Support for vehicle occupants in case of allergic reactions

Abstract

System for recording data on allergic reactions of a vehicle occupant, comprising a recording and / or storage device (5, 30) by means of which pollen in the area of ​​the vehicle (1) can be recorded and / or stored, wherein the recording and / or storage device (5, 30) has an electrically controllable pollen inlet (34) with which the pollen recording can be controlled.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to methods and devices for supporting vehicle occupants, in particular drivers, in the event of allergic reactions. The invention specifically relates to a system for recording data on a driver's allergic reactions in a vehicle, and to a vehicle equipped with such a system.

[0002] Allergic reactions in humans are sometimes triggered by a wide variety of causes. Allergic reactions affecting the respiratory tract, eyes, skin, stomach, and / or intestines, etc., can occur, for example, due to pollen, pet dander, dust mites, certain foods, insect venom, and so on. Allergies can be prevented and / or alleviated with appropriate medication, such as antihistamines. Nevertheless, allergy sufferers often experience some allergy-related health limitations.

[0003] Allergies caused by pollen (flower dust) are relatively widespread. The allergic reaction primarily affects those parts of the body that the pollen directly comes into contact with, such as the conjunctiva of the eyes or the mucous membranes of the nose. This typically leads to irritation or inflammation, or swelling of the mucous membranes, sometimes resulting in severely swollen and reddened noses or eyes, watering, itching, runny nose or hay fever (rhinitis), and sneezing, sometimes even to the point of fits. The allergy subsequently leads to significant impairments for those affected, for example, in their breathing and vision. These symptoms can also impair the affected person's ability to concentrate. Drivers affected in this way are also limited in their ability to drive and may even be unfit to drive.

[0004] To warn allergy sufferers of potential dangers at an early stage, pollen forecast services have been established. These services provide information and forecasts on local pollen levels, including the types of pollen and an assessment of their respective intensities, to the general public, for example via the internet. One such service can be accessed at http: / / www.wetterdienst.de / Deutschlandwetter / Muenchen / Pollenflug / .

[0005] German patent DE 10 2007 050 375 A1 discloses the ability to transmit weather information data from weather services to a vehicle and display it there for informational purposes or to use it for setting vehicle parameters. The displayed weather information may also include pollen count information.

[0006] In EP 1 505 369 B1 it was described that in a navigation system for vehicles an attribute “pollen” is assigned to the geographical navigation data stored therein if a user of the navigation system has detected pollen on a certain section of the route during a journey, whereby additional data, e.g., on the respective months in which the pollen occurred, can be stored with the relevant location data of the route section.

[0007] German patent DE 10 2012 018 472 A1 describes how a vehicle navigation system can retrieve and use georeferenced datasets from various data providers (so-called hit lists) on meteorological parameters. Statistical analyses of a route can be performed using these hit lists and displayed in the vehicle. For example, the maximum and minimum temperatures from a hit list can be displayed for a given route. Pollen count information can also be included as a category of weather information.

[0008] German patent DE 10 2012 019 520 A1 discloses a mobile device for detecting airborne particles such as pollen, which includes an automatic positioning system such as a GPS receiver. US patent 2014 / 0115730 A1 describes an analysis unit for pollen.

[0009] For monitoring a patient's health, particularly with regard to asthma and asthma attacks, a portable, patient-applied device is known from DE 10 2008 064 107 A1, which determines the nitrogen oxide (NO) content of the exhaled air. The measured values ​​are transmitted to an evaluation unit. Further patient-specific data and data on external factors such as weather or pollen levels can be used for data analysis.

[0010] From DE 10 2012 009 833 A1, a system is known that detects protective reflex reactions, such as a driver sneezing in a motor vehicle, and reacts accordingly. The system comprises a higher-level driver assistance system and a lower-level driver assistance system. The higher-level driver assistance system includes one or more sensors, for example, an acoustic sensor, a motion sensor, an optical sensor, an image recognition device, and / or a pressure sensor. The sensor(s) detect at least one driver state variable that describes the driver's condition. An analysis device uses this driver state variable to determine whether the driver is exhibiting a protective reflex reaction, such as a sneezing fit, a coughing fit, an eye-protection reaction, or any other reflex movement that temporarily renders the driver unfit to drive.His ability to drive might be impaired. If an impairment of driving ability is detected, a control system triggers an intervention in the vehicle's driving dynamics, for example by activating the subordinate driver assistance system.

[0011] German patent DE 10 2011 085 626 A1 discloses a vehicle monitoring system that can record and store data on a driver's known allergic reactions as a medical profile. The driver is monitored by a camera, and a warning is issued if a corresponding allergic reaction is detected. Furthermore, remote pollen report data can be accessed, and if a threshold is exceeded, a warning can be issued to the driver. The driver may also be advised to take medication, such as an antihistamine, or a route to a location where such medication is likely to be sold may be suggested. The data recorded in the vehicle can be stored there and later transferred to a permanent patient record.

[0012] US Patent 6,466,133 B1 discloses a device and method for allergy detection and for providing air and asthma analyses. The system comprises two components: a basic device for allergen data collection and a multifunctional device for personal asthma management.

[0013] US patent 2014 / 0245817A1 discloses a method for analyzing air quality in a motor vehicle. Air samples are collected from inside the vehicle and analyzed using sensors. The air is drawn in via a vacuum source.

[0014] US patent 2011 / 0239777A1 also describes a system for collecting airborne particles and microorganisms. The system includes an airflow control mechanism that serves to control the air volume as air is drawn through the system by means of a vacuum source.

[0015] The contents of the above-mentioned publications are hereby incorporated into this description by reference.

[0016] The object of the invention is to provide methods and means suitable for supporting vehicle occupants suffering from allergic reactions in such a way as to alleviate their symptoms.

[0017] This problem is solved by the invention specified in the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the dependent claims.

[0018] According to a first aspect of the invention, a system for recording data on allergic reactions of a vehicle occupant is provided, comprising a recording and / or storage device. Pollen in the vehicle area can be recorded and / or stored by means of the recording and / or storage device. The system may, in particular, include an electronic control device configured to control the recording and / or storage device.

[0019] According to a second aspect of the invention, a method for recording data on allergic reactions of a vehicle occupant is described, in which pollen in the area of ​​the vehicle is recorded and / or stored by means of a recording and / or storage device. The recording and / or storage can be controlled, in particular, by means of an electronic control device.

[0020] The invention is based on the understanding that relatively large geographical areas can be traversed in a relatively short time with a motor vehicle, and that the associated disadvantage of potentially driving through a pollen-prone area that could trigger allergic reactions in vehicle occupants can also be used to the benefit of the occupants. Furthermore, the invention recognizes that existing infrastructure in a motor vehicle, such as an interior camera, a microphone from a hands-free system, or a pressure sensor from a seat occupancy detection system, can advantageously be used to automatically detect allergic reactions in a vehicle occupant. It also recognizes that, using signals from such devices, it is advantageously possible to selectively collect pollen in the vicinity of the vehicle in situations where allergic reactions have been detected.The invention thus makes it advantageous to conduct allergy tests under real-life, everyday conditions. In particular, the invention can also help maintain or even improve a driver's fitness to drive.

[0021] The invention thus advantageously enables the situationally adapted and at least partially automated collection of air samples and / or pollen, whereby a multitude of additional data can be correlated with the collected pollen during the collection process. Pollen data such as pollen type, pollen concentration, etc., which can be determined, for example, during the journey or in the vehicle, or subsequently in a laboratory, allow for a person-specific analysis for each vehicle occupant, based on a broad and comprehensive database. This can be achieved in particular using appropriately correlated geographical data, temporal data, weather data, and / or data from pollen forecast services. This can significantly support and potentially improve medical diagnoses and treatment approaches for each vehicle occupant.

[0022] The invention can increase driving safety and comfort, particularly for drivers with allergies, because it enables a vehicle-side control system to detect allergic reactions early and initiate appropriate measures to alleviate these reactions, either independently or with the driver's input. This advantage is especially significant if the driver has forgotten to take allergy medication before starting the journey or if their allergic sensitivity is previously unknown. Driving comfort can be enhanced, particularly in vehicles with a sunroof or convertible top. The invention allows the vehicle to drive with the sunroof or convertible top open and, if an allergic reaction occurs or is imminent, prompts the driver to close the sunroof or convertible top, or closes it fully automatically.Within the scope of the invention, other measures can also be initiated, such as changing a route or issuing a message or recommendation to take a break and / or change drivers. In particular, a seat occupancy sensor can be used to detect whether there is another person in the vehicle besides the driver. A message or recommendation to find, and if necessary, automatic route guidance to, the nearest suitable location (so-called Point of Interest, POI), such as a rest stop, doctor's office, hospital, or pharmacy, can also be provided. Such a recommendation can be particularly advantageous if no personal health data is currently available for the respective vehicle occupant, especially the driver, indicating an allergy susceptibility, or if the person concerned is not yet aware of their tendency to allergic reactions.

[0023] In an advantageous embodiment of a system according to the invention, the receiving and / or storage device comprises a volume control device for incoming air, by means of which the volume of air flowing in during pollen collection, containing the pollen, can be regulated. This allows, if the system is installed in a vehicle in such a way that airflow from driving into the system, the same volume of air to be collected per unit of time even at different vehicle speeds, so that, for example, the pollen concentration in the collected air can be determined relatively accurately.

[0024] Furthermore, it is advantageous to provide at least one receptacle for a container and / or an adhesive surface for storing the pollen. Pollen stored in this way can advantageously be examined using a suitable analytical device, whereby the type and quantity of the collected pollen are determined in particular. The ratios of different pollen types, as well as the corresponding quantities and ratios of dust and soot that were collected or stored together with the pollen in the receptacle and / or storage device, can also be determined. For analysis, the container or an adhesive unit, such as an adhesive strip containing the adhesive surface, can be removed at a later time and, for example, sent to a medical laboratory. The corresponding analysis results and / or other recorded data can then be used as evidence of the pollen allergy of the vehicle occupant.

[0025] For analysis, a suitable analysis device can be installed in the vehicle, or a mobile analysis device independent of the vehicle can be used. The air samples or collected pollen, and the data associated with them, can also be evaluated by a physician, microbiologist, or chemist and, if necessary, used for further medically sound treatment recommendations. This is particularly advantageous if an automated analysis device, especially one installed in the vehicle, has not reliably detected the specific allergy or symptoms. It is also beneficial if the vehicle occupant, especially the driver, is unaware of the allergy or symptoms and therefore no corresponding patient data is available for automated analysis.

[0026] The receptacle for the container or the adhesive surface in the receiving and / or storage device is, in particular, mounted so as to be slidable, and the control device may, in particular, be configured to control a displacement of the receptacle. Additional electrical devices, such as an electric motor controlled by the control device, may be provided for this displacement.

[0027] The collection and / or storage device may further include an electrically controlled pollen inlet, for example with an adjustable flap, with which the pollen intake can be controlled. The collection and / or storage device may further include an electrically controlled pollen outlet, for example with an adjustable flap, with which the storage or introduction of the pollen into the container or onto the adhesive surface can be controlled.

[0028] The collection and / or storage device may include an intermediate collection container for pollen. It may include a volume control device by means of which the volume of air containing the pollen flowing into the intermediate collection container during pollen collection can be regulated.

[0029] In a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the control device is configured to collect pollen over an adjustable period and / or within an adjustable geographical area and to uniquely assign corresponding time and / or location data to the collected pollen. The time data can, for example, be derived from an on-board clock in the vehicle, and the location data can, for example, be derived from a navigation system in the vehicle. A data storage device, and in particular a database, can be provided in the system for assigning the data. The containers or adhesive surfaces each filled with pollen can be labeled with corresponding data, for example, by means of a printing device provided in the system.

[0030] The data collection system may also include at least one of the following facilities: - a device for exchanging signals and / or data, in particular a device that is at least partially wired and / or wireless, for example using a wireless radio interface such as a mobile communication interface according to the standards Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM), GSM 3 and / or GSM4 and / or a Bluetooth or Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) interface, - a human-machine interface, in particular a graphical interface, for example a touchscreen or a screen and / or an electromechanical rotary / push-button controller for selecting graphical symbols, an acoustic interface with microphone, speech recognition and / or loudspeaker, etc., - a weather and / or pollen information service that provides weather data and / or pollen count data and may transmit it to the system, in particular online via a wireless data transmission unit, whereby the data may in particular have a geographical-regional and / or a temporal assignment, - a health service, for example a data storage device in which medical data relating to the vehicle occupant is stored, in particular as an allergy-related patient profile, wherein the data storage device may be located in the vehicle, in the vehicle key, in a smartphone or tablet PC of the vehicle occupant or outside the vehicle, for example in a private, fixed or mobile computer of the vehicle occupant or in a hospital or doctor's office in the form of a patient database, - a navigation system, in particular a navigation system installed in the vehicle based on the Global Positioning System (GPS), with which the current location of the vehicle can be determined and / or route calculations can be carried out, - a sensor system by which the condition parameters of the vehicle occupant can be recorded, in particular parameters relating to allergic symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, redness and / or swelling of the eyes and / or nose, and / or - a pollen sensor system.

[0031] The specified sensor system for recording a condition parameter of the vehicle occupant can be an optical sensor or a camera that captures the driver's face, either partially or completely, and analyzes the recorded images and / or video sequences for allergic symptoms as described above, such as swelling or redness of the eyes or nose, a runny nose, sneezing, etc. An acoustic sensor or microphone, or a pressure sensor, can also be provided, which, for example, can be integrated into a seat, particularly the driver's seat, its backrest, or headrest to detect a sneezing reflex. Sneezing can also be detected, for example, by a humidity sensor, and inflammation of the nose and / or eye by an infrared (IR) sensor. A haptic sensor can also be included.In particular, components for detecting protective reflex reactions or components described in the aforementioned DE 10 2012 009 833 A1, or components for determining breathing air parameters, etc., described in DE 10 2008 064 107 A, can also be used. These two publications are referenced again here for this purpose.

[0032] The sensor system also includes, in particular, a corresponding data processing unit in which the respective sensor signals and / or data derived from them are processed and evaluated, for example an image processing unit image data.

[0033] The pollen sensor system for data acquisition can, in particular, comprise a relatively simple pollen sensor that analyzes pollen samples captured only briefly and / or determines the pollen concentration in the air. Based on this result, a control unit in the vehicle can then make a decision, fully or partially automatically, as to whether to initiate more complex pollen collection, specifically the storage of the pollen in the recording and / or storage device. It is also conceivable that the driver could manually store the pollen, for example, by pressing a button on or near the steering wheel or by issuing a command via voice control.

[0034] In the inventive method for recording data on allergic reactions of a vehicle occupant, the airflow entering the recording and / or storage device can be regulated. This regulation can be carried out particularly in relation to the vehicle speed. As a result, essentially the same amount of air can be recorded per unit of time while driving, regardless of speed, so that the pollen density in the recorded air can be evaluated with relatively high accuracy.

[0035] The recording and / or storage of pollen can advantageously be started and / or stopped by means of a start / stop signal. The start / stop signal can be generated, in particular, by means of a signal and / or data provided by at least one of the following systems: - a human-machine interface, - a weather and / or pollen information service, - a health service, - a navigation system, - a sensor system that records the condition variables of the vehicle occupant, - a pollen sensor system.

[0036] During the recording and / or storage of pollen, at least one of the following additional data can preferably be recorded and / or stored: - Geodata, in particular coordinates of the vehicle's current location, whereby georeferenced data can be created, - Time data such as the current date and / or the current time, - Health and / or condition data of the vehicle occupant, - Weather data, for example provided by a weather service and possibly retrieved, in or on the vehicle, in particular data recorded by vehicle sensors such as outside temperature, air pressure, humidity, wind speed, etc.

[0037] Based on the collected and / or stored pollen samples and data printed on the sample containers or adhesive strips, especially time and location data, further comparisons can be made in subsequent processes, for example using data from stationary pollen monitoring stations located in the area traversed. Control measurements can also be carried out.

[0038] The invention thus enables a reliable and secure diagnosis of pollen allergies. This is particularly advantageous when a vehicle occupant was previously unaware of their allergic reaction. Using the data obtained through the invention, it is possible to both confirm the presence of such an allergy and subsequently determine the specific symptoms more precisely based on the collected pollen samples. In particular, it is possible to determine which type of pollen (e.g., hazel, alder, poplar, willow, ash, beech, grasses, birch, pine, etc.) the respective vehicle occupant reacted to.

[0039] A system according to the invention can be configured, in particular, to perform one or more of the process steps specified in the present description. The execution can be carried out by means of at least one control unit, signal and / or data processing unit and / or data transmission unit, as well as by means of one or more sensors and / or one or more actuators.

[0040] The recording and / or storage device can be located on or in the vehicle and / or in the area of ​​the vehicle's front, particularly in the area of ​​front and / or side air intakes, such as behind the radiator grille. It can also be located in the passenger compartment.

[0041] According to a further aspect of the invention, which can be considered independently or in combination with the aspects described above, a system for a vehicle provides means, such as a camera and / or a control unit, with which an allergic reaction of a vehicle occupant can be detected. If necessary, an early warning is issued to the vehicle occupant. The system can also be connected to a weather service that provides weather data and / or pollen count data. Furthermore, data suitable for assessing an allergic reaction of the vehicle occupant can be stored in a memory. This data can include person-specific data, in particular patient data of the vehicle occupant, for example, from a digital patient record.The relevant data can be exchanged between a vehicle data storage device and a vehicle-independent data storage device via a wireless connection, for example via a mobile network connection, a Bluetooth connection and / or a WLAN connection.

[0042] Based on the results of an evaluation to determine whether a vehicle occupant is experiencing an allergic reaction, a corresponding warning signal can be issued and / or the vehicle's navigation system can generate and, if necessary, display a route recommendation for a route with a lower exposure to allergens, particularly lower pollen levels. This can also include an individualized analysis based on personal historical data regarding specific pollen types, and the provision of data corresponding to a personalized recommendation for an alternative route.

[0043] The vehicle occupant can be, in particular, the driver. For the purposes of this invention, a vehicle is understood to be any type of vehicle, especially for the transport of persons and / or goods by land, water and / or rail, and in particular motor vehicles such as passenger cars, trucks, buses and motorcycles.

[0044] The invention allows a vehicle to be operated in two operating modes, namely in a normal operating mode in which no pollen is collected and in a pollen collection mode in which pollen is collected, particularly during driving.

[0045] Further embodiments of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the figures. Similar elements across all figures are identified by the same reference numerals. The figures show: Fig. 1 a vehicle equipped with a data acquisition system, Fig. 2 a map representation, Fig. 3. A first map presentation with supplementary information, Fig. 4 a second map display with supplementary information and Fig. 5a and Fig. 5b Pollen collection and storage facilities.

[0046] In Fig. Figure 1 depicts a vehicle designed as a passenger car 1, which has a pollen collection and / or intake device 5 in the front area directly behind the radiator grille 17. Air flowing in through the radiator grille 17 can be captured by this device and any pollen it may contain can be collected.

[0047] The recording and / or storage device 5 is connected to a control unit 3, which in turn comprises several subsystems, namely a navigation system (NAV) 10 and a data storage device (GDS) 11, in which personal health data of one or more occupants or regular users of the passenger vehicle 1 are stored. This personal health data includes, for example, data on known pollen allergies of various vehicle users who typically drive the vehicle and / or travel in it as passengers. Corresponding user profiles are stored for each vehicle user. The respective user profile can be edited by the vehicle user. The control unit 3 also includes an evaluation component 12 (PAA), which serves to control the recording and / or storage device 5.Within this control system, a start signal can be generated and output to initiate the recording and / or storage of ambient air. Furthermore, corresponding sensor signals can be recorded from a particle sensor integrated into the recording and / or storage unit 5. Based on these signals, evaluations can be performed in the passenger vehicle 1 while driving, essentially in real time. These evaluations can include, for example, the density or concentration of pollen, dust, and / or smoke present in the recorded air. Depending on the specific configuration, certain types of pollen can also be identified. The evaluation component 12 can process additional sensor signals or data provided in the vehicle, such as interior temperature, exterior temperature, interior / exterior humidity, air pressure, etc.Coordinates of the current vehicle position and / or data of a currently entered route, provided by the GPS-based navigation device 10, can also be processed and used to control the recording and / or storage device 5 and / or stored in an internal and / or external vehicle data storage device. When the recording and / or storage of pollen in the recording and / or storage device 5 is initiated, the corresponding available current data is logically linked or correlated to form a data record and stored. If pollen is actually stored, the respective storage location, i.e., the respective storage container or adhesive surface in which the storage takes place, is also identified, for example, by means of an attached numerical code or barcode, and is likewise assigned to the data record and stored. The storage container may, in particular, have chambers or...be subdivided into such. A recording and / or storage device or a corresponding additional particle sensor as described herein may also be provided in the passenger compartment of the passenger car 1.

[0048] The passenger car 1 is equipped with various other control units and devices that are connected to the control unit 3, for example, vehicle sensors and actuators such as a human-machine interface (HMI) 2, which in turn includes input / output devices such as a touchscreen display device (TOU) 6 shown here, a camera 7, a microphone, and a vehicle key 9. The camera 7 can, in particular, record both of the driver's eyes, thus enabling, for example, a comparison of the respective symptoms in each eye. Furthermore, it is conceivable to examine the nose, mouth, and / or throat area for characteristic allergic reaction features, especially with regard to a runny nose and / or a reddened throat. The camera 7 can also be configured as a stereo camera.

[0049] The control units 2, 3 of the passenger car 1 are further connected to a mobile communication device 4 via a receiver 13 and a transmitter 14, by means of which they can exchange data with external data sources, for example with the computer system or data storage 15 of a weather and / or pollen information service (WPI) and a computer system or data storage 16 of a health center (HZC).

[0050] The recording and / or storage of pollen in the recording and / or storage device 5 can, for example, be started fully or partially automatically based on data that is loaded from the data storage device 15 of a weather and / or pollen information service (WPI) into the control unit 3 of the passenger car 1. In particular, the respective geographical data of the area where pollen is present, possibly the type and concentration of pollen in the air, and / or weather data for the area, especially the probability of precipitation, can be transmitted and used. Additionally, sensor-acquired data from one or more vehicle occupants indicating an allergic reaction can be used to decide whether to start recording and / or storing pollen. Predefined threshold values ​​can also be used for this purpose.Data retrieved from computer 16 of the health service regarding the respective occupant can also be used, provided the vehicle occupant has been identified in the vehicle, for example, by means of a camera and a facial recognition system. For example, the recording and / or storage of pollen can be started fully or partially automatically based on at least one of the following data points or messages: 1. A computer 15 of a weather and / or pollen information service reports a higher concentration than a threshold value for a certain type of pollen in the air of the current vehicle location area, 2. A computer 16 of the health service reports that the vehicle occupant is allergic to this particular type of pollen, 3. Using one or more in-vehicle sensors, currently existing allergic reactions of the vehicle occupant in question are detected; in particular, an increase in allergic reactions is detected when driving through the current vehicle occupant's area. 4. The recording and / or storage of pollen is started or enabled by means of a signal initiated, for example, manually or via voice input from a vehicle occupant. 5. A particle sensor installed in the vehicle outputs a signal indicating that the pollen concentration at the vehicle's current location exceeds a predetermined threshold.

[0051] Based on the Fig. 1, Fig. 2, Fig. 3 to Fig. 4. A journey with a passenger car 1 through a pollen-prone area is described below as an example, along with the data transmission processes and procedural steps for pollen-prone driver assistance functions that occur during this journey.

[0052] Before the journey begins, personal, health-related data, including information about the driver's allergies, is already stored in the vehicle key 9 assigned to the driver. This data is automatically saved to the data storage device 11 of the passenger car 1 as soon as the vehicle is unlocked with the vehicle key 9. Alternatively, the system may require the driver to authorize the data transfer and / or confirm that they are aware of their allergic reactions, drive at their own risk, and / or that data about the journey, pollen, and / or their allergic reactions are recorded during the journey.

[0053] As soon as the ignition of the passenger car 1 is switched on, the control units 2, 3 and 4 are activated. Using the control unit 2 for the human-machine interface, a destination is entered into the navigation system 2, and a route 23 is calculated from the current location of the passenger car 1 (starting point A) to the destination C. A corresponding map 21 with the route 23 is displayed on the touchscreen 6 in a display window 20. Fig. 1 and Fig. 2) The current location of the passenger vehicle 1 is also represented by a vehicle symbol 22 within the map 21.

[0054] Furthermore, weather and pollen data are loaded via receiver 13 of the communication unit 4 from the computer 15 of the weather and pollen service into the control unit 3 of the passenger car 1, for example into the data storage 11 and / or into the navigation system 10. The weather and pollen data are georeferenced and are combined in the navigation system 10 with the route data generated there in such a way that in the Fig. The display window shown in section 2 displays 20 pollen count information. Fig. Symbols 24, 25, 26, and 27, positioned along route 23, indicate that pollen levels relevant to the driver are present in pollen zone B, through which route 23 passes. For example, the number "0" in symbols 24 and 27 indicates that the risk of an allergic reaction is low for the driver in that particular section of the route, while the numbers "2" and "3" in symbols 25 and 26 indicate a slight and significant risk of an allergic reaction, respectively. Symbols 24, 25, 26, and 27 can also be colored, for example, to represent the hazard level from 0 to 3 in green, yellow, orange, and red.

[0055] To determine the symbol applicable to each individual driver, the control unit 2 processes and, in particular, compares the data retrieved from the computer 26 of the weather and pollen information service with the driver's health-related data stored in the vehicle's data storage 26. Health-related data of the driver can be loaded into the passenger vehicle 1 from the computer 16 of the health service via receiver 13, either instead of or in addition to being loaded from the vehicle key 9, and used accordingly to determine the respective symbols 24, 25, 26, and 27. This data is processed in the course of the corresponding data processing. In particular, a comparison is made between the driver's allergy susceptibility or typical allergic reactions and the predicted pollen types and pollen intensities in the air of the pollen zone B intended for travel through.

[0056] In Fig. 3 is one for Fig. 2. A corresponding message is displayed in display window 20, which occurs during the journey. The symbol 22 of passenger car 1 is located at point B1, where the vehicle enters pollen zone B. An information window 28 therefore opens in the lower part of display window 20, informing the driver that they are now driving through a pollen zone. The length of the section of route 23 that passes through pollen zone B is also displayed (e.g., 50 km). Furthermore, information window 28 provides recommendations to watch out for allergic reactions. If the vehicle were a convertible, a message to close the roof could also be displayed.

[0057] Using a selection button 29a, which is also displayed, the driver can instruct the navigation system 10 to calculate an alternative route to the pollen area B by pressing a button on the touchscreen 6. The navigation system 10 then calculates, for example, an alternative route that leads via the alternative location D.

[0058] Via a selection button 29b, also displayed in information window 28, the driver can instruct the intake and / or collection device 5 to enter an operating state in which it intakes and collects ambient air, including pollen, by pressing the touchscreen 6. For example, a mechanical flap can be opened to allow air access to the intake and / or collection device 5 ( Fig. 5).

[0059] The driver can retrieve further information via a selection button 29c, also displayed in the information window 28, for example - Details of the weather report, - Details of the pollen report, - Data from vehicle sensors and / or - General allergy information.

[0060] The relevant information can be stored in the vehicle and / or provided and retrieved from external data sources, particularly via communication device 4. An internet connection can also be used for retrieval. Button 29 can, in particular, display a selection menu in which further information categories are presented in a structured manner and additional data sources can be selected. The human-machine interface 2 can, in particular, include an internet browser for using an internet connection and can be started by pressing button 29c or by selecting from a menu displayed thereafter.

[0061] During the Fig. The information window 28, shown in section 4, displays further information. Firstly, general pollen information retrieved from the pollen information service is shown, indicating that there is currently no hazel pollen, a low pollen count for alder, a high pollen count for birch, and a low pollen count for grasses. Based on the individual health data of the driver, who, for example, is only allergic to alder, it is shown that their personal risk index for allergic reactions is low under the given conditions.

[0062] During the journey, the driver is recorded by camera 7, and sounds inside the vehicle are recorded by microphone 8. Additional sensors, such as humidity and pressure sensors, may be installed in the vehicle interior. The recorded sensor data is evaluated in control unit 3 against predefined reference values ​​or patterns, such as reference symptom patterns of allergic reactions experienced by the driver, in order to detect any allergic reactions that may have occurred during the journey. Personal health data of the driver can also be read from data storage 11 and used, for example, data indicating that the driver or vehicle occupants typically experience predominantly eye or nose-related allergic symptoms, or that the individual suffers primarily from sneezing.Then, for example, camera and / or microphone signals indicating that the driver frequently blows their nose and / or sneezes while driving through a pollen-rich area can be used to infer an allergic reaction. The data storage unit 11 can also contain person-independent data for the assignment or identification of allergy symptoms, for example, a database that interacts with an expert system integrated into the control unit.

[0063] Based on the data evaluated in this way, the respective display on the touchscreen 6 or in the display field 20 is controlled and the driver is informed accordingly. Further control measures can also be taken, such as closing the windows or the convertible top of the vehicle, or offering the driver an alternative route to choose from, which may then be calculated and displayed in the navigation system 10.

[0064] The relevant data, in particular data on the time, route, and location of the vehicle, as well as pollen and / or weather data, are stored in control unit 2, specifically in memory 11 for health data. Sensory data, and in particular data on detected allergy symptoms such as the frequency of sneezing or images of the face, eyes, and / or nose, are also stored in memory 11.

[0065] Based on the acquired data and / or signals, the pollen recording and / or storage unit 5 can be activated by the control unit 2 to record, store, and / or analyze pollen using the analysis unit 12. This can occur automatically, for example, if data from a pollen forecast service indicates high pollen levels at the vehicle's current location and vehicle sensor data suggests that a passenger is experiencing severe or rapidly worsening allergic symptoms during the journey or upon entering a pollen zone. Activation can also be performed manually by the driver. Pollen storage can be activated fully or partially automatically if a pollen sensor in the vehicle or the recording and / or storage unit 5 detects high pollen levels, i.e., pollen counts exceeding a threshold.Analysis data obtained by the pollen analysis device 12 are also stored in the vehicle's data storage 11.

[0066] After a journey, for example upon arrival at destination C, data from the vehicle's data storage device 11 can be transmitted wirelessly or via cable, in whole or in part, to the vehicle key 9 and / or via transmitter 14 to the computer 16 of the health center. This transmission can include, in particular, images of the occupant, especially the driver, taken during the journey, showing any allergic symptoms that may have occurred, which can then be used to provide medical advice. Pollen count data, geo- and / or time-referenced data, route data, pollen analysis data, pollen storage data, etc., can also be transmitted. At the health center, the data can be further analyzed, in whole or in part, automatically.

[0067] If the available information indicates before the start of the journey that allergic reactions of a vehicle occupant are to be expected on the route, a corresponding visual and / or acoustic warning can be issued in the vehicle at a correspondingly early time.

[0068] In the Fig. 5a is a recording and storage device 30 for pollen, which is provided in Fig. The recording and / or storage device 5 shown in Figure 1 corresponds to the device. It is located in a vehicle behind the radiator grille 31, through which air potentially containing pollen flows with the airflow 32 towards D during driving. This creates a pollen inlet. The recording and storage device 30 has an electronically controlled closing flap 34, which controls the air inlet and thus, if applicable, the recording of airborne pollen, as well as any dust and soot, into a recording funnel 33.

[0069] To activate pollen intake, the sealing flap 34 is opened by means of a device located in the Fig. 5a, not shown, opens the first electric drive. To activate pollen storage, the closure flap 38 is opened by means of a second electric drive (not shown) so that a pollen outlet is formed and airborne solids such as pollen, dust, soot, etc., enter an adhesive strip 37a located below the funnel 33 and are stored there by adhesive adhesion.

[0070] After a defined irradiation time of the adhesive strips with the particle-containing airflow, a first closing flap 34 on the inlet side of the funnel 33 and a second closing flap 38 on the outlet side of the funnel 33 are closed. The closing process depends on the incoming airflow, which is primarily determined by vehicle and wind speed. To prevent a particle sample stored on adhesive strip 27b from being influenced by previously measured air particles from the preceding measurement (stored on the adjacent adhesive strip 27a), no mixing of residual air from the first measurement with the new airflow from the subsequent measurement is permitted before the first closing flap 34 is opened. Therefore, before each measurement, the residual air is extracted from the residual air volume of the funnel 33 enclosed by both closing flaps 34 and 38.This is achieved by evacuating funnel 33 using negative pressure.

[0071] The adhesive strip 37a is mounted on a mounting carrier 36 together with further adhesive strips 37b and 37c and together they form an adhesive strip arrangement 37. In order to enable a substantially constant airflow into the open funnel 33, independent of the driving speed, a constant volume flow controller 35 is provided between the inlet-side closing flap 34 and the funnel 33, which can be controlled electronically and depending on the speed and has a suitable electrical actuator.

[0072] This can be achieved in two ways to ensure that a defined airflow is always generated at the pollen outlet under various driving conditions, especially at different speeds. Firstly, the respective closing flaps 34, 38 and, if applicable, corresponding closing lenses or shutters of the constant volume flow controller 35 open and close depending on the speed. The higher the vehicle speed, and consequently the greater the aerodynamic forces of the flowing air, the faster and / or tighter the closure. Secondly, if the airflow velocity is superimposed by a headwind, this can be compensated for or filtered by the constant volume flow controller 35. The constant volume flow controller 35 can be set to a target volume flow, which is preferably based on the capacity of the adhesive strips 37a, 37b, 37c, or 37c.the micro test tube container 40a, 40b, 40c ( . Fig. 5b) is adapted. The constant volume flow controller 35 has a smoothly running control flap which keeps the set target volume flow constant over the changing differential pressure range. This is achieved by a closing torque acting on the control flap, which adjusts itself depending on the actual volume flow.

[0073] The sled-like receiving carrier 36 is movable in direction D, so that in different measurement cycles, for example in different pollen flight zones, a different adhesive strip 37a, 37b, 37c is used to store pollen. Using a printing device 39, the respective georeferenced data, time data, etc., can then be printed onto the respective adhesive or measuring strip 37a, 37b, 37c. Alternatively, it is possible to simply print a number on the respective adhesive strip 37a, 37b, 37c and assign the number to the other data, for example as a common data record that is stored in the data storage 11 of the vehicle 1. The number can, for example, be pre-printed as a barcode on the respective adhesive strip 37a, 37b, 37c, whereby instead of the printing device 39, for example a barcode scanner is used and the read barcode is stored in the data storage 11 together with the other data.After pollen has been deposited / stored on one of the adhesive strips 37a, 37b, 37c, it can be appropriately sealed or preserved, for example by applying a cover strip.

[0074] In the Fig. 5b is one of the Fig. 5a A corresponding receiving and storage device 30 is provided, wherein a micro test tube arrangement 40 is provided instead of the adhesive strip arrangement 37. The solids dispensed at the pollen outlet are filled into micro test tube containers 40a, 40b, 40c for storage. The test tube carrier 41 is also electronically controlled to be laterally displaceable in the direction of E. The micro test tube containers 40a, 40b, 40c, filled with pollen and optionally printed, are also fitted with closures 42 by means of an electrically controlled closure device. An induction process can be used for this purpose, in which a film is hermetically welded onto the respective test tube.

[0075] Before the system is ready for further sample collection, the old air sample located between the sealing flaps 34, 38 in the closed chamber of the funnel 33 is extracted under negative pressure. For this purpose, the funnel 33 has a negative pressure function, for example, by means of a connected vacuum pump. This prevents air carryover from a first air sample to a subsequent air sample, thus enabling the determination of a site-specific pollen concentration. Together with the arrangement 34, 35, 38 surrounding the funnel 33, the funnel 33 allows for both defined airflow control and the subsequent removal of the first air sample from the system.

[0076] The electrical or electronic equipment of the recording and storage devices 30 shown is controlled by the control unit 2 ( Fig.1) controlled accordingly and their respective functions activated, in particular according to the procedures described above.

[0077] An air sampling and / or storage device 5, 30 could also be located in the rear of a vehicle and thereby capture the vehicle's exhaust gases, for example, an exhaust gas concentration. This can utilize the effect that vehicles are typically exposed to a so-called exhaust trail of their own exhaust gases at the rear. A vortex forms behind the bumper, transporting air and its components from the lower edge of the bumper to the rear and back again towards the tailgate. Thus, in an analogous function to pollen detection, the monitoring of exhaust gas levels in the air would also be possible directly at the vehicle and, in particular, while driving.

[0078] The devices described above, in particular control units and system components, are controlled especially by computer programs and may include further elements of computers and digital control devices that are known per se, such as a microprocessor, volatile and non-volatile memory, interfaces, etc. The invention can therefore also be realized wholly or partially in the form of a computer program product that, when loaded and executed on a computer, wholly or partially effects a process according to the invention. It can, for example, be provided in the form of a data carrier such as a CD / DVD or in the form of one or more files on a server from which the computer program can be downloaded.

Claims

[1] System for recording data on allergic reactions of a vehicle occupant, comprising a recording and / or storage device (5, 30) by means of which pollen in the area of ​​the vehicle (1) can be recorded and / or stored, wherein the recording and / or storage device (5, 30) has an electrically controllable pollen inlet (34) with which the pollen recording can be controlled. [2] System according to claim 1, comprising an electronic control device (2, 3, 4) configured to control the recording and / or storage device (5, 30). [3] System according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the receiving and / or storage device (5, 30) includes a volume control device (34) for incoming air. [4] System according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by, that the receiving and / or storage device (5, 30) includes at least a receiving (36, 41) for a container (40a, 40b, 40c) and / or an adhesive surface (37a, 37b, 37c) for storing the pollen. [5] System according to claim 4, characterized by , that the receptacle (36, 41) is mounted in a slidable manner and that an electronic control device (2, 3, 4) is provided to control a displacement of the receptacle (36, 41). [6] System according to any of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the recording and / or storage device (5, 30) has an electrically controllable pollen outlet (38) with which the storage of the pollen can be controlled. [7] System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the receiving and / or storage device (5, 30) has an intermediate receiving container (33) for received pollen and a volume control device (35) by means of which a volume of air containing the pollen flowing into the receiving container (funnel 33) during the intake of the pollen can be controlled. [8] System according to claim 2, characterized by , that the control device (2, 3, 4) is configured to collect pollen over an adjustable period and / or in an adjustable geographical area and to uniquely assign corresponding time and / or location data to the pollen collected. [9] System according to any of the preceding claims, comprising at least one of the following facilities: - a device for exchanging signals and / or data: - a human-machine interface (2), - a weather and / or pollen information service (15), - a health service (16), - a navigation system (10), - a sensor system (6, 7, 8) by means of which state variables of a vehicle occupant can be detected, - a pollen sensor system (5). [10] Vehicle (1) comprising a system according to any of the preceding claims. [11] Method for recording data on allergic reactions of a vehicle occupant, in which pollen in the area of ​​a vehicle (1) is recorded and / or stored by means of a recording and / or storage device (5, 30), wherein an airflow flowing into the recording and / or storage device (5, 30) is regulated by means of an electrically controlled pollen inlet (34). [12] Method according to claim 11, characterized by , that the recording and / or storage device (5,30) is controlled by means of an electronic control device (2, 3, 4). [13] Method according to any one of claims 11 to 12, characterized bythat the recording and / or storage of pollen is started and / or stopped by means of a start / stop signal and that the start / stop signal is generated by means of a signal and / or data provided by at least one of the following systems: - a human-machine interface (2), - a weather and / or pollen information service (15), - a health service (16), - a sensor system (6, 7, 8) by means of which state variables of the vehicle occupant are recorded, - a pollen sensor system (5). [14] Method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, characterized by , that the recording and / or storage device (5, 30) is provided on or in the vehicle (1) and / or in the area of ​​the front of the vehicle (17). [15] Method according to any one of claims 11 to 14, characterized by, that at least one storage container (40a, 40b, 40c) and / or at least one adhesive surface (37a, 37b, 37c) is provided for storing the pollen in the receiving and / or storage device (5, 30). [16] Method according to any one of claims 11 to 15, characterized by , that during the recording and / or storage of the pollen, at least one of the following additional data is recorded and / or stored: - Geodata, - Time data, - Health and / or condition data of the vehicle occupant, - Weather data.

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