DE102007020991B4 - Vehicle identification device - Google Patents

Abstract

A vehicle identification device for identifying a vehicle (30) involved in an accident, the device comprising:
at least one container (2);
a plurality of identification elements (28) having identification information and stored inside the container (2), each identification element (28) carrying unique information and / or carrying a subset of unique information that can be used in combination with other identification elements (28 ) represents a unique information; and
a control device (4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 18, 20) with:
an accident detection unit; and
a release device (4, 6, 8, 10, 12) for release at least
a part of the identification elements (28) from the container (2).

Description

The The invention relates to an identification device for vehicles. In particular, the invention relates to a vehicle identification device for support the identifiability of a vehicle involved in an accident.

at traffic accidents it happens again and again that accident causer - aware or unconsciously - with unlawfully remove their vehicle from an accident site. At the enlighten the offense leaves prosecution authorities the only option by analyzing the tracks and by witnessing the vehicle and to identify its holder. However, this search comes up often as elaborate, time-consuming and expensive and often remains due to lack of evidence and witnesses unsuccessful. Especially with accidents with At low speeds, many offenses remain unpunished, as the costs for the investigations exceed the damage caused many times over would. simultaneously the vehicles stay in accidents almost always suitable for driving at a low speed, while at higher Speeds the vehicle is usually so damaged that an escape from Accident location impossible is.

It It is known that vehicles after an accident by the electronics can be blocked. consequently is also here an unauthorized removal from the accident impossible. These solution however, has some disadvantages. With moving vehicles is sufficient Do not block the vehicle, in addition, would have a technically complex Braking be initiated to the occupants of the vehicle is not to endanger. Also blocking an already standing Vehicle can, for. B. on highways or confusing places to a danger for the inmates and other road users become.

Also revealed DE 195 32 024 A1 a method for detecting a triggering of a safety system, in particular in a motor vehicle. The described method is characterized in that at the time the safety system is triggered by means of a marking device, a marking is applied to the roadway. The marking device contains for this purpose a shot gun and a container for marking projectiles. The triggering of the marking device by means of a control device having a drive line. The drive line is connected to a control device of a security system and a release device of the marking device. As soon as a signal is supplied to the drive line, a valve of the release device opens, so that the marking projectiles located in the container are shot onto the roadway by means of the firing apparatus.

It Object of the invention, a vehicle identification device provide an identifiability of all vehicles involved in an accident allows.

The Task is solved with the features of claim 1 and 17, respectively.

advantageous Embodiments are the subject of dependent claims.

According to claim 1 becomes the identifiability of a person involved in an accident Vehicle provided a vehicle identification device. The vehicle identification unit here has at least one container, a plurality of identification elements and a control device.

The Identifiers have information that is unique Allow identification of the vehicle. In this case, each identification element a complete, have clear information and / or the uniqueness of Information is provided by a combination of several identification elements achieved, each only a part of the unique information wear. The identification elements are stored inside the container, preferably between 100 and 5000 pieces are in a container.

To the Releasing the identification elements in the event of an accident is used a control device having an accident detection unit and a Release device has. The accident detection unit detects an accident and controls the enabling device that designed so is that it releases at least part of the identification elements. The identification elements thus remain at the scene of the accident and can due to the big Number not complete without problems be collected. In the case of a driver's escape are now the necessary information to the vehicle involved in the accident to identify with little effort.

As identification information on the identification elements, various data are possible. The vehicle identification number, the license plate of the vehicle or even the chassis number, for example, information that clearly identify each vehicle and can also be used here for the purpose of identification, as can be easily determined by means of central directories and the associated holder of a vehicle , Alternatively, however, a new, independent of the previously mentioned options information can be used as long as the se an assignment to a vehicle and / or its holder allows. The identification elements can carry both a single piece of information as well as a combination of several pieces of information.

When Identification elements can All materials are used that are suitable for information save. Preferred embodiments are made of solid materials such as plastic, metal or paper. The vehicle identifying information can hereby for example, on the surface shaped the identification elements and / or printed. Alternatively, this information stands out the surface out and thus provide the desired by a sublime font Information available.

alternative can as an information carrier too Liquids, such as dyes, are used. The information can Here are coded by different dyes, wherein a unique combination of different dyes Information can be created. liquids offer the advantage that once they have been delivered, they only extremely difficult completely again can be removed and thus can not be easily removed after an accident.

Regardless of which State of aggregation the material used should be on it ensure that the identification elements are low in pollutants are. Particularly advantageous materials are degraded environmentally friendly can be.

The Identification elements should be designed to last for at least one week, preferably at least one month and especially preferred protected against environmental influences, acids or bases for at least six months and thus the information stored on it is not lost walk. In a further embodiment decompose the information elements or the information contained on them after a maximum of two years, preferably after a maximum of one year and more preferably after a maximum of seven months after its release. This process can be done for example by a non-UV resistant Material can be achieved and allows identification elements from earlier accidents in the same place easily from new identification elements differ.

The Identification elements in a container preferably have different Shapes, colors and / or sizes. For example, offer spherical Identification elements have the advantage that they roll away from the scene of the accident can and thus enlarge the area over the distribute the identification elements. The bigger the Range, the harder the identification elements can be Completely collect. Square identification elements remain at the scene of the accident lie and allow determining the exact location of the accident.

The Identification elements have different colors. Colours, which is complementary to Underground and surroundings are leading to a quick find. At the same time, however, it is desirable that not all Identification element easily found by the accident causer can be this is not the possibility to collect all the elements and then unauthorized to remove from the scene of the accident. Different colors ensure that at least a part of the identification elements a similar Color as the ground or the environment exhibit and thus only be found after intensive search.

Also the size can vary with the individual identification elements. As special Advantageously, identification elements with 5 to 8 different Sizes per container exposed and with a maximum of 15 cm, preferably a maximum of 5 cm and more preferably at most 3 cm and / or at least 5 microns, preferably at least 1 mm, and more preferably at least 2 mm. Similar to of different color, small elements are heavy or only through appropriate optical devices to find while size Elements are easier to find. The division of the total number which is in a container located identification elements on the different sizes can differ. For example, an equal distribution is conceivable. If the available standing space is low, but it may also be useful to do that Ratio of to increase smaller elements, one as possible size Total number of elements in the container too store, so that in the case of an accident as many identification elements remain and thus an identification can be ensured.

The Labeling of the identification elements is of course in Relationship to the size of the elements. at smaller identification elements must therefore use a smaller font size so that all information can be stored. at larger elements can also larger font sizes be used.

The weight of the identification elements may vary depending on the material used and the resulting density and the different size of the identification elements. Advantageously, a weight of at least 1 g per element, preferably of at least 3 g and more preferably of at least 8 g per identification element has proven to be the case with the use of light identification elements is that they can be carried away by wind and rain too far away from the scene of the accident or washed away and thus unusable for the identification of a vehicle or only limited useful.

Of the container the vehicle identification device has in a preferred embodiment a cyclic and / or conical and / or tubular shape. This form Ensures that the contents of the container, the identification elements, easily can be delivered to the environment.

Of the container is preferably formed from a plastic or a metal. Alternatively, instead of a separate container and a cavity of the Vehicle used to store the identification elements.

at a preferred embodiment the container in the accident-free, normal state closed by a closure element, which can be actuated by the release unit. An unintentional Release of the identification elements contained therein is thus prevented. Lids or valves are particularly advantageous proved as closure elements.

The Control device has the task in the event of an accident, the identification elements release and has an accident detection unit and a release device on.

The Accident detection device is used to detect an accident. Preferably For this purpose, at least one crash sensor is used, which is based on the current acceleration, deceleration and / or Speed data of a vehicle determines whether an accident exists. This can be used on methods and devices, for example already known from the airbag control. The crash sensors are preferably under the outer skin of the vehicle, preferably behind the front bumper, the rear Bumpers and / or on the entire vehicle.

When Particularly advantageous is the activation of the accident detection device, and thus also the control device, at a speed of at least 3 km / h, preferably at least 5 km / h and especially preferably at least 7 km / h proved. Unlike an airbag control has been shown to work at relatively low speeds considerable damage or injuries, in particular to pedestrians, can be caused. simultaneously the vehicle remains in this case ready to drive and can without problems be used for escape. Furthermore should be mentioned are that standing vehicles usually not as accident causer come into question and thus no vehicle identification device need. By deactivating the accident detection device when not running Engine can therefore do the unnecessary Release can be prevented.

To the Release of the identification elements can be both a mechanical as well as on a chemical opening unit resorted become. Likewise, a combination of both mechanisms is possible. at mechanical units can be, for example, by an electric motor the container be opened. Alternatively leaves the opening of the container by ignition of a fuel, similar as when triggered an airbag. The identification elements are from their container thrown and distributed at the scene of the accident.

Around Manipulation attempts on the vehicle identification device To prevent this is preferably protected. Manipulation attempts are for example, the unauthorized removal of the identification elements, removing the vehicle identification device from the vehicle or replacing the identification elements. By a tamper-proof let yourself prevent them. Particularly suitable as a fuse have seals and adhesive labels that can not be removed without being destroyed proved. A review of proper function could regularly at the main inspection by an official testing organization or randomly done by the police.

With Help of a corresponding control circuit can also be checked whether the container properly closed is and the vehicle identification device is functioning correctly. A Malfunction can the driver by a control lamp in the driver's compartment are displayed.

identification elements For example, from paper against moisture and moisture protected when using a watertight container.

A advantageous embodiment is the use of the vehicle identification device in a passenger car and / or a truck. This one Vehicle types make up the majority of vehicles in road traffic and therefore also a very big one Group of accident causers can by installation of the vehicle identification device in these vehicles, a significant increase in the reconnaissance rate at accidents be achieved. At the same time these vehicles already have Electronics like crash sensors on, so the cost of the whole Device can be kept relatively low.

In a further embodiment has a Vehicle on the device described, wherein the device is disposed within the outer shell of the vehicle. Particularly advantageously, the arrangement of the container has proven at an opening of the outer shell, so that its content is easily be delivered to the outside. The lower area of the engine compartment, for example, represents a suitable location, which is sufficiently protected and at the same time allows emptying of the identification elements downwards.

There similar to the accident detection unit which is an airbag control, when using the same Crash sensors for the vehicle identification device and the airbag system saved costs become. Also, a single central control device, the necessary Logic for provide both systems. However, care must be taken that the vehicle identification device already at low Speeds is activated while an airbag is only at higher speeds triggers.

A exemplary operation of the vehicle identification device let yourself divide into several steps. To release the identification elements is entered in a first step by the accident detection unit Accident detected. This is advantageous to the acceleration, delaying and / or speed data of the crash sensors used. The detected accident then leads to Driving the release device, which is adapted to the closed container to open with identification elements. By opening of the container a large number of identification elements is released at the scene of the accident and released to the environment. Due to the large amount as well as the different Size, shape and color of the released elements is the cause of the accident not possible collect all. Consequently, almost always remain identification elements back at the scene of the accident.

The described method can be easily supported by further steps Identifiability of a vehicle involved in an accident be extended. In case of unauthorized removal of a vehicle Following the steps already mentioned, a law enforcement agency, such as For example, the police, the identification elements ensure. The identification elements now leave an identification of to all vehicles involved in the accident. By the clear Information bearing the identification elements are the vehicles clearly determined. In exceptional situations, the information is sufficient on the identification elements is not unique to a vehicle to identify, for example, because it causes the accident successful is, a big one Collect part of the items and get the unique information out formed a combination of multiple identification elements becomes possible already a part of the information a restriction of possible suspects.

By An additional Step, the process can be easily used to not only to identify the vehicle, but also to determine the holder. The holders of vehicles are together with the vehicle identifying information stored in a central directory. Through the information on the identification elements can thus easily to a Vehicle associated Holder can be determined.

Based Figures become embodiments closer to the invention explained. Show it:

1 a vehicle identification device in the closed state,

2 a part of the vehicle identification device of 1 in the open state, and

3 a vehicle with a vehicle identification device according to the invention.

In the 1 . 2 and 3 Objects depicted are neither to scale nor are their size relations proportionate. They are for illustration only.

1 shows a vehicle identification device in the closed state. In this embodiment, a mechanical opening unit for releasing identification elements 28 used.

1 shows a cylindrical-conical container 2 with one on the edge in a hinge 6 mounted closure element 4 , here a lid. Because the opening on the bottom of the container 2 is formed, a release of the identification elements 28 down possible. Further shows 1 a pestle 8th that of a coil 12 is surrounded and through which the closure element 4 is operable. The sink 12 and the pestle 8th are designed so that in the normal, accident-free condition the container 2 keep closed. They are supported by a compression spring 10 ,

In the container 2 There are at least 100 identification elements 28 , which have different sizes, shapes, weights and colors and each carry unique information that uniquely identifies the vehicle. In this embodiment, the identification elements 28 made of plastic and the clear information is printed on the surface. The identification elements 28 Plastic have proven to be beneficial proven because they are robust and largely insensitive to environmental influences and can be formed in almost any desired shape.

Further shows 1 the components which are also needed to release the identification elements. The inputs of a relay 20 are with a power source 22 connected, which supplies a voltage of 12 volts with the engine running. Current now flows from the relay 12 to a crash sensor 18 or several crash sensors 18 , The or in the case of a corresponding Schlagimpluses the surge to a capacitor 16 forwards or forwards. The capacitor 16 Holds the tension for about 5 seconds and causes the plunger to retract for that time 8th through the coil 12 , whereby an opening of the closure element 4 and thus a release of the identification elements 28 is reached.

The Accident detection unit is set in this embodiment, that already at about 7 km / h through the device releasing allows the identification elements becomes.

The housing 2 and the coil 12 are mounted on a common plate (not shown) and thus allow easy installation of the entire device. A cuff 14 surrounds the plunger 8th and the compression spring 10 and protects them.

To secure the device from manipulation is a seal 24 mounted below the cover arm / plunger connection and makes an unauthorized opening of the closure element 4 impossible. In addition, the mounting screws 26 the coil 12 , the pressure spring 10 , the container 2 and the closure element 4 secured against manipulation.

2 shows the vehicle identification device of 1 in the open state. To simplify the illustration, some components of the controller will not be shown again, although of course they will also be in the open state.

The pestle 8th is through the magnetic field of the coil 12 retracted so that the closure element 4 is open. The identification elements 28 Thus, they are distributed at the scene of the accident and, due to their different sizes, colors or shapes, they are so difficult to remove completely. Accident participants thus leave clear information at an accident location, by means of which vehicles and owners can be easily identified.

As in 2 can be seen, the opening of the closure element takes place by pulling the cover arm / plunger connection. Through the hinge 6 thereby becomes the closure element 4 moved down, which at the same time the seal 24 is damaged. The deliberate damage of the tamper-proofing and the emptying of the identification elements 28 In the event of an accident requires a new filling and sealing by a workshop or by an official testing organization, which must usually be visited in case of accidents.

3 shows a schematic representation of a passenger vehicle 30 with a vehicle identification device. All components are here within the outer skin of the passenger car 30 , where the container 2 is arranged together with the opening unit in the lower region of the engine compartment. The container 2 is here mounted on an opening of the outer shells, so that its contents can be delivered to the outside.

The crash sensors 18 lie behind a front bumper 32 and provide the current acceleration and deceleration data of the passenger car 30 , The data is then, together with the current speed, through a central control unit 34 evaluated in the event of an accident, the release of the identification elements 28 of the container 2 causes. For cost reasons, the crash sensors 18 and the central control unit 34 used both for the control of the vehicle identification device and for the airbag system. Despite the similarity of both systems, it should be noted that the vehicle identification device already controls the opening unit in low-speed accidents, while the airbag system is ignited only when a dangerous accident for the occupants. The individual components of the vehicle identification system are connected to one another via lines (not shown).

2

container

4

closure element

6

hinge

8th

tappet

10

compression spring

12

Kitchen sink

14

cuff

16

capacitor

18

crash sensor

20

relay

22

power source

24

seal

26

fixing screw

28

identification element

30

vehicle

32

front bumper

34

headquarters control unit

Claims (17)

Vehicle identification device for identifying a vehicle involved in an accident ( 30 ), the apparatus comprising: at least one container ( 2 ); a variety of identification elements ( 28 ) having identification information and inside the container ( 2 ), each identification element ( 28 ) carries unique information and / or carries a subgroup of unique information which, in combination with other identification elements ( 28 ) represents a unique information; and a control device ( 4 . 6 . 8th . 10 . 12 . 16 . 18 . 20 ) with: an accident detection unit; and a release device ( 4 . 6 . 8th . 10 . 12 ) for releasing at least a part of the identification elements ( 28 ) from the container ( 2 ). Apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the identification elements ( 28 ) are made of plastic, paper, metal or dye molecules. Apparatus according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least a part of the identification elements ( 28 ) or at least one group of identification elements ( 28 ) have one or more of the following information: a vehicle identification number, a license plate number or a chassis number. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vehicle ( 30 ) identifying information or partial information on the surface of the identification elements ( 28 ) are embossed and / or printed and / or protrude from the surface. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the identification elements ( 28 ) have different shapes, colors, sizes and / or weights. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the unique information or partial information in different sizes on the identification elements ( 28 ) is applied. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the identification elements ( 28 ) are at most 15 cm long, preferably at most 5 cm and particularly preferably at most 3 cm long and / or at least 5 microns long, preferably at least 1 mm and more preferably at least 2 mm long. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the container ( 2 ) has a cylindrical and / or conical and / or tubular shape. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the container ( 2 ) in the accident-free, normal state by a closure element ( 4 ), which is actuated by the release device, wherein the closure element ( 4 ) is in particular a lid and / or a valve. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the release device ( 4 . 6 . 8th . 10 . 12 ) has a mechanical and / or chemical opening unit. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the release device ( 4 . 6 . 8th . 10 . 12 ) by igniting a propellant the identification elements ( 28 ) releases. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the accident detection unit at least one crash sensor ( 18 ) having. Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device is protected against tampering attempts by a tamper-proof device, the tamper-proof device in particular being a seal ( 24 ) and / or an adhesive label. Vehicle with a device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the vehicle is a passenger vehicle ( 30 ) and / or a truck. Vehicle with a device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the device is located inside the outer shell of the vehicle ( 30 ) and the container ( 2 ) Is arranged at an opening of the outer shell, so that its content is deliverable to the outside. Vehicle with a device according to one of the preceding Claims, wherein the accident detection unit is part of a control unit of a Airbags represents. Process for the release of identification elements ( 28 ) of a vehicle identification device according to one of the preceding claims, comprising the following steps: a) detection of an accident by the accident detection unit of the vehicle identification device; b) activating the release device ( 4 . 6 . 8th . 10 . 12 ) of the vehicle identification device; and c) releasing a plurality of identification elements ( 28 ).