MEASURING STATION, SET UP TO MEASURE AIR QUALITY

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a measuring station, designed to measure air quality, for outdoor installation in urban areas.

[0002] Such measuring stations are generally known in the form of measuring containers in which the measuring electronics are installed and on whose roofs are mounted measuring devices for determining air quality, for example, the particulate matter content. Such measuring stations are typically located on busy roads or in inner-city areas otherwise contaminated by pollutants.

[0003] These conventional measurement containers have several disadvantages. They are very large, thus blocking considerable public space and creating a significant visual obstruction, making their installation at intersections particularly problematic. Furthermore, these measurement containers are typically rather unsightly and are therefore rarely installed in urban areas, especially in city centers, or near urban green spaces or recreational areas where air quality monitoring would be desirable. Furthermore, such containers quickly become contaminated. Particularly at locations with high levels of particulate matter, significant amounts of particulate matter accumulate on the container roof, which is repeatedly stirred up by gusts of wind. This also leads to inaccurate particulate matter measurements. Furthermore, conventional containers do not provide local information about air quality.

[0004] CN 104 678 063 discloses a tree-like air quality measuring station with sensors for various air quality indicators and with light elements arranged on leaves that are controlled depending on the air quality.

[0005] Against this background, the present invention is based on the object of providing a measuring station for measuring air quality for outdoor installation in urban areas, with which the above-mentioned disadvantages are at least partially avoided.

[0006] This object is achieved according to the invention by a measuring station, configured for measuring air quality, for outdoor installation in urban areas, comprising a base for setting up the measuring station on a surface, with a trunk-like structure that extends upwards from the base. The measuring station has a crown-like structure at the upper end of the trunk-like structure, wherein at least one measuring sensor is integrated into the measuring station in such a way that the measuring sensor can measure values ​​of a parameter for the air quality of the air in the region of the crown-like structure. Furthermore, the crown-like structure has a plurality of hollow spherical elements that define the outer shape of the crown-like structure, and lighting means are provided and arranged to illuminate at least one, preferably a plurality of the spherical elements, wherein the lighting means are arranged in the hollow spherical elements.In addition, a control device is provided which is designed to control the lighting means depending on the measured values ​​measured with the at least one measuring sensor.

[0007] This provides a visually appealing measuring station for the inner city, capable of measuring ambient air quality. The three-part structure of the measuring station—a base, a trunk-like structure, and a crown-like structure—mimics the appearance of a deciduous tree, allowing it to be seamlessly integrated into the cityscape without appearing like an alien object, like bulky conventional measuring containers.

[0008] The base is used to set up the measuring station on a surface and provides the necessary stability. The weight of the base is preferably dimensioned, for example by providing appropriate weights, such that the measuring station can be securely installed without additional ground anchoring. The weight is preferably dimensioned such that the measuring station can withstand a specified wind speed of preferably at least 100 km / h without tipping over. Alternatively or additionally, fastening elements, such as fastening rings, can be provided on the base to anchor the measuring station to the ground.

[0009] The trunk-like structure extends upwards from the base and holds the crown-like structure at the top of the trunk-like structure. The trunk-like structure supports the crown-like structure, ensuring minimal obstruction of the field of vision through the measuring station at typical eye level for pedestrians or vehicle occupants, compared to a monolithic measuring container. The trunk-like structure can be formed, for example, by a metal tube. Such a metal tube provides stability to the measuring station and can safely support the crown-like structure.

[0010] Preferably, one or more air inlets are provided in the region of the crown-like structure, through which air can be introduced into the interior of the measuring station in the region of the crown-like structure and fed to the at least one measuring sensor in order to determine the air quality. To draw in the air through the one or more air inlets, one or more intake devices, such as fans, can be provided in the measuring station.

[0011] At least one air inlet is preferably located on the underside of the crown-like structure and preferably directed downwards. This protects the air inlet from rain and allows air from the underside of the crown-like structure to enter the measuring station, allowing air from a typical passerby's head height to be analyzed. Furthermore, a downward-positioned air inlet has the advantage that no particulate matter can accumulate in the area around the air inlet, as would be the case, for example, on the roof of conventional measuring containers. This allows, for example, particulate matter measurements to be performed with greater accuracy.

[0012] Concentrations of one or more air components are particularly suitable as measured variables for air quality. In particular, the concentrations of gaseous components such as carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), ozone (O3) and / or water vapor (H2O) in the air can be measured. Additionally or alternatively, concentrations of liquid or solid components can also be measured, in particular particulate matter concentrations (for example concentrations of coarse, fine or ultrafine particulate matter). Accordingly, at least one measuring sensor, in particular the at least one measuring sensor, is preferably designed to measure measured values ​​of one or more of the following measured variables: NOx concentration, O3 concentration, CO2 concentration, particulate matter concentration or air humidity.In particular, several measuring sensors can be provided to measure measured values ​​of various of the previously mentioned measured variables.

[0013] In addition, additional sensors for measuring other environmental data can be provided at the measuring station, for example, temperature, precipitation, wind direction and / or wind speed, UV, or even noise sensors. These sensors can be arranged, for example, inside the crown-like structure or outside, in particular on the crown-like structure. Outside, in particular on the crown-like structure, a UV sensor, a precipitation sensor, a wind direction and / or wind speed sensor, and / or a temperature sensor can be arranged. In this way, in addition to air quality, other environmental conditions, in particular those affecting health, can also be measured.

[0014] The height of the trunk-like structure is preferably selected such that a distance of at least 2 m is provided between the upper edge of the stand base and the lower edge of the crown-like structure. In this way, the crown-like structure is protected from vandalism, as it is not directly accessible to humans from the stand base. To prevent vandalism, the trunk-like structure is preferably designed without branches between the stand base and the crown-like structure in order to make climbing up the trunk-like structure more difficult. The surface of the trunk-like structure is preferably smooth, for example, painted.

[0015] Various embodiments of the measuring station are described below, whereby the individual embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0016] In one embodiment, the measuring sensor is integrated into the base, and an air duct is provided running from the crown-like structure through the trunk-like structure to the base to supply the measuring sensor with air from the area of ​​the crown-like structure. Integrating the measuring sensor into the base enables easier maintenance and easier access to the measuring sensor, for example, through a dedicated, preferably lockable inspection flap. Furthermore, for heavy measuring sensors, it is advantageous to house them in the base to increase the stability of the measuring station.

[0017] Alternatively or additionally, one or more measuring sensors can also be housed directly in the crown-like structure, whereby in this case additional components such as control or evaluation electronics can also be integrated into the stand base.

[0018] In the previously described embodiments, the trunk-like structure serves to route cables and / or air ducts to connect the air inlets in the area of ​​the crown-like structure to the measuring sensors in the base, or to connect the measuring sensors in the crown-like structure to control or evaluation electronics or to a power supply in the base. The base can also accommodate additional measuring sensors or evaluation electronics, allowing the measuring station to be modularly expanded with additional measuring sensors or evaluation electronics.

[0019] In a further embodiment, the measuring station has an energy storage device for supplying the measuring station with electrical energy, which energy storage device is preferably integrated into the base. The energy storage device can in particular be a battery, in particular a car or truck battery, for example with a nominal voltage of 12V or 24V. In this way, the measuring station can be operated autonomously and independently of any other electrical supply. This enables mobile use of the measuring station, for example, even in locations where no suitable electrical mains connection is available. Additionally or alternatively, the measuring station can also have a connection for connecting to an external energy storage device, an external energy source or to the power grid. Furthermore, the measuring station can have a solar module for energy supply, in particular for charging the energy storage device.The solar module can be positioned, in particular, on the canopy-like structure. This reduces shading. At the same time, the solar module is less visible from below and does not disrupt the overall deciduous tree-like appearance of the measuring station.

[0020] In a further embodiment, the base has a waterproof casing. This protects the measurement electronics, evaluation electronics, control electronics, and / or a provided energy storage device from the elements. The crown-like structure preferably has a water drain so that rainwater that has penetrated through a ventilation inlet, for example, can drain away. In particular, water outlets can be provided on the underside of the crown-like structure.

[0021] Furthermore, the stand base preferably has a tightly sealed cover to protect the components contained therein from vandalism or other damage.

[0022] In another embodiment, the base includes a seat, particularly a bench. For example, a seat or bench can be integrated into the base, or the dimensions of the base can be selected so that it can serve as a seat. In this way, the measuring station simultaneously creates a piece of urban furniture that can be even better integrated into the cityscape.

[0023] In a further embodiment, an air inlet is provided on the trunk-like structure, and at least one measuring sensor is integrated into the measuring station in such a way that the measuring sensor can measure values ​​of a parameter for the air quality of the air flowing in through the air inlet. By providing an air inlet on the trunk-like structure, the air quality can be determined at an additional height below the crown-like structure. In this way, for example, an altitude profile of the air quality, for example of the particulate matter or ozone concentration, can be determined. This can be useful, for example, to be able to determine pollution (for example from particulate matter or ozone) for different groups of people (pedestrians, cyclists, children, etc.).

[0024] Additionally or alternatively, an air inlet can also be provided on the base of the stand, and at least one measuring sensor can be integrated into the measuring station in such a way that the measuring sensor can measure a parameter for the air quality of the air flowing in through the air inlet. In this way, the air quality can be measured near the floor. If the base of the stand has a seating area, for example, the air inlet on the base of the stand can be arranged in the area of ​​the seating area to measure the air quality in the seating area.

[0025] According to the invention, the crown-like structure comprises several spherical elements, preferably of different sizes, which define the outer shape of the crown-like structure. For example, the spherical elements can be secured to one another and / or to a common support structure. The spherical elements can also be firmly bonded to one another and form a single component.

[0026] The provision of such spherical elements has the advantage of lending the measuring station a deciduous tree-like appearance. On the other hand, such spherical elements have proven to be relatively easy to maintain and clean, as rain can run off the spherical elements, washing away contaminants. Furthermore, the rounded surfaces of the spherical elements offer little foothold for wild birds, such as pigeons, thus reducing contamination from bird droppings.

[0027] The spherical elements can be completely spherical (in the sense of a mathematical sphere) or, for example, spherical segment-shaped, with the spherical cap of the spherical segment preferably facing outwards. The spherical elements are hollow to reduce weight. Furthermore, hollow spherical elements allow components such as measuring sensors or, according to the invention, lighting means to be arranged in the spherical elements. The spherical elements are preferably made of plastic, as this allows for low weight and good resistance of the spheres to chemical or mechanical influences. For sealing, particularly against moisture, the spherical elements can, for example, have a sealed, preferably screwable base.

[0028] Illumination means are provided and arranged to illuminate the crown-like structure. According to the invention, illumination means are provided and arranged to illuminate at least one, preferably several, of the spherical elements. In addition, a control device is provided which is designed to control the illumination means. LEDs or LED foils are particularly suitable as illumination means. For example, one or more LEDs can be arranged in each hollow spherical element. Preferably, the illumination means are selected and / or arranged such that different areas of the crown-like structure can be illuminated in different colors. In particular, the illumination means can be selected and / or arranged such that the individual spherical elements can be illuminated in different colors.For this purpose, the spherical elements are preferably at least partially transparent in order to allow the light from the lighting means arranged therein to pass outwards.

[0029] The control device is preferably configured such that the illumination of the crown-like structure, in particular the spherical elements, is dependent on the time of day. Preferably, the illumination intensity is automatically dimmed in the evening. This can reduce disruptive light emissions.

[0030] According to the invention, the control device is configured to control the illumination means depending on the measured values ​​measured by the at least one measuring sensor. In particular, the brightness and / or color of the illumination means can be controlled depending on the measured values. For example, the crown-like structure with the illumination means can be illuminated in a first color, for example green, if the measured value lies within a first predetermined range, and in a second color, for example yellow or red, if the measured value lies within a second predetermined range. For example, the crown-like structure can be illuminated green if a measured particulate matter content is below a first limit value, yellow if the particulate matter content is between a first and a second limit value, and red if the particulate matter content is above the second limit value.In this way, the color of the crown-like structure can indicate the current particulate matter pollution in the ambient air to passersby. Compared to a display on a screen, the illumination of the crown-like structure has the advantage that many passersby can simultaneously and intuitively assess the air quality, even from a greater distance.

[0031] The measured value to be used to control the lighting, or a parameter calculated from it, colors, and threshold values, are preferably adjustable on the control device and can therefore be adapted to the ambient conditions. For example, different threshold values ​​may apply to a climatic health resort than to a main road.

[0032] The lighting can also be controlled based on measured values ​​of multiple parameters, for example, the particulate matter content, the ozone content, and / or the nitrogen oxide content of the air. For example, the measured values ​​of multiple parameters can be converted into a specific air quality parameter, and the lighting can be controlled based on the value of this parameter. In this way, even complex air quality parameters can be easily made visible to passersby.

[0033] In a further embodiment, the measuring station has an interface for outputting measured values ​​measured with at least one measuring sensor, in particular the measured values ​​measured with the at least one measuring sensor. For example, the measuring station can have a screen, in particular a touchscreen, for example on the trunk-like structure, via which the measured values ​​or processed data based on the measured values ​​can be displayed. In this way, passers-by can, for example, obtain more detailed information about the air quality, for example if the lighting of the crown-like structure indicates increased pollution. Additionally or alternatively, the measuring station can also have a digital data interface, for example for communication with a network such as LAN or WLAN or with an individual device (for example via Bluetooth), so that the measured values ​​can be observed and evaluated externally.

[0034] A machine-readable code, for example a QR code, may also be provided on the measuring station, in which an identifier of the measuring station or a link to a page is encoded, via which a user can retrieve information about the measuring station or measured values ​​measured by the measuring station.

[0035] In a further embodiment, the control device is configured to retrieve data from a network, for example from the Internet, via a digital data interface. In particular, the control device can be configured to retrieve weather or traffic data and output it via an interface such as a screen, or to control the lighting depending on the weather or traffic data. For example, the lighting can be controlled depending on external data, such as retrieved weather or traffic data, and depending on measured values. Thus, a parameter for the air quality can be determined depending on measured values ​​for the particulate matter concentration and weather data for the expected precipitation or wind speeds, and the lighting can be controlled depending on the value of this parameter.This makes it possible to take into account influences that cannot be directly measured on site, such as the weather forecast, when evaluating air quality.

[0036] In a further embodiment, the control device is connected to at least one other measuring station via a digital data interface and sends the measured values ​​to the at least one other measuring station or receives measured values ​​from the at least one other measuring station. In this way, several, for example identical, measuring stations can form a measuring network and thus evaluate and / or display measurement data from a larger spatial area, for example via the control of the lighting. As a result, an overview of the overall air quality in a specific area, for example a city, can be retrieved or displayed at the measuring stations. Furthermore, the measured values ​​measured by the measuring network can preferably be retrieved or evaluated at a central location, for example on a central server to which the individual measuring stations transmit their measured values.The measurement network does not only have to consist of similar measuring stations like the one described here, but can also include conventional measuring containers or more compact measuring stations.

[0037] Since the measuring station's design allows it to be advantageously integrated into the cityscape, another embodiment can be equipped with additional features that provide the measuring station with additional benefits. This could include, in particular, the provision of a Wi-Fi hotspot, a power outlet for charging small devices such as mobile phones, a vehicle charging station, an emergency call point, and / or security or surveillance technology such as cameras or motion detectors. Furthermore, the measuring station can be used for advertising or marketing purposes, for example, by displaying relevant content on a screen provided at the measuring station.

[0038] In one embodiment, the measuring station has a control device configured to issue a warning when poor air quality or high levels of pollution, for example, due to particulate matter or UV radiation, is measured. For example, by illuminating the crown-like structure with the lighting means in a specific color, for example, red, or by issuing a warning message via a designated loudspeaker or screen, or via an electrical data connection, such as a network. In this way, people around the measuring station can be immediately warned of local poor air quality or high levels of pollution.

[0039] In a further embodiment, the control device is configured to control a first part of the lighting means depending on measured values ​​of a first measured variable for air quality, for example, the particulate matter concentration, and a second part of the lighting means depending on measured values ​​for a second measured variable for air quality, for example, the ozone concentration. For example, different areas of the crown-like structure can be illuminated depending on different measured values ​​or parameters determined therefrom. This makes it easy to inform passersby about multiple measured variables or parameters simultaneously.

[0040] In another embodiment, the measuring station has a modular design. This allows for easier transport of the measuring station. In particular, the base, the trunk-like structure, and the crown-like structure can be designed as separate components that can be joined together using connecting elements provided on the components.

[0041] Further features and advantages of the measuring station will become apparent from the following description of embodiments, with reference to the attached drawing.

[0042] In the drawing show Fig. 1 an embodiment of the measuring station in schematic view, Fig. 2 the measuring station from Fig. 1 in a schematic sectional view, Fig. 3 shows another embodiment of the measuring station in a schematic sectional view and Fig. 4 shows the measuring station from Fig. 1 in another schematic sectional view.

[0043] Figure 1shows an embodiment of the measuring station 2 in a schematic side view. The measuring station has a base 4 for setting up the measuring station 2 on a substrate 6, a trunk-like structure 8 extending upwards from the base 4, and a crown-like structure 10 arranged at the upper end of the trunk-like structure 8.

[0044] Figure 2 shows measuring station 2 in a schematic sectional view.

[0045] A measuring sensor 12 is integrated into the measuring station 2, which can be used to measure measured values ​​of a parameter for air quality, for example, the concentration of certain gases or solids in the air. The measuring sensor 12 is located in the base 4 of the measuring station 2, as is an energy storage device 14 in the form of a battery for supplying power to the measuring sensor 12 and other components of the measuring station 2, as well as a control device 16.

[0046] To protect the components arranged in the base 4, the base 4 has a closed, waterproof, and robust casing 18, which protects the components arranged therein from weather or vandalism. The base can also have weights to ensure the stability of the measuring station 2.

[0047] In the area of ​​the crown-like structure 10, a plurality of air inlets 20, 22 are provided, through which air from the area of ​​the crown-like structure 10 reaches the interior of the measuring station 2. The air reaches the measuring sensor 12 via provided air supply lines 23, which run from the air inlets 20, 22 through the crown-like structure 10 and the trunk-like structure 8 to the measuring sensor 12, so that the measuring sensor 12 can measure measured values ​​of a parameter for the air quality, in particular for concentrations of certain gaseous components (e.g. CO, CO 2 , NO x , O 3 ) or solid components (e.g. particulate matter) in the air in the area of ​​the crown-like structure 10.

[0048] In order to be able to measure air quality parameters at other altitudes, the measuring station 2 has Figure 2another air inlet 24 in the area of ​​the trunk-like structure. In this way, the air quality at different altitudes can be determined.

[0049] Figure 3 shows an alternative embodiment of the measuring station 2', in which measuring sensors 12' and 12" are arranged in the crown-like structure 10. For power supply, the sensors 12' and 12" are connected to the energy storage device 14 by means of power lines 26 running through the trunk-like structure 8. Furthermore, the sensors 12' and 12" are connected to the control device 16 via data lines 28, so that the values ​​measured by the sensors 12', 12" can be transmitted to the control device 16 and evaluated or further processed there.

[0050] Figure 4 shows again the measuring station 2 from Figure 1 and 2 in schematic cross-sectional view, whereby for the sake of clarity some components are Figure 2hidden and other components are displayed.

[0051] As in the Figure 1 and 4 Schematically illustrated, the crown-like structure 10 is formed by glued-together spherical elements 30 in the form of hollow spheres or hollow sphere segments, and therefore has the appearance of a deciduous tree crown. The spherical elements 30 are preferably made of plastic and are at least partially transparent, so that they can be illuminated from within. For this purpose, illumination means 32 in the form of light-emitting diodes are arranged in the spherical elements 30. These illumination means are connected to the control device 16 via control lines 34 and can preferably be controlled individually by the control device. Fig. 4 shows the lighting means 32 arranged in the spherical elements 30 as an example using two spherical elements 30.

[0052] The light-emitting diodes 32 can be single-color light-emitting diodes or multi-color light-emitting diodes whose color can be adjusted via the control device 16.

[0053] Preferably, the control device 16 is configured to control the illumination means 32 depending on the measured values ​​measured by the measuring sensor 12. In this way, the crown-like structure 10 can be illuminated depending on the air quality determined by the measuring sensor 12. If the measuring sensor 12 is, for example, a measuring sensor for the particulate matter concentration in the air, the control device can be configured to illuminate the crown-like structure in a first color, for example green, when the measured particulate matter content is in a first range, for example harmless to health, and to illuminate it in a second color, for example red, when the particulate matter content is in a second range, for example elevated or hazardous to health.

[0054] The illumination of the crown-like structure 10 can also be controlled depending on a combination of different measured values. Furthermore, different areas of the crown-like structure 10 can be illuminated in different colors. For example, it is conceivable that a first area of ​​the crown-like structure 10 is illuminated depending on a first measured value of the air quality, for example, the Os concentration, and a second area is illuminated depending on a second measured value of the air quality, for example, the particulate matter concentration.

[0055] By controlling the lighting means 32 in this way, the measuring station 2 not only allows the current air quality to be measured, but also displays it in a way that is visible to passers-by.

[0056] In order to display further information about the measured values ​​and, if necessary, evaluations, a monitor 36 can be provided at the measuring station, for example, on the trunk-like structure 8. This monitor can display various information under the control of the control device 16. Furthermore, a solar panel 38 can be provided for power supply, which is connected to the energy storage device 14 and charges it.

[0057] The control device 16 can be configured to transmit data via a digital interface, for example, via LAN or WLAN to a network, or, for example, via Bluetooth to a mobile device. In particular, the control device 16 can be connected to the Internet to transmit measured data to a central server.

[0058] Furthermore, the measuring station 2 can be connected to other, in particular similar, measuring stations to form a measuring network in which the individual measuring stations 2 exchange the locally measured measured values ​​or transmit them to a central server, so that the air quality can be evaluated as a whole over a larger area over which the measuring network is distributed.

[0059] To use the measuring station 2 as a public piece of furniture, the stand base 4 is as shown in Fig. 1 As shown, it is preferably dimensioned such that it can serve as a seat. The distance between the upper edge of the stand base 4 and the lower edge of the crown-like structure 10 is preferably at least 2 m. This allows an adult to comfortably stand on the stand base 4 or sit underneath it without bumping into the crown-like structure 10. Furthermore, this can prevent vandalism of the crown-like structure.

Claims

1. Measuring station (2, 2'), configured to measure air quality, for outdoor installation in urban areas, - having a stand base (4) for setting up the measuring station (2, 2') on a ground (6), - having a trunk-like structure (8) extending upwards from the stand base (4), and - having a treetop-like structure (10) at the upper end of the trunk-like structure (8), - wherein at least one measuring sensor (12, 12', 12") is integrated into the measuring station (2, 2') in such a way that measurement values of a measuring quantity for the air quality in the region of the treetop-like structure (10) can be measured with the measuring sensor (12, 12', 12"), characterised - in that the treetop-like structure (10) comprises a plurality of hollow spherical elements (30) which define the outer shape of the treetop-like structure (10), - in that illumination means (32) are provided and arranged for illuminating at least one, preferably several, of the spherical elements (30), the illumination means (32) being arranged in the hollow spherical elements, and - in that a control device (16) is provided, which is configured to control the illumination means (32) as a function of the measurement values measured by the at least one measuring sensor (12, 12', 12").

2. Measuring station according to claim 1, characterised in that the measuring sensor (12, 12', 12") is integrated into the stand base (4) and an air supply line (23) extending from the treetop-like structure (10) through the trunk-like structure (8) to the stand base (4) is provided for supplying the measuring sensor (12, 12', 12") with air from the region of the treetop-like structure (10).

3. Measuring station according to claim 1 or 2, characterised in that an energy storage (14) for supplying the measuring station (2, 2') with electrical energy is integrated into the stand base (4), in particular a battery.

4. Measuring station according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the stand base (4) has a water-impermeable cover (18).

5. Measuring station according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the stand base (4) has a seat, in particular as a bench.

6. Measuring station according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterised in that an air inlet (24) is provided on the trunk-like structure (8) and at least one measuring sensor (12, 12', 12") is integrated into the measuring station in such a way that measurement values of a measuring quantity for the air quality of the air flowing in through the air inlet (24) can be measured with the measuring sensor (12, 12', 12").

7. Measuring station according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterised in that the treetop-like structure (10) has a plurality of spherical elements (30) of different sizes, which define the outer shape of the treetop-like structure (10).

8. Measuring station according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterised in that the measuring station (2, 2') has an interface (36) for outputting the measurement values measured with the at least one measuring sensor (12, 12', 12").