Method for determining an inaccessed separation process

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for determining an unpermitted separation process of a connection point (10) which is produced in a form-fitting, material-fitting or force-transmitting manner and which connects at least two components (12, 14) to one another, the following method steps being carried out: e) macroscopically recording at least one image (16) of the connection point (10) of the at least two components (12, 14); f) generating a code (50) of the at least one image (16) and storing the at least one image (16) on a storage medium (20, 22); g) re-macroscopically recording the at least one comparison image (24) of the connection point (10) for comparison purposes, and h) comparing the characteristic surface properties (18) of the macroscopically recorded at least one image (16) of the connection point (10) according to method step a) with the macroscopically recorded at least one comparison image (24) of the connection point (10).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a method for determining a disallowable separation process at a connection point that is shaped, materially fitted, or force-transmittingly generated, connecting at least two components to each other. Furthermore, this invention relates to the use of this method in vehicle control equipment (MEP, VEP, ADAS) with high-performance processor systems or in power module and / or server applications. Additionally, this invention relates to the use of this method in autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles, particularly in the vehicle's steering / braking system or steering / braking applications. Background Technology

[0002] DE 10 2011 109 077 A1 addresses the generation and verification of product markings. To generate and mark a product using a product marking, where the product marking can be verified solely with the product without needing to connect to a database, at least one permanent, statistically distributed physical and / or chemical change in the product is detected by a detection device. A product marking is generated from the detected change by a processing device and applied to the product by a marking device. To verify the product marking, the identified change is detected by another detector, generating a new product marking. If the new product marking matches the marking applied to the product, the product is considered authentic.

[0003] DE 10 2021 109 455 A1 addresses a method for unique identification and recognition of products. In the proposed method, to mark a product, a region is defined on at least one surface of the product. The defined region is irradiated with photons, and all manufacturing deviations are extracted from the defined region within a spectral range up to 3000 nm, preferably up to 1800 nm, particularly preferably up to 1400 nm, and most preferably up to 1100 nm. All manufacturing deviations extracted from the defined region are stored. To identify the marked product, the defined region is irradiated with photons, and all manufacturing deviations are extracted from the defined region within a spectral range up to 3000 nm, preferably up to 1800 nm, more preferably up to 1400 nm, and most preferably up to 1100 nm. Finally, the extracted manufacturing deviations are compared with the stored manufacturing deviations.

[0004] Currently, separation or attempts to separate can only be partially detected, achieved through special screw head geometries (such as Torx screws with internal tenons), physical change detection (PCD—anti-loosening adhesive on the screw head and mating parts), or screws that can only be screwed in one direction and will break when unscrewed. This method can detect the mechanical action on the connected components. Even though the separation process, the tools required for it, and the materials themselves are difficult to obtain, the possibility of eventually obtaining all these elements, though small, still exists. Therefore, methods with fewer process steps are ideal. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to the present invention, a method is provided for determining unacceptable separation processes at connection points, wherein the connection points are generated by shape fitting, material fitting, or force transmission to connect at least two components to each other, and the following method steps are performed:

[0006] a) Take at least one macroscopic image of the connection point of at least two components;

[0007] b) Generate the encoding of at least one image and store the at least one image on a storage medium and / or in the cloud;

[0008] c) For comparative purposes, take at least one new macroscopic image of the connecting area; and

[0009] d) Compare the characteristic surface features of at least one macroscopically captured image of the connecting part according to method step a) with the macroscopically captured image of at least one comparative image of the connecting part.

[0010] By using the solution proposed according to the present invention, macroscopic photography of the original appearance of the connection structure features can be recorded without alteration at the end of the production of the component, assembly or control equipment.

[0011] In an advantageous improvement to the method proposed according to the invention, at least one image of the connection point is taken macroscopically at the end of the production of the component, assembly, or part.

[0012] In the method proposed according to the present invention, the achievable security level is variable, wherein, in particular:

[0013] a) The size of the shooting area can be changed;

[0014] b) Change the number of shooting areas; and

[0015] c) Change the shooting area itself.

[0016] In an advantageous improvement to the method proposed according to the invention, the encoding generated according to step b) is decoded on a storage medium and / or in the cloud. Thus, decoding can be performed very securely behind a "firewall" of the cloud or storage medium.

[0017] In an advantageous improvement to the method proposed according to the invention, information existing in the cloud is added according to method step d), in particular codes generated from captured images and information obtained through secure queries.

[0018] Advantageously, using the method proposed according to the invention, the condition of connection points related to safety and / or quality assurance at the time of product delivery can be recorded. This advantageously allows for recording the condition of the product to be delivered, meaning that any unauthorized separation or tampering processes occurring at the connection points can be readily identified.

[0019] In an advantageous improvement to the method proposed according to the invention, at least one image or the code generated according to step b) of the method is stored on a storage medium and / or in the cloud. In particular, storing the code generated from at least one image requires very little storage space. In an advantageous improvement to the method proposed according to the invention, PCD (Physical Change Detection) and / or “fingerprint” are combined. In this context, the term “fingerprint” refers to a macroscopic image that uniquely and clearly identifies the connection of a part or part workpiece.

[0020] In the method proposed according to the present invention, functional matching is performed within the comparison range according to method step d), particularly the orientation of the Torx screw relative to the edge of the component. Similarly, in the case of shape matching comparison, a difference may arise between the delivered state of the discussed connection and the actual state to be recorded later.

[0021] The method proposed according to the present invention also specifies that the mobile phone photography is evaluated by determining suitable segments from image fragments. This significantly expands the recording range.

[0022] In an advantageous improvement to the method proposed according to the invention, the arrangement of semiconductor components on the upper side of the printed circuit board can be recorded, regardless of whether there are material mating connection points, especially solder joints. Furthermore, molten solder joints, brazed solder joints, etc., can also be recorded as connection points.

[0023] Furthermore, the present invention relates to the use of methods in vehicle control devices MIP, IP, ADAS (Advanced Driver's Assistance) with high-performance processor systems, or in power module and / or server applications. Moreover, the methods proposed according to the present invention can be used in autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles, particularly for highly safety-related steering / braking systems or steering and braking applications in autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles.

[0024] Advantages of the invention

[0025] The solution proposed according to the present invention can replace currently used methods, such as applying sealing wax, using screws that can only rotate in one direction, or employing special screw head geometries. With the solution proposed according to the present invention, at the end of production of a component / assembly or control device, macroscopic photographs are taken of the connection structural features (e.g., in the form of screws and clamped metal plates). Thus, the connection is recorded tamper-proofly, thereby easily clarifying subsequent warranty claims. The connection is recorded tamper-proofly after completion, specifically through macroscopic photographs of, for example, the screws and metal plates and the corresponding surface structures present in that state. These characteristic surface structures inherently possess natural uniqueness, giving each connection its unique "fingerprint."

[0026] According to the method proposed in this invention, a code is generated from macroscopic images and stored in the cloud. The code is also unique due to its uniqueness and its association with at least one macroscopic image, allowing for the explicit identification of the captured connection points related to safety or warranty. If it is now necessary to check whether the equipment or connection point is in its original state, such as whether it is intact, a photograph of the same image segment is taken and can be compared with the original photograph taken at the end of the production process. This allows for a very rapid determination of whether the connection point is intact or has been tampered with.

[0027] If the connection is subsequently severed, it is statistically impossible to restore it to its original state. Visually, it is also impossible to determine whether the connection is the one that was recorded, or another connection point on the control device related to safety or warranty.

[0028] Advantageously, macroscopic image capture and comparative imaging or encoding comparisons can be used for annual recurring revenue to record compliant usage. The comparison proposed according to the invention can ultimately determine whether a connection is in its original state after production or product delivery, or whether it is a tampered connection.

[0029] In advantageous improvements, the method proposed according to the invention can be further refined, for example, by equipping the global service center network with a corresponding camera system capable of providing such high-resolution macroscopic imaging under suitable lighting conditions. If the resolution of such imaging is insufficient, corresponding photographs and related product authenticity certification services can be provided at the service centers.

[0030] Compared to previously known methods of proof, the solution proposed according to the present invention has the following advantages: it completely eliminates the need for surface cleanliness requirements on the connecting elements, such as those required in the case of PCD. For example, the application of sealing wax can be completely eliminated, as can the curing of the wax and the associated preparation time.

[0031] Mechanical copying is impossible using the solution proposed according to the present invention. Furthermore, decoding is performed in a storage cloud or storage system protected from third-party access. All information present there can also be added to a security query afterward. In this regard, it is conceivable to store not only the code but also the captured images. Therefore, in the case of inspection, it is also possible to consider using photographs and additional features of the surface shown herein for inspection.

[0032] The code is very secure, already scalable, and can be designed to be highly resistant to unauthorized modification through its continuous adaptability and constant variability.

[0033] Using the method proposed according to the invention, in addition to inspecting threaded connections, fusion welds, brazed welds, and other material fit connections can also be inspected. The method proposed according to the invention is particularly suitable for recording safety-related connections at the time of product delivery. These connections can no longer be altered, disengaged, tightened, or otherwise modified.

[0034] At least one macroscopic image can be stored in the cloud, along with / or the generated code (approximately 1kB per image). PCD (Physical Change Detection) and fingerprinting can be combined. PCD can identify objects without additional equipment; fingerprints can be stored as an additional security measure on storage media (SPS) or in the cloud.

[0035] Mobile phone image capture allows for larger image fragments. These fragments can also be transferred to storage media and evaluated there, making it possible to locate relevant segments.

[0036] Within the scope of the method proposed according to the invention, shape matching can be detected. Furthermore, this service can be provided as an external service to guarantee original condition, proof of originality, and protection against tampering. Moreover, within the range of application possibilities of the method proposed according to the invention, semiconductor elements (chips) on printed circuit boards (PCBs) with or without solder joints can also be recorded, thus providing a very wide range of applications. It should also be noted that the method proposed according to the invention can be implemented in vehicle central control equipment (MIP, VIP, ADAS applications), all of which have high-performance processor systems. This also includes power module or server applications. Due to its high safety relevance, for autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles, the steering or braking systems can be inspected using the method proposed according to the invention, making it easier to clarify potential warranty claims.

[0037] The method for determining the impermissible separation process of connection points according to the present invention can be designed to be absolutely tamper-proof and traceable globally. The location of the corresponding hardware is irrelevant; its authenticity or original condition can be immediately checked by sending images. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings and the following description. Wherein:

[0039] Figure 1 and Figure 2 The image shown is a photomicrograph of the connection point in its original state after connection is completed.

[0040] Figure 3 It shows the process of separation according to Figure 2 The marks at the connection points are visible when exposed to ultraviolet light.

[0041] Figure 4 A top view of the connection part in the form of a Torx screw is shown.

[0042] Figure 4.1 It shows that according to Figure 4 Side view of a Torx screw.

[0043] Figure 5 It shows that according to Figure 4 An enlarged view of the screw head, with the relevant first and second segments marked.

[0044] Figure 6 An exemplary workflow for macroscopic image processing is shown.

[0045] Figure 7 Illustrations showing surface selection or resulting surface features, and

[0046] Figure 8The storage of microscopic images in the programmable logic control unit or MES is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0047] In the following description of embodiments of the invention, the same or similar elements are denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions of these elements are omitted in certain cases. The drawings are for illustrative purposes only, showing the subject matter of the invention.

[0048] from Figure 1 As can be seen, a connection part 10 related to safety or warranty can be used to, for example, connect... Figure 4.1 The first component 12 and the second component 14, schematically shown in the diagram, are interconnected. From the... Figure 2 As can be seen in the illustration, for example, a macroscopic image, as shown in image 16, was taken after the connection was completed. At the connection point 10... Figure 2 Image 16 shows, for example, a cap nut 26, especially in its initial or original state after a connection related to safety or warranty has been established.

[0049] In comparison, Figure 3 The image shown is a comparison image 24, which shows the image compared to the one shown according to... Figure 2 The two macroscopic images show the same connection 10 in its original state. After irradiation, such as after UV irradiation 32, damage to the cap nut 26 becomes clearly visible, indicating that the state 30 has been altered. Figure 2 The connection part 10 shown in the original state 28 is connected to Figure 3 A comparison between the connection portions 10 shown in the altered state 30 yields the following conclusions: Based on... Figure 2 The original state 28 recorded during the macroscopic shooting may have involved an unpermitted separation process.

[0050] Figure 4 An exemplary top view of a connecting element 34 in the form of a Torx screw 36 is shown. According to... Figure 4 The illustration shows only the screw head 38 of the Torx screw 36. The screw head 38 has a Torx tool interface 40 with a characteristic structure. A first segment 42 and a second segment 44 are shown around the periphery of the screw head 38 of the Torx screw 36. For the two segments 42, 44 shown, the characteristic surface structure 18 located on the face of the screw head 38 can now be photographed using a suitable camera system. For subsequent recording purposes and for comparison, in the case of shape matching, the transition area between the circumferential edge of the screw head 38 and the underlying support surface is also worthy of attention. Figure 4 and 4.1As can be seen, a connection is established between the first component 12 and the second component 14 by means of a connecting element 34 configured as a Torx screw 36. These components may be, for example, metal plate components, such as those in the steering system of an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle.

[0051] exist Figure 5 In the enlarged view, the first segment 42 and the second segment 44 are reproduced. In the enlarged view 46, the characteristic surface structure 18 on the upper side of the screw head 38, which is constructed as a circle here, is more clearly visible. The first segment 42 and the second segment 44 have a portion of the Torx tool interface 40. Also here, in the area of ​​the Torx tool interface 40, deformation, for example, that can be produced by the tool joint, can be recorded.

[0052] from Figure 6 As can be seen by example, based on the macroscopic image taken in the form of image 16, relevant segments 42 and 44 in image 16 (see [link to image 16]) can be analyzed. Figure 4 and Figure 5 (The illustration) is magnified 46. At this time, image 16 can be encoded 50 during image conversion 48. Encoding 50 in binary code form is performed based on the macroscopic capture of at least one image 16, and the code can be stored on storage medium 20, such as cloud 22, without consuming a large amount of storage space. Instead Figure 6 The cloud 22 shown in the illustration can also be a programmable logic control unit 72, etc.

[0053] From the basis Figure 6 As can be seen from the processing flow, in the implementation variation, both the code obtained from encoding 50 and the fingerprint 52 can be stored on storage system 20 or cloud 22. Compared to storing fingerprint 52, storing the code obtained from encoding 50 requires less storage space.

[0054] From the basis Figure 7 The diagram shows the surface selection 54 for feature surface structure 18. Based on... Figure 7 The illustrations exemplarily show surface 96 of a casting, surface 98 obtained by machining, and cast or injection-molded plastic material 60, more specifically its characteristic surface structure 18. Furthermore, from the... Figure 7 The illustration shows the characteristic surface structures 18 of materials (e.g., leather 62) and forged materials 64. The materials, more specifically the processed materials, exhibit the characteristic surface structures 18, which appear at the connection points 10 related to safety or warranty in the original state 28, i.e., the product delivery state.

[0055] Figure 8An algorithm structure 70 is shown, which is provided to a programmable logic control unit 72 when at least one image 16 is captured macroscopically. Alternatively, a production execution system (MES) 76 can be used instead of the MES 72. The MES 76 can be integrated into a production unit, for example, for generating DMCs. The processing device 74 here represents an automated production unit that can be organized in the form of a production line.

[0056] In the method proposed according to the invention, at least one macroscopic image 16 is taken of the connection structure features in the form of a connecting element 34 configured as a Torx screw 36. The state shown in the macroscopic image 16 corresponds to the original state 28 at the end of the production of the component, assembly, or control device. Thus, the connection part 10 related to safety and / or quality assurance is recorded tamper-proofly, specifically in macroscopic images of, for example, the Torx screw 36 and the metal plate and their corresponding characteristic surface structures 18. These characteristic surface structures 18 have natural uniqueness, which gives each connection part 10 related to safety and / or quality assurance its fingerprint 52. Thus, in the case of coding 50, a code is generated and stored in the cloud 22, wherein the code is also unique due to the uniqueness of the characteristic surface 18 and can be clearly identified.

[0057] When inspecting whether the equipment or safety- or warranty-related connection 10 is in its original state 28, a comparison image 24 is taken of the same image segment as the image segment corresponding to the original state 28, and this comparison image can be compared with the original state 28 at the end of the production process or when the product is delivered. In cases where subsequent removal of the safety- or warranty-related connection 10 is not permitted, it is highly unlikely that the connection will be restored to its original state 28. By using the method proposed according to the invention, significant simplification and cost advantages are achieved by eliminating surface cleanliness requirements for connecting elements (e.g., screws, Torx screws, etc.). The use of paint and the time required for its application and curing are eliminated. Safety-related advantages include the inability to create mechanical copies, and the ability to vary the security level by increasing the shooting area of ​​macroscopic photography, increasing the number of shooting areas, and varying the shooting area outwards or inwards, depending on the presence of the mounting components. Furthermore, it should be noted that the decoding of the code generated during encoding 50 is performed in a cloud 22 that prevents third-party access. Information present there, such as codes, photographs, and possible product data, can also be added to the security query afterward. This means that Code 50 can be designed to be very secure, highly scalable, and highly resistant to tampering through its continuous transformation.

[0058] The method proposed according to the invention can also be extended to connection points 10 formed by material fit, such as fusion welds and brazed welds. This method is particularly suitable for recording connection points 10 related to safety and / or warranty at the time of product delivery. After macroscopic imaging, these connection points can no longer be altered, disengaged, tightened, or otherwise tampered with.

[0059] Furthermore, it should be noted that the cloud 22 can store either a macroscopic capture of at least one image 16 in its original state 28 and / or code generated during encoding 50 (1kB / image). Additionally, the PCD and fingerprint 52 can be combined to provide the end customer with separately detectable, visible evidence.

[0060] In another advantageous and feasible embodiment of the method proposed according to the invention, the photographs taken using a mobile phone, presenting larger image segments, can be stored on storage medium 20 and / or cloud 22. These photographs can then be evaluated during image conversion 48, thereby enabling the identification of segments of interest, such as... Figure 4 and Figure 5 The first segment 42 and the second segment 44 are shown. Furthermore, by the method proposed according to the invention, in addition to recording the characteristic surface structure 18, shape pairings, such as the orientation of the keyway interface on the Torx screw 36, i.e., the Torx tool interface 40, more precisely its relative position with respect to an edge or corner, can also be recorded.

[0061] The method proposed according to the present invention can be used as an external service, such as an application, to guarantee the original state 28 as proof of originality or as resistant to modification or alteration.

[0062] Furthermore, the method proposed according to the present invention can be designed to record the arrangement of semiconductor elements on the upper side of a printed circuit board (PCB), regardless of whether there are material mating connections in the form of solder joints.

[0063] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein and the aspects emphasized therein. Rather, various modifications that are within the scope of the claims and are applicable to those skilled in the art.

Claims

1. A method for determining a disallowed separation process of a connection (10) that is formed by shape fitting, material fitting, or force transmission and connects at least two parts (12, 14) to each other, the method comprising at least the following steps: a) Take at least one image (16) of the connection point (10) of the at least two components (12, 14) at a macroscopic level. b) Generate an encoding (50) of the at least one image (16) and store the at least one image (16) on a storage medium (20) and / or the cloud (22). c) For comparison purposes, at least one comparative image (24) of the connection portion (10) is re-captured macroscopically, and d) Compare the characteristic surface features (18) of a macroscopically captured image (16) of the connection portion (10) according to method step a) with a macroscopically captured image (24) of at least one comparison image of the connection portion (10).

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, At the end of the production of the component, assembly or part, a macroscopic image (16) of at least one connection point (10) is taken.

3. The method according to claims 1 and 2, characterized in that, The security level can be changed in the following ways: a) Ensure the safety level covers the shooting area; b) Select the shooting area; c) Change the shooting area.

4. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The encoding (50) generated according to method step b) is decoded on the storage medium (20) and / or the cloud (22).

5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, According to method step d), add the information present on the cloud (22), especially the code generated from the captured image (16) and the information obtained through secure query.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, For connection parts (10) related to safety and / or warranty, record their condition at the time of product delivery.

7. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that, At least one image (16) and / or the encoding (50) generated according to method step b) are stored on the storage medium (20) and / or the cloud (22).

8. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that, Combine physical change detection (PCD) and / or "fingerprint" (52).

9. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, In the case of comparison made according to method step d), shape matching is performed, especially the orientation of the Torx screw (36) relative to the edge of the component (12, 14).

10. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The mobile phone photography was evaluated by identifying suitable segments (42, 44) from the image clips.

11. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, Record the arrangement of semiconductor components on the upper side of a printed circuit board (PCB) having material-fitting connection points (10), especially solder joints.

12. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 11, used in vehicle control equipment (MEP, VEP, ADAS) with a high-performance processor system or in power module and / or server applications.

13. The use of the method in autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicles, particularly in the vehicle’s steering / braking system or steering / braking applications.

Images