Method and monitoring system for maintenance of a coupler device based on status

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for a coupler device (1) for a condition-based maintenance rail vehicle (2), comprising: a) providing coupler device data (KAD) in the form of operating data and optionally status data; b) providing environmental data (UD) for describing the environmental conditions in which the coupler device (1) is located; c) transmitting the provided data (KAD, UD) to a data processing system (5), and determining a target preset value (Xsoll) for a maintenance request of the coupler device (1) as a function of the provided coupler device data (KAD) and environmental data (UD); d) capturing an image (AB) of the coupler device (1) for optically reflecting its actual state, and transmitting it to the data processing system (5); e) evaluating the actual optical state of the coupler device (1) by the image (AB) taking into account the target preset value (Xsoll) for the maintenance request, which is composed of operating data and status data, especially coupler device vision (KAD) and environmental data (UD), at the evaluation time, and correcting (XK) the target preset value (Xsoll) for the maintenance request according to the evaluation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for maintaining the coupling device of rail vehicles, particularly railway vehicles, based on conditions, and also to a monitoring system. Background Technology

[0002] The concept of "rail vehicles" primarily refers to trains, carriages, and locomotives that run or are guided on one or more tracks. This particularly applies to fuel-powered or electric trains or trams.

[0003] The concept of a "coupler device" primarily refers to at least a portion of the coupling system of a rail vehicle, which enables a mechanical connection between two vehicles. The coupling device allows for the absorption and transmission of impact forces and tensile forces. Here, the coupling device is assembled or constructed on a railway vehicle, enabling the vehicle to shift and turn in curves or gradients to stably maintain its orientation and mechanical coupling. The coupling device here specifically includes a coupling head with coupling elements for coupling with the coupling head of a corresponding coupling. Furthermore, depending on the embodiment of the coupling rod, it also includes hinges, support devices, and, if necessary, energy-dissipating elements. Here, the concept of a coupling device specifically encompasses all elements from the interface with the car body to the interface with the corresponding coupling.

[0004] Coupler devices and their components are typically designed for specific applications to ensure stable and reliable mechanical coupling under diverse conditions, regardless of the type of railway vehicle and / or on straight or curved railway sections, whether level or sloping. Furthermore, this design is capable of transmitting predefined tension forces within a predefined operating time and compensating for predefined collision forces. To this end, this type of coupler device specifies that a buffer absorbs tension and collision forces not exceeding a specified magnitude and transmits excess forces to the vehicle underframe. Thus, for example, in multi-car railway vehicles, the traction and collision forces occurring between the cars during normal operation are absorbed in this typically reversibly constructed collision protection device. In this way, the transmission of tension and collision forces occurring during normal operation to the vehicle underframe is avoided. However, the buffer cannot substantially prevent the transmission of tension and collision forces to the components of the coupler device. Therefore, the components of the coupler device are subject to continuous wear to varying degrees during operation.

[0005] Coupler devices are subjected to a variety of conditions during the operation of various rail vehicles, which may have a significant impact on the theoretical design service life of the various components of the coupler device. As a result, when coupler devices that should be coupled to each other have difficulty self-aligning due to large distances or misalignment between couplers, the wear of the coupler devices during the coupling process is increased.

[0006] Furthermore, if the coupled rail vehicles approach each other too quickly, resulting in a collision of the coupling devices, it can cause severe wear and deformation of the couplings, leading to a shorter service life. In this context, for example, reference WO 2016 / 193063 A1 is cited, which describes an automatic coupling system between rail vehicles.

[0007] In addition, meteorological boundary conditions in the application, especially ambient temperature, air humidity, type, nature and speed or intensity of precipitation, may have a significant impact on the functionality of the coupler device and its components, as well as the material aging of each component, which in turn affects the entire component.

[0008] However, maximum reliability of the coupler assembly is crucial for the operation of rail vehicles. This means that all components of the coupler assembly are constructed and functioning correctly according to specifications. "Operating correctly according to specifications" within the scope of this invention means that the nature and characteristics of the individual components of the coupler assembly have not changed or are substantially unchanged compared to the initial design. However, due to the compact structure of commonly used coupler assemblies, the functionality of the individual components can usually only be checked during periodic inspections and maintenance programs, whereby each component is inspected accordingly and replaced as necessary. Currently, this type of inspection must be performed regularly to ensure that all components of the coupler assembly are operating correctly according to specifications. However, this is very complex and time-consuming because a comprehensive visual inspection of the components of the coupler assembly is usually not feasible.

[0009] Different methods can be considered when conducting inspections and maintenance. This is typically done at fixed time intervals. The intervals are predetermined based on the design of the coupler assembly, thus reliably preventing component failures due to wear under normal conditions before maintenance is scheduled. Pre-set durations are usually fixed, or maintenance requirements are determined based on the distance traveled according to the rail vehicle's operating time specifications.

[0010] Furthermore, information regarding the operating mode and status of the coupler device obtained from a monitoring system assigned to the coupler device can be used to support inspection and maintenance. For example, a monitoring system for monitoring is described in patent document DE 10 2013 206 977 A1. With this monitoring system, in addition to coupler device data describing normal operation, special events, such as heavy coupler impacts, can be detected, which may affect the service life of individual components and assembly groups.

[0011] Structural failure of coupler assemblies can lead to accidents, sometimes even catastrophic damage, especially in heavy-haul and high-speed trains. To detect structural failures in coupler assemblies in real time, a monitoring system is provided according to US 2018 / 0162423 A1, which can directly detect structural changes in the coupler itself, particularly those on the coupler rods. Document DE 10 2019 106 961 A1 describes components of a device for detecting the state and operating variables of the force transmission elements of couplers.

[0012] US 10,618,532 B2 specifies a condition monitoring system for traction couplers that identifies external and internal structural damage, including portions hidden beneath the car body, even during train operation. The condition monitoring system includes one or more sensors assembled on or integrated into the coupler assembly; a data detection unit for receiving signals or data from the sensors; and a processing unit for determining the structural condition of the traction coupler based on the received signals or data. Monitoring can be implemented continuously or periodically in real time during train operation. It can also be implemented offline, during which time the train is not running.

[0013] Furthermore, predictive maintenance methods in the field of rail vehicles are largely known, and their advantages are described in Jacob Schreiner and Elisa Mundt's article "Was ist Predictive Maintenance? Definition, Anwendung, Beispiele", January 31, 2020 https: / / www.industry-of-things.de / was-ist-predictive-maintenance-definition-anwendung-und-beispiele-a-693842 / ?print.

[0014] The maintenance process is based on an assessment of real-time determined operating and status numbers; however, this process presupposes a large number of corresponding detection devices and the establishment of multiple monitoring systems. The reliable integration and installation of the necessary detection devices also leads to additional modifications to various components, especially couplers, and ensuring the functionality of the detection devices and monitoring systems is complex and costly.

[0015] The method of identifying the state by visual inspection is known from document DE 10 2015 205 978 A1, which describes a system for recording the state of a motor vehicle by means of image and data detection together with time matching by assigning timestamps.

[0016] Chao Zheng and Zhenzhong Wei, in their paper "Automatic online vision-based inspection system of coupler yoke for freight trains," *Journal of Electronic Imaging*, 25(6), 061602 (2016), describe a method in which component (especially bolt) failures can be identified based on images of components (especially intermediate parts of AAR couplers) continuously generated on the vehicle during operation. However, purely image-based condition recognition methods rely on the continuous creation of such images to provide early warnings of potential functional impairments. This method is relatively labor-intensive, and the individual cameras used for image capture are susceptible to environmental influences, potentially transmitting incorrect information. Summary of the Invention

[0017] Therefore, the technical problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a method for maintaining a coupler device that achieves relatively more reliable judgment in terms of required maintenance / inspection with minimal additional structural costs to the coupler device itself, wherein unnecessary downtime should be avoided. It should be ensured that the various components of the coupler device—even after extended operating times—operate as required and are accordingly integrated into the overall coupler system of the vehicle, without requiring separate and periodic inspections of the various components of the coupler device within the scope of general inspections.

[0018] This technical problem is solved by the method for state-based maintenance as described in the independent requirements and the monitoring system according to the invention.

[0019] The method according to the invention is used for a coupler device for a condition-maintained rail vehicle, wherein the coupler device has at least one coupler head for coupling with a reverse coupler head of a corresponding coupler, and optionally, at least one line coupler for coupling with a line coupler of a corresponding coupler to transfer charge and / or data and / or liquid or gaseous media, the method comprising the following method steps:

[0020] a) Provide coupler device data in the form of operating data and optional status data;

[0021] b) Provide environmental data to describe the environmental conditions in which the coupler device is located;

[0022] c) The provided data is transmitted to the data processing system, and the target preset value for the maintenance request of the coupler device is determined as a function of the provided coupler device data and environmental data;

[0023] d) Capture images of the coupler device used for visual or optical reflection of the actual state and transmit them to the data processing system;

[0024] e) Taking into account the target preset value for the maintenance request, which is composed of operating data and status data, the actual optical state of the coupler device is evaluated by the image at the evaluation time, and a correction preset value for the target preset value for the maintenance request is constituted based on the evaluation.

[0025] Within the scope of this invention, "coupler device data" specifically refers to data applicable to at least indirectly describing the operating mode and / or environmental conditions of the coupler device and its various components. It includes operational data, environmental data, and optionally, but not necessarily, status data.

[0026] "Operating data" specifically describes the operation of the coupler device. This includes, in particular: the number of coupling processes within a specified time period; the coupling / non-coupling state; coupling speed; coupling collisions; operating time (time period, kilometers traveled); and GPS data.

[0027] "State data" refers in particular to data describing the physical or chemical properties of coupler devices and their components.

[0028] Within the scope of this invention, "environmental data" should be understood as data containing environmental information, particularly in the form of chemical or physical parameters that may affect the aging and wear of components of the coupler device. This includes, in particular, physical and chemical parameters such as temperature, air humidity, and the type, intensity, and characteristics of precipitation.

[0029] "Target preset values ​​for maintenance requests" specifically refer to information about or describing the next required maintenance and / or the next component replacement.

[0030] The advantage of the technical solution according to the present invention lies in that, on the one hand, it provides a purely data-based preset value for maintenance requests of the coupler device, which is verified by additional visual inspection and can be flexibly adjusted as necessary. Here, considering data characterizing the operating mode of the coupler device and environmental data containing information about environmental factors (which can affect service life), a very accurate target preset value can be obtained, which is closely related to the actual load experienced by the coupler device. Thus, unnecessary downtime can be avoided, either due to premature failure or malfunction of individual components, or due to unnecessary inspections and maintenance in terms of the current state. Therefore, the technical solution according to the present invention achieves optimized adjustment of maintenance intervals based on the actual condition of the coupler device.

[0031] The target preset value used for maintenance requests preferably includes a quantity that at least indirectly characterizes the maximum permissible remaining runtime of the theoretically feasible, preferred coupler device up to the next maintenance, said quantity as a function of detected coupler device data and environmental data. Remaining runtime here describes the period of time during which the coupler device can still "operate as scheduled".

[0032] Specifically, the theoretically feasible remaining runtime can be achieved through...

[0033] a) Time preset values, especially

[0034] a1) The duration in the form of the allowed remaining runtime until the next necessary maintenance or

[0035] a2) Date data or a limited time range

[0036] or

[0037] b) Length preset values, especially the mileage data up to the next necessary maintenance.

[0038] or

[0039] c) Combination of the two

[0040] To describe.

[0041] Option a) also includes downtime, however, during which the coupler device is not subjected to extreme weather conditions. In contrast, option b) includes a real operating time range during which the coupler device is subjected to load.

[0042] In particular, scheme c) allows for very precise pre-determination of the next necessary maintenance and achieves good planability in applications involving rail vehicles carrying coupler devices.

[0043] In a particularly advantageous improvement, the provided coupler device data, environmental data, and image-containing data are timestamped and stored together with the timestamped data. This allows for a clear view of how the data changes over time, and also enables consideration of the data's variation characteristics within a specified duration, thereby deriving conclusions about the remaining runtime.

[0044] There are various possibilities in providing coupler device data and environmental data. According to a particularly advantageous design of the method, coupler device data and environmental data are detected at least partially, preferably entirely, from the vehicle side, especially by means of data provision devices originally assigned to the vehicle for other tasks, during the operation of the rail vehicle carrying or having the coupler device. Preferably, data already detected or present in the vehicle's controller itself is used. The advantage of this design is the ability to access or use data present and necessary for vehicle control and / or regulation tasks. Additional detection and the corresponding detection devices on the coupler itself can be reduced or even completely avoided. Especially for the coupler device itself, the cost of additional devices required for detecting specific data can be minimized or completely avoided.

[0045] In summary, combining data that is already provided or detected on the vehicle side (at least data that indirectly or directly describes the operation of the coupler unit and / or environmental data) with additional visual inspections, especially when they are only performed temporarily or after specific requirements, provides a simple and particularly cost-effective option for optimizing maintenance intervals, since no inspection device is required on the coupler unit. Moreover, the information derived from these additional visual inspections is also very reliable.

[0046] In one alternative design, coupler device data and environmental data are provided for device detection during operation of the vehicle carrying the coupler device, utilizing at least partially, and preferably entirely, data associated with the coupler device. This allows detection to be performed independently of the vehicle.

[0047] In an advantageous improvement, for a single coupler device, at least the following coupler device data and environmental data are detected and provided to derive target preset values ​​for maintenance requests:

[0048] - The operating time of the vehicle carrying the coupling device, especially the vehicle's odometer readings.

[0049] - Number of completed coupling processes

[0050] - GPS coordinates of the coupler device or vehicle

[0051] - Coupling speed

[0052] - External temperature

[0053] - Coupler ID

[0054] Here, these minimum quantities are sufficient to derive meaningful target preset values ​​for maintenance requests. According to the particularly advantageous design method described above, these are provided entirely directly from the vehicle side, or at least indirectly compared to these quantities, i.e., as a function or proportional relationship of the aforementioned quantities. This means that no additional modifications or additional testing devices are required.

[0055] In a particularly advantageous improvement, in addition to the minimum data, extra operational and status data can be detected, which is used to more accurately target preset values ​​for maintenance requests. This includes force-displacement data and information on the acceleration and deceleration behavior of the rail vehicle over a predetermined time period. In a particularly preferred design, this can also be provided by the vehicle controller.

[0056] Several options can be considered regarding the timing sequence of the various method steps a) to e). According to a first advantageous option, optical images are captured only at the requested time or at a predetermined time interval, and then evaluated at the evaluation time. Here, according to method steps a) to c), coupler device data is provided and a target preset value for maintaining the request is determined at least at the requested time or within the predetermined time interval for image capture.

[0057] In this case, it is possible to simply take images manually upon request, thus eliminating the need for a corresponding fixed device on the coupler assembly.

[0058] In the second approach, coupler device data can also be continuously monitored and method steps a) to e) can be repeated cyclically or iteratively. By combining timestamps, images captured upon request can be matched to the coupler data present at that moment and the information obtained therefrom, and then evaluated. By periodically or continuously providing coupler device data and environmental data, and adjusting the resulting target preset values, short-term and extreme changes in the operating mode can be considered in a timely manner when determining the next maintenance time or time range.

[0059] According to the third embodiment, all the method steps according to the invention are repeated periodically or iteratively. However, in this case, in terms of equipment, a corresponding device for capturing images is provided on the coupler device. Here, in particular, a detection device, especially an image sensor, integrated on or within the coupler device may be involved.

[0060] In its simplest case, the assessment of the actual optical condition of the coupler device is achieved by comparing the actual condition with the rated condition. If it is determined that there is no deviation between the actual condition and the rated condition, the target preset value for the maintenance request in the coupler device data is maintained, and the target preset value is even extended based on the remaining available runtime in the target preset value.

[0061] If a deviation is identified, a change to the target preset value for the maintenance request is determined based on the type and extent of the deviation and its direct or indirect impact on functionality and the remaining runtime until the next maintenance of the coupler device and / or individual components, as determined by the target preset value, and this new target preset value is set.

[0062] In one advantageous improvement scheme, for evaluation purposes, deviations are categorized as a function of their direct or indirect impact on the functioning mode and / or remaining runtime of the coupler device.

[0063] Here, each category is equipped with at least one preset value for changing / correcting the target preset value of the maintenance request, wherein, within a category, the change / correction of the target preset value is determined by a function of the deviation that has the greatest impact on the function mode and / or remaining operating time of the coupler device.

[0064] Here, we can distinguish between the deviation of the actual state and the target state that has no impact on the function and state of the coupler device within the remaining runtime specified by the target preset value of the maintenance request, and the deviation that does impact the function and state of the coupler device within the remaining runtime specified by the target preset value of the maintenance request. The former will not lead to a correction of the target preset value. We can continue to analyze the latter in terms of the extent of damage to the function and the theoretical time of damage to the coupler device, wherein the target preset value of the maintenance request can be subsequently corrected accordingly by operating data and environmental data.

[0065] Specifically, damage to components that could lead to subsequent failure of parts / components and malfunctions and damage to the overall coupler assembly can be identified as early as possible and replaced or repaired in a timely manner by correcting maintenance presets.

[0066] Coupler device data and / or environmental data and / or images are preferably stored in a database, which can be a component providing the device, an edge device, or a cloud structure. Preferably, the target preset value for maintenance requests is determined decentralizedly via edge processing or cloud computing, and / or the actual optical state of the coupler device is evaluated by images at the time of assessment, taking into account the target preset value for maintenance requests comprised of operational and status data. Data transmission is wireless, with no limitations on the type and technology of transmission. It can be accomplished, depending on the storage arrangement, for example via WLAN, radio, Bluetooth, etc.

[0067] The target preset value and / or the correction preset value used for the target preset value are determined in the improvement scheme using at least one mathematical model. Here, the mathematical model can be established using artificial intelligence methods, such as machine learning or neural networks. Alternative methods include decision trees, linear or nonlinear regression, etc. This allows for highly accurate and repeatable preset values ​​for maintenance interval quality.

[0068] According to an improved scheme, the target preset value for maintenance requests or the value for correction of the target preset value generated in the data processing system can be read and displayed on any external device.

[0069] A monitoring system for a coupler device in a condition-based maintenance rail vehicle is described, wherein the coupler device has at least one coupler head for coupling to a reverse coupler head of a corresponding coupler, and optionally has a line coupler for coupling to the line coupler of a corresponding coupler to transfer charge and / or data and / or liquid or gaseous media. The monitoring system includes...

[0070] - At least one device for detecting and providing coupler device data and / or environmental data;

[0071] - A device for capturing images of coupler devices and / or components thereof;

[0072] - At least one data storage device for storing coupler device data, environmental data and images;

[0073] - A data processing system for analyzing and processing coupler device data, environmental data, and images, wherein the data processing system can be coupled to a providing device to transmit data.

[0074] In this invention, the data processing system can be understood as a centralized or decentralized architecture suitable for receiving, storing, analyzing, and processing data. The central device can be a machine, electronic circuitry, or a powerful computer. The processor can be, in particular, a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor, a microcontroller, such as an application-specific integrated circuit or digital signal processor possibly combined with a storage unit for storing program commands. The processor can also be understood as a virtualized processor, a virtual machine, or a software CPU. For example, it can also be a programmable processor equipped with configuration steps for performing the methods according to the invention, or configured to implement the methods, components, modules, or other aspects and / or parts of the invention according to the features described in the invention using a programmable processor. It can, for example, be integrated into a control device associated with a vehicle.

[0075] However, according to a particularly advantageous design approach, the data processing system is formed through a cloud architecture used for cloud computing.

[0076] In the context of this invention, "memory" or "memory module" can be understood as, for example, volatile memory in the form of random access memory (RAM), or permanent memory such as a hard disk or data carrier, or, for example, a replaceable memory module. It may be associated with a providing device. However, the storage module is preferably a cloud-based storage solution that is connected to various providing devices via a wireless connection (such as a mobile radio connection).

[0077] The data processing system is preferably constructed in a decentralized manner and is constructed in a particularly advantageous design as a cloud architecture for cloud computing, which allows access to various external resources.

[0078] Therefore, the monitoring system according to the present invention can be simply constructed and can be integrated into existing cloud infrastructures. Attached Figure Description

[0079] The invention will now be explained with reference to the accompanying drawings. The drawings show, in detail:

[0080] Figure 1 The structure and basic functions of the monitoring system according to the present invention are shown.

[0081] Figure 2 A flowchart of the method according to the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0082] Figure 1 The coupling device 1 of the rail vehicle 2 is shown in a schematic simplified diagram. It includes a coupling head 3 for coupling with a corresponding coupling head of a coupling device of another rail vehicle (not shown). Additionally, the coupling device 1 may optionally have at least one line coupler 10 for coupling with a corresponding coupler line to transfer charge and / or data and / or liquid or gaseous media.

[0083] The coupler device 1 is equipped with a monitoring system 4. The monitoring system 4 is preferably decentralized. Figure 1 A particularly advantageous configuration of the monitoring system 4 is shown. The monitoring system includes at least one data processing system 5 and at least one providing device 6 for providing and transmitting coupler device data KAD and / or environmental data UD of the coupler device 1, and at least one providing device 7 for providing and transmitting images of the coupler device 1 to the data processing system 5. Here, "data processing system" is not necessarily understood as a single device. The data processing system 5 can be centrally or modularly configured; however, in a particularly advantageous configuration... Figure 1 The design of the present invention shown is implemented using a cloud architecture for cloud computing.

[0084] The data processing system 5 includes at least one interface with a providing device 6 for providing and transmitting coupler device data KAD and / or environmental data UD for coupler device 1, and an interface with a providing device 7 for providing and transmitting images of coupler device 1.

[0085] The individual providing device 6 includes a detection device, particularly a sensing device. The detection device is configured to collect quantities / data in the form of Coupler Device Data (KAD) that at least indirectly characterize the operating mode and state of Coupler Device 1, and quantities / data in the form of Environmental Data (UD) that describe external environmental factors, through a settable time period. The Coupler Device Data (KAD) detects at least the following data: the operating time of the Coupler Device or the vehicle carrying the Coupler Device; the number of completed coupling processes; the GPS coordinates of the Coupler Device; and the coupling speed. The Environmental Data (UD) describes environmental factors. To characterize this, at least the external temperature is detected. Other quantities may also be considered, such as the type, characteristics, amount, and speed of precipitation; air humidity; UV radiation, etc.

[0086] These data can be detected by sensors installed or integrated on coupler device 1 and / or vehicle 2.

[0087] The providing device 7 includes a sensing device that is fixedly mounted or integrated on and in the coupler device 1, which takes the form of a sensor device for capturing images of the coupler device 1 and its various components; or a mobile optical image detection device, such as a camera or smartphone, which can capture images of the coupler device 1 only when the rail vehicle is stopped.

[0088] Integrated sensing devices allow for image capture in areas inaccessible from external image detection devices.

[0089] Preferably, each of the providing devices 6, 7 includes an interface for reading and transmitting data to the data processing system 5.

[0090] Each providing device 6, 7 may also have a memory for storing the detected data.

[0091] The function of the providing device 6, which provides and transmits the coupler device data KAD, can be undertaken by the device associated with the rail vehicle 2 according to a first design. According to a second design, shown here by means of dashed lines, this function is undertaken only by the device associated with the coupler device 1. According to a third design, some functions are undertaken by both providing devices 6 and 7.

[0092] The data processing system 5 includes at least one data storage device 8 and a data processing device 9 for analyzing, evaluating, and processing coupler device data KAD, environmental data UD, and images. The data is preferably stored, along with timestamps, in the storage of the providing devices 6 and 7 and / or the storage of the data processing system 5.

[0093] The transmission of data from the providing devices 6 and 7 is preferably wireless, for example via WLAN or mobile wireless, NFC or Bluetooth.

[0094] To process data, particularly to analyze, evaluate, and determine target preset values ​​for maintenance requests—that is, to predict the next inspection and maintenance—the data processing device 9 includes a processor 12 designed to process data from the data storage 8 and output the processing results to an interface. This type of interface, for example, forms a connection to an external device for recalling or correcting target preset values, such as a display device in the form of a dashboard 13. This can be achieved wirelessly via WLAN or mobile wireless, NFC, or Bluetooth.

[0095] In a particularly advantageous design approach, the data processing system 5 is implemented via a cloud architecture designed to enable cloud computing. This involves providing resources such as servers, storage, databases, network components, software, analytics, and intelligent functions via the Internet, i.e., the cloud 11.

[0096] Figure 2 A particularly advantageous embodiment of the method according to the invention is shown in the flowchart.

[0097] First, at the requested time t, an image ABist of the coupler device 1 is captured or generated. This image visually reflects the actual state at that moment. With the addition of or integrated sensing devices, the image AB can be captured at a specific time (the requested time), continuously during operation, or, in the simplest case, manually at minimal cost when the vehicle is stopped. Here, the entire coupler device 1, its mechanical components, and the details of the wiring coupler and its individual components are captured, including the surfaces of components such as seals; wiring connections; electrical contacts and joints; threaded connections, etc.

[0098] Preferably, each image ABist at different request times is always taken from the same angle, which significantly simplifies the comparison of changing characteristics within a predefined time range.

[0099] Therefore, it is preferable to set a timestamp for the data so as to achieve accurate time classification of the actual state, and to merge it with the coupler device data KAD or the target preset value Xsoll derived therefrom for maintenance.

[0100] In addition, at the requested time t, coupler device data KAD is provided in the form of operating data and optionally status data of coupler device 1, and environmental data UD is provided to describe the environmental conditions experienced by the coupler device. This data can also be continuously monitored and stored in memory 8 along with the associated timestamps.

[0101] As for the data KAD of the coupler device, it is preferable to detect at least the following quantities:

[0102] - The operating time of the vehicle carrying the coupling device, especially the vehicle's odometer readings.

[0103] - Number of completed coupling processes

[0104] - GPS coordinates of the coupler device or vehicle

[0105] - Coupling speed

[0106] - Coupler ID

[0107] As environmental data UD, at least the external temperature should be considered.

[0108] However, in a particularly advantageous improvement, an additional amount is also considered, which allows for the formation of a load spectrum within a predetermined time range, which is included in determining the target preset value for the maintenance request and enables a more precise target preset value. This includes detecting the vehicle's acceleration and deceleration characteristics, which are already provided by the driving controller and reflected in the stress conditions of the coupler assembly.

[0109] The target preset value Xsoll for the maintenance request is formed from the coupler device data KAD and environmental data UD at a certain moment, for example, the time range until the next inspection and maintenance. This time range is then combined with information obtained from the image ABist(t) at the request time t, analyzed, and corrected as necessary.

[0110] If the actual state ABist, formed and identifiable by image AB, is equivalent to the nominal state ABsoll, the maintenance request Xsoll can be maintained and, if necessary, even extended to the timeframe until the next necessary maintenance. Xsoll(t) is then set to the new target preset value Xsollneu.

[0111] If, considering the target preset value for maintenance requests formed by operating and status data, or coupler device data KAD and environmental data UD, an assessment of the actual optical condition of coupler device 1 is obtained from the image at the assessment time, and a deviation W is obtained based on this assessment, particularly deviations W1 to Wn from the rated condition ABsoll, then a correction XK of the target preset value Xsoll(t) for the maintenance request is implemented. This has different possibilities. Preferably, the assessment is performed using a model, especially a mathematical model. Then, for example, deviations W1 to Wn (where n = 1 to x) can be classified into deviations that have no impact on the functionality and safety of coupler device 1 up to the required maintenance date according to the target preset value Xsoll, and deviations that lead to earlier or even immediate inspection and maintenance. For example, this includes loose wiring and wire connections; leaks, etc.

[0112] Here, a correction preset value XKn is determined for coupler device 1 as a function of deviations W1 to Wn, respectively. This correction preset value is set as a correction value that describes the shortest remaining operating time before the next maintenance, or that affects the functionality of the coupler device to the point that it no longer meets safety-related requirements. The corrected target preset value is labeled XKmin. If the corrected target preset value is less than the target preset value caused by the coupler device data KAD, then the corrected target preset value XKmin is set as the new target preset value Xsollneu.

[0113] The target preset value Xsollneu can be either read manually or automatically passed to the decision instance used for planning and maintenance.

[0114] List of reference numerals

[0115] 1 Coupler device

[0116] 2. Tram

[0117] 3 Coupler Head

[0118] 4. Monitoring System

[0119] 5. Data Processing System

[0120] 6. Providing device

[0121] 7. Providing device

[0122] 8. Data Storage

[0123] 9. Data processing device

[0124] 10 Line Couplers

[0125] 11 Clouds

[0126] 12 processors

[0127] 13. Dashboard

Claims

1. A method for a coupler device (1) for a condition-based maintenance rail vehicle (2), wherein, The coupler device (1) has at least one coupler head for coupling with the reverse coupler head of a corresponding coupler, and the method includes the following method steps: a) Provide coupler device data (KAD) in the form of operating data of the coupler device; b) Environmental data (UD) that provides information describing the environmental conditions in which the coupler device is located; c) The provided data, namely coupler device data (KAD) and / or environmental data (UD), is transmitted to the data processing system (5), and the target preset value (Xsoll) for the maintenance request of the coupler device (1) is determined as a function of the provided coupler device data (KAD) and environmental data (UD); d) Take an image (AB) of the coupler device (1) used for optical reflection of the actual state and transmit it to the data processing system (5); e) At the time of evaluation, taking into account the target preset value (Xsoll) for the maintenance request, which is composed of coupler device data (KAD) and environmental data (UD), the actual optical state of the coupler device (1) is evaluated by image (AB), and the target preset value (Xsoll) for the maintenance request is corrected based on the evaluation.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The coupler device (1) has at least one line coupler (10) for coupling with the line coupler of the corresponding coupler in order to transfer charge and / or data and / or liquid or gaseous medium.

3. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Coupler device data (KAD) is provided in the form of status data of the coupler device.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, As a target preset value (Xsoll) for maintenance requests, the quantity that at least indirectly represents the allowable remaining runtime of the coupler device (1) until the next maintenance is determined by means of at least one mathematical model as a function of the detected coupler device data (KAD) and environmental data (UD) and / or the correction (XKn) of the target preset value (Xsoll) is determined by means of at least one mathematical model.

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, Data including coupler device data (KAD), environmental data (UD), and images (AB) are timestamped and stored together with the timestamps.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, Coupler device data (KAD) and environmental data (UD) are detected at least partially from the vehicle side during the operation of a vehicle (2) carrying or having a coupler device (1).

7. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, Coupler device data (KAD) and environmental data (UD) are detected entirely from the vehicle side during the operation of a vehicle (2) carrying or having a coupler device (1).

8. The method according to claim 6, characterized in that, Coupler device data (KAD) and environmental data (UD) are detected during the operation of a vehicle (2) carrying or having a coupler device (1) by means of a data providing device (6) associated with the vehicle.

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The coupler device data (KAD) and environmental data (UD) of the coupler device (1) and / or the components of the coupler device are detected, at least in part, by the data providing device (6) associated with the coupler device (1).

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, For each individual coupler device, at least the following coupler device data (KAD) and environmental data (UD) shall be measured: - Operating time of the vehicle (2) carrying the coupling device (1) - Number of completed coupling processes - Coupler device (1) or vehicle GPS coordinates - Coupling speed - External temperature - Coupler ID.

11. The method according to claim 10, characterized in that, Check the vehicle's odometer reading.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, As requested, take and evaluate optical images at the requested time or at predefined time intervals (AB).

13. The method according to claim 12, Its features are, Steps a) to c) of the method according to claim 1 are performed at least at the requested moment or within a predefined time interval of capturing images (AB).

14. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, At least the method steps a) to c) of claim 1 are repeated cyclically or iteratively to verify and / or adjust the target preset value (Xsoll) used to maintain the request.

15. The method according to claim 14, characterized in that, The method steps d) to e) according to claim 1 are repeated cyclically or iteratively.

16. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, When evaluating the actual optical condition of the coupler device, the actual condition (ABist) is compared with the rated condition (ABsoll). If it is determined that there is no deviation between the actual condition (ABist) and the rated condition (ABsoll), then the target preset value (Xsoll) for maintenance requests, based on coupler device data (KAD) and environmental data (UD), is maintained. When a deviation is identified, the target preset value for the maintenance request is changed based on the type and extent of the deviation and its direct or indirect impact on the functional mode and the remaining runtime of the coupler device and / or individual components, which can be described by the target preset value (Xsoll) until the next maintenance, and is set as the new target preset value (Xsollneu).

17. The method according to claim 16, characterized by the following features: - As a function of the direct or indirect impact of the deviation on the functioning mode and / or remaining runtime of the coupler device, the deviation is classified into different categories; - For each category, at least one target preset value (Xsoll) is preset for maintenance requests, wherein, within a category, the correction (Xkmin) of the target preset value is determined as a function of the deviation that has the greatest impact on the function mode and / or remaining running time of the coupler device (1).

18. The method according to claim 8, characterized in that, Coupler device data (KAD) and / or environmental data (UD) and / or images (AB) are stored in a database that is a component of the data providing device (6) or an edge device or cloud structure (11), and the target preset value (Xsoll) for maintenance requests is determined by edge processing or cloud computing and / or the actual optical state (ABist) of the coupler device (1) is evaluated by images considering the target preset value (Xsoll) for maintenance requests, which is composed of operating and status data, at the time of evaluation.

19. A monitoring system (4) for a coupler device for a condition-based maintenance rail vehicle, wherein, The coupler device (1) has at least one coupler head for coupling with the reverse coupler head of a corresponding coupler, and the monitoring system includes: - At least one first device for detecting and providing coupler device data (KAD) and / or environmental data (UD); - A second means for capturing / providing images of the coupler device and / or components of the coupler device; - At least one data storage device (8) for storing coupler device data (KAD), environmental data (UD) and images; - A data processing system (5) for analyzing and processing coupler device data (KAD), environmental data (UD) and images, wherein the data processing system (5) is coupled to the first device and the second device to transmit data.

20. The monitoring system (4) according to claim 19, characterized in that, The data processing system (5) is constructed as a cloud architecture for cloud computing.

21. The monitoring system (4) according to claim 19 or 20, characterized in that, The first device for detecting and providing coupler device data (KAD) and / or environmental data (UD) consists of a controller associated with the vehicle.

22. The monitoring system (4) according to claim 19, characterized in that, The coupler device (1) has a line coupler (10) for coupling with the line coupler of the corresponding coupler in order to transfer charge and / or data and / or liquid or gaseous medium.

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