DE102018222567A1 - Damage control station - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a control station for examining a vehicle, comprising a sensor device for detecting the vehicle and a terminal for interacting with a user, characterized in that the sensor device comprises at least one sensor unit and a movement means, the movement means being designed to perform the at least one To move the sensor unit relative to the vehicle; and wherein the sensor device is designed to detect the vehicle from at least four sides by receiving at least one signal.

Description

Carsharing is currently dependent on the human eye and the presence of the people involved. If you want to rent out a vehicle as the owner, because you don't need it for a certain period of time, for example, you use different platforms that combine supply and demand.

However, car sharing platforms often only combine supply and demand. In most cases, there is no concept that enables users to hand over the vehicle without the presence of the vehicle provider. Likewise, if the vehicle is simply parked, there is no automatic damage assessment. This can lead to the fact that damage to a vehicle cannot be directly attributed to a causer or that the lessee of a vehicle is wrongly held accountable for damage.

It would therefore be desirable if the vehicle state can be checked by a secure source, in particular a trusted source, after use in a secure method, in particular in a trusted method.

According to the invention, a control station for examining a vehicle comprises a sensor device and a terminal. The sensor device is designed to detect the vehicle, in particular the outer surfaces. The terminal is designed to interact with a user and to allow the user to interact with the control station. The sensor device comprises at least one sensor unit and a movement means.

By receiving at least one signal, the sensor device is able to detect the vehicle from at least four sides. The one or more movement means move the at least one sensor unit relative to the vehicle and thus enlarge the detection range of the sensor unit. This has the particular advantage that the sensor device can be made more compact and cheaper.

The control station can preferably comprise a cover. The control can be carried out particularly trouble-free through the cover.

It is further preferred that the control station can comprise a turntable. With the turntable, the vehicle can be rotated by up to 360 ° in the detection area of the control station and thus support the detection of the vehicle in an advantageous manner.

It is also preferred that the sensor device of the control station comprises an active component. The active component can send out signals or change the properties of signals, in particular the signals received by the sensor device. As a result, the detection of the vehicle is supported in a particularly advantageous manner and, in particular, more precise damage detection is made possible.

It is also preferred that the sensor device of the control station comprises a sensor area. The sensor area has at least one sensor unit and is designed such that the sensor unit can detect all surfaces of the vehicle facing the sensor unit during passage of the vehicle. In particular, a sensor area can essentially completely capture one side of the vehicle. The segmentation into sensor areas divides the detection of the different vehicle areas.

It is also preferred that the sensor device comprises a joint unit. The alignment and the position of the sensor device in the room can be changed by the joint unit. In particular, the sensor device can be flexibly positioned in the room. The joint unit can comprise a plurality of partial areas connected with joints. Due to the flexibility of the positioning, the sensor device can carry out the detection of the vehicle particularly advantageously and it can be manufactured more compactly and more cheaply.

It is further preferred that the control station, in particular the sensor device of the control station, can also detect the vehicle from above, from below, from the inside or any combination thereof. This has the particular advantage that damage or changes to the top, bottom and inside of the vehicle can also be detected. This provides greater security for damage detection and the vehicle state can be determined in a particularly advantageous manner.

It is particularly preferred that the control station comprises movement means that can move the control station. This has the particular advantage that the control station can be made more compact and cheaper and is so mobile that it can be used flexibly at different locations. In addition, it can also record parked and no longer roadworthy vehicles.

It is further preferred that the control station comprises a cleaning station. The cleaning station can clean the vehicle from the outside and / or from the inside, in particular the outside surfaces and / or the interior. This has the particular advantage that deviations can be better assessed after cleaning. In particular, damage can thus be better recognized and assessed. In addition, cleaning can ensure that the vehicle is in a usable condition for the next user and that he is not liable for damage that would otherwise have been covered by soiling.

It is also preferred that the control station comprises a modification station. The modification station can install, remove and / or replace vehicle parts and other extras. This has the particular advantage that the vehicle can be adapted to different users and usage situations.

It is particularly preferred that the control station comprises an automated parking system. After the inspection, the automated parking system can park the vehicle fully automatically in a suitable place.
This simplifies the parking of the vehicle for the user and prevents the user from damaging the vehicle during the parking process and after the check.

It is further preferred that the control station comprises a communication system. The communication system can communicate with the vehicle or outside. The communication system can control the vehicle from which. This has the advantage that the control station can use the sensors and the actuators of the vehicle and the data that are stored in the vehicle. Furthermore, it has the advantage that the communication system can communicate with a database or with an owner or a service facility, and to forward the results of the vehicle detection and, based on this, to request other actions, such as a repair.

It is also preferred that the control station comprises a mobile unit. The mobile unit comprises at least one sensor device and movement means. The mobile unit can foresee collisions, issue a warning, detect a collision, detect damage, give a navigation recommendation, document damage and receive or hand in the access device for the vehicle. All this supports not only the control of the vehicle, but also the process and safety of car sharing, in particular the delivery and parking of the vehicle.

In the method according to the invention for checking a vehicle, in which target data for a vehicle state are present, at least actual data of the vehicle are recorded, the recorded actual data are compared with the existing target data and deviations of the actual data from the target data are determined . The deviation can result from damage, contamination or modification of the vehicle. A probability of damage, a probability of contamination and / or a probability of modification can be calculated on the basis of various factors, such as location, appearance and size. This has the advantage that, in particular, different deviations can be determined and documented.

It is also preferred that the method comprises the step of loading target data. This has the advantage that the data does not have to be kept in stock in the control station for all potential vehicles, but can instead be called up flexibly, for example, from a server or from the vehicle, in particular in a particularly protected area in the vehicle.

It is further preferred that the method comprises the step of saving actual data. This has the advantage that the data for checking and as target data for a next check, for example in the vehicle, in particular in a particularly protected area in the vehicle, or on an external server, are stored and documented.

It is also particularly preferred that the method comprises the step of detecting the vehicle. This has the advantage that most of the components of the control station can be switched off or kept in a stand-by state, in particular by using less energy.

It is also preferred that the method comprises the step of identifying the vehicle. This can ensure that the data belonging to the vehicle can be correctly assigned and stored correctly.

It is further preferred that the method comprises the step of cleaning the vehicle. This has the advantage that damage and soiling can be distinguished from one another and better assigned. In addition, the vehicle can thus be prepared for the next use or the next user in a particularly advantageous manner.

It is also preferred that the method includes the step of modifying the vehicle. This has the advantage that damage and modifications are differentiated and better can be assigned. From this, the vehicle can thus be prepared in a particularly advantageous manner for the next use, the next usage situation or the next user.

It is preferred that the method comprises the step communicating to the outside. This has the advantage that not only can data be loaded from the outside, but also the result of the control can be passed on directly.

It is further preferred that the method comprises the step of controlling the vehicle. This has the advantage that the sensors and actuators of the vehicle can be used for the method.

It is also preferred that the method comprises the step of acquiring further actual data at the deviation points. This has the advantage that the points of deviation can be examined and recorded more precisely. In addition, new actual data can be recorded after modification or cleaning.

It is also preferred that the method comprises the step of performing a second control. This has the advantage that the detection can be carried out more precisely, in particular the detection at the points of deviation. In addition, new actual data can be recorded after modification or cleaning.

The control station can determine properties of a vehicle, in particular properties that are related to the vehicle condition. Above all, the surface of the vehicle is subjected to a test. However, it is also provided that other vehicle components, for example the interior, the engine compartment, the trunk, the tires or the underbody, can also be subjected to a test.

A control station that is located at different locations (e.g. central station) can be equipped with a sensor, in particular a sensor for depth detection, which enables a high-resolution, three-dimensional image of the vehicle to be generated. The control station can also be equipped with various lamps, in particular lamps that are used for surface control. This enables even the smallest scratches, dents or dents to be recognized. With other sources, in particular terahertz sources, the layer thickness of the lacquer can even be determined. Damage to the vehicle is recognized in the recordings by an algorithm, documented and stored in a database, preferably together with the three-dimensional image of the vehicle. The image and the damage report can be directly assigned to a vehicle based on the license plate. Damage can be reported directly to the owner of the vehicle. After successful detection, the user can drive the vehicle out of the control station and park it in an obvious, agreed or free parking space. An access device, for example a key, is deposited after the vehicle has been parked, for example in a terminal, in particular a terminal of the control station, for example in the form of a key machine. This process is acknowledged to the user and assigned to a process number. If you want to remove the access device from the terminal, it may be sufficient to show a valid driver's license for the vehicle and an access code. The terminal can verify the validity of the driver's license, the identity of the user and the access code. If everything has been successfully verified, the access device can be released and the process can be acknowledged and documented, in particular with a process number. This method or some of these processes can preferably be carried out using a distributed ledger method, since the security and verification of the transaction can thus be guaranteed in a particularly simple or advantageous manner.

The sensor device can include various sensors and / or sensor groups. The sensor device can include passive sensors. Passive sensors are sensors that are designed to receive signals, transmit them and possibly interpret them beforehand. Passive sensors can change their properties or change the properties of the signals, in particular also by means of movement. The sensor device can also comprise active components which can emit signals themselves or change the properties of signals, in particular the signals to be received. In addition, the sensor device can comprise movement means which are designed to change the position or the properties of the sensor device. The term sensor here also encompasses a device which itself can only generate and / or transmit signals, in which case there is at least one other sensor which is designed to receive and transmit at least one signal. In particular, such sensors can include light sources, antennas, sound sources, radiation sources and other forms of sources for electromagnetic radiation in particular. Electromagnetic radiation can be generated in the optical range, in the infrared range, in the UV range, terahertz range, in the millimeter range, in the centimeter range and in the range in between, as well as X-rays, radioactive radiation, laser radiation, Electron beams, neutron beams, atom beams and other forms of radiation and radiation can be used. Sensors can include suitable mirrors, lenses, prisms, adaptive optics, filters and other components that can change the properties of signals. In particular, properties such as wavelength range, frequency range, polarization, intensity, coherence, phase, spatial extent, parallelism, luminance or radiation density, shape and / or direction can be changed. Possible embodiments of sensors are, for example, cameras, in particular optical cameras, 3-D cameras, time-of-flight cameras (TOF), laser scanners, strip light scanners, light field cameras and spectral analyzers. In particular, sensors can also be used, the reaction of which is based not only on the intensity, but in particular also on the intensity distribution. In addition, other properties, such as driving noise, emission values and weight, can also be used to determine the properties of the vehicle.

Signals here are, in particular, signals emitted by the sensor device or other devices in the direction of the vehicle and the signals received from the direction of the vehicle, in particular the emitted signals which have been modified by the vehicle. Examples of such emitted signals are, in particular, light rays, electromagnetic rays and / or sound. Examples of such received signals are the emitted signals reflected by the vehicle, in particular by the surface of the vehicle. These signals can be modified in particular in the properties of intensity, spectrum and direction.

Movement means are means that generate a movement or support a movement. Movement means can comprise actuators, in particular electrical actuators, motors, drives, in particular hydraulic drives, generators, effectors and other means generating a movement. Movement means can also include wheels, rails, bearings, in particular slide bearings, lubricants, and other means that support movement.

The vehicle is preferably detected fully automatically. Alternatively or additionally, the vehicle is preferably first detected before or during the entry. The detection of the vehicle ensures that the control station only becomes active when a vehicle is to be checked by the control station. It can also prevent the control station from being actively and possibly damaged or causing damage by another object or person. The vehicle can be detected in various ways, for example via optical detection, for example with the aid of a camera, a light barrier or a light signal emitted by the vehicle, via electromagnetic detection, for example with the aid of magnetic field detection, inductive detection or electromagnetic signal emitted by the vehicle, such as a radio signal, near-field communication, via an auditory detection, for example via the detection of driving noises, engine noises or another audio signal, and / or via a force detection, for example via a detection of one Force exerted by the sensor plate, in particular the weight force exerted by a vehicle. The detection of the vehicle can also be carried out by a user who notifies the control station of the presence of a vehicle, for example via the terminal or from an external device, preferably belonging to the user. Alternatively or additionally, the vehicle is identified. The identification of the vehicle is preferably also done fully automatically. The vehicle identification identifies certain features that are inherent in the special vehicle that has just been brought into the control station and that can be important for the control. By identifying the vehicle, the vehicle can be assigned to a database entry, such as an owner, a previous examination, a vehicle type, vehicle properties such as size, weight, color, and a current user. The properties of size, weight, color and the data from a previous examination are particularly important for a subsequent analysis of the vehicle. As with the detection of the vehicle and described there, the data can take place in various ways. In particular, the identification of the vehicle can be carried out by recording the license plate, a QR code, an identification device issued by the operator of the control station and placed in the vehicle, a near-field communication device which can in particular send and / or receive electromagnetic signals, a chassis number and others, characteristics specific to the identity of the vehicle. However, the data can also be delivered to the control station manually by a user, for example via the terminal, or by an external device, preferably belonging to the user. When the vehicle is detected, the outside area of the vehicle, in particular the surface of the vehicle, is detected by the sensor device. This is done by the sensors receiving suitable signals in order to be able to assess the condition of the exterior of the vehicle. However, the sensors can also first send suitable signals in order to then evaluate the. Based on the reaction of the exterior of the vehicle To receive appropriate signals. In particular, this can be done by the signal sources described above and the other embodiments of the sensors. The actual state is determined by the detection of the vehicle. It is also provided that not only the current state of the exterior of the vehicle can be determined, but also the current state of the interior, in particular the interior.

By analyzing the vehicle, the actual state of the vehicle can be compared with a past state. The past state can be used as the target state and deviations of the actual state from the target state can indicate possible damage. However, the deviations can also indicate modifications or contamination. A probability of damage, modification and / or contamination can be calculated based on the position, type and extent of the deviations. The accuracy and the predictive power of the analysis can be improved by a second, in particular more precise, detection of the points at which deviations have occurred. The past state can be determined or derived from construction plans, from a previous recording, using the same or different methods, and / or from another source, such as manufacturer information, workshop documents or the like, in particular the vehicle state can be stored in a database or be deposited. The database can be implemented on the vehicle side, on the owner's side, on the control station side and / or on a server which is directly or indirectly connected to the control station. The database can in particular also be implemented using a distributed ledger method.

After the analysis, the vehicle is advantageously parked fully automatically in a suitable place, such as a parking area. For example, after the analysis, the vehicle may be parked at a suitable location by a driver assistance system. Alternatively or additionally, after the analysis, the vehicle can be picked up by a parking robot and parked at a suitable location. Alternatively or additionally, the control station can also be connected to an automatic parking garage which receives the vehicle from the control station. In particular, the vehicle can also be brought to a parking space by, for example, a conveyor belt. The vehicle can also be parked by a user or another person.

In order to avoid and / or document damage to the vehicle during the parking process, the control station can have a mobile unit, for example a drone, which accompanies the vehicle during the parking process. The mobile unit can be designed to anticipate at least one of collisions, issue warnings, detect collisions, detect damage, give navigation recommendations, document damage and receive or deliver access devices for the vehicle. The mobile unit is at least equipped with a sensor device and movement means.

Deposits such as dirt, water, ice, snow can damage the vehicle and may therefore not be recognized. The control station can therefore advantageously also comprise a cleaning station. The cleaning station can subject the vehicle, in particular the outer surfaces of a vehicle, to cleaning, which can be connected upstream of the analysis control station or can be carried out after the analysis. The cleaning station can include various cleaning agents such as brushes, wipers, nozzles, cloths, sponges, rollers and cleaning liquids and other cleaning agents, as well as a blower. In a first step, the control station preferably carries out an analysis of the vehicle and then, if required, cleaning the vehicle from the cleaning station. The vehicle can then be subjected to a renewed analysis by the control station, in particular at the points at which the control station has identified contamination and at which the cleaning station has carried out cleaning. In this way it can be excluded that damage due to contamination has been covered and not recognized. Care must be taken to ensure that cleaning does not damage the vehicle. For this purpose, the cleaning station can also be equipped with various sensor devices that monitor the cleaning of the vehicle.

Vehicle users can also leave garbage, dirt, bad smells, and other debris inside the vehicle. The cleaning station can therefore also be designed to clean the interior of the vehicle. For this purpose, the cleaning station advantageously includes cleaning devices, in particular cleaning devices such as, for example, a vacuum cleaner, an upholstery cleaner, a surface cleaner, an odor neutralizer, a fragrance dispenser, a window cleaner and other cleaning agents. At least a few of the cleaning devices can preferably be used in the vehicle interior by a machine, in particular by at least one robot arm, with corresponding sensor devices. But it is also envisaged that mobile units both Carry out internal and external cleaning or can assist with cleaning.

Furthermore, the control station can advantageously also comprise a modification station. The modification station allows vehicle parts and other extras to be removed, replaced and / or installed. For example, old seat covers, floor mats, steering wheel covers, upholstery, seats, tires, spikes, snow chains, roof racks, bike racks, towbars, bumpers, trailers can be removed or new ones installed. The removed parts can then be cleaned or given for cleaning. Other vehicle parts, such as child seats, cup holders, design extras, such as wheel trims, wobble dachshunds or vehicle cubes, spoilers, thresholds, lighting, audio amplifiers, can be removed as needed or installed for the next user. Care must be taken to ensure that the modification does not damage the vehicle. For this purpose, the modification station can also be equipped with various sensor devices that monitor the modification of the vehicle.

The control station can also be designed to communicate with the retracted vehicle via a communication system and / or to control it. For example, the control station can access sensors and data located in or on the vehicle in order to determine the state of the vehicle or to assist in the ascertainment of the vehicle state. For example, the control station can access an existing interior camera to record the state of the vehicle interior or data stored in the vehicle that can provide information on damage, in particular due to an accident. The control station can also access signal sources located in or on the vehicle in order to ascertain the state of the vehicle or to assist in the ascertainment of the vehicle state. For example, the control station can initiate or control the activation of light sources, in particular headlights, taillights and / or other light sources located on or in the vehicle, in order to determine the state of the vehicle or to assist in the ascertainment of the vehicle state. The control station can also, for example, activate or control the activation of vehicle factor gates in order to move the vehicle and / or parts thereof. For example, the control station can cause the vehicle to drive forwards or backwards, to turn the wheels, to open or close covers, such as, for example, trunk covers or bonnet covers, windows and / or doors.

The control station can also communicate the state of the vehicle to the outside after the analysis and / or the parking. In this way, a user, in particular the last user, the owner, but also a company, in particular a service company, such as a workshop, can be notified. The vehicle can then preferably also be brought fully automatically into the sphere of influence of the service company or access to the vehicle can be released for the service company. The control station can also be designed to communicate with an external device, such as a smartphone, a tablet, a smart watch or a technology that replaces these communication technologies. In particular, payment transactions can be carried out in this way, in particular to allow a user to pay for the use, the cleaning and / or the damage to a vehicle.

• 1a - 1d: eine Kontrollstation gemäß einer ersten bis einer vierten erfindungsgemäßen Ausführungsform,
• 2a und 2b: eine Kontrollstation gemäß einer fünften und sechsten erfindungsgemäßen Ausführungsform,
• 3 eine Kontrollstation gemäß einer siebten erfindungsgemäßen Ausführungsform,
• 4 eine Kontrollstation gemäß einer achten erfindungsgemäßen Ausführungsform,
• 5 eine Kontrollstation gemäß einer neunten erfindungsgemäßen Ausführungsform,
• 6 eine Kontrollstation gemäß einer zehnten erfindungsgemäßen Ausführungsform,
• 7 eine Kontrollstation gemäß einer elften erfindungsgemäßen Ausführungsform, und
• 8 eine Kontrollstation gemäß einer zwölften erfindungsgemäßen Ausführungsform.
• 9 ein Ablaufdiagram eines erfindungsgemäßen Verfahrens.

Further features, properties and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description with reference to the accompanying figures. It shows schematically:

• 1a - 1d a control station according to a first to a fourth embodiment according to the invention,
• 2a and 2 B a control station according to a fifth and sixth embodiment according to the invention,
• 3rd a control station according to a seventh embodiment of the invention,
• 4th a control station according to an eighth embodiment according to the invention,
• 5 a control station according to a ninth embodiment according to the invention,
• 6 a control station according to a tenth embodiment of the invention,
• 7 a control station according to an eleventh embodiment according to the invention, and
• 8th a control station according to a twelfth embodiment of the invention.
• 9 a flow diagram of a method according to the invention.

Although the invention has been illustrated and described in detail by the preferred exemplary embodiments, the invention is not restricted by the disclosed examples. Variations on this can be derived by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the following claims.

In the 1a - 1d are perspective views of various embodiments of a control station 1 shown, all at least one movable sensor device 5 exhibit. The control station 1 includes an entrance area 2nd to a vehicle (not shown) entering the control station 1 to enable a sensor device 5 to detect, identify and / or analyze the vehicle, as well as a terminal 9 in order to identify a driver, to deposit or access access devices and / or with the control station 1 to interact. In these embodiments, the terminal is 9 separately and outside the control station 1 realized and can therefore be at some distance from the control station 1 be localized. The terminal 9 can also be in the control station 1 be integrated.

The terminal 9 preferably has an interaction unit 10 for interaction with a user. The interaction unit can 10 also be designed to receive and / or deliver an access device for a vehicle. The interaction unit preferably comprises an input device based on touch and / or based on natural language, in particular based on gestures and / or audio. Alternatively or additionally, the interaction unit comprises 10 a sensor device such as a camera to identify and authenticate a user. Alternatively or additionally, the interaction unit can be designed as a communication device for communication with an external device, such as a smartphone, a tablet, a smart watch or a technology that replaces these communication technologies. The interaction facility 10 can also be designed to carry out payment transactions, in particular to allow a user to pay for the use, cleaning, modification and / or damage to a vehicle.

Alternatively or in addition, the 1a to 1d control station shown 1 via a cover (not shown), such as a gate, with which the entrance area 2nd can be covered. Then the sensors 5 ' , 5 " can also be moved in such a way that they can essentially completely circle the vehicle. By covering the entrance area 2nd can influence from outside the control station 1 that when the vehicle is detected by the sensor device 5 could interfere, be reduced or avoided. For example, the cover can reduce or prevent optical and / or other electromagnetic radiation, sound, air movements, pressure and temperature fluctuations. In addition, interference by people can thus be prevented or avoided.

In the 1a includes the sensor device 5 a sensor unit 5 ' and a sensor unit 5 " each with a movement means (not shown) that allows the sensor unit 5 ' , 5 " in the arrow directions along the rails 6 ' , 6 " to move. The rails 6 ' , 6 " are designed and arranged here in such a way that the sensor units 5 ' , 5 " can detect the vehicle that has entered the control station from at least three sides. If the control station is designed such that the vehicle is completely in the control station 1 The sensor units can be accommodated 5 ' , 5 " also at least partially capture the fourth side of the vehicle. Sensor unit 5 " is designed and positioned here in such a way that it can at least partially grasp the vehicle from above.

In the 1b includes the sensor device 5 a sensor unit 5 ' , the rails 6 ' , 6 " and 6 "' , Moving means (not shown) and a joint unit 7 . With the aid of the movement means, the sensor unit 5 ' along the rail 6 "' be moved in a substantially vertical direction. In this embodiment, the rail 6 "' via movement means, not shown, along the rails 6 ' , 6 " be moved in a substantially horizontal direction. Furthermore, the sensor unit can be moved with the aid of moving means 5 ' a rotation around the joint unit 7 To run. The rotation around the joint unit 7 is essentially only limited by the structural implementation, but advantageously includes the possibility of the sensor unit 5 ' to move along a spherical surface, in particular a hemisphere. Due to the mobility of the sensor unit 5 ' can thus be placed in the control station 1 retracted vehicle are essentially completely captured from at least 3 sides. Furthermore, due to the mobility of the sensor unit 5 one in the control station 1 retracted vehicle are at least partially detected from above and / or below. It is also due to the mobility of the sensor unit 5 ' it is possible that, in particular when the windows are open, covers, such as, for example, trunk covers or bonnet covers, and / or doors, at least a portion of the interior of the vehicle can be detected. In addition, a turntable 12th on the floor of the control station 1 arranged and designed to be a complete, ie at least with all parts in contact with the ground, in particular the wheels, on the turntable 12th vehicle in rotation about a vertical axis of rotation A vehicle that is fully in the control station 1 is retracted and completely on the turntable 12th is located on the turntable 12th can be rotated in a range from 0 ° to 360 °. Through the turntable 12th , especially on or on the turntable 12th Arranged sensor devices can also provide information about the weight of the Torque and / or the weight distribution of the vehicle can be obtained.

In the 1c includes the sensor device 5 a sensor unit 5 ' , Moving means (not shown), a rail 6 'and a joint unit 7 . In this embodiment, the rail 6 'is designed to move in a substantially vertical direction. The joint unit 7 , and with it also the sensor unit 5 ' , can run along the rail 6 ' move in a substantially horizontal direction. The joint unit 7 is designed to be the sensor unit 5 a substantially horizontal and to the horizontal direction of movement of the joint unit 7 along the rail 6 ' to move essentially perpendicular direction. Furthermore, the sensor unit can be moved with the aid of moving means 5 ' a rotation around the joint unit 7 To run. The rotation around the joint unit 7 is essentially only limited by the structural implementation, but advantageously includes the possibility of the sensor unit 5 ' to move along a spherical surface, in particular a hemisphere. Due to the mobility of the sensor unit 5 ' can thus be placed in the control station 1 retracted vehicle essentially at least from three sides, particularly advantageously from 4 sides. Furthermore, due to the mobility of the sensor unit 5 one in the control station 1 retracted vehicle are at least partially detected from above and below. It is also due to the mobility of the sensor unit 5 ' It is possible that, in particular when the windows are open, covers, such as, for example, trunk covers or bonnet covers, and / or doors, but also through at least partially transparent areas of the vehicle, such as, for example, a window or a headliner, at least a partial area of the interior of the vehicle or of the vehicle interior can be detected.

In the 1d includes the sensor device 5 a sensor unit 5 ' , Moving means (not shown), a rail 6 'and a joint unit 7 . In this embodiment, the rail 6 'is designed to move in a substantially vertical direction. The joint unit 7 , and with it also the sensor unit 5 ' , can run along the rail 6 ' move in a substantially horizontal direction. The joint unit 7 includes several sub-areas here 8th' , 8th" , 8th'" the one with joints 7 '- 7 "" , in particular ball joints, are connected to each other and with the help of which the sensor unit 5 ' can be flexibly positioned in the room. The subareas 8'- 8 "' can also be designed to change in their extent, in particular longitudinally and / or perpendicularly thereto. The rotation around the joints 7'- 7 "" is essentially only limited by the structural implementation, but advantageously includes the possibility of moving the connected parts along a spherical surface. Due to the mobility of the sensor unit 5 ' can thus be placed in the control station 1 retracted vehicle are essentially completely captured from all sides. Furthermore, due to the mobility of the sensor unit 5 one in the control station 1 retracted vehicle can be detected essentially completely from above and at least partially from below. It is also due to the mobility of the sensor unit 5 ' It is possible that, in particular when the windows are open, covers, such as, for example, trunk covers or bonnet covers, and / or doors, but also through at least partially transparent areas of the vehicle, such as, for example, a window or a headliner, at least a partial area of the interior of the vehicle or of the vehicle interior can be detected.

Even if the rails in all the aforementioned embodiments 6'- 6 "' and thus the anchorages of the sensor device 5 are attached substantially laterally to the walls, it is also encompassed by the present invention that the sensor device 5 is anchored in another place, for example on the ceiling, and from there to a suitable extent, even without the rails 6'- 6 "' is moved in order to capture a retracted vehicle essentially completely, in particular from all sides and from above, but also at least partially from below. In particular the 1d The joint unit shown can advantageously also be anchored to the ceiling in this way.

In the 2a and 2 B are views of different embodiment of a control station 1 shown, in which all an essentially rigid sensor device 5 exhibit. The control station includes an entrance area 2nd to a vehicle (not shown) entering the control station 1 to enable a sensor device 5 to detect, identify and / or analyze the vehicle, as well as a terminal 9 in order to identify a driver, to deposit or access access devices and / or with the control station 1 to interact. In these embodiments, the terminal is 9 in the control station 1 integrated, however, the terminal 9 also separately and outside the control station 1 can be realized and can therefore also be at some distance from the control station 1 be localized.

In the perspective view of the 2a includes the sensor device 5 more than one sensor unit, here the sensor units 5'- 5 "' that are inside the control station 1 are attached. The sensor units 5'- 5 "' are arranged essentially vertically one above the other and slightly tilted against each other. On the floor of the control station 1 is a turntable 12th arranged and designed to be a complete, ie at least with everyone, with parts in contact with the ground, especially the wheels, on the turntable 12th vehicle in rotation about a vertical axis of rotation A vehicle that is fully in the control station 1 is retracted and completely on the turntable 12th is located on the turntable 12th can be rotated in a range from 0 ° to 360 °. By rotating the turntable 12th can the vehicle from the sensor units 5'- 5 "' essentially completely from all sides and at least partially from below or above. Through the turntable 12th , especially on or on the turntable 12th arranged sensor devices, information about the weight, the torque and / or the weight distribution of the vehicle can also be obtained.

The top view of a control station 1 in 2 B includes the sensor device 5 more than one sensor unit, here the sensor units 5'- 5 "" that are inside the control station 1 are attached. The sensor units 5'- 5 "" are essentially at essentially opposite points, here in opposite corners, of the control station 1 arranged. As a result, a vehicle can be detected, preferably even while entering the vehicle. By positioning the sensor units 5 '- 5 "" at essentially opposite points, in particular in opposite corners, of the control station 1 can the vehicle when it is essentially completely in the control station 1 has essentially been completely captured from all sides. Depending on the orientation of the sensor units 5'- 5 "" an at least partial detection of the vehicle from above or from below is also possible. A sensor unit 5'- 5 "" can also be in the form of the sensor device 5 as in the 2a is shown, can be realized, whereby the detection from below or from above can be improved.

In the 3-5 are perspective views of further embodiments of a control station 1 shown. The control station 1 includes an entrance area 2nd , an exit area 2 ′ a sensor device 5 to detect, identify and / or analyze the vehicle, as well as a terminal 9 in order to identify a driver, to deposit or access access devices and / or with the control station 1 to interact. In the embodiments of the 3rd - 6 is the terminal 9 in the control station 1 integrated, however, the terminal 9 also separately and outside the control station 1 can be realized and can therefore also be at some distance from the control station 1 be localized.

In the 3rd includes the control station 1 additionally a sensor device 13 to detect, identify and / or analyze the vehicle. The sensor device 5 here comprises several sensor areas, here only two sensor areas 15 ' , 15 " are shown. Other sensor areas are also on the sensor areas 15 ' and 15 " opposite sides of the control station 1 arranged. The sensor device 13 is optionally arranged here so that it can detect a vehicle before it enters the control station 1 retracts, especially before it reaches the sensor areas 15 ' , 15 " reached. By detecting the vehicle, other parts of the control unit can 1 be activated from a stand-by mode or a switched-off state. When the vehicle is over the driveway 2nd to the control station 1 drives in and over the exit area 2 ' the control station 1 leaves again, the vehicle passes the sensor areas shown and not shown. Sensor units can be arranged within these areas such that the sensor units can detect all surfaces of the vehicle directly facing at least the sensor units during the passage. In the sensor areas, the sensor units can either be arranged flat, so that essentially no movement of the sensor units is necessary, or selectively, so that the sensor units can be moved within the sensor areas by moving means. At least the right and left sides, as well as the top and bottom of the vehicle, can be essentially completely detected by sensor regions arranged in this way. In both cases, the sensor units can also be equipped with movement means that allow the sensor units to tilt within the sensor areas. By at least small changes in the angle of the alignment of the sensor units, more data can be recorded for more advantageous detection of the vehicle. In particular, the front and rear of the vehicle can thus also be at least partially detected.

In the 4th includes the control station 1 additionally a sensor device 14 to detect, identify and / or analyze the vehicle. The sensor device 5 here comprises several sensor areas, here only two sensor areas 15 ' , 15 " are shown. Other sensor areas are also on the sensor areas 15 ' and 15 " opposite sides of the control station 1 arranged. In this embodiment, the sensor device expands 14 essentially across the entire width of the exit area 2 ' out. The sensor device comprises 14 at least one moving means around the sensor device 14 to move in the vertical direction and a sensor area 15 "' . The sensor device 14 is arranged here so that it is a vehicle that enters the control station 1 retracts, essentially frontally, ie from the front, through the sensor area 15 '" can capture. The movement means that Sensor device 14 capture different areas of the vehicle from the front. Furthermore, the mobility of the sensor device enables 14 the passage of the vehicle through the control station 1 . The sensor device 14 can also be designed to detect a vehicle before it enters the control station 1 retracts, especially before the sensor areas shown and not shown 15 ' , 15 " reached. By detecting the vehicle, other parts of the control unit can 1 be activated from a stand-by mode or a switched-off state. When the vehicle is over the driveway 2nd to the control station 1 drives in and over the exit area 2 ' the control station 1 leaves again, the vehicle passes the sensor areas shown and not shown.

Sensor units can be arranged within the sensor areas such that the sensor units can detect all surfaces of the vehicle directly facing at least the sensor units during the passage. In the sensor areas, the sensor units can either be arranged flat, so that essentially no movement of the sensor units is necessary, or selectively, so that the sensor units can be moved within the sensor areas by moving means. At least the right and left sides, the front and the top and bottom of the vehicle can be essentially completely detected by sensor regions arranged in this way. In both cases, the sensor units can also be equipped with movement means that allow the sensor units to tilt within the sensor areas. By at least small changes in the angle of the alignment of the sensor units, more data can be recorded for more advantageous detection of the vehicle. In addition, the sensor device 13 also be designed such that they also on that of the sensor area 15 '" opposite side comprises a sensor area or includes corresponding movement means that allow the alignment of the sensor area 15 '" to change such that the sensor device 13 can also essentially completely capture the rear of the vehicle. In particular, the control station 1 also at least partially capture the rear of the vehicle.

In the 5 includes the sensor device 5 here several sensor areas, here only three sensor areas 15 ' , 15 " and 15 "' are shown. Another sensor area is also on the sensor area 15 ' opposite side of the control station 1 arranged. In this embodiment, the sensor areas are 15 " and 15 '" Arranged on the right or left side of the control station, however, comprise movement means that allow the sensor areas 15 " and 15 "' in a horizontal direction within the control station 1 to move and to rotate at least one vertical axis of rotation. This allows the sensor areas 15 " and 15 '" one in the control station 1 Detect incoming vehicle essentially from the front, ie from the front. The sensor areas can be moved by the movement means 15 " and 15 '" capture different areas of the vehicle from the front and from different angles. Furthermore, the mobility of the sensor areas enables 15 " and 15 '" the passage of the vehicle through the control station 1 . The sensor areas 15 " and 15 '" can also be designed to detect a vehicle before it enters the control station 1 retracts, especially before the sensor area not shown and shown 15 ' reached. By detecting the vehicle, other parts of the control unit can 1 be activated from a stand-by mode or a switched-off state. When the vehicle is over the driveway 2nd to the control station 1 drives in and over the exit area 2 ' the control station 1 leaves again, the vehicle passes the sensor areas shown and not shown.

Sensor units can be arranged within the sensor areas such that the sensor units can detect all surfaces of the vehicle directly facing at least the sensor units during the passage. In the sensor areas, the sensor units can either be arranged flat, so that essentially no movement of the sensor units is necessary, or selectively, so that the sensor units can be moved within the sensor areas by moving means. At least the right and left sides, the front and the top and bottom of the vehicle can be essentially completely detected by sensor regions arranged in this way. In both cases, the sensor units can also be equipped with movement means that allow the sensor units to tilt within the sensor areas. By at least small changes in the angle of the alignment of the sensor units, more data can be recorded for more advantageous detection of the vehicle. In addition, the movement means of the sensor areas 15 " and 15 ''' also be designed such that they also rotate the sensor areas 15 " and 15 '" Allow around a second vertical axis of rotation, even after the vehicle has passed the control station 1 has essentially passed the sensor areas 15 " and 15 '" can essentially completely grasp the rear of the vehicle. The different sensor areas can also be arranged offset to one another. In particular, the sensor area 15 'and the sensor area, not shown 15 ' opposite sensor area also offset to the sensor areas 15 " and 15 '" be arranged. This enables the movement of the sensor areas 15 " and 15 '" not directly on or above / below the sensor area 15 'and the sensor area 15 'opposite sensor area takes place. The control station 1 can also be configured such that the sensor areas 15 " and 15 '" can be sunk in the right or left side of the control station.

In the 6 and 7 are perspective views of another embodiment of a control station 1 shown. The control station includes 1 a sensor device 5 to detect, identify and / or analyze the vehicle and moving means, not shown, to the control station 1 to move. The sensor device 5 the in 6 shown control station 1 is analogous to that in 3rd shown embodiment formed. In this embodiment, a vehicle to be detected is in a parking area 3rd switched off. The control station becomes in particular by rails, wheels and / or other suitable means 1 moved in such a way that at least the right and left side, as well as the top and bottom of the vehicle, can be essentially completely detected by the sensor areas. Analogous to that in 3rd Sensor units shown, the sensor units can also be equipped with moving means that allow a tilting movement of the sensor units within the sensor areas. By at least small changes in the angle of the alignment of the sensor units, more data can be recorded for more advantageous detection of the vehicle. In particular, the front and rear of the vehicle can thus also be at least partially detected.

In the 7 The perspective view shown of another embodiment is similar to that in FIG 6 shown embodiment, the lower sensor area 15 " is missing. In addition, the control unit comprises several wheels, wherein in 7 only the wheels 16 ' , 16 " , 16 '" are shown. The control station can or can be used with the wheels 1 move. The movement allows the sensor areas to at least essentially completely capture the right and left sides as well as the top of the vehicle. Analogous to that in 3rd Sensor units shown, the sensor units can also be equipped with moving means that allow a tilting movement of the sensor units within the sensor areas. By at least small changes in the angle of the alignment of the sensor units, more data can be recorded for more advantageous detection of the vehicle. In particular, the front and rear of the vehicle can thus also be at least partially detected. Also in the in the 6 and 7 Embodiments shown, it can be advantageous to use movable sensor areas, as shown in the 4th and 5 shown and disclosed in the associated descriptions to use, in particular to be able to detect the front and rear of the vehicle.

In 8th is another embodiment of a control station 1 shown. This embodiment includes the possibility of integrating various sub-aspects of the aforementioned other embodiments. So on the visible and invisible inner surfaces 18th the control station 1 movable and / or rigid sensor devices, as described in the previous embodiments, are attached and used. Furthermore, on the visible and invisible inner surfaces 18th the control station 1 movable and / or rigid cleaning devices and / or modification devices are attached and used. Similar techniques and methods as described for the movement of the sensor devices in the previous embodiments can also be used for this purpose. On the floor of the control station 1 can be a turntable 12th ( 1 b and 2a) be used to turn the vehicle. The lanes 19th can also be part of a conveyor system, for example, to move the vehicle. Both the entrance and the exit area can be closed with a cover, such as a gate. Then sensor devices or sensor units can also be moved such that they can essentially completely circle the vehicle. By covering the exit or entry area, influences from outside the control station can be avoided 1 that could interfere with the detection of the vehicle by the sensor device can be reduced or avoided. For example, the covers can reduce or prevent optical and / or other electromagnetic radiation, sound, air movements, pressure and temperature fluctuations. In addition, interference by people can thus be prevented or avoided.

In 9 a method according to the invention is shown. In step S1 the actual data of the vehicle are recorded. In step S2 the recorded actual data are then compared with the existing target data. In step S3 then deviations of the actual state from the target state are determined based on the comparison. In step S4 Then at least one of a damage probability, a contamination probability and a modification probability at the points at which in the step S3 a deviation was found, determined or calculated.
Alternatively or additionally, further steps according to the invention can be carried out, for example: loading of target data; Backup of actual data; Detecting the vehicle; Identifying the vehicle; Cleaning the vehicle; Modifying the vehicle; Communicating to the outside; Steering the vehicle; Acquisition of further actual data at the deviation points; and performing a second check.

Reference list

1

Control station

2nd

Entrance area

2 '

Exit area

3rd

Parking area

5

Sensor device

5 ', 5 ", 5'", 5 ""

Sensor unit

6, 6 ', 6 "

rails

7

Joint unit

7 ', 7 ", 7"', 7 ""

joint

8 ', 8 ", 8"'

Subarea

9

terminal

10th

Interaction unit

12th

Turntable

13, 14

Sensor device

15 ', 15 ", 15"'

Sensor range

18th

Inner surface

19th

lane

S1, S2, S3, S4

step

Claims (10)

Control station (1) for examining a vehicle, comprising a sensor device (5) for detecting the vehicle and a terminal (9) for interacting with a user, characterized in that the sensor device (5) has at least one sensor unit (5 ', 5 ", 5 "', 5"") and a movement means, the movement means being designed to move the at least one sensor unit (5', 5", 5 "', 5"") relative to the vehicle; and wherein the sensor device (5) is designed to detect the vehicle from at least four sides by receiving at least one signal. Control station (1) after Claim 1 , characterized in that the control station (1) at least one of (i) a cover; and (ii) a turntable (12); includes. Control station (1) after Claim 1 or 2nd , characterized in that the sensor device (5) at least one of (i) an active component; and (ii) a sensor area (15 ', 15 ", 15"''); wherein the active component is designed to emit signals or to change the properties of signals, in particular the signals to be received; and wherein the sensor area (15 ', 15 ", 15'") comprises at least one sensor unit (5 ', 5 ", 5"', 5 "") and is designed such that the at least one sensor unit (5 ', 5 ", 5"' , 5 "") can detect all surfaces of the vehicle facing the sensor unit (5 ', 5 ", 5"', 5 "") during passage of the vehicle. Control station (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor device (5) comprises a joint unit (7) which is designed to flexibly position the sensor device (5) in space, the joint unit (7) in particular several , With sections (7 '- 7 "") connected partial areas (8', 8 ", 8"'). Control station (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sensor device (5) is designed to additionally move the vehicle from at least one of (i) from above; (ii) from below; and (iii) from the inside, in particular the interior; capture. Control station (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control station (1) comprises movement means which are designed to move the control station (1). Control station (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control station (1) at least one of (i) a cleaning station; (ii) a modification station; (iii) an automated parking system; and (iv) a communication system; comprises, wherein the cleaning station is designed to clean at least one of the outer surfaces and the interior of the vehicle; wherein the modification station is configured to install, remove and replace vehicle parts and other extras at least one; wherein the automated parking system is designed to park the vehicle fully automatically in a suitable location; and wherein the communication system is configured to communicate at least one of the with the vehicle, to control the vehicle and to communicate externally. Control station (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the control station (1) comprises a mobile unit, wherein the mobile unit comprises a sensor device and movement means and is designed to anticipate at least one of collisions, issue warnings, detect collisions, detect damage, give navigation recommendations, document damage and receive or deliver access devices for the vehicle . Method for checking a vehicle, from which target data on a vehicle state are present, characterized in that the method comprises the steps (i) acquiring actual data of the vehicle; (ii) comparing the recorded actual data with the existing target data (iii) determining deviations (iv) calculating a damage probability, a contamination probability and / or a modification probability at the deviation points. includes. Procedure according to Claim 9 , characterized in that the method additionally at least one of the steps: (i) loading of target data (ii) saving of actual data (iii) detecting the vehicle (iv) identifying the vehicle (v) cleaning the vehicle (vi) Modifying the vehicle (vii) Communicating to the outside (viii) Controlling the vehicle (ix) Acquiring further actual data at the deviation points (x) Carrying out a second check

Images