Operating a data reading device for a tachograph

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for operating a data readout device (12) for a tachograph (10), wherein the data readout device receives electrical energy from the tachograph, wherein the tachograph has a standardized readout interface (14) which provides a standardized maximum electrical current at a predefinable operating voltage, wherein a mobile communication unit (20) transmits tachometric data in transmit mode, wherein a control unit (22) controls the transmit mode of the mobile communication unit, and wherein an energy storage unit (24) stores electrical energy received from the tachograph. The invention provides that a buck converter (48) converts the operating voltage into a first supply voltage (94), wherein the energy storage unit is electrically coupled to the first supply voltage, wherein the first supply voltage is converted into a second supply voltage (96) by means of a first voltage converter (62), wherein the mobile communication unit is electrically coupled to the second supply voltage, wherein the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit is controlled depending on the supply of electrical energy to the mobile communication unit via the second supply voltage.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for operating a data readout device for a tachograph, wherein the data readout device, in a state electrically coupled to the tachograph, receives electrical energy from the tachograph for its intended operation, for which purpose the tachograph has a standardized readout interface which is configured to supply the data readout device with electrical energy at a predefinable operating voltage and provide a standardized maximum electrical current, wherein, in the state electrically coupled to the tachograph, an interface connection of the data readout device is coupled to the readout interface of the tachograph, and a storage unit of the data readout device receives and stores tachometric data to be read from the tachograph via the interface connection.wherein a mobile communication unit of the data readout device transmits at least a portion of the tachometric data stored in the storage unit in a transmit mode, wherein a control unit of the data readout device controls at least the transmit mode of the mobile communication unit such that the mobile communication unit transmits at least a portion of the tachometric data stored in the storage unit at at least one predetermined time and / or within at least one predetermined period, and wherein an energy storage unit stores at least a portion of the electrical energy received from the tachograph via the interface connection. The invention further relates to a data readout device for a tachograph, which is configured to receive electrical energy from the tachograph for its intended operation in a state electrically coupled to the tachograph, wherein the tachograph has a standardized readout interface.which is designed to supply the data reading device with electrical energy at a predefinable operating voltage and to provide a standardized maximum electrical current, wherein the data reading device comprises at least: an interface connection for electrically coupling the readout interface of the tachograph, a storage unit for storing tachometric data read from the tachograph via the interface connection, a mobile communication unit designed to transmit at least a portion of the tachometric data stored in the storage unit in transmit mode, and a control unit designed to control at least the transmit mode of the mobile communication unit such that the mobile communication unit transmits at least the portion of the tachometric data stored in the storage unit to be transmitted at at least one predefinable time and / or within at least one predefinable period of time.and an energy storage unit for storing at least part of the electrical energy received from the tachograph via the interface connection.

[0002] Tachographs and data readout devices for tachographs are well known in the prior art, for example from DE 10 2022 201 657 A1 or DE 10 2007 062 489 A1. These documents disclose a tachograph system for a vehicle in which a tachograph interacts with a telematics module to transmit tachometric data via a wireless communication link to a receiving station, such as a central office or similar. A tachograph, also called a driving recorder or similar device, serves to record and store tachometric data such as operating conditions related to driving a motor vehicle, including a driver's driving and rest times, the vehicle's speed, driving time breaks, and / or similar information. The use of tachographs is legally mandated for certain motor vehicles, for example by EU Regulation (EC) No. 561 / 2006 and others.

[0003] The legal regulations also define the technical characteristics of the tachograph, particularly with regard to a readout interface used to access the tachometric data stored by the tachograph. This readout interface is standardized by law. This standardization also specifies electrical operating conditions, such as the maximum electrical power that can be supplied by the tachograph via this readout interface.

[0004] For various reasons, it is often desirable to make tachometric data available to an external authority as quickly as possible. For this purpose, a data readout device, sometimes also called a telematics module, is provided. This device is designed to be coupled with the tachograph in order to read the latest tachograph data and transmit it to the external authority via a wireless communication link, preferably a mobile network connection. To this end, the data readout device has an interface port for electrically connecting to the standardized readout interface of the tachograph. Preferably, the electrical connection between the interface port and the readout interface is designed to be detachable.

[0005] The data readout device also includes a storage unit for storing tachometric data read from the tachograph via its interface. This allows the data to be temporarily stored, for example, until it is released or made available for transmission by the mobile communication unit via a control unit of the data readout device. The mobile communication unit transmits at least a portion of the tachometric data stored in the storage unit in transmit mode. The mobile communication unit can, of course, also be used to receive data, such as control data for the data readout device or similar information. Data reception preferably occurs in receive mode. During transmission, the mobile communication unit can provide unidirectional communication with a remote device.However, it may also be possible for a communication protocol to provide bidirectional communication with the other party. Therefore, "transmitting" does not necessarily mean exclusively unidirectional communication between the mobile communication unit and the other party.

[0006] The data readout unit is supplied with electrical energy by the tachograph via the readout interface for its intended operation. For this purpose, the tachograph's readout interface provides an operating voltage with a value determined by the tachograph, which the data readout unit can use for its intended operation. The data readout unit uses this operating voltage to power its components. Since transmitting the tachometric data via the mobile communication unit requires a certain amount of power, which is generally greater than the maximum available electrical power that can be supplied via the readout interface, the data readout unit has an energy storage unit capable of providing additional electrical energy or power for transmission.This should ensure reliable transmission of the mobile communication unit.

[0007] Especially with mobile communication standards like LTE, 5G, or higher, a considerable transmission power is required, necessitating a correspondingly powerful energy supply. While the energy storage unit can support the provision of this transmission power, even a large energy storage capacity cannot guarantee reliable, intended operation of the data readout device in conjunction with the tachograph in every situation. It has been shown that under unfavorable conditions, the charge level of the energy storage unit may be insufficient for the intended transmission operation. Furthermore, the charge level of the energy storage unit can also be reduced by other factors during the intended operation of the data readout device.

[0008] Controlling the mobile communication unit with regard to its transmission operation and / or energy consumption proves problematic. In principle, it is of course possible to control the mobile communication unit via a control signal from the control unit. However, this requires the mobile communication unit to be appropriately equipped, which could negatively impact at least its cost or dimensions. Furthermore, an additional switching element could be provided to activate the power supply to the mobile communication unit depending on the desired transmission operation. However, given the power required, this would necessitate a large switching element, thus impacting at least the dimensions of the data retrieval device. Such a switching element cannot be implemented within the typically available dimensions.

[0009] A device for storing and providing electrical energy is known, for example, from DE 10 2014 103 191 A1. The energy source can, in particular, be an energy harvesting device.

[0010] The invention is based on the objective of improving a data reading device and a method for its operation, so that improved control of the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit can be achieved.

[0011] The invention proposes a method and a data reading device according to the independent claims as a solution.

[0012] Advantageous further training opportunities arise from the characteristics of the dependent requirements.

[0013] With regard to a generic method, the invention particularly proposes that a buck converter of the data readout device converts the predefinable operating voltage into a first supply voltage which has a first supply voltage value that is lower than an operating voltage value of the predefinable operating voltage, wherein at least the absorption of electrical energy or the emission of electrical energy by the energy storage unit is controlled at least depending on the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit, for which purpose the energy storage unit is electrically coupled to the first supply voltage, wherein the first supply voltage is converted into a second supply voltage by means of a first voltage converter of the data readout device, wherein the operation of the first voltage converter is controlled by means of the control unit.wherein the mobile communication unit is electrically coupled to the second supply voltage for the direct supply of electrical energy to the mobile communication unit, wherein the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit is controlled depending on the supply of electrical energy to the mobile communication unit via the second supply voltage.

[0014] With regard to a generic data readout device, the invention particularly proposes that it includes a buck converter which serves to supply the data readout device with electrical energy and which converts the predefinable operating voltage into a first supply voltage, wherein the first supply voltage has a first supply voltage value which is lower than an operating voltage value of the predefinable operating voltage, wherein the data readout device is further configured to control at least the absorption or emission of electrical energy by the energy storage unit at least depending on the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit, for which purpose the energy storage unit is electrically coupled to the first supply voltage, wherein the data readout device further includes a voltage converter electrically coupled to the first supply voltage, which is configuredto convert the first supply voltage into a second supply voltage, wherein the control unit is configured to control the operation of the voltage converter, wherein the mobile communication unit is electrically coupled to the second supply voltage for the direct supply of electrical energy to the mobile communication unit, wherein the data readout device is further configured to control the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit depending on the supply of electrical energy to the mobile communication unit via the second supply voltage.

[0015] The invention is based, among other things, on the idea that the operation of the data readout device can be improved by controlling the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit by activating or deactivating the second supply voltage depending on the desired transmission mode. This eliminates the need for a separate control signal for the mobile communication unit. Furthermore, no additional switching element is required.

[0016] Transmitting refers specifically to the operation of the mobile communication unit for the purpose of transmitting the stored tachometric data. Depending on the specific communication protocol, transmitting does not necessarily involve sending exclusively. It may also include, at least intermittently, receiving signals, taking the communication protocol into account. Therefore, transmitting can preferably be understood as the transmission of the stored tachometric data, in accordance with the communication protocol.

[0017] Preferably, the mobile communication unit can be switched on by switching on the electrical power supply. Furthermore, it can be provided, in particular, that the mobile communication unit is switched off by switching off the electrical power supply. Thus, a defined switching on and off of the mobile communication unit and the transmission operation can be achieved via the power supply. The invention even makes it possible to retrofit existing data readout devices with the invention. For this, the converter operation of the first voltage converter simply needs to be controlled accordingly by the data readout device, in particular by its control unit. It can be provided, for example, that the first voltage converter is activated as soon as transmission operation is to begin. If transmission operation is to be terminated or the data to be transmitted has been transferred, the first voltage converter can be deactivated again.This also allows the power supply to the mobile communication unit to be deactivated, thus ending transmission. Without additional components or specific additional functions of the mobile communication unit, simpler, more efficient, and preferably less interference-prone control of transmission is therefore possible.

[0018] The first voltage converter can be a switched-mode voltage converter that, for example, depending on the voltage ratio of the first to the second supply voltage, is capable of providing at least a boost or a buck conversion. If only a buck conversion is required, the first voltage converter can also be a linear regulator. The first voltage converter is preferably connected to the control unit via a communication interface. This allows the control unit to control the first voltage converter.

[0019] The data readout device can thus be supplied with electrical energy by the tachograph for its intended operation. For this purpose, the tachograph's readout interface is designed to provide a standardized maximum electrical current at a specified rated voltage to supply the data readout device. In this case, the readout interface provides a direct current of approximately 55 mA, as required by law. The electrical power supplied by the tachograph is therefore determined by the operating voltage it can provide. However, the operating voltage is generally dependent on the vehicle's electrical system voltage, which supplies the tachograph, which is installed in the vehicle. The rated voltage can, for example, range from approximately 9 V to approximately 36 V.Accordingly, the electrical power supplied to the data readout device by the tachograph can also vary.

[0020] To ensure reliable operation across a relatively wide operating voltage range, the data readout device incorporates a buck converter that provides the first supply voltage for the data readout device during normal operation, which is lower than the minimum operating voltage. The buck converter is therefore preferably designed as a DC / DC converter. For example, the buck converter can provide a supply voltage in the range of approximately 4 V to approximately 4.5 V.

[0021] The tachometric data to be transmitted can be specified by the control unit. In this way, for example, data packets to be transmitted can be determined, whereby each data packet can be transmitted independently of other data packets by the mobile communication unit. The transmission of the data packets can be staggered, for example, sequentially, or time-division multiplexed. The control unit can manage the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit such that the transmission of the portion of the tachometric data to be transmitted occurs, for example, at at least one specified time and / or within at least one specified period. This can be determined individually for each data packet.

[0022] Furthermore, it is of course also possible that the tachometric data, divided into data packets, can be transmitted at a higher rate than is currently possible. This can be achieved, among other things, by means of the control unit, which may at least partially depend on the specified or configurable operating voltage. With a high operating voltage, the storage capacity of the energy storage unit may even be smaller than with a low specified operating voltage.

[0023] The energy storage unit can, for example, comprise one or more accumulators, one or more capacitors (such as supercapacitors), or similar components. Naturally, a combination of these is also possible. The energy storage control unit can include an energy converter or energy transformer, such as a DC / DC converter, to control the energy flow to and from the energy storage unit in a predefined manner.

[0024] The control unit is particularly advantageously designed to determine the energy consumption of the data readout device, especially to determine any surplus that can be supplied via the tachograph's readout interface. This surplus can be used to charge the energy storage unit. The control unit can also include at least one voltage sensor. However, in principle, at least one separate voltage sensor can also be provided in the data readout device.

[0025] To perform the described steps, a processor circuit can be provided that includes programming or software comprising program instructions which, upon execution of the program instructions, cause the processor circuit to carry out an embodiment of the method. The processor circuit can include at least one microprocessor and / or microcontroller. The program instructions can be stored in a data memory of the processor circuit.

[0026] It is further proposed that the control unit be supplied with electrical energy from the first supply voltage, at least temporarily, via a second voltage converter. This ensures that the control unit can be reliably supplied with energy for its intended operation, even when a power supply from the energy storage unit is unavailable, particularly when the energy storage unit's storage component needs to be charged.

[0027] Furthermore, it is proposed that the control unit be supplied with electrical energy from the energy storage unit, at least temporarily. This makes it possible to maintain reliable functionality of the control unit even during peak loads that could cause a voltage drop in the primary supply voltage.

[0028] In particular, it is proposed that the control unit be supplied with electrical energy from the energy storage unit via a second voltage converter. This would further improve the control unit's power supply. The second voltage converter can be designed as a DC / DC converter, like the first. However, it can also be designed as a linear regulator.

[0029] According to a further training, it is proposed that the control unit be supplied with electrical energy from the second supply voltage, at least temporarily. This is particularly advantageous when the mobile communication unit is in transmission mode, and consequently the first voltage converter is active. This makes it easy to supply the control unit, at least partially, with electrical energy from the energy storage unit.

[0030] Preferably, the control unit is supplied with electrical energy from the second supply voltage via the second voltage converter. Since the second supply voltage is provided at least partially using the electrical energy stored in the energy storage unit, the control unit can be supplied with electrical energy from the energy storage unit. Therefore, the second supply voltage does not need to be adapted to the voltage required for the intended operation of the control unit.

[0031] Furthermore, it is proposed that the control unit be connected to the energy storage unit via communication technology. This allows the control unit to know at least one operating parameter of the energy storage unit, such as a state of charge, a temperature, an electrical storage current, and / or the like. The control unit can, for example, control at least the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit or the converter operation of the first voltage converter depending on this at least one operating parameter.

[0032] Furthermore, it is proposed that the buck converter be communicatively connected to the control unit. In particular, it can be provided that the buck converter is controlled by the control unit. For example, the control unit can set a voltage value of the first supply voltage. It can also be provided that the buck converter detects one or more operating parameters and transmits them to the control unit, for example, a voltage value of the operating voltage. The buck converter can incorporate suitable sensors for this purpose.

[0033] It is further proposed that the data readout device include a switching unit configured to supply the control unit, at least temporarily, with electrical energy from the first supply voltage via a second voltage converter in a first switching state. The use of the switching unit allows different energy sources to be used to power the control unit for its intended operation. The second voltage converter makes it possible to adjust the voltage supplied by the switching unit to a level suitable for powering the control unit. The switching unit sets the respective switching state depending on a switching signal, which is preferably provided by the control unit. The control unit can therefore select from which energy source it receives its electrical power.The switching unit can have one or more switching elements that are activated or deactivated depending on the respective switching state. The switching element can comprise one or more diodes, transistors, electromechanical switching elements, and / or the like.

[0034] Furthermore, it is proposed that the switching unit be designed to supply the control unit with electrical energy from the energy storage unit, at least temporarily, in a second switching state. This will further improve the reliability of the control unit's energy supply.

[0035] Furthermore, it is proposed that the switching unit be designed to supply the control unit, at least temporarily, with electrical energy from the second supply voltage in a third switching state. A desired energy supply for the control unit can thus be achieved in a simple manner.

[0036] It is further proposed that the data readout device includes a second voltage converter for supplying the control unit with electrical energy, wherein the second voltage converter is electrically coupled to the switching unit. This allows for an automated and reliable supply of electrical voltage to the control unit, preferably independent of the switching state of the switching unit and the respective coupled supply voltage.

[0037] According to a further development proposal, the data readout device is to include an energy storage control unit electrically coupled to the energy storage unit and the first supply voltage. This control unit manages at least the energy storage unit's absorption or output of electrical energy. Specifically, the energy storage control unit can be used to control the supply or provision of electrical energy to the energy storage unit in a predefined manner. For example, the energy storage control unit could enable the energy storage unit to provide electrical energy only when the mobile communication unit is actively transmitting. Outside of active transmission, the energy storage control unit could deactivate the energy storage unit's provision of electrical energy.Deactivation can be achieved, for example, by a corresponding energy storage control signal, which can be provided by the control unit. The energy storage unit can receive and evaluate this control signal and, using a switching unit, set the desired functionality. The energy storage control unit then makes it possible to supply the available electrical power to the energy storage unit as much as possible. This allows the energy storage unit to achieve a particularly high state of charge, thereby improving the reliable transmission operation of the mobile communication unit. The potentially higher state of charge of the energy storage unit allows the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit to be extended for a specified period compared to the current state of the art.The control unit can preferably control the energy storage control unit accordingly using the energy storage control signal.

[0038] Furthermore, it is proposed that the second voltage converter be directly electrically coupled to the first supply voltage. This allows for good efficiency in utilizing the electrical power provided by the tachograph.

[0039] The invention also includes further developments of the method according to the invention, which have features already described in connection with the further developments of the data reading device according to the invention. For this reason, the corresponding further developments of the method according to the invention are not described again here. The same applies vice versa.

[0040] The invention also includes combinations of the features of the described embodiments.

[0041] An embodiment of the invention is described below. The following is shown: Fig. 1 a schematic perspective view of a digital tachograph; Fig. 2 a schematic representation of a data reading device; Fig. 3 a schematic block diagram representation of the data readout device according to Fig. 2; Fig. 4 a schematic block diagram of a first embodiment of a power supply for the data readout device according to Fig. 2; Fig. 5 a schematic block diagram representation of a second embodiment of a power supply for the data readout device according to Fig. 2, and Fig. 6 a schematic block diagram representation of a third embodiment of a power supply for the data readout device according to Fig. 2.

[0042] The exemplary embodiments described below are preferred embodiments of the invention. In these exemplary embodiments, the described components of each embodiment represent individual features of the invention that can be considered independently of one another. Each of these features further develops the invention independently and can therefore be considered part of the invention individually or in a combination other than that shown. Furthermore, the described embodiments can also be supplemented by other features of the invention already described.

[0043] In the figures, functionally identical elements are each provided with the same reference symbols.

[0044] Fig. Figure 1 shows a schematic perspective view of a tachograph 10, which in this case is a digital tachograph. The tachograph 10 is constructed in accordance with legal regulations and features, among other things, a standardized readout interface 14. The readout interface 14 serves, among other things, to read the tachometric data stored during the intended operation of the tachograph 10 and to make it available to an external entity, such as a central office or the like. The tachograph 10 is mounted on a motor vehicle (not shown), which is required by law to be equipped with such a tachograph 10. The readout interface 14 is also designed in accordance with the legislation and, in this case, provides an operating voltage depending on the vehicle's electrical system voltage.The operating voltage can be subjected to a standardized maximum current, which in this case is in the range of approximately 55 mA.

[0045] Fig. Figure 2 shows a schematic block diagram of a data readout device 12, which is intended for electromechanical coupling or connection with the tachograph 10. Fig. Figure 2 shows some of the components of the data reading device 12 as examples. Fig. Figure 2 shows that the data readout device 12 has, among other things, an interface port 16 for electrically coupling the readout interface 14 of the tachograph 10. Furthermore, the data readout device 12 has a storage unit 18 for storing tachometric data read from the tachograph 10 via the interface port 16. The data readout device 12 also has a mobile communication unit 20, which is configured to transmit at least a portion of the tachometric data stored in the storage unit 18 during transmission. Finally, the data readout device 12 has a control unit 22, which is configured, among other things, to control the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit 20 such that the mobile communication unit 20 transmits at least the portion of the tachometric data stored in the storage unit 18 to be transmitted at a predetermined time.In an alternative design, it may also be provided that the part of the tachometric data to be transmitted is sent within a specified period of time.

[0046] Furthermore, the data readout device 12 includes an energy storage unit 24, which serves to store at least a portion of the electrical energy received from the tachograph 10 via the interface port 16. For this purpose, the energy storage unit 24 includes a suitably designed accumulator. In alternative embodiments, the energy storage unit 24 may, instead of or in addition to the accumulator, include one or more capacitors, for example, in the form of one or more supercapacitors.

[0047] Furthermore, the data readout device 12 has a power supply unit 32 for supplying the data readout device 12 with electrical energy from the tachograph 10. The power supply unit 32 in turn has an energy storage control unit 26, which is configured to control at least the supply of electrical energy to the energy storage unit 24 or the provision of electrical energy by the energy storage unit 24, at least depending on the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit 20. For this purpose, the energy storage control unit 26 is coupled to the control unit 22 via a communication bus. The communication bus is, in this case, of the type of I 2 The C-communication bus is designed. In alternative configurations, another suitable communication bus can of course be used without affecting the concept of the invention.

[0048] Fig. Figure 3 shows a schematic block diagram of a first embodiment for the construction of the data reading device 12 according to Fig. 2. It can be seen that the interface port 16 is connected to the readout interface 14. For this purpose, a detachable plug connection is provided so that the data readout device 12 can be connected to the tachograph 10 as needed. It may also be provided that the data readout device 12 can be connected to different tachographs 10 of different motor vehicles.

[0049] Out of Fig. Figure 3 shows that a connector of interface port 16 has six terminals 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, which are electrically connected to corresponding terminals (not shown) of the readout interface 14 of the tachograph 10. As previously explained, terminals 34 and 36 can supply an operating voltage from the tachograph 10 via the readout interface 14 to power the data readout device 12. For this purpose, terminal 34 is electrically connected to an electrical reference potential 46 of the data readout device 12. The operating voltage is then available at terminal 36 relative to terminal 34 or the reference potential 46. Terminal 36 is electrically connected to the power supply unit 32. The power supply unit 32 provides power to the data readout device 12.

[0050] The RS232 interface unit 60 is connected to terminals 38 and 40, which are electrically connected to corresponding terminals of the readout interface 14. In this configuration, the RS232 interface protocol is used for communication between the RS232 interface unit 60 and the tachograph 10.

[0051] The structure of the supply unit 32 according to a first embodiment is shown in the schematic block diagram according to Fig. Figure 4 shows this in more detail. The power supply unit 32 has a buck converter 48, the input of which is supplied with the operating voltage between the terminal contacts 34 and 36. The buck converter 48 provides a first supply voltage 94, which is lower than the minimum permissible operating voltage of the tachograph 10. In the present embodiment, a permissible range for the operating voltage is provided between approximately 9 V and approximately 33 V. In alternative embodiments, the permissible range for the operating voltage can, of course, also vary. The buck converter 48 provides a regulated first supply voltage 94, which can be kept essentially constant within a specified operating range or during the intended operation of the data readout device 12.

[0052] The supply unit 32 also includes the energy storage control unit 26, whose input terminal is connected to the buck converter 48 for the purpose of supplying energy. The energy storage unit 24 is also connected to the energy storage control unit 26. The energy storage control unit 26 can be controlled with regard to its intended operation by means of an energy storage control signal 30. The energy storage control signal 30 is provided in this case by the control unit 22.

[0053] Depending on the energy storage control signal 30, the supply of electrical energy to and the provision of electrical energy by the energy storage unit 24 can be controlled. For this purpose, the energy storage control signal 30 can contain control data from the control unit 22, which depends, among other things, on the transmission status of the mobile communication unit 20. This makes it possible for the control unit 22 to activate an additional supply of electrical energy by means of the energy storage control signal 30 when the mobile communication unit 20 is about to begin transmission. Furthermore, it is possible to deactivate the supply of electrical energy by means of the energy storage control signal 30 when the mobile communication unit 20 is not transmitting. Of course, other functions and operating states can also be controlled by means of the energy storage control signal 30.

[0054] Out of Fig. Figure 3 further shows that the data reading device 12 includes the mobile communication unit 20, which is in communication contact with the control unit 22. The mobile communication unit 20 is connected to an unspecified transmitting / receiving antenna. It is also evident that the mobile communication unit 20 is connected via a port V 20 is supplied with electrical energy for its intended operation. The electrical energy is supplied at a corresponding connection V. 20 provided by supply unit 32. Connection V 20 As will be explained further below, it is supplied with a second electrical supply voltage of 96.

[0055] The power supply unit 32 also provides a supply voltage VCC, which supplies the components of the data readout device 12. Fig. Figure 3 further shows that the data reading device 12 has a GNSS system 50 and a Bluetooth unit 52, each of which is in communication connection with the control unit 22 and is connected to respective, unnamed transmit / receive antennas.

[0056] The control unit 22 is also connected to the storage unit 18. Furthermore, a display unit 54, which in this configuration has three LEDs, is connected to the control unit 22. The LEDs can be used to visually indicate predefined operating states of the data readout device 12.

[0057] Furthermore, the data readout device 12 includes a Calio unit 56 electrically connected to terminal 44, which communicates with the control unit 22. In addition, the data readout device 12 includes a diagnostic unit 58, which communicates with the control unit 22 and is also connected to terminal 42. Finally, the data readout device 12 includes an RS232 interface unit 60, which communicates with the control unit 22 and is connected to terminals 38 and 40.

[0058] In the present configuration, units 18, 22, 50, 52, 54, 56, 58, and 60 are connected to the supply voltage VCC and are supplied with electrical energy via this connection for their intended operation. The mobile communication unit 20, on the other hand, is connected via the V 20 supplied with electrical energy.

[0059] The power supply unit 32 further comprises a DC / DC converter 62 as a first voltage converter, which is activated at least during the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit 20 and receives electrical energy from the energy storage unit 24 via the energy storage control unit 26. The DC / DC converter 62 can be operated in both boost and buck modes. This allows voltage fluctuations occurring during the intended operation of the energy storage unit 24 to be compensated. This proves particularly advantageous if the energy storage unit 24 has one or more capacitors that are discharged during transmission operation. Capacitors generally exhibit greater voltage fluctuations than batteries, depending on their state of charge. The DC / DC converter 62 is connected to the first supply voltage 94 via the energy storage control unit 26.

[0060] In the design according to Fig. 4 is electrically coupled to the DC / DC converter 62 and a linear regulator 64 via a first switching element 100 of an unspecified switching unit. Depending on the switching state of the switching unit, the DC / DC converter 62 is connected to the linear regulator 64, which provides the supply voltage VCC. Depending on the switching state of the switching unit, the linear regulator 64 can also draw electrical energy directly from the buck converter 48, i.e., from the first supply voltage 94, via a second switching element 98 of the switching unit. The other components of the data readout device 12 are supplied with electrical energy via the linear regulator 64. The first and second switching elements 98, 100 are, in this case, formed by diodes. However, in alternative embodiments, transistors, electromechanical switching elements such as relays, or the like may also be provided. The switching unit is controlled by the control unit 22.For this purpose, the control unit 22 provides corresponding control signals 104 and 106 for the switching elements 98 and 100.

[0061] In the present embodiment, the operating voltage is further monitored by the control unit 22. This makes it possible for the control unit 22 to determine, for example, whether the vehicle's ignition is activated. In addition, the control unit 22 can monitor the operating voltage at the connection contacts 34 and 36.

[0062] The control unit 22 can transmit corresponding control data via the energy storage control signal 30 to the energy storage control unit 26 in order to control the charging process in a predefined manner. The control unit 22 can also detect the operating voltage at the interface port 16 and, depending on a detected value of the operating voltage, transmit the energy storage control signal 30 to the energy storage control unit 26. The energy storage control signal 30 is preferably dependent on a value of the detected operating voltage or on a change in the value of the detected operating voltage. The absorption or release of electrical energy by the energy storage unit 24 is thus controlled, among other things, depending on the energy storage control signal 30.

[0063] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the control unit 22 detects when the tachograph 10 is electrically deactivated, for example, when the ignition of the motor vehicle in which the tachograph 10 is installed is switched off. Depending on whether the tachograph 10 is deactivated, the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit 20 continues until a predetermined amount of tachometric data has been transmitted by the mobile communication unit 20. The transmission of tachometric data by the mobile communication unit 20 can therefore continue uninterrupted and does not need to be aborted. This further improves the security of the data transmission.

[0064] Furthermore, the control unit 22 can be configured to divide the tachometric data to be transmitted into predefined data packets, which are then transmitted by the mobile communication unit 20 at different times or over successive periods, with timing adjustments made between them. The transmission frequency and the time interval between data packets can be selected such that sufficient energy is available via the interface 16 to transmit multiple data packets sequentially. In this context, the control unit 22 can determine the energy required to transmit each data packet and, depending on this energy requirement, calculate the time needed to replenish the energy consumed in transmitting the respective data packet via the interface 16. This ensures reliable data transmission.

[0065] It is particularly advantageous if the energy storage control unit 26 controls the energy storage unit 24 in such a way that the energy storage unit 24 provides electrical energy exclusively during the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit 20. Preferably, the control unit 22 provides corresponding control data with the energy storage control signal 30.

[0066] In this context, the control unit 22 is further configured to determine the charge level of the energy storage unit 24. The activation of the transmission mode of the mobile communication unit 20 can therefore be performed depending on the determined charge level. For this purpose, the control unit 22 can be provided with a reference charge level, which is compared with the determined charge level. Depending on the comparison, the activation of the transmission mode is then enabled or disabled. That is, if the charge level is lower than the reference charge level, the transmission mode can remain deactivated, even if the control unit 22 would otherwise activate it. The reference charge level can, of course, also take into account the energy consumption of the mobile communication unit 20, which may be increased under unfavorable radio application conditions.Therefore, it can be provided that the control unit 22 varies the reference charge level depending on an energy consumption feedback from the mobile communication unit 20.

[0067] Alternatively or additionally, the control unit 22 can receive a charge status signal from the energy storage control unit 26 and control the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit 20 depending on the charge status signal. In this further development, the energy storage control unit 26 can determine the charge status of the energy storage unit 24 and provide the corresponding charge status signal. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the control unit 22 triggers the start of transmission operation of the mobile communication unit 20 depending on a value of the charge status signal.

[0068] Furthermore, the control unit 22 continues the transmission of the specified amount of tachometric data, regardless of the charge level signal, until the specified amount of tachometric data has been transmitted via the mobile communication unit 20. This means that transmission continues regardless of the charge level of the energy storage unit 24 until the specified amount of tachometric data has been transmitted and the transmission can thus be terminated in an orderly manner. This can be the case, for example, when a data packet has been transmitted. Therefore, transmission does not need to be interrupted. Instead, reliable data transmission can be achieved.

[0069] To ensure that the energy storage unit 24 can be recharged as quickly and efficiently as possible outside of transmission mode, the storage unit 18 and the mobile communication unit 20 are deactivated after the specified amount of tachometric data has been transmitted. Furthermore, other units, such as the display unit 54, the GNSS system 50, the Bluetooth unit 52, and potentially other units, can also be deactivated to provide as much electrical power as possible for recharging the energy storage unit 24. The deactivation of the aforementioned units can be achieved using the control unit 22.

[0070] Furthermore, the present embodiment also provides for the control unit 22 to be put into a partially deactivated state, thereby further reducing energy consumption. This can be achieved, for example, by also deactivating interface connections to the deactivated units. A program-controlled computer unit encompassed by the control unit 22 can also be put into an energy-saving mode, for example, by reducing its clock rate or similar measures.

[0071] Overall, the invention achieves that the electrical power provided by the readout interface 14 of the tachograph 10 can be made available as extensively as possible for charging the energy storage unit 24.

[0072] To enable the control unit 22 to be returned to the activated state, it can be provided that the control unit 22 determines an activation time. An internal timer of the control unit 22 can determine this time. Furthermore, it can also be provided that a predefined deactivation period is set using the timer, after which the control unit 22 is automatically returned to the activated state. Alternatively or additionally, it can also be provided that a corresponding activation signal is received from the tachograph 10 via the interface port 16.

[0073] In this configuration, the first supply voltage 94 is converted into the second supply voltage 96 by means of the DC / DC converter 62. The second supply voltage 96 serves to power the mobile communication unit 20 for its transmission operation. The operation of the first DC / DC converter 62 is controlled by the control unit 22, for which purpose the control unit 22 provides a converter signal 102, which is evaluated by the DC / DC converter 62. The converter operation of the DC / DC converter 62 can be activated or deactivated by means of the converter signal 102. By appropriately controlling the DC / DC converter 62, the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit 20 can also be controlled. Separate control elements can thus be eliminated.The mobile communication unit 20 is thus electrically coupled to the second supply voltage 96 for the direct supply of electrical energy to the mobile communication unit 20, whereby the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit 20 is controlled depending on the supply of electrical energy to the mobile communication unit 20 via the second supply voltage 96.

[0074] The control unit 22 can thus control the mobile communication unit 20 by supplying electrical energy via the DC / DC converter 62, ensuring that the unit only receives electrical energy when transmission is active. Outside of transmission mode, the mobile communication unit 20 can be deactivated by disabling the supply of the second power supply voltage 96 via the DC / DC converter 62. Therefore, transmission operation can be controlled via the operation of the DC / DC converter 62.

[0075] Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic block diagram of a second embodiment for a supply unit 32, which is based on the first embodiment; therefore, reference is made to the explanations of the first embodiment. Only the differences are explained below.

[0076] In the second embodiment, the energy storage unit 24 is provided with a temperature sensor that can detect its temperature. The temperature sensor provides a corresponding temperature signal, which is transmitted to the control unit 22. The control unit 22 can evaluate the temperature signal and adjust the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit 20 accordingly. This makes it possible to prevent thermal overload of the energy storage unit 24, for example, if the tachograph 10 and the data readout device 12 are located in the driver's cab of a motor vehicle, which is exposed to high interior temperatures in summer due to strong solar radiation.

[0077] Furthermore, the control unit 22 can determine the aging state of the energy storage unit 24 and output the energy storage control signal 30 depending on the aging state. A corresponding measuring circuit can be provided to determine the aging state of the energy storage unit 24, which can be electrically coupled to the energy storage unit 24 on demand or permanently. Using known load methods, the control unit 22 can then determine the aging state. For this purpose, the control unit 22 is in communication with the corresponding measuring circuit.

[0078] Fig. Figure 5 shows, in a schematic block diagram, a portion of the units of the data readout device 12 according to Fig. 3, which serve to supply power to the data readout device 12. The power supply unit 32 is connected to the connection contacts 34, 36, so that it is supplied with the operating voltage provided by the tachograph 10. As explained above, this provides the data readout device 12 with electrical energy for its intended operation.

[0079] In contrast to the first embodiment, the switching element 100 is not connected to the second supply voltage 96, but instead is directly connected to the energy storage unit 24. If the switching elements 98 and 100 are formed by diodes, the control unit 22 can be automatically powered by the energy storage unit 24 without requiring a control signal. As soon as the first supply voltage is available, the voltage of which is greater than that which can be provided by the energy storage unit 24, the control unit 22 is powered via the switching element 98, which is configured as a diode, from the first supply voltage 94. The control unit 22 can thus be powered independently of the power supply via the interface connection 16. The other functions correspond to the first embodiment.

[0080] According to a further embodiment, which is based on the embodiment according to Fig. Based on the 5, it can be provided that the energy supply to the DC / DC converter 62 is switched by the energy storage control unit 26 using the converter signal 102 instead of the DC / DC converter 62 itself. The mobile communication unit 20 can also be switched off in this way, by switching the operation of the DC / DC converter 62 using the energy storage control unit 26. This achieves the same effect as the previously described direct shutdown of the DC / DC converter 62 by the control unit 22 using the converter signal 102.

[0081] Fig.Figure 6 shows a schematic block diagram of a third embodiment for a supply unit 32, which is based on the first and second embodiments. Therefore, reference is made to the explanations of the first and second embodiments. Only the differences are explained below.

[0082] The third embodiment differs from the previous embodiments, among other things, in that the functions of the buck converter 48 and the energy storage control unit 26 are implemented by an energy management unit 68. This allows for circuit simplification. The energy management unit 68 is implemented by an integrated hardware circuit. The energy management unit 68 is thus directly connected to the interface port 16 and to the energy storage unit 24. The latter provides the first supply voltage 94. At the same time, the linear regulator 64 is no longer connected to the switching unit but instead directly to the first supply voltage 94. The switching unit is omitted in this embodiment. The control unit 22 communicates with the energy management unit 68 via a communication link 108.Data, parameters, and / or similar information can be exchanged via communication link 108. The other functions essentially correspond to those of the first and second configurations.

[0083] Overall, the invention thus provides a simple and cost-effective control option for controlling the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit 20.

[0084] The exemplary embodiments serve solely to illustrate the invention and are not intended to limit it. Reference symbol list 10 Tachograph 12 Data reading device 14 Readout interface 16 interface ports 18 storage units 20 mobile communication units 22 Control unit 24 Energy storage units 26 Energy storage control unit 30 Energy storage control signal 32 supply units 34 Connection contact 36 connection contacts 38 connection contacts 40 connection contacts 42 Connection contact 44 Connection contact 46 Reference potential 48 buck converters 50 GNSS system 52 Bluetooth unit 54 Display unit 56 Calio units 58 diagnostic units 60 RS232 interface unit 62 DC / DC converters 64 longitudinal controllers 68 Energy Management Unit 94 first supply voltage 96 second supply voltage 98 Diode 100 diodes 102 converter signal 104 Control signal 106 Control signal 108 Communication link

Claims

[1] Method for operating a data readout device (12) for a tachograph (10), wherein the data readout device (12) receives electrical energy from the tachograph (10) for its intended operation in a state electrically coupled with the tachograph (10), for the purpose of which the tachograph (10) has a standardized readout interface (14) which is configured to supply the data readout device (12) with electrical energy at a predefinable operating voltage and to provide a standardized maximum electrical current, wherein in the state electrically coupled with the tachograph (10) an interface connection (16) of the data readout device (12) is coupled to the readout interface (14) of the tachograph (10), and a storage unit (18) of the data readout device (12) receives and stores tachometric data to be read from the tachograph (10) via the interface connection (16),wherein a mobile communication unit (20) of the data readout device (12) transmits at least a part of the tachometric data stored in the storage unit (18) in transmit mode, wherein a control unit (22) of the data readout device (12) controls at least the transmit mode of the mobile communication unit (20) such that the mobile communication unit (20) transmits at least a part of the tachometric data stored in the storage unit (18) at at least a predetermined time and / or within at least a predetermined period, and wherein an energy storage unit (24) stores at least a part of the electrical energy received from the tachograph (10) via the interface connection (16), , characterized by, that a buck converter (48) of the data readout device (12) converts the predefinable operating voltage into a first supply voltage (94) which has a first supply voltage value that is lower than an operating voltage value of the predefinable operating voltage, wherein at least the absorption of electrical energy or the emission of electrical energy by the energy storage unit (24) is controlled at least depending on the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit (20), for which purpose the energy storage unit (24) is electrically coupled to the first supply voltage (94), wherein the first supply voltage (94) is converted into a second supply voltage (96) by means of a first voltage converter (62) of the data readout device (12), wherein the operation of the first voltage converter (62) is controlled by means of the control unit (22),wherein the mobile communication unit (20) is electrically coupled to the second supply voltage (96) for the direct supply of electrical energy to the mobile communication unit (20), wherein the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit (20) is controlled depending on the supply of electrical energy to the mobile communication unit (20) via the second supply voltage (96). [2] Method according to claim 1, characterized by , that the control unit (22) is supplied at least temporarily with electrical energy from the first supply voltage (94) via a second voltage converter (64). [3] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the control unit (22) is supplied at least temporarily with electrical energy from the energy storage unit (24). [4] Method according to claim 3, characterized by , that the control unit (22) is supplied with electrical energy from the energy storage unit (24) via a second voltage converter (64). [5] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the control unit (22) is supplied at least temporarily with electrical energy from the second supply voltage (96). [6] Method according to claim 5, characterized by , that the control unit (22) is supplied with electrical energy from the second supply voltage (96) via the second voltage converter (64). [7] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the control unit (22) is connected to the energy storage unit (24) via communication technology. [8] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the buck converter (48) is connected to the control unit (22) via communication technology. [9] Data readout device (12) for a tachograph (10), which is configured to receive electrical energy from the tachograph (10) for its intended operation in a state electrically coupled to the tachograph (10), wherein the tachograph (10) has a standardized readout interface (14) which is configured to provide a standardized maximum electrical current for supplying the data readout device (12) with electrical energy at a predefinable operating voltage, wherein the data readout device (12) has at least: - an interface connection (16) for electrically coupling the readout interface (14) of the tachograph (10), - a storage unit (18) for storing tachometric data read from the tachograph (10) via the interface port (16), - a mobile communication unit (20) which is designed to transmit at least some of the tachometric data stored in the storage unit (18) in a transmitting mode, - a control unit (22) configured to control at least the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit (20) such that the mobile communication unit (20) transmits at least the portion to be transmitted of the tachometric data stored in the storage unit (18) at at least one predefinable time and / or within at least one predefinable period of time, and - an energy storage unit (24) for storing at least some of the electrical energy received from the tachograph (10) via the interface port (16), characterized by - a buck converter (48) which serves to supply the data readout device (12) with electrical energy and converts the predefinable operating voltage into a first supply voltage (94), wherein the first supply voltage (94) has a first supply voltage value which is less than an operating voltage value of the predefinable operating voltage, - wherein the data readout device (12) is further configured to control at least the intake of electrical energy or the output of electrical energy by the energy storage unit (24) at least depending on the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit (20), for which purpose the energy storage unit (24) is electrically coupled to the first supply voltage (94), - a first voltage converter (62) electrically coupled to the first supply voltage (94), which is configured to convert the first supply voltage (94) into a second supply voltage (96), - wherein the control unit (22), which is configured to control the operation of the first voltage converter (62), - wherein the mobile communication unit (20) is electrically coupled to the second supply voltage (96) for the direct supply of electrical energy to the mobile communication unit (20), - wherein the data reading device (12) is further configured to control the transmission operation of the mobile communication unit (20) depending on the supply of electrical energy to the mobile communication unit (20) via the second supply voltage (96). [10] Data reading device (12) according to claim 9, characterized by a switching unit designed to supply the control unit (22) in a first switching state at least temporarily with electrical energy from the first supply voltage (94) via a second voltage converter (64). [11] Data reading device (12) according to claim 9 or 10, characterized by, that the switching unit is designed to supply the control unit (22) at least temporarily with electrical energy from the energy storage unit (24) in a second switching state. [12] Data reading device (12) according to one of claims 9 to 11, characterized by , that the switching unit is designed to supply the control unit (22) at least temporarily with electrical energy from the second supply voltage (96) in a third switching state. [13] Data reading device (12) according to claim 12, characterized by a second voltage converter (64) for supplying the control unit (22) with electrical energy, wherein the second voltage converter (64) is electrically coupled to the switching unit. [14] Data reading device (12) according to any one of claims 9 to 13, characterized byan energy storage control unit (26) electrically coupled to the energy storage unit (24) and the first supply voltage (94) for controlling at least the absorption of electrical energy or the emission of electrical energy by the energy storage unit (24). [15] Data reading device (12) according to claim 9, characterized by , that the second voltage converter (64) is directly electrically coupled to the first supply voltage (94).

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