Device and system for detecting, documenting, and / or reporting accidents

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for detecting, documenting, and / or reporting accidents, in particular rear-end collisions, between a parked vehicle and another traffic participant, wherein the device comprises at least one distance sensor, said distance sensor being designed to measure the distance between the vehicle and the other traffic participant, a detection unit, said detection unit being designed to detect a registration identification of another traffic participant in an operating state, and a control unit, said control unit being programmed so as to set the detection unit to the operating state on the basis of a measuring result of the distance sensor.

Description

Device and system for detecting, documenting and / or reporting accidents Field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to a device and a system for detecting, documenting and / or reporting accidents, in particular rear-end collisions, between a parked vehicle and another road user.

[0002] Furthermore, the invention relates to a two-wheeled vehicle equipped with the system or device according to the invention. Object of the invention & state of the art

[0003] The aim of the present invention is to develop a device or system that enables the reliable detection, documentation, and reporting of (rear-end) collisions between a parked two-wheeled vehicle and another road user. Systems that can ensure this to the desired extent are currently unknown.

[0004] In particular, the invention is intended to enable monitoring of the outer area of ​​the parked two-wheeled vehicle, which is particularly relevant for causing parking damage, in the required level of detail, but not to allow manipulation of the measurements / recordings.

[0005] What is particularly problematic here is that, especially with two-wheeled vehicles, a (rear-end) collision can cause the vehicle to tip over or fall over. The resulting change in the position of the two-wheeled vehicle causes cameras mounted on the vehicle to change their position (position and / or orientation) if the vehicle is parked properly and is aimed at the approaching area of ​​potential accident perpetrators. The accident therefore also changes the detection range of the cameras mounted on the vehicle, making it impossible to capture the vehicle causing the accident during and / or after the accident.

[0006] In this context, it is also problematic that the collection and processing of (personal) data is generally not permitted without the consent of the data subjects. Permanent monitoring of The surroundings of the parked two-wheeled vehicle can therefore lead to legal problems or the data collected cannot be used without restriction to identify those responsible for the accident. Description of the invention

[0007] An object underlying the invention is achieved by a device for detecting, documenting and / or reporting accidents, in particular rear-end collisions, between a parked vehicle and another road user, wherein the device comprises at least one distance sensor, which distance sensor is set up to measure a distance between the vehicle and the other road user, a detection unit, which detection unit is set up in an operating state to detect the other road user, in particular a registration designation of the other road user, and a control unit, which control unit is programmed such that it puts the detection unit into the operating state on the basis of a measurement result of the distance sensor.

[0008] This device thus enables the surroundings of a parked vehicle to be continuously monitored without, however, capturing or recording personal data. Initially, only the distance between the distance sensor (which can be attached, fastened, or installed on the parked two-wheeled vehicle, hereinafter referred to as the "vehicle") and objects located within the detection range of the distance sensor is measured. While the detection unit itself serves to capture image data, which image data will generally also contain personal data, the detection unit of the device according to the invention only records after it has been activated. This activation occurs based on the measurements of the distance sensor; consequently, the detection unit is generally only selectively activated, namely in response to a specific measurement result from the distance sensor.The detection range of the distance sensor and the detection range of the detection unit can overlap or be identical. The activation—i.e., the switching to the operating state—of the detection unit is carried out by the control unit, whereby the distance sensor, the detection unit, and the activation unit can each be formed by separate components of the device according to the invention. Alternatively, it is also conceivable, however, that the distance sensor, the detection unit, and / or the activation unit are formed by one and the same component. This makes it possible to identify a potential accident perpetrator, for example, who is driving a vehicle. to selectively record with the aid of the recording unit any road user who is below a specified or definable minimum distance from the vehicle; in particular, the registration designation (license plate) of this road user can be recorded, but it is also conceivable to record other characteristics of the road user that allow the identification of the road user and / or their driver.

[0009] According to a preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the device comprises at least one position sensor, which position sensor is configured in an operating state to measure a change in position of the vehicle, and / or at least one acceleration sensor, which acceleration sensor is configured in an operating state to measure a force acting on the vehicle.

[0010] This embodiment is characterized in that the device according to the invention is able to actually determine whether or not a (rear-end) collision has occurred. This makes it possible to identify the road user previously detected by the detection unit as the person who caused the accident and to assign the corresponding recording(s) from the detection unit to this event. This means that permanent monitoring of the vehicle's surroundings (which is often legally inadmissible anyway) is no longer necessary in order to identify and, if necessary, report the person responsible for (rear-end) collisions and parking damage. (Photo and / or video) recordings that were recorded by the detection unit before the accident occurred orthe (parking) damage was caused, can be used to identify the person who caused the accident; this has the advantage that the recording unit can take usable images (of the registration designation) of the other road user while the vehicle is still in its intended position or parked position and the recording area of ​​the recording unit is aligned with the relevant approach area of ​​potential accident perpetrators. Whether the accident subsequently results in a change in the positioning and / or orientation of the vehicle is no longer relevant, since the images of the person who caused the accident have already been taken and can be identified as relevant by determining the actual accident event shortly thereafter.

[0011] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the control unit is programmed such that it puts the position sensor and / or the acceleration sensor into the operating state on the basis of a measurement result of the distance sensor.

[0012] In this way, the device according to the invention can be operated particularly energy-efficiently, since the position sensor and / or the acceleration sensor, for example, are only activated—i.e., are put into operation—when the distance sensor has detected that the minimum distance has been exceeded. Only in the case of such a ("critical") measurement result is it important to determine whether the previously detected road user has caused an accident; however, if the minimum distance is not even exceeded by a road user maneuvering in the monitored vicinity of the vehicle, such a determination can be omitted anyway.

[0013] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the measurement result of the distance sensor is due to a falling below a predetermined minimum distance between the vehicle and the other road user.

[0014] This minimum distance can in principle be chosen or set arbitrarily. However, it is advisable to select this minimum distance such that if this minimum distance is not maintained, the probability of a collision between the road user and the (parked) vehicle is very high. This minimum distance should preferably be no more than a few centimeters; for example, the minimum distance can be (approximately) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 20, 30, 40 or 50 cm. By controlling the detection unit, the acceleration sensor and / or the position sensor depending on whether the minimum distance is not maintained, it is ensured that the device can be operated in a particularly energy-efficient manner. In addition, this can reduce or even completely avoid any "false positives" (i.e. the incorrect detection of other road users as the cause of the accident).

[0015] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the control unit is programmed in such a way that storage and / or transmission of a recording of the detection unit is initiated only in the event of a measured change in the position of the vehicle and / or force acting on the vehicle.

[0016] As mentioned above, the collection and processing of personal data is subject to legal restrictions (depending on the jurisdiction). In Austria and Germany, for example, vehicle registration numbers are classified as personal data and therefore cannot be collected, stored, transferred, or passed on without restrictions. However, since the control unit is set up to process data stored in By only storing or transmitting data that can be critical in this respect (or by arranging for this to happen) if it is very likely that a collision has actually occurred due to a measured change in position and / or force, the prerequisites for detecting, documenting and / or reporting accidents in compliance with data protection regulations are created.

[0017] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the control unit is programmed in such a way that the storage and / or transmission of the recording of the detection unit is only initiated if a time interval between the measurement result of the distance sensor on the one hand and the measured change in position of the vehicle and / or force acting on the vehicle on the other hand does not exceed a predetermined time period.

[0018] This can significantly increase the reliability of identifying a road user as the cause of an accident. In particular, (potential) accident events inferred from measured changes in position and / or force impacts are only attributed to a road user previously detected by the detection unit if no more than the specified time period has elapsed between the (critical) measurement of the distance sensor—which may, for example, be due to the minimum distance being exceeded—and the measured change in position or force impact. This time period should preferably not exceed a few seconds; for example, this time period can be set to (approximately) 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 seconds.

[0019] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the distance sensor comprises a TOF camera or is formed by such a camera.

[0020] TOF cameras are 3D camera systems that measure distances using the time-of-flight (TOF) method. They are also known as PMD cameras. The measuring principle is based on the scene being illuminated using a light pulse, and the camera measuring the time it takes for the light pulse to reach the object and back for each pixel. The respective distance can be calculated from the time of flight. The camera thus provides the distance to the object imaged on it for each pixel. The high frame rate of such cameras (up to 512 frames per second) can be used within the scope of the present invention to significantly improve the temporal resolution of the desired detection, documentation, and / or reporting of parking accidents.

[0021] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the detection unit comprises a camera, in particular a photo or video camera, or is formed by such a camera, wherein the camera is preferably set up for infrared recordings.

[0022] This further increases the reliability of the inventive detection, documentation, and / or reporting of parking accidents. In particular, it becomes possible to take photos and videos of the accident or of the road user who caused the accident, which can subsequently be presented as evidence in the assertion of legal claims. The use of infrared images further improves the usability of the images obtained at night – similar to an (active or passive) night vision assistant.

[0023] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the position sensor comprises a magnetometer, an inclinometer and / or a gyroscope or is formed by such a magnetometer.

[0024] Such embodiments enable particularly reliable detection of actual accident events, especially since a parked (two-wheeled) vehicle should, in principle, not experience any change in position. Thus, even the slightest change in position measured on the vehicle can indicate a collision with another road user. In principle, tolerance ranges can also be defined or specified in this context. If exceeded, the device evaluates a measured change in position as a "critical" change in position and associates it with an actual accident. The starting point for the position sensor measurement can, for example, be the positioning and / or orientation of the vehicle measured when the device was activated by the user - for example, when locking the parked vehicle.

[0025] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the device comprises at least one structure-borne sound sensor.

[0026] This improves the reliability and measurement accuracy of the device in that even the smallest vibrations - especially in conjunction with a corresponding ("critical") measurement of the distance sensor - can be used to determine potential parking damage or a (rear-end) collision.

[0027] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the device comprises at least one memory unit, in particular comprising a non-volatile memory, for storing a recording of the detection unit and / or a communication unit for transmitting a recording of the detection unit to an external receiver.

[0028] In this embodiment, the advantage is that recorded data of the detection unit can be stored locally and / or forwarded to an external recipient, such as a server or an end device of the vehicle owner (user). This is particularly the case when the respective recording(s) - as described above - has / have been associated with an accident event. The use of a non-volatile memory enables the stored data to be secured even in the event of a power supply failure. Thus, for example, it becomes possible for the vehicle owner (user) to be immediately notified by a corresponding message transmitted to a mobile end device of the vehicle owner if an accident event has occurred between his (parked) vehicle and another road user.Preferably, this notification may also include access to the image and video files recorded by the road user who caused the accident, or to these files themselves.

[0029] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the device comprises an evaluation unit for evaluating a recording of the detection unit.

[0030] This allows the device to evaluate or (pre-)process the data or images recorded by the acquisition unit. This enables, in particular, more efficient storage and / or transmission of the data. Alternatively or additionally, the images can be processed to isolate specific image elements—for example, the license plate number. Overall, this allows the device to perform more versatile tasks.

[0031] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the control unit, the memory unit, the communication unit and / or the evaluation unit comprises a microcontroller or is formed by such a microcontroller, or preferably the control unit, the memory unit, the communication unit and the evaluation unit are formed by a microcontroller.

[0032] This allows the device to operate autonomously, independent of other computer systems, interact particularly easily with other systems, such as external storage, networks, or similar, and also be designed to be particularly compact and space-saving. This allows the device to be designed smaller overall, making it easier to handle and simplifying its installation on different vehicles.

[0033] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the device comprises a voltage supply and / or at least one PV module.

[0034] This embodiment is characterized by the fact that the device can be operated without an external power supply. In particular, the device can comprise batteries or (rechargeable) accumulators that serve to power the electronic components of the device. Furthermore, the device can also be supplied with electrical energy via PV modules, in which case the device can preferably be mounted on the vehicle such that the PV modules are arranged on an exterior side of the vehicle.

[0035] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the device comprises at least one first camera housing, wherein the first camera housing accommodates the at least one detection unit and the at least one distance sensor.

[0036] This results in a particularly compact and simple design of the device, since the detection unit and the distance sensor, when appropriately arranged in the first camera housing, can cover overlapping (or preferably identical) detection areas. Thus, the first camera housing can be arranged on the vehicle in such a way that a specific approach area of ​​potential accident perpetrators is monitored by the distance sensor and the detection unit. In particular, a camera housing can be provided for each different approach area, which can be aligned and mounted independently of other camera housings. This increases the reliability of the device according to the invention.

[0037] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the device comprises at least a second camera housing, wherein the second camera housing accommodates a second detection unit and a second distance sensor.

[0038] This preferred embodiment thus enables the effective monitoring of two different approach zones, from which other road users typically approach a parked (two-wheeled) vehicle. In particular, the first camera housing can be used to monitor an approach zone extending to the left of the parked vehicle, and the second camera housing can be used to monitor an approach zone extending to the right of the parked vehicle. Preferably, the detection units and distance sensors housed in the two camera housings each have a detection zone with an aperture angle of approximately 180°.Furthermore, the camera housings can each be positioned on the vehicle substantially orthogonal to a longitudinal axis of the two-wheeled vehicle, wherein the detection areas of the detection units and distance sensors each point away from the vehicle.

[0039] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the device comprises at least one base housing, wherein the base housing accommodates the at least one control unit, the at least one memory unit, the at least one communication unit, the at least one position sensor, the at least one acceleration sensor and / or the at least one structure-borne sound sensor.

[0040] By separately accommodating the individual components of the device in different housings, in particular the first and / or second camera housing and the base housing, the device can be protected against deliberate tampering and external forces. In particular, it becomes possible to position or attach the camera housings as intended at locations on the vehicle that are remote from the location of the base housing. For example, the camera housings can be provided as intended on the outside of the vehicle, while the base housing is housed inside the vehicle. This further increases the reliability and operational safety of the device, especially since even in the event of damage to the camera housings, the components housed in the base housing are protected and remain functional.In particular, reliable identification of the road user who caused the accident is guaranteed even if the camera housings (and the device components housed therein) are destroyed during the collision between the person who caused the accident and the parked vehicle. Even then, the data previously collected by the detection units can still be lost. recorded (image) data are identified, stored, processed and transmitted with an accident event detected by the corresponding sensors.

[0041] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the first camera housing and the second camera housing are connected to one another and / or to the base housing, in particular via cable and / or via radio connection.

[0042] On the one hand, this makes it possible to create (signal-conducting) connections between the individual components of the device, which connections are necessary for the device's intended functioning – for example, a data-conducting connection between the detection units and the storage unit. On the other hand, (physical) connecting means between the individual housings – in particular between the first camera housing and the base housing, as well as between the base housing and the second camera housing – also enable particularly simple attachment of the device to the vehicle. For example, this attachment can be achieved by clamping the aforementioned connecting means between a seat and a vehicle body.

[0043] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the device has at least one fastening means which enables a releasable fastening of the device to the vehicle in order to fix the device in an operating position.

[0044] This allows for the simple and rapid mounting of the device on a (parked) vehicle and also enables the permanent positioning or alignment of the detection areas of the detection units and distance sensors.

[0045] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the fastening means is provided on the first camera housing and preferably also on the second camera housing.

[0046] In particular, the fastening means can be designed as clamping devices, which are provided on the camera housings or as part of the camera housings, or are formed integrally with the camera housings and enable a clamping attachment of the camera housings to the vehicle body. This allows the device to be brought into its intended operating position particularly easily, further increasing the device's user-friendliness and manageability.

[0047] According to a further preferred embodiment of the device according to the invention, it is provided that the device can be fastened to the vehicle in such a way that the base housing is arranged in the interior of the vehicle in the operating position of the device and the first camera housing, and preferably also the second camera housing, is / are arranged at least in sections on an outside of the vehicle in the operating position of the device.

[0048] As already explained above in connection with the separate accommodation of the individual components of the device in different housings, the reliability and operational safety of the device can be further increased in this preferred embodiment.

[0049] An object of the invention is achieved by a system comprising a vehicle and a device according to one of the embodiments described above.

[0050] In particular, the vehicle can be a two-wheeled motor vehicle, in particular a motorcycle or a scooter. By properly attaching or arranging the device according to the invention to the vehicle, reliable detection, documentation, and / or reporting of accidents between the (parked) vehicle and other road users can be achieved. All of the statements made above in connection with the device apply analogously to the system according to the invention.

[0051] According to a preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention, the first camera housing, and preferably also the second camera housing, is / are clamped between a seat and a helmet compartment (or a body section surrounding the helmet compartment) of the vehicle. In particular, the base housing can be arranged inside the helmet compartment and connected, preferably via a cable, to the first camera housing, and preferably also to the second camera housing.

[0052] This allows for particularly simple and quick installation of the device on the vehicle, as it is essentially sufficient to place the device on the helmet compartment in such a way that the base housing is positioned on the bottom of the helmet compartment and the camera housings are supported on the outside of the helmet compartment. Closing the helmet compartment (by folding down the seat) creates the clamping connection. Opening the helmet compartment releases this connection, allowing the device to be removed, for example, to be attached to another vehicle. At the same time, the camera housings can also be They can be conveniently positioned on the vehicle, especially since one camera housing can be positioned on the left outer side and one on the right outer side of the vehicle to monitor the right and left sides of the vehicle. This covers the relevant approach areas from which other road users typically approach parked motorcycles.

[0053] According to a further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention, it is provided that the first camera housing, and preferably also the second camera housing, is / are integrated into a respective rearview mirror housing of the vehicle.

[0054] The camera housings can be formed by the rearview mirror housings or as part of the rearview mirror housings. In particular, the camera housings are arranged on the vehicle's rearview mirror housings in such a way that the left and right approach areas of the vehicle can be monitored as completely as possible. This significantly simplifies the installation of the device on the parked vehicle or, if the other components of the device are also integrated into the vehicle, can even be eliminated entirely.

[0055] According to a further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention, it is provided that the base housing is arranged inside the glove compartment and is connected, for example wirelessly or wired, to the first camera housing, and preferably also to the second camera housing.

[0056] This provides the possibility of particularly simple and safe accommodation of the device's base housing, particularly on scooters where the glove compartment is particularly easy to reach and can usually be locked separately.

[0057] According to a further preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention, the first camera housing is / are attached to a throttle lever, and preferably the second camera housing is / are attached to a brake lever, of the vehicle. The camera housings can be, in particular, cubic or approximately cubic or cuboid-shaped. Furthermore, the camera housings can be attached to the rearview mirror (or integrated into the rearview mirror housing), mounted on the handlebars or on stopping devices for the passenger (pipes, handles, grab bars, grab handles), on crash bars, or on holders for suitcases, in particular top cases.

[0058] This also further improves the user-friendliness of the system according to the invention, especially since the camera housing can be mounted extremely quickly on the motorcycle, preferably scooters, and can be aligned to the approach area to be monitored depending on the current handlebar position - for example by using ball joints provided on the camera housings. Short description of the characters

[0059] The invention is described in more detail below using exemplary embodiments. However, the following explanations are neither intended to exhaustively represent nor restrict the inventive concept. Reference is made to the following drawings:

[0060] Fig. 1 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a device according to the invention.

[0061] Fig. 2 shows a schematic view of another embodiment of the device according to the invention. Ways to implement the invention

[0062] Fig. 1 relates to a first embodiment of the device according to the invention and shows the device in a state not connected to a vehicle. The device initially comprises a first camera housing 1, a second camera housing 2, and a base housing 3. The first camera housing 1 is connected to the base housing 3 via a first cable 4, and the second camera housing 2 is connected to the base housing 3 via a second cable 5. The first cable 4 and the second cable 5 are each flexible and designed as a ribbon cable.

[0063] The first camera housing 1 and the second camera housing 2 are identical in the embodiment shown and each comprise a clamping arm 6, which clamping arm 6 serves for the releasable fastening of the respective camera housing to a body of the vehicle.

[0064] The base housing 3 has a connector 7 to allow connection of the device to other systems.

[0065] Basically, the device in the embodiment shown comprises the following main assemblies or components:

[0066] Detection units: The device comprises two detection units (optical sensors, cameras) oriented / orientable in different directions. In particular These sensors are configured to record in the IR range, which has proven particularly advantageous for the clear recognition of license plates. A flashlight variant and / or variants with infrared headlights are also possible. It is important that these detection units are only activated when necessary, namely based on a measurement from a distance sensor (e.g., a TOF camera, see below) or other sensors, such as acceleration or structure-borne sound sensors.

[0067] First camera housing 1 and second camera housing 2: Each detection unit (camera) is housed in its own housing, which can be equipped with a special lens (suitable for camera / IR / TOF, possibly a fisheye lens for panoramic view). The orientation of the housing or the detection units themselves is adjustable to accommodate different situations (e.g., angled parking, parallel parking, parking at different angles relative to the roadway).The respective camera housing 1, 2 can be formed integrally with a base housing 3 (described below), in which base housing 3, for example, acceleration, vibration and position sensors, microcontrollers, radio modules or a power supply for the components of the device are housed; alternatively, the camera housings 1, 2 and the components housed therein can be connected to one another and / or to the base housing 3 via cables 4 or a radio connection.

[0068] Distance sensors: In order to reliably detect an impending collision between the (parked) vehicle to which the device is attached and an approaching road user, the device has a distance sensor, such as a TOF camera, which constantly monitors the immediate surroundings of the vehicle. A control unit of the device is programmed so that the detection units are activated or switched on based on the measurement results of the TOF camera. This means that the detection units only record when the distance sensors report an impending collision. This allows for particularly energy-efficient documentation of parking damage, since the optical sensors generally remain inactive and only need to be activated when necessary - for a short period of time.On the other hand, this also makes it possible to document the period prior to the actual time of the accident using photo and / or video footage (i.e., before other sensors detect an accident due to a force, a change in position, and / or a vibration). Only in this way can it be ensured that, for example, the license plate number of the road user who caused the accident can be documented; in fact, the recording units would not be able to record the accident. If they were only activated after the accident event has occurred, due to the change in position and / or damage to the two-wheeled vehicle caused by the accident, it would be highly unlikely that the detection units - now also with a changed position - would still be able to (completely) detect the identifying mark of the accident causer. The TOF camera(s) is / are also each housed in a camera housing; in the simplest case in camera housings 1, 2 of the assigned detection unit.

[0069] Additional sensors: An accelerometer measures the acceleration of the (parked) two-wheeled vehicle and can thus detect impacts and / or tipping. Alternatively or additionally, additional sensors (e.g., magnetometers, inclinometers, gyroscopes, and / or structure-borne sound sensors) can be used to detect changes in the vehicle's position or forces acting on the vehicle to which the device is attached. These additional sensors are preferably housed in the base housing 3; however, they can also be housed in the first camera housing 1 and / or the second camera housing 2.

[0070] Control unit, storage unit, and communication unit: The control unit is configured to activate the detection units (as described above) as soon as the distance sensor (assigned to the respective detection unit) detects an impending collision with an approaching road user. The sensor data recorded by the detection units can then be (partially) evaluated and / or processed before the corresponding photo and / or video material, in the event of an actual collision, can be stored in a storage unit of the device and / or transmitted to a backend (server and / or user's smartphone). Data transmission can occur via various radio networks, for example, mobile networks, Bluetooth, or Wi-Fi. The control unit and, if necessary, other components of the device can be implemented as a microcontroller.The control unit, the storage unit and / or the communication unit can be accommodated in the base housing 3 and / or in the first camera housing 1 and / or the second camera housing 2.

[0071] Power supply: The device may include batteries to power its electronic components. Additionally or alternatively, the device may include an internal (permanently installed) or replaceable battery, means for inductive charging, and / or a connection to the vehicle's electrical system. Furthermore, particularly when the device is installed in the vehicle's rearview mirrors (“rearview mirror variant”), solar or PV modules may be provided to power the device's electronic components. This “rearview mirror variant” is particularly suitable for this type of device. Two (largely identical) camera housings can be used that are in radio contact with each other.

[0072] The device's control unit can be programmed to delete recorded photo and / or video material if one of the distance sensors (TOF cameras) has reported an impending collision and the corresponding (assigned) detection unit has subsequently been activated, but no actual impact or tipping has been detected within a (specifiable) period associated with this impending collision. This ensures legally compliant and legally permissible documentation of an accident, since only incident-specific recordings of actual accidents are performed, not continuous video surveillance of public spaces.

[0073] Furthermore, the device can be equipped with a GPS module or connected to one (e.g. an anti-theft device) to enable the accident to be localized.

[0074] In order for the detection units or optical sensors to be aligned in their intended operating position such that the vehicle can be secured in a wide variety of parking environments (angled parking, parallel parking, parking at different angles in relation to the roadway), the attachment of the camera housings 1, 2 to the vehicle is of particular importance. A pairwise arrangement of the cameras (camera housings 1, 2) opposite one another on / under the seat, on / in the rear-view mirrors or in the area of ​​the step-through, the trunk or the accelerator and brake levers of motorcycles has proven particularly advantageous. The device is preferably attached to the two-wheeled vehicle in such a way that the base housing 3 (inaccessible from the outside) is arranged inside the vehicle and the camera housing (or housings) 1, 2 are arranged at least partially outside the vehicle.For example, the camera housings 1, 2 can be connected to the base housing 3 via flexible cables (cable 4) and clamped to the vehicle between the seat and the helmet compartment. In the "rearview mirror variant," however, the camera housings are wirelessly connected to the base housing (located, for example, in the glove compartment) and integrated into the rearview mirror housings. When mounted on the accelerator and brake levers, the two camera housings can be plugged onto the free end of the accelerator and brake levers and also wirelessly connected to the base housing.

[0075] The invention is therefore characterized by several advantages:

[0076] Smart object detection: The data from the distance sensor is interpreted by the microcontroller, allowing it to distinguish between, for example, pedestrians and approaching vehicles. This avoids false positives.

[0077] Smart image recognition: The images from the detection units are interpreted by the microcontroller, allowing cars to be recognized (e.g., via license plates - in high contrast) and, if necessary, recorded. This avoids false positives.

[0078] Combination of distance sensors, associated detection units, and acceleration, structure-borne sound, and / or position sensors: The distance or proximity sensor detects impending collisions and initiates image and / or video recording. Only after an actual (measured) impact or fall is the video saved and, if necessary, transmitted. A notification can also be sent to the vehicle owner and device user.

[0079] Combination with solar modules: This enables particularly energy-saving and efficient monitoring. In particular, the combination of the detection units and the acceleration or position sensors with the distance sensor (TOF camera) enables event-dependent activation of the detection units (optical sensors) and the acceleration or position sensors; this drastically reduces the device's energy consumption.

[0080] Using special camera housings 1, 2 or fastening and adjustment means, the detection units and the associated distance sensors can be attached to the vehicle in such a way that their detection ranges can be adjusted to the respective situation. For this purpose, the camera housings 1, 2 can comprise fastening and adjustment means, such as clamping arms, ball joints, hinges, flexible arms, cardanic bearings, and / or be connected to the vehicle's control cam via rotary joints.

[0081] Avoiding data protection issues: The device, especially the control unit, is programmed so that photo and video material is only saved or transmitted in the event of an actual accident / damage. Data transmission to the backend (server, device) is encrypted.

[0082] Special type of data transmission: Data is only streamed in the event of a collision - this significantly reduces data and power consumption compared to continuous recording / streaming.

[0083] The device can be used for passive detection of parking damages with hit-and-run and vandalism for single-track vehicles (motorcycles in general and scooters, mopeds in particular), three-wheeled vehicles (trikes), multi-track vehicles (ATVs, cars, trucks, trailers, mobile homes), rail vehicles (trains, subways...), boats and containers.

[0084] In addition, the device may comprise various sensors, for example rain sensors, temperature sensors, infrared sensors, motion sensors, humidity sensors, acceleration sensors and / or other distance sensors.

[0085] In addition, the detection units can be implemented as optical sensors or cameras with an automatic shutter. In particular, the device can comprise one or two detection units (cameras) and, accordingly, one or two associated distance sensors (ToF sensors). However, for the sake of clarity, it should be noted that the number of detection units and distance sensors can essentially be expanded as desired, for example, to up to 128 cameras and 128 associated ToF sensors. The device can also be equipped with 360-degree cameras.

[0086] In addition, microphones may be provided to record and / or capture sounds of the accident or, in the case of vandalism, to record the voice of the perpetrator(s).

[0087] Fig. 2 shows a second embodiment of the device according to the invention. The device comprises a first camera housing 1 and a second camera housing 2, in which all components of the device are housed. Thus, the base housing 3 of the first embodiment is omitted in this embodiment.

[0088] Here, too, the first camera housing 1 and the second camera housing 2 are connected to each other via a third cable 8. However, the third cable 8 can also be omitted; the components of the device housed in the two camera housings 1, 2 can also be connected to each other wirelessly, for example, via a radio network (e.g., WLAN).

[0089] In particular, in this embodiment, all detection units, distance sensors, control units, position, structure-borne sound and / or acceleration sensors, storage and / or communication units, Evaluation units, power supplies and any PV modules are provided in or on the first camera housing 1 and / or the second camera housing 2.

[0090] Unlike in the first embodiment, in the second embodiment, the two camera housings 1, 2 are not clamped to the body of the vehicle (although this would be possible in principle). Instead, the two camera housings 1, 2 are equipped with openings 9, which pierce at least partially through the camera housings 1, 2 and allow fastening straps, cords, or belts to pass through. Alternatively, other types of fastening points, such as tabs or projections projecting from the camera housings 1, 2, can be provided, which enable the connection of all types of fastening devices.

[0091] Preferably, the two camera housings 1, 2 can be attached to the rearview mirrors of the vehicle, to the handlebars, to stopping devices for the passenger (pipes, handles, grab bars, grab handles), to crash bars, or to holders for suitcases, in particular top cases. The camera housings 1, 2 can be positioned and oriented such that the distance sensors and detection units housed in the camera housings 1, 2 are aligned with the approach area to be monitored, from which other road users approach the parked vehicle, in particular with a side area that extends to the left and right of the vehicle, starting from an (imaginary) longitudinal axis of the vehicle.

[0092] The third cable 8, which connects the first camera housing 1 to the second camera housing 2, is designed here as a length-elastic spiral cable.

Claims

Patent claims 1. Device for detecting, documenting and / or reporting accidents, in particular rear-end collisions, between a parked vehicle and another road user, wherein the device comprises at least one distance sensor, which distance sensor is set up to measure a distance between the vehicle and the other road user, a detection unit, which detection unit is set up in an operating state to detect a registration designation of the other road user, and a control unit, which control unit is programmed such that it puts the detection unit into the operating state on the basis of a measurement result of the distance sensor.

2. Device according to claim 1, characterized in that the device comprises at least one position sensor, which position sensor is designed in an operating state to measure a change in position of the vehicle, and / or at least one acceleration sensor, which acceleration sensor is designed in an operating state to measure a force acting on the vehicle.

3. Device according to claim 2, characterized in that the control unit is programmed such that it puts the position sensor and / or the acceleration sensor into the operating state on the basis of a measurement result of the distance sensor.

4. Device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the measurement result of the distance sensor is due to a falling below a predetermined minimum distance between the vehicle and the other road user.

5. Device according to one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that the control unit is programmed in such a way that storage and / or transmission of a recording of the detection unit only takes place in the event of a measured change in position of the vehicle and / or force acting on the vehicle.

6. Device according to claim 5, characterized in that the control unit is programmed in such a way that the storage and / or transmission of the recording of the detection unit is only initiated if a time interval between the measurement result of the distance sensor on the one hand and the measured change in position of the vehicle and / or force acting on the vehicle on the other hand does not exceed a predetermined time period.

7. Device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the distance sensor comprises a TOF camera or is formed by such a camera.

8. Device according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the detection unit comprises a camera, in particular a photo or video camera, or is formed by such a camera, wherein the camera is preferably set up for infrared recordings.

9. Device according to one of claims 2 to 8, characterized in that the position sensor comprises or is formed by a magnetometer, an inclinometer and / or a gyroscope.

10. Device according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the device comprises at least one structure-borne sound sensor.

11. Device according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the device comprises at least one memory unit, in particular comprising a non-volatile memory, for storing a recording of the detection unit and / or a communication unit for transmitting a recording of the detection unit to an external receiver.

12. Device according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the device comprises an evaluation unit for evaluating a recording of the detection unit.

13. Device according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the control unit, the memory unit, the communication unit and / or the evaluation unit comprises a microcontroller or is formed by such a microcontroller, or preferably the control unit, the memory unit, the communication unit and the evaluation unit are formed by a microcontroller.

14. Device according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the device comprises a power supply and / or at least one PV module.

15. Device according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the device comprises at least a first camera housing (1), wherein the first camera housing (1) accommodates the at least one detection unit and the at least one distance sensor.

16. Device according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the device comprises at least a second camera housing (2), wherein the second camera housing (2) accommodates a second detection unit and a second distance sensor.

17. Device according to one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that the device comprises at least one base housing (3), wherein the base housing (3) accommodates the at least one control unit, the at least one memory unit, the at least one communication unit, the at least one position sensor, the at least one acceleration sensor and / or the at least one structure-borne sound sensor.

18. Device according to one of claims 16 or 17, characterized in that the first camera housing (1) and the second camera housing (2) are connected to each other and / or to the base housing (3), in particular via cable and / or via radio connection.

19. Device according to one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the device has at least one fastening means, which fastening means enables a releasable fastening of the device to the vehicle in order to fix the device in an operating position.

20. Device according to claim 19, characterized in that the fastening means is provided on the first camera housing (1), and preferably also on the second camera housing (2).

21. Device according to one of claims 17 to 20, characterized in that the device can be fastened to the vehicle in such a way that the base housing (3) is arranged in the interior of the vehicle in the operating position of the device and the first camera housing (1), and preferably also the second camera housing (2), is / are arranged at least in sections on an outside of the vehicle in the operating position of the device.

22. A system comprising a vehicle and a device according to any one of claims 1 to 21.

23. System according to claim 22, characterized in that the first camera housing (1), and preferably also the second camera housing (2), is / are clamped between the seat and the helmet compartment.

24. System according to one of claims 22 or 23, characterized in that the base housing (3) is arranged inside the helmet compartment and is connected in particular via cables to the first camera housing (1), and preferably also to the second camera housing (2).

25. System according to one of claims 22 or 24, characterized in that the first camera housing (1), and preferably also the second camera housing (2), is / are integrated into a respective rearview mirror housing of the vehicle.

26. System according to one of claims 22, 23 or 25, characterized in that the base housing (3) is arranged inside a glove compartment of the vehicle and is connected, in particular wirelessly, to the first camera housing (1), and preferably also to the second camera housing (2).

27. System according to one of claims 22, 24 or 26, characterized in that the first camera housing (1) is / are attached to a throttle lever, and preferably the second camera housing (2) is / are attached to a brake lever, of the vehicle.

Images