Real-time method for verifying the configuration of an individual motor vehicle

Abstract

Real-time method for verifying the configuration of an individual motor vehicle (1), comprising at least the following steps performed in the order mentioned by a data acquisition device (2): a. in response to a request for the individual motor vehicle (1), digital recording of an identity and actual location (3) of the individual motor vehicle (1); b. Determining the current configuration of the identified motor vehicle (1); c. for the actual location (3), determining at least one registration requirement valid at the time of registration of the identified motor vehicle (1) and / or currently valid; d. based on the identified at least one approval requirement, creating a target configuration (4); e. Comparing the determined actual configuration with the created target configuration (4); and f. Outputting information to a user (5) if the actual configuration differs from the target configuration (4), wherein in one step g. a permanent location (6) is determined where the identified motor vehicle (1) was mainly located prior to the request.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a real-time method for checking a configuration of an individual motor vehicle, a diagnostic terminal for performing such a real-time method for checking a motor vehicle, a motor vehicle for performing such a real-time method by means of a data acquisition device, a computer program and a computer program product for performing such a real-time method.

[0002] Motor vehicles are developed and delivered according to the applicable national regulations, which define their intended use. These regulations cover aspects such as emissions, range calculations, carbon dioxide levels, material conformity, noise levels, and safety. Laws have validity periods and change over the years in all countries worldwide. Motor vehicles are delivered to the countries for which they were developed, in accordance with the latest technological standards. For example, a motor vehicle manufactured for the USA may not be delivered to China under current legislation. A motor vehicle owner may face (sometimes unexpected) disadvantages from using a vehicle in a country for which it was not manufactured (i.e., outside its defined area of ​​use).For example, fuel incompatibility can trigger warnings in the vehicle's cockpit, or unsuitable voltages at charging stations can impair the onboard charging infrastructure (such as the high-voltage battery). This necessitates visits to a workshop and may result in warranty claims against the vehicle manufacturer.

[0003] US 2002 / 0087240A1 relates to a method for documenting data for a vehicle, wherein the data is stored in a data storage device (2) in the vehicle (1), the data in the data storage device (2) is updated when changes occur, and this data is transmitted via a wireless data transmission device (4) to a control center (5) outside the vehicle (1), wherein the control center (5), triggered by a trigger signal, forwards the data to a configuration documentation server (7), and the data is stored in a database (6), in particular in chronological order and broken down by products, in order to record the configuration standard outside the vehicle (1) for the exchange of products on the vehicle (1).

[0004] DE 10 2016 015 401 A1 relates to a method for configuring vehicle control electronics (2) with parameter sets (P1...Pn) which are individually configured to realize different properties of the vehicle (1). This method is characterized in that several parameter sets (P1...Pn) are stored in the vehicle control electronics (2), whereby one of the parameter sets (P1...Pn) is selected based on a geographical position of the vehicle (1) and / or individually configured taking into account local legal requirements.

[0005] Based on this, the present invention aims to overcome, at least partially, the disadvantages known from the prior art. The features of the invention are defined in the independent claims, for which advantageous embodiments are shown in the dependent claims. The features of the claims can be combined in any technically meaningful way, whereby the explanations in the following description and features from the figures, which comprise supplementary embodiments of the invention, can also be used.

[0006] The invention relates to a real-time method for checking the configuration of an individual motor vehicle, comprising at least the following steps performed in the stated order by a data acquisition device: a. in response to a request for an individual motor vehicle, digital recording of the identity and current location of the individual motor vehicle; b. Determining the current configuration of the identified motor vehicle; c. for the actual location, determining at least one registration requirement that was valid at the time of registration of the identified motor vehicle and / or is currently valid; d. based on the identified at least one approval requirement, creation of a target configuration; e. Comparing the determined actual configuration with the created target configuration; and f. Outputting information to a user when the actual configuration differs from the target configuration.

[0007] Unless explicitly stated otherwise, ordinal numbers used in the preceding and following descriptions serve solely for unambiguous differentiation and do not indicate any order or ranking of the components referred to. An ordinal number greater than one does not necessarily imply the presence of another such component.

[0008] The real-time process operates within a timeframe that is sufficiently short, in the expectations of a user, between the start of the real-time process (request in step a.) and its result (output in step f.). For example, the timeframe is a maximum of 10 s [ten seconds], preferably less than 5 s, preferably approximately 1 s. Alternatively, intermediate results (e.g., output of the determined current location) of the real-time process are output within the aforementioned timeframe, preferably only when accompanied by machine-generated intermediate queries to the user (e.g., a request to verify the current location or to override the result).It should be noted that the real-time procedure is executed entirely automatically and relies on readily available, computer-readable data and information, which may have been created or provided manually or automatically. It should also be noted that the steps of the real-time procedure and / or necessary operations for processing data and information and / or calculations for the real-time procedure do not necessarily have to be performed on a data acquisition device. Rather, at least the explicitly mentioned steps a. through f. and g., as well as any repetition that may be performed, are initiated and preferentially monitored by the data acquisition device. This will be explained in more detail below.

[0009] To initiate the real-time process, or to trigger step a., a request is first made, for example, by a vehicle owner or a mechanic in a workshop. In the latter case, this is executed automatically, or as a selectable option on a human-machine interface, directly upon registration of the individual vehicle in a (digital) management system and / or upon commencement of vehicle diagnostics using a diagnostic device. In one embodiment, information is output in step f.', even if no deviation is detected in step e.

[0010] In one embodiment, this real-time procedure is executed optionally or always, and the manufacturer and / or a fleet manager of the individual vehicle in question receives at least the information according to step f. The latter occurs, for example, within the context of IoT monitoring. For instance, the request is triggered regularly in or by the vehicle itself (i.e., externally) and / or in response to a message from an IoT component, thus making a request for step a. In one embodiment, the owner, mechanic, manufacturer, and / or fleet manager only becomes aware of the execution of the real-time procedure if the information according to step f. is issued due to a deviation detected in step e. In one embodiment, corresponding information is output to a register, preferably (according to step f.') also in a case where a deviation is detected in step e.No deviation is detected. Such a register is maintained, for example, by the warranty provider (e.g., the manufacturer) in order to classify subsequent warranty claims with this information, for example, by means of a history of the individual vehicle's use, to determine that the defect in the vehicle in question (with a sufficiently high probability) was caused by a predominant use outside the intended (target) area of ​​use and that the defect was thus caused by this.

[0011] An individual motor vehicle can be identified, for example, via its unique (digital or analog) vehicle identification number. Alternatively or additionally (for plausibility purposes), the identity of the individual motor vehicle is determined and thus recorded via its (digitally or analogously) identifiable or recordable components (for example, their unique identification numbers) or their combination.

[0012] In one embodiment, the actual location of an individual motor vehicle is its current location, i.e., where the vehicle is currently situated. In another embodiment, the actual location is the place where the vehicle is primarily operated (i.e., its actual area of ​​use). In this case, the current location (in a different area of ​​use) might be, for example, a short-term trip abroad (an area of ​​use with at least one different registration requirement). In one embodiment, unless a specific request is made or a deviation is known or likely due to other circumstances, the current location is used as the actual location.In one embodiment, the location to be used as the current location (for example, as a selection option for a user, preferably displayed on a human-machine interface of the data acquisition device) is defined by the user. Preferably, in such a case, the current location is still determined and compared with the input, whereby any discrepancy and / or both pieces of information are displayed or stored in a register.

[0013] The current location thus determines the current or the applicable area of ​​use of the vehicle in question. At least one (individual) registration requirement is assigned to this area of ​​use.

[0014] In step b., the current configuration is determined, preferably using an externally maintained parts list or operating software. This is, for example, linked to the vehicle's identity. Alternatively or additionally, the current configuration is verified by recording the components or operating software actually present in the vehicle. For example, this step also involves comparing the externally maintained current configuration with the configuration found in the vehicle to identify incorrectly installed components or incorrectly used or configured operating software, such as that resulting from a past repair abroad or by an unqualified or uncertified maintenance provider.

[0015] The registration requirement determined in step c. depends on the area of ​​use, which in turn depends on the current location. However, a specific point in time may also be crucial. This is the case, for example, if there has been a change in the law for the area of ​​use that necessitates (or would have necessitated) a retrofit of the vehicle in question, or conversely, if a grace period allows the continued (but currently non-compliant) use of the vehicle in question. In one implementation or scenario, both the date of registration of the identified vehicle and the current date must be considered, for example, if such a grace period applies only to vehicles of a specific year or registration date.

[0016] As explained at the beginning and previously, registration requirements can change over the years. This can potentially alter the target configuration for the identified vehicle. Typically, due to the multitude of registration requirements, individual (initial) customer requests, or production bottlenecks, the target configuration is determined by a complex algorithm. It would be unreasonable and cost-inefficient for a person to have to manually compile this individual target configuration. This can be achieved through digital linking, preferably using a deep learning approach that has learned to retrieve the information and data relevant to this process, such as determining the vehicle's identity, current location, and / or target configuration.

[0017] Once the actual configuration and the target configuration are known, they are compared in step e. If they are identical, it is irrelevant whether the vehicle in question was used in the originally intended area of ​​use. However, in a preferred embodiment, this result is nevertheless output (in step f.') or stored in a register.

[0018] It should be noted that in one embodiment, no knowledge of a comprehensive target configuration is available. Rather, this is determined within the framework of the real-time process, for example, by checking in each individual case whether an actual component and / or an actual operating software, or alternatively a (sub-)combination of several actual components and / or actual operating software of the individual vehicle, conforms to at least one approval requirement valid for the current location.

[0019] Finally, if a deviation has been detected in step e., information regarding this is displayed to a user in step f. (or even without a deviation in a step f.'). In a simple embodiment, this information is merely a (visual and / or acoustic) indication that a deviation exists (preferably specifying its exact cause and / or location). In a preferred embodiment, a consequence of the deviation is also displayed, for example, regarding at least one approval requirement of the applicable area of ​​use (for the current location) or regarding the (expiration or limitation) of a warranty claim.

[0020] In an advantageous embodiment, the target usage area is determined based on the ascertained actual configuration and this information is output.

[0021] It is further proposed that in step g., preferably integrated into step a. or triggered by step f., a permanent location is determined where the identified motor vehicle was mainly located prior to the request. where this information is preferably output to a user.

[0022] In one case, the owner occasionally travels abroad with their (identified) vehicle, i.e., in a jurisdiction with at least one different registration requirement. This behavior should not, for example, invalidate warranty claims, even if the vehicle cannot meet the requirements abroad or if there is a risk of, or actual impairment of, the vehicle's functionality. In another case, the owner travels abroad so frequently with the identified vehicle (e.g., due to work) that their primary residence (e.g., in terms of time) is located there. In both cases, a permanent location, rather than a current location, should be used as the basis for calculation.It should be noted that sometimes it is also about giving the owner (or user) an opportunity to react appropriately to possible impairments of functionality or warranty claims, for example by refueling with a fuel of a different category than in the intended area of ​​use of the identified vehicle or by avoiding certain charging stations at the permanent location.

[0023] In an advantageous embodiment, this permanent location (and, if applicable, other locations, such as the current location) is recorded and processed using data analysis, for example, supported by a deep learning approach, which also estimates refueling and driving behavior based on, for example, big data approaches. For instance, contrary to a speed limit in a given area, there is a common practice of driving significantly faster because such violations are known to be insufficiently penalized. Alternatively or additionally, road conditions vary considerably, resulting in significantly greater stress on the wheel suspension. While this is not relevant, for example, during a simple transit journey (on highways), experience shows that it varies considerably when driving in the surrounding area or even regionally.

[0024] In one embodiment, the permanent location is determined before the real-time process begins, for example, selectable as a (desired) option for a user via a human-machine interface of the data acquisition device. In another embodiment, a permanent location is determined only based on a deviation identified in step e, preferably triggered by the information according to step f. In the latter case, it could turn out that the vehicle in question is primarily operating within the intended area of ​​use.

[0025] The information regarding the vehicle's permanent location may be incorrect in some respect and should therefore be disclosed so that a correction can be made. Alternatively or additionally, it is important for statistical purposes, or for a manufacturer and / or fleet manager, to be able to recognize that a configuration may no longer be offered in the future, resulting in unacceptably discrepancies between the target configurations of the frequently used operating areas. Therefore, it is also desirable to transmit information about movement in other operating areas (with at least one different registration requirement) to the user, manufacturer, and / or fleet manager, for example, by recording it in a corresponding register.

[0026] In a further advantageous embodiment of the real-time method, it is proposed that the determined permanent location be used as the actual location, preferably in a repetition after a run of the real-time method from step a. to step f. with the current location of the identified motor vehicle as the actual location.

[0027] It is proposed here that, at least in the first run of the real-time procedure, the determined permanent location be used as the basis for the verification (see the preceding description). This is generally the relevant actual location for any deviation identified in step e. It should be noted that in one case, the current location may correspond to the target area of ​​use, i.e., the registration requirement fulfilled by the vehicle in question, but the vehicle is primarily operated (e.g., over time) in a different area of ​​use.

[0028] Conversely, it is possible that the current location is assigned to a different usage area than the intended usage area, but that the vehicle in question spent a sufficiently short time within the usage area of ​​the current location during a past operating period. It should be noted that a significant stay also includes situations that (determined, for example, using a deep learning approach) suggest that the vehicle is always or frequently taken across the state border and thus into a different usage area to refuel (e.g., to save costs). This behavior does not always, or even usually, result in a long stay in the different usage area, but it allows the conclusion that the vehicle was not operated (i.e., refueled) in accordance with the intended usage area, for example, that it was refueled with an unauthorized fuel.In one embodiment, external data is also used for the movement history, such as payment flows (for example at a gas station), which can be attributed to the owner and is preferably also secured by recording the geolocation of the motor vehicle at the time of the payment flow in question in a time-attributable manner.

[0029] In an advantageous embodiment, the real-time procedure is repeated if the current location and the actual location do not match, preferably regardless of which location was initially assumed to be the actual location. For example, the repetition is triggered only as an option (e.g., via a human-machine interface of the data acquisition device) upon a user request. Alternatively, it is performed automatically. In one embodiment, the result of the real-time procedure is output exclusively to a manufacturer and / or fleet manager.The operator has the option to learn from this result solely about the behavior of their customers and / or, without knowledge of this inspection on the part of the customer or owner, or even without the knowledge of a person with whom they are in direct interpersonal contact (for example, a mechanic in a workshop), to act as a gesture of goodwill and / or to note it for a future possible case (after providing an appropriate recommendation to the owner of the vehicle in question).

[0030] In a further advantageous embodiment of the real-time method, it is proposed that the user be a manufacturer and / or fleet manager of the identified motor vehicle, and / or The actual configuration is determined exclusively via indirect or direct electronic communication with IoT components of the identified motor vehicle.

[0031] With the manufacturer and / or fleet manager as the user, the real-time process is initiated remotely, for example, without direct line of sight, by the manufacturer and / or fleet manager of the vehicle in question. In an implemented sequence, all or specific repair or maintenance measures (for example, those involving unexpectedly rapid wear or component failure compared to a reference group) are triggered automatically. For example, the repair request is entered into a data acquisition device, automatically starting the real-time process. This serves not only to safeguard the interests of the warranty provider but also, and perhaps primarily, to ensure good customer service by providing the vehicle owner with recommendations on how to avoid such damage or warnings in the future.

[0032] Determining the current configuration solely via IoT components provides a simple and convenient method for identifying deviations from the target configuration. During maintenance monitoring by a manufacturer and / or fleet manager or workshop on behalf of the owner and / or the manufacturer or fleet manager, the information from the communicating IoT components can simultaneously be used for these real-time processes. In one embodiment, this data is accessed indirectly, for example, to retrieve a spare parts history, because the currently installed IoT components could distort the perception of the intended operating environment, as the vehicle in question is no longer in its original condition.

[0033] IoT components are those components that can communicate with an information network, such as the internet or a proprietary network, either independently or via an associated control unit or central unit. IoT components are often able to monitor their own wear and tear. It is important to know the individual component's identity and when and / or how often it was first used. In some cases, an IoT component is even capable of passively reading data that allows for the detection or estimation of movement or location patterns. This is possible, for example, using a geolocation sensor (such as GPS [Global Positioning System], Galileo, or BeiDou) or a SIM profile.[Subscriber Identity Module] of a mobile service provider or a uniquely identifiable mobile antenna (via triangulation). This also makes it highly likely that fraudulent attempts can be prevented.

[0034] In an advantageous embodiment of the real-time method, it is further proposed that, preferably after a repeated run of the real-time method with another actual location, the user is given a recommendation for action derived from step e. together with step f. The recommended course of action preferably includes at least one of the following pieces of information: - Installation or replacement of a different part of the identified motor vehicle, thereby making the motor vehicle compliant with at least one identified registration requirement; - Specification of a supplementary operating regulation for the owner of the identified motor vehicle according to its actual location; and - Issuing an operating ban for the identified motor vehicle at its current location.

[0035] In some cases, replacing or retrofitting a compliant component is possible, thereby resolving the underlying problem. This measure then brings the vehicle in question into compliance with at least one registration requirement for its intended area of ​​use.

[0036] In some cases, a repair is not possible, not economical, or simply unnecessary (for example, to avoid unnecessarily diminishing the value of a collector's item), and an adjustment of the owner's behavior is sufficient. This could include, for example, adhering to a reduced speed limit, using a specific type of fuel, avoiding certain charging stations, avoiding regions with particular road conditions, and other behavioral changes.

[0037] In some cases, it is not possible to operate the vehicle in question within its current area of ​​use, at least not without following a recommended course of action (such as the one mentioned above). In such cases, it is necessary to issue an operating ban, for example, by informing a mechanic or inspection engineer that a registration sticker cannot be issued (e.g., due to impermissibly high carbon dioxide emissions).

[0038] In a further advantageous embodiment of the real-time method, it is proposed that the approval requirement for at least one actual location, preferably the target configuration, is maintained and serviced by an external body. preferably in a data storage location within a proprietary and / or public information network.

[0039] At least one registration requirement is subject to change over the years. It is relatively simple to track these changes, as well as their consequences for specific usage areas depending on the initial registration of a motor vehicle, centrally (i.e., externally) and / or to modify usage area classifications. This can be achieved with very little effort and / or with little or no human intervention, for example, using an API (Application Programming Interface).Assuming that the condition of a motor vehicle is monitored at sufficiently short intervals, for example several times a day as part of maintenance monitoring in conjunction with an IoT application, or once a year during an operational check, the real-time method proposed here is particularly advantageous because each individual motor vehicle can itself, or with the help of a data acquisition device, compile the information relevant to it and generate the result. It should be noted that the area of ​​use does not necessarily correspond to national borders, but is defined, for example, according to international agreements or coincidental similarities with at least one approval requirement.Alternatively, the usage area is always defined nationally, and a verification of the actual location within the real-time procedure takes place for each relevant usage area in a separate run, i.e., possibly several times.

[0040] For example, the external entity is a government agency or a service provider for the vehicle manufacturer and / or fleet manager. The digitized registration request might be stored in a data repository belonging to a government agency, manufacturer, and / or fleet manager, or in an external data repository with access rights (e.g., read-only) for the user of the real-time process. In one implementation, the registration request is unsorted and usually distributed (e.g., country-specific) across many different, separate data repositories. However, due to the generally slow or infrequent nature of changes, it is possible for a small team of employees to centrally manage this. Alternatively or additionally, only the specific APIs and / or other access links are kept up to date, possibly also automatically.For example, legislative changes affecting at least one vehicle registration requirement are published on an official website. For instance, proprietary legal opinions are prepared that define a registration requirement relevant to a manufacturer, fleet manager, mechanic, and / or vehicle owner.

[0041] According to another aspect, a diagnostic terminal for testing a motor vehicle is proposed, featuring a computer, a human-machine interface and a vehicle interface to a motor vehicle, wherein the computer of the diagnostic terminal is connected via the vehicle interface to an individual motor vehicle and is configured to execute the real-time procedure according to an embodiment as described above, where, preferably, the information according to step f is output via the human-machine interface.

[0042] The diagnostic terminal is a possible data acquisition device, according to the previously described real-time procedure, for checking the configuration of an individual motor vehicle. It is used, for example, in a workshop or at a manufacturer's premises, preferably as a proprietary device developed for a specific motor vehicle or a class or brand of motor vehicles. The diagnostic terminal is designed to form an interface between the motor vehicle and a human user (usually a mechanic) in the immediate vicinity of the vehicle. The diagnostic terminal has a human-machine interface, such as a (touch) screen and / or a speaker and microphone, to enable communication between the human and the motor vehicle.The vehicle interface is designed for wired or wireless communication with the (software-side) vehicle infrastructure (via a data interface of the vehicle in question), thus enabling the diagnostic terminal to be connected to the vehicle. In a preferred embodiment, the diagnostic terminal is configured for maintenance purposes or repair analysis. In one embodiment, the real-time process is initiated directly upon connection to a vehicle, i.e., the connection is interpreted as a request to trigger step a. (or step g.). Alternatively or additionally, this is offered to the user as a selection option on the human-machine interface. The computer typically comprises a processor and / or a data storage device, with reference to the following description of a computer serving as a purely exemplary example.

[0043] In another embodiment, the user of the diagnostic device is not simultaneously the user of the real-time method, and the real-time method is either not executed at all, or only in an optional embodiment and / or only partially executed on the diagnostic device. For example, only the connection of the diagnostic device is considered a request for the real-time method, and the rest is executed externally and / or without integrating the diagnostic device or without outputting to the human-machine interface of the diagnostic device. This serves, for example, as background monitoring of the vehicle in question by the manufacturer and / or fleet manager.In one embodiment, the method is also carried out by an authority or one of its service providers as the user, for example by informing the owner of the motor vehicle in question and / or the workshop or mechanic who uses or is assigned the diagnostic terminal device in question.

[0044] According to another aspect, a motor vehicle is proposed, featuring a computer, a data interface for a data acquisition device, and IoT components. wherein the motor vehicle's computer is connected via the data interface to a data acquisition device for executing the real-time procedure according to an embodiment as described above, preferably the computer is an on-board computer or includes the function of an on-board computer.

[0045] The motor vehicle comprises a propulsion system and is driven by a drivetrain with a (for example, electric) drive motor as a torque source, a (transmission) gearbox, and at least one drive wheel, for example, for use on a road, preferably for transporting people and / or goods. The motor vehicle often also features a passenger cabin.

[0046] At least one data interface is configured for connecting a diagnostic device. Alternatively or additionally, the data interface is configured for communication with an information network or a proprietary communication network, preferably within the framework of V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) or a similar approach, for example, using a mobile network service provider. The data acquisition device capable of communicating with the vehicle via the data interface is thus, for example, a diagnostic device or an entity belonging to an external user (such as a manufacturer, fleet manager, and / or government agency).

[0047] As previously explained, IoT components are those vehicle components that are equipped for communication, either directly (via a data interface, preferably wireless) or via a central unit with a central data interface. They are designed for self-analysis or enable an analysis of operation by providing (sensor) data, preferably regarding their wear level, expected lifespan, and / or probability of failure.In one embodiment, indirect measurements or conclusions from the (sensor) data are also possible, for example in the case of a temperature deviation from a target temperature or target range, the cause of which is not in the IoT component itself, but in a neighboring (for example, an unwanted overheating) and / or temperature-regulating component (for example, a circulation pump of a thermal management module).

[0048] In one embodiment, the computer is the on-board computer of the vehicle in question. Alternatively, the computer is a separate unit or distributed throughout the vehicle. In another embodiment, a high-performance computer is provided, preferably one that also performs the function of an on-board computer.

[0049] According to another aspect, a computer program is proposed, comprehensive a computer program code, wherein the computer program code is executable on at least one computer such that the at least one computer can execute it. is prompted to carry out the procedure according to an embodiment as described above, wherein at least one unit of the computer: - in a data acquisition device, preferably a diagnostic terminal device according to an embodiment as described above; - in an on-board computer of a motor vehicle, preferably according to an embodiment as described above, and / or - in a cloud and / or in an edge device, is arranged.

[0050] The real-time method described here for verifying the configuration of an individual motor vehicle is implemented in a computer according to this embodiment. The computer-implemented method is stored as computer program code, wherein, when executed on a computer, for example comprising a data storage device and a processor, the computer causes the computer to execute the method according to an embodiment as described above.

[0051] The computer-implemented method is realized, for example, by a computer program, wherein the computer program comprises the computer program code, and wherein the computer program code, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to execute the method according to an embodiment as described above. Computer program code is synonymously defined as one or more instructions or commands that cause a computer to perform a series of operations, which, for example, represent an algorithm and / or other processing methods.

[0052] The computer program is preferably executable, either partially or completely, on an onboard computer and / or on a separate control unit. The term "computer" is used here synonymously with devices known from the prior art. A computer therefore comprises one or more general-purpose processors (CPUs) or microprocessors, RISC processors, GPUs, and / or DSPs. The computer includes, for example, additional elements such as memory interfaces or communication interfaces. Alternatively or additionally, the terms refer to a device capable of executing a provided or integrated program, preferably using a standardized programming language (e.g., C++, JavaScript, or Python), and / or controlling and / or accessing data storage devices and / or other devices such as input and output interfaces.The term "computer" also refers to a multitude of processors or a multitude of (sub)computers that are interconnected via physical connections and / or other means of communication (e.g., OTA) and may share one or more other resources, such as data storage. Data storage, for example, is a hard disk drive (HDD) or non-volatile solid-state memory, such as ROM or flash memory (Flash EEPROM). Storage often comprises multiple individual physical units or is distributed across a multitude of separate devices, allowing access via data communication, such as packet data communication (e.g., according to the Internet Protocol [TCP / IP]).The latter is a decentralized solution, where the storage and processors of a large number of separate computers are used instead of a (single) central server or in addition to a central server.

[0053] It should be noted that the on-board computer of a motor vehicle is referred to here as a unit or as a functional representation of a (preferably powerful) computer.

[0054] According to another aspect, a computer program product is proposed, on which a computer program code is stored, wherein the computer program code is executable on at least one computer such that the at least one computer is caused to execute the method according to an embodiment as described above, wherein at least one unit of the computer: - in a data acquisition device, preferably a diagnostic terminal device according to an embodiment as described above; - in an on-board computer of a motor vehicle, preferably in an embodiment according to the above description, and / or - in a cloud and / or in an edge device, is arranged.

[0055] As a computer program product, comprising the computer program code described above, it is stored, for example, on a medium such as RAM, ROM, an SD card, a memory card, a flash memory card, or a disc, or on a server and can be downloaded. Once the computer program is made readable via a read unit, such as a drive and / or an installation, the contained computer program code and the method for segmenting objects with their own movement by a computer or in communication with a plurality of server units, for example, as described above, can be executed.

[0056] The invention described above is explained in detail below against the relevant technical background with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show preferred embodiments. The invention is in no way limited by the purely schematic drawings, although it should be noted that the drawings are not dimensionally accurate and are not suitable for defining size relationships. It is illustrated in Fig. 1 schematically an individual motor vehicle in an information network; Fig. 2. A schematic map showing areas of use; and Fig. 3. A flowchart of an exemplary sequence of the real-time procedure.

[0057] In Fig. Figure 1 schematically shows an individual motor vehicle 1 in an information network 11. An application of the real-time method for checking the configuration of an individual motor vehicle 1 is shown as an example. For a more detailed sequence, refer to the preceding and following descriptions (e.g., to...). Fig. 3) referred to. The motor vehicle 1, in its current configuration, comprises a powertrain 21 (here purely optionally on the rear axle) and other components (e.g., engine control, battery, control units), which are, for example, designed as IoT components 8. These are capable of communicating (digitally) with an external data acquisition device 2, either independently or via a central data interface 16. A computer 13 (e.g., encompassing the function of a classic on-board computer 17) with a processor 20 and a data storage device 10 is provided for executing or organizing such communication, but preferably not solely for this purpose.For example, the vehicle 1 is currently in a workshop (current location 7), and a mechanic (a potential user 5) is in direct communication with the IoT components 8 via his diagnostic device 12 (as a data acquisition device 2) through its vehicle interface 15 and / or via the central data interface 16 of the vehicle 1. The evaluation, and preferably also the information regarding a deviation from the target configuration 4, is displayed on the human-machine interface 14, here for example a screen, preferably with a touch function for human input or selection of the human as user 5.

[0058] Alternatively or additionally, a manufacturer and / or fleet manager, or even an authority or its service provider, assumes the role of user 5 in the real-time process by using a cloud 18 or an edge device 19. A computer 13 with data storage 10 and a processor 20 is provided for executing the real-time process and the resulting steps. There is usually no line of sight or wired or direct wireless communication connection between this user 5 and the individual vehicle 1. Instead, the infrastructure of an information network 11 is used, represented here purely as a representative example without being limited to this specific embodiment, by a satellite 22, which mediates the communication between user 5 (via the vehicle interface 15) and the vehicle 1 (for example, via the central data interface 16).Furthermore, an external entity 9 is shown here, which communicates directly (via a vehicle interface 15) or indirectly (via the respective data acquisition device 2) with the motor vehicle 1 or handles the associated questions of a data acquisition device 2 for the real-time procedure. The external entity 9 maintains the target configuration 4 or at least a registration requirement from which a target configuration 4 can be determined with the help of the data acquisition device 2 or a user 5. The external entity 9 is responsible for one usage area or country at a time or comprises a collection of registration requirements assigned to one of several usage areas.It should be noted that in one embodiment, none of the entities data acquisition device 2, user 5, motor vehicle 1, external body 9, or even manufacturer or fleet manager alone has knowledge of a target configuration 4. Rather, this is determined within the framework of the real-time process, for example, by checking in each individual case whether a component and / or operating software of the individual motor vehicle 1 complies with at least one approval requirement valid for the current location 3.

[0059] In Fig. Figure 2 schematically shows a map with usage areas. Above the broadly dashed line (for example, a national border) is a first usage area, and below it a second usage area, which differ from each other with regard to at least one licensing requirement. For example, the usage areas are each larger than the boundaries of individual nation-states. Here, an example movement history of an (individual) motor vehicle 1 is shown with a finely dashed line, which is located at the current location 7 at the time under consideration. The motor vehicle 1 has (as can be determined from the movement history) primarily been located at a permanent location 6 in the upper usage area. This is therefore the relevant actual location 3, which differs from the current location 7.For illustrative purposes only and without prejudice to the general public, the upper usage area is also the target usage area 23 of the (individual) motor vehicle 1. Therefore, the registration requirement applicable to this motor vehicle 1 is not the one valid at the current location 7, which is irrelevant for motor vehicle 1, but rather the correct one for target usage area 23. It should be noted that target usage area 23 is the usage area for which the motor vehicle 1 in question has been configured to meet at least one registration requirement of this target usage area 23. Alternatively, target usage area 23 is the usage area shown below. In this case, motor vehicle 1 would not primarily be operating within the corresponding usage area (for example, in terms of time).

[0060] In Fig.Figure 3 shows a flowchart of an exemplary sequence of the real-time procedure for verifying the configuration of an individual motor vehicle 1. It should be noted that this shows a single run of this real-time procedure, which may be the first or a later run, or may be performed concurrently with another run. In the variant shown here (purely optional, therefore shown with dashed lines), a permanent location 6 is determined in step g. (here, purely optionally integrated into step a.), where the identified motor vehicle 1 was primarily located prior to the request. This permanent location 6 is then recorded as the actual location 3, at least in the subsequent run in step a. The real-time procedure is triggered by an external request, such as a maintenance or repair request. In step b.The current configuration, for example, an existing parts list and / or operating software, of the identified vehicle 1 is determined. It should be noted that for step b., it is not necessary that the current location 3 has already been recorded, and therefore step b. can be executed (e.g., in parallel) simply after the identity of the vehicle 1 in question has been recorded. In step c., at least one registration requirement valid at the time of registration of the identified vehicle 1 and / or currently valid is determined for the current location 3. Subsequently, in step d., a target configuration 4, i.e., for example, a target parts list and / or operating software, is determined based on this at least one registration requirement.

[0061] The necessary data and analyses are now available. In one embodiment, these are performed at least partially externally by the data acquisition device 2, for example, by an entity such as the manufacturer, fleet manager, or a competent authority. In step e, the determined actual configuration and the created target configuration 4 are compared, and any deviations are identified. This result is output to a user 5 in step f, at least if the actual configuration differs from the target configuration 4. In one embodiment (purely optional, therefore shown with dashed lines), corresponding information is also output to the user 5 in step f' if there is sufficient similarity between the actual configuration and the target configuration 4. It should be noted that the user 5 is not necessarily the source of the request to initiate this real-time process.

[0062] The real-time method proposed here allows for the verification of country-specific conformity of an individual motor vehicle with reasonable costs and time expenditure. Reference symbol list 1 motor vehicle 2 Data acquisition device 3 Current location 4 Target configuration 5 users 6 Permanent location 7 current location 8 IoT components 9 external position 10 Data storage 11 Information network 12 Diagnostic terminal 13 computers 14 Human-Machine Interface 15 Vehicle interface 16 Data interface 17 On-board computers 18 Cloud 19 Edge Device 20 processor 21 Powertrain 22 satellites 23 Target usage area

Claims

[1] Real-time method for verifying the configuration of an individual motor vehicle (1), comprising at least the following steps performed in the order mentioned by a data acquisition device (2): a. in response to a request for the individual motor vehicle (1), digital recording of an identity and actual location (3) of the individual motor vehicle (1); b. Determining the current configuration of the identified motor vehicle (1); c. for the actual location (3), determining at least one registration requirement valid at the time of registration of the identified motor vehicle (1) and / or currently valid; d. based on the identified at least one approval requirement, creating a target configuration (4); e. Comparing the determined actual configuration with the created target configuration (4); and f. Outputting information to a user (5) if the actual configuration differs from the target configuration (4), wherein in one step g. a permanent location (6) is determined where the identified motor vehicle (1) was mainly located prior to the request. [2] Real-time method according to claim 1, wherein the determined permanent location (6) is used as the actual location (3). [3] Real-time method according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the user (5) is a manufacturer and / or fleet manager of the identified motor vehicle (1), and / or the actual configuration is determined exclusively via indirect or direct electronic communication with IoT components (8) of the identified motor vehicle (1). [4] Real-time method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the user (5) is provided with a recommendation for action derived from the deviation determined in step e. together with step f. [5] Real-time method according to claim 4, wherein the recommendation for action includes at least one of the following pieces of information: - Installation or replacement of a different part of the identified motor vehicle (1) making the motor vehicle (1) compliant with at least one identified registration requirement; - Specification of a supplementary operating instruction for the keeper of the identified motor vehicle (1) according to the actual location (3); and - Issuing an operating ban for the identified motor vehicle (1) at the current location (3). [6] Real-time method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the approval requirement for at least one actual location (3) is maintained and serviced by an external body (9). [7] Diagnostic terminal (12) for testing a motor vehicle (1), comprising a computer (13), a human-machine interface (14) and a vehicle interface (15) to a motor vehicle (1), wherein the computer (13) of the diagnostic terminal (12) is connected via the vehicle interface (15) to an individual motor vehicle (1) for performing the real-time procedure according to one of the preceding claims. [8] Motor vehicle (1) comprising a computer (13), a data interface (16) for a data acquisition device (2) and IoT components (8), wherein the computer (13) of the motor vehicle (1) is connected via the data interface (16) to the data acquisition device (2) for performing the real-time method according to one of claims 1 to 6. [9] Computer program comprising computer program code, wherein the computer program code is executable on at least one computer (13) such that the at least one computer (13) is caused to execute the real-time method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least one unit of the computer (13): - in a diagnostic terminal (12) according to claim 7; - in a computer (13) of a motor vehicle (1) according to claim 8, which is designed as an on-board computer (17), and / or - is located in a cloud (18) and / or in an edge device (19). [10] Computer program product on which a computer program code is stored, wherein the computer program code is executable on at least one computer (13) such that the at least one computer (13) is caused to execute the real-time method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein at least one unit of the computer (13): - in a diagnostic terminal (12) according to claim 7; - in a computer (13) of a motor vehicle (1) according to claim 8, which is designed as an on-board computer (17), and / or - is located in a cloud (18) and / or in an edge device (19).

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