DE102018129481A1 - Smartframe for a vehicle registration number, method for producing a smartframe, method for operating a smartframe, and use of a smartframe in a vehicle of a vehicle rental system - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a smartframe for a vehicle license plate of a motor vehicle, which is composed of a carrier plate and a frame body surrounding the carrier plate, the smartframe being set up to be fastened on the vehicle side and holding a license plate in position, and the frame body being set up for this purpose to surround the license plate at its edge regions, comprising at least the following functional units: a display unit arranged on the frame body and configured to optically display display information; a unit for determining the position of the motor vehicle; a communication unit that is configured to transmit data to an external data network and to receive data via the data network; a control and computing unit; and an energy supply unit which is set up to supply the further functional units with energy. The invention further relates to a method for producing a smart frame and a method for operating a smart frame. Ultimately, the invention relates to the use of a smartframe in a motor vehicle assigned to a vehicle fleet of a vehicle rental system. The invention provides a license plate holder (“smartframe”) which provides improved protection of (primarily electronic) functional components provided in the smartframe against external influences such as dirt , Moisture and mechanical loads are guaranteed and an externally visible visual representation of display information is permitted. The invention also provides a method for producing a smart frame that fulfills the stated advantages. Furthermore, the present invention enables the use of a smart frame with the advantages mentioned in a motor vehicle assigned to a vehicle fleet of a vehicle rental system.

Description

The present invention relates to a smartframe for a vehicle license plate of a motor vehicle, which is composed of a carrier plate and a frame body surrounding the carrier plate, the smartframe being set up to be fastened on the vehicle side and holding a license plate in position, and the frame body being set up for this purpose to surround the license plate at its edge regions, comprising at least the following functional units: a display unit arranged on the frame body and configured to optically display display information; a unit for determining the position of the motor vehicle; a communication unit that is configured to transmit data to an external data network and to receive data via the data network; a control and computing unit; and an energy supply unit which is set up to supply the further functional units with energy. Furthermore, the invention relates to a method for producing a smart frame, and a method for operating a smart frame in a vehicle, which is assigned to a vehicle fleet of a vehicle rental system. Ultimately, the invention relates to the use of a smart frame in a motor vehicle assigned to a vehicle fleet of a vehicle rental system.

In the context of the present description of the invention and in the context of the claims, the term “smart frame” is to be understood as a license plate holder for a vehicle license plate of a motor vehicle. The license plate holder referred to in the context of the present invention as “Smartframe” is composed - as mentioned at the beginning - of a carrier plate and a frame body surrounding the carrier plate, and thus initially relies on components known from the prior art and often referred to as “license plate holders”. The term “smart” concretizes that, in the sense of the present invention, additional (primarily electronic) components are integrated into the license plate holder in comparison to a standard license plate holder. It should be expressly emphasized at this point that the term “smart frame” in the sense of the present invention does not only mean a frame body belonging to the license plate holder, but rather the structural unit composed of the frame body and carrier plate.

It is known from the general prior art to equip motor vehicles - in particular automobiles, motorcycles, trucks, buses and agricultural vehicles - with license plate holders. Likewise, trailers or trailers connected to a towing vehicle can also be equipped with license plate holders. These are intended to ensure the attachment of vehicle registration plates as prescribed by law in the simplest possible way. For this purpose, license plate holders are generally mounted on the outside of the vehicle chassis or the vehicle body, in particular in the front or rear area of the motor vehicle.

This avoids the complex mounting of a license plate or a license plate on the vehicle itself. Rather, the circuit board can be attached to the license plate holder in a relatively simple manner (ie not directly on the vehicle). As already indicated above, license plate holders are typically composed of a rectangular carrier plate with a frame body running around the edge. The essential function of the standard license plate holders known per se is to attach a license plate (for example a license plate) to a vehicle or to arrange it in a fixed position. License plate holders are often provided with inscriptions, for example advertising texts, in the area of the frame body.

It is also known to equip license plate holders with functional units in order to ensure functionality of the license plate holder that goes beyond the aforementioned functions. From the DE 20 2008 012 714 U1 is known, for example, a license plate holder with a receiving unit for signals for location determination, a receiving antenna, a signal evaluation unit, a storage unit, a battery unit, a telemetry unit (using GSM, UMTS, WLAN or Bluetooth technology) and a sensor unit for detecting mechanical or physical measurements such as temperature, acceleration, light, speed and vibrations. As can be seen from the disclosure content there, the components can be on or within the license plate holder (this is in the DE 20 2008 012 714 U1 generally referred to as a support frame). Although the license plate holder shown in the German utility model mentioned is in no way to be denied its suitability for multifunctional or networked usability, it may seem disadvantageous that true to the figurative representations 1 an arrangement of said (electronic) functional units in the area of the central carrier plate is sought. With such an arrangement (also partial) it cannot be ruled out that the components arranged in this way are exposed to dirt and moisture. Furthermore, the in the DE 20 2008 012 714 U1 described construction no externally visible representation of information about a possible status of the vehicle.

However, the information display about a vehicle status can be relevant in particular for vehicles which are assigned to an operator of a vehicle rental or a car sharing provider. Vehicle rentals or car sharing systems can be based on the fact that a vehicle fleet made up of a large number of individual vehicles is networked with a data center of the operator or provider via an external wireless data network.

Modules for position detection, for example GPS modules, can be provided on the vehicles. The position of the vehicles is transferred to the operator. Furthermore, display units are generally provided on the vehicles, which are able to display information about the status of the vehicle to a potential customer in the vicinity of the vehicle, for example whether the respective vehicle is available or not. On the operator side, the availability of a vehicle can be determined on the basis of the position data transmitted by the respective vehicle and / or further characteristic data (for example the tank status) and further data available on the operator side (this can be, for example, usage or reservation requests from other customers).

If the vehicle is available, this can be displayed to the customer via a display unit provided on the vehicle and the customer can - for example via a mobile terminal - make a booking request for a specific vehicle. It is also known that a customer checks the availability of the vehicles belonging to the vehicle rental or the car sharing provider via an application program (app) installed on a mobile terminal.

The WO 2016/201355 A1 makes particular reference to a computer-controlled client module which is provided in the area of a license plate holder. The client module has a processor unit, a GPS unit, a power supply unit and a unit for closing and opening the vehicle. It is also described that a rental request is received from a customer via a server provided outside the vehicle. The server and a database assigned to the server determine whether the selected vehicle is available. This determination is communicated to the customer, who can then make a booking. Furthermore, the customer can be given a security code, by means of which he can unlock access to the vehicle. It is a customer of the in the WO 2016/201355 A1 described car sharing system allows a vehicle to be booked via a terminal, but it appears disadvantageous that the user does not see any information about the vehicle status, for example an availability status, in the license plate area. In particular for customers who pass a vehicle in a car-sharing fleet or are in the vicinity of it, it may seem advantageous if they would receive quick information about an availability status of the vehicle without using a mobile device, for example in the form of an optical one , status display visible from the outside. Such a facility lacks the system from the WO 2016/201355 A1 . Furthermore, it also appears disadvantageous for the client module arranged on the license plate holder that at least some of the components can be exposed to dirt or moisture.

The present invention is accordingly based on the object of providing a license plate holder (“smart frame”) which ensures improved protection of (predominantly electronic) functional components provided in the smart frame from external influences such as dirt, moisture and mechanical loads, and an externally visible visual representation of display information allowed.

Furthermore, the invention is based on the object of providing a method for producing and a method for operating a smartframe which fulfills the stated advantages.

Furthermore, it is an object of the present invention to enable the use of a smart frame with the advantages mentioned in a motor vehicle assigned to a vehicle fleet of a vehicle rental system.

To achieve this object, a smartframe with the features of claim 1, a method for producing a smartframe with the features of claim 40, a method designed according to the features of claim 52 for operating a smartframe in a vehicle, which is assigned to a vehicle fleet of a vehicle rental system is and the use of a smart frame in a vehicle assigned to a vehicle fleet of a vehicle rental system proposed the features of claim 53.

The invention first relates to a smart frame for a vehicle license plate of a motor vehicle, which is composed of a carrier plate and a frame body surrounding the carrier plate, the smart frame being set up to be fastened on the vehicle side and holding a license plate fixed in position, and the frame body being set up for this purpose , the To surround the license plate at its edge areas, comprising at least the following functional units: a display unit arranged on the frame body and configured to optically display display information, for example information about a vehicle status; a unit for determining the position of the motor vehicle; a communication unit that is configured to transmit data to an external data network and to receive data via the data network; a control and computing unit; and an energy supply unit which is set up to supply the further functional units with energy.

A decisive advantage of the smart frame according to the invention results from the arrangement of the display unit on the frame body. The display unit is arranged in such a way that display information can be displayed externally (i.e. in the form of an optical display) on a display belonging to the display unit. The display information can then be visually perceived by an external observer directly on the vehicle.

As already mentioned in the introduction, the Smartframe is suitable for use in vehicles that are part of a car sharing system or a vehicle rental system. However, it should be emphasized that the smartframe according to the invention is not restricted to such use. It can also be used for any other purpose. However, when using the smartframe in vehicles of a car-sharing system or a vehicle rental system, it can be useful for information about an availability status of the vehicle to be optically displayed via the display unit of the smartframe, for example in the sense of a display such as “available”, “rented” or "reserved". In this case, it is possible for a potential customer or prospective tenant to read information, for example on the availability status, directly from the smartframe on the vehicle or the display unit associated with the smartframe (without the need to call this information from the car-sharing provider via a mobile device ).

The display unit can be detachably connected to the frame body by means of suitable fastening means. Alternatively, the display unit can be integrated directly and integrally into the material of the frame body. By way of example, the display unit can be encapsulated by the plastic material of the frame body. An arrangement of the display unit is advantageous in which it closes outwards with the surface of the frame body, that is, it does not protrude beyond the surface of the frame body in the direction toward the outside of the vehicle. A further advantage can result from the fact that the electronic components assigned to the display unit are arranged within the frame body, as a result of which damage by external weather influences such as moisture, wind or dirt is prevented. Such an arrangement can also protect the components from external loads and shocks. In addition, a seal arranged between the display unit and the frame body can be provided in the area of the display unit, as a result of which a possible entry of dirt and moisture is further reduced.

A planar arrangement of the display unit on the surface of the frame body is also conceivable, for example by means of an adhesive connection or an attachment by means of clamping or screwing means. A detachable attachment of the display unit to the frame body can be advantageous, since this enables simple replacement of the display unit in the event of damage. The display unit can be provided, for example, in that area of the frame body in which an advertising label is provided in the case of classic license plate holders.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, all functional units can be arranged on the frame body. An arrangement “on” the frame body at this point means in particular an arrangement in which the functional units are arranged within the frame body, that is to say they are integrated into the frame body. For this purpose, the frame body can have construction spaces or cavities specially designed for the arrangement of the functional units. Integration of the functional units can also be ensured by the components being materially surrounded by the material of the frame body, for example an arrangement is conceivable in which the functional units are integrated directly into the frame body or the smart frame during the injection molding process. An arrangement of all functional units on the frame body or within the frame body is advantageous, since comprehensive protection of the functional units against external influences such as moisture and dirt is thus ensured.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, the energy supply unit can be arranged on the carrier plate, while the further functional units are arranged on the frame body. Frequently, energy supply units take up a larger installation space than other electronic components; accordingly, the arrangement of the energy supply unit, which can comprise, for example, an energy store in the form of a battery, on the support plate can be advantageous in relation to the available space in a license plate holder. When arranging the power supply unit on the Carrier plate is preferably flat. It should be noted that the energy supply unit is also protected from moisture when it is arranged on the carrier plate, namely on the one hand by a license plate which is attached to the license plate holder in the assembled state and on the other hand by the carrier plate itself. The energy supply unit can also be provided directly in to integrate the material of the carrier plate. Furthermore, it can be advantageous to protect the energy supply unit from moisture and dirt with an additional housing or casing.

Depending on the structural conditions of the license plate holder, i.e. depending on its size (this may already vary in different countries due to different regulations for the license plate size), it can be advantageous in the context of the invention that the energy supply unit and at least one other of the functional units on the carrier plate are arranged. As a result, the present space requirements are taken into account if there is not enough space in the frame body for the arrangement of all functional units. Correspondingly, several of the functional units can also be arranged on the carrier plate. At this point it should also be emphasized again that the arrangement of the functional units is not necessarily a superficial arrangement, i.e. must be a fastening on the surface of the carrier plate, as it were the functional units can be arranged within the carrier plate, that is to say at least partially surrounded by the solid material of the carrier plate.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the energy supply unit can be set up to supply the further functional units with energy continuously, periodically or as required. The timing of the energy supply can depend on the operating mode of the smart frame or the type of use of the vehicle. Again, the focus is on the use of a smart frame in vehicles that are assigned to a car sharing provider. When not in use, i.e. If the vehicle is not rented out, it may be advantageous not to supply the functional units permanently with energy, but rather to perform only a periodic energy supply, for example in the sense of waking up from a “sleep” mode in a specific time interval. A regular forwarding of data to an external point via an external data network can be coupled to this time interval. The external location can be, for example, a data center or a server from a car sharing provider. On the other hand, when the vehicle is in operation, for example in the rented state, it may also be advantageous to continuously supply the functional units of the smartframe with energy, for example to allow continuous position determination via the position determination unit and the determined data via the communication unit to an external location transferred to. It may also be advantageous to decouple some functional units from the energy supply when the smartframe is idle. For example, only the communication unit can be continuously supplied with energy, which enables a demand-dependent energy supply in such a way that when a “wake-up” signal or a data request is received from an external location, a power supply to the further functional units is activated. Periodic energy supply means that the energy supply is switched on automatically after a defined time interval, for example every two hours.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the position determination unit can be operated on the basis of the GPS system, the Galileo system, the Glonass system or the Beidou system. For this purpose, the unit for determining the position is matched to the respective requirements of the system used. The position data of the smartframe and consequently of the motor vehicle determined with the position determination unit can be passed on to the control and computing unit. The data can be processed in the control and computing unit. The raw data or processed data can be transmitted to an external location via the communication unit. There, the data can be subjected to further evaluation or processing.

It can also be advantageous within the scope of the invention that the control and computing unit is set up to control the energy supply and the operation of the functional units. The control and computing unit can be set up to control the energy supply to the functional units in terms of time or depending on the required functional units. Communication between the functional units can also be controlled via the control and computing unit. In particular, it can be advantageous if the control and computing unit is set up to forward the display information to the display unit. If the display information is, for example, an availability status in relation to renting a vehicle belonging to a car-sharing provider or vehicle rental, an availability status can be transmitted from a data center or server on the provider side via a data network in the direction of the communication unit of the smart frame will. This availability status is passed on to the control and computing unit and ultimately passed on by the control and computing unit as display information to the display unit.

In the context of the invention it can also be advantageous that the carrier plate and the frame body are a one-piece component. For example, production as a one-piece injection-molded component comes into question. Such components can usually be manufactured quickly and relatively inexpensively. However, it can also be provided that the carrier plate and the frame body are separate, interconnectable components. In this case, the carrier plate and the frame body are manufactured separately, for example by injection molding. Connection means can be provided on the components, by virtue of which the components can be connected to one another. In principle, all conventional connection types come into consideration here, be it for example an adhesive connection, a clamp connection, a screw connection or a component connection based on a press fit.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the smart frame, fastening means can be provided on the carrier plate and / or the frame body, which are designed to hold the license plate. This avoids having to place the license plate (whose arrangement on the vehicle is required by law) directly on the vehicle chassis or the vehicle body. Rather, the license plate can be easily attached directly to the smart frame itself. The fastening means can be designed such that a simple but secure fastening of the license plate is made possible.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the smart frame according to the invention, fastening means can be provided on the carrier plate and / or the frame body, which are designed to fasten the smart frame to the motor vehicle. The fastening means must ensure a stable fastening of the smart frame to the motor vehicle.

A further advantageous embodiment of the smart frame is that the energy supply unit comprises an energy store, for example a rechargeable battery. In principle, all current energy stores are suitable which meet the requirements for arrangement in a smart frame used in motor vehicles. The energy storage devices must in particular be resistant to vibrations occurring while driving. Nickel-metal hydride batteries or lithium-ion batteries, for example, can be suitable as energy stores. The energy store can be arranged in such a way that the energy store can be easily exchanged, for example in the event of complete discharge, damage or for reasons of age.

As with the energy supply unit, it can also be provided in relation to the energy store that it is arranged on the carrier plate. In this case, it is particularly advantageous that the energy storage device is as flat as possible. The energy storage device can be integrated into the carrier plate in such a way that it is surrounded by the solid material of the carrier plate and is therefore protected against external influences such as moisture or dirt. The energy store can also be arranged on the surface of the carrier plate. Then it is advantageous if the energy store is hermetically protected from moisture and dirt in a separate housing or in a casing.

According to a further embodiment, it can be provided that the energy supply unit additionally has a charging module connected to the energy store, by virtue of which the energy store can be charged. The charging module can be arranged on the frame body, preferably integrated into it. Alternatively, the charging module can be arranged on the carrier plate. An integration into the solid material of the carrier plate or an arrangement on the surface of the carrier plate can be considered. It is advantageous that the energy store can be inductively charged via the charging module and an external charger that interacts with the charging module. An inductive charging option represents a particularly simple charging option. With reference to a possible use of a smart frame in a vehicle of a car-sharing provider or an operator of a vehicle rental company, provision can be made for the energy storage of the smart frame at predefined charging points, for example certain parking spaces or a home station of vehicles to charge. As an alternative or in addition, it can be provided that the charging module has an interface which is set up to charge the energy store in a wired manner. Such charging can also take place at certain parking spaces or at a home station, provided that the smartframe is used in a vehicle that is used in a car-sharing system or vehicle rental.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, a solar cell connected to the energy store can be provided in addition to the energy store, the energy store being chargeable by the energy provided by the solar cell. Charging via a solar cell leads to a Energy optimization of the smart frame. Depending on the weather conditions, the natural energy of solar radiation can be used to charge the energy storage.

It should be emphasized at this point that the smartframe according to the invention can be operated (independently) from an energy supply or battery provided on a motor vehicle. A connection to the vehicle electrical system or the vehicle electronics is not absolutely necessary. However, without restricting the smartframe to this, a configuration is also conceivable in which the smartframe has connections which allow a connection to the vehicle electrical system. The smartframe can also optionally be set up to exchange data with modules of the motor vehicle via a wireless signal connection. In this context, data can be, for example, position data, operating data or data transmitted to the smartframe from an external location. At the same time, data from the motor vehicle can be transmitted to the smartframe, for example operating data such as the fill level of the tank (or in the case of electric vehicles, the fill level of the battery or the range of the vehicle).

The fact that the smartframe according to the invention can be used independently of the vehicle electrical system results in a variety of advantages. The Smartframe is not limited to use with a specific vehicle type or size, but can be used with a wide range of vehicles (different sizes and types). For example, the smartframe can be attached to both motor vehicles and vehicle trailers. The self-sufficient operating possibility of the smartframe is advantageous for vehicle manufacturers, since they do not have to provide any additional contact means for the smartframe for any connection to the vehicle electrical system. The Smartframe can be used universally and flexibly. For example, the Smartframe can also be used on vehicles that were initially equipped with a standard license plate holder. A changeover or exchange is possible without any problems.
According to an advantageous embodiment, the display unit can comprise a single display module or a plurality of display modules arranged in a row, the display module (s) being an LCD display, an e-paper display or an LED display. The specific design of the display unit depends in particular on the specific structural conditions and the dimensioning of the smart frame. A letter, number and / or character string can advantageously be optically displayed with the display unit. When selecting the display module or modules, it must be taken into account that there is sufficient contrast between the letters, numbers or characters displayed and their background. In particular, it is advantageous that the information displayed can be easily recognized even in poor light and visibility conditions, for example in the dark. The displayed digits, letters and / or characters can relate to status information of the vehicle.
According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the display unit can be arranged at an angle with respect to an outer surface of the carrier plate or the frame body. With such an angled arrangement, the display unit can be illuminated by a lighting unit provided on the smartframe or the motor vehicle. This can ensure that the optical information reproduced by the display unit can be easily recognized even in difficult visibility conditions, for example at night.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the position determination unit of the vehicle can be determined. This means that the position determination unit can retrieve geospatial information and compare it with a specific position. It can also be provided that a determined position indication can be forwarded to the external data network via the control and computing unit and the communication unit. Furthermore, it can be provided that the position determination unit is set up to forward the position data in a specific data format to an external point via the control and computing unit and the communication unit, the position being determined at the external point, for example using a data center or an external server.

According to the invention, it can further be provided that the position of the motor vehicle can be determined continuously, periodically or on request by means of the position determination unit. For example, position data can be queried from an external point in a certain time interval, for example in a cycle of 30 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours or the like. The query can be coupled to the control of the energy supply and adapted to it. This ensures further energy optimization of the smartframe.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the communication unit can comprise a GSM or LTE module, a SIM chip and an antenna. The selection of the communication unit is not limited to a GSM or LTE standard. Especially in the way of fast in the field of mobile communication progressing development any more powerful standard can be realized in such a module or the communication unit. According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the SIM chip can be soldered onto a circuit board and the antenna can be formed directly on the circuit board. Training on a printed circuit board enables easy connection to other electrical components of the smartframe.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the control and computing unit can have interfaces via which it is connected to the further functional units. Furthermore, the control and computing unit can have a central data processing module, a module for energy control, a module for display control, and a module for controlling the switching on and off process. Overall, the control and computing unit thus provides a processor unit which can be arranged on a circuit board or a common circuit board.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, an infrared unit can be provided as a further functional unit connected to the control and arithmetic unit in terms of signal technology, the infrared unit being set up to exchange data with an external infrared reader. System updates or further data queries and data transmissions can be carried out via such an infrared unit. Furthermore, the infrared unit can be equipped with a parking space, in particular a parking space defined as a home location (this is particularly possible when using the smartframe in a vehicle that is associated with a car-sharing system or vehicle rental). In this case, a "coming home" status can be determined via the infrared unit of the smartframe and an external infrared reader, whereby the energy supply and / or the functional units are activated and / or an automated data transmission between the smartframe and an external server (this is preferably coupled to the infrared reader).

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one security feature can be provided on the smartframe. Several security features of the same or different types can also be arranged on the smartframe. Security features make it difficult to copy or reproduce the items mentioned and can be suitable for identifying and / or authenticating the smartframe or the motor vehicle. Optical or haptic security features can be, for example, QR codes, watermarks, embossed structures, surface contours, holograms or color samples, which can be formed or arranged directly on the smartframe. Also known are security elements made of photonic or luminescent materials, the luminescent properties of which depend on the viewing angle or the radiation situation. Security elements can also be designed as a grid, the grid having different grid widths, point sizes or point spacings. In addition, halftone dots can have different halftone dot shapes. Grain grids or dot grids can be used which realize round, elliptical, rectangular or polygonal dots in the form of contours, patterns, logos, barcodes, data matrix codes, QR codes, graphic codes, text, letters or numbers. Line grids with variable line thickness, with sine lines or guilloches and all combinations of the above shapes can also be used.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, the smartframe can have a read-out unit which is set up to contactlessly read data from a data carrier arranged on the license plate, for example an RFID chip or a legend. For example, a data carrier arranged on the number plate can contain information that allows the number plate to be assigned to a vehicle owner.

Furthermore, it can be advantageous for the smartframe to have an RFID tag, for example a passive RFID tag. Such a device could be used to activate the control and computing unit and / or further functional units after its activation. To activate the RFID tag, electromagnetic waves can be emitted in the direction of the RFID tag by a suitable transmitter. However, it is also conceivable to use an active RFID tag or another transponder instead of a passive RFID tag. A corresponding transmitting device interacting with the RFID tag could be arranged in a stationary manner in the area of certain parking spaces, hometowns or base stations when using the smartframe in a motor vehicle that is used in a vehicle rental system or car sharing system. When the vehicle is parked, the stationary transmitter and the (passive) RFID tag can interact, which activates additional functional units of the smart frame. For this purpose, the RFID tag is coupled to at least one further functional unit, for example the computing and control unit.

According to a further advantageous embodiment, a sensor can be arranged on the smartframe, which is set up to mount or dismount the license plate on the smartframe and / or to mount or dismount the To recognize smart frames on the motor vehicle. This makes it possible to record a successful assembly or disassembly and to transmit it to an external location. When used in vehicles of a vehicle rental or car sharing system, the operator or provider can be informed, for example, of the successful replacement of the smart frame after maintenance, repair or a component change. In particular, it may be of interest to an operator or provider to receive a message about the functional usability of the smart frame after it has been installed.

With the aforementioned sensor, it is also possible to detect an unwanted removal of the smartframe from a motor vehicle, for example in the event of theft. Professional tools are often used for theft, which is why a proper (and desired) dismantling cannot be distinguished from an unwanted dismantling. With a suitable sensor, however, the disassembly can be recorded at least in terms of time. In this case, the smartframe can send dismantling information wirelessly via its communication unit in the direction of an external location, for example a server or data center of the operator or provider of a vehicle rental system or car sharing system. There it can be determined whether the disassembly was permitted or not. It is also advantageous that the unit provided in the smart frame for determining the position in the event of theft can be used to locate and locate the smart frame.

Likewise, it can be determined via the sensor that a license plate has been mounted or removed on the smartframe. The license plate is usually changed when a motor vehicle is bought or sold and the associated start-up is carried out by the new vehicle owner. License plates can also be changed on the vehicles with car sharing systems or vehicle rental systems. In this case, successful assembly or disassembly of such a license plate can be transmitted to an operator or provider via the functional units of the smart frame. The addressed sensor is preferably a capacitive sensor. This can be designed, for example, in the manner of a capacitive distance sensor or a proximity sensor.

It can also be advantageous that a recognition unit is provided on the smartframe, which is set up to recognize a violent removal of the smartframe from a motor vehicle. A violent removal means in particular a jerky removal of the smartframe. In the context of this configuration, it can be particularly advantageous if the detection unit comprises an acceleration sensor. Such an acceleration sensor can be used to determine whether the smartframe is jerkily removed from an assembled position, i.e. from a rest position, and accelerated in the process.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the smart frame can be set up to receive and process encrypted data. Furthermore, the smartframe can be set up to encrypt and send out data. Especially with wireless data transmission via a data network and server, there is a risk that the data will be accessed by unauthorized third parties. Then encrypted data transmission is a suitable way to avoid unwanted data access by third parties. All encryption technologies known from the field of information technology and communication technology can be used. There is no restriction to a specific method for data encryption.

According to a further embodiment of the invention, a loudspeaker unit and / or a microphone unit can be arranged on the smartframe. The loudspeaker unit and / or microphone unit can comprise a single loudspeaker or a single microphone. At the same time, however, several loudspeakers or several microphones can also be arranged on the smartframe. Information or acoustic signals can be passed on via the loudspeaker or loudspeakers, for example a vehicle status or a warning signal. Acoustic signals, tones and commands can be recorded via the microphone or microphones and passed on for evaluation or processing. For example, such a microphone can be used to record an acoustic demand from a customer regarding the vehicle status.

• - Bereitstellen eines sich aus einer Trägerplatte und einem Rahmenkörper zusammensetzenden Smartframes;
• - Anordnen zumindest der folgenden Funktionseinheiten an dem Smartframe: eine Energieversorgungseinheit, eine Anzeigeeinheit, eine Einheit zur Positionsbestimmung, eine Kommunikationseinheit, eine Steuer- und Recheneinheit, wobei zumindest die Anzeigeeinheit an dem Rahmenkörper angeordnet wird;

• - Bereitstellen von Signalverbindungsmitteln zwischen den Funktionsei n heiten;
• - Bereitstellen elektrischer Verbindungsmittel zwischen der Energieversorgungseinheit und den weiteren Funktionseinheiten.

Furthermore, the invention also relates to a method for producing a smart frame for a vehicle license plate of a motor vehicle according to one of claims 1 to 39, with at least the following steps:

• - Providing a smart frame composed of a carrier plate and a frame body;
• - Arranging at least the following functional units on the smartframe: a power supply unit, a display unit, a Position determination unit, a communication unit, a control and computing unit, at least the display unit being arranged on the frame body;

• - Providing signal connection means between the functional units;
• - Providing electrical connection means between the energy supply unit and the other functional units.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, all functional units can be arranged on the frame body. According to an advantageous embodiment of the method, the energy supply unit can be arranged on the carrier plate and the further functional units can be arranged on the frame body. Alternatively, the energy supply unit and at least one further of the functional units can be arranged on the carrier plate. For the advantages associated with the configurations mentioned, reference is made to the advantages of the smartframe already explained in the context of the advantageous configurations.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the carrier plate and the frame body can be separate plastic components which are manufactured by means of an injection molding process. In this case, the carrier plate and the frame body can be connected to one another via connecting means, for example clamping or screwing means.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, the carrier plate and the frame body can be manufactured in one piece by means of an injection molding process.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the method on which the invention is based, it can be provided that the functional units are arranged on the smartframe by means of the injection molding method. The functional units can be connected to one another in terms of signal technology and electrically before they are arranged on the smartframe. The functional units can then be positioned in a prefabricated semifinished product and encapsulated by a further plastic compound. The functional units can also be originally positioned in a mold of an injection molding machine and overmolded with an injection molding compound, in particular a plastic compound. The same applies to the other components or components mentioned in the description of advantageous refinements of the smart frame. This applies in particular to the at least one security feature, the readout unit, the RFID tag, the sensor, the recognition unit, the loudspeaker unit and the microphone unit.

As an alternative to the method, it can be provided that the functional units are arranged on the smartframe after the injection molding. In particular, it can be provided in this case that, during injection molding, construction spaces and / or fastening means are formed in the carrier plate and / or the frame body, which are designed to accommodate and / or fasten the functional units. Following the injection molding of the construction spaces and / or the fastening means, the functional units can be arranged and fastened in the construction spaces. This can be done semi-automatically or fully automatically, for example with the aid of a robot unit. The same applies to the other components or components mentioned in the description of advantageous refinements of the smart frame. This applies in particular to the at least one security feature, the readout unit, the RFID tag, the sensor, the recognition unit, the loudspeaker unit and the microphone unit.

According to a further advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention, fastening means can be provided on the carrier plate and / or the frame body, which are designed to fasten a license plate.

Fastening means can also be provided on the carrier plate and / or the frame body, which are set up to fasten the smart frame on the vehicle side.

It should be expressly mentioned that the method for producing a smart frame is based on a smart frame that can be designed in accordance with the features contained in patent claims 1 to 39. Accordingly, the applicant reserves the right to include features of claims 1 to 39 directed to the smartframe in the independent method claim.

The invention also relates to the use of a smart frame designed according to one of claims 1 to 39 in a motor vehicle assigned to a vehicle fleet of a vehicle rental system, the smart frame being fastened on the vehicle side and composed of a carrier plate and a frame body surrounding the carrier plate, and wherein a frame body is attached to the latter Frame body of the smart frame arranged display unit related to vehicle rental status information, in particular a reservation or availability status, can be displayed. At this point, a vehicle rental system can mean a car sharing system or another vehicle rental.

When used in this way, the smartframe provides a similar representation to that in WO 2016/201355 A1 a kind of computer-controlled client. As mentioned several times, the smartframe has various function modules, for example an energy supply unit, a unit for determining the position of the motor vehicle, a communication unit, a control and computing unit and optionally a charging unit and an infrared unit. According to the invention, further functional modules not mentioned here can also be provided in the smartframe, for example a unit for closing and opening the vehicle. The latter unit can be coupled to the door locking system of the vehicle.

The rental process of a vehicle which is associated with a vehicle rental system, for example a car sharing system and is provided with a smartframe, is described below by way of example and not limitation.

A customer of the vehicle rental system or prospective tenant can send a rental request or status request for a specific vehicle to the operator of the vehicle rental system via a data network. This is primarily done via a customer's mobile device on which a corresponding app can be installed. After receiving the request on a server or data center of the operator, the operator can send a data request or status request in the direction of the smart frame. The request is received via the communication unit of the smartframe and processed by the control and computing unit, corresponding data on the position of the vehicle (this can be determined using a unit for determining the position) or other required information is then provided by the control and computing unit corresponding functional units of the smartframe are queried and sent back to the operator's server or the data center via the communication unit and an external data network. There, if necessary taking into account further data (these can be stored in a corresponding database), it can be determined whether the selected vehicle is available or not. This determination is communicated to the customer, who can then make a booking. It is further provided according to the invention that such an availability status is determined even without a specific customer request and is displayed on the display unit of the smart frame. For this purpose, predefined time intervals can be defined at which an availability status is determined by the interaction of the smartframe and an operator's server. Such a status can also be automatically passed on and displayed by the operator to the smartframe after the end of the rental.

It should be expressly mentioned that the use of a smartframe in a motor vehicle assigned to a vehicle fleet of a vehicle rental system is based on that smartframe which can be designed in accordance with the features contained in claims 1 to 28. Accordingly, the applicant reserves the right to include features of claims 1 to 28 directed to the smartframe in the independent use claim.

In the case of the use of a smart frame explained above, a smart frame is operated in a motor vehicle assigned to a vehicle fleet of a vehicle rental system. In such an operation, different operating processes take place in the functional units of the smartframe or in the (external) components interacting with the smartframe, some of which are also carried out in parallel.

• - Ermitteln oder Abfragen einer Statusinformation, insbesondere eines Reservierungs- oder Verfügbarkeitsstatus des Fahrzeugs, sowie Anzeigen der Statusinformation über die an dem Rahmenkörper angeordnete Anzeigeeinheit;
• - Erfassen von Positionsdaten und Übermitteln der Daten an einen externen Server.

Accordingly, the present invention also relates to a method for operating a smart frame designed according to one of claims 1 to 39 in a vehicle which is assigned to a vehicle fleet of a vehicle rental system, the smart frame being fastened on the vehicle side and being composed of a carrier plate and a frame body surrounding the carrier plate , comprising the following continuous, periodic, or on-demand operations:

• - Determining or querying status information, in particular a reservation or availability status of the vehicle, and displaying the status information via the display unit arranged on the frame body;
• - Acquisition of position data and transmission of the data to an external server.

On the part of the smart frame, status information, in particular a reservation or availability status of the vehicle, can be queried by the operator of the vehicle rental system via the control and computing unit and the communication unit. For this purpose, a suitable query routine can be provided on the control and computing unit, which controls the time of the query process. The status information, for example the availability status (reference is made to this example of status information without restricting the status information to this), can be determined on an external server from data provided by the operator and from position data transmitted to the server by the smartframe. If the availability status is to be updated or determined continuously, a continuous position detection of the vehicle is required. The on the smartframe The intended unit for position detection together with the control and computing unit connected to it must continuously transmit the detected position data to an external server via the communication unit. As mentioned, the availability status can be determined there and is sent back to the smartframe for optical display in the display unit. In particular with a continuous display of the availability status, a reciprocal (and sometimes parallel) data exchange between smartframe and external server is necessary. Conversely, the availability status can also be determined directly in the control and computing unit of the smart frame. However, data can also be exchanged between the smartframe and the external server in this embodiment variant.

Provision can also be made for a position determination to be suspended when the vehicle is not rented out. In this case, the system has the position of the vehicle on the basis of position data transmitted when the last previous rental ended. As an alternative, the availability status can also be updated in predetermined time periods. The same applies accordingly to the acquisition and transmission of the position data to the external server. Provision can also be made for the availability status to be determined only when a customer requests it, be it from an external server or the control and computing unit of the smartframe. After determining the availability status, this can be optically displayed on the display unit of the smart frame.

Furthermore, according to the method it can be provided that the smartframe makes a request for available updates via the communication unit or infrared unit after the end of the vehicle rental or after the vehicle has been parked. Provision can also be made for the charging status of the energy store associated with the energy supply unit to be checked as standard after the end of the vehicle rental or after the vehicle has been parked. If the charging status is below a predetermined level, automatic charging can be induced if a charging device is provided in the given parking space, for example an inductive charging device which can interact with the charging module associated with the smartframe.

Further operations that take place in the smartframe can relate to the release of a door locking system of the vehicle at the start of the rental and authentication of the customer or the locking of the doors at the end of the rental.

Further advantageous refinements result from the subclaims which refer back to the respective independent patent claims, and from the exemplary embodiments described below. The exemplary embodiments are not restrictive, but are to be understood as exemplary design variants. The applicant reserves the right to make one or more of the features disclosed in the exemplary embodiments the subject of patent claims or to include such features in the existing claims. The exemplary embodiments are explained in more detail with reference to figures.

• 1 eine stark schematisierte, perspektivische Darstellung eines herkömmlichen Kennzeichenhalters samt Kennzeichenplatine und;
• 2 ein Blockschaltbild der dem Smartframe zugehörigen Funktionseinheiten.

Show it

• 1 a highly schematic, perspective view of a conventional license plate holder including license plate and;
• 2nd a block diagram of the functional units associated with the smartframe.

In the 1 a conventional license plate holder for a license plate is shown. The license plate holder consists of a centrally arranged carrier plate 1 as well as the carrier plate 1 frame-like surrounding frame body 2nd together. The license plate holder is usually attached to a motor vehicle, in particular in the front and rear areas of the motor vehicle. Trailers and trailers can also be provided with a license plate holder for license plate boards. A license plate, for example in the manner of a license plate, can be arranged on the license plate holder. In most countries it is necessary to attach such a license plate 3rd or a license plate is a legal obligation to operate a motorized road vehicle. The license plate 3rd can (as shown) carry a label that allows the vehicle to be assigned to a vehicle owner. For this purpose, suitable fastening means can be provided on the license plate holder, but their specific configuration is not the subject of this invention. The carrier plate 1 and the frame body 2nd can be designed as a one-piece or one-piece component. In particular, production using the injection molding process is possible if the license plate holder is to be made of plastic. However, a two-part, ie separate design of the license plate holder is also possible. The carrier plate 1 and the frame body 2nd can then be manufactured separately, for example by injection molding. The two components are then connected to one another using suitable connecting means.

The in 1 reproduced license plate holder generally corresponds to the structure of what is referred to here as a smart frame License plate holder. In addition to the in 1 Components shown, however, the Smartframe still has additional functional units, which are on the carrier plate 1 or the frame body 2nd can be arranged. With an arrangement "on" the carrier plate 1 or "on" the frame body 2nd can include an arrangement within the carrier plate 1 or within the frame body 2nd be meant. The carrier plate 1 or the frame body 2nd can be designed in such a way that installation spaces for arranging the functional units are already provided during their manufacture. At the same time, the functional units can be integrated directly into the smartframe when it is manufactured.

In the 2nd is a block diagram of the functional units associated with the smartframe. The signaling connection means between the individual units are also shown, that is to say the connecting lines. The electrical lines and circuits of the smartframe are also illustrated. Furthermore, the interaction of the smartframe or its associated components with external units in the 2nd reproduced.

The display unit shown in the block diagram 4th is on the frame body 2nd arranged, namely such that the means of the display unit 4th reproduced display information is visible from the outside. The display unit 4th is via a driver also provided in the Smartframe 29 with one in a control and computing unit 14 provided module 17th connected for display control. As shown, the driver can 29 a certain number of on the display unit 4th number of characters shown, for example eight characters. The display unit 4th can be designed in the manner of a segment display or in the manner of a dot matrix display.

The other functional units can on the frame body 2nd or on the carrier plate 1 arranged or integrated into this. For preferred arrangement options of the functional units, reference is made to the preceding description.

The smartframe also has a unit 5 to determine the position of the motor vehicle, for example a GPS unit. In unity 5 An antenna is preferably used to determine the position 6 integrated.

The smartframe also has a communication unit 7 on. This can be set up, for example, to use the GSM or LTE standard for wireless data in the direction of an external data network 8th to send. The communication unit 7 can be a SIM chip 12 and an antenna 13 be assigned. Sending the data in the direction of the data network 8th takes place via that of the communication unit 7 assigned antenna 13 . Likewise, on the part of the communication unit 7 over the data network 8th sent data from the communication unit 7 or the antenna 13 be received. The over the data network 8th sent data can be from a terminal 9 a customer and an operator 10th and a server 11 (This can also be an operator 10th assigned) are received. Similarly, from a customer, operator 10th or starting from the server 11 Data over the data network 8th towards the communication unit 7 of the smartframe are sent.

Another functional unit of the smartframe is a control and computing unit 14 which is a central data processing module 15 , one module 16 for energy control, one module 17th for display control and a module 18th to control the switching on and off. Furthermore, the control and computing unit 14 further interfaces 20th , 21st , 22 and a voltage converter 19th exhibit.

As shown, the control and computing unit 14 over the interface 20th with the communication unit 7 connected by signaling. Via the interface 21st is the control and computing unit 14 with the unit 5 for position determination connected in terms of signal technology, while such a signal connection between the control and computing unit 14 and an infrared unit optionally provided on the smartframe 23 and the interface 22 provided. The infrared unit 23 is set up to read data with an external infrared reader 24th exchange without contact. The data exchange between the infrared unit 23 and infrared reader 24th can be done in particular as part of regular system updates or during maintenance of the smartframe. The infrared reader can 24th with a service computing unit 25th connected who carries out the update or maintenance. When using the smart frame in a vehicle of a vehicle rental system or car sharing system, it can be provided that the infrared unit 23 a wake-up pulse is generated in the smartframe, especially when the infrared unit 23 when parking the vehicle in a home station of the vehicle rental system or car sharing system with an infrared reader provided there 24th contacts. The wake-up pulse can put the smartframe in a position to receive and transmit data (for example an update), or it can be charged with energy.

When using the smartframe on a vehicle that belongs to a car-sharing system or a vehicle rental system is, it can be provided, in defined parking areas or parking lots or a home station, infrared readers 24th to be arranged stationary. When the vehicle is parked at the specified locations, these are automatically activated with the infrared unit 23 in contact or establish a data connection.

Another functional unit of the smartframe is an energy supply unit 26 , which can include an energy storage, not shown, for example a battery or a rechargeable battery. The power supply unit 26 can with a charging module that can also be arranged in the Smartframe 27th be electrically connected. Via the charging module 27th and an inductive one with the charging module 27th cooperating external charger 28 the energy storage can be charged. In addition, a solar cell can be arranged on the smartframe, which can also serve to charge the energy store. It is also conceivable to obtain energy directly from the solar cell. The solar cell can be part of the energy supply unit 26 or the charging module 27th be. The solar cell can also be arranged separately and with the energy supply unit 26 and / or the charging unit can be electrically connected. As the 2nd The energy supply unit is further recognizable 26 Connected to the functional units, in particular to the control and computing unit, via suitable electrical connecting means, that is to say electrical lines 14 , the communication unit 7 and unity 5 for position determination.

Furthermore, the smartframe (optionally) can comprise a passive RFID tag 30. Such a one could be used for this, after its activation the control and computing unit 14 and / or to activate further functional units. To activate the RFID tag 30th can from a suitable transmitter 31 electromagnetic waves in the direction of the RFID tag 30th be sent out.

However, an active RFID tag or another transponder instead of a passive RFID tag is also conceivable 30th to use.

The functioning of the smartframe is explained below using an example for use in vehicles of a vehicle rental system. At this point, a vehicle rental system means either a car sharing system or another vehicle rental system. In the following, the explanation is exemplary and not restricted to a car sharing system. Such a car sharing system is characterized by a vehicle fleet consisting of a large number of vehicles. The system is operated by an operator 10th entertained and often operated and executed via an application software (app). The vehicles are distributed in a limited business area and can be rented by a customer or registered user via application software. The customer can park and start up a vehicle at various parking spaces in the business area or at specified "home" stations.

A customer or registered user of the car sharing system can use a data network 8th a rental or status request for a particular vehicle to the operator 10th of the car sharing system. This is primarily done using a customer's mobile device 9 on which a corresponding app is installed.

After receiving the request from the operator 10th or a server 11 of the operator 10th , the latter can send a data or status request in the direction of the motor vehicle intended for rent or the smart frame arranged thereon. The request is made through the communication unit 7 or an antenna 13 of the smartframe received.

Then the request data from the control and computing unit 14 processed. Data on the position of the vehicle (this can be done using the unit 5 to determine the position) or other required information is then generated by means of the control and computing unit 14 queried by the corresponding functional units of the smartframe and via the communication unit 7 towards the operator's server 11 sent back.

There, if necessary taking into account further data (these can be stored in a corresponding database), it can be determined whether the selected vehicle is available or not. This determination is communicated to the customer, who can then make a booking or reservation via the application software.

Such an availability status can also be determined without a specific customer request and on the display unit 4th of the smartframe are displayed continuously. Predefined time intervals can be specified for the query, at which an availability status through the interaction of the smartframe and an operator-side server 11 is determined. Such a status can also be automatically passed on and displayed by the operator to the smartframe after the end of the rental.

Reference symbol list

1

Carrier plate

2nd

Frame body

3rd

License plate

4th

Display unit

5

Position determination unit

6

antenna

7

Communication unit

8th

External data network

9

Terminal

10th

operator

11

server

12

SIM chip

13

antenna

14

Control and computing unit

15

Data processing module

16

Energy control module

17th

Display control module

18th

Module for controlling the switching on and off

19th

Voltage converter

20th

interface

21st

interface

22

interface

23

Infrared unit

24th

Infrared reader

25th

Service computing unit

26

Power supply unit

27th

Charging module

28

charger

29

driver

30th

RFID tag

31

Transmitter

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is only included 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.

Patent literature cited

• DE 202008012714 U1 [0005]
• WO 2016/201355 A1 [0009, 0058]

Claims (53)

Smartframe for a vehicle license plate of a motor vehicle, which is composed of a carrier plate (1) and a frame body (2) surrounding the carrier plate (1), the smartframe being set up to be fastened on the vehicle side and to hold a license plate (3) in position, and wherein the frame body (2) is set up to surround the license plate (3) at its edge regions, comprising at least the following functional units: - A display unit (4) arranged on the frame body (2), which is set up to optically display display information, for example information about a vehicle status; - A unit (5) for determining the position of the motor vehicle; - A communication unit (7) which is set up to transmit data to an external data network (8) and to receive data via the data network (8); - A control and computing unit (14); - And an energy supply unit (26) which is set up to supply the further functional units with energy. Smartframe after Claim 1 , characterized in that all functional units are arranged on the frame body (2). Smartframe after Claim 1 , characterized in that the energy supply unit (26) is arranged on the carrier plate (1) and the further functional units are arranged on the frame body (2). Smartframe after Claim 1 , characterized in that the energy supply unit (26) and at least one further of the functional units are arranged on the carrier plate (1). Smartframe after Claim 1 , characterized in that the energy supply unit (26) is set up to supply the further functional units with energy continuously, periodically or as required. Smartframe after Claim 1 , characterized in that the unit (5) for position determination can be operated on the basis of the GPS system, the Galileo system, the Glonass system or the Beidou system. Smartframe after Claim 1 , characterized in that the control and computing unit (14) is set up to control the energy supply and the operation of the functional units. Smartframe after Claim 1 , characterized in that the control and computing unit (14) is set up to forward the display information to the display unit (4). Smartframe after Claim 1 , characterized in that the carrier plate (1) and the frame body (2) are a one-piece component. Smartframe after Claim 1 , characterized in that the carrier plate (1) and the frame body (2) are separate, interconnectable components. Smartframe after Claim 1 , characterized by fastening means which are provided on the carrier plate (1) and / or the frame body (2) and are designed to hold the license plate (3). Smartframe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by fastening means which are provided on the carrier plate (1) and / or the frame body (2) and are designed to fasten the smartframe to the motor vehicle. Smartframe after Claim 1 , characterized in that the energy supply unit (26) comprises an energy store, for example a rechargeable battery. Smartframe after Claim 13 , characterized in that the energy store is arranged on the carrier plate (1). Smartframe after Claim 13 or 14 , characterized in that the energy supply unit (26) additionally has a charging module (27) connected to the energy store, by virtue of which the energy store can be charged. Smartframe according to one of the Claims 13 to 15 , characterized in that the energy store can be inductively charged via the charging module (27) and an external charger (28) which interacts with the charging module (27). Smartframe after Claim 15 , characterized in that the charging module (27) has an interface which is set up to charge the energy storage device by cable. Smartframe after Claim 13 , characterized in that in addition to the energy store a solar cell connected to it is provided, the energy store being chargeable by the energy provided by the solar cell. Smartframe after Claim 1 , characterized in that the display unit (4) comprises a single display module or a plurality of display modules arranged in a row, the display module (s) being an LCD display, an e-paper display or an LED display. Smartframe after Claim 1 , characterized in that with the display unit (4) a letter, number and / or character string can be optically displayed. Smartframe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the display unit (4) is arranged angled with respect to an outer surface of the carrier plate (2) or the frame body (3). Smartframe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the display unit is designed to be illuminated by a lighting unit provided on the smartframe or the motor vehicle. Smartframe after Claim 1 , characterized in that a position indication of the vehicle can be determined with the unit (5) for determining the position. Smartframe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a determined position information can be forwarded to the external data network via the control and computing unit (14) and the communication unit (7). Smartframe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the position of the motor vehicle can be determined continuously, periodically or on request by means of the unit (5) for determining the position. Smartframe after Claim 1 , characterized in that the communication unit (7) comprises a GSM or LTE module, a SIM chip (12) and an antenna (13). Smartframe after Claim 26 , characterized in that the SIM chip (12) is soldered onto a circuit board and the antenna (13) is formed directly on the circuit board. Smartframe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control and computing unit (14) has interfaces (20, 21, 22) via which it is connected to the further functional units. Smartframe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control and computing unit (14) comprises a central data processing module (15), a module (16) for energy control, a module for display control (17), and a module (18) for control of switching on and off. Smartframe after Claim 1 , characterized by an infrared unit (23) as a further functional unit connected to the control and computing unit (14) in terms of signal technology, the infrared unit (23) being set up to exchange data with an external infrared reading device (24). Smartframe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one security feature is provided on the smartframe. Smartframe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the smartframe has a reading unit which is set up to contactlessly read data from a data carrier arranged on the identification plate (3), for example an RFID chip or a legend. Smartframe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the smartframe has an RFID tag (30), for example a passive RFID tag. Smartframe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a sensor is arranged on the smartframe, which is set up to assemble or disassemble the license plate (3) on the smartframe and / or to assemble or disassemble the smartframe on the motor vehicle to recognize. Smartframe after Claim 34 , characterized in that the sensor is a capacitive sensor. Smartframe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a detection unit is provided on the smartframe, which is set up to detect a violent removal of the smartframe from a motor vehicle. Smartframe after Claim 36 , characterized in that the detection unit comprises an acceleration sensor. Smartframe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the smartframe is set up to receive and process encrypted data, and is also set up to encrypt and send out data. Smartframe according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the Smartframe a speaker unit and / or a microphone unit is arranged. Method for producing a smart frame for a vehicle license plate of a motor vehicle according to one of the Claims 1 to 39 , with at least the following steps: - providing a smartframe composed of a carrier plate (1) and a frame body (2), - arranging at least the following functional units on the smartframe: an energy supply unit (26), a display unit (4), a unit (5) for position determination, a communication unit (7), a control and computing unit (14), at least the display unit (4) being arranged on the frame body (2); - Providing signal connection means between the functional units; - Providing electrical connection means between the energy supply unit (26) and the further functional units. Procedure according to Claim 40 , characterized in that all functional units are arranged on the frame body (2). Procedure according to Claim 40 , characterized in that the energy supply unit (26) is arranged on the carrier plate (1) and the further functional units are arranged on the frame body (2). Procedure according to Claim 40 , characterized in that the energy supply unit (26) and at least one further of the functional units are arranged on the carrier plate (1). Procedure according to Claim 40 , characterized in that the carrier plate (1) and the frame body (2) are separate plastic components which are manufactured by means of an injection molding process. Procedure according to Claim 44 , characterized in that the carrier plate (1) and the frame body (2) are connected to one another via connecting means, for example clamping or screwing means. Procedure according to Claim 40 , characterized in that the carrier plate (1) and the frame body (2) are manufactured in one piece by means of an injection molding process. Procedure according to one of the Claims 40 to 46 , characterized in that the functional units are arranged on the smartframe by means of the injection molding process. Procedure according to one of the Claims 40 to 47 , characterized in that the functional units are arranged on the smartframe after injection molding. Procedure according to Claim 48 , characterized in that during injection molding in the carrier plate (1) and / or the frame body (2), construction spaces and / or fastening means are formed, which are set up to receive and / or fasten the functional units. Procedure according to Claim 40 , characterized in that fastening means are provided on the carrier plate (1) and / or the frame body (2) which are set up to fasten a license plate (3). Procedure according to Claim 40 , characterized in that fastening means are provided on the carrier plate (1) and / or the frame body (2) which are set up to fasten the smartframe on the vehicle side. Method of operating one of the Claims 1 to 39 Smartframes in a vehicle which is assigned to a vehicle fleet of a vehicle rental system, the smartframe being fastened on the vehicle side and composed of a carrier plate (1) and a frame body (2) surrounding the carrier plate (1), comprising the following continuously, periodically or at Operating processes that are required: - determining or querying status information relating to vehicle rental, in particular a reservation or availability status of the vehicle, and displaying the status information via the display unit (4) arranged on the frame body (2); - Acquisition of position data and transmission of the data to an external server. Use one after one of the Claims 1 to 39 Trained smart frames in a motor vehicle assigned to a vehicle fleet of a vehicle rental system, the smart frame being fastened on the vehicle side and being composed of a carrier plate (1) and a frame body (2) surrounding the carrier plate (1), and via a on the frame body (2) of the Smartframes arranged display unit (4) related to vehicle rental status information, in particular a reservation or availability status, can be displayed.

Images