System for the identification of structural damage in crashed motor vehicles

Abstract

The system (1) for the identification of structural damage in crashed motor vehicles comprises a metering device (2) provided with: a connecting arm (4) of the articulated type; a ferrule element (22) associated with an end of the connecting arm (4) and adapted to sense the position of at least one reference point (B) of a crashed motor vehicle (A); wherein the connecting arm (4) comprises: an angular articulated body (23) adapted to connect the connecting arm (4) to the ferrule element (22); a position sensing element (34) of the electronic type associated with the angular articulated body (23) and adapted to sense the angular position thereof.

Description

[0001] SYSTEM FOR THE IDENTIFICATION OF STRUCTURAL DAMAGE IN CRASHED MOTOR VEHICLES

[0002] Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a system for the identification of structural damage in crashed motor vehicles.

[0004] Background Art

[0005] To this day, the chassis of a motor vehicle is constructed in such a way as to absorb the energy produced in the event of an impact, particularly in the case of a traffic accident.

[0006] In detail, the geometric conformation and structure of the motor vehicle define particular areas, called absorption zones, specially designed to deform and crush during an accident in order to safeguard the health of the passengers in the vehicle.

[0007] As a result of a traffic accident, it may happen that the chassis of a motor vehicle becomes deformed, which may result in the relevant absorption zones also losing their original geometric conformation and no longer being able to properly absorb the energy produced by a new impact. One particular procedure for verifying the structural integrity of crashed motor vehicles involves checking that the so-called reference points of the chassis have retained their original position.

[0008] In the context of the present disclosure, the verbal term “reference points” is intended to denote a plurality of characteristic points on the chassis of a motor vehicle, the spatial location of which is crucial to ensure that the chassis itself can absorb a good deal of the energy produced by an impact to which the motor vehicle is subjected.

[0009] As a result of checking the position of the reference points, it may emerge that the latter have shifted from their original position.

[0010] This circumstance makes it necessary to carry out a repair procedure of the motor vehicle chassis aimed at restoring the correct positioning of the reference points.

[0011] This comprises the use of systems for the identification of structural damage in crashed motor vehicles that enable the detection of the position of the reference points and the measurement of any deviation of their position from the original position.

[0012] The systems for the identification of structural damage in crashed motor vehicles of known type generally comprise a metering device, which can be placed in contact with the reference points of a motor vehicle and adapted to detect the position thereof.

[0013] Again, the systems of known type comprise an electronic control unit, operationally connected to the metering device and operationally configured to receive from the latter the detected position data item and to process a result, related with such position data item and indicative of the correct or incorrect positioning of the inspected reference point.

[0014] On the basis of the result provided by the electronic control unit, the operator is able to determine whether it is necessary to repair the motor vehicle and the extent with which to intervene.

[0015] The metering devices provided with the systems for the identification of structural damage in crashed motor vehicles of known type generally comprise: a basic body associable with a supporting structure; an articulated-type connecting arm provided with a first end, associated with the basic body, and a second end, opposite the first end; a ferrule element associated with the second end, which can be positioned in contact with a reference point of a crashed motor vehicle and adapted to detect the position thereof.

[0016] The connecting arm comprises a plurality of connecting stretches mutually connected to each other through a plurality of angular joints that define respective axes of rotation.

[0017] Again, the connecting arm comprises a first angular joint body, defining a relevant axis of rotation and operating to connect the first end to the basic body, and a second angular joint body, defining a relevant axis of rotation and operating to connect the second end to the ferrule element.

[0018] When using a system of known type, the operator initially positions the ferrule element where the reference point is located, the position of which is to be detected.

[0019] To do this, the operator moves the connecting arm with respect to the basic body and / or the different connecting stretches with respect to each other and / or the ferrule element with respect to the connecting arm by bringing the different angular joints, the first joint body and the second joint body, to take on variable angular positions.

[0020] With particular reference to the second angular joint body, it is necessary to emphasize how it allows for the positioning and blocking of the ferrule element in three different angular positions mutually offset by 45°.

[0021] In detail, the operator can block manually and through a snap mechanism the ferrule element in three different angular positions that are selected according to the machining requirements.

[0022] Once the ferrule element is allocated where the reference point to be tested is located, the operator gives a command to the ferrule element for it to meter the position of the reference point to be tested.

[0023] In order to enable the electronic control unit to provide a correct result, it is necessary to provide the same electronic control unit with the angular positions just mentioned in order to be able to refer the detected position data item to a substantially fixed reference system.

[0024] The metering device comprises a plurality of encoders adapted to detect the angular position of the angular joints and of the first angular joint body and adapted to communicate such angular position data to the electronic control unit.

[0025] In more detail, the systems of known type comprise a centralized electronic board operationally connected to the electronic control unit and to each of the encoders and operationally configured to communicate the angular positions detected by the encoders to the electronic control unit.

[0026] Within the systems of known type, the centralized electronic board is located within one of the connecting stretches.

[0027] The centralized electronic board must be able to be accessible from the outside in order to be able to undergo any maintenance work.

[0028] This aspect implies that the connecting stretch housing the centralized electronic board is provided with an access opening and with a door for opening / closing such opening.

[0029] The need to provide for the aforementioned door means that the connecting stretch housing the centralized electronic board should be made of a metal material, preferably aluminum.

[0030] The angular position taken on by second angular joint body is directly communicated by the operator to the electronic control unit.

[0031] The systems for the identification of structural damage in crashed motor vehicles of known type do however have some drawbacks which are mainly related with the difficulties encountered during the placement of the ferrule element where the reference point to be tested is located.

[0032] As previously mentioned, it is possible to block the ferrule element against the connecting arm in only three predetermined angular positions.

[0033] Therefore, to allocate the ferrule element where the reference point to be tested is located requires multiple maneuvers on the connecting arm.

[0034] This operation is often complicated and time-consuming mainly because of the extension and / or weight of the connecting arm.

[0035] Still, another drawback related with the systems of known type stems from the possible errors the operator may make when communicating the angular position of the ferrule element to the electronic control unit.

[0036] Such errors can affect the correctness of the final result.

[0037] Added to this is the fact that the aforementioned communication phase results in a significant lengthening of the time it takes to use the same systems of known type, which can lead to cost and management increases.

[0038] Still, a further drawback suffered by the systems for the identification of structural damage in crashed motor vehicles of known type is related with the fact that, often, metering devices are very heavy and cumbersome to handle.

[0039] Description of the Invention

[0040] The main aim of the present invention is to devise a system for the identification of structural damage in crashed motor vehicles which allows for the improvement of the positioning phase of the ferrule element where the reference points to be tested are located.

[0041] A further object of the present invention is to devise a system for the identification of structural damage in crashed motor vehicles that allows limiting the occurrence of errors in the final result. Still, another object of the present invention is to devise a system for the identification of structural damage in crashed motor vehicles which allows improving the maneuverability of the metering device.

[0042] Another object of the present invention is to devise a system for the identification of structural damage in crashed motor vehicles which allows the aforementioned drawbacks of the prior art to be overcome within the framework of a simple, rational, easy and effective to use as well as affordable solution.

[0043] The aforementioned objects are achieved by this system for the identification of structural damage in crashed motor vehicles having the characteristics of claim 1.

[0044] Brief Description of the Drawings

[0045] Other characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the description of a preferred, but not exclusive embodiment of a system for the identification of structural damage in crashed motor vehicles, illustrated by way of an indicative, yet non-limiting example in the accompanying tables of drawings wherein:

[0046] Figure 1 is an axonometric view of the system according to the invention during a relevant working phase on a motor vehicle;

[0047] Figure 2 is an axonometric view of a metering device of the system according to the invention;

[0048] Figure 3 is an exploded view of the metering device of the system according to the invention;

[0049] Figure 4 is a schematic view of an electronic control unit and of a related interface screen of the system according to the invention;

[0050] Figure 5 is an exploded view of an alternative application of the system according to the invention. Embodiments of the Invention

[0051] With particular reference to these figures, reference numeral 1 globally denotes a system for the identification of structural damage in crashed motor vehicles.

[0052] Within the scope of this disclosure, it has been assumed that the system 1 will be used during the checking procedures of a crashed motor vehicle A aimed at verifying the structural integrity of the chassis of the motor vehicle A, especially in relation to the latter’s ability to absorb the energy developed in the event of a new accident.

[0053] The system 1 is used to test the position taken on by one or more reference points B of the motor vehicle A each of which, under standard conditions, takes on a predefined reference position that ensures that the chassis of the motor vehicle A is capable of suitably counteracting an external force, thus safeguarding the safety of the occupants of the motor vehicle A.

[0054] The system 1 is used to detect the position of one or more reference points B and to compare that value with the relevant predefined reference position, quantifying the deviation between the two values.

[0055] On the basis of the outcome of these operations, it can be determined whether it is necessary to subject the motor vehicle A to repair procedures aimed to reestablish the predefined reference positions of the reference points B.

[0056] The system 1 comprises at least one metering device 2.

[0057] The metering device 2 is adapted to detect at least one position data item of at least one reference point B of the motor vehicle A.

[0058] The metering device 2 is provided with at least one basic body 3 associable with a supporting structure C.

[0059] With particular reference to the embodiment shown in the figures, the basic body 3 has a substantially plate-shaped conformation.

[0060] Still with particular reference to the preferred embodiment shown in the figures, the supporting structure C is of the type of a turret element C which is arranged in support of the ground.

[0061] The turret element C shown in the figures comprises a main body D having a substantially tubular conformation and arranged, in use, substantially vertically.

[0062] The turret element C comprises ground movement means E which are associated inferiorly with the main body D and allow moving the turret element C on the floor.

[0063] Preferably, the movement means E comprise a plurality of wheels E arranged to rest on the ground and rotatable around a substantially horizontal axis.

[0064] Again, the main body D comprises an upper portion F and a lower portion G associated in a sliding manner along an axis of sliding substantially parallel to the axis of longitudinal development of the main body D.

[0065] By moving the upper portion F with respect to the lower portion G, the length of the main body D can be changed.

[0066] In the particular embodiment in Figure 1, the basic body 3 is attached superiorly to the upper portion F.

[0067] According to the alternative embodiment shown in Figure 5, however, the turret element C comprises at least one extension element H associated with the main body D in a removable manner and the basic body 3 is attached superiorly to the extension element H.

[0068] In other words, the extension element H can be placed between the main body D and the basic body 3.

[0069] When the extension element H is placed between the main body D and the basic body 3, it is adapted to place the basic body 3 at a higher height from the ground than when the extension element H is not present; in actual facts, the extension element H allows the metering device 2 to be placed at an elevated position and allows it to be used even with very high motor vehicles A, e.g. vans and trucks.

[0070] It is also possible to provide a plurality of extension elements H that differ in length, so that the turret element C can be adapted according to the use and type of the motor vehicle A.

[0071] As can be seen from the figures, the basic body 3 is arranged substantially horizontally when mounted on the main body D.

[0072] Due to the presence of the movement means E, it is possible to move the metering device 2 locked together with the turret element C when associated.

[0073] By sliding the upper portion F with respect to the lower portion G, it is possible to change the height of the metering device 2 when associated with the turret element C.

[0074] In this way, it is possible to vary the position of the metering device 2 with respect to the motor vehicle A so as to bring the same metering device 2 closer to the reference point B, the position of which is to be measured.

[0075] Once the most suitable placement of the metering device 2 for detecting the position of the reference point B has been achieved, the rotation of the wheels E and the sliding of the upper portion F with respect to the lower portion G should be blocked.

[0076] It is worth noting that alternative uses of the system 1 are provided wherein the supporting structure C with which the basic body 3 is associated is of a different type and, e.g., of the type of a horizontal workbench or a vertical building wall.

[0077] The metering device 2 is provided with at least one connecting arm 4 of the articulated type provided with a first end 5, associated with the basic body 3, and with a second end 6, opposite the first end 5.

[0078] The connecting arm 4 comprises: a plurality of connecting stretches 7, 8, 9, 10, 11; and a plurality of angular connecting joints 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 adapted to mutually connect the connecting stretches 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and the first end 5 to the basic body 3.

[0079] Conveniently, the plurality of connecting stretches 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 comprises at least a first connecting stretch 7, provided with the first end 5, at least a second connecting stretch 8, associated with the first connecting stretch 7 on the opposite side with respect to the first end 5, at least a third connecting stretch 9, associated with the second connecting stretch 8 on the opposite side with respect to the first connecting stretch 7, at least a fourth connecting stretch 10, associated with the third connecting stretch 9 on the opposite side with respect to the second connecting stretch 8, at least a fifth connecting stretch 11, associated with the fourth connecting stretch 10 on the opposite side with respect to the third connecting stretch 9 and provided with the second end 6.

[0080] With special reference to the particular embodiment shown in the figures, the first connecting stretch 7, the second connecting stretch 8, the third connecting stretch 9 and the fourth connecting stretch 10 have a substantially tubular conformation.

[0081] Advantageously, the plurality of angular connecting joints 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 comprises: at least a first angular connecting joint 12 defining a first axis of rotation 17 and adapted to connect the basic body 3 to the first connecting stretch 7; at least a second angular connecting joint 13 defining a second axis of rotation 18 and adapted to connect the first connecting stretch 7 to the second connecting stretch 8; at least a third angular connecting joint 14 defining a third axis of rotation 19 and adapted to connect the second connecting stretch 8 to the third connecting stretch 9; at least a fourth angular connecting joint 15 defining a fourth axis of rotation 20 and adapted to connect the third connecting stretch 9 to the fourth connecting stretch 10; at least a fifth angular connecting joint 16 defining a fifth axis of rotation 21 and adapted to connect the fourth connecting stretch 10 to the fifth connecting stretch 11.

[0082] The first angular connecting joint 12, the second angular connecting joint 13 and the third angular connecting joint 14 are, preferably, of the cylindrical joint type.

[0083] The first axis of rotation 17, the second axis of rotation 18 and the third axis of rotation 19 are substantially orthogonal to the basic body 3, to the first connecting stretch 7 and to the second connecting stretch 8.

[0084] The first axis of rotation 17, the second axis of rotation 18 and the third axis of rotation 19 are substantially parallel to the third connecting stretch 9.

[0085] With particular reference to the preferred embodiment shown in the figures, the first axis of rotation 17, the second axis of rotation 18 and the third axis of rotation 19 are substantially vertical. Still with reference to the figures, the first connecting stretch 7 and the second connecting stretch 8 are substantially horizontal.

[0086] Again, with reference to the preferred embodiment shown in the figures, the third connecting stretch 9 is substantially vertical.

[0087] The fourth angular connecting joint 15, as can be seen in the figures, comprises a fork element 15a, associated with the third connecting stretch 9, a connecting hole 15b, defined on the fourth connecting stretch 10, and a pin element 15c, adapted to connect the fork element 15a to the connecting hole 15b.

[0088] The connecting hole 15b is substantially orthogonal to the fourth axis of rotation 20.

[0089] The pin element 15c is substantially parallel to the fourth axis of rotation 20.

[0090] With particular reference to the embodiment shown in the figures, the fourth axis of rotation 20 is substantially horizontal.

[0091] The fifth angular connecting joint 16 is of the type of a pivot joint running substantially parallel to the fifth axis of rotation 21. The fifth axis of rotation 21 is substantially parallel to the fourth connecting stretch 10.

[0092] The metering device 2 is provided with at least one ferrule element 22 associated with the second end 6 and adapted to sense the position of at least one reference point B of a crashed motor vehicle A.

[0093] With particular reference to the preferred embodiment shown in the figures, the ferrule element 22 has a substantially elongated conformation and is provided with an extremal portion 22a which can be positioned to contact the reference point B to be tested.

[0094] Preferably, the extremal portion 22a has a substantially rounded conformation.

[0095] The connecting arm 4 comprises at least one angular articulated body 23 adapted to connect the second end 6 to the ferrule element 22.

[0096] Conveniently, the angular articulated body 23 defines a sixth axis of rotation 24.

[0097] With particular reference to the embodiment shown in the figures, the angular articulated body 23 comprises at least one fork body pivoted to the fifth connecting stretch 11 via a connecting pin, which is not shown in the figures for pure representational simplicity.

[0098] The connecting pin is substantially parallel to the sixth axis of rotation 24.

[0099] Preferably, the sixth axis of rotation 24 is substantially orthogonal to the fourth connecting stretch 10.

[0100] The ferrule element 22 can rotate with respect to the fifth connecting stretch 11 and can take on the desired angular position depending on the position of the reference point B to be tested.

[0101] Preferably, the connecting arm 4 comprises at least one braking element 25 positioned between the angular articulated body 23 and the fifth connecting stretch 11.

[0102] The braking element 25 is adapted to create friction between the angular articulated body 23 and the fifth connecting stretch 11 in order to block the ferrule element 22 into a certain angular position when it is not manually moved by an operator O; in other words, the frictional force produced by the braking element 25 is such that it keeps the ferrule element 22 stationary at the position where it is left by the operator O and, in actual facts, is calibrated to resist the force generated by its own weight.

[0103] Preferably, the braking element 25 has a substantially annular conformation and is substantially centered at the sixth axis of rotation 24.

[0104] Even more preferably, the braking element 25 is made, at least partly, of rubbery material.

[0105] During the use of the system 1, the operator O initially positions the ferrule element 22 at the reference point B, the position of which is to be detected.

[0106] To do this, the operator O can rotate the first connecting stretch 7 with respect to the basic body 3 around the first axis of rotation 17 and / or the second connecting stretch 8 with respect to the first connecting stretch 7 around the second axis of rotation 18 and / or the third connecting stretch 9 with respect to the second connecting stretch 8 around the third axis of rotation 19 and / or the fourth connecting stretch 10 with respect to the third connecting stretch 9 around the fourth axis of rotation 20 and / or the fifth connecting stretch 11 with respect to the fourth connecting stretch 10 around the fifth axis of rotation 21.

[0107] Additionally, the operator O can rotate the ferrule element 22 with respect to the fifth connecting stretch 11 around the sixth axis of rotation 24.

[0108] The operator O performs the aforementioned rotary -type movements until it is possible to position the ferrule element 22, and specifically the extremal portion 22a thereof, on the reference point B to be tested.

[0109] Conveniently, the metering device 2 comprises at least one control device operationally connected to the ferrule element 22 and employable by the operator O to make the ferrule element 22 perform the metering of the position of the reference point B.

[0110] The control device is not shown in the figures for pure representational simplicity and, for example, is of the type of a push-button keypad.

[0111] Conveniently, the system 1 comprises at least one electronic control unit 26 operationally connected to the metering device 2 and operationally configured to carry out at least the steps of: receiving at least one position data item, sensed by the ferrule element 22 and related with the position of the reference point B; processing at least one result, related with the position data item and indicative of the correct placement or of the incorrect placement of the reference point B.

[0112] Advantageously, the electronic control unit 26 is operationally configured to store a predefined reference position for the reference point B being tested and to compare the position data item sensed by the ferrule element 22 with that predefined reference position.

[0113] The result processed by the electronic control unit 26 is indicative of the deviation between the position data item sensed by the ferrule element 22 and the predefined reference position.

[0114] As previously mentioned, based on this result it is possible to determine whether to intervene or not on the motor vehicle A.

[0115] Preferably and as visible from the figures, the electronic control unit is of the type of a computer on which a computer program or software program is loaded, configured to perform the operations and steps necessary for the proper operation of the system 1.

[0116] The computer comprises user interface means 27 operationally configured to enable the exchange of information between the operator O and the electronic control unit 26 itself.

[0117] For example, the user interface means 27 can be used by the operator O to store on the electronic control unit 26 the predefined reference positions of the motor vehicle A to be tested.

[0118] Again, the user interface means 27 are adapted to make the result processed by the electronic control unit 26 viewable by the operator O.

[0119] With particular reference to the embodiment shown in the figures, the user interface means 27 comprise a keyboard and a display.

[0120] The system 1 comprises connection means 28 of the electronic type adapted to allow the passage of data between the metering device 2 and the electronic control unit 26.

[0121] For example, through the connection means 28 the transfer of the position data item sensed by the ferrule element 22 to the electronic control unit 26 takes place.

[0122] With particular reference to the particular embodiment shown in the figures, the connection means 28 comprise at least one electrical connection element.

[0123] Preferably, the electrical connection element is of the type of an electric cable.

[0124] Alternative embodiments of the system 1 cannot however be ruled out, wherein the connection means 28 are of a different type and, e.g., comprise a wireless-type data transmission device.

[0125] As previously mentioned, in order to position the ferrule element 22 where the reference point B to be tested is located, the operator O moves the connecting arm 4 in rotation with respect to the basic body 3 and / or the connecting stretches 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 mutually with each other and / or the ferrule element 22 with respect to the same connecting arm 4.

[0126] In order to obtain an accurate and meaningful position data item, it is necessary to refer it to a fixed metering and reference system, which is obtained by knowing the exact angular position taken on by the angular connecting joints 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and by the angular articulated body 23.

[0127] The connecting arm 4 comprises a plurality of position sensors 29, 30, 31, 32, 33 of the electronic type associated with the angular connecting joints 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and adapted to sense the angular position thereof.

[0128] According to the invention, the connecting arm 4 comprises at least one position sensing element 34 of the electronic type associated with the angular articulated body 23 and adapted to sense the angular position thereof.

[0129] The position sensors 29, 30, 31, 32, 33 and the position sensing element 34 enable automatic sensing of the angular position of the angular connecting joints 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and of the angular articulated body 23, thus simplifying the metering operations and obtaining a more correct result than in the prior art.

[0130] Conveniently, the plurality of position sensors 29, 30, 31, 32, 33 comprises at least a first position sensor 29, associated with the first angular connecting joint 12, at least a second position sensor 30, associated with the second angular connecting joint 13, at least a third position sensor 31, associated with the third angular connecting joint 14, at least a fourth position sensor 32, associated with the fourth angular connecting joint 15, and at least a fifth position sensor 33, associated with the fifth angular connecting joint 16. With particular reference to the preferred embodiment shown in the figures, the first angular connecting joint 12, the second angular connecting joint 13 and the third angular connecting joint 14 define respective housing compartments 35 adapted to house the first position sensor 29, the second position sensor 30 and the third position sensor 31, respectively.

[0131] Again, the first angular connecting joint 12, the second angular connecting joint 13 and the third angular connecting joint 14 are provided with respective opening / closing elements 36 adapted to allow / prevent the access from the outside to the housing compartments 35 in order to perform any maintenance work on the first position sensor 29 and / or on the second position sensor 30 and / or on the third position sensor 31.

[0132] Preferably, the first position sensor 29 consists of a first encoder 37, the second position sensor 30 consists of a second encoder 38, the third position sensor 31 consists of a third encoder 39, the fourth position sensor 32 consists of a fourth encoder 40, the fifth position sensor 33 consists of a fifth encoder 41, the position sensing element 34 consists of a sixth encoder 42.

[0133] Conveniently, each of the encoders 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42 is operationally configured to process at least one angular positioning data item of the electrical type relating to the angular position of the respective angular connecting joint 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 and of the angular articulated body 23.

[0134] Advantageously, the system 1 comprises at least one electronic communication device 43 operationally connected to the encoders 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42 and to the electronic control unit 26 and operationally configured to transfer the angular positioning data from the encoders 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42 to the electronic control unit 26.

[0135] The electronic communication device 43 is associated with the first angular connecting joint 12.

[0136] In detail, the electronic communication device 43 is positioned internally to the housing compartment 35 defined by the first angular connecting joint 12.

[0137] The electronic communication device 43 is operationally connected to the electronic control unit 26 through the connection means 28.

[0138] The electronic communication device 43 is of the type of an electronic board.

[0139] The system 1 comprises a plurality of electrical connection bodies adapted to transfer the angular positioning data from the encoders 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42 to the electronic communication device 43.

[0140] The electrical connection bodies, preferably, are of the electrical connection cable type and are housed internally to the connecting arm 4.

[0141] Conveniently, the system 1 comprises first blocking means, not shown in detail in the figures, adapted to allow the rotation of the second connecting stretch 8 with respect to the first connecting stretch 7 around the second axis of rotation 18 by an angle of between 0° and 320°.

[0142] Advantageously, the system 1 comprises second blocking means, not shown in detail in the figures, adapted to allow the rotation of the third connecting stretch 9 with respect to the second connecting stretch 8 around the third axis of rotation 19 by an angle of between 0° and 320°.

[0143] Conveniently, the system 1 comprises third blocking means, not shown in detail in the figures, adapted to allow the rotation of the fourth connecting stretch 10 with respect to the third connecting stretch 9 around the fourth axis of rotation 20 by an angle of between 0° and 180°.

[0144] Advantageously, the system 1 comprises fourth blocking means, not shown in detail in the figures, adapted to allow the rotation of the fifth connecting stretch 11 with respect to the fourth connecting stretch 10 around the fifth axis of rotation 21 by an angle of between 0° and 220°.

[0145] Conveniently, the system 1 comprises fifth blocking means, not shown in detail in the figures, adapted to allow the rotation of the ferrule element 22 with respect to the fifth connecting stretch 11 around the sixth axis of rotation 24 by an angle of between 0° and 180°.

[0146] The presence of the first blocking means, of the second blocking means, of the third blocking means, of the fourth blocking means and of the fifth blocking means allows the connecting stretches 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and the ferrule element 22 to be mutually rotated with respect to the connecting arm 4 without twisting the electrical connection bodies allocated internally to the connecting arm 4, thus avoiding damage or shearing thereof.

[0147] Conveniently, the system 1 comprises at least one storage device 44 adapted to store the electrical energy and to electrically power the metering device 2.

[0148] The storage device 44 is associated with the first angular connecting joint 12.

[0149] The storage device 44 is of the type of a battery.

[0150] Preferably, the storage device 44 is housed within the housing compartment 35 defined by the first angular connecting joint 12.

[0151] The special technical choice of placing the electronic communication device 43 and the storage device 44 within the housing compartment 35 defined by the first angular connecting joint 12 makes it considerably easier to service the same electronic communication device 43 and the same storage device 44.

[0152] Preferably, the first connecting stretch 7, the second connecting stretch 8 and the fourth connecting stretch 10 are made, at least partly, of carbon fiber.

[0153] The choice of this particular construction material is made possible by the fact that the electronic communication device 43 and the storage device 44 are housed within the first angular connecting joint 12 and not inside the connecting sections 7, 8, 10, which would also inconveniently require the presence of a special access door that would be extremely difficult, if not impossible, to make of carbon fiber.

[0154] The fact that the first connecting stretch 7, the second connecting stretch 8 and the fourth connecting stretch 10 are made in carbon fiber allows the metering device 2 to be lighter than in the prior art.

[0155] This aspect improves the maneuverability of the metering device 2 by facilitating the placement of the ferrule element 22 where the reference point B to be tested is located.

[0156] Conveniently, the electronic control unit 26 is operationally configured to carry out at least one processing step of at least one interface screen 45, viewable by the operator O and bearing at least one piece of information about the angular positioning of the encoders 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42 and / or at least one error code related with a malfunction of at least one of the encoders 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42.

[0157] Figure 4 shows in schematic form the interface screen 45 processed by the electronic control unit 26 wherein a schematic representation of the metering device 2 and a table wherein for each of the encoders 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42 the relevant angular positioning data item, in the form of sexagesimal degrees, is shown.

[0158] The schematic representation of the metering device 2 is of the type of a broken line consisting of a set of vector strokes, each of which schematically represents a respective connecting stretch of the connecting arm 4 or the ferrule element 22.

[0159] Precisely, such schematic representation can be substantially likened to a top view of the metering device 2 during its use.

[0160] During the placement of the ferrule element 22 where the reference point B to be tested is located, the operator O can see that the orientation and the placement of the different vector strokes change depending on the angular position taken on by the various angular connecting joints 12, 16, 14, 15, 16 and by the angular articulated body 23.

[0161] At the same time, the numerical value of the angular positioning data item of the encoders 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42 shown in the table also varies during the placement of the ferrule element 22 where the reference point B is located.

[0162] In case the electronic control unit 26 senses a malfunction of at least one encoder 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42 it shows an error code, i.e., a debug signal, in the interface screen 45.

[0163] In this way, the operator O is informed almost instantaneously of such malfunction.

[0164] Additionally, the electronic control unit 26 is operationally connectable to an external management server which can sense such an error code and, if necessary, remotely intervene on the malfunctioning encoder 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42.

[0165] This makes it possible to perform any maintenance work on the metering device 2 remotely, without necessarily having to bring the metering device 2 to a dedicated maintenance facility.

[0166] It has, in practice, been ascertained that the described invention achieves the intended objects, and in particular, the fact is emphasized that the presence of the angular articulated body allows the ferrule element to be positioned and blocked at an infinite number of angular positions. In light of this, it is possible to say that the system for the identification of structural damage in crashed motor vehicles allows for an improvement in the placement phase of the ferrule element where the reference points to be tested are located.

[0167] Thanks to the presence of a sixth encoder, placed where the joint is located on which the ferrule element is mounted, it is possible to automatically detect the angular position of the ferrule element, speeding up the acquisition phase of this data item and limiting the occurrence of errors. Still, by positioning the centralized electronic board and the storage battery where the first connection angular joint is located, it is possible to simplify the maintenance of the centralized electronic board and of the storage battery as well as to make the first connecting stretch and the second connecting stretch in a much lighter construction material than aluminum, such as carbon fiber.

[0168] The latter aspect helps to lighten the metering device overall, making it easier to handle.

Claims

CLAIMS1) System (1) for the identification of structural damage in crashed motor vehicles, comprising at least one metering device (2) provided with: at least one basic body (3) associable with a supporting structure (C); at least one connecting arm (4) of the articulated type provided with a first end (5), associated with said basic body (3), and with a second end (6), opposite said first end (5); at least one ferrule element (22) associated with said second end (6) and adapted to sense the position of at least one reference point (B) of a crashed motor vehicle (A); wherein said connecting arm (4) comprises: a plurality of connecting stretches (7, 8, 9, 10, 11); a plurality of angular connecting joints (12, 13, 14, 15, 16) adapted to mutually connect said connecting stretches (7, 8, 9, 10, 11) and said first end (5) to said basic body (3); a plurality of position sensors (29, 30, 31, 32, 33) of the electronic type associated with said angular connecting joints (12, 13, 14, 15, 16) and adapted to sense the angular position thereof; at least one angular articulated body (23) adapted to connect said second end (6) to said ferrule element (22); characterized by the fact that said connecting arm (4) comprises at least one position sensing element (34) of the electronic type associated with said angular articulated body (23) and adapted to sense the angular position thereof.2) System (1) according to claim 1, characterized by the fact that it comprises at least one electronic control unit (26) operationally connected to said metering device (2) and operationally configured to carry out at least the steps of: receiving at least one position data item, sensed by said ferrule element (22) and related with the position of said reference point (B); processing at least one result, related with said position data item and indicative of the correct placement or of the incorrect placement of said reference point (B).3) System (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that said plurality of connecting stretches (7, 8, 9, 10, 11) comprises at least a first connecting stretch (7), provided with said first end (5), at least a second connecting stretch (8), associated with said first connecting stretch (7) on the opposite side with respect to said first end (5), at least a third connecting stretch (9) associated with said second connecting stretch (8) on the opposite side with respect to said first connecting stretch (7), at least a fourth connecting stretch (10), associated with said third connecting stretch (9) on the opposite side with respect to said second connecting stretch (8), at least a fifth connecting stretch (11), associated with said fourth connecting stretch (10) on the opposite side with respect to said third connecting stretch (9) and provided with said secondend (6).4) System (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that said plurality of angular connecting joints (12, 13, 14, 15, 16) comprises: at least a first angular connecting joint (12) defining a first axis of rotation (17) and adapted to connect said basic body (3) to said first connecting stretch (7); at least a second angular connecting joint (13) defining a second axis of rotation (18) and adapted to connect said first connecting stretch (7) to said second connecting stretch (8); at least a third angular connecting joint (14) defining a third axis of rotation (19) and adapted to connect said second connecting stretch (8) to said third connecting stretch (9); at least a fourth angular connecting joint (15) defining a fourth axis of rotation (20) and adapted to connect said third connecting stretch (9) to said fourth connecting stretch (10); at least a fifth angular connecting joint (16) defining a fifth axis of rotation (21) and adapted to connect said fourth connecting stretch (10) to said fifth connecting stretch (11); and by the fact that said angular articulated body (23) defines a sixth axis of rotation (24).5) System (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that said plurality of position sensors (29, 30, 31, 32, 33) comprises at least a first position sensor (29), associated with said first angular connecting joint (12), at least a second position sensor (30), associated with said second angular connecting joint (13), at least a third position sensor (31), associated with said third angular connecting joint (14), at least a fourth position sensor (32), associated with said fourth angular connecting joint (15), and at least a fifth position sensor (33), associated with said fifth angular connecting joint (16).6) System (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that said first position sensor (29) consists of a first encoder (37), said second position sensor (30) consists of a second encoder (38), said third position sensor (31) consists of a third encoder (39), said fourth position sensor (32) consists of a fourth encoder (40), said fifth position sensor (33) consists of a fifth encoder (41), said position sensing element (34) consists of a sixth encoder (42), each of said encoders (37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42) being operationally configured to process at least one angular positioning data item of the electrical type relating to the angular position of said respective angular connecting joint (12, 13, 14, 15, 16) and of said angular articulated body (23).7) System (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that it comprises at least one electronic communication device (43) operationally connected to said encoders (37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42) and to said electronic control unit (26) and operationally configured to transfer said angular positioning data from said encoders (37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42) to said electronic control unit (26), said electronic communication device (43) being associated with said first angular connecting joint (12).8) System (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that it comprises at least one storage device (44) adapted to store electrical energy and to electrically power said metering device (2), said storage device (44) being associated with said first angular connecting joint (12). 9) System (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that said first connecting stretch (7), said second connecting stretch (8) and said fourth connecting stretch (10) are made, at least partly, of carbon fiber.10) System (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized by the fact that said electronic control unit (26) is operationally configured to carry out at least one processing step of at least one interface screen (45), viewable by an operator (O) and reporting at least one piece of information about the angular positioning of said encoders (37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42) and / or at least one error code related with a malfunction of at least one of said encoders (37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42).

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