Computer-implemented method, apparatus and computer program for mounting a wiper blade onto a wiper arm of a motor vehicle and method for mounting a wiper blade

Abstract

A computer-implemented method for mounting a wiper blade (8, 9) to a wiper arm (6, 7) of a motor vehicle (1) is described, wherein the wiper arm (6, 7) is moved into a service position (20, 21) to mount the wiper blade (8, 9). It is proposed that a marking (22) attached at least indirectly to the wiper blade (8, 9) and / or to packaging of the wiper blade (8, 9) is detected, and that the adjustment of the wiper arm (6, 7) to the service position (20, 21) is carried out depending on the detected marking (22). Furthermore, a device and a computer program for the computer-implemented method are described. Additionally, a method for mounting a wiper blade to a wiper arm is described.

Description

State of the art

[0001] The invention relates to a computer-implemented method, a device, and a computer program for mounting a wiper blade onto a wiper arm of a motor vehicle, wherein the wiper arm is moved into a service position for mounting the wiper blade. Specifically, the invention relates to the field of passenger cars and trucks.

[0002] A wiper system for motor vehicles is known from EP 0 268 131 A1. In the known wiper system, the wiper oscillates between two reversing positions during normal wiping operation, but after the operating switch is turned off, it is stopped in a recessed parking position outside the wiping area.

[0003] In a windshield wiper system where the wiper arm can be moved outside the wiped area in the parked position, it is conceivable that the wiper arm is moved from the parked position to a service position on the windshield to replace a wiper blade. This adjustment to the service position can be done manually via a steering column switch, which may require appropriate programming of the windshield wiper system's electronic control unit (ECU). The driver cannot modify this software. The windshield wiper system can only be operated when the ignition is switched on, specifically with regard to ignition power (terminal 15). Disclosure of the invention

[0004] The computer-implemented method according to the invention, comprising the features of the main claim, the device according to the invention, the computer program according to the invention, and the method according to the invention have the advantage of enabling improved functionality. Specifically, the mounting of a wiper blade to a wiper arm of a wiper system can be improved. In particular, the mounting of the wiper blade can be carried out simply and / or reliably.

[0005] The measures listed in the dependent claims result in further advantageous developments and improvements of the features specified in the main claim.

[0006] A service position can be a designated location on the windshield of a motor vehicle. The service position may be designed to allow for the most convenient installation of the wiper blade and, if applicable, the most convenient removal of a previous wiper blade. The service position is not necessarily fixed.

[0007] A motor vehicle on which the method is used can also have multiple wiper arms, in particular two wiper arms, on a windshield. The method can then also be used on multiple wiper arms simultaneously or sequentially. The wiper arms can be moved into their service positions simultaneously or sequentially. The method can also be used on wiper arms on different windows, in particular on a windshield and a rear window.

[0008] It is advantageous that the marking is detected at least when the vehicle's ignition is deactivated. This allows the wiper blade to be changed conveniently from the outside.

[0009] It is advantageous that the vehicle identification number (VIN) is detected by a sensor on the vehicle, in particular a sensor that detects the vehicle's surroundings, and / or by means of a mobile device, in particular a mobile phone. For example, an outward-facing camera or an external camera can be used. Specifically, a detection device for the VIN, in particular a camera, can be mounted in a mirror base. Detection can also be carried out via a mobile handheld device or an internet-connected mobile device, in particular a mobile phone or a tablet.

[0010] It is advantageous that the system verifies whether the recorded marking is a valid marking for the vehicle. This prevents incorrect installation of an unsuitable wiper blade. In particular, it ensures the vehicle's operational safety, as, for example, the installation of a wiper blade that is too short can be avoided.

[0011] It is advantageous that the user is notified of the result of the check, especially when using a mobile device. This allows the user to be informed in advance whether a wiper blade or the relevant wiper arm is suitable for their vehicle. The user can then check this, if necessary, when ordering or before purchasing a wiper blade, for example, if the check is performed using a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet.

[0012] It is advantageous that the wiper arm is moved to the service position if the verification results show that the detected marking is a valid marking for the vehicle. This allows, for example, the installation of a valid wiper blade to be made particularly easy by detecting the marking on the vehicle, which can be done by a vehicle-mounted device or a mobile device.

[0013] A key advantage is that, depending on the detected identification code, the user is shown at least one installation instruction for the wiper blade. This further simplifies the installation process for the user. The installation instructions can be displayed on a mobile device and / or on a screen in the vehicle.

[0014] It is advantageous that the identification number is stored in a QR code and / or RFID and / or a blockchain, particularly a VeChain. This allows for reliable identification of the number. The blockchain can also enable tracking of a wiper blade. Data can also be transmitted to a manufacturer for this purpose, for example, to facilitate quality monitoring and / or quality improvement.

[0015] It is advantageous that a identifier, particularly one stored in a blockchain, of a previous wiper blade is recorded when the new wiper blade is mounted on the wiper arm in place of the previous one. This allows for the tracking of a wiper blade throughout its lifespan.

[0016] It is advantageous that wiper blade wear is detected and / or that a wiper blade reorder is triggered automatically and / or manually by a user, preferably when the detected wiper blade wear reaches a predefined wear limit. This further improves the safety of vehicle operation.

[0017] Depending on the design, one or more of the following features and advantages may be realized.

[0018] The ability to operate the wiper system even when the ignition is off opens up new possibilities regarding its functionality and application. Networking the vehicle's existing sensors and the corresponding logic and control of the wiper motor primarily results in new functionalities that could potentially be offered on the market as a separate software package or software functionality. This new functionality can serve as an additional service for the vehicle user. For example, it may be possible to control the wiper system's service position(s) via an external signal, thus enabling operation independent of the steering column switch.

[0019] A particular advantage is that a wiper motor is integrated into a communication-enabled environment that can process data from other sensor units in the vehicle, receive external signals, and then initiate activities, especially the output of signals. This is possible, for example, if the wiper drive is VSS-compatible and can be controlled by the Zone ECU or an app in a vehicle computer. A VSS interface is used for vehicle-specific signals (VSS) and is an example of a standardized software / signal interface.

[0020] Possible implementations of an advantageous functionality can, for example, realize at least one of the following use cases: A service app (computer program) may be available for changing wiper blades and may be offered for download. The vehicle user has the option of obtaining an app (computer program) for their mobile device, especially a smartphone, which can assist with changing the wiper blade. The app can first identify the correct wiper blade for the vehicle.

[0021] A newly purchased wiper blade, being a replacement part, may have a marking, for example in the form of a QR code on the packaging. This QR code can be scanned with a smartphone app. Ideally, this app will also be connected to the vehicle.

[0022] Scanning the QR code confirms that the correct wiper blade is available for installation. Furthermore, the corresponding service position of the wiper system can be activated using the app.

[0023] Activation occurs, for example, at the level of the vehicle's computer, which in turn sends a signal via the architecture level to the wiper drive's ECU. This gives the user the advantage of avoiding the installation of an incompatible wiper blade. Additionally, they do not need to activate the vehicle's ignition system to change the wiper blade.

[0024] In addition to or as an alternative to such app functions, scanning the QR code can also display and / or access at least a further reference (link) to instructions on publicly accessible platforms, such as a social network, a video portal, a manufacturer's website or another internet portal.

[0025] An app can also be installed in the vehicle's computer or, for example, installed at the user's request. The app can be used, in particular, for changing wiper blades.

[0026] The functions can also be designed to operate independently, either additionally or alternatively, without external communication from the vehicle. For example, the content and / or functionalities of an app intended for a mobile device, particularly a mobile phone, and especially a smartphone, can also be installed on the vehicle's computer as an app for the vehicle's computer. An app can also run in a cloud connected to the vehicle. Furthermore, distributed systems are possible. These configurations can potentially reduce the need for external communication in the respective application.

[0027] In an advantageous design, for example, a QR code on the packaging of the wiper blade can be read by a camera already located in the vehicle, e.g. an exterior camera, behind the windshield or in the interior.

[0028] The functionality, such as a compatibility check of the new wiper blade and / or control of the service position, can then be selected and activated using the vehicle's on-board computer.

[0029] A new functionality can be implemented by combining a QR code on the wiper blade packaging with vehicle connectivity. This enables at least one additional service function. Such a service function could, for example, trigger the automated or manual reordering of a wiper blade.

[0030] Additionally or alternatively, a subscription model can be offered, allowing for the regular reordering of wiper blades. For example, a wiper blade can be ordered after a certain operating time, particularly a certain number of operating hours, and / or a certain distance driven, particularly kilometers driven, and / or a certain period of time, particularly days, after the vehicle was put into operation or the last wiper blade change. This further improves the safety of vehicle operation.

[0031] Thus, in a preferred design, an architecture for connecting to a wiper motor, a zone control unit (zone ECU) and a vehicle computer, as well as possibly a higher-level cloud, can be provided. Brief description of the drawings

[0032] Preferred embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail in the following description with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which corresponding elements are provided with matching reference numerals. The drawings show: Fig. 1 a motor vehicle in an extractable, schematic, spatial representation, wherein wiper arms are adjusted to their respective service position in which wiper blades can be mounted; Fig. 2 a device for carrying out a computer-implemented method according to an exemplary embodiment and Fig. Three different wiper blades in their packaging, as well as a user's mobile device, with the selection of one suitable for the [unclear text] Fig. 1 permissible wiper blade is illustrated using the computer-implemented method. Embodiments of the invention

[0033] Fig. Figure 1 shows a motor vehicle 1 in a partial, schematic, three-dimensional representation. The motor vehicle 1 has a pane 2, which is designed as a windshield 2. Furthermore, the motor vehicle 1 has a pane 3, which is designed as a rear window 3. The vehicle has wipers 4, 5, which in this embodiment are provided on the pane 2 designed as a windshield 2. In a modified embodiment, for example, only one wiper 4 may be provided on the pane 2. Furthermore, in a modified embodiment, at least one wiper may be provided on the pane 3 designed as a rear window 3. The motor vehicle 1 may be designed, in particular, as a passenger car or a truck.

[0034] The wipers 4, 5 have wiper arms 6, 7 and wiper blades 8, 9 detachably attached to the wiper arms 6, 7. The wiper blades 8, 9 are connected to the wiper arms 6, 7 via a suitable mechanism, which is preferably designed so that a user of the motor vehicle 1 can change the wipers themselves, thus not necessarily requiring workshop or service work in a specialist workshop. However, the installation of the wiper blades 6, 7 can also be carried out by a workshop or service center, for example as part of a vehicle service.

[0035] The motor vehicle 1 also has mirrors 10, 11 which are connected to a body 14 of the motor vehicle 1 via mirror feet 12, 13.

[0036] Preferred embodiments are described below, also with reference to Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 further described.

[0037] Fig. Figure 2 shows a device 15 for carrying out a computer-implemented method according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig. Figure 3 shows various wiper blades 16 in their packaging 17. For example, one package 18 contains the wiper blades 8, 9 that are suitable or approved for the motor vehicle.

[0038] A computer-implemented method, according to an exemplary embodiment, serves to mount the wiper blades 8, 9 onto the wiper arms 6, 7 of the motor vehicle 1. In this method, the wiper arms 6, 7 are moved to their respective service positions 20, 21 to mount the wiper blades 8, 9. The service positions 20, 21 can be moved simultaneously or sequentially.

[0039] To trigger the adjustment of the wiper arms 6, 7 to the service positions 20, 21, a marking 22 attached to the packaging 18 of the wiper blade 8, 9 is detected. In this embodiment, the marking 22 is stored (encoded) in a QR code 23. In modified embodiments, the marking 22 can additionally or alternatively also be stored in an RFID and / or a blockchain, in particular a VeChain.

[0040] The marking 22 can be detected, for example, via sensors 25, 26 of the motor vehicle 1 and / or via a mobile device 27 of a user.

[0041] At the in Fig. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the identification mark 22 is captured via a mobile device 27 belonging to the user, designed as a smartphone 27. The correct packaging 18 with the appropriate wiper blades 8, 9 for the user's vehicle 1 can already be selected from the packaging 17.

[0042] When the user is at the motor vehicle 1 with the wiper blades 8, 9 contained in the packaging 18, he can detect the marking 22 from the sensor 25 or the sensor 26 of the motor vehicle 1, which detect the area around the motor vehicle 1, or by means of his mobile device 27. The marking 22 can preferably also be detected when the ignition of the motor vehicle 1 is deactivated. For example, one or more sensors 25 can be provided on the mirror bases 12, 13. The sensor 26 can, for example, be provided behind the windshield 2.

[0043] Then, preferably, it is checked that the detected marking 22 is a marking 22 permissible for the motor vehicle 1. The result of the check can be displayed to the user on their mobile device 27.

[0044] When a valid marking 22 is detected, the wiper arms 6, 7 are moved to their respective service positions 20, 21. The service positions are preferably chosen to allow the user to change the wiper blades 8, 9 as conveniently as possible. If necessary, assembly instructions for the wiper blades 8, 9 can also be displayed to the user on their mobile device 27.

[0045] When the wiper blades 8, 9 are replaced, a identifier 22 of the previous wiper blades 8, 9, stored in a blockchain, can be recorded. Since the blockchain, in particular a VeChain, encodes an identifier 22 uniquely assigned to each individual wiper blade 8, 9, product-specific tracking can thus be enabled over the lifespan of the wiper blades.

[0046] The system can also detect wear on wiper blades 8 and 9, and then automatically and / or manually reorder wiper blades 8 and 9. For example, new wiper blades 8 and 9 can be ordered regularly at certain intervals.

[0047] Fig. Figure 2 shows a possible embodiment of the device 15, which at least partially executes the computer-implemented method. Only one drive (wiper drive) 30 for the wipers 4, 5 is shown. The wipers 4, 5 can be driven jointly by the drive 30.

[0048] A vehicle computer 31 can be connected to a zone ECU 32 via IP-based Ethernet. A steering lever switch 33 can send signals to the vehicle computer 31 and / or the zone ECU 32. The zone ECU 32 can control the drive 30 via a UN / CAN signal. A drive ECU 34 is provided on the drive 30.

[0049] A signal can be sent to the zone ECU 32 via CAN from at least one other ECU unit or terminal device 35.

[0050] A computer program, in particular an app (application), capable of executing the computer-implemented procedure, can be installed on the vehicle computer 31. A VSS interface 40 can be used between the vehicle computer 31 and the zone ECU 32. The drive ECU 34 can be controlled via a wiper drive UN driver 41 using the UN / CAN signal-based connection. Application-specific steps can then be executed on the drive ECU 34, enabling the actuation of the drive 30 via standardized functions or software.

[0051] Accordingly, the zone ECU can be controlled via a CAN signal from the additional ECU unit or terminal 35. The additional ECU unit or terminal 35 can enable a connection to the sensors 25, 26 of the vehicle 1 and / or a connection to the user's mobile device 27 and / or to an internet-accessible cloud and / or other internet services.

[0052] The vehicle's bus system 1 can be based on, for example, CAN, CAN FD, FlexRay, Ethernet, or LIN. In particular, different connection types or protocols can be used for different connections.

[0053] The invention is not limited to the described embodiments. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 0 268 131 A1

[0002]

Claims

[1] Computer-implemented method for mounting a wiper blade (8, 9) to a wiper arm (6, 7) of a motor vehicle (1), wherein for mounting the wiper blade (8, 9) the wiper arm (6, 7) is adjusted to a service position (20, 21), characterized by that a marking (22) attached at least indirectly to the wiper blade (8, 9) and / or to a packaging of the wiper blade (8, 9) is detected and that the adjustment of the wiper arm (6, 7) into the service position (20, 21) takes place depending on the detected marking (22). [2] Computer-implemented method according to claim 1, characterized by that the marking (22) is detected at least when the ignition of the motor vehicle (1) is deactivated. [3] Computer-implemented method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized bythat the marking (22) is detected by a sensor (25, 26) of the motor vehicle (1), in particular a sensor (25, 26) detecting the surroundings of the motor vehicle (1), and / or by means of a mobile device (27), in particular a mobile phone. [4] Computer-implemented method according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by that it is checked whether the detected marking (22) is a marking (22) permitted for the motor vehicle (1), and a) that a result of the check is signalled to a user, in particular displayed on a mobile device (27), and / or b) that the wiper arm (6, 7) is adjusted to the service position (20, 21) if the result of the check is that the detected marking (22) is a marking (22) permitted for the motor vehicle (1). [5] Computer-implemented method according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized bythat at least one assembly instruction for the wiper blade (8, 9) is displayed to a user depending on the detected marking (22). [6] Computer-implemented method according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by that the marking (22) is stored in a QR code (23) and / or an RFID and / or a blockchain, in particular a VeChain. [7] Computer-implemented method according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by that an identification (22), in particular an identification stored in a blockchain, of a previous wiper blade (8, 9) is detected when the wiper blade (8, 9) is mounted on the wiper arm (6, 7) instead of the previous wiper blade (8, 9). [8] Computer-implemented method according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized bythat wear of the wiper blade (8, 9) is detected and / or that a reordering of the wiper blade (8, 9) is carried out automatically and / or manually by a user, which reordering preferably takes place when the detected wear of the wiper blade (8, 9) reaches a predetermined wear limit. [9] Apparatus arranged to carry out all the steps of a method according to any one of claims 1 to 8. [10] Computer program, in particular installable application, comprising instructions that execute a computer-implemented method according to one of claims 1 to 8. [11] Method for mounting a wiper blade to a wiper arm of a motor vehicle, wherein a person mounts a wiper blade to the wiper arm, characterized byin that, in order to mount the wiper blade (8, 9) on the wiper arm (6, 7), the wiper arm (6, 7) is adjusted into a service position (20, 21) by means of a computer-implemented method according to one of claims 1 to 8.

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