Traffic monitoring system and procedure

Abstract

Traffic monitoring system, comprehensive at least two base units permanently connected to the environment and at least one mobile monitoring unit for recording traffic data, in particular data on the speed of motor vehicles, each base unit having a mounting device and each monitoring unit having a fastening device, wherein the fastening device of each monitoring unit is designed to be detachably fastened to the mounting device of a base unit, and wherein alignment means are arranged on each monitoring unit and / or on each base unit for automatically aligning the monitoring unit according to a previously set basic alignment.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a system and method for traffic monitoring using at least one mobile monitoring unit, with which vehicle traffic data can be recorded and / or monitored. In particular, the system can be used to monitor the maximum permissible speed of motor vehicles.

[0002] Existing speed enforcement systems and methods are complex and expensive. This is due to the fact that speed checks are conducted either stationary with permanently installed speed measurement devices or mobile with high personnel costs by law enforcement agencies (police). Fixed, stationary speed measurement devices are inflexible due to their constant location and, at least for drivers familiar with the area, ineffective insofar as they only drive slowly at this known checkpoint. In contrast, mobile speed checks are flexible in terms of their location, but are associated with correspondingly high personnel costs due to the personnel required, which can only be provided by law enforcement agencies.

[0003] From CN 105 513 373 A, a device for collecting information about road conditions is known, which can both pan along the road surface and adjust its inclination angle. The device comprises a mounting bracket and a camera for detecting violations. The mounting bracket has a base mounted on a crossbar and a rack mounted on the bottom of the camera. The rear end of the base is connected to a pan drive motor, and the rear end of an output shaft of the pan drive motor is connected to a drive gear that meshes with the rack.

[0004] CN 104 219 434 A discloses a traffic monitoring camera with an automatically adjustable angle. It is mounted on a crossbar via a bracket. The camera is attached to the bracket via a rotating shaft connected to the output shaft of a motor. A motor control unit is mounted on the crossbar and is equipped with a remote control adapted to the control unit.

[0005] DE 10 2004 035 856 A1 also discloses an additional electrical device for attachment to a support tube of a traffic facility, which comprises electronic means with at least one sensor device for recording road traffic data. At least a portion of the additional electrical device can be inserted into the support tube and secured there.

[0006] The object of the present invention is to provide an inexpensive traffic monitoring system that enables effective monitoring at low cost and high flexibility.

[0007] This object is achieved according to the invention by a system according to claim 1. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention emerge from the dependent claims.

[0008] What is essential in the solution according to the invention is that the system comprises at least two base units permanently connected to the environment and at least one, preferably several, mobile monitoring units for recording traffic data, in particular data on the speed of motor vehicles, wherein each base unit has a mounting device and each monitoring unit has a fastening device, wherein the fastening device of each monitoring unit is designed to be detachably fastened to the mounting device of a base unit, and wherein alignment means for automatically aligning the monitoring unit according to a previously set basic alignment are arranged on each monitoring unit and / or on each base unit.Only a one-time basic alignment of a detachably attached monitoring unit is required at each base unit by the law enforcement authorities or a suitably certified employee. After this one-time initial alignment, each monitoring unit can be transported and installed at any base unit without the involvement of the law enforcement authorities, for example, by external service providers, since the alignment of the monitoring unit is then automatically performed by the alignment tools, corresponding to the previously performed basic alignment.

[0009] In the system according to the invention, a modular design with the division into stationary base units as first modules and detachably connectable monitoring units as second modules is of particular importance. The higher-cost traffic monitoring components, which may include, for example, elements of an optical measuring system (LIDAR) or a radar-based measuring system, in which the speed of vehicles is calculated using the Doppler effect from a measured change in the frequency of a transmitted signal to the frequency of the signal reflected by a vehicle, and / or cameras for documenting possible speeding violations, are limited to the monitoring units. The base units, which are significantly more cost-effective in comparison, can therefore be installed in large numbers at any location at relatively low cost.

[0010] The system is therefore cost-effective and flexible in terms of both acquisition and ongoing operation.

[0011] For example, after installing the stationary base units, speed checks can be conducted at changing locations without police involvement. For this purpose, the cost-effective base units, preferably in the form of a platform embedded in the ground, can be installed on smaller streets where a conventional stationary speed measurement system might not have been installed due to the high cost of the monitoring unit. In this way, traffic safety enforcement can be extended to small communities and towns without significant additional costs, offering new safety aspects in these locations as well.

[0012] In addition to speed control, the system according to the invention can also be used for general traffic data collection at various locations. For example, it can measure how many cars are driving on a road, how much heavy goods vehicle is leaving a road, how many pedestrians are walking on a sidewalk, or when the statistically best time to set up a construction site is. Planning offices can thus obtain valid data on road usage, which can be categorized by user (car, truck, bicycle, pedestrian), thus enabling efficient road planning or effective traffic calming measures.

[0013] The flexible system can also be expanded at any time to include additional locations of base units permanently installed in the area and, if necessary, additional monitoring units.

[0014] It is particularly advantageous if lockable securing means are arranged on each base unit and / or on each monitoring unit attached to it, which reliably prevent unauthorized loosening of the attachment and thus also unauthorized removal of the monitoring unit from the base unit.

[0015] A particularly simple automatic alignment of the monitoring units can be achieved by the alignment means comprising positively interacting elements on the fastening devices of the monitoring units, on the one hand, and on the mounting devices of the base units, on the other hand, which allow a monitoring unit to be attached to a base unit exclusively in the previously defined basic alignment. Attachment in a misalignment deviating from this is then reliably prevented due to the non-matching positively engaging elements.

[0016] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, each base unit is connected to a power source, and each base unit and each monitoring unit are provided with interacting electrical interfaces, via which a monitoring unit attached to a base unit is connected to the power source. Alternatively, the monitoring units can each have an integrated power source, in particular a rechargeable battery, for power supply.

[0017] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the monitoring unit can comprise a communication interface for wirelessly and / or wired transmission of data from the traffic monitored by the monitoring unit to a central storage unit and / or data required for traffic monitoring from a central storage unit to the monitoring unit. This communication interface can be used to establish wireless and / or wired communication with a central storage unit, such as a database on a central server. In particular, this communication interface can interact with a suitable interface of the base units.Via the communication interface, data from the traffic monitored by the monitoring unit, for example, data from vehicles detected traveling at an impermissibly high speed at a base unit location, can be transmitted to the central storage unit, where it can be evaluated or further processed. Likewise, data required for traffic monitoring, for example, the maximum permitted speed at a base unit location, can be transmitted from the central storage unit to the monitoring unit. Alternatively or in addition, data on detected vehicles can also be stored in a storage device within the monitoring unit and retrieved from there at a later time.

[0018] In order to be able to work independently of optical and radar-based measuring systems, it is proposed to connect the base units to induction loops or piezo cables that are embedded in an adjacent road surface, whereby the base units and monitoring units are provided with matching interfaces via which signals generated when driving over the induction loops or piezo cables are transmitted to a monitoring unit attached to the base unit.

[0019] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the base units are each at least partially covered by a lockable cover formed by a hinged or removable lid, as long as no monitoring unit is mounted thereon. The lid preferably serves to cover the fastening device and / or any interfaces present thereon to prevent damage from environmental influences or persons.

[0020] The lockable cover can cover the mounting device of a base unit and / or any interfaces present on it.

[0021] It is also particularly advantageous if the monitoring unit includes at least one sensor for detecting malfunctions. This sensor detects, in particular, the ingress of water, vibrations, changes in position, and / or tampering with the monitoring unit, and transmits corresponding signals to a service center via a transmitter. In the event of malfunctions detected by the sensors, corresponding acoustic and / or visual warning signals can also be issued directly on-site at the monitoring unit.

[0022] According to a further advantageous embodiment of the invention, the monitoring unit comprises a user interface for authenticating an operator, in particular a device for entering a code, wherein the monitoring unit is only switched on or off after successful authentication. The user interface, which may in particular comprise a device for entering a code (PIN input field), can advantageously be arranged behind a lockable flap to protect it from damage.

[0023] It is particularly advantageous if the monitoring unit comprises means for detecting the current position, in particular a GPS sensor, wherein the position data are used to retrieve data required for monitoring traffic at the location of the current base unit from an internal or external storage unit and / or are stored together with data of the traffic monitored by the monitoring unit.

[0024] According to a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the individual monitoring units are also modular in design. They each comprise two modules that can be releasably attached to one another. A first module contains the components required for traffic monitoring, which include, in particular, elements of an optical or radar-based speed measurement system and preferably one or more cameras.A second module, detachably connected to the first module, comprises the fastening device for detachably fastening the monitoring unit to the mounting device of a base unit, as well as—if present—the interfaces provided for power supply and / or communication with a central storage unit and / or sensors provided for detecting malfunctions, if present, and / or a user interface, if present, and / or means for detecting the current position. Drive means, if present, for automatically aligning the monitoring unit, with the associated control unit, can also be arranged in the further module.

[0025] All of the advantageous features described above can - unless explicitly stated otherwise - be provided either only on individual, but preferably on all base units or monitoring units of the system.

[0026] The present invention further relates to a method for traffic monitoring using at least one mobile monitoring unit with which data on vehicle traffic, in particular data on the speed of motor vehicles, can be acquired. The mobile monitoring unit is temporarily and detachably attached to a base unit selected from a plurality of base units permanently connected to the respective environment. Alignment means for automatically aligning the monitoring unit according to a previously set basic alignment are arranged on the monitoring unit and / or on the base unit. This method is preferably carried out using the system described above.

[0027] Further advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from the following description of a preferred embodiment of a speed monitoring system.

[0028] In this exemplary embodiment, the system consists of three modules that can be exchanged independently of each other. A first module contains the technology for detecting and measuring vehicles. A second module contains the necessary hardware and software for establishing a connection to the network, as well as sensors for measuring damage, for example, caused by water ingress. The first and second modules together form a monitoring unit.

[0029] A third module is a base plate firmly anchored in the environment, which provides power and / or access to a communications network (landline). This base plate forms one of several base units.

[0030] The three-part design allows the modules to be replaced individually in the event of an update or damage.

[0031] The first module contains all the sensors needed to measure and document speed. It also includes cameras that take multiple photos of the area around the monitoring unit in case of damage or shock.

[0032] At the bottom of the first module is an interface to the second module. There is also a ring of threaded holes there, which serve to create a stable connection between the first two modules.

[0033] The second module connects the first module to the third module. It contains a motor for aligning the first module, a GPS sensor for detecting the position, hardware for connecting to the internet (Wi-Fi, mobile network, DSL), and position and humidity sensors.

[0034] The second module automatically connects to the other two modules on the top and bottom. Once connected, the parts can no longer be moved.

[0035] The second module also contains software for system control and communication. The entire system can be operated remotely via a platform. The third module anchors the entire system in the ground and provides the required power and, if necessary, a connection for data transmission, such as a DSL connection.

[0036] When the two modules forming a monitoring unit are not connected, the platform can be enclosed by a waterproof panel. The platform is the most cost-effective part of the system and can therefore be used in the largest number.

[0037] After an initial basic alignment of a monitoring unit on a platform, a technician proceeds as follows for the subsequent temporary installation of a monitoring unit on this platform: The waterproof screwed cover plate of the platform forming the third module is removed.

[0038] The second module is then placed onto the platform using pre-designed recesses. It is supplied with power directly via an interface. At the push of a button, the second module connects permanently to the platform and establishes an internet connection.

[0039] The first module is then placed onto the second module using pre-designed recesses. Correct placement supplies the first module with power.

[0040] Opening a service hatch on the second module provides access to a USB port and a PIN entry field. After entering a PIN, the second module determines its location, retrieves the associated radar information from a central database, aligns the monitoring unit's radar system housed in the first module, and permanently connects it to the second module.

[0041] The operation of the monitoring and the security systems provided here start after entering another TAN and closing the service hatch.

[0042] After the temporary traffic monitoring has ended, the technician will dismantle the monitoring unit as follows: First, the technician requests a PIN (TAN) that authorizes them to dismantle the monitoring unit. After receiving the PIN (preferably on a mobile phone), they have a limited time period of, say, half a minute to enter it into the PIN entry field. Only if this is entered in time will an alarm not be triggered when the monitoring unit is dismantled.

[0043] By entering the TAN to dismantle the monitoring unit, all connections are released, preferably automatically. The two modules of the monitoring unit can then be removed for loading, and the cover plate can be reattached to the platform.

[0044] The security system used in this system has several sensors, cameras and microphones.

[0045] If the shock sensor or position sensor is triggered, all cameras and microphones are immediately activated. The recordings are stored on an internal hard drive and on a cloud storage. A corresponding signal is also automatically transmitted to the relevant authorities.

[0046] Furthermore, the second module continuously checks all hardware components and automatically reports possible faults to a supporting service.

Claims

[1] Traffic monitoring system, comprising at least two base units permanently connected to the environment and at least one mobile monitoring unit for recording traffic data, in particular data on the speed of motor vehicles, each base unit having a mounting device and each monitoring unit having a fastening device, wherein the fastening device of each monitoring unit is designed to be detachably fastened to the mounting device of a base unit, and wherein alignment means are arranged on each monitoring unit and / or on each base unit for automatically aligning the monitoring unit according to a previously set basic alignment. [2] System according to claim 1, characterized bythat lockable securing means are arranged on each monitoring unit and / or on each base unit to prevent unauthorized removal of a monitoring unit attached to a base unit. [3] System according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the alignment means comprise positively interacting elements on the fastening devices and on the mounting devices, which enable a monitoring unit to be fastened to a base unit only in an orientation corresponding to the previously defined basic orientation. [4] System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that each base unit is connected to a power source, and that each base unit and each monitoring unit are provided with cooperating electrical interfaces via which a monitoring unit attached to a base unit is connected to the power source. [5] System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the monitoring unit comprises a communication interface for the wireless and / or wired transmission of data of the traffic monitored by the monitoring unit to a central storage unit and / or of data required for monitoring the traffic from a central storage unit to the monitoring unit. [6] System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that at least one base unit is connected to induction loops or piezo cables embedded in an adjacent road surface, wherein the base unit and at least one monitoring unit are provided with interacting interfaces via which signals detected by the induction loops or piezo cables are transmitted to a monitoring unit attached to the base unit. [7] System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the base units are each at least partially covered by a lockable cover formed by a hinged or removable lid. [8] System according to claim 7, characterized by that the lockable cover covers the mounting device of a base unit and / or any interfaces present thereon. [9] System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the monitoring unit comprises at least one sensor for detecting malfunctions, in particular the ingress of water, vibrations, changes in position and / or manipulation of the monitoring unit. [10] System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the monitoring unit comprises a user interface for authenticating an operator, in particular a device for entering a code, wherein the monitoring unit is switched on or off only after successful authentication. [11] System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the monitoring unit comprises means for detecting the current position, in particular a GPS sensor, wherein the position data are used to retrieve data required for monitoring traffic at the location of the current base unit from an internal or external storage unit and / or are stored together with data of the traffic monitored by the monitoring unit. [12] System according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the monitoring units are of modular construction and each comprise a first module which contains the components required for monitoring traffic, in particular elements of an optical or radar-based speed measuring system and preferably a camera, and a second module which is detachably connected to the first module and which has the fastening device for detachably fastening the monitoring unit to the mounting device of a base unit and the interfaces which may be provided for the power supply and / or for communication with a central storage unit and / or sensors which may be provided for detecting malfunctions and / or a user interface which may be provided and / or means which may be provided for detecting the current position. [13] Method for traffic monitoring by means of at least one mobile monitoring unit with which data on the traffic of vehicles, in particular data on the speed of motor vehicles, can be recorded, wherein the mobile monitoring unit is temporarily detachably fastened to a base unit selected from a plurality of base units permanently connected to the respective environment, wherein alignment means for automatically aligning the monitoring unit according to a previously set basic alignment are arranged on the monitoring unit and / or on the base unit.