Abstract: A vehicle inspection and maintenance system, comprising a platform 101 installed with a ramp 102 connected via a rotational joint 103 to accommodate a vehicle, at least one inspection module 104 to perform vehicle diagnostics determine issues required to be resolved, a vehicle classification module determines vehicle type, at least one maintenance unit 106 to execute maintenance operations of the vehicle to resolve detected issues, at least one wheel clamping arrangement 109 to secure the vehicle, a set of extendable vertical plates 110 creates barrier ensuring vehicle stability during inspection and maintenance operation, an oil inspection unit 111 to measure oil volume, oil density deviations from standard values and an contamination to evaluate viscosity of the oil and a 3D projection unit 112 highlights detected issues, and show pre and post-repair comparisons.
Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a vehicle inspection and maintenance system that enables diagnostics and repair operations on a wide range of vehicles for reducing inspection time and improving precision in fault detection and resolution through real-time execution of maintenance tasks.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Vehicles with critical conditions such as faulty brakes, worn-out tires, or engine issues are required to be inspected and maintained immediately to prevent accidents and ensure safe driving. In such cases, vehicle owners are required to schedule inspections and maintenance with service providers. Although, there might be chances of unavailability of efficient inspection and maintenance services, especially for commercial vehicles. In such cases, vehicle owners are required to rely on traditional methods, which may not provide comprehensive diagnostics and repair. But traditional methods do not have advanced equipment for real-time monitoring of vehicle health, and the service providers may not be skilled enough to detect and repair complex issues, sometimes resulting in further damage or accidents.
[0003] Sometimes, depending on the location of the vehicle, there are chances of delayed inspection and maintenance. Basically, a reasonable time is provided for the vehicles to be inspected and maintained. But due to distance, traffic congestion, and inefficient service scheduling, the response time could vary from hours to days or even weeks. Because of lack of efficient service management, it leads to increased downtime and loss of productivity for vehicle owners. Vehicle inspection and maintenance delay becomes a major obstacle for ensuring road safety and preventing accidents, which may worsen the vehicle's condition or lead to costly repairs. In this case, vehicle owners also need to rely on traditional maintenance methods. However, while relying on traditional methods, there are chances of facing delays and inefficiencies in inspection and maintenance, which also leads to increased risk of accidents. Moreover, the service providers are not aware of the vehicle's critical condition, and hence, the vehicle is not prioritized based on its condition.
[0004] US6587768B2 discloses a method and system is provided for inspecting and maintaining a vehicle. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a method of capturing vehicle data including the steps of servicing a vehicle at a location corresponding to service data. Service data is input into a portable handheld computing device and transferred from the portable handheld computing device to a vehicle onboard computer. Vehicle warranty data is provided on the vehicle onboard computer. The service data and the vehicle warranty data are retrieved from the vehicle onboard computer. In another embodiment of the present invention, a method of inspecting a vehicle includes communicating with the vehicle systems using a portable handheld computing device to automatically inspect the vehicle systems. Prompts are displayed on the portable handheld computing device to guide a vehicle inspector to inspect additional vehicle systems. A help option is displayed on the portable handheld computing device associated with one of the additional vehicle systems. Selecting the help option displays instructions related to the vehicle system, such as how to inspect the system and how to fix the system if any problems are encountered.
[0005] US6330499B1 discloses a system and method for vehicle diagnostic and health monitoring includes a client computer device within the vehicle, coupled to the vehicle's monitoring systems, for data management, remote session management and user interaction, a communication system, coupled to the client computer device, for providing remote communication of data including data derived from internal monitoring systems of the vehicle, and a remote service center including a vehicle data store, a server computer, a diagnostic engine, and a communicator for communicating the results of analysis of vehicle information to the client computer device via the communication system.
[0006] As per the discussion in above-mentioned prior arts, many methods and systems are available that focus on vehicle inspection and maintenance. However, these conventional systems and methods don't provide efficient inspection and maintenance services due to unavailability of advanced equipment and skilled service providers. In addition, these existing systems also don't categorize vehicles based on their condition, due to which vehicles that require priority inspection and maintenance are not attended to on time, resulting in increased risk of accidents.
[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a system that requires to provide a provision for efficient inspection and maintenance of vehicles, prioritizing them based on their condition, and sharing all required details with service providers in a secured manner for providing timely and effective maintenance to the vehicles.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.
[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a system that enables users to receive a complete and accurate diagnostic assessment of their vehicle’s condition without manual inspection, reducing time, effort, and dependency on skilled labor.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of identifying issues and performing immediate corrective actions within the same session, minimizing vehicle downtime and ensuring critical problems are addressed promptly.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of automatically adapting to various vehicle sizes and categories, providing a secure and stable environment for both inspection and maintenance, whether for light passenger cars or heavy-duty vehicles.
[0012] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of customizing the diagnostic process based on the vehicle’s specific make, model, and usage patterns, ensuring only relevant checks are performed and unnecessary operations are avoided.
[0013] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of responding based on real-time data to predict future issues, allowing users to address potential failures before they occur, thus extending vehicle life and reducing emergency repair costs.
[0014] Another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of allowing users to view reports, receive alerts, track maintenance history, and schedule future sessions, simplifying record-keeping and planning.
[0015] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a system that is capable of offering intuitive, visual representations of detected issues and repair outcomes, helping users better understand the health of their vehicle without requiring technical knowledge.
[0016] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] The present invention relates to a vehicle inspection and maintenance system that is accessed by a user to initiate scanning of a vehicle to identify the vehicle type and performs necessary repair actions for ensuring accurate and automated servicing without requiring manual intervention.
[0018] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a vehicle inspection and maintenance system, comprising a platform installed with a ramp connected via a rotational joint to accommodate a vehicle, at least one inspection module installed on the platform via at least one sliding rail arranged along the platform periphery, enabling movement of the inspection module via a plurality of extendable bars to perform comprehensive vehicle diagnostics determine issues required to be resolved, the inspection module comprising an ultrasonic sensor for crack detection, an IR sensor for thermal mapping and identify abnormal temperature zones, a tire pressure sensor configured to measure real-time air pressure in the tires and a data processing module configured to compute optimal tire pressure based on vehicle type, load, and terrain parameters and an imaging unit configured to detect visible surface damage including dents, paint degradation, and scratches, an image of the vehicle is captured after positioning of the vehicle over the platform, and matched with a database to identify make, model, vehicle type, and application to optimize inspection parameters, a vehicle classification module linked with the inspection unit uses image input to determine vehicle type, machine learning protocols are trained on historical and real-time data from inspection module to identify patterns of wear and predict failures for triggering early maintenance alerts on a user’s computing unit wirelessly linked with the system, to allow users to access diagnostics, maintenance logs, alerts, and schedule tasks for vehicle maintenance.
[0019] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the system further includes at least one maintenance unit mounted on the platform, via the sliding rail arranged along the platform periphery, enabling movement of the maintenance unit via a plurality of extendable links to execute maintenance operations of the vehicle to resolve detected issues, the maintenance units comprising a welding unit including an electrode configured to repair cracks by melting and fusing material at the damaged site based on the input received from the inspection units, a clamping unit comprising a spring-loaded actuator, configured to assist in maintenance operations by temporarily securing components, opening fuel tank caps, holding cracked parts during welding, and manipulating doors or other movable parts during inspection or repair tasks, a painting module including multiple color chambers, electronic control valve (ECV) nozzles, and a motorized slider selectively moves ECV nozzles over target areas, and each nozzle includes an iris lid for controlled paint release and a control processor configured to receive inputs from the inspection unit and activate corresponding maintenance modules based on detected faults.
[0020] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the system further includes at least one wheel clamping arrangement installed on the platform, adapted to secure the vehicle based on vehicle type and positioning determined by the classification module to activate the clamping arrangement for light vehicles, the clamping arrangement is activated via a vertical piston and uses a horizontally connected pair of L-shaped plates on a sliding channel to adapt the clamping force based on the tire width, a set of extendable vertical plates configured to extend for heavy vehicles determined by the classification module, to create barriers ensuring vehicle stability during inspection and maintenance operation, an oil inspection unit installed on the platform comprises of an oil level sensor configured to measure oil volume, an oil density sensor adapted to determine oil density deviations from standard values and an oil quality sensor configured to detect contamination and evaluate viscosity of the oil and a 3D projection unit configured to display a real-time 3D model of the vehicle, highlight detected issues, and show pre and post-repair comparisons.
[0021] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a vehicle inspection and maintenance system.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0023] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0024] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.
[0025] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.
[0026] The present invention relates to a vehicle inspection and maintenance system that is accessed by a user to inspect and maintain vehicles by classifying the vehicle type, evaluating mechanical and fluidic parameters in real-time, and further communicates detected issues with the user for ensuring minimal downtime and enhanced operational readiness of the vehicle.
[0027] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a vehicle inspection and maintenance system is illustrated, comprising a platform 101 installed with a ramp 102 connected via a rotational joint 103, at least one inspection module 104 installed on the platform 101 via a plurality of extendable bars 105, the inspection module 104 comprising, an ultrasonic sensor 104a, an IR sensor 104b, a tire pressure sensor 104c and an imaging unit 104d, at least one maintenance unit 106 mounted on the platform 101 via a plurality of extendable links 107, the maintenance unit 106 comprising a welding unit 106a, a clamping unit 106b and a painting module 106c, at least one sliding rail 108 arranged along the platform 101 periphery, at least one wheel clamping arrangement 109 installed on the platform 101, a set of extendable vertical plates 110 installed over the platform 101, an oil inspection unit 111 installed on the platform 101 and a 3D projection unit 112 is installed on the platform 101.
[0028] The present invention pertains to an inspection and maintenance system, which is configured to autonomously diagnose, classify, and perform targeted maintenance operations on vehicles. The system disclosed herein comprises a platform 101, which is designed to be strong enough to support various types of vehicles. The platform 101 is attached with a ramp 102 that facilitates the movement of a vehicle onto the platform 101 for inspection and maintenance. The ramp 102 is connected to the platform 101 via a rotational joint 103, which allows it to pivot for easier alignment and positioning relative to the ground level. This rotational capability ensures adaptability in diverse garage or field environments, providing ergonomic entry for vehicles regardless of size or ground clearance.
[0029] In an embodiment of the present invention, the rotational joint 103 mentioned herein is typically a motorized ball and socket joint. The motorized ball and socket joint consists of a ball-shaped element that fits into a socket, which provides rotational freedom in various directions. The ball is connected to a motor, typically a servo motor which provides the controlled movement. The platform 101 is attached to the socket of the motorized ball and socket joint. The motor responds by adjusting the ball and socket joint and rotates the ball in the desired direction, and this motion is transferred to the socket that holds the platform 101. As the ball and socket joint move, it provides the necessary alignment to the platform 101 and positioning, relative to the ground level.
[0030] In another embodiment of the present invention, the rotational joint 103 mentioned herein is typically a motorized hinge.
[0031] Mounted around the periphery of the platform 101 is at least one inspection module 104 that moves along a sliding rail 108. This attachment allows the inspection module 104 to be repositioned dynamically for optimal coverage of vehicle surfaces. The sliding rail 108 is a mechanical component that enables the inspection module 104 to move smoothly along the platform's periphery. Internally, the sliding rail 108 consists of a track attached to the platform 101 and a slider connected to the inspection module 104. The carriage is designed to fit snugly within the track, allowing it to glide along the rail with minimal friction. As the inspection module 104 needs to be repositioned, the carriage moves along the track, driven by a motor. This movement is achieved through belt drive. The sliding rail 108 may also incorporate bearings to reduce friction and ensure smooth motion.
[0032] The movement of the inspection module 104 is facilitated by a plurality of extendable bars 105 that provide precise articulation and reach to inspect different sections of the vehicle. In an embodiment of the present invention, the extension of the extendable bar is powered by a pneumatic unit that utilizes the compressed air to extend or retract the bar reach to inspect different sections of the vehicle as per requirement.
[0033] The inspection module 104 itself incorporates a variety of sensors such as an ultrasonic sensor 104a designed specifically for detecting cracks and structural fractures, an IR sensor 104b that performs thermal mapping to detect and identify abnormal temperature zones which may indicate overheating or faulty components and a tire pressure sensor 104c that continuously monitors the real-time air pressure within the tires.
[0034] The ultrasonic sensor 104a works by emitting high-frequency sound waves, typically beyond human hearing range, towards the vehicle's surface. These sound waves are generated by a piezoelectric transducer within the sensor. When the sound waves encounter a crack or structural fracture, they are reflected back to the sensor. The sensor then detects these reflected waves and measures the time-of-flight, which is the time it takes for the sound waves to bounce back. By analysing the reflected waves and time-of-flight, the sensor determines the presence, size, and location of cracks or fractures. This information is then processed and used to identify potential issues with the vehicle's structure.
[0035] Then, the IR sensor 104b works by detecting the thermal radiation emitted by the vehicle's components. All objects emit thermal radiation, and the intensity of this radiation varies with temperature. In an embodiment of the The IR sensor 104b uses a thermopile detector to measure the thermal radiation patterns across the vehicle's surface. This data is then used to create a thermal map, which highlights areas of abnormal temperature. By analysing this thermal map, the sensor identifies potential issues such as overheating brakes, faulty electrical components, or excessive friction in moving parts. The IR sensor 104b also used to detect temperature anomalies that may indicate impending component failure.
[0036] On the other hand, the tire pressure sensor 104c works by measuring the air pressure within the tires. This is typically done using a pressure transducer, which converts the pressure into an electrical signal. The sensor uses a piezoresistive sensing, to measure the pressure. The sensor is usually mounted in close proximity to the tire valve stem. As the tire pressure changes, the sensor detects the change in pressure. These inputs are fed to a data processing module that calculates the optimal tire pressure based on a combination of vehicle type, load weight, and expected terrain, providing smart diagnostics.
[0037] In addition, the module includes an imaging unit 104d that captures high-resolution images of the vehicle surface to identify visible defects such as dents, paint degradation, and scratches. The entire setup is designed to deliver a comprehensive, sensor-driven diagnosis of vehicle condition.
[0038] In an embodiment of the present invention, the imaging unit 104d mentioned herein is based upon artificial intelligence. The imaging unit 104d is constructed with a camera lens and a processor, wherein the camera lens is adapted to capture a series of images of the vehicle surface. The processor carries out a sequence of image processing operations including pre-processing, feature extraction, and classification by utilizing artificial intelligence and machine learning protocols. The image captured by the imaging unit 104d is real-time images of the vehicle surface.
[0039] The machine learning protocols utilizes both historical records and real-time data from the inspection module 104 to detect recurring patterns of wear and predict possible component failures. These protocols analyze anomalies and trends across a broad dataset, enabling predictive maintenance planning and minimizing unexpected breakdowns. When potential issues are forecasted, the system triggers alerts that are sent wirelessly to a user’s computing unit such as a smartphone, tablet, or workstation wirelessly linked with the system. This computing unit serves as an interface, providing access to detailed diagnostics, maintenance history logs, and alerts, while also allowing users to schedule future maintenance tasks, thereby enhancing vehicle reliability and reduces downtime.
[0040] To perform corrective actions based on diagnostics, the system features at least one maintenance unit 106 that is similarly mounted on the sliding rail 108 around the platform 's edge. It is capable of movement through a plurality of extendable links 107, providing precise reach and articulation to various parts of the vehicle. The maintenance unit 106 includes multiple submodules, a welding unit 106a featuring an electrode capable of performing precision crack repairs by melting and fusing material at damaged locations.
[0041] The welding unit 106a works by using the electrode to generate a controlled electrical arc or spark. This arc melts the material at the damaged location, allowing the welding unit 106a to fuse the material and repair cracks or other damage. The electrode is precisely controlled to ensure accurate and targeted welding. In an embodiment of the present invention, the welding process involves the use of shielding gases or fluxes to protect the weld area from atmospheric gases and ensure a clean, strong weld. The welding unit's precision and control enable it to repair complex cracks and damage, restoring the vehicle's structural integrity. This welding operation is driven by the data input received from the inspection unit 111 to ensure targeted intervention.
[0042] Additionally, a clamping unit 106b with a spring-loaded actuator to perform multiple tasks such as securing loose components temporarily, opening fuel tank caps, holding cracked parts in place during welding, and manipulating movable parts like doors or panels during maintenance. The clamping unit 106b works by using the spring-loaded actuator to apply a controlled amount of force to secure or manipulate components. The actuator's spring loading allows it to adapt to varying component sizes and shapes, ensuring a secure grip. The clamping unit 106b performs multiple tasks, such as holding cracked parts in place during welding, securing loose components, or opening fuel tank caps. The spring-loaded actuator provides a precise and gentle touch, allowing the clamping unit 106b to manipulate delicate or complex components without causing damage. This versatility enables the clamping unit 106b to assist in a wide range of maintenance tasks.
[0043] The maintenance unit 106 is also comprising a painting module 106c which houses multiple color chambers and utilizes electronic control valve (ECV) nozzles mounted on a motorized slider that moves selectively to apply paint on target areas. Each nozzle has an iris lid for finely controlled paint discharge. A control processor governs the painting operation, activating specific nozzles and color combinations based on fault inputs from the inspection module 104, ensuring accurate cosmetic restoration.
[0044] When the painting module 106c receives a paint command from the control processor, the motorized slider positions the ECV nozzles over the target area. The control processor then activates the specific nozzle(s) corresponding to the required color(s), and the iris lid opens to dispense the paint. The ECV nozzle's electronic control ensures that the paint flow is precisely regulated, allowing for accurate color matching and smooth paint application. As the nozzle moves over the target area, the paint is applied in a controlled and consistent manner. The synchronous operation of the color chambers, ECV nozzles, and motorized slider enables the painting module 106c to accurately restore the vehicle's appearance with precise color matching and smooth paint application.
[0045] The system incorporates at least one wheel clamping arrangement 109 designed to immobilize the vehicle during inspection and servicing. This clamping arrangement 109 is adaptive and responds to the classification data received from the vehicle classification module. For light vehicles, the clamping arrangement 109 functions through a vertically operated piston which actuates a pair of L-shaped plates arranged horizontally. These plates move along a sliding channel, enabling them to adapt the clamping force according to the specific tire width of the vehicle, which ensures secure holding of the vehicle without risking damage to the wheels, allowing for safe and stable inspection and maintenance procedures.
[0046] To ensure vehicle stability during service operations, particularly for heavy-duty vehicles, the system includes a set of extendable vertical plates 110. When the classification module identifies a heavy vehicle, these vertical plates 110 are automatically deployed. In an embodiment of the present invention, the extension of the plate is powered by a pneumatic unit that utilizes the compressed air to extend or retract the plates 110. The plates 110 extend vertically around the vehicle, forming rigid barriers that prevent unintended lateral or rolling movement during inspection or repair activities, which provides an additional layer of safety, especially when the vehicle is subject to physical forces during maintenance procedures like welding or component manipulation.
[0047] Furthermore, an oil inspection unit 111 is also integrated into the platform 101, tasked with evaluating the condition of engine oil or hydraulic fluids in the vehicle. The oil inspection unit 111 includes an oil level sensor that accurately measures the current volume of oil in the system. The oil level sensor works by using a float or a probe that detects the oil level in the system. In an embodiment of the present invention, the sensor uses various technologies, which includes but not limited to capacitive, ultrasonic, or magnetic sensing to measure the oil level. As the oil level changes, the sensor detects the change and sends a signal to the inspection unit's processing module. The processing module then calculates the current oil volume based on the sensor's input. This information is used to determine if the oil level is within the recommended range.
[0048] In parallel, an oil density sensor detects any deviations from standard density values, which may indicate the presence of foreign substances, degradation, or dilution. The oil density sensor works by measuring the mass per unit volume of the oil. This is typically done using a vibrating element that oscillates at a specific frequency. As the oil flows past the sensor, the frequency of oscillation changes in response to the oil's density. The sensor detects this change in frequency and calculates the oil's density. By comparing the measured density to standard values, the sensor detects deviations that may indicate contamination, degradation, or dilution of the oil.
[0049] Additionally, an oil quality sensor assesses the chemical and physical condition of the oil, specifically checking for contamination and evaluating its viscosity to determine whether the oil retains appropriate lubrication properties. The oil quality sensor works by assessing various physical and chemical properties of the oil. This may include measuring the oil's viscosity, dielectric constant, or optical properties. In an embodiment of the present invention, the sensor may use various technologies such as viscometry, spectroscopy, or capacitance sensing to evaluate the oil's condition. By analyzing these properties, the sensor detects contamination, degradation, or changes in the oil's lubrication properties.
[0050] For example, the sensor may detect changes in viscosity that indicate oil degradation or contamination. This information is used to determine if the oil needs to be changed or if there are any issues with the vehicle's engine or lubrication. The oil inspection unit 111 enables the system to provide oil change recommendations or contamination alerts.
[0051] For visual analysis and user interface enhancement, the system includes a 3D projection unit 112. This module renders a real-time 3D model of the vehicle, mapped from data collected by the inspection unit 111s. In an embodiment of the present invention, the 3D projection unit 112 is typically a holographic projection unit 112. The holographic projection unit 112 works by recording and reconstructing light fields to create a three-dimensional image. This is typically achieved using lasers, beam splitters, and spatial light modulators. The unit records the interference pattern of light waves reflected from the vehicle's surface, which is then used to reconstruct a 3D hologram. The hologram is displayed in mid-air, allowing users to view the vehicle's 3D model from different angles. The holographic projection unit 112 displays detailed, high-resolution images of the vehicle's surface, highlighting areas of damage or wear.
[0052] In another embodiment of the present invention, the 3D projection unit 112 is typically a laser based projection unit 112. The laser-based projection unit 112 works by using lasers to create high-resolution images on a surface, which is typically achieved using galvanometer scanners to steer the laser beam and create the image. The unit receives data from the inspection unit 111 and uses this data to generate a 3D model of the vehicle. The laser projector then displays this model on a surface, such as a screen or the vehicle's surface itself. The laser-based projection unit 112 displays detailed, high-resolution images of the vehicle's surface, highlighting areas of damage or wear.
[0053] Detected issues such as cracks, dents, or temperature anomalies are visually highlighted on the model for clear and intuitive understanding. Furthermore, the projection unit 112 supports pre-repair and post-repair visual comparison, allowing users or technicians to confirm the effectiveness of maintenance procedures. This immersive visualization aids in quality assurance and supports user confidence in the system’s operation
[0054] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the platform 101 as disclosed in the invention is installed with the ramp 102 connected through the rotational joint 103 to accommodate the vehicle. This joint enables flexible angling to accommodate various vehicle entry positions. Once the vehicle is in place, the image of the vehicle is captured and matched with the database to identify its make, model, vehicle type, and application. This information is fed to the vehicle classification module, which uses image input to determine the vehicle type light or heavy. Based on the classification result, the wheel clamping arrangement 109 is engaged it is activated via the vertical piston and uses the horizontally connected pair of L-shaped plates on the sliding channel to adapt the clamping force based on the tire width. For heavy vehicles, the set of extendable vertical plates 110 extends to create barriers that stabilize the vehicle during subsequent operations. With the vehicle secured, the inspection module 104 mounted on sliding rails 108 arranged along the platform 101 periphery activates. The sliding rail 108s support the inspection module 104 through the plurality of extendable bars 105, allowing the module to move around the vehicle. The inspection module 104 comprises multiple sensors and tools: the ultrasonic sensor 104a for detecting structural cracks; the IR sensor 104b for thermal mapping and identifying abnormal temperature zones, the tire pressure sensor 104c to measure real-time air pressure and compute optimal values based on load, terrain, and vehicle type; and the imaging unit 104d to identify surface damages such as dents, paint degradation, and scratches. Data collected from these sensors are processed to determine the faults or areas needing attention. Based on inputs received from the inspection module 104, the maintenance unit 106 are mobilized. These are also supported by the sliding rails 108 via the plurality of extendable links 107, enabling them to reach target areas of the vehicle.
[0055] In continuation, the maintenance unit 106 consist of several specialized modules: the welding unit 106a equipped with the electrode to repair cracks by melting and fusing material at the damaged site; the clamping unit 106b comprising the spring-loaded actuator for temporary securing of vehicle components, assisting in tasks like opening fuel caps or holding cracked parts during welding and the painting module 106c that includes multiple color chambers and electronic control valve (ECV) nozzles mounted on the motorized slider. Each nozzle in this module has the iris lid that controls the paint release, allowing for selective application of colors as per detected paint damages. the control processor governs the operation of these maintenance unit 106, activating the relevant module depending on the faults identified by the inspection module 104. Throughout the process, the 3D projection unit 112 provides the real-time visual model of the vehicle. This display highlights the detected issues and shows the comparative view of the vehicle’s state before and after maintenance, enhancing transparency and diagnostics. Additionally, machine learning protocols running in the background analyze historical and real-time inspection data to detect wear patterns and predict potential failures. These insights trigger early maintenance alerts that are transmitted wirelessly to the user’s computing unit. This computing unit also provides access to diagnostics reports, maintenance logs, real-time alerts, and scheduling functions, enabling users to manage vehicle servicing efficiently.
[0056] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , Claims:1) A vehicle inspection and maintenance system, comprising:
i) a platform 101 installed with a ramp 102 connected via a rotational joint 103 to accommodate a vehicle;
ii) at least one inspection module 104 installed on the platform 101, configured to perform comprehensive vehicle diagnostics determine issues required to be resolved;
iii) at least one maintenance unit 106 mounted on the platform 101, configured to execute maintenance operations of the vehicle to resolve detected issues;
iv) at least one sliding rail 108 arranged along the platform 101 periphery enabling movement of the inspection and maintenance unit 106 for inspection and maintenance operation, respectively;
v) at least one wheel clamping arrangement 109 installed on the platform 101, adapted to secure the vehicle based on vehicle type and positioning determined by the classification module to activate the clamping arrangement 109 for light vehicles; and
vi) a set of extendable vertical plates 110 configured to extend for heavy vehicles determined by the classification module, to create barriers ensuring vehicle stability during inspection and maintenance operation.
2) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein an image of the vehicle is captured upon positioning of the vehicle over the platform 101, and matched with a database to identify make, model, vehicle type, and application to optimize inspection parameters.
3) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a vehicle classification module linked with the inspection unit 111 uses image input to determine vehicle type.
4) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sliding rail 108 support inspection module 104 via a plurality of extendable bars 105, the inspection module 104 comprising:
i) an ultrasonic sensor 104a for crack detection;
ii) an IR sensor 104b for thermal mapping and identify abnormal temperature zones;
iii) a tire pressure sensor 104c configured to measure real-time air pressure in the tires and a data processing module configured to compute optimal tire pressure based on vehicle type, load, and terrain parameters: and
iv) an imaging unit 104d configured to detect visible surface damage including dents, paint degradation, and scratches.
5) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the clamping arrangement 109 is activated via a vertical piston and uses a horizontally connected pair of L-shaped plates on a sliding channel to adapt the clamping force based on the tire width.
6) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein an oil inspection unit 111 installed on the platform 101 comprises of an oil level sensor configured to measure oil volume, an oil density sensor adapted to determine oil density deviations from standard values and an oil quality sensor configured to detect contamination and evaluate viscosity of the oil
7) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sliding rail 108 further support maintenance unit 106 via a plurality of extendable links 107 configured to perform automated repair and operational assistance, the maintenance unit 106 comprising:
i) a welding unit 106a including an electrode configured to repair cracks by melting and fusing material at the damaged site based on the input received from the inspection unit 111;
ii) a clamping unit 106b comprising a spring-loaded actuator, configured to assist in maintenance operations by temporarily securing components, opening fuel tank caps, holding cracked parts during welding, and manipulating doors or other movable parts during inspection or repair tasks;
iii) a painting module 106c including multiple color chambers, electronic control valve (ECV) nozzles, and a motorized slider selectively moves ECV nozzles over target areas, and each nozzle includes an iris lid for controlled paint release; and
iv) a control processor configured to receive inputs from the inspection unit 111 and activate corresponding maintenance modules based on detected faults.
8) The system as claimed in claim 1, further comprising a 3D projection unit 112 configured to display a real-time 3D model of the vehicle, highlight detected issues, and show pre and post-repair comparisons.
9) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein machine learning protocols are trained on historical and real-time data from inspection module 104 to identify patterns of wear and predict failures, thus triggering early maintenance alerts on a user’s computing unit wirelessly linked with the system.
10) The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the computing unit allow users to access diagnostics, maintenance logs, alerts, and schedule tasks for vehicle maintenance.
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202521052741-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [30-05-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-05-30 |
| 2 | 202521052741-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [30-05-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-05-30 |
| 3 | 202521052741-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [30-05-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-05-30 |
| 4 | 202521052741-PROOF OF RIGHT [30-05-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-05-30 |
| 5 | 202521052741-POWER OF AUTHORITY [30-05-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-05-30 |
| 6 | 202521052741-FORM-9 [30-05-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-05-30 |
| 7 | 202521052741-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [30-05-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-05-30 |
| 8 | 202521052741-FORM 18 [30-05-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-05-30 |
| 9 | 202521052741-FORM 1 [30-05-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-05-30 |
| 10 | 202521052741-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [30-05-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-05-30 |
| 11 | 202521052741-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [30-05-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-05-30 |
| 12 | 202521052741-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [30-05-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-05-30 |
| 13 | 202521052741-EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION(S) [30-05-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-05-30 |
| 14 | 202521052741-DRAWINGS [30-05-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-05-30 |
| 15 | 202521052741-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [30-05-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-05-30 |
| 16 | 202521052741-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [30-05-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-05-30 |
| 17 | Abstract.jpg | 2025-06-18 |