Abstract
A system for checking an operating state of a component on a vehicle, in particular on a commercial vehicle, comprising a detection device which detects information in the form of a data set, in particular an image data set, in a defined region on the vehicle, the defined region comprising the component to be checked, and an evaluation device to which the data set is provided, wherein the evaluation device is configured to determine the operating state of the component on the basis of the detected data set, wherein the detection device is arranged outside the vehicle.
Claims
1. A system configured to check an operating state of a component on a commercial vehicle, comprising: a detection device configured to detect information in the form of an image data set in a defined region on the vehicle, the defined region comprising the component to be checked; and an evaluation device to which the image data set is provided, the evaluation device configured to determine the operating state of the component on the basis of the detected image data set; wherein the detection device is arranged outside the vehicle; and wherein the component is at least partially modified by a color marking, and wherein the component is a fifth wheel.
2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the component comprises a locking device.
3. The system according to claim 1, wherein the component is modified by the color marking, with reflectors by polishing, with a sticker, a marking engraved into or painted onto the components and/or with at least one LED.
4. The system according to claim 3, wherein the sticker is provided in a specific color or with a specific code, and wherein the detection device and/or the evaluation device is configured to detect the type of sticker and/or the position of the sticker.
5. The system according to claim 4, wherein the sticker includes a QR code and/or a bar code.
6. The system according to claim 1, wherein the detection device is stationary.
7. The system according to claim 1, further comprising: a communication device configured to transmit information relating to the operating state to the vehicle.
8. The system according to claim 1, wherein the evaluation device is connected to a network.
9. The system according to claim 1, wherein the system is configured to detect changes to the bodywork or to light carriers by matching with a target profile of the vehicle, and wherein the target profile can be referred to via a network.
10. The system according to claim 1, wherein the evaluation device is configured to determine via machine the operating state and/or the defined area for the detection of the image data set.
11. The system according to claim 1, wherein the image data set comprises a temporal sequence of images.
12. The system according to claim 1, wherein the detection device is configured to automatically determine the detection of the image data set.
13. The system according to claim 1, wherein the detection device in configured to detect further information individually assigned to the vehicle, and wherein the further information can be stored in a storage device together with the detected operating state.
14. The system according to claim 1, wherein the evaluation device is configured to identify and classify components.
15. The system according to claim 1, wherein the system comprises a barrier in communication with the detection device and/or the evaluation device.
16. A method for determining an operating state of a component of a commercial vehicle having a system for checking an operating state of a component on the commercial vehicle, the component being at least partially modified by an indicator element or area, the modification of the component by an indicator element or area being provided with a color marking, comprising: detecting information in the form of an image data set via a detection device, the information being present in a defined area on the vehicle, the defined area comprising the component to be checked; providing the image data set to an evaluation device; and determining the operating state of the component via the detected image data set by the evaluation device; wherein the detection device is arranged outside the vehicle; and wherein the component is a fifth wheel.
17. The method according to claim 16, wherein the color marking includes reflectors and/or at least one LED.
18. The method according to claim 16, wherein the color marking includes a sticker, and/or a marking engraved into or painted onto the component.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0034] Further advantages and features result from the following description of preferred embodiments of the object according to the invention with reference to the attached figures. It shows:
[0035] FIG. 1 is a system for checking a component of a vehicle according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention;
[0036] FIG. 2 is a fifth wheel suitable for a method of checking a component according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0037] FIG. 3 is a rear view of a trailer suitable for a method for checking a component according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0038] FIGS. 4a and 4b are a rear view and a side view of a trailer suitable for a method for checking a component according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention;
[0039] FIG. 5a is a tire on an control surface suitable for a method of checking a component according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention by means of an optical detection device;
[0040] FIG. 5b is a tire on a control surface suitable for a procedure for checking a component according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention by means of distance sensors;
[0041] FIG. 6 is a system for checking a component of a vehicle according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention in side view (top) and bird's eye view (bottom); and
[0042] FIG. 7 s system for checking a component of a vehicle according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention in side view (top) and bird's eye view (bottom).
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
[0043] FIG. 1 shows a system 100 for checking an operating state of a component on a vehicle 5 according to a first preferred embodiment of the present invention. In the example shown, the vehicle 5 is an articulated vehicle with a tractor unit 6 and a semi-trailer 7. Such a vehicle 5 comprises several components which can be in different operating states. An example of such a component is a lift axle 9, which is, for example, part of a semi-trailer 7 and differs from the other axles 8 of the semi-trailer in that the lift axle 9 can be raised when the load is low in order to minimize its wear. This proves to be particularly advantageous when the load condition does not require all axles 8, i.e. in particular the lift axle 9, to contact the ground. A further component is, for example, a locking system with which a loading area of the semi-trailer 7 can be closed. With the system for checking an operating state, it is intended to check the operating state of the respective components on the vehicle 5 even when the vehicle 5 has already started travelling, i.e. not only during a preparation phase or during a stationary period. For example, it can still be determined that inadvertently assumed, in particular unwanted, operating states are maintained during a driving state of the vehicle 5. An essential component of such a system is a detection device 10, which preferably records information in the form of a data set in a defined area on the vehicle 5, the defined area in particular comprising the component. For example, the detection device 10 is at least one camera which detects one image or several images in the form of an image sequence from the vehicle 5, in particular from the component whose operating state is to be checked. For example, such a detection device 10 is mounted on an archway 4 through which a truck or vehicle 5 must pass when leaving a yard or defined area. In particular, the detection device 10 is arranged centrally in the roadway or towards the roadway. This makes it possible to avoid or minimize any distortions when recording the image data set. It is also conceivable to place the detection device 10 at the side of the roadway in order to also capture a side view of the vehicle 5. Furthermore, it is conceivable that, for example, the detection device 10 can be transferred between a detection state and a rest state. Preferably, further sensors are provided, such as motion sensors and/or light barriers, which detect the presence of a vehicle 5 in order to transfer the detection device 10 from a rest state to a detection state. It is also conceivable that a barrier is coupled to the detection device 10 so that the detection device 10 is in a detection state or a rest state depending on the state of the barrier, wherein the detection device 10 can advantageously be regularly transferred to a rest state in order to save energy. Preferably, the detection device 10 is arranged above 3 meters above the road surface. Accordingly, the detection device 10 can record image data sets of the vehicle 5 from above. In addition to the detection device 10, the system preferably comprises an evaluation device 20 to which the data set is provided. For example, the data set is provided via a wire connection or a wireless connection, for example via Bluetooth or WLAN. The data set detected by the evaluation device 20 is then evaluated. For this purpose, the evaluation device 20 is configured in such a way that it can determine the operating state of the component on the basis of the detected data set from the vehicle 5. In particular, the evaluation device 20 compares the determined operating state in the data set with stored or deposited information on the respective component. Accordingly, the evaluation device 20 is configured to identify the respective component and preferably to assign it to a corresponding type. After the identification step, it is determined whether the identified component is in an operating state that is usual for the driving state or for a stationary state of the vehicle. For this purpose, the evaluation device 20 preferably accesses a database and/or a network 50, on the basis of which the evaluation device 20 can determine the operating state. Particularly preferably, the evaluation device 20 uses a neural network, in particular a machine learning process, to identify the component and/or to identify its operating state. For this purpose, the evaluation device 20 is particularly preferably trained with corresponding data sets which it contains either from the detection device 10 and/or the network 50. By means of these training data sets, it is possible to optimize the wealth of experience of the evaluation device 20 to the effect that the operating state can be identified as error-free as possible. Preferably, the determined operating state is stored in a storage device 30, for example together with further information about the vehicle 5, which is particularly preferably individual. For example, the evaluated operating state is stored together with a number plate or a registration number on the vehicle. It is further preferred that the system comprises a communication device 40. This communication device 40 preferably automatically contacts the vehicle if, for example, an operating state has been identified on the vehicle 5 which is not intended for the driving state. For example, the communication device 40 transmits a corresponding error message to an on-board computer of a vehicle 5, in particular to a tractor unit 6 of the articulated vehicle. Accordingly, the driver is informed in good time and in particular in a timely manner about the presence of a possible fault condition. Furthermore, it is conceivable that the communication device 40 communicates with a corresponding barrier system or a corresponding barrier, so that the vehicle 5 is only allowed to continue its journey when clearance has been given by the communication device 40. Accordingly, the risk is minimized that a vehicle 5 continues or starts driving despite an operating state that is not intended for the driving state. In addition or alternatively, it is conceivable that an acoustic and/or optical warning message is emitted when an operating state that is not intended for driving is detected. For example, a corresponding device is provided for emitting the warning signal at the detection device 10 and/or at the archway 4 in order to inform the user or the driver of the vehicle 5 about the fault condition.
[0044] An example of an operating state not intended for the driving state would be, for example, an open locking device 22. However, it is also conceivable that the operating state checked is the state of the lift axle 9. Thus it is possible to determine by means of the detection device 10 and the evaluation device 20 whether the lift axle 9 is in the raised state, in which it is at a distance from the roadway, or in a lowered state, in which the lift axle 9 is in contact with the ground. It is further conceivable that, in addition to the detection device 10, a further sensor device is provided which, for example, detects the weight of the saddle train in order to determine, as a function of the weight, whether it is appropriate for the lift axle 9 to be in a raised state or a lowered state. Accordingly, this further information may be used to determine whether an operating condition impedes continued travel or is consistent with the intended operation of the vehicle. In addition to the lift axle 9 or the locking state of the vehicle 5, it is conceivable to use the detection device 10 to determine, for example, the tipping state of a tipping vehicle, i.e. a vehicle with a tipping loading surface. For example, it is possible to determine whether the loading surface of the vehicle 5 is tilted or runs essentially parallel to the roadway.
[0045] FIG. 2 shows a fifth wheel 11 suitable for a method of checking a component according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In the example shown, it is a fifth wheel 11 with a coupling plate 12, via which a connection is typically made between the tractor unit 6 and the semi-trailer 7. In order to fix a king pin of the semitrailer to the tractor unit, this king pin is inserted into a slot-like opening of the coupling plate 12 and fixed by means of a unlocking lever 13, in particular by means of an automatic lock with a unlocking lever. In addition to the unlocking lever 13, a safety lever 14 is also provided, which prevents the unlocking lever 13 from being moved inadvertently and the king pin from being released. By means of the detection device 10, it is possible to determine the respective orientation of the safety lever 14, in particular the safety lever 14 is tilted about an axis running substantially parallel to the roadway when it is transferred to a state in which the unlocking lever 13 can be actuated. By means of the detection direction 10 it is then advantageously possible, together with the evaluation device 20, to determine in which state the safety lever 14 is. If the safety lever 14 is in a lowered state, the unlocking lever 13 is unlocked. This state is not intended for driving, so that if the evaluation device 20 detects it, a message can be transmitted to the vehicle, for example.
[0046] FIG. 3 shows a rear view of the semi-trailer 7. Such a view can be used, for example, for the method for checking a component according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In the image shown, which is recorded for example by the detection device 10, a locking device 21 can be seen on the rear of a semi-trailer 7, with which doors which release or close the load compartment can be locked. In particular, it is intended that the right-hand locking device is closed, while the left-hand locking device is open. By means of the detection device 10, it is then advantageously possible, together with the evaluation device 20, to determine that the left-hand locking device is open.
[0047] FIG. 4a shows a rear view and FIG. 4b a side view of another semi-trailer 7 suitable for a method for checking a component according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present invention. The semi-trailer 7 shown here is a loading volume which is closed by means of a tarpaulin. On an underside, i.e. at an end of the tarpaulin facing the vehicle frame, corresponding loop-like and/or eyelet-like devices are provided here, with which the tarpaulin can be attached to the vehicle frame. By means of the detection device 10 and the evaluation device 20, it is advantageously possible to determine those locking devices, consisting of an eyelet and a loop, which are open or closed. This makes it advantageously possible to determine whether one of the said systems for closing or tying the tarpaulin to the vehicle body is open or not. For example, it is conceivable that the evaluation device 20 instructs the communication device 40 to transmit information to the driver of the vehicle 5 if a plurality or a defined number of loops and eyelets are not closed, so that the driver is only informed of the faulty state of the locking device when there is a certain safety risk. Accordingly, the driver is not informed if only a single locking device is not closed, provided that this unlocked locking device does not endanger the driving operation.
[0048] Furthermore, it is advantageously provided that the entire side and rear view of the vehicle is preferably recorded with the detection device. This makes it advantageously possible to determine the extent of a distortion in relation to reference points, for example an upper edge of the trailer. Accordingly, the corresponding distortion can be taken into account during image processing or evaluation by transforming the image data accordingly. In this way, for example, after the transformation, the detected area, which is assigned to a specific locking device, can be used to determine whether a locking state or an open state is present at the locking device.
[0049] FIG. 5a shows a tire 104 of a vehicle 5 is shown on a control surface 105, in which, for example, a detection device 10 is embedded, suitable for a method for checking a component according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In the example shown, the detection device 10 is at least one optical sensor which is embedded in the roadway 101. When driving over the control surface 105 under which the optical sensor is located, image data of the tire profile 106 can thus be recorded and, for example, compared with a target profile. For example, if a worn tire profile 106 is detected, a message can be sent to the driver or to a vehicle control centre to arrange for a tire change. Since such a measurement can be carried out in passing, this method represents an advantageous time- and personnel-saving alternative to a manual measurement.
[0050] FIG. 5b shows a tire 104 of a vehicle 5, in particular a trailer 7, on a control surface 105 suitable for a method for checking a component according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present invention. In this example, the detection device 10 comprises distance sensors, such as ultrasonic sensors, and/or at least one ultrasonic sensor, which can preferably determine the tread surfaces and the specific depth of the tire profile 106 fully automatically. In this way, for example, tread grooves can be determined and compared with reference values.
[0051] FIG. 6 shows a side view (top) and bird's eye view (bottom) of a system 100 for checking one or more components of a vehicle 5 with a length L, a height H and a width B according to a sixth embodiment of the present invention. In this example, the detection device 10 comprises several cameras which are mounted on the side or above the vehicle 5 and in front of and behind a sensor area 110 in the roadway 101 respectively. The sensor area 110 designates the area that can be detected by the detection device 10. The configuration shown here enables an all-round image of the vehicle 5 to be created and, for example, to be compared with a target profile of the vehicle 5, in particular of the trailer 7. In this way, for example, damage to a body of the vehicle 5, such as to sills or to light beams, can be registered. The detection device 10 in a cross member above the roadway 101, as is conceivable in particular for petrol stations and/or service stations, could, for example, detect snow and/or ice deposits on the upper side of the articulated lorry and emit a warning message, for example, in order to reduce the danger for the following traffic.
[0052] The detection device 10 can optionally comprise infrared optics. This enables a temperature to be detected, for example, on brakes, in particular on disc brakes, of the vehicle, for example by producing an infrared image of a brake, in particular a disc brake, whenever an axle of the vehicle 5 passes a trigger. If the temperatures of the individual brakes of a vehicle 5 deviate from each other and/or if a brake exceeds a defined temperature value, an alarm can be issued, for example, to request maintenance.
[0053] Optionally, such an all-round monitoring system can also be used to check loading and ventilation hatches as well as locking systems 21 on the entire vehicle. For example, image data sets recorded by the detection device 10 can be compared with a target profile and thus, for example, open hatches, doors or loose fastening straps and tensioning belts can be detected. Alternatively or additionally, damage to the insulation of a refrigerated box can also be detected by the detection device 10 comprising infrared cameras. Open hatches as well as damage to the insulation could be detected by deviations of the temperatures detected in an infrared image from the remaining flank of the vehicle 5.
[0054] FIG. 7 shows a system 100 for checking one or more components of a vehicle 5 according to a seventh embodiment of the present invention in a side view (top) and a bird's eye view (bottom). Compared to the sixth embodiment described above, a control surface 105 located on the roadway 101 is added here, which includes a detection device 10 for measuring a tire profile 106, as shown in FIGS. 5a and 5b, respectively. This detection device 10 may include, for example, an optical camera and/or distance sensors. Alternatively or additionally, the control surface 105 may also contain a scale that can determine the axle load of the vehicle 5, for example.
REFERENCE LIST
[0055] 4 archway [0056] 5 vehicle [0057] 6 tractor unit [0058] 7 semi-trailer [0059] 8 axle [0060] 9 lift axle [0061] 10 detection device [0062] 11 fifth wheel [0063] 12 coupling plate [0064] 13 unlocking lever [0065] 14 safety lever [0066] 17 primary point [0067] 18 secondary point [0068] 20 evaluation device [0069] 21 closed locking device [0070] 22 open locking device [0071] 30 storage device [0072] 40 communication device [0073] 50 network [0074] 100 system [0075] 101 roadway [0076] 104 tire [0077] 105 control surface [0078] 106 tire tread [0079] 110 sensor area [0080] B width of the vehicle [0081] H height of the vehicle [0082] L length of the vehicle
