DE102014226358A1 - Apparatus and method for detecting surface pollution of a vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a device and a method for determining a surface contamination, in particular on the surface of a vehicle (1). With at least one contamination sensor (4, 14), the contamination is detected optically or acoustically on at least one body component of the vehicle (1). Furthermore, a pollution warning device (2) is provided in order to evaluate the degree of soiling of the surface of the vehicle (1), in particular the surface of painted body components, on the basis of the contamination data detected by the contamination sensor (4, 14) in order to issue a washing recommendation if required ,

Description

The invention relates to a device and a method for determining a surface contamination, in particular the surface of a vehicle.

Various mechanical devices for preventing a surface fouling of a vehicle are known. The DE 2003 674 discloses a clear view tube for automobiles and aircraft that does not allow dirt or insect carrying air to the windshield by the overpressure built by the airstream. The DE 44 18 913 A1 , the DE 198 42 994 A1 , the DE 101 15 557 A1 , the DE 196 02 502 A1 . DE 298 02 524 U1 , the US 3,574,392 and the US 2,823,072 describe mechanical devices for directing the flow of air on a motor vehicle such that contamination is minimized and the contact pressure of windshield wipers and thus their cleaning performance are improved on a windshield of a motor vehicle.

Other mechanical cleaning devices, in particular for the removal of insects from a windshield of a motor vehicle are in the DE 102 50 874 A1 , of the DE 10 2009 012 136 A1 and the EP 1 547 882 A1 disclosed.

The DE 102 32 228 A1 , the DE 39 30 732 A1 and the EP 1 334 890 A2 describe window cleaning systems as wiping and / or washing devices or methods for operating a control device for such devices, wherein detected by means of a sensor, the degree of contamination of a windshield of a vehicle and the cleaning of the windshield is controlled accordingly.

The US Pat. No. 6,376,824 B1 describes an optical rain sensor, which is arranged on a windshield of a motor vehicle and also evaluates the degree of contamination of the windshield for controlling a wiper and / or washer.

In the DE 199 50 046 A1 and the US 2005/0206511 A1 An automatic windscreen cleaning system or a precipitation sensor for a motor vehicle is described, wherein the detecting sensor for the pollution or precipitation is a camera.

The DE 10 2012 204 028 A1 discloses a windshield cleaning system comprising a windshield cleaning device for a motor vehicle, wherein for cleaning a windshield, in particular the windshield on a position input device, the position of contamination can be entered and the windscreen cleaning device for cleaning the windscreen is controlled such that the targeted detected by the position input device Position on the disc is cleaned. In addition, a corresponding window cleaning method is described.

The present invention has for its object to provide an apparatus and a method for determining a surface contamination, in particular the surface of a vehicle, to ensure the value of the vehicle.

The object is achieved by a device and by a corresponding method according to the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments are specified in the respective subclaims.

The present invention relates to a device for detecting pollution on a vehicle, comprising
at least one pollution sensor, which is designed to optically or acoustically detect the contamination on at least one body component of the vehicle; and a pollution warning device, which is adapted to measure the degree of contamination of the surface of the vehicle, in particular of the surface, on the basis of the pollution data detected by the pollution sensor of painted bodywork components, to evaluate if necessary to issue a wash recommendation.

By creating such a device, the vehicle driver is given a washing recommendation for his vehicle for the first time. Such a washing recommendation serves to protect the surface of the vehicle and thus the value retention. Contamination particles, which can damage the coating located there after prolonged adhesion to the surface, are removed by cleaning if the washing recommendation is followed before any damage occurs. This serves in particular the value retention of the vehicle.

Another advantage is the saving of wash water and a cost reduction, since the vehicle driver of the vehicle by the targeted delivery of the wash recommendation can not clean his vehicle until the degree of pollution has exceeded a certain value. Thus, premature washing is avoided, thereby saving washing water, detergent, time, fuel for a ride to a car wash and associated with the washing costs.

With the invention, further traffic or advantageously other road users can advantageously be warned against contamination by insects, in particular against local insect swarms.

Preferably, a (stereo) camera is provided as a contamination sensor, which with its viewing direction can be arranged on a region of a surface of at least one body component.

Optical detection of contamination can be carried out very precisely.

Body components are components that form the body of a vehicle and have a surface that faces outward on the vehicle. Such body parts may consist of various materials, such. As metals (steel, aluminum, magnesium, etc.), plastic or glass. Body components affect the aerodynamics of a vehicle to which they are attached.

Examples of body components are fenders, hood, windshield, headlights, turn signals, front bumper or sill, grille, roof, rear and trunk lid, doors, side skirts, covers and other attachments or attachments.

In particular, the camera can be a stereo camera. Preferably, the camera has an optical analyzer that classifies a detected contamination. One class is preferably insect contamination. Other classes include, for example, bird droppings, road debris, and plant particles such as e.g. Resins, leaves, stems, fruits etc.

Insects or their residues, bird droppings and various plant particles react with paints and thereby cause damage to the painted surface of body components as opposed to road dust or grit. In addition to insects and bird droppings, there are also other contaminants which attack the paint of vehicles, such as Road salt.

To be able to detect insect contamination with the camera, in particular a stereo camera, an analysis of the shape and / or size of the dirt spot or residue of an insect can be carried out.

By detecting a contamination, in particular a type of contamination and / or a degree of contamination, the washing recommendation can be specified so that the value retention and also the above-mentioned savings can be further improved. The pollution can be caused in particular by insects. In particular, the number of insect residues and / or other contaminant particles on an area of a surface of at least one body component can be detected to detect the degree of contamination.

In a further embodiment of the device according to the invention, a microphone and / or a vibration sensor is provided as a contamination sensor. In this case, this pollution sensor can be coupled to the at least one body component such that it detects the structure-borne noise of the body component.

As a result, the degree of contamination of any body component is detectable, regardless of how the body component is formed or arranged - transparent, non-transparent, difficult to see with a camera. Thus, insects can be detected very precisely, even if the body component can not be detected by a camera.

Preferably, the contamination sensor embodied as a microphone or as a vibration sensor has a sound analysis device with which impact sound signals typical for contamination are detected. These sound signals are preferably classified, wherein in particular a class represents pollution by insects.

Bouncing insects or bird droppings can be caused by precipitation on the vehicle, such as rain. As rain, hail, snow and other objects such as grit etc., by the sound, the volume or the sound pulse and the frequency of the resulting sound signal can be distinguished. Preferably, the speed of the vehicle is taken into account in the analysis of the sound signals.

In addition, in the distinction between insect or bird droppings and precipitation, the outside temperature and / or the air pressure can be included, as often in a precipitation falling or low air temperature and a falling or low air pressure prevails. Weather information can also be accessed via the Internet, in particular rainfall information.

Classifying pollution as insect or bird droppings further improves the value retention and savings outlined above.

In a further embodiment of the device according to the invention, a contamination sensor is both a camera, in particular stereo. Camera, and provided for detecting structure-borne noise to a body component coupled microphone or coupled vibration sensor. The contamination warning device determines the temporal coincidence of the sound signal with a change of the detected image and assigns, if such a coincidence is detectable, both signals to each other.

By evaluating these two different types of sensors, the accuracy of the device with respect to detecting insect contamination is increased.

• – Uhrzeit,
• – Datum,
• – Position der Verschmutzung am Fahrzeug,
• – Ort des Fahrzeuges,
• – Geschwindigkeit des Fahrzeuges,
• – Abstand zu einem vorausfahrenden Fahrzeug,
• – Windgeschwindigkeit und/oder -richtung,
• – Luftdruck,
• – Außentemperatur.

In a further embodiment of the device according to the invention, the contamination warning device is designed such that one or more of the following parameters whose parameter values are detected at the time of occurrence of the contamination are assigned to a contamination detected by the at least one contamination sensor:

• Time,
• - date,
• - position of pollution on the vehicle,
• - location of the vehicle,
• - speed of the vehicle,
• - distance to a vehicle in front,
• Wind speed and / or direction,
• - air pressure,
• - outside temperature.

As a result, the information content of a detected contamination is improved.

The contamination information and the other parameters are particularly advantageous in a historical evaluation of the contamination data. They may be stored for this purpose, but also for other purposes, which are explained below, and / or transmitted via a communication connection.

In a further embodiment, the at least one contamination sensor is arranged such that it detects the contamination on a transparent body component. The transparent body components mainly include windshields and cover plates of headlamps.

As a result, the contamination sensor can be used simultaneously as a precipitation sensor. Furthermore, as a result of this, in the case of a camera, in particular a stereo camera, as a contamination sensor, this can be arranged by arranging it within the vehicle body, i. H. in the direction through the transparent body component to the outside, efficiently protected against environmental influences.

Preferably, the monitored by means of the pollution sensor body component is arranged on the vehicle in the direction of travel forward, so that it is exposed to the wind during a ride.

In a further embodiment of the device according to the invention, a precipitation sensor for detecting precipitation and / or washing water acting on the surface of the vehicle is provided.

This further improves the accuracy of the device in evaluating the degree of fouling of the surface of the vehicle by incorporating cleaning by precipitation or washing water. Furthermore, by washing, which is detected on the vehicle with this sensor, the device can be automatically reset to an initial value that does not correspond to contamination.

According to a further aspect of the present invention, a method for determining the contamination on vehicles is provided, in particular with the device explained above. In this case, contamination is detected optically or acoustically on at least one body component of a vehicle with at least one contamination sensor. With the pollution warning device, the degree of soiling of the surface of the vehicle, in particular the surface of painted body components, is evaluated on the basis of the contamination data detected by the contamination sensor in order to issue a washing recommendation if required.

In the case of an optical analysis of individual soiling spots, its contour is preferably detected and the individual contamination spots are evaluated on the basis of the contour or shape.

As a result, contamination by insects, bird droppings and plant particles can be recognized by their characteristic shape.

• – Niederschlag mit Dauer und/oder Menge,
• – Sonnenscheindauer und/oder -intensität,
• – Außentemperatur,
• – Einwirkdauer der Verschmutzungen auf den Lack (z. B. beim Parken),
• – Waschen einer Fahrzeugscheibe und/oder von Frontscheinwerfergläsern mittels Spritzwasser und Scheibenwischer,
• – Waschen des gesamten Fahrzeuges, und/oder
• – Waschen einer oder mehrerer Fahrzeugscheiben.

In addition, the following situations can be detected, classified and taken into account in the evaluation of the pollution:

• - precipitation with duration and / or quantity,
• - sunshine duration and / or intensity,
• - outside temperature,
• - exposure time of the contaminants to the paint (eg when parking),
• - Washing a vehicle window and / or headlight lenses by means of splash water and windscreen wipers,
• - Washing the entire vehicle, and / or
• - Washing one or more vehicle windows.

By taking into account the sunshine duration and / or intensity, the outside temperatures and the duration of exposure of the contaminants on the paint, z. As when parking, it is possible to spend a washing recommendation before insects, bird droppings and / or plant particles by a heat or sunlight effect on the painted surface of the vehicle.

As a result, the accuracy and reliability of the washing recommendation and thus the savings described above are further improved.

In a further embodiment of the method according to the invention, a history of the contamination events is recorded. This history is taken into account when determining the total degree of contamination.

Storing and taking into account the history of the fouling events improves the accuracy and reliability of the wash recommendation, and thus the savings possibilities discussed above.

Preferably, the contamination is detected at an area of the vehicle which is outside the area which can be cleaned by means of windshield wipers and spray water.

This simplifies the accuracy of evaluating the degree of fouling of the vehicle because the fouling is detected in an area of the vehicle that is not subject to cleaning while driving, and thus better represents the painted surfaces of the vehicle, which are not normally subjected to cleaning while driving , Here, the lower edge region of the windshield is particularly advantageous for detection, since the cleaning effect due to the splash water generated by the windshield wiper, as it may occur at the top of the windshield, is avoided.

In a further embodiment of the method according to the invention, in particular using the device explained above, with at least one contamination sensor, contamination is detected optically or acoustically on at least one body component of a vehicle. With the pollution warning device, the collision with a swarm of insects can be detected on the basis of the pollution data detected by the pollution sensor and the current vehicle speed.

As a result, an increased amount of insects can be detected. Such a detection is particularly advantageous for warning further traffic.

Preferably, such a collision is detected by means of further information, in particular weather data, e.g. to outside temperature, precipitation information, solar radiation, wind information and / or air pressure checked and possibly corrected.

By such a correction, the accuracy or reliability of the method according to the invention is further improved and precipitation events can be excluded. A falling or low outside temperature and a falling or low air pressure are an indication of precipitation, as already explained above.

In a further embodiment of the method according to the invention, contamination information and / or information about the frequency of insects is forwarded to other vehicles by means of car-2-car communication.

As a result, further traffic can be warned against an increased amount of insects. Thus, the safety on the road and the efficiency of the above-mentioned savings, especially in other vehicles, further improved.

The invention will be explained in more detail by way of example with reference to the drawings.

The drawings show in:

1 FIG. 2 schematically the structure of a device for determining a surface soiling, in particular of a vehicle, FIG.

2 schematically a vehicle with the device for detecting a surface contamination in a front view,

3 schematically the vehicle 2 in a side view,

4 a method for determining a surface contamination in a flowchart,

5 an alternative method of determining surface contamination in a flowchart,

6a - 6e schematically insect residues or soiling spots,

7 schematically insect debris or dirt spots on a bodywork component of a vehicle, and

8th Bodywork components of a vehicle schematically on different days and in different situations along with their pollution spots.

Hereinafter, a first embodiment of a device for determining the contamination of vehicles, especially motor vehicles, explained.

A motor vehicle 1 is with a pollution warning device 2 for detecting pollution on vehicles according to the first embodiment of the invention (see 1 . 2 . 3 ). The pollution warning device 2 has a central control device 3 which is a computer with a CPU memory device and appropriate interfaces.

The car 1 is with a camera 4 provided, which is arranged centrally on the upper edge of a windshield. The camera 4 is with the central controller 3 on which an image processing software module for analyzing by the camera 4 captured images and is executable.

The image processing software module extracts those with the camera 4 captured images dirt spots and makes them available for further processing. The camera 4 is on the motor vehicle 1 arranged such that their viewing direction obliquely down and in the direction of travel 5 is aligned to the front.

Such an orientation captures the camera 4 a hood 6 of the motor vehicle 1 ,

In the motor vehicle 1 is a storage device 7 provided with the central control device 3 is connected and on which a pollution database is stored, in which corresponding pollution pattern and further evaluation information for soiling of the motor vehicle 1 are stored. An assessment module that is in the central control 3 is stored and executable, reads the pollution pattern and the other evaluation information from the pollution database and evaluates the degree of pollution of the motor vehicle 1 ,

Furthermore, the central control device 3 with output devices in the form of a display device 8th (Optical output device) and a speaker 9 (Acoustic output device) connected in the interior of the motor vehicle 1 are located.

The camera 4 represents a pollution sensor according to the present invention, which provides pollution data, on the basis of which classifies a pollution and the degree of contamination of the surface of the motor vehicle 1 , in particular the surface of painted body parts, can be evaluated. The pollution database and the evaluation module constitute a pollution warning device in the sense of the present invention.

The following is a method for determining the pollution on vehicles, especially motor vehicles 1 , explained in more detail, which is carried out by means of the above-described device for determining the pollution ( 4 ).

The process starts in step S1. In step S2, the camera is used 4 a picture or with multiple cameras 4 captured multiple images. In the present embodiment is with the camera 4 a picture of the hood 6 of the motor vehicle 1 detected.

In the subsequent step S3, the captured image is subjected to image analysis by the evaluation module, wherein, depending on the viewing angle, the camera 4 to the hood 6 assumes that the captured image is equalized before the image analysis. In image analysis, the image data is examined for predetermined patterns or stains typical of certain soils. These contamination patterns mainly describe the shape, the color, the reflection properties, the thickness and / or the surface structure of the dirt stains. These contamination patterns are in the storage device 7 saved. On the basis of these pollution patterns, the pollution spots contained in the image are extracted and their type identified.

As types of dirt stains z. As insects, bird droppings, water spots, dust spots and other pollution spots distinguished.

Then follows the execution of step S4, in which the stain marks from the pollution warning device 2 be rated. The evaluation takes place on the basis of the memory device 7 with the respective pollution patterns stored pollution information, the degree of contamination of the surface and the associated risk for painting.

• 1. Den unterschiedlichen Typen der Verschmutzungsflecken sind unterschiedliche Verschmutzungswerte zugeordnet, wobei je höher der Verschmutzungswert ist, desto schädlicher ist die Verschmutzung für den Lack. Die Verschmutzungswerte sind für folgende Typen in absteigender Reihenfolge sortiert: Insekten, Vogelkot, Pflanzenpartikel, Streusalz, Teer, sonstige Verschmutzungsflecken wie Staubflecken, Wasserflecken.
• 2. Je dunkler der Verschmutzungsfleck ist, desto höher ist der Verschmutzungswert.
• 3. Je älter der Verschmutzungsfleck ist, desto höher ist der Verschmutzungswert
• 4. Je größer der Verschmutzungsfleck ist, desto höher ist der Verschmutzungswert.

The rating assigns a pollutant value to each fouling spot. The pollution value can be determined according to one or more of the following rules:

• 1. The different types of soiling spots are assigned different soiling values, the higher the soiling value, the more damaging the soiling of the paint. Pollution levels are sorted in descending order for the following types: insects, bird droppings, plant particles, road salt, tar, other soiling spots such as dust spots, water spots.
• 2. The darker the stain, the higher the stain value.
• 3. The older the stain, the higher the stain
• 4. The larger the fouling spot, the higher the fouling value.

Preferably, the individual pollution values are added to each other and / or multiplied or otherwise combined with each other to determine a total pollution value or degree of contamination.

Then, the process flow proceeds to the execution of step S5, in which it is checked whether the detected pollution degree is above a predetermined threshold value, and the predetermined threshold value can be adjusted by the vehicle operator according to its level of pollution-level acceptance. If the determined degree of contamination is above the predetermined threshold, then the execution of step S6 follows, in which on the display device 8th and / or on the speaker 9 a corresponding wash recommendation is issued.

Thereafter, step S7 is executed, in which it is checked whether the operation is to be continued. If the operation continues, then step S2 is executed again. If the operation does not continue, then the process ends in step S8.

If it is determined in step S5 that the determined contamination level is below the predetermined threshold value, then the method immediately proceeds to step S7.

After the execution of step S7, in addition, a pause (step S9) may be inserted before the step S2 is executed. This serves to minimize the accumulated image data and thus to minimize the computing power required for the image analysis and evaluation of the soiling spots. It is also conceivable to adjust the image balance of the degree of contamination at e.g. short trips preselected via the navigation system only at the start and destination location. Another alternative is the coupling to changing weather conditions. Thus, when rainfall, which is detected by a rain sensor or a local weather service is announced, the image recording can be increased or decreased according to the interval.

The above-explained device or the above-described method for determining the contamination on vehicles can be modified in various ways, these modifications being explained below. In 1 are the additional sensors of the modifications with a dashed line with the central control device 3 connected.

The camera 4 can also be designed as a stereo camera, the stereo camera consists of two camera modules. The use of such a stereo camera can improve the accuracy of the type determination of a stain spot by incorporating the thickness and / or surface pattern of the stain spot detected by the stereo camera into the type determination.

The camera 4 Can also work on other body parts than the hood 6 be aligned. This is the camera 4 on the body of the motor vehicle 1 arranged such that an alignment with the to be detected body part of the motor vehicle 1 is possible. For example. can the camera 4 at the front bumper of the motor vehicle 1 be arranged such that it detects the radiator grille or the front surface or sections of the front fender.

The camera 4 can also on body parts that are transparent, such as. B. headlight or windshield be aligned.

The camera 4 can be on the surface of the motor vehicle 1 be arranged so that it receives the body part to be detected from the outside, or within the motor vehicle 1 be arranged so that it receives the male transparent body component from the inside. A resulting advantage of the arrangement of the camera 4 in the interior of the motor vehicle 1 is that the camera 4 protected from weather and weather conditions. With interior are all cavities of the motor vehicle 1 meant, in particular the passenger compartment and the cavity of a headlight or turn signal.

The camera 4 can be arranged such that they are inside the motor vehicle 1 is integrated in a dashboard, and may be oriented so that it receives the windshield from the inside.

Additionally or alternatively, in a right front headlight 23 and / or a left headlights 24 of the motor vehicle 1 in each case such a camera 4 be integrated as in 2 and 3 shown. The cameras 4 are aligned in the direction of travel forward so that they are the headlight lenses of the headlights 23 . 24 from the inside. In the 2 and 3 These are in the headlights 23 . 24 integrated cameras 4 shown in dotted lines, as they are in reality by the hood 6 are hidden from the perspectives shown.

The camera 4 can also be designed such that it captures images by means of an infrared sensor to detect insect collisions even in the dark can.

The car 1 may have surface sections coming from the camera 4 can not be detected. The degree of contamination of such non-detectable surface sections can by the pollution warning device 2 however, estimated or extrapolated. The camera captures this 4 as explained above, a body component of the motor vehicle 1 , The pollution warning device 2 determines from this the degree of pollution. In essence, body component-specific parameters, such as the horizontal and vertical angle of attack in the direction of travel, determine 5 (Projection of the impact area with respect to the direction of travel 5 ), the vertical distance to the lane (preferred insect altitude), and the passing airflow at each body component, whether and how many insects hit the bodywork component during travel on a statistical average. The adhering to the body component air flow is subject to the influence of the speed of the motor vehicle 1 and the weather-related wind conditions. There are also other bodywork component specific parameters that affect the adherence of soil residues, particularly insects or bird droppings, and the airflow passing the particular body component, such as the roughness or coefficient of adhesion of the surface of the body panel. The body component-specific parameters, in particular the air flow conditions, are dependent on the different speeds of the motor vehicle 1 , precomputed for each body component and in the storage device 7 stored so that the pollution warning device 2 can access it. Here is the pollution warning device 2 additionally formed from the determined degree of contamination of the camera 4 detected body component taking into account the body component-specific parameters, the degree of contamination of any other body component of the motor vehicle 1 estimate or extrapolate. Represents the pollution warning device 2 when estimating or extrapolating the degree of soiling of the other body components that the degree of contamination of one of the body parts is greater than a predetermined threshold, then it gives a washing recommendation to the display device 8th and / or on the speaker 9 out.

• – Uhrzeit,
• – Datum,
• – Position der Verschmutzung am Fahrzeug,
• – Ort des Fahrzeuges,
• – Geschwindigkeit des Fahrzeuges,
• – Abstand zu einem vorausfahrenden Fahrzeug,
• – Windgeschwindigkeit und/oder –richtung,
• – Luftdruck,
• – Außentemperatur.

In addition, the pollution warning device 2 be designed to record the history of the pollution marks that have occurred. This will be one with the camera 4 detected pollution one or more of the following parameters whose parameter values are recorded at the time of the occurrence of the pollution:

• Time,
• - date,
• - position of pollution on the vehicle,
• - location of the vehicle,
• - speed of the vehicle,
• - distance to a vehicle in front,
• Wind speed and / or direction,
• - air pressure,
• - outside temperature.

The time and date are from the pollution warning device 2 from a clock (not shown) of the motor vehicle 1 read.

By means of the image analysis, which is explained above, the position of the pollution or the dirt spot on the motor vehicle 1 extracted. It can be identified at any time via the position data of the soiling spot.

The place where the motor vehicle 1 is located by a navigation system 10 detected, which is preferably designed as a satellite navigation system and the central control device 3 connected is. About this data connection, the central control device 3 the location coordinates of the navigation system 10 query at any time.

The speed of the vehicle is determined by a speed sensor 11 , which can be designed as a speedometer or in any other form detected. The central control device 3 is with the speed sensor 11 connected and can over this data connection the speed of the motor vehicle 1 query at any time.

A distance measuring device 12 keeping the distance to preceding vehicles 1 measures is with the central control device 3 connected. About this data connection, the central control device 3 the distance to a preceding vehicle 1 from the distance measuring device 12 query at any time. The distance measuring device 12 Can be used as a radar system, ultrasound system, lidar system, or stereo Run-time camera or other system determining the distance to a vehicle ahead or as a combination of these systems to improve the accuracy of the distance measurement, be formed. About the distance measurement, the pollution warning device 2 determine whether there is a slipstream, and in a slipstream, include the intensity of the air turbulence and the size of the wake turbulence through the fore vehicle in the assessment or extrapolation of the degree of pollution.

The central control device 3 is via a data connection, which is designed according to a radio standard, with the Internet 13 connected. Over the internet 13 accesses the central control device 3 on weather data and can this at any time for the location of the vehicle by the navigation system 10 is provided, interrogate. As weather data in particular the wind speed and / or direction, the air pressure and / or the outside temperature of the central control device 3 queried. However, the mentioned weather parameters can also be achieved by suitable sensors, which are on the motor vehicle 1 are determined. For example, the wind speed of the side wind may be detected by a crosswind sensor (not shown), the air pressure may be determined by an air pressure sensor (not shown). The outside temperature can be detected by means of an outside temperature sensor (not shown). With the wind speed and / or direction can be on the motor vehicle 1 prevailing airflow ratios already discussed above.

Also, the wind speed and / or direction has an influence on the insect flight behavior. The prevailing air pressure and the outside temperature also affect the insect flight behavior. In particular, these parameters can influence the activity and thus the frequency of flight of insects as well as their altitude and flight direction.

Other data describing the weather, such as precipitation with duration and / or amount, sunshine duration and / or intensity, etc., can from the central control device 3 also from the internet 13 or via suitable, on the motor vehicle 1 attached sensors, in particular weather sensors, are determined. For example, a rain sensor for precipitation detection may be provided as the weather sensor, as well as a weather sensor for detecting the sunshine. As a sensor for detecting the ambient brightness, a light sensor may be provided. Both mentioned weather parameters can also be used with the camera 4 or another suitable weather sensor.

Occurring precipitation and the ambient brightness related to the time of day also exert an influence on the activity and thus frequency of flight of insects. For example, insects avoid flying in precipitation, while increased insect flight is expected at dusk. Corresponding parameter values can thus be detected, stored, retrieved and / or used for control.

Preferably, the detected parameter values for each fouling spot in the memory device become 7 stored, preferably associated with an identification identifier and the detected pollution type. By storing this history of the stains, the information content of a detected stain or a detected stain is improved. With the help of this history of soiling spots, the pollution warning device becomes 2 a more accurate estimation or extrapolation of the degree of contamination of the motor vehicle 1 allows.

The action of water, especially in the form of a precipitate, such as rain, hail, sleet and snow, or in the form of wash water, on the body has an additional effect on the degree of soiling of the motor vehicle 1 , wherein the degree of contamination is reduced by such action of water. So the pollution warning device 2 is allowed to take into account this reduction in the degree of contamination in estimating or extrapolating, and in particular in managing the history of the pollution data, a detection of the action of water and an identification of the various situations is provided, as explained below.

A car wash of the motor vehicle 1 in a car wash, where the entire motor vehicle 1 is cleaned while it is moved through the washing line can be detected by evaluating a signal of the rain sensor, with which the impingement of water is signaled, and a speed signal of the speed sensor, if the speed signal at least for a predetermined time of preferably at least 1 min , is below a predetermined threshold of preferably 3 km / h. Other sensors whose signals can be evaluated are, for example, a transmission sensor that detects idling, an engine sensor that detects an engine with the ignition switched on, a windshield wiper sensor that detects a windshield wiper that is not in operation, an occupant sensor (eg pressure mats in the seats) , Seat belt sensors, motion detectors, additionally in conjunction with door sensors, the opening or Closing the doors and thus leaving the motor vehicle 1 detected by the occupants, etc.), which detects a vehicle driver in the vehicle, a steering wheel sensor, which detects that the driver has not placed his hands on the steering wheel, and / or a steering angle sensor or steering wheel sensor, which detects no steering angle especially when the engine is idling ,

Additionally or alternatively, further sensor signals can be evaluated for improved recognition of the car wash in a car wash, such as the signals of the above-described systems for distance measurement, which detect whether the motor vehicle 1 located in a building, and / or a temperature signal of a precipitation temperature sensor (not shown), which is arranged such that it detects the temperature of the impinging water, since washing water often has a temperature difference from the outside temperature. While wash water often has a temperature that at least corresponds to the outside temperature, rainfall is colder than the outside temperature. The outside temperature is determined with the outside temperature sensor, as explained above.

To a car wash of the motor vehicle 1 in a car wash, esp. Portal car wash, in which the entire motor vehicle 1 is cleaned in the state, recognize and from a standing of the motor vehicle 1 to distinguish in the precipitation, in addition to the evaluation of the signal of the rain sensor, with which the impingement of water is signaled, as well as the speed signal of the speed sensor, if the speed signal is equal to 0 km / h, the evaluation of the signals of other sensors needed. Such signals are, for example, the temperature signals of the precipitation temperature sensor and the outside temperature sensor, which are explained above.

Additionally or alternatively, for improved detection of car wash in a car wash, esp. Portal car wash, further sensors are evaluated, such as the transmission sensor, which detects idling, the engine sensor, which detects an engine with the ignition off, the windshield wiper sensor, the detects a non-operational windscreen wiper, the occupant sensor (eg pressure mats in the seats, seat belt sensors, motion detectors, in addition in conjunction with door sensors, the opening or closing of the doors and thus leaving the vehicle 1 detected by the occupants, etc.) that does not recognize a driver in the vehicle, a steering wheel sensor that detects that the driver has not placed his hands on the steering wheel, a steering angle sensor or steering wheel sensor that detects no steering angle, and / or the systems discussed above for distance measurement, which detect whether the motor vehicle 1 located in a building.

After washing in the car wash or gantry car wash, or at the latest the next time you press the ignition, the camera will let you in 4 captured image recognize that the pollution spots have been removed. This can be done by the pollution warning device 2 be evaluated.

From a vehicle speed of equal to or more than the above-explained threshold of 3 km / h, a washing process can be excluded upon detection of impinging water by means of the rain sensor and it is detected a ride in the precipitation or a precipitation drive. Additionally or alternatively, further sensor signals can be evaluated here for improved detection of the precipitation travel, such as the signals of the above-described systems for distance measurement, which detect whether the motor vehicle 1 located outside a building. Other sensors whose signals can be evaluated are, for example, the transmission sensor, which detects an engaged gear, the engine sensor, which detects that the engine reaches an operating speed, the windscreen wiper sensor, which detects an in operation windscreen wiper, and / or the occupant sensor, which recognizes a vehicle driver and one or more further occupants in the vehicle.

Another occurring case is the washing of a vehicle window, for example at a gas station. This situation is similar to the car wash in the car wash, esp. Portal car wash, so that the above explained in the explanation of the detection of the car wash sensors can be used. In order to distinguish the washing of a vehicle window, in which each vehicle window is cleaned individually and successively, of the car wash in a car wash, esp. Portal car wash, in which the entire motor vehicle 1 is wetted with water, a second rain sensor (eg., At the rear window of the motor vehicle 1 ), which detects a precipitate or water, but this event is not in temporal coincidence with the detection of water through the existing rain sensor, which is preferably arranged on the windscreen.

Additionally or alternatively, with the camera 4 and / or the navigation system 10 be recognized before the respective washing process that the motor vehicle 1 moved to the gas station, the car wash or portal car wash.

In a driving rain increases the pollution of the motor vehicle 1 slightly off. The decrease in the degree of soiling is from the pollution warning device 2 through the evaluation of the camera images of the camera 4 in particular using the previously stored historical data, since the dirt spots can be uniquely referenced with their position.

Next is the pollution warning device 2 adapted to the degree of contamination after or during a precipitation drive on the basis of the rainfall sensor measured rainfall amount and / or duration including the in the memory device 7 stored body-specific parameters and the history of the pollution spots, which is explained below, to determine via an estimate or extrapolation.

Preferably, the pollution warning device extinguishes 2 after a car wash of the entire motor vehicle 1 the history of the pollution data, since it is expected that in such a car wash the pollution spots of the body parts of the motor vehicle 1 be removed and thus no longer exists in the history stored pollution spots.

Should the pollution warning device 2 If one of the above-explained situations can not be determined beyond doubt, it can use the display device 8th ask the driver to visually inspect the vehicle 1 execute and / or enter further information that the degree of contamination of the motor vehicle 1 and / or relate to the history of the weather or washing information. For this purpose, the display device 8th designed to receive input. In this case, the query can be made in the vehicle driver such that the pollution warning device 2 asks if the motor vehicle 1 was completely put into a clean state or whether only specific body parts were cleaned, z. B. by a selection menu with body parts on the display device 8th fades. In addition, the pollution warning device 2 in such a query to ask the driver to indicate whether the pollution history for the remaining, not cleaned surfaces should be stored or saved or is to be deleted. Deletion of the contamination history corresponds to zeroing or resetting of the contamination warning device 2 ,

The above-explained sensor signals for detecting the car wash, the precipitation drive or the Scheibenwaschtätigkeit can by the pollution warning device 2 individually or in combination, to increase the accuracy or reliability of detection, are evaluated.

Hereinafter, a second embodiment of a device for determining the contamination of vehicles, especially motor vehicles, explained.

This embodiment is similar in construction to the first embodiment, and includes the same devices, devices, devices, etc., wherein the same reference numerals are used for like parts. In 1 are additional sensors of the second embodiment with a dotted line with the central control device 3 connected.

The central control device 3 is additionally equipped with a microphone / vibration sensor 14 connected. This sensor can be used together with the camera 4 on the motor vehicle 1 be provided. The camera 4 but can also be omitted.

The microphone or the vibration sensor 14 is preferably from the inside to a body component of the motor vehicle 1 arranged such that the structure-borne noise or the vibration of an object impinging on the body component is detected. Insects, bird droppings, rain or other objects that hit the body component, differ by the sound, the volume or the sound pulse, the frequency of the resulting sound signal or whether the sound signal is permanently present over a predetermined period of time.

The volume or the sound pulse as well as the frequency depend on the vehicle speed. The higher the speed of the motor vehicle 1 is, the higher or greater is the volume or the sound pulse of an impinging object and the more common meeting insects on the motor vehicle 1 on.

Corresponding sound or vibration patterns are associated with the information describing an incident object, such as speed-dependent volume or speed-dependent sound pulse, a threshold for the average frequency or a value for the predetermined period for measuring the permanence, in the memory device 7 storable. By reading this data it becomes the pollution warning device 2 makes it possible to determine the type of the object striking the body component by an analysis of the sound signals by means of pattern matching and additionally taking into account the further information associated therewith. In this case, preferably the speed of the motor vehicle 1 With considered. The speed of the motor vehicle 1 can the pollution warning device 2 at any time from the speed sensor 11 query with which it is connected via a data connection.

In addition, in the distinction between insect or bird droppings and precipitation, the outside temperature and / or the air pressure can be included, as often in a precipitation falling or low air temperature and a falling or low air pressure prevails. Weather information can be obtained via the above-mentioned (weather) sensors as well as over the internet 13 be accessed, in particular information on precipitation.

In addition, further microphones or vibration sensors can be used on a body component 14 be arranged. The fact that further such sensors detect the structure-borne noise of the body component upon impact of an object, the reliability and accuracy of the detection can be increased and by measuring the transit time or the transit time difference of the sound signal in the body component, the impact position of the object and thus the position of the pollution motor vehicle 1 detect.

By the arrangement of the microphone / vibration sensor 14 to a body component, it is possible, each body component, including one that is not through a camera 4 is detectable and to determine the degree of contamination of these body components.

Acoustic interference signals inside or outside the motor vehicle 1 can be generated, such as sound signals from a music system or wind noise, by detecting the interference signal and subtraction with that of the microphone / vibration sensor 14 detected sound signal are hidden.

This is the pollution warning device 2 with interior microphones, external microphones and / or a radio or music system (all not shown) directly connected.

The microphone or the vibration sensor 14 represents a pollution sensor according to the present invention, which provides pollution data, on the basis of which classifies a pollution and the degree of contamination of the surface of the motor vehicle 1 , in particular the surface of painted body parts, can be evaluated.

The following is a method for determining the pollution on vehicles, especially motor vehicles 1 , Explained in more detail, by means of the above-described device for determining the pollution, in particular at least one microphone / vibration sensor 14 as a pollution sensor is executed.

The process starts in step S11. In step S12, the microphone / vibration sensor is used 14 detected an impact signal. The impact signal is the structure-borne noise, which is on a body component to which the microphone or the vibration sensor 14 is arranged, is generated by the impact of an object. Are on the monitored body component several microphones / vibration sensors 14 arranged, then the running time or the transit time difference of the sound signal resulting from the impact of the object by comparing the different microphones / vibration sensors 14 obtained data are determined. This allows the position of the impact of the object on the motor vehicle 1 determine.

In the subsequent step S13, the detected impact signal is subjected to impact signal analysis by the evaluation module. Here, the acoustic data are examined for predetermined acoustic patterns that are typical of certain contaminants. These acoustic patterns describe, among other things, the sound, the volume or the sound pulse of a sound signal resulting from an impact. These acoustic patterns are in the memory device 7 saved. On the basis of these acoustic patterns, the detected impact signal is examined and the type of impacted object is identified. As types of hit objects z. As insects, bird droppings, precipitation and other objects.

Then follows the execution of step S14, in which the pollution warning device 2 checks whether a relevant contamination signal has been identified. Relevant pollution signals are impact signals generated by the impact of an insect or bird droppings.

If a relevant fouling signal has been detected, execution of step S15 follows, in which the fouling data already stored from the impact signal is added. The dirty data is in the memory device 7 saved.

In the subsequent step S16, the degree of contamination is determined on the basis of the stored contamination data. The evaluation takes place on the basis of the memory device 7 with the respective acoustic pattern of stored pollution information, the expected Pollution degree of the surface and the associated risk for painting.

Then, the procedure goes to step S17, in which it is checked whether the detected pollution degree is above a predetermined threshold.

If this is the case, then the execution of step S18 follows, in which on the display device 8th and / or on the speaker 9 a corresponding wash recommendation is issued.

Thereafter, step S19 is executed, in which it is checked whether the operation is to be continued. If the operation continues, then step S12 is executed again. If the operation does not continue, then the process ends in step S20.

If it is determined in step S14 that no relevant contamination signal has been detected, then the method immediately proceeds to step S19.

If it is determined in step S17 that the detected contamination level is below the predetermined threshold value, then the method immediately proceeds to step S19. Can the pollution alarm 2 in step S13 perform no unique determination of the type of impacted object, it may in addition to the pattern recognition include other parameters in the sound signal analysis, such. B. in the storage device 7 stored information on the frequency or permanence of the sound signals. To do this, check the contamination warning device 2 for a plurality of sound signals occurring, whether the frequency of the sound signals below or above the threshold and / or the sound signals over the predetermined period permanently present or not.

If the frequency of the sound signals is above the threshold value or if the sound signals are permanently present over the predetermined period of time, then the contamination warning device recognizes 2 a precipitate. If the frequency of the sound signals is below the threshold value or if the sound signals are not permanently present over the predetermined period of time, then the contamination warning device can 2 evaluate further information, in particular the weather information explained above, such as outside temperature and / or air pressure in order to be able to distinguish between a swarm of insects and a precipitate.

A detected precipitate is considered to be cleansing and reduces the determined degree of contamination.

In a further embodiment of a device according to the invention, the explained pollution sensors, such as camera 4 and at least one microphone / vibration sensor 14 to combine with each other. This makes it the pollution warning device 2 allows, provided the camera 4 and that at least a microphone / vibration sensor 14 monitor the same body component to determine the temporal coincidence of a sound signal with a change in the captured image. If the pollution warning device 2 If such a coincidence is established, it assigns both signals to each other. Such an assignment makes it possible, on the one hand, to increase the accuracy or reliability of the determination of the degree of contamination and, on the other hand, to calibrate the at least one microphone / vibration sensor 14 on the basis of the camera 4 detected pollution spots.

In addition, the pollution warning device 2 with an antenna (not shown) for radio communication according to a car-2-car standard of the pollution warning device 2 with other pollution warning devices 2 other motor vehicles 1 be connected. The pollution warning device 2 is then further configured to alert other pollution alarms upon detecting a collision with a swarm of insects 2 other motor vehicles 1 to pass on in a close range. The other pollution alarms 2 show this warning on their display devices 8th and / or give this warning over their speakers 9 out. Additionally or alternatively, the pollution warning device 2 designed to transfer all collected data to other pollution warning devices 2 pass on the car-2-car communication.

Additionally or alternatively, the pollution warning device 2 trained to receive alerts and / or all collected data via the internet 13 to other pollution warning devices 2 and / or to a central server (not shown) for the purpose of evaluating the collected data.

Are the collected data from the respective pollution warning devices 2 of different motor vehicles 1 passed to the central server, then any pollution warning device 2 with the help of the navigation system 10 ascertained routes to be traveled up to a specific destination point from the central server, whether and how much insect flight is to be expected on the route to be traveled. This information gives the pollution warning device 2 then on the display device 8th and / or the speaker 9 out.

By car-2-car communication or communication with a central server, further traffic can be warned against an increased amount of insects. Thus, the safety on the road and the efficiency of the above-mentioned savings, especially in other vehicles, further improved.

Residues of insects after their collision with a body component have characteristic features which are already explained above.

Such insect residues or soiling spots are in the 6a to 6e shown schematically. An initially elliptical body 15 represents the point of impact of the insect on the body component. Optionally located on the elliptical body 15 trailing secretion 16 , The insect residue is blurred, worn and / or bleached by the action of water and / or the mechanical action of a windshield wiper.

In 6a is an insect residue immediately after the impact of an insect on a body component of the motor vehicle 1 shown.

In 6b is the same insect residue as in 6a shown after a mechanical action by the windshield wiper has taken place.

In 6c is the same insect residue, as in 6a shown after exposure to water.

In the 6d and 6e the same insect residue is shown in 6a is shown after a mechanical action by the windscreen wiper and an impact of water on the insect residue has taken place. Here is the in 6d shown insect residue at an earlier time than shown in 6e shown insect residue. It can be seen that the in 6e shown insect residue areal smaller than in 6d is shown because the stain was eroded over time.

The above-mentioned insect residues or soiling spots are in 7 , together with their respective related information, such as date, time, location, where the motor vehicle 1 was at the occurrence of the dirt spot, and position where the dirt spot on a windshield 17 of the motor vehicle 1 is shown schematically.

In 8th are body parts of the motor vehicle 1 shown schematically on different days and in different situations along with their pollution spots, showing a sequence of the different days. Here are the hood 6 , the windshield 17 , a front apron 18 under the bonnet 6 is arranged, a right outside mirror 19 and a left side mirror 20 of the motor vehicle 1 shown.

Here, the body components shown schematically represent a selection of the body parts of the motor vehicle 1 which are exposed to the wind.

In other vehicles or power vehicles, especially vans or trucks, in addition other body parts, such as end faces, etc., may be shown and / or omitted from the selection body parts listed.

The weather on the day is indicated by a corresponding weather symbol 21 . 22 represented, whereby for a day with sunshine a weather symbol sun 21 and for a day with rainfall a weather cloud icon 22 are shown.

The timing starts on day 1, at which there are already various dirt spots on the body components shown and on which the sun shines.

On day 2, a rainfall occurs and on the windshield 17 The windscreen wipers are activated so that dirt spots that were still present in the field of vision or wiping area on day 1 are partially or completely removed.

On day 3, which follows day 2, the sun shines again, and as a result of the precipitation that occurred on day 2, it can be seen that some of the pollution spots on day 1 are faded.

On the following days 4 to 6 the sun will shine again and due to insect flying there will be more dirt spots on the body parts.

On the following day 7, which again has sunny weather, the windscreen 17 cleaned on the way by the driver so that there are no more dirt spots on it.

On days 8 to 34 is the motor vehicle 1 parked in a garage, so for those days in the 8th no representation takes place.

The car 1 is moved again on day 35, which in turn has sunny weather, with added insect dirt more spots on the body parts. The degree of soiling of the bodywork components is on that day by the pollution warning device 2 judged so that it issues a washing recommendation. In addition to the degree of soiling, the duration of action on the paint also plays a significant role in this.

On the following day 36, which in turn has sunny weather, a car wash of the motor vehicle takes place on the basis of the washing recommendation 1 by the vehicle driver, so that all body parts no longer have spots of dirt.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

motor vehicle

2

Pollution warning device

3

Central control device

4

camera

5

direction of travel

6

Engine Hood

7

memory device

8th

display

9

speaker

10

navigation system

11

speed sensor

12

Distance measuring device

13

Internet

14

Microphone / vibration sensor

15

elliptical body

16

secretion

17

Windshield

18

front apron

19

right side mirror

20

left side mirror

21

Weather symbol sun

22

Weather icon cloud

23

right front headlight

24

left front headlight

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

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• US Pat. No. 2,823,072 [0002]
• DE 10250874 A1 [0003]
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• EP 1547882 A1 [0003]
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• EP 1334890 A2 [0004]
• US 6376824 B1 [0005]
• DE 19950046 A1 [0006]
• US 2005/0206511 A1 [0006]
• DE 102012204028 A1 [0007]

Claims (19)

Device for detecting pollution on a vehicle ( 1 ), comprising at least one pollution sensor ( 4 . 14 ), which is designed to visually or acoustically on at least one body component of the vehicle, the pollution ( 1 ) and a pollution warning device ( 2 ), which is designed to be based on the with the pollution sensor ( 4 . 14 ) records the degree of soiling of the surface of the vehicle ( 1 ), in particular the surface of painted body parts, in order to issue a washing recommendation if required. Apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that as a pollution sensor ( 4 . 14 ) a camera ( 4 ) is provided, which can be arranged with its viewing direction on an area of a surface of at least one body component. Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the camera ( 4 ) has an optical analyzer that classifies a detected contamination, preferably a class representing insect contamination. Device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that as a pollution sensor ( 4 . 14 ) a microphone and / or a vibration sensor ( 14 ), this pollution sensor ( 4 . 14 ) is coupled to the at least one body component such that it detects the structure-borne noise of the body component. Device according to Claim 4, characterized in that the contamination sensor (designed as a microphone or as a vibration sensor ( 14 ) has a sound analysis device, with which typical acoustic signals for contamination detected and classified, in particular a class is a pollution by insects. Device according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that as a pollution sensor both a camera ( 4 ) as well as a microphone coupled to detect body sound to a body component or coupled vibration sensor ( 14 ), and the pollution warning device ( 2 ) determines the temporal coincidence of a sound signal with a change of the captured image and if such a coincidence is detectable, both signals to each other. Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the pollution warning device ( 2 ) is designed such that one with the at least one pollution sensor ( 4 . 14 ) are assigned to one or more of the following parameters whose parameter values are recorded at the time of occurrence of the pollution: - time, - date, - position of pollution on the vehicle ( 1 ), - location of the vehicle ( 1 ), - speed of the vehicle ( 1 ), - distance to a vehicle in front ( 1 ), - Wind speed and / or direction - Air pressure, - Outdoor temperature. Device according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the at least one pollution sensor ( 4 . 14 ) is arranged such that it detects the contamination on a transparent body component. Device according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that by means of the pollution sensor ( 4 . 14 ) monitored body component on the vehicle ( 1 ) in the direction of travel ( 5 ) is arranged such that it is exposed to the wind during a trip. Device according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that a precipitation sensor for detecting precipitation and / or washing water, which on the surface of the vehicle ( 1 ) is provided, is provided. Vehicle ( 1 ), characterized by a device according to one of claims 1 to 10. Method for determining pollution on a vehicle ( 1 ), in particular with a device according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein with at least one pollution sensor ( 4 . 14 ) a contamination visually or acoustically on at least one body component of the vehicle ( 1 ) and with the pollution warning device ( 2 ) on the basis of the pollution sensor ( 4 . 14 ), the degree of pollution of the surface of the vehicle ( 1 ), in particular the surface of painted bodywork components, is evaluated in order to issue a washing recommendation if required. A method according to claim 12, characterized in that in an optical analysis of individual soiling spots whose contour is detected and the contour of the individual pollution spots are evaluated. Method according to claim 12 or 13, characterized that the following situations are recorded, classified and taken into account in the evaluation of the pollution: - precipitation with duration and / or quantity, - sunshine duration and / or intensity, - outside temperature, - exposure time of the contaminants to the paint (eg when parking) - washing a vehicle window and / or headlamp lenses by means of splash water and windshield wipers, - washing the entire vehicle ( 1 ), and / or - washing one or more vehicle windows. Method according to one of claims 12 to 14, characterized in that a history of the pollution events is recorded and taken into account in the determination of a total degree of contamination. Method according to one of claims 12 to 15, characterized in that the pollution at an area of the vehicle ( 1 ) is detected, which is outside of the cleanable by means of windscreen wiper and spray water area. Method for determining pollution on vehicles ( 1 ), in particular with a device according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein with at least one pollution sensor ( 4 . 14 ) a contamination visually or acoustically on at least one body component of a vehicle ( 1 ) and with the pollution warning device ( 2 ) on the basis of the pollution sensor ( 4 . 14 ) detected pollution data and the current driving speed, the collision with a swarm of insects is detected. A method according to claim 17, characterized in that such a collision counter-checked by means of further information such as weather data and if necessary. Corrected. Method according to one of claims 12 to 18, characterized in that pollution information and / or information about the frequency of insects by means of car-2-car communication to other vehicles ( 1 ) to get redirected.

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