information regarding the automotive core
fulfillment system of the present invention may also be shown and
accessed through additional buttons, hot links, and other user
interface devices that enable an automotive recycler 6 to access
the automotive core fulfillment system 10 using terminal 4 via
network 2.
[0032] Search by Vehicle
[0033] A user may search for automotive cores by a particular
vehicle. For example, if an automotive recycler 6 selects the
search vehicle button 221, a user input screen 240 as shown in FIG.
2C is generated by interface module 30 to allow the automotive
recycler 6 to enter vehicle information, including Year, Make, and
Model, into the automotive core fulfillment system 10 to access
core information. To access the core information, automotive
recycler 6 selects the Year the car was manufactured using drop
down box 242. In this example, the automotive recycler 6 selected
"1998." The user interface screen 240 shown is implemented using
drop down menu selections, but it may be implemented using an
expandable tree structure for such vehicle information, or in any
other appropriate manner that conveys the necessary information
with which to search the databases 40, 50, 70 of the automotive
core fulfillment system 10.
[0034] As shown in FIG. 2D, once the automotive recycler 6 selects
the Year the car was manufactured, the automotive recycler 6
selects the Make of car using drop down box 244. In this example,
the user selected "Honda." As further shown in FIG. 2E, once the
automotive recycler 6 selects the Make of car, the automotive
recycler 6 selects the Model of car using drop down box 246. In
this example, the automotive recycler 6 selects "Accord" as shown
in FIG. 2F.
[0035] FIG. 3 is a flow diagram 1100 that schematically illustrates
a method of operation in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention. Once the automotive recycler 6 has completed
selecting the Year, Make, and Model of car from which to base the
search, the automotive core fulfillment system 10 receives the
vehicle information as shown in step 1120 in the flow chart of FIG.
3. Of course, multiple vehicles may be used from which to base the
search and to identify multiple cores simultaneously. For example,
a list of vehicle identifiers may be used, such as a manual list, a
bar code or bar codes, an electronic YIN number or YIN numbers, or
any other notation of multiple vehicle vehicles. With this vehicle
identifier information, a core inventory value may be determined
based upon an aggregate total of core values of identified
automotive cores. Of course, other means of providing the vehicle
information may also be used, such as direct data feeds, RSS feeds
(RDF site summary feeds or Really Simple Syndication feeds), and
the like.
[0036] Regardless of the manner in which the vehicle information is
provided, in step 1120, automotive core fulfillment system 10
receives the vehicle information via interface module 30.
[0037] As further shown in step 1140 of FIG. 3, once the automotive
core fulfillment system 10 receives the vehicle information, the
processor 20 directs a search of the interchange database 40 to
identify the recycler's interchange number for the core or cores.
In step 1160, the interchange number matching module 60 and the
processor 20 match the recycler's interchange numbers from the
interchange database 40 to the core supplier numbers, such as the
OEM numbers in OEM Number database 50 in the present example.
[0038] In step 1200 of FIG. 3, interchange number matching module
60 and the processor 20 and identifies those cores for the inputted
vehicle (1988 Honda Accord) and processor 20 accesses demand and
pricing database 70 to further identify those cores for which there
is demand. The processor 20 and interface module 30 then identifies
the salvage value for the particular cores identified. Once the
cores and their respective demand and pricing information is
determined, in step 1220 of FIG. 3, the system returns a vehicle
evaluation page 250 that shows the part type 252, yard description
254, and core value 256 of the particular automotive core as
illustrated in FIG. 2G. Additionally, as shown in FIG. 3, if the
number and type of results identified are not satisfactory in step
1230, the search may be further refined to narrow down the number
and type of results returned using refinement tool search mechanism
234 as shown in step 1250. For example, the results may be refined
based upon engine displacement 258, the number of cylinders 260,
the transmission type 262, the number of doors 264, and the braking
system 266. Of course other factors may also be used to refine the
search, including drive type (front wheel versus rear wheel versus
all wheel), and the like. When the refinement tools are selected,
the search may be re-executed in step 1260 using the refine search
button 268. The results of the refined search will then be
presented as the vehicle evaluation page 250.
[0039] Vehicle evaluation page 250 lists automotive parts that the
core supplier wishes to purchase and the offer price that the core
supplier is willing to pay to a dismantler or to a recycler or to a
salvage yard for the particular part. The vehicle evaluation page
250 returns a list of parts with the part type 252 and a yard
description 254 with which to identify each core. The yard
description 254 may also include appropriate interchange numbers,
such as Hollander numbers or Lester numbers, and the like, as well
as OEM descriptions to help further determine the identity of each
part. Additionally, the core supplier may also provide additional
descriptive information with which to identify and confirm the
parts listed. Further, the listed parts may also include additional
description information requiring a Cast number or an OEM number on
the part in order for the part to be worth the core value listed.
For example, cast descriptions may be shown in bold face type,
while other information may be displayed in italics or within
parentheses or in any similar manner so as to identify the
notations in the yard description 254 field. The core value 256 is
listed for each part offered by the core recycler. Cores that have
no demand or no value to remanufacturers may be listed with a core
value of $0.00 as in the present example, or may be omitted from
the vehicle evaluation page 250. The core values help automotive
dismantlers determine if it is cost effective to remove particular
cores from the vehicle. Of course, vehicle evaluation page 250 may
display different interchange numbers, be arranged differently, and
provide additional information in other implementations of the
present invention.
[0040] As shown in FIG. 2H, automotive recycler 6 can select those
cores that the automotive recycler 6 wishes to remove from the
vehicle and sell to the core supplier by checking boxes 97a-97g.
The checked boxes 97a-97g correspond to those cores to be removed
from the vehicle and sold to the core supplier at the offered
purchase price displayed as core value 256. As further shown in
FIG. 2H, once the automotive recycler 6 checks the parts that they
wish to remove, the automotive recycler 6 may enter the stock
number 272, vehicle identification number (VIN) 274, a dismantler
276, any notes 278 or special instructions.
[0041] Optionally, the system of the present invention may also
include an optional button or hot link indicating or confirming
that by submitting this batch of core parts, the automotive
recycler 6 agrees to comply with any materials requirements
specified by the core supplier or any other shipping and exchange
policies that the core manufacturer has put in place.
[0042] Once the automotive recycler 6 completes these entries, the
automotive recycler 6 may select the Save Batch button 280 and
advance to the Vehicle Summary page 320 shown in FIG. 2I. The
Vehicle Summary page 320 is the list of material that the
automotive recycler 6 has chosen for removal from the vehicle in
question. The Vehicle Summary page 320 shows the batch 322, the
stock number 372, dismantler 376, and comments 378 for the year,
make, and model vehicle of interest. The Vehicle Summary page 320
further shows the part types 352, part descriptions 354, and the
core values 356 for each of the parts that the automotive recycler
6 selected with the check boxes 97a-97g on the vehicle evaluation
page 250. A total core value 358 is shown that is the sum of the
individual core values 356 for each of the parts listed.
[0043] From the Vehicle Summary page 320, an automotive recycler 6
may then view and print a dismantling report by selecting the print
dismantler report button 362. Similarly, a dismantler report may be
printed without core value prices by selecting the print dismantler
report (no prices) button 364. For example, by selecting print
dismantler reporter report button 362, the dismantling report 402
depicted in FIG. 2J may be viewed and printed and given to the
dismantler to ensure the appropriate parts are collected.
[0044] Similarly, returning to FIG. 2I, part tags may be printed to
attach to each of the parts as the vehicle is dismantled. The
dismantler may then attach tags to the parts as they are removed
from the vehicle. By selecting print tags button 368, the tag 404
depicted in FIG. 2K may be viewed and printed and then given to the
dismantler to attach to the removed part for inventory control.
[0045] The system and method of the present invention may use the
tags and tag printers of the automotive recycler 6 and may be
printed in a uniform format for ease of inventory control,
shipping, and payment upon receipt by the core supplier. Further, a
number of tag options may be presented to the automotive recycler 6
the first time that the automotive recycler 6 prints tags. The
options may then be saved as a default format with which to print
the tags to attach to the parts as the parts are removed from the
vehicles.
[0046] After the automotive recycler 6 prints the dismantling
report 402 and the tags 404, the automotive recycler 6 may then
begin dismantling the vehicle, add notes or memos to the system,
log out, or create additional reports on other vehicles and
parts.
[0047] Once the vehicle has been dismantled, and the dismantler has
returned the paperwork indicating which parts were actually
removed, the automotive recycler 6 may now add the removed parts to
the BIN inventory. The typical core supplier BIN is considered to
be a 48'' cube Gaylord box where all the tagged cores you remove
are placed. Of course, other bin types and shipping and storage
containers may also be used depending upon the typical shipments,
inventory values, and methods of transportation required.
[0048] To add the dismantled items to the BIN inventory, the
automotive recycler 6 must verify that the parts have been removed
from the vehicle. To verify that the parts have been removed, the
automotive recycler selects the In Progress tab 406, such as that
shown on FIG. 2L. FIG. 2L shows the In Process page 420 that lists
the in-progress vehicles by batch 422, (generated from stock number
272 entered on the vehicle evaluation page 250). The automotive
recycler 6 may then select the proper batch 422 and click on the
view link 424. Selecting the view link 424 returns the Vehicle
Summary page 320 for the particular vehicle.
[0049] As shown in FIG. 2L on the In Process page 420, the
in-progress batch includes an expiration date 426. To accommodate
constantly changing markets for core parts, the core supplier may
restrict the time that the automotive recycler 6 is afforded in
which to process a vehicle. In the example of FIG. 2L, the core
supplier allowed a 21-day window in which to process the vehicle.
If the automotive recycler 6 has not processed the vehicle within
the 21-day timeline, the view link 424 will change to a
"re-evaluate link" (not shown). If the automotive recycler 6
selects the re-evaluate link, the automotive recycler 6 will return
to the vehicle evaluation page 250. Any parts that were initially
chosen for removal will remain checked off on the vehicle
evaluation page 250, and the automotive recycler 6 must re-evaluate
the removal decisions based on any new market prices and demand, if
applicable. The automotive recycler 6 must then re-save the batch
with the new prices.
[0050] An overall dollar value is displayed for your entire "In
Progress" inventory. A total in-process value 458 is shown that is
the sum of the individual in-process batch totals 456 for each of
the batches listed. In the example of FIG. 2L, a single batch 422
is listed, so the total in-process value 458 is the same as that of
the single batch total 456. In this example, the total is
$135.00.
[0051] As outlined above, once the automotive recycler 6 selects
the view link 424 from the "In Progress" page 420, the "vehicle
summary" page 320 as shown in FIG. 21 is displayed. The automotive
recycler 6 then checks the boxes 390 indicating the parts that the
dismantler removed from the vehicle. Alternatively, if all
indicated parts were removed, the automotive recycler 6 may select
the check all box 392, indicating that the dismantler removed all
the parts.
[0052] Once the automobile recycler 6 verifies that parts were
removed and placed in the core supplier BIN, the automotive
recycler 6 selects the "Add to RAS Bin" button 398. By selecting
the "Add to RAS Bin" button 398, the checked parts are added to the
automotive recycler's BIN inventory. Once the selected parts are
added to the BIN inventory, the BIN screen 520 illustrated in FIG.
2M is displayed. As shown in FIG. 2M, the BIN screen 520 includes
an indication of the total dollar amount 522 of the automotive
recycler's inventory.
[0053] The BIN inventory is electronically monitored by the core
supplier. The system and method of the present invention permits
the core supplier to keep a running total of the number of parts
and the dollar value of the parts in the BIN inventory. The core
supplier contacts the automotive recycler 6 to schedule a materials
pick up when it appears that the automotive recycler 6 has enough
parts in the BIN inventory to warrant a shipment. Flexibility is
built into the system of the present invention, and if the
automotive recycler 6 has an inordinate volume of inventory, or an
inventory with a high dollar value, additional pick ups may be
scheduled through the BIN screen 520.
[0054] Once the Bin contents are confirmed, the automotive recycler
6 checks box 590 to select the created batch. Alternatively, the
automotive recycler 6 may check the check all button 592 to choose
all material currently in the BIN inventory. Once the appropriate
batches have been checked, the automotive recycler 6 selects the
"Create Invoice" button 594 to create an invoice 620 as shown in
FIG. 2N.
[0055] After invoice 620 is displayed, the automotive recycler 6
may review the invoice 620 and then confirm the invoice 620. To
ensure accuracy with in-transit inventory, the automotive recycler
6 confirms the accuracy of the invoice 620 before the material is
removed from inventory. To confirm the invoice 620, the automotive
recycler 6 selects the "confirm invoice" button 624. The process
then advances to the Invoice Detail page 720 as shown in FIG. 2O.
After creating an invoice 620, the inventory material is
electronically removed from the core supplier BIN, and the core
supplier is automatically notified electronically. The core
supplier then contacts the automotive recycler 6 with a Purchase
Order Number and arranges for shipping.
[0056] As shown in FIG. 2O, from the Invoice Detail page 720, the
automotive recycler 6 may print the invoice and/or a packing slip
by selecting the respective print buttons 724, 726. Selecting the
print invoice button 724 displays invoice 820 as shown in FIG. 2P,
while selecting print packing slip button 726 displays packing slip
830 as shown in FIG. 2Q. The invoice 820 and packing slip 830 may
then be included with the parts shipment or kept with the
automotive recycler's records. Once the Bins are shipped and the
materials arrive at the core supplier facility, the materials are
checked in using the appropriate stock number, invoice, and packing
slip. Upon completion of the check in, a reconciliation report and
payment is sent to the automotive recycler 6.
[0057] Search by Interchange Number
[0058] In addition to searching the automotive core fulfillment
system 10 by vehicle, an automotive recycler 6 may search by
interchange number, such as a Hollander number, a Lester number,
and the like.
[0059] For example, returning to start screen 220 shown in FIG. 2B,
a user (automotive recycler 6) may search for automotive cores by
searching by Hollander number. For example, if automotive recycler
6 selects the search by Hollander button 222, a user input screen
920 as shown in FIG. 2R is generated by interface module 30 to
allow an automotive recycler 6 to enter a part type and a Hollander
number into the automotive core fulfillment system to access core
information. Of course, other interchange information may be used
instead of Hollander numbers, but in the present example, an
interchange number search is illustrated using Hollander numbers.
To access the core information, a user selects the part type using
drop down box 942 and enters a Hollander number in box 944. As
shown in FIG. 2S, in this example the user selected "Steering
Gear/Rack" and Hollander number 1731. The user interface screens
920, 960 shown in FIG. 2R and FIG. 2S are implemented using drop
down menu selections, but they may be implemented using an
expandable tree structure for such vehicle information, or in any
other appropriate manner that conveys the necessary information
with which to search the databases 40, 50, 70 of the automotive
core fulfillment system 10.
[0060] Once the part type and interchange number are entered, the
automotive recycler 6 selects the Go box 962 in FIG. 2S, and the
system returns vehicle evaluation page 970 of FIG. 2T that shows
the part type 972, yard description 974, and core value 976 of the
particular automotive cores. As was the case when searching by
vehicle, vehicle evaluation page 970 lists automotive parts that
the core supplier wishes to purchase and the offer price that the
core supplier is willing to pay to a dismantler or to an automotive
recycler or to a salvage yard for the particular part. The vehicle
evaluation page 970 returns a list of parts with the part type 972
and a yard description 974 with which to identify each core. The
yard description 974 in this search may also include appropriate
OEM descriptions to help determine the identity of each part.
Additionally, the core supplier may also provide additional
descriptive information with which to identify and confirm the
parts listed. Further, the listed parts may also include additional
description information requiring a Cast number or an OEM number on
the part in order for the part to be worth the core value listed.
For example, cast descriptions may be shown in bold face type,
while other information may be displayed in italics or within
parentheses or in any similar manner so as to identify notations in
the yard description 974 field. The core value 976 is listed for
each part offered by the core recycler. As above, cores that have
no demand or no value to remanufacturers may be listed with a core
value of $0.00 or may be omitted from the vehicle evaluation page
970. The core values help automotive dismantlers determine if it is
cost effective to remove particular cores from the vehicle. Of
course, vehicle evaluation page 970 may display different part
types, descriptions, interchange numbers, and may be arranged
differently to provide additional information in other
implementations.
[0061] As shown in FIG. 2T, the automotive recycler 6 indicates the
parts that the automotive recycler 6 wishes to remove from the
vehicle and sell to the core supplier by checking box 997a. The
checked box 997a corresponds to that core to be removed from the
vehicle and sold to the core supplier at the offered purchase price
(core value 976) displayed. As further shown in FIG. 2T, once the
automotive recycler 6 checks the parts that they wish to remove,
the automotive recycler 6 may enter stock numbers 978a-978d and
save the batch by selecting the save batch button 975. Of course
additional information may also be added to the batch, including,
for example vehicle identification numbers (VINs), dismantler
information, and any notes or special instructions.
[0062] Optionally as above, the system of the present invention may
also include an optional button or hot link indicating or
confirming that by submitting this batch of core parts, the
automotive recycler agrees to comply with any materials handling
requirements specified by the core supplier or any other shipping
and exchange policies that the core manufacturer has put in
place.
[0063] Once the stock numbers 978a-978d are entered and the
automotive recycler 6 saves the batch by selecting the save batch
button 975, the batch results of the search will then be presented
as the vehicle summary page 980 shown in FIG. 2U. As was the case
above when searching by vehicle, the Vehicle Summary page 980 is
the list of material that the automotive recycler 6 has chosen for
removal from the vehicle in question. Similarly, the Vehicle
Summary page 980 shows the batch 982 and the listing of part types
984, part descriptions 986, and core values 992 as sorted by the
stock numbers 978a, 978b, 978c, 978d. A total core value 998 is
shown that is the sum of the individual core values 992 for each of
the parts listed.
[0064] Once the automotive recycler 6 reviews the vehicle summary
page 980, the process continues in a similar manner as was the case
outlined above with regard to FIG. 2I to FIG. 2Q when interacting
with the automotive core fulfillment system 10 of the present
invention by searching by vehicle.
[0065] Memos
[0066] In addition to searching the automotive core interchange
system 10 by vehicle or by interchange number, the automotive core
fulfillment system 10 includes the facility to review critical
system information by selecting the memos button 226 shown in FIG.
2B. When an automotive recycler 6 selects the memos button 226,
memos screen 150 is displayed as shown in FIG. 2V. Memos screen 150
includes example updates 152a, 152b, 152c, 152d, 152e to
information regarding the automotive core fulfillment system 10 and
the features and capabilities provided.
[0067] Manual
[0068] In addition to searching the automotive core fulfillment
system 10 by vehicle or by interchange number and accessing memos
regarding updates and other information, the automotive core
fulfillment system 10 includes the facility to review the
operations manual by selecting the manual button 229 shown in FIG.
2B. When an automotive recycler 6 selects the manual button 229,
the instruction manual screen 170 is displayed as shown in FIG. 2W.
Instruction manual screen 170 includes step-by-step instructions to
effectively utilize the automotive core fulfillment system 10 of
the present invention and provides a graphical foundation for
updates to information regarding the automotive core fulfillment
system 10 and the features and capabilities provided.
[0069] The automotive core fulfillment system 10 in accordance with
the illustrated embodiment as described above is invaluable to
automotive recyclers because it allows them to determine what the
cores of a particular vehicle and their core inventory is truly
worth, while also enabling them to have better control over labor
costs. As described, the present invention allows automotive
recyclers to control their labor costs because they will no longer
waste time removing core parts that have little or no value, and
can readily identify the core parts with value.
[0070] Moreover, the automotive core fulfillment system 10 in
accordance with the illustrated embodiments provides an especially
advantageous use in that it can be used during the dismantling
process before the vehicle is moved into storage, for example, in a
salvage yard, thereby allowing the automotive recycler 6 to remove
a wider range of cores that are of value. The system and method of
the present invention allows the automotive recycler 6 to make
quick determinations as to whether to invest in the labor required
to remove the particular automotive cores with value.
[0071] For example, a power brake booster core for a particular
vehicle model may be worth $15 based on current demand and pricing
information as provided by database 70. With the vehicle in the
dismantling facility of the automotive recycler, the removal of the
core with the available tools in the dismantling facility may only
be 5-10 minutes, thus, making it economically worthwhile to remove
the brake booster core. If the brake booster core has to be removed
while the vehicle is in the storage facility of the automotive
recycler, it may take much longer, for example, 15-20 minutes. Such
labor requirements would render the brake booster core not worth
removing.
[0072] While various embodiments in accordance with the present
invention have been shown and described, it is understood that the
invention is not limited thereto. The present invention may be
changed, modified and further applied by those skilled in the art.
Therefore, this invention is not limited to the detail shown and
described previously, but also includes all such changes and
modifications.
* * * * *