U.S. patent application number 16/531789 was filed with the patent office on 2020-03-26 for systems and methods for vehicle refueling.
This patent application is currently assigned to Powerbanq, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Powerbanq, LLC. Invention is credited to Newell H. Hill.
Application Number | 20200098036 16/531789 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 57205057 |
Filed Date | 2020-03-26 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20200098036 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Hill; Newell H. |
March 26, 2020 |
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR VEHICLE REFUELING
Abstract
The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for
replenishing the power source of a user vehicle. The system may
comprise at least one power source transport vehicle, the power
source transport vehicle having at least one power source
container; a vendor device; and a platform having at least a vendor
interface for display on the vendor device and a user interface for
display on a user device. The platform receives a user request
through the user interface regarding the user vehicle. The power
source transport vehicle is then deployed to the location of the
vehicle based on the user request and replenishes the power source
of the user vehicle based on the user request.
Inventors: |
Hill; Newell H.; (Belle
Plaine, MN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Powerbanq, LLC |
Minneapolis |
MN |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Powerbanq, LLC
Minneapolis
MN
|
Family ID: |
57205057 |
Appl. No.: |
16/531789 |
Filed: |
August 5, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15209934 |
Jul 14, 2016 |
10373238 |
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16531789 |
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15014836 |
Feb 3, 2016 |
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15209934 |
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62111782 |
Feb 4, 2015 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B67D 7/0498 20130101;
G06Q 50/06 20130101; B60L 53/80 20190201; G01C 21/3407 20130101;
B60L 53/35 20190201; B67D 7/04 20130101; G06Q 10/0631 20130101;
G06Q 30/0635 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 30/06 20060101
G06Q030/06; G01C 21/34 20060101 G01C021/34; B67D 7/04 20060101
B67D007/04; G06Q 50/06 20060101 G06Q050/06; G06Q 10/06 20060101
G06Q010/06; B60L 53/80 20060101 B60L053/80; B60L 53/35 20060101
B60L053/35 |
Claims
1-20. (canceled)
21. A method for replenishing a power source of a user vehicle,
comprising providing a platform having a user interface accessible
with a user device, and, using the platform: receiving a user
request for power source replenishment services for a user vehicle
at a first location; displaying information about the user request
on the user device; coordinating the user request with a power
source replenishment vendor; navigating the user vehicle to a
second location; navigating the user vehicle to a power source
replenishment station at the second location; and directing a
vendor at the second location to replenish an amount of power
source on the user vehicle from an amount of power source stored by
the vendor at the power source replenishment station.
22. The method of claim 21, wherein coordinating the user vehicle
from the first location to the second location comprises directing
the user vehicle to autonomously relocate itself to the second
location.
23. The method of claim 21, wherein navigating the user vehicle to
the power source replenishment station occurs upon arrival of the
user vehicle to the second location.
24. The method of claim 23, wherein navigating the user vehicle to
the power source replenishment station comprises directing the user
vehicle to autonomously relocate itself to the power source
replenishment station.
25. The method of claim 21, wherein coordinating the user vehicle
from the first location to the second location comprises directing
the user vehicle to autonomously relocate itself to the second
location.
26. The method of claim 21, wherein replenishing an amount of power
source is done automatically or semi-automatically.
27. The method of claim 21, wherein coordinating the user request
with a power source replenishment vendor and navigating the user
vehicle to a second location are done using an on-board navigation
system.
28. A method for replenishing a power source of a user vehicle,
comprising: providing a platform having a user interface accessible
via a user device and a vendor interface accessible via a vendor
device, the platform configured for coordinating a user request for
power replenishment with a vendor; and upon receiving a user
request for power replenishment, navigating the user vehicle to a
vendor location and navigating the user vehicle to a power source
replenishment station at the vendor location; wherein one of
navigating the user vehicle to the vendor location and navigating
the user vehicle to the power source replenishment station at the
vendor location is done autonomously.
29. The method of claim 28, wherein navigating the user vehicle is
done using an on-board navigation system.
30. The method of claim 28, wherein navigating the user vehicle to
a power replenishment station at the vendor location is done upon
arrival of the user vehicle at the vendor location.
31. The method of claim 28, wherein replenishing an amount of power
source of the user vehicle is done automatically or
semi-automatically.
32. The method of claim 28, wherein the user request may specify
one of multiple power source options.
33. A system for replenishing a power source of a user vehicle, the
system comprising: a power source replenishment station, the power
source replenishment station having a first power source container
for containing a first power source; a vendor device; and a
platform having a vendor interface for display on the vendor device
and a user interface for display on a user device, wherein the
platform receives a user request through the user interface
regarding the user vehicle and displays information regarding the
user request through the vendor interface; wherein the platform
coordinates the power source replenishment station and the user
vehicle to the same location and the power source of the user
vehicle is replenished from the first power source container based
on the user request.
34. The system of claim 33, wherein the first power source
comprises gasoline, diesel, bidiesel, ethanol, isobutanol,
methanol, butane, kerosene, propane, natural gas, synthetic fuels,
complex hydrides, hydrogen, hydrogen peroxide, or oxygen.
35. The system of claim 33, wherein the same location is a vendor
location and wherein the platform directs the user vehicle to
autonomously relocate itself to the power source replenishment
station at the vendor location upon arrival at the vendor
location.
36. The system of claim 33, wherein the power source replenishment
station is mobile.
37. The system of claim 36, wherein the first power source
container is removable from the power source replenishment
station.
38. The system of claim 37, further comprising a second power
source container that is removable from the power source
replenishment station, wherein the second power source container is
for containing a second power source.
39. The system of claim 33, wherein the platform coordinating the
power source replenishment station and the user vehicle to the same
location comprises the platform deploying the power source
replenishment station to a location of the user vehicle.
40. The system of claim 33, wherein the platform coordinating the
power source replenishment station and the user vehicle to the same
location comprises the platform directing the user vehicle to a
location of the power source replenishment station.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 15/209,934, filed on Jul. 14, 2016, which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
15/014,836, filed on Feb. 3, 2016, which claims the benefit of U.S.
provisional patent application Ser. No. 62/111,782, filed on Feb.
4, 2015, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by
reference herein in their entirety.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0002] The present application generally relates to fuel or power
sources of a vehicle. More particularly, the present application is
generally directed to systems and methods for managing and
replenishing fuel or power sources of a vehicle.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0003] Vehicles utilize various types of power sources to create
motion in order to transport passengers and/or cargo and/or perform
various types of services. Currently, most vehicles use a carbon
based fuel source to power an internal combustion engine. There is
an increasing percentage of vehicles that use an electric or other
non-carbon based power source. For all energy power sources, the
vehicle's power source will typically need to be replenished,
creating a potential inconvenience for the vehicle's user.
[0004] Carbon based fuels, such as gasoline, diesel, or ethanol,
are generally transported in at least one tank located within a
vehicle. The fuel in such a tank eventually needs to be replenished
periodically, usually within a 200-300 mile range. The common way
to replenish a tank has traditionally included stopping at a gas
station, parking by a pump station, removing the cap for the tank,
inserting a nozzle into the pipe for the tank, filling the tank,
placing the cap on the tank, and paying for the fuel. For safety
concerns, the driver of the vehicle is usually required to remain
by the vehicle for the duration of time needed to fill the tank.
Although most gas stations provide some type of roof that covers
the fuel pumps, a person who uses the pump may be exposed to
various weather elements, including extreme hot or cold
temperature, wind gusts, and other severe weather. Additionally,
during the filling process, fuel can be spilled and/or evaporated
into the air, subjecting a person to harmful chemical vapors. One
of these vapors is benzene, a known carcinogen. The present
disclosure helps a vehicle's user avoid such exposure to weather
conditions and/or harmful chemical vapors during a vehicle's power
source replenishment process.
[0005] Additionally, time is an increasingly valuable resource, and
services that help a person to be more efficient with his or her
time will reduce costs. Today, it is common for a vehicle user to
take time out of his or her day to replenish a vehicle's power
source. Often, there is more than one person that is present in the
vehicle when replenishing the fuel source, and, thus, this takes
the time of more than one person. For example, there may be a
working crew in the vehicle. In addition to the time expended,
there is depletion of the power source driving to the destination
to replenish the power source. The various embodiments of the
present disclosure reduce or eliminate the amount of user's time
and the consumption of power source required when there is a need
to replenish the power source. Further yet, with advancement in
autonomous driving and vehicle navigation systems, various
embodiments of the present disclosure describe a process and system
for the user vehicle to communicate and coordinate with a power
source replenishment source to replace, refill, or otherwise
replenish the vehicle power source supply.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The following presents a simplified summary of one or more
embodiments of the present disclosure in order to provide a basic
understanding of such embodiments. This summary is not an extensive
overview of all contemplated embodiments, and is intended to
neither identify key or critical elements of all embodiments, nor
delineate the scope of any or all embodiments.
[0007] The various embodiments of the present disclosure permit
vehicle users to use a phone, tablet, computer, vehicle console
modules, or other electronic device(s) to order or request a vendor
to come to the location of the user's vehicle and replenish the
power source for their vehicle. In many embodiments, the user does
not need to be in physical proximity to their vehicle. A vendor can
also perform basic repairs, maintenance and inspections on and for
the vehicle, deliver items purchased by the user, and perform
additional vehicle services.
[0008] In at least one embodiment, a system for replenishing a
power source of a user vehicle comprises at least one power source
transport vehicle, the power source transport vehicle having at
least one power source container; a vendor device; and a platform
having at least a vendor interface for display on the vendor device
and a user interface for display on a user device, wherein the
platform receives a user request through the user interface
regarding the user vehicle and displays information regarding the
user request through the vendor interface. A power source transport
vehicle is deployed to the location of the user vehicle and
replenishes the power source of the user vehicle based on the user
request. The power source may comprise at least one of gasoline,
diesel, biodiesel, ethanol, isobutanol, methanol, butane, kerosene,
propane, natural gas, synthetic fuels, complex hydrides, hydrogen,
hydrogen peroxide, and oxygen. The power source may be at least one
fuel cell. The power source may be at least one battery. The power
source transport vehicle may have removable power source
containers. The power source transport vehicle may have a first
removable power source container having a first power source and
the second removable power source container having a second power
source, wherein the second power source may be different than the
first. In at least one embodiment, the user request comprises power
source replenishment information and at least one maintenance
service. In at least one embodiment, the user request comprises at
least vehicle information, the location of the vehicle, and a power
source selection. The user request may be setup as a recurring, or
automatic, request. The user vehicle may have a power source
replenishment access point, and the power source transport vehicle
replenishes the power source at the power source access point. In
one embodiment, the power source replenishment access point
comprises at least one of a cap, cover, and protective panel. In
some embodiments, the power source replenishment access point has a
locking mechanism.
[0009] A method for replenishing a power source of a user vehicle
may, in some embodiments, comprise receiving a user request for
power source replenishment services for a user vehicle at a
location; displaying the user request on a vendor device associated
with a vendor vehicle; deploying the vendor vehicle to the
location; and replenishing an amount of power source on the user
vehicle from an amount of power source stored on the vendor
vehicle. In some embodiments, the method further comprises
displaying a confirmation that the user request has been fulfilled.
In some embodiments, the method comprises unlocking a locking
mechanism of a power source replenishment access point of the user
vehicle. In some embodiments, the user vehicle may use an onboard
computer to communicate with a power source replenishment station
in order to coordinate the replenishment of the vehicle power
source. In some embodiments, the user vehicle onboard navigation
system can assist the user and/or autonomously navigate the user's
vehicle to a replenishment station without direct input from the
user. In some embodiments, the user performs the power source
replenishment process. In some embodiments, the power source
replenishment process is performed by a person and/or mechanism(s)
located at the power source replenishment station.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0010] While the specification concludes with claims particularly
pointing out and distinctly claiming the subject matter that is
regarded as forming the various embodiments of the present
disclosure, it is believed that the invention will be better
understood from the following description taken in conjunction with
the accompanying Figures, in which:
[0011] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a system
for replenishing a power source for a user vehicle.
[0012] FIG. 2 is a flowchart of one embodiment of a method for
replenishing a power source for a user vehicle according to one or
more embodiments.
[0013] FIGS. 3A-3C are schematic diagrams of embodiments of power
source transport vehicles.
[0014] FIG. 4A is a plan view of one embodiment power source
transport vehicle.
[0015] FIG. 4B is a plan view of one embodiment power source
container for the power source transport vehicle of FIG. 4A.
[0016] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a power
source replenishment access point of a user vehicle.
[0017] FIG. 6 is a flowchart of one embodiment of a user
interface.
[0018] FIG. 7 is a schematic flowchart of one embodiment of a user
interface.
[0019] FIGS. 8-31 are views of screenshots of one embodiment of a
user interface as displayed on a user device.
[0020] FIG. 32 is a flowchart of one embodiment of a vendor
interface.
[0021] FIG. 33 is a flowchart of one embodiment of a vendor manager
interface.
[0022] FIG. 34 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a power
source replenishment station.
[0023] FIG. 35 is a schematic diagram of a tilt-bed truck for
transport of power source replenishment stations.
[0024] FIG. 36 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of
hydroponics and aquaponics systems incorporated into the design of
a power source replenishment station.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0025] The present disclosure relates to novel and advantageous
systems and methods for replenishing a power source for a vehicle.
Particularly, the present disclosure relates to novel and
advantageous systems for replenishing the power source in a user's
vehicle wherein the user uses an electronic device to request power
source replenishment with a vendor who uses a power source
transport vehicle to go to the location of the user's vehicle and
replenish the power source. The user requests the vendor to travel
to the location of the user's vehicle and replenish the power
source. The present disclosure also relates to systems for
replenishing the power source in a user's vehicle in which a
vehicle coordinates with an app and navigates via an on-board
navigation system to a power replenishment station, where it
receives power source replenishment. These novel systems reduce or
eliminate the time that the user would spend replenishing the power
supply. Because a vendor delivers the power source replenishment to
the user's vehicle and/or the vendor facilitates the navigation and
transportation of the user's vehicle to the power source
replenishment station, such systems have the potential to eliminate
the need for the user and/or the vehicle to travel or otherwise
have physical involvement with the power source replenishment
process.
[0026] Among standard dictionary definitions and uses of the term,
a "vehicle" may include a machine that is powered by a motor, jet
engine, or rocket propulsion and is used to carry at least one
person and/or goods from one place to another. Among standard
dictionary definitions and uses of the term, "vehicle" may also
include a machine that uses a motor, jet engine, or rocket
propulsion to transport itself, and while in transport, carry
people and/or goods from one place to another, and/or perform a
service. A power source may be used to run the motor, jet engine,
or rocket propulsion that in turn moves the vehicle on land, on
water, or in the air. Types of user vehicles include but are not
limited to: cars, trucks, SUVs, motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles,
other wheeled vehicles, boats, other water vessels, or aircraft,
including but not limited to fixed wing, rotor wing, and
lighter-than-air aircraft. In some embodiments, a user vehicle may
further include small engine devices, farm equipment, or other
motorized devices needing power source replenishment.
[0027] Among standard dictionary definitions and uses of the term,
a "power source" may include a product that fuels the motor, jet,
or rocket propulsion that moves the vehicle. For liquid power
sources, these are commonly different grades of gasoline, diesel,
biodiesel, and ethanol. Liquid power sources also include other
carbon based power sources such as isobutanol, methanol, butane,
kerosene, natural gas, and propane and other non-carbon based fuels
such as synthetic fuels, complex hydrides, hydrogen, hydrogen
peroxide, and oxygen. Battery power sources can have one or more
batteries that power the motor which moves the vehicle. Some
embodiments may use electrical power as the power source. Other
liquid, gas, or solid power source options may similarly be used in
a variety of vehicle designs, and are within the scope of the
present disclosure.
[0028] Another embodiment may use fuel cells as the power source.
Fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) are currently being developed to
significantly reduce dependence on oil, lower harmful emissions,
and increase efficiency and capabilities of user vehicles. FCVs
typically have a tank or container in the vehicle that stores
compressed hydrogen gas or liquid hydrogen. The FCVs typically have
a fuel cell stack that uses the hydrogen and oxygen in the air to
produce electricity to power an electric motor that propels the
vehicle. FCVs and corresponding power sources to be delivered by a
vendor are within the scope of the present disclosure. Although
fuel cells may be used to power the vehicle, fuel cells and micro
fuel cells may be used as a power source for other powered devices
such as phones, tablets, and chargers. Replenishing power source
for these devices is within the scope of the present disclosure. In
one embodiment, such other devices may be operably coupled or
connected with a FCV and replenish its fuel or compressed gas via
its connection with the FCV and the FCV's corresponding fuel
source.
[0029] A vendor may include a company, private party, or other
person or entity that agrees to contract terms in relation to
services or products provided to the user of a vehicle that are
requested by a user. In some embodiments, a vendor may provide
services and/or products to the user when requested by the user
that are described in this disclosure. In some embodiments, a
vendor may additionally provide related or unrelated services
and/or products to the user other than or different from services
request through various embodiments of the present disclosure. For
example, a vendor may be an existing gas service station that does
the typical work done by a gas service station and also provides
services when requested by the user. A vendor may be an automobile
dealership that does the typical work done by an automobile
dealership and also provides services when requested by the user. A
vendor may be an automobile body or engine repair shop that does
the typical work done by a vehicle body or engine repair shop and
also provides services when requested by the user. In general, a
vendor may be a private party, business, or other person or entity
that may or may not provide other services while providing services
and/or products that are requested by the user as described in this
disclosure.
[0030] FIG. 1 shows one embodiment of a power source replenishment
system 100 of the present disclosure. As shown, power source
replenishment system 100 comprises a platform or "app" (as defined
further herein) 102, a network 103, at least one vendor device 104
associated with at least one vendor vehicle 106 or at least one
power source replenishment station 101, and at least one user
device 108 associated with at least one user vehicle 110. The
platform 102 accessible via the network 103 by the at least one
user device 108 and the at least one vendor device 104. The
platform 102 comprises a vendor interface that may be displayed on
the vendor device 104. The platform 102 further comprises a user
interface that may be displayed on the user device 108. A user may
make a request for power source replenishment for one or more of
the user vehicles 110 via the user interface displayed on the user
device 108. Information regarding the user's request for power
source replenishment is then transmitted by the platform to at
least one vendor device 104 associated with at least one vendor
vehicle 110. The vendor interface displays information regarding
the user's request for power source replenishment, and the vendor
vehicle 106 may then be deployed to a location of the user vehicle
110 to fulfill the request for replenishment.
[0031] FIG. 2 shows one embodiment of a method 200 of replenishing
a power source of user vehicle. In at least the embodiment shown in
FIG. 2, the method 200 may comprise, as shown at step 202,
receiving a user request for power source replenishment services
for a user vehicle. At step 204, the user request may be displayed
on a vendor device, which may be associated or in communication
with a vendor vehicle 110 or a power source replenishment station
101. The user request may be displayed via the vendor interface. In
at least one embodiment, the user request may be displayed on one
or more vendor devices and a vendor may accept the user request
prior to deploying a power source transport vehicle to the user
vehicle's location. In some embodiments, the user request may only
be displayed on a vendor device of a selected vendor. In some
embodiments, the user request may only be displayed on a vendor
device based on the location of the vendor device relative to the
location of the user vehicle. In some embodiments, the user request
may be displayed on a vendor device that coordinates the
transportation and/or navigation of the user vehicle to a power
source replenishment station based on, for example, factors that
may include, but are not limited to, station proximity, power
source price, and station capacity. Next, power source delivery may
be completed by deploying a vendor vehicle to the location of the
user vehicle 206 or alternatively, by user vehicle transportation,
such as under control of the user or autonomously or
semi-autonomously using a suitable navigation and/or guidance
system, to a power source replenishment station 205. At step 208,
at least a portion of the power source on the user vehicle is
replenished with an amount of power source stored on the power
source transport vehicle or power source replenishment station. At
step 210, the vendor confirms that the request has been fulfilled
and the user pays an amount based at least in part on the amount of
power source used to replenish the power source. In any embodiment,
"replenishment" of the power source may mean filling a power source
reserve on a user vehicle to its capacity (in other words, until
the power source reserve is full once again) or only replacing a
portion of the capacity of the power source reserve (in other
words, an amount more than an initial amount but less than full
capacity of the power source reserve). Replenishment may also mean
the provision of at least one unit of power source.
[0032] A request for power source replenishment can be made by any
suitable method including, but not limited to, speaking on a
telephone or using a telephone, computer, tablet, vehicle console
module, or other device to email, text, or otherwise communicate
using some form of electronic messaging method without using what
has been commonly referred to as an "app." The request for fuel
source replenishment can also be made via an "app" or other
software application that is stored or executed on a telephone,
computer, tablet, vehicle console module, or other device. In some
embodiments, the "app" or other software application may be,
alternately or additionally, accessed by the device via a network.
The request for fuel source replenishment can also be made via a
vehicle console module or, for example, a location detection,
remote unlocking, and/or reporting device located on the vehicle.
The "app" may be a software tool that facilitates the communication
between a user and a vendor. The vehicle console module may be a
computer that is installed in the vehicle. The location detection,
remote unlocking, and/or reporting device may be installed on a
vehicle by, for example, connecting it to a power source within a
vehicle, powered through a battery, inserted into an outlet, or
plugged into the On Board Diagnostics (OBD) port located within the
vehicle. The communication between the user and vender can use any
combination of electronic devices and any combination of a speaking
voice, email, text, fax, electronic messaging method, "app," or the
like.
[0033] A vendor's power source transport vehicle and/or the power
source replenishment station may use portable containers, tanks or
commercial industrial holding tanks affixed to a vehicle frame or
building structure, electrical charge capacitors, gas cylinders, or
any other type of container, permanent, semi-permanent, or
temporary, or other transport system usable or configured to
replace, replenish, and/or supplement the user's vehicle power
source. Power source reserves can be replenished through the use of
hoses, nozzles, tanks, electrical cords, and/or other supplies or
tools, which may in some embodiments depend on the power
source.
[0034] The vendor's power source transport vehicle may be a vehicle
that travels on land, water, or in the air. The vendor's power
source transport vehicle may be manned or unmanned, controlled
inside the vehicle, or remotely, or may have automatic onboard
vehicle navigation and/or control systems. The vendor's power
source transport vehicle may include, but are not limited to: cars,
trucks, SUV's, vans, trains, pontoon boats, cruiser boats, other
water vessels, and aircraft, including but not limited to, drones,
blimps, balloons, fixed wing aircraft, rotor blade aircraft, and
other aircraft. Vendor's power source transport vehicle may also
utilize one or more trailers, or other detachable units, used to
increase power replenishment capabilities and/or to increase
ability to transport other products or to aid the vendor in
servicing user vehicles.
[0035] FIGS. 3A-3C show embodiments of power source transport
vehicles 300. As shown in these embodiments, power source transport
vehicles 300 may comprise at least one power source container 302
and a transfer assembly 304 for transferring the power source from
the power source container 302 to the user vehicle. As shown in
FIGS. 3A-3C, the transfer assembly 304 may comprise a nozzle 306
and a hose 308 connected to the nozzle 306 and the container 302.
In at least one embodiment, the hose 308 may be provided with
quick-disconnect connections. The power source transport vehicle
300 may have one power source container 302 as shown in FIG. 3A, or
as shown in FIGS. 3B-3C the power source transport vehicle 300 may
have multiple power source containers 302. Each power source
container 302 may have a transfer assembly 304 or one transfer
assembly 304 may be used for all power source containers 302. In at
least one embodiment, the power source containers 302 are fixed to
the power source transport vehicle 300. Each power source container
302 could carry a different power source or fuel type from any
other power source container 302. In at least the embodiments shown
in FIGS. 3A and 3C, the power source transport vehicle 300 may have
a storage area 310 for storing items requested by the user as part
of replenishment request, as will be discussed later in this
disclosure. In some embodiments, the power source transport vehicle
300 may further comprise a trailer 312 to provide additional
transport capacity for power source containers and/or additional
storage space. FIGS. 4A-4B show an embodiment of the power source
transport vehicle 400 that has a removable power source container
402. As shown in FIG. 4A, power source transport vehicle 400
comprises a plurality of removable power source containers 402,
which in some embodiments may contain different types of power
sources or grades of fuel. In some embodiments, the removable power
source container may be or carry a battery. In at least one
embodiment, removable power source containers 402 allows for
portability, for more efficient replacement of power source
containers on the power source transport vehicle 400, and/or for
flexibility in the availability of power source types and fuel
grades on a power source transport vehicle 400. Each power source
container 402 as shown may comprise its own transfer assembly 404,
which in at least the embodiment shown comprises a nozzle 406 and
hose 408. As shown in FIG. 4B, the container 402 may comprise one
or more attachment features 414 that engage with features such as
the sides of a truck bed on the power source transport vehicle. As
shown at least in the embodiment of FIG. 4B, the attachment
features 414 comprises recesses that allow the power source
container to rest on the sides of the truck bed securely.
[0036] For vehicles where the power source is gasoline, diesel,
biodiesel, ethanol, isobutanol, methanol, butane, kerosene,
propane, natural gas, synthetic fuels, complex hydrides, hydrogen,
hydrogen peroxide, and oxygen, a vendor may travel to the location
of a user's vehicle and transfer fuel from a vendor container to
the user's vehicle. In some embodiments, the power source transport
vehicle may leave a power source replenishment unit with the user's
vehicle during the power source replenishment process and retrieve
it at a later time after the power source has reached full
capacity.
[0037] For vehicles where the power source replenishment is a
battery, a vendor may travel to the location of the user's vehicle
and either recharge or replace the battery. In some embodiments,
the power source transport vehicle may leave a power source
replenishment unit with the user's vehicle during the power source
replenishment process and retrieve it at a later time after the
battery has reached full capacity. The vendor may alternatively
exchange a depleted battery with a full capacity battery. In some
embodiments, the vendor may exchange batteries using a crane,
hydraulic lift, hoist, dolly, or other lifting or transportation
equipment.
[0038] For vehicles where the power source includes fuel cells, a
vendor may travel to the location of the user's vehicle where the
vendor may recharge and/or replace the cells as needed. In some
embodiments, the vendor may travel to the location of the user's
vehicle where the vendor may recharge and/or replace the tank of
compressed hydrogen or other gas. The vendor may use portable tanks
or commercial industrial holding tanks affixed to a vehicle frame,
electrical charge capacitors, gas cylinders, or any other type of
container or transport system usable or configured to replace,
replenish, and/or supplement the user's cells and/or compressed
gas. Power source reserves may be replenished through the use of
hoses, nozzles, tanks, electrical cords, and/or other supplies and
tools. In some embodiments, the power source transport vehicle may
leave a power source replenishment unit with the user's vehicle
during the power source replenishment process and retrieve it at a
later time after the power source has reached full capacity. The
vendor may, alternatively, exchange a depleted power source with a
full capacity power source using a crane, hydraulic lift, hoist,
dolly, or other lifting or transportation equipment.
[0039] Among standard dictionary definitions and uses of the term,
a "power source replenishment access point" may include the
specific area on a vehicle where the replenishment power source is
input into the vehicle. This area usually has a cap, cover, or
panel that covers the area that may be moved or removed prior to
adding the replenishment power source. In some cases, the cap,
cover, or panel is not locked and in some cases, it can be locked.
If locked, a locking mechanism usually can be unlocked from inside
the vehicle. In some cases, mechanisms may need to be unlocked at
the power source replenishment access point. FIG. 5 shows an
embodiment of the power source replenishment access point 500 on a
user vehicle. The cover 502 may be removed to expose a cap 504. In
some embodiments, a completion tag 510 may be provided that
visually indicates to a user that the power source has been
replenished. In some embodiments, the completion tag 510 may be
secured by at least one of a cap, cover, and/or panel of the power
source replenishment access point 500. In at least the embodiment
shown in FIG. 5, the completion tag 510 comprises a first portion
512 that surrounds a portion of the cap 504 and a second portion
514 that extends over and edge the cover 502. When the cover 502
has been replaced following replenishment of the power source, the
completion tag 510 is visible. In some embodiments, as discussed
further herein, the user may order goods or services in addition to
replenishment of the power source. In at least one embodiment, the
provided goods (shown generally at 518) may be deposited in a
container 520 such as a bag. Container 520 may comprise a handle
522 or other feature capable of surrounding at least a portion of
the cap 504, as shown in FIG. 5. Therefore the container 520 may be
retained by the cover 502 once the cover is replaced, and the goods
can be provided securely without the vendor entering the user
vehicle.
[0040] In some embodiments, power source replenishment may take
place when the user vehicle coordinates with an app to, via
navigation by an on-board navigation system, drive, fly, or
navigate via waterway to a "power source replenishment station" and
receive power source replenishment. Among standard dictionary
definitions and uses of the term, a "power source replenishment
station" may include a physical location where power source
replenishment for user vehicles occurs. These stations may be
either mobile or placed in a fixed, more or less permanent or
semi-permanent location. The power source replenishment station may
have landing zones for aerial user vehicles, as shown by top view
3401 in FIG. 34, docking stations for water vessel user vehicles,
or parking zones for ground transport user vehicles. Vendors may
use these stations in lieu of or in concert with power source
replenishment transport vehicles to provide power source
replenishment to a user vehicle.
[0041] In some embodiments, power source replenishment stations may
consist of one or more enclosed, self-contained "units." Each unit
may be similar or perform different functions. In one embodiment,
one unit provides power source refueling capability and another
unit is used for power source storage. Units may utilize recycled
shipping containers (ISO), or some other method or material to
enclose station mechanics. Power source replenishment units may be
transported using a specialized tilt truck shown by FIG. 35, or
some other means. Specialized tilt trucks may consist of open-back
truck 3501 with power-assisted or manual tilt mechanism 3503, which
allows for easier loading and unloading of power source
replenishment unit 3502. Units may be placed in a fixed, more or
less permanent location, or moved more regularly to accommodate
user demand, need, and power source replenishment efficiency. The
power source replenishment unit may be placed in traditional
locations such as gas station parking lots, or in less traditional
places such as mall, park, or commercial parking lots, rest stops,
streets, or other public or private spaces. Units may be partially
or completely submerged below ground, or integrated into the
environment, or left completely exposed.
[0042] In some embodiments, power source replenishment of the user
vehicle at the power source replenishment station may be performed
by a person acting on behalf of the vendor. In some embodiments,
power source replenishment of the user vehicle at the power source
replenishment station may be performed by the user. In other
embodiments, the power source replenishment of the user vehicle may
be performed automatically or semi-automatically by the power
source replenishment station using robotics or some other
mechanical method 3402 shown in FIG. 34. In still other
embodiments, the transfer of the power source to the user vehicle
may occur using methods used by the vendor power source transport
vehicle.
[0043] In some embodiments, the power source replenishment station
may include a power generation plant which provides full or partial
power for station power source demands. Local power generation
allows the power source replenishment station to exist completely
autonomously, without the need for an outside or exterior power
source. In some embodiments, the power generation plant supplies
power from the power source supplied to vehicles or from
environmental resources such as wind, tidal, solar, or geothermal.
The power generation plant may include, but is not limited to: a
diesel, gas, or natural gas engine, battery, fuel cell, solar
panels, wind turbines, or a geothermal power plant. In some
embodiments, the power source replenishment station may convert
water to hydrogen, through electrolysis or some other acceptable
means, in order to supplement and/or supply hydrogen as a power
source for user vehicles. In some embodiments, a vendor transport
vehicle may fill its power source replenishment reserves at a power
source replenishment station, allowing it to continue providing
power source replenishment to user vehicles.
[0044] In some embodiments, the power source replenishment station
may produce by-products which may be used in other applications. In
some embodiments, the power source replenishment station may obtain
water as a by-product as part of the exhaust from on-board fuel
cells and/or as part of the user vehicle replenishment process,
and/or as a delivery to the power source replenishment station by
the vendor and/or some other source, in order to sustain aquaponics
and/or hydroponics systems. These hydroponics and aquaponics
systems may be coupled with power source replenishment systems to
harvest fish, fruits, and/or vegetables for human and/or animal
consumption, as shown in FIG. 36. In some embodiments, plants may
grow on side 3602 and/or the base of power source replenishment
station 3601 and/or in additional grow bed 3603, each of which may
be incorporated into the power source replenishment station design
and configuration.
[0045] In any embodiment, the vendor may also perform services that
are recommended or required as part of the fuel replenishment
process, such as, but not limited to, cleaning, flushing, and
replacement of components, or other preventive maintenance and
repairs of the power source system.
[0046] After power source replenishment has been ordered or
generally at the same time as it is ordered, or during a separate
order made without requesting power source replenishment, the user
may request one or more convenience or maintenance services or
products from a vendor. Some services offered may include, but are
not limited to: an oil change, snow and ice removal from windows
and windshields, exterior and interior cleaning, removing trash
from the vehicle, vehicle inspections, starting vehicles to warm
them up in cold weather, battery jumps, washer fluid replenishment,
engine coolant replenishment, transmission fluid replenishment, air
filter replacement, tire pressure checks and inflation service,
windshield chip repair, wiper blade replacement, dent repair, paint
repair, other detailing instances, and other minor maintenance
prevention and/or repair services. Some products offered by a
vendor that can be placed inside a user's vehicle or at some other
suitable location, may include, but are not limited to items such
as cold or hot water, coffee, tea, hot chocolate, coffee or other
drinks, frozen or non-frozen trays of food, snacks, pastries,
newspapers, personal hygiene products, air fresheners, and vehicle
related products such as oil, window wipers, wiper fluid, etc. In
one embodiment, a vehicle may have a fluid tank, container, vessel,
or other receptacle for receiving water or other fluids that may be
replenished during fulfillment of a user request.
[0047] In at least one embodiment, the user's telephone, computer,
tablet, or other device may have GPS technology to generally easily
locate the user vehicle. Likewise, the user vehicle console module
or a location detection, remote unlocking, and/or reporting device
may have GPS technology to generally easily locate the user's
vehicle. A location detection, remote unlocking, and/or reporting
device may also have the ability to unlock the user vehicle and/or
the power source replenishment access point, and may have user
vehicle reporting capability. In another embodiment, the user can
create settings for when, where, and how often the GPS location
coordinates for the user vehicle are shared by or on all devices
that have GPS technology. In some embodiments, location detection
technology and navigation or guidance software may be used to
facilitate the transportation of a user vehicle to and from an
appropriate power source replenishment station.
[0048] Software may be added to the vehicle console module and/or
to a location detection, remote unlocking, and/or reporting device
to provide information on the amount of power source in the
vehicle, the percent of full capacity of the power source that this
represents, and/or the number of miles and/or time that the user
can drive before the power source is fully depleted. The vehicle
console module and/or the location detection, remote unlocking,
and/or reporting device may alternatively or additionally provide
other information about the power source of the vehicle and may
send alerts, reminders, odometer readings, vehicle error codes, or
other reports to the user and/or vendor regarding vehicle repairs
or maintenance recommended or needed.
[0049] An "app" or application of the present disclosure, in one
embodiment, may be stored on, executed on, and/or accessed from a
telephone, computer, tablet, vehicle console module, location
detection, remote unlocking and/or reporting device, or other
electronic device. The "app" or application may be accessible over
a computer network, such as the worldwide web. The term "platform"
is used herein to refer to any of the various formats by which a
user may interact with a vendor. Not all embodiments of features
available on one platform may be available in the same form on
another platform, such as on the Internet. In some embodiments, a
user may input information that can be stored by the platform and,
in some cases, only needs to be input once. In some embodiments, a
platform can be programmed to receive input of information by
selecting from a menu of options, drop down boxes, and/or icons in
order to reduce the amount of information requiring typed entry.
The platform or "app" may have a user interface and/or a vendor
interface.
[0050] In one embodiment, the user may input vehicle identifying
information for at least one vehicle. For instance, the user may
input the year, make, model, tail number, registration number,
and/or license plate of the at least one vehicle. In some
embodiments, the user may input information regarding the vehicle
replenishment point, such as, but not limited to, whether the
vehicle replenishment point has a fuel tank cap, cover, and/or
panel lock, whether the vehicle replenishment point has a lock
and/or how to unlock it, and other details on how to access the
replenishment point. In at least one embodiment, information
regarding the vehicle replenishment point may be automatically
retrieved based on the vehicle identifying information. In some
embodiments, the user may input power source information, which may
include, but is not limited to, the power source type, fuel grade,
fuel concentration, or fuel type. In at least one embodiment, the
power source information may be automatically retrieved based on
the vehicle identifying information. If a vehicle uses batteries as
the power source, the user may select options regarding the
recharge and/or replacement process and/or charge rate. If the
vehicle requires another type of power source, the user may select
specific options related to the type of power source.
[0051] In one embodiment, the user vehicles are identified by year,
make, and/or model. When the user selects one of the user vehicles
listed, options for power source replenishment types may be
displayed to the user. The user may then select one of the options
for power source replenishment, including replenishment by both
vendor transport vehicles and navigation to a power source
replenishment station. In at least one embodiment, the user may
then select a specific day and time for the service. In at least
one embodiment, the user may select that the service should be a
recurring event. When a vehicle occupies a certain area or "zone",
the user may be able to select immediate or urgent replenishment.
In some embodiments, the user may select the recurring service to
replenish the power source based on any other suitable
characteristic of the vehicle and/or power source. In one
embodiment, the user can also request via the "app" or platform to
have the replenishment take place on a periodic basis that
specifies the day or days of the week and the time(s) of day and
the location of the vehicle for replenishment. The periodic basis
could be daily, weekly, monthly, biweekly, bimonthly, etc. This
type of replenishment may be most applicable to vehicles that park
at a specific location on a predictable schedule, however, such is
not a requirement. Replenishment may also be selected to
automatically occur based on any other suitable characteristic of
the vehicle and/or power source such as, but not limited to, when
power source reserves reach a specific percentage of total power
source capacity.
[0052] Once the user has input the information into the platform,
an order page may summarize the order. The order page may ask the
user to confirm the user's selections. After the user has confirmed
the order, a confirmation page may appear to confirm the order. The
confirmation page may also remind the user to leave the power
source replenishment cover, cap and/or panel open, accessible,
and/or unlocked if the vendor does not have the ability to unlock
the replenishment access point. The confirmation page may also
remind the user to leave the vehicle unlocked if the vendor needs
to get inside of the vehicle and the vendor does not have the
ability to unlock and access the inside of the vehicle.
[0053] A suitable vendor, or one of its agents, may then be
dispatched via the platform to deliver the requested services
and/or products. Any products purchased may be placed in the
vehicle, in an appropriate container, whether insulated and/or
climate controlled, in a bag or box, tank or other suitable vessel
and/or located in a convenient and/or appropriate location for
access and/or use. A vendor may measure the amount of power source
replenishment provided to user via a gauge, meter, voltage reader,
scale, or some other industry approved means to accurately measure
the power source quantity. After the power source has been
replenished and/or replaced and the delivery of any other products
and services have been completed, the vendor may complete an
invoice showing, for example, vehicle identification information,
time and location of delivery, and the costs of supplies and labor.
The user may request that this invoice be sent via message within
the platform, via hard copy sent in the US mail, via fax, via
email, via text, or via another suitable electronic form. In one
embodiment, a tag, receipt, or paper slip may be left protruding
from the power source replenishment access point cap, cover, and/or
panel, or windshield, or vehicle door, or left in some other
suitable location in order to remind and provide notice to the user
that service has been completed.
[0054] In some embodiments, the platform may have a messaging
feature, which is capable of sending and receiving messages to the
vendor, such as to power source transport vehicle drivers and/or
other employees of the vendor. Drivers may send messages to a user
regarding, but not limited to: details about the service completed,
vehicle condition and/or location, weather conditions, and/or other
conditions or situations within the local environment. On board
diagnostic code errors, routine maintenance recommendations, or
reminders for the vehicle may be communicated via messages to a
user, vehicle manufacturer, and/or vehicle mechanic. A user may
have the option to have messages shared via text messages, sent via
email, and/or sent via other electronic forms.
[0055] FIG. 6 shows one embodiment of a user interface 600 for the
platform. User interface 600 may comprise a login screen 602, and
once the user logs in with user credentials, a home screen 604 may
be displayed. From the home screen 604, the user may select from a
number of options, which may include, but are not limited to,
managing vehicle information as shown at 606, placing an on-demand
request for power source replenishment as shown at 608, creating or
editing an automatic or scheduled request for power source
replenishment as shown at 610, retrieving information regarding
payment as shown at 612, and/or review or manage rewards
information as shown at 614. When placing the on-demand request as
shown at 608, the user may at least select from power source
options for the request, as shown at 616, and/or select other
products or services to be performed by the vendor, as shown at
618. When placing the automatic request as shown at 610, the user
may select from power source settings for the automatic request, as
shown at 620, and/or select other products or services to be
performed by the vendor, as shown at 622. The user may retrieve
payment information as shown at 612, which may provide the user
with the ability to update payment information or payment options
as shown at 624. The user may also be able to retrieve receipts
from completed on-demand requests and/or automatic requests, as
shown at 626.
[0056] In some embodiments, the user may review or manage rewards
information, as shown at 614. The user interface may have a
"rewards" tab, which may show a user's earned rewards, progress
towards earning a reward, and/or information about how to earn
rewards or other related information. For example, in some
embodiments, a reward may be issued such that for a first number of
gallons or units of power source purchased by a user, a second
number of gallons or units of power source are donated to persons
or nonprofit organizations within the community. Alternatively, or
additionally, in some embodiments, a reward may be issued such that
for a first number of gallons or units of power source purchased by
a user, a second number of gallons or units of power source are
donated to a low income family. Alternatively, or additionally, in
some embodiments, a reward for a particular number of gallons or
units of power source purchased, a number of gallons or units may
be provided to the user at no cost. These rewards are provided as
examples of rewards that may be available, and there are other
rewards which are contemplated and within the scope of the present
disclosure.
[0057] FIG. 7 shows another embodiment of a user interface 700 for
the platform. User interface 700 may comprise a login screen 702,
and once the user logs in with user credentials, a home screen 704
may be displayed. From the home screen 704, the user select from a
number of options, which may include, but are not limited to
profile information, rewards information, maps, policy or legal
information, order history information, messaging, or contact
information. At least one option is an option to place a user
request for a replenishment service. To place a user request, the
user may select a vehicle from a vehicle screen 706. The user may
place an automatic or recurring user request as shown at 708 or an
on-demand user request as shown at 710. When placing the user
request, a map of the vehicle's location may be displayed to the
user. In some embodiments, if the vehicle's location is within
range of one of the vendor's power source transport vehicles (or
within the "zone"), the user may select an on-demand user request,
as shown at 710, schedule a future request, or set up an automatic
request. If the vehicle's location is not within range of one of
the vendor's power source transport vehicles (or within the
"zone"), in some embodiments, the user may only be able to schedule
a future request or set up an automatic request, as shown at 708,
712. In some embodiments, a power source transport vehicle may only
be assigned to a user request if it is within range, in other words
that the power source transport vehicle is within a certain
distance of the location of the user vehicle. When placing a
scheduled request or an automatic request, as shown at 712, the
user may set up the frequency of the request, the time of the
request, and may select from power source options for the request.
In some embodiments, the user may select other products or services
to be performed by the vendor. When placing the on-demand request
as shown at 710, the user may also select from power source
options, as shown at 714. The user may also select other products
or services to be performed by the vendor, as shown at 716. The
user may receive confirmation that the order was placed as shown at
718. In some embodiments, the platform may send a reminder to the
user to release the locking mechanism for the power source
replenishment access point or to leave the cap or cover open. In
some embodiments, the user may receive confirmation that the power
source was replenished, which may include the amount of power
source deposited, as shown at 722.
[0058] If the user vehicle does not have a locking mechanism for
the power source replenishment access point, the access point may
typically be accessible and the vendor can readily open the access
point and replenish the power source. If the vehicle has a locking
mechanism for the power source replenishment access point and it
can be unlocked from within the vehicle, there are different ways
to give the vendor access to the inside of the vehicle. One way is
for the user to ensure that the vehicle is unlocked at the time of
the replenishment. Another way is that the user may give the vendor
information on where a remote unlocking device for the vehicle is
located, and the vendor may access the remote unlocking device to
unlock the vehicle. Another way is that the user can allow the
vendor to integrate vendor software into the vehicle console module
to be able to unlock the vehicle. Another way is for the vendor to
attach a location detection, remote unlocking, and/or reporting
device to the vehicle to be able to unlock the vehicle and/or the
power source replenishment access point.
[0059] FIGS. 8-31 show another embodiment of the user interface
800. FIG. 8 shows a login screen 802 that may allow a new user to
sign up to use the replenishment service as shown at 803. FIG. 9
shows an embodiment of a signup screen 902, where the user may
input user identifying information as shown generally at 904. This
user identifying information may include name, phone number, email
address, username and/or a password. The user may confirm the
information by selecting the signup option at 906.
[0060] FIG. 10 shows one embodiment of a home screen 1002 for the
user interface 800, which has a menu feature 1004 and an order
feature 1006 for setting an on-demand replenishment order, an
automatic replenishment order, and/or a scheduled replenishment
order. FIG. 11 shows the home screen 1002 with the menu feature
1004 expanded to show a number of tabs 1006. In at least one
embodiment, the user vehicles may be listed on the home screen, and
in one embodiment, the vehicles are listed at the bottom of the
home screen. The user interface may have one or more tabs 1106 that
divide or format the various types of information for effective
communication between the user and vendor. As shown in FIG. 11, the
menu feature 1004 includes a "profile" tab 1108, a "payment" tab
1110, an "order" tab 1112, a "support" tab 1114, and an "about" tab
1116. Other tabs may be included to categorize, divide, or format
information for effective communication and display of information
to the user. Each of these tabs, when selected by a user, may
display information to the user. In at least one embodiment, the
platform may have a "map" tab. The "map" tab may provide
information for one or more vehicles regarding past or present
location, at least one past power source replenishment location,
and/or vehicle travel path information.
[0061] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12, the user interface
800 may have a profile screen 1202, which may be accessed by the
user by selecting the "profile" tab 1108 shown in FIG. 11. In at
least one embodiment, the profile screen 1202 displays at least one
of profile information 1203 and location information 1204. The
profile screen 1202, for example, may display profile information
1203 that the user may input and/or edit. The profile information
ensures and maintains security when accessing the platform. The
profile screen 1202 may permit or require that the user create a
username and password and input the user's full name and email
address. The platform may give the user the option to change the
username and password. The user may have the ability to upload a
personal picture and make color and graphics changes. The profile
tab may list at least one vehicle of the user and may include an
option to add or edit information for the at least one vehicle. As
shown in FIG. 12, the profile screen 1202 may also include one or
more user locations, shown generally at 1204, and in at least one
embodiment, the user has the option to edit one of the locations,
as shown at 1206, or input additional locations at 1208. The user
may save all changes made to the profile, including the locations,
by selecting the save feature 1210. The user may cancel all changes
made to the profile, including the locations, by selecting the
cancel feature 1212. FIG. 13 shows at least one embodiment of a
location screen 1302 accessed by the user in at least one
embodiment by selecting the location input feature 1208 on the
profile screen 1202. A user may add a name for the location, the
address for the location, and/or notes. In at least one embodiment,
the notes may be viewable by a vendor or a driver of a power source
transport vehicle. The user may save all changes made to the
profile, including the locations, by selecting the save feature
1310.
[0062] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 14, the user interface
800 may have a payment screen 1402, which may be accessed by the
user by selecting the "payment" tab 1110 shown in FIG. 11. The user
may enter and/or edit electronic payment information as shown
generally at 1404. A user may enter debit or credit card
information, bank account information, online money transfer
account information such as PayPal.TM. account information, or
other form of electronic payment information. The user may select
an option to save or not save payment information. For companies or
organizations with multiple users, in some embodiments the payment
tab provides information to allow the user to charge a charge
account for the company or organization associated with the user.
The payment screen 1402 may allow a user to enter new payment
information, as shown generally at 1406. FIG. 15 shows at least one
embodiment of a payment method information screen 1502 accessed by
the user in at least one embodiment by selecting the location input
feature 1406 on the payment screen 1402. A user may add a name for
the payment method and any suitable information for processing a
payment via the payment method such as a card number, expiration
date, and security code.
[0063] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 16, the user interface
800 may have an order history screen 1602, which may be accessed by
the user by selecting the "orders" tab 1112 shown in FIG. 11. The
order history screen 1602 may display current order information, as
shown generally at 1604, and/or historical order information, as
shown generally at 1606. In at least one embodiment, one or more of
the current order information displayed at 1604 is a pending order.
In at least one embodiment, the user may edit a pending order, as
shown at 1608, or cancel a pending order, as shown at 1610. In at
least one embodiment, the user may edit or cancel a recurring
order. The user may be able to retrieve invoices for completed
orders from the order screen for the historical order information
shown generally at 1606. Each invoice may, for example, show a
description of the vehicle, location at the time of service, date
of service, power source description of the vehicle, cost of power
source replenished, and/or costs for other services. Another
embodiment may additionally provide the user with the option not to
save past invoices.
[0064] In one embodiment, as shown in FIG. 17, the user interface
800 may have a support screen 1702, which may be accessed by the
user by selecting the "support" tab 1114 shown in FIG. 11. In some
embodiments, the support screen 1702 provides the user with
information or with messaging capability to the vendor or the
platform manager to ask questions, raise concerns, resolve issues,
make complaints, and/or request assistance with any and all aspects
related to the vendor's services and business activities.
[0065] In at least one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 18-19, the
user interface 800 may have at least one policy screen 1802, 1902
which may be accessed by the user by selecting the "about" tab 1116
shown in FIG. 11. In some embodiments, the policy screen 1802 may
include an insurance disclosure. In some embodiment, the policy
screen 1802 may include information regarding background checks
conducted for employees and vendors. The policy screen 1802 may
explain, store, or display legal policies and/or rules as shown in
FIG. 19. A user may be asked to read the information on one or more
of the policy screens 1802, 1902 before the user can receive power
source replenishment service. In another embodiment, the user is
required to acknowledge by an electronic signature that they have
read and accept all of the terms and conditions in the "policy" tab
before receiving power source replenishment service.
[0066] Referring back to FIGS. 10-11, the user may select the order
feature 1006 in order to place either an on-demand replenishment
request or establish an automatic replenishment request. As shown
in FIG. 20, after selecting the order feature 1006, the user may
then be directed to a vehicle selection screen 2002 where the user
can select from one of the vehicles listed on the screen, as shown
generally at 2004, or may add a new vehicle by selecting the
vehicle input feature shown at 2006. Optionally, the user may
select the cancel feature 2008 and return to the home screen 1000
of the user interface 800. FIG. 21 shows at least one embodiment of
a vehicle screen 2102 accessed by the user in at least one
embodiment by selecting the vehicle input feature 2006. A user may
provide information regarding the vehicle including, but not
limited to, the year, make, model, color, mileage, license plate
number, and/or a name for the vehicle. In some embodiments, based
on the input of the year, make, and model of the vehicle, the
platform may automatically retrieve information about the power
source replenishment access point on the vehicle and power source
information from information stored by the platform regarding
vehicles of the same year, make, and model. In some embodiments,
based on the input of the year, make, model, and/or mileage of the
vehicle, the platform may automatically retrieve maintenance
schedule information about the vehicle or information about
recommended types of fluids, filters, and other maintenance items.
The user may save the new vehicle information by selecting the save
feature 2110.
[0067] Once the user has selected a vehicle from the vehicle
selection screen 2002, in some embodiments, the user then may
select the frequency of service from an order option screen shown
at 2202 in FIG. 22. Order option screen 2202 allows a user to
select from on-demand replenishment, recurring or automatic
replenishment as shown generally at 2204, or replenishment based on
power source level as shown generally at 2206. Optionally, the user
may select the cancel feature 2208 and return to the home screen
1000 of the user interface 800. If the user selects recurring or
automatic replenishment, the user then selects the day or days of
the week that it wishes to receive service for the selected
vehicle, as shown on the date selection screen 2302 of FIG. 23. The
user may also select at least one timeframe for service from one or
more time period options displayed on a time selection screen 2402
of FIG. 24. If the user selects replenishment based on power source
level, the user then selects the percentage of remaining power
source for the user vehicle that triggers a replenishment service
from a fuel level screen 2502 of FIG. 25.
[0068] In some embodiments, the user may select a power source from
the power source selection screen 2602 of FIG. 26. A number of
power source options 2604 may be displayed based on the information
provided about the vehicle or prior power source selections by the
user. Optionally, the user may select the cancel feature 2608 and
return to the home screen 1000 of the user interface 800. In most
embodiments, the user may cancel the order and/or editing the
information using any cancel feature on any screen within the
interface.
[0069] In some embodiments, the user may select a location for the
replenishment service from the location selection screen 2702 of
FIG. 27. The user may select from a number of stored locations, as
shown generally at 2704, or may add a new location by selecting the
location input feature 2706. In some embodiments, selecting the
location input feature 2706 may then display the location screen
1302 of FIG. 13. In at least one embodiment, the location may be
automatically selected based on GPS information for the user device
or for the user vehicle. Optionally, the user may select the cancel
feature 2708 and return to the home screen 1000 of the user
interface 800.
[0070] FIG. 28 shows one embodiment of an order confirmation screen
2802 for the user interface 800. Information displayed by the order
confirmation screen 2802 may include information regarding the
vehicle selected for replenishment services, information regarding
the power source type selected, delivery fees, the location for the
replenishment service, payment information. Where the user request
was for scheduled or automatic services, the order confirmation
screen may display date and time information for the service. In
some embodiments, the user may edit the displayed information by
selecting the edit feature 2804, which returns the user to the
appropriate screen for editing the information. For example, if the
user wants to edit the vehicle information displayed on the order
confirmation screen 2802, selecting the edit feature 2804 returns
the user to the vehicle screen 2102. FIG. 29 shows a payment
confirmation screen 2902 for the user interface 800 to authorize
payment.
[0071] FIG. 30 shows one embodiment of a receipt 3000 displayed to
the user after completion of the service. The receipt may display
one or more of the following information: vehicle serviced, date
serviced, time serviced, type of power source used, power source
price, amount of power source replenished, cost of power source
replenished, delivery fee, cost for other services or products
provided, total cost, payment information, location of service,
vendor name, and/or vendor driver name.
[0072] FIG. 31 shows one embodiment of a splash screen 3102 for the
user interface 800, which may provide the user with information
regarding upcoming services, maintenance notifications, specials,
rewards, and/or other information pertinent to the user or
advertising material.
[0073] FIGS. 32-33 show embodiments of vendor interfaces 3200, 3300
of the platform. FIG. 32 shows one embodiment of a vendor interface
3200 for the platform for use by a vendor, a vendor employee, a
vendor agent, or a driver of the power source transport vehicle.
Vendor interface 3200 may comprise a login screen 3202, and once
the vendor logs in with vendor credentials, a home screen 3204 may
be displayed. From the home screen 3204, the vendor may select from
a number of options, which may include, but are not limited to, an
order queue manager as shown at 3206, order history manager at
3212, and/or service manager as shown at 3214. The order queue
manager receives user requests from the platform and displays the
user requests to the vendor to complete. In at least one
embodiment, the vendor selects a completion feature upon completion
of the replenishment service and the platform then authorizes the
display of the receipt via the user interface. The order queue
manager may comprise an itinerary feature shown at 3208 that
provides the vendor with an itinerary for replenishing power
source. In at least one embodiment, the itinerary may be optimized
for efficiency based on a capacity of power source for the power
source transport vehicle, the location of the power source
transport vehicle, and user requests. In some embodiments, the
itinerary feature may display the itinerary as a map or a list or
may have some other arrangement. The itinerary feature may
continuously or periodically update based at least on location
information regarding the power source transport vehicle and user
requests. The order queue manager may comprise a power source
monitoring feature 3210 that displays to the vendor how much power
source remains on the power source transport vehicle so that the
vendor knows when it needs to refill or replace the power source
container(s). The vendor may also be able to retrieve receipts or
information from completed replenishment requests and/or automatic
requests from the order history manager 3212. The service manager
3214 may allow the vendor to update maintenance services, other
products and services offered, rewards offered, and other
settings.
[0074] FIG. 33 shows one embodiment of a vendor management
interface 3300 that may be used by a supervisor or manager of a
vendor who may be monitoring one or more power source transport
vehicles. Vendor interface 3300 may comprise a login screen 3302,
and once the vendor logs in with vendor manager credentials, a home
screen 3304 may be displayed. From the home screen 3304, the vendor
may select from a number of options, which may include, but are not
limited to, a fleet manager as shown at 3306, order queue manager
at 3308, and/or service manager as shown at 3310. The fleet manager
3306 receives location information for the power source transport
vehicles and user requests from the platform. The vendor manager
may assign power source transport vehicles to user requests based
on the information displayed at assignment feature 3312. The fleet
manager 3306 may include a tracking feature to allow the vendor
manager to monitor the power source transport vehicles' location.
The order queue manager may have an itinerary feature and may
further comprise a power source monitoring feature 3314 that
displays to the vendor how much power source remains on one or more
power source transport vehicle so that the vendor knows when it
needs to refill or replace the power source container(s) or deploy
a different power source transport vehicle. The service manager
3316 may allow the vendor to review receipt information, update
maintenance services, other products and services offered, rewards
offered, and other settings.
[0075] Any system on which a platform of the present disclosure, or
a portion thereof, may be located, run on, or accessed through may
be a minicomputer, mainframe computer, personal computer (e.g.,
desktop or laptop), tablet computer, mobile device (e.g., personal
digital assistant (PDA) or smart phone) or other hand-held
computing device, server (e.g., blade server or rack server), a
network storage device, or any other suitable device or combination
of devices and may vary in size, shape, performance, functionality,
and price. Any such system may include volatile memory (e.g.,
random access memory (RAM)), one or more processing resources such
as a central processing unit (CPU) or hardware or software control
logic, ROM, and/or other types of nonvolatile memory (e.g., EPROM,
EEPROM, etc.). A basic input/output system (BIOS) can be stored in
the non-volatile memory (e.g., ROM), and may include basic routines
facilitating communication of data and signals between components
within the system. The volatile memory may additionally include a
high-speed RAM, such as static RAM for caching data.
[0076] Additional components of a system may include one or more
disk drives or one or more mass storage devices, one or more
network ports for communicating with external devices as well as
various input and output (I/O) devices, such as a keyboard, a
mouse, touchscreen and/or a video display. Mass storage devices may
include, but are not limited to, a hard disk drive, floppy disk
drive, CD-ROM drive, smart drive, flash drive, or other types of
non-volatile data storage, a plurality of storage devices, a
storage subsystem, or any combination of storage devices. A storage
interface may be provided for interfacing with mass storage
devices, for example, a storage subsystem. The storage interface
may include any suitable interface technology, such as EIDE, ATA,
SATA, and IEEE 1394. A system may include what is referred to as a
user interface for interacting with the system, which may generally
include a display, mouse or other cursor control device, keyboard,
button, touchpad, touch screen, stylus, remote control (such as an
infrared remote control), microphone, camera, video recorder,
gesture systems (e.g., eye movement, head movement, etc.), speaker,
LED, light, joystick, game pad, switch, buzzer, bell, and/or other
user input/output device for communicating with one or more users
or for entering information into the system. These and other
devices for interacting with the system may be connected to the
system through I/O device interface(s) via a system bus, but can be
connected by other interfaces such as a parallel port, IEEE 1394
serial port, a game port, a USB port, an IR interface, etc. Output
devices may include any type of device for presenting information
to a user, including but not limited to, a computer monitor,
flat-screen display, or other visual display, a printer, and/or
speakers or any other device for providing information in audio
form, such as a telephone, a plurality of output devices, or any
combination of output devices.
[0077] A system may also include one or more buses operable to
transmit communications between the various hardware components. A
system bus may be any of several types of bus structure that can
further interconnect, for example, to a memory bus (with or without
a memory controller) and/or a peripheral bus (e.g., PCI, PCIe, AGP,
LPC, etc.) using any of a variety of commercially available bus
architectures.
[0078] One or more programs or applications, such as an application
or app described herein, or a portion thereof, and/or other
executable applications, may be stored in one or more of the system
data storage devices. Generally, programs may include routines,
methods, data structures, other software components, etc., that
perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data
types. Programs or applications may be loaded in part or in whole
into a main memory or processor during execution by the processor.
One or more processors may execute applications or programs to run
systems or methods of the present disclosure, or portions thereof,
stored as executable programs or program code in the memory, or
received from the Internet or other network. Any commercial or
freeware web browser or other application capable of retrieving
content from a network and displaying pages or screens may be used.
In some embodiments, a customized application may be used to
access, display, and update information. A user may interact with
the system, programs, and data stored thereon or accessible thereto
using any one or more of the input and output devices described
above.
[0079] A system of the present disclosure can operate in a
networked environment using logical connections via a wired and/or
wireless communications subsystem to one or more networks and/or
other computers. Other computers can include, but are not limited
to, workstations, servers, routers, personal computers,
microprocessor-based entertainment appliances, peer devices, or
other common network nodes, and may generally include many or all
of the elements described above. Logical connections may include
wired and/or wireless connectivity to a local area network (LAN), a
wide area network (WAN), hotspot, a global communications network,
such as the Internet, and so on. The system may be operable to
communicate with wired and/or wireless devices or other processing
entities using, for example, radio technologies, such as the IEEE
802.xx family of standards, and includes at least Wi-Fi (wireless
fidelity), WiMax, and Bluetooth wireless technologies.
Communications can be made via a predefined structure as with a
conventional network or via an ad hoc communication between at
least two devices.
[0080] Hardware and software components of the present disclosure,
as discussed herein, may be integral portions of a single computer
or server or may be connected parts of a computer network. The
hardware and software components may be located within a single
location or, in other embodiments, portions of the hardware and
software components may be divided among a plurality of locations
and connected directly or through a global computer information
network, such as the Internet. Accordingly, aspects of the various
embodiments of the present disclosure can be practiced in
distributed computing environments where certain tasks are
performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a
communications network. In such a distributed computing
environment, program modules may be located in local and/or remote
storage and/or memory systems.
[0081] As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the
various embodiments of the present disclosure may be embodied as a
method (including, for example, a computer-implemented process, a
business process, and/or any other process), apparatus (including,
for example, a system, machine, device, computer program product,
and/or the like), or a combination of the foregoing. Accordingly,
embodiments of the present disclosure may take the form of an
entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment
(including firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description
languages, etc.), or an embodiment combining software and hardware
aspects. Furthermore, embodiments of the present disclosure may
take the form of a computer program product on a computer-readable
medium or computer-readable storage medium, having
computer-executable program code embodied in the medium, that
define processes or methods described herein. A processor or
processors may perform the necessary tasks defined by the
computer-executable program code. Computer-executable program code
for carrying out operations of embodiments of the present
disclosure may be written in an object oriented, scripted or
unscripted programming language such as Java, Perl, PHP, Visual
Basic, Smalltalk, C++, or the like. However, the computer program
code for carrying out operations of embodiments of the present
disclosure may also be written in conventional procedural
programming languages, such as the C programming language or
similar programming languages. A code segment may represent a
procedure, a function, a subprogram, a program, a routine, a
subroutine, a module, an object, a software package, a class, or
any combination of instructions, data structures, or program
statements. A code segment may be coupled to another code segment
or a hardware circuit by passing and/or receiving information,
data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents. Information,
arguments, parameters, data, etc. may be passed, forwarded, or
transmitted via any suitable means including memory sharing,
message passing, token passing, network transmission, etc.
[0082] In the context of this document, a computer readable medium
may be any medium that can contain, store, communicate, or
transport the program for use by or in connection with the systems
disclosed herein. The computer-executable program code may be
transmitted using any appropriate medium, including but not limited
to the Internet, optical fiber cable, radio frequency (RF) signals
or other wireless signals, or other mediums. The computer readable
medium may be, for example but is not limited to, an electronic,
magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor
system, apparatus, or device. More specific examples of suitable
computer readable medium include, but are not limited to, an
electrical connection having one or more wires or a tangible
storage medium such as a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a
random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable
programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), a compact
disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), or other optical or magnetic
storage device. Computer-readable media includes, but is not to be
confused with, computer-readable storage medium, which is intended
to cover all physical, non-transitory, or similar embodiments of
computer-readable media.
[0083] As used herein, the terms "substantially" or "generally"
refer to the complete or nearly complete extent or degree of an
action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or
result. For example, an object that is "substantially" or
"generally" enclosed would mean that the object is either
completely enclosed or nearly completely enclosed. The exact
allowable degree of deviation from absolute completeness may in
some cases depend on the specific context. However, generally
speaking, the nearness of completion will be so as to have
generally the same overall result as if absolute and total
completion were obtained. The use of "substantially" or "generally"
is equally applicable when used in a negative connotation to refer
to the complete or near complete lack of an action, characteristic,
property, state, structure, item, or result. For example, an
element, combination, embodiment, or composition that is
"substantially free of" or "generally free of" an element may still
actually contain such element as long as there is generally no
significant effect thereof.
[0084] In the foregoing description various embodiments of the
present disclosure have been presented for the purpose of
illustration and description. They are not intended to be
exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed.
Obvious modifications or variations are possible in light of the
above teachings. The various embodiments were chosen and described
to provide the best illustration of the principals of the
disclosure and their practical application, and to enable one of
ordinary skill in the art to utilize the various embodiments with
various modifications as are suited to the particular use
contemplated. All such modifications and variations are within the
scope of the present disclosure as determined by the appended
claims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth they are
fairly, legally, and equitably entitled.
* * * * *