EP1254434B1 - Automatic fee charging system - Google Patents

Automatic fee charging system Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP1254434B1
EP1254434B1 EP01905472A EP01905472A EP1254434B1 EP 1254434 B1 EP1254434 B1 EP 1254434B1 EP 01905472 A EP01905472 A EP 01905472A EP 01905472 A EP01905472 A EP 01905472A EP 1254434 B1 EP1254434 B1 EP 1254434B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
mobile
dsrc
dsrc communication
unit
communication device
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP01905472A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP1254434A1 (en
Inventor
Helmut Rieder
Raimund Pammer
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Efkon GmbH
Original Assignee
Efkon GmbH
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Efkon GmbH filed Critical Efkon GmbH
Priority to AT01905472T priority Critical patent/ATE246384T1/en
Publication of EP1254434A1 publication Critical patent/EP1254434A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP1254434B1 publication Critical patent/EP1254434B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B15/00—Arrangements or apparatus for collecting fares, tolls or entrance fees at one or more control points
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07B—TICKET-ISSUING APPARATUS; FARE-REGISTERING APPARATUS; FRANKING APPARATUS
    • G07B15/00—Arrangements or apparatus for collecting fares, tolls or entrance fees at one or more control points
    • G07B15/06—Arrangements for road pricing or congestion charging of vehicles or vehicle users, e.g. automatic toll systems
    • G07B15/063—Arrangements for road pricing or congestion charging of vehicles or vehicle users, e.g. automatic toll systems using wireless information transmission between the vehicle and a fixed station

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a system for automatically charging fees when passing of predetermined positions with at least one for an at least temporarily stationary installation provided communication device for directional short-range communication (DSRC) and with at least one mobile communication unit for directional short-range communication (DSRC), the DSRC communication device provided for the fixed installation for sending them and identifying their placement position Information to the mobile DSRC communication unit is set up.
  • a system is used, for example, to collect road tolls or parking fees.
  • a system for collecting tolls from vehicles is known from WO 99/33027 A, in the case of the so-called “virtual" toll stations that are used with vehicle-side devices enter bidirectional communication when passing the vehicles. Doing so information regarding the position of the vehicles via a system such as GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System - global navigation satellite system) or GPS (Global Positioning System - global positioning system) of the vehicle-side device. The payment process is by linking the position information and that in one device saved data.
  • GNSS Global Navigation Satellite System - global navigation satellite system
  • GPS Global Positioning System - global positioning system
  • the main disadvantage here is that the location of the vehicles is only relatively imprecise and unreliable and also the determination and comparison with the virtual toll station leaves something to be desired; they are also for this system necessary equipment complex and expensive.
  • Identification is also carried out the vehicle-side communication unit using e.g. a smart card that comes with a request is read out by the fixed toll station, whereby the associated vehicle is identified.
  • the fixed toll station also communicates with a central computer system, to handle the charges. But this is a relatively large effort in terms of of the various identifications and communications required.
  • WO 99/66455 A describes a roadside control device for one in one Vehicle installed toll device known.
  • a GPS device is used to determine the position available, so that the roadside control device via GPS at their respective installation location can be recognized or identified.
  • a special directional short-range communication procedure (DSRC-Dedicated Short Range Communication), especially using microwaves, for communication with a vehicle-side unit (so-called "OBU" - On Board Unit) is in the WO 99/25087 A disclosed, a gradual adjustment of the degree of modulation in the Modulation of a carrier wave is made. It is also a bidirectional one Communication between fixed devices (beacons) and vehicle-side units, whereby nothing is said about the acquisition of position information.
  • the system of the type specified at the outset is characterized in that the DSRC communication device intended for the fixed installation and the mobile one DSRC communication device with infrared transmission or reception devices are that the DSRC communication device provided for the fixed installation is set up, along with the information identifying them and their position charge information taken from a memory to the mobile DSRC communication unit to transmit, and that the mobile DSRC communication unit a fee determination unit to determine the respective fee based on that of the for the fixed Installation provided DSRC communication device transmitted fee information and a booking unit for booking the determined fee in a value account assigned.
  • fixed DSRC communication device transmits corresponding identification and thus location information; this information enable a clear identification of these fixed communication devices and thus at least indirectly their position.
  • the fixed communication facilities can work autonomously or asynchronously, i.e. they don't need to be connected, and they preferably work only in broadcast mode, so that for position determination or location unidirectional DSRC communication is sufficient.
  • the present system is suitable in excellent for use in both open and closed toll systems or also in parking systems, where the actual charge, the payment process, accomplished via a wide variety of media, depending on the system operator's wishes such as cards and card readers at petrol stations or other paying agents.
  • the fixed communication devices only have a sending function, they no data from the mobile communication units, e.g. in vehicles must, they can be very simple and therefore very inexpensive. This also contributes the elimination of storage functions for sensitive data such as data relating to fee amounts or vehicle data.
  • the fee is calculated once you pass a fixed one Communication device or after passing (entry and exit) of two such Communication equipment. Appropriate techniques or programs for this are on are common and need not be explained further here.
  • Toll fees or the like are in the present system from the fixed DSRC communication device with the information that uniquely identifies them, as well as position information transmitted via their place of installation.
  • the position information can be depending on the fee collection system, for example, in the details of the respective fixed Communication device designating numbers or the like exist, with the charge calculation based on the numbers on the corresponding positions and then the fee amount can be determined.
  • the mobile DSRC communication unit is accordingly one - e.g.
  • a processor - fee determination unit to determine the respective fee on the basis of the fixed DSRC communication device assigned fee information assigned, and the determined Fee can then be placed on a value account using the booking unit, in particular within the mobile or on-board unit (also called OBU - On Board Unit) the value account will be changed.
  • the mobile or on-board unit also called OBU - On Board Unit
  • the DSRC communication device or DSRC communication unit with an infrared transmission or receiving device is formed.
  • the fixed DSRC communication device has a Clock (e.g. in a processor) and with the clearly identifying information transmitted information indicating the respective time of transmission. This can be due to the parking times are determined by recording the times when entering and exiting.
  • a cryptographic unit is assigned.
  • This cryptographic unit can each provided information, for example with a signature. If the key or constantly changing the signature, it is practically impossible for unauthorized persons to access the received one Information to gain access. Not even the on-board unit can do one here Make decryption only during the actual payment process, e.g.
  • the actual Payment can be made in different ways, such as when charging the Smart Card at a machine or at a correspondingly equipped cash register terminal, at Charging the smart card via a cellular telephone system (GSM, UMTS etc.), or at Smart cards are charged using a DSRC system.
  • the cryptographic unit can in principle also encrypt the information transmitted in each case.
  • the mobile DSRC communication unit a memory for storing the fixed DSRC communication device transmitted information is assigned.
  • a charging unit for any immediate Billing over the fixed facilities has also proven to be useful if the mobile DSRC communication unit with a DSRC transmitter and the DSRC communication device is equipped with a DSRC receiver and the DSRC communication device is assigned a charging unit.
  • the mobile DSRC communication unit has a mobile radio device assigned. It is conceivable and often with a view to high flexibility of the system favorable if the mobile DSRC communication unit with the mobile radio device via an at least monodirectional, preferably bidirectional DSRC communication device communicates. On the other hand, it is to achieve a compact Vehicle-side unit (OBU) is an advantage if the mobile DSRC communication unit is directly connected to the mobile radio device in one unit, preferably to it in one common housing is housed.
  • OBU Vehicle-side unit
  • the mobile radio device for transmitting information to a central data processing system is set up. If necessary, this radio transmission can also be used for charging be used via the central data processing system.
  • the mobile radio device is a mobile phone with a hands-free system.
  • the electrical connection point e.g. a connector
  • the mobile radio device i.e. the mobile phone
  • the speakerphone can be set up so that the mobile DSRC communication unit this connection point can be connected.
  • This communication link can be upright when the speakerphone jack is not in use.
  • the information on the respective fixed DSRC communication device easy to update, it is also advantageous if the fixed DSRC communication device a mobile radio device is assigned.
  • the fixed DSRC communication devices can be equipped with their own batteries be, and there can in principle also be connections to the power grid with corresponding power supplies available.
  • the respective stationary communication device is preferably for an autonomous energy supply provided with a solar energy device for power supply.
  • the Solar energy is supplied to a rechargeable battery.
  • the DSRC communication device is used to carry out a Self-tests, e.g. to control the power supply or the function of the communication device, is set up.
  • a Self-test e.g. to control the power supply or the function of the communication device.
  • Fig. 1 is schematically as a preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention a road toll system is shown, a toll road 1 being illustrated vehicles 2 are to be recorded with regard to the collection of toll fees.
  • the present charging system on-board units 3 such a vehicle-side Unit 3 in Fig. 1 for better illustration in an interrupted Lines shown block is shown separately; furthermore belong to the system at least temporarily Fixed beacons 4 with DSRC communication facilities (DSRC - dedicated short range communication) are.
  • DSRC - dedicated short range communication
  • These beacons 4 can be stationary, for example anchored in the ground Columns, but mobile beacons can also be provided, which can be tolled as required Transported route and temporarily stationary at the desired location be set up.
  • the (temporarily) fixed DSRC communication facilities are with infrared transmission devices 5 equipped with a few infrared signals (information A) Coat sector-wide location area 6 that extends for meters. Infrared radiation is incoherent and therefore there is no cancellation due to the superimposition of signals.
  • the vehicle-side units 3 contain a (mobile) DSRC communication unit, in particular with a suitable infrared receiver, cf. for example also WO 99/03218 A, in which an example of a suitable IR receiver is shown and this mobile DSRC communication unit is illustrated at 7 in FIG.
  • the system is only with stationary transmitters DSRC transmit beacons 4 and with receiving mobile DSRC communication units 7 equipped, these mobile communication units 7 a fee calculation and booking unit 8 is assigned, as shown schematically in Fig.1.
  • This booking unit 8 can be implemented by a processor in a conventional manner. It can also mobile DSRC communication unit 7 with a cryptographic unit or an encryption unit be equipped, which is not shown in Figure 1, see. but Fig.2, where a such a cryptographic unit is illustrated at 9.
  • This cryptographic unit 9 serves for example, the location information or data to be sent or received - Which are sent by the fixed beacons 4 - with a constantly changing signature in order to make the system secure against unauthorized access.
  • the OBU 3 itself determines from the received beacon location data the stored in it in a memory, not shown, belonging to the microprocessor 8 Data regarding the vehicle category etc. the respective fee due, cf. the one with B designated information flow in Fig. 1 and 2. This fee is then charged by one in the OBU 3 existing value account debited, whereby the value account, for example, from a value card, namely smart card or SIM card, or can be realized by a chip.
  • a mobile radio device is in each case
  • the vehicle is additionally provided, as is schematically illustrated at 10 in FIGS. 1 and 2.
  • This Mobile radio device 10 can be operated using an essentially conventional mobile telephone (GSM, UMTS etc.) can be formed, and it can be independent of the actual OBU 3 or but be united with it into one unit.
  • the OBU 3 and the mobile radio device are preferred 10 even housed in a common housing, being common usable components, such as processors, can be used, even if in FIG. 1 and 2 a separate processor 11 (with a memory 11 ') is shown for the mobile radio device 10 is connected to a SIM card unit 12.
  • the actual radio transmission unit for sending and receiving is illustrated at 13 in FIG.
  • the mobile radio device 10 receives, if it is a separate unit, for example via a DSRC system or via a connecting line signals or information C from the OBU 3 supplied, as shown schematically in Fig. 2 at 14.
  • the connecting line 14 in The interior of the housing must be short, for example on a conventional printed circuit board.
  • the processors 8 and 11 can also be realized by a single processor.
  • a central data processing system 15 be provided, on the one hand, for the transmission of information Q about the stationary beacons 4 and on the other hand at least for receiving information D from the vehicle-side units 3 is set up.
  • the central data processing device 15 can also data or information Q provided with corresponding address codes to the fixed beacons 4 send in order to send data stored there, e.g. regarding position, fee tariff, times etc. To update. It can also be provided that 4 information, from the fixed beacons, about the traffic that arises (counting the passing vehicles) to central data processing system 15 are transmitted.
  • the location information A the are sent from the beacons 4 to the vehicles 2 or vehicle-side units 3 the respective beacon 4 uniquely identifying data so as to unambiguously locate or To enable position determination for vehicles 2.
  • the stationary beacons 4 contain for actuation the respective communication device 5 (with the infrared transmitter) a processor 16 (e.g. ⁇ P microprocessor) with an associated, only schematically drawn memory 16 ', the contains respective identification or position information.
  • the processor 16 also controls a radio device 17, which transmits the information Q to or from the central Data processing device 15 performs.
  • the processor 16 also contains a clock 16 " (Clock generator), so that information indicating the respective time of transmission is also transmitted can be.
  • a solar cell device 18 is provided, the corresponding rechargeable battery associated with charger (not shown) in a conventional manner; such solar energy devices are well known per se, so that a detailed description is unnecessary here can.
  • the beacons 4 are extremely simple, which is related to the fact that that as far as the communication with the vehicles 2 is concerned, they only have a sending function need, so they do not have to receive data from vehicles 2. This also eliminates the Necessity of storing such sensitive data, such as fee amounts and vehicle data, so that there is also a simplification in this regard.
  • the infrared transmitter unit can be in in a conventional manner with infrared transmit diodes and an optical bundling unit be educated; the processor 16 forms the control electronics including the memory 16 ', and the radio device 17 can be a GSM transceiver for remote maintenance and administration, for example his.
  • the beacons 4 can then be set up accordingly in order to Receive charge data and send it to the central data processing device 15.
  • the beacons 4 are, as mentioned, only for the transmission mode set up, whereby the ongoing transmission of the beacons 4 is unambiguous in each case identifying information (information A) is to be viewed.
  • the beacons 4 can completely operate autonomously and asynchronously, and they can A each for a unique location to be identified to calculate the required fees perform.
  • the information A can also, as mentioned, the respective time of passing the Transferring vehicle-recording information in order to determine the duration of the parking time can.
  • Such time information can also be used in toll systems - for example for control purposes - be useful so that they are also preferably sent out there.
  • the information A sent already contains fee information, data being transmitted, for example, on the basis of these in the vehicle-side units 3 the respective fees are determined with the aid of tables stored there, however, the required fee amounts can also be transmitted directly.
  • the latter can be used with particular advantage for open toll systems.
  • the central data processing device 15 contains radio devices 19, 20 for the radio connection to the fixed beacons 4 or to the radio devices 13 of the vehicle side Units 3.
  • radio units 19, 20 is a processor 21, in particular one Log file processor unit, which is associated with a memory 22 with a database.
  • the standard OBU 3 can be used without a mobile radio device 10 be carried out, with an infrared receiving unit and a smart card or SIM card unit can be equipped.
  • the OBU 3 can be battery powered, and so can it is, for example, with the help of a clamp in the area of the interior rear-view mirror in the vehicle attached to the center of the windshield. There are no cables to the gauge electronics required. All sensitive data is stored encrypted on the smart card, and this smart card can be read or read via standard cash register terminals and ATMs Loading.
  • the entire OBU 3 from the holder on the windshield is released, and that a smart card chip contained in it, in which the sensitive data are stored outside of the vehicle via accordingly with a POS terminals equipped with an infrared read / write head can be loaded or read.
  • GSM OBU mobile phone
  • this combined OBU 3 is preferred powered by the car battery.
  • all sensitive data are preferably encrypted stored on a smart card chip, reading or loading via the cellular telephone network is possible.
  • the mobile radio device 10 can be equipped with a hands-free device, cf. the Handsfree connector 23 in Fig.2, as well as the scheme in Fig.3, where a cell phone 10 is shown with a connection plug 24 to a hands-free device 25; to the connector 24, the DSRC communication unit 7 'is also connected, the Charging function even with the hands-free device 25 connected by a corresponding one Programming of the processor 11 can be secured.
  • a hands-free device cf. the Handsfree connector 23 in Fig.2, as well as the scheme in Fig.3, where a cell phone 10 is shown with a connection plug 24 to a hands-free device 25; to the connector 24, the DSRC communication unit 7 'is also connected, the Charging function even with the hands-free device 25 connected by a corresponding one Programming of the processor 11 can be secured.
  • vehicle-side device 3 is temporary is removed from the vehicle 2 and 2 information outside the vehicle a special bidirectional DSRC device forwards the billing perform.
  • the processor 16 of the fixed beacons 4 can also be programmed accordingly (where the program can be stored in the memory 16 ') can be set up to periodically one Carry out a self-test, including the power supply as well as the functionality of the actual sending and receiving means can be tested; likewise the memory 16 ' be subjected to a test yourself.
  • the radio device 17 can - provided that it is still functional and equipped with an emergency power supply - a fault message to the central data processing device 15.
  • you can the system can also be set up so that the stationary beacons 4 are periodically, e.g.
  • FIG. 4 The process of such a self-test of the fixed beacon 4 is illustrated in FIG. It is generally indicated in FIG. 4 at 26 that the self-test was triggered while the test was being carried out is illustrated at 27.
  • one of the clocks in the Processor 16 derived time interval information is used, such as "8 a.m. daily” or "every 15 minutes", this triggering being illustrated at 28 in FIG.
  • Block 30 is intended to indicate in general terms: that there can be other trigger options.
  • the power supply can first be tested, see Block 31 in Fig. 4. Then the actual transmitter unit (see item 5 in Fig. 2) tested, in particular to what extent the infrared diodes of the transmitter unit are ready for operation are (block 32). According to block 33, a test regarding the integrity of the memory can then be carried out 16 'and the processor 16, etc. are carried out. The decision at 34 is indicated in FIG. whether the checked units are OK (output J) or not (output N). If the test result is positive, a transition is made to a loop 35 and to the next triggering 26 waited to then start the self-test again at position A '. In case that a malfunction is detected, a message is sent to a maintenance center according to block 36, e.g. the central data processing device 15 according to FIGS. 1 and 2.
  • a maintenance center e.g. the central data processing device 15 according to FIGS. 1 and 2.

Landscapes

  • Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • Finance (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Computer Networks & Wireless Communication (AREA)
  • Devices For Checking Fares Or Tickets At Control Points (AREA)
  • Mobile Radio Communication Systems (AREA)

Abstract

The invention relates to a system for automatically charging fees when predetermined positions are passed. Said system comprises at least one communication device (4) for dedicated short range communication (DSRC) that is intended for an at least temporary local placement, and at least one mobile communication unit (7) for dedicated short range communication. The dedicated short range communication device (4) that is intended for the local placement is equipped to transmit information identifying itself and at least indirectly its position to the mobile DSRC communication unit (7).

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft ein System zum automatischen Verrechnen von Gebühren beim Passieren von vorgegebenen Positionen mit wenigstens einer für eine zumindest zeitweise ortsfeste Aufstellung vorgesehenen Kommunikationseinrichtung für gerichtete Nahbereichskommunikation (DSRC) und mit wenigstens einer mobilen Kommunikationseinheit für gerichtete Nahbereichskommunikation (DSRC), wobei die für die ortsfeste Aufstellung vorgesehene DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtung zum Senden von sie und ihre Aufstellungsposition identifizierenden Informationen an die mobile DSRC-Kommunikationseinheit eingerichtet ist. Ein solches System wird beispielsweise zum Einheben von Straßenmaut- oder Parkgebühren eingesetzt.The invention relates to a system for automatically charging fees when passing of predetermined positions with at least one for an at least temporarily stationary installation provided communication device for directional short-range communication (DSRC) and with at least one mobile communication unit for directional short-range communication (DSRC), the DSRC communication device provided for the fixed installation for sending them and identifying their placement position Information to the mobile DSRC communication unit is set up. Such a system is used, for example, to collect road tolls or parking fees.

Ein derartiges System zum automatischen Verrechnen von Gebühren ist aus der US 5 490 079 A bekannt. Dieses Dokument zeigt ein kontaktloses Mauterhebungssystem, welches die zur Ermittlung ggf. als mautpflichtig einzustufender Strecken notwendigen Ortsinformationen per GPS ermittelt. In Gebieten mit unzureichender GPS-Versorgung kann mittels sog. "Signpost-Transmitter-Sensoren" ein herkömmliches, per Funk übertragenes Ortinformationssignal zur Mautbestimmung bzw. -berechnung herangezogen werden. Die Gebührenabrechnung erfolgt mittels einer dritten Funkstrecke im ortsfesten System.Such a system for automatically charging fees is known from US Pat. No. 5,490,079 known. This document shows a contactless toll collection system, which is used for the determination If necessary, location information necessary to be classified as tolls via GPS determined. In areas with insufficient GPS coverage, so-called "sign post transmitter sensors" a conventional location information signal transmitted by radio Toll determination or calculation can be used. The billing is done by means of a third radio link in the fixed system.

Aus der WO 99/33027 A ist ein System zur Einhebung von Mautgebühren von Fahrzeugen bekannt, bei dem sog. "virtuelle" Mautstationen eingesetzt werden, die mit fahrzeugseitigen Einrichtungen beim Passieren der Fahrzeuge in bidirektionelle Kommunikation eintreten. Dabei wird eine Information bezüglich der Position der Fahrzeuge über ein System wie GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System - globales Navigationssatellitensystem) bzw. GPS (Global Positioning System - Globales Positioniersystem) der fahrzeugseitigen Einrichtung übermittelt. Der Bezahlungsvorgang wird durch die Verknüpfung der Positionsinformationen und der in einem Gerät gespeicherten Daten vorgenommen. Von Nachteil ist hier vor allem, dass die Ortung der Fahrzeuge nur relativ ungenau und unzuverlässig ist und auch die Bestimmung und der Vergleich mit der virtuellen Mautstation zu wünschen übrig lässt; darüber hinaus sind die für dieses System erforderlichen Einrichtungen aufwendig und teuer.A system for collecting tolls from vehicles is known from WO 99/33027 A, in the case of the so-called "virtual" toll stations that are used with vehicle-side devices enter bidirectional communication when passing the vehicles. Doing so information regarding the position of the vehicles via a system such as GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System - global navigation satellite system) or GPS (Global Positioning System - global positioning system) of the vehicle-side device. The payment process is by linking the position information and that in one device saved data. The main disadvantage here is that the location of the vehicles is only relatively imprecise and unreliable and also the determination and comparison with the virtual toll station leaves something to be desired; they are also for this system necessary equipment complex and expensive.

Ein ganz ähnliches System ist in der WO 99/48052 A beschrieben. Dabei erfolgt auch eine Identifizierung der fahrzeugseitigen Kommunikationseinheit mit Hilfe z.B. einer Smart Card, die bei einer Anfrage durch die ortsfeste Mautstation ausgelesen wird, wodurch das zugehörige Fahrzeug identifiziert wird. Die ortsfeste Mautstation kommuniziert weiters mit einem zentralen Rechnersystem, um die Vergebührungen abzuwickeln. Dadurch ist aber ein relativ großer Aufwand hinsichtlich der verschiedenen Identifizierungen und Kommunikationen erforderlich.A very similar system is described in WO 99/48052 A. Identification is also carried out the vehicle-side communication unit using e.g. a smart card that comes with a request is read out by the fixed toll station, whereby the associated vehicle is identified. The fixed toll station also communicates with a central computer system, to handle the charges. But this is a relatively large effort in terms of of the various identifications and communications required.

Weiters ist aus der WO 99/66455 A eine straßenseitige Kontrolleinrichtung für ein in einem Fahrzeug installiertes Mautgerät bekannt. Zur Positionsfestlegung ist eine GPS-Einrichtung vorhanden, so dass die straßenseitige Kontrolleinrichtung über GPS an ihrem jeweiligen Aufstellungsort erkannt bzw. identifiziert werden kann. Furthermore, WO 99/66455 A describes a roadside control device for one in one Vehicle installed toll device known. A GPS device is used to determine the position available, so that the roadside control device via GPS at their respective installation location can be recognized or identified.

Ein spezielles gerichtetes Nahbereichs-Kommunikationsverfahren (DSRC-Dedicated Short Range Communication), insbesondere unter Verwendung von Mikrowellen, für die Kommunikation mit einer fahrzeugseitigen Einheit (sog. "OBU" - On Board Unit) ist in der WO 99/25087 A geoffenbart, wobei eine stufenweise Einstellung des Modulationsgrades bei der Modulation einer Trägerwelle vorgenommen wird. Es handelt sich auch hier um eine bidirektionale Kommunikation zwischen ortsfesten Einrichtungen (Baken) und fahrzeugseitigen Einheiten, wobei über die Gewinnung von Positions-Informationen nichts ausgesagt ist.A special directional short-range communication procedure (DSRC-Dedicated Short Range Communication), especially using microwaves, for communication with a vehicle-side unit (so-called "OBU" - On Board Unit) is in the WO 99/25087 A disclosed, a gradual adjustment of the degree of modulation in the Modulation of a carrier wave is made. It is also a bidirectional one Communication between fixed devices (beacons) and vehicle-side units, whereby nothing is said about the acquisition of position information.

Es ist nun ein Ziel der Erfindung, ein System der eingangs angeführten Art vorzusehen, das sich durch eine einfache Konfiguration und nichtsdestoweniger zuverlässige Funktion auszeichnet, und das somit preiswert ist und auch auf einfache Weise installiert werden kann.It is now an object of the invention to provide a system of the type mentioned at the outset characterized by a simple configuration and nonetheless reliable function, and that is therefore inexpensive and can also be installed in a simple manner.

Das erfindungsgemäße System der eingangs angegebenen Art ist dadurch gekennzeichnet, dass die für die ortsfeste Aufstellung vorgesehene DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtung und die mobile DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtung mit Infrarot-Sende- bzw. -Empfangseinrichtungen ausgebildet sind, dass die für die ortsfeste Aufstellung vorgesehene DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtung eingerichtet ist, zusammen mit den sie und ihre Position identifizierenden Informationen einem Speicher entnommene Gebühreninformationen an die mobile DSRC-Kommunikationseinheit zu übermitteln, und dass der mobilen DSRC-Kommunikationseinheit eine Gebührenermittlungseinheit zur Ermittlung der jeweiligen Gebühr aufgrund der von der für die ortsfeste Aufstellung vorgesehenen DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtung übermittelten Gebühreninformationen sowie eine Buchungseinheit zum Verbuchen der ermittelten Gebühr in einem Wertekonto zugeordnet sind.The system of the type specified at the outset is characterized in that the DSRC communication device intended for the fixed installation and the mobile one DSRC communication device with infrared transmission or reception devices are that the DSRC communication device provided for the fixed installation is set up, along with the information identifying them and their position charge information taken from a memory to the mobile DSRC communication unit to transmit, and that the mobile DSRC communication unit a fee determination unit to determine the respective fee based on that of the for the fixed Installation provided DSRC communication device transmitted fee information and a booking unit for booking the determined fee in a value account assigned.

Beim vorliegenden System werden keine aufwendigen Selbstortungseinrichtungen wie z.B. GPS bzw. GNSS und die hierfür erforderlichen aufwendigen Programme benötigt, da die fiir die zumindest zeitweise ortsfeste Aufstellung vorgesehenen Kommunikationseinrichtungen (nachfolgend der Einfachheit halber kurz "ortsfeste DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtung" bezeichnet) entsprechende Identifizierungs- und damit Ortungs-Informationen übermitteln; diese Informationen ermöglichen eine eindeutige Identifizierung dieser ortsfesten Kommunikationseinrichtungen und damit zumindest indirekt ihrer Position. Die ortsfesten Kommunikationseinrichtungen können dabei autonom bzw. asynchron arbeiten, d.h. sie brauchen nicht vernetzt zu sein, und sie arbeiten bevorzugt nur im Sendebetrieb, so dass für die Positionsbestimmung oder Ortung eine unidirektionale DSRC-Kommunikation genügt. Das vorliegende System eignet sich dabei in hervorragender Weise für einen Einsatz sowohl in offenen wie auch in geschlossenen Mautsystemen oder aber auch in Parksystemen, wobei die eigentliche Vergebührung, der Zahlungsvorgang, je nach Wunsch des Systembetreibers über die verschiedensten Medien bewerkstelligt werden kann, wie etwa über Karten und Kartenlesegeräte bei Tankstellen oder anderen Zahlstellen. Wenn die ortsfesten Kommunikationseinrichtungen nur eine Sendefunktion aufweisen, sie also keinerlei Daten von den mobilen Kommunikationseinheiten, z.B. in Fahrzeugen, empfangen müssen, können sie sehr einfach und daher sehr kostengünstig aufgebaut sein. Hierzu trägt auch der Entfall von Speicherfunktionen für sensible Daten bei, wie ftir Daten betreffend Gebührenbeträge oder Fahrzeugdaten.In the present system, no complex self-location devices such as GPS or GNSS and the complex programs required for this, since at least for the provisionally provided fixed communication devices (hereinafter simply referred to as "fixed DSRC communication device" for the sake of simplicity) transmit corresponding identification and thus location information; this information enable a clear identification of these fixed communication devices and thus at least indirectly their position. The fixed communication facilities can work autonomously or asynchronously, i.e. they don't need to be connected, and they preferably work only in broadcast mode, so that for position determination or location unidirectional DSRC communication is sufficient. The present system is suitable in excellent for use in both open and closed toll systems or also in parking systems, where the actual charge, the payment process, accomplished via a wide variety of media, depending on the system operator's wishes such as cards and card readers at petrol stations or other paying agents. If the fixed communication devices only have a sending function, they no data from the mobile communication units, e.g. in vehicles must, they can be very simple and therefore very inexpensive. This also contributes the elimination of storage functions for sensitive data such as data relating to fee amounts or vehicle data.

Je nach Mautsystem erfolgt die Gebührenermittlung bei einem einmaligen Passieren einer ortsfesten Kommunikationseinrichtung oder aber nach Passieren (Ein- und Ausfahrt) von zwei solchen Kommunikationseinrichtungen. Ensprechende Techniken bzw. Programme hierfür sind an sich üblich und brauchen hier nicht weiter erläutert zu werden. Im Fall der Einhebung von Mautgebühren oder dgl. werden beim vorliegenden System von der ortsfesten DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtung mit den sie eindeutig identifizierenden Informationen ergänzend Positionsinformationen über ihren Aufstellungs-Ort übermittelt. Die Positionsinformationen können dabei je nach Gebühreneinhebungssystem beispielsweise auch in Angaben von die jeweilige ortsfeste Kommunikationseinrichtung bezeichnenden Nummern oder dgl. bestehen, wobei bei der Gebührenberechnung aufgrund der Nummern auf die zugehörigen Positionen geschlossen und danach die Gebührenhöhe ermittelt werden kann.Depending on the toll system, the fee is calculated once you pass a fixed one Communication device or after passing (entry and exit) of two such Communication equipment. Appropriate techniques or programs for this are on are common and need not be explained further here. In the case of the collection of Toll fees or the like are in the present system from the fixed DSRC communication device with the information that uniquely identifies them, as well as position information transmitted via their place of installation. The position information can be depending on the fee collection system, for example, in the details of the respective fixed Communication device designating numbers or the like exist, with the charge calculation based on the numbers on the corresponding positions and then the fee amount can be determined.

Um die jeweilige Gebühr unmittelbar über die mobile DSRC-Kommunikationseinheit ermitteln zu können, übermittelt die ortsfeste DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtung mit den sie eindeutig identifizierenden Informationen einem Speicher entnommene Gebühreninformationen, z.B. festgelegte Gebührenangaben oder Gebührenermittlungsvorschriften. Dabei können unmittelbar die jeweiligen Gebührenhöhen übermittelt werden oder aber Berechnungsvorschriften, wie etwa Daten, auf deren Basis wiederum aus Tabellen in den mobilen DSRC-Kommunikationseinheiten die Gebühren für den jeweiligen Fall entnommen werden können. Der mobilen DSRC-Kommunikationseinheit ist demgemäß eine - z.B. durch einen Prozessor realisierte - Gebührenermittlungseinheit zur Ermittlung der jeweiligen Gebühr aufgrund der von der ortsfesten DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtung übermittelten Gebühreninformationen zugeordnet, und die ermittelte Gebühr kann dann mittels der Buchungseinheit auf einem Wertekonto, insbesondere innerhalb der mobilen bzw. fahrzeugseitigen Einheit (auch OBU - On Board Unit - genannt), gebucht werden, wobei das Wertekonto in seinem Wert verändert wird. Es kann dabei ein an sich bereits etwa im Zusammenhang mit Mobiltelefonen bekanntes System mit Wertkarten (SIM-Karten bzw. sog. "Smart Cards") ver wendet werden, es ist jedoch auch denkbar, die Gebühr von einem externen Konto abzubuchen. Im Falle einer zusätzlichen Mobilfunkeinrichtung kann diese Abbuchung auch unmittelbar über diese erfolgen. Insbesondere ist es dann auch mit Vorteil möglich, wenn die Gebühr über einen Gebührenzähler eines Telefonkontos abgebucht wird.To determine the respective fee directly via the mobile DSRC communication unit to be able to transmit the fixed DSRC communication device with which they clearly identifying information, fee information taken from a memory, e.g. specified fee information or fee determination regulations. You can do this immediately the respective fee levels are transmitted or calculation rules such as Data, on the basis of which in turn from tables in the mobile DSRC communication units the fees for the respective case can be found. The mobile DSRC communication unit is accordingly one - e.g. implemented by a processor - fee determination unit to determine the respective fee on the basis of the fixed DSRC communication device assigned fee information assigned, and the determined Fee can then be placed on a value account using the booking unit, in particular within the mobile or on-board unit (also called OBU - On Board Unit) the value account will be changed. There may already be one in itself system known in connection with mobile phones with prepaid cards (SIM cards or so-called "smart cards") are used, but it is also conceivable to charge one debit external account. In the case of an additional mobile radio device, this charge can be made also be done directly via this. In particular, it is then also advantageously possible if the fee is debited via a fee counter in a telephone account.

Für eine störungsfreie Funktion hat es sich ferner als besonders günstig erwiesen, dass die DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtung bzw. DSRC-Kommunikationseinheit mit einer Infrarot-Sende- bzw. Empfangseinrichtung ausgebildet ist. For a trouble-free function, it has also proven to be particularly advantageous that the DSRC communication device or DSRC communication unit with an infrared transmission or receiving device is formed.

Vor allem im Fall der Einhebung von Parkgebühren beim Passieren von virtuellen Parkplatz-"Schranken", die durch ortsfeste DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtungen gebildet sind, wird weiters bevorzugt vorgesehen, dass die ortsfeste DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtung eine Uhr (z.B. in einem Prozessor) enthält und mit den sie eindeutig identifizierenden Informationen den jeweiligen Sende-Zeitpunkt angebende Informationen übermittelt. Dadurch können aufgrund des Festhaltens der Zeitpunkte beim Ein- und Ausfahren die Parkzeiten ermittelt werden.Especially in the case of collecting parking fees when passing virtual Parking lot "barriers" formed by fixed DSRC communication devices it is also preferably provided that the fixed DSRC communication device has a Clock (e.g. in a processor) and with the clearly identifying information transmitted information indicating the respective time of transmission. This can be due to the parking times are determined by recording the times when entering and exiting.

Um das System vor betrügerischen Zugriffen zu schützen, ist es auch vorteilhaft, wenn der mobilen DSRC-Kommunikationseinheit und/oder der ortsfesten DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtung eine kryptografische Einheit zugeordnet ist. Diese kryptografische Einheit kann die jeweils übermittelten Informationen beispielsweise mit einer Signatur versehen. Wenn sich der Schlüssel bzw. die Signatur laufend ändert, ist es für Unbefugte praktisch unmöglich, zu den empfangenen Informationen einen Zugriff zu erlangen. Nicht einmal die fahrzeugseitige Einheit kann hier eine Entschlüsselung vornehmen, erst beim eigentlichen Zahlungsvorgang, z.B. bei einer Zahlungsbake oder an einem Smart-Card-Automaten, wird eine aus den verschiedenen Ortungs-Signaturen berechnete "Hyper-Signatur" geprüft, und nur der System-Betreiber kann die Echtheit und Integrität des Schlüssels feststellen; in der Folge wird der tatsächlich fällige Betrag errechnet und beispielsweise von der Smart Card abgebucht, wobei Zeit und Signatur in einem Log-Speicher auf der Smart Card bzw. in der mobilen Einheit (OBU) gespeichert werden können. Der eigentliche Zahlungsvorgang kann auf verschiedene Arten erfolgen, wie etwa beim Aufladen der Smart Card an einem Automaten oder an einem entsprechend ausgerüsteten Kassenterminal, beim Aufladen der Smart Card über ein zellulares Telefonsystem (GSM, UMTS usw.), oder aber beim Aufladen der Smart Cards über ein DSRC-System. Die kryptografische Einheit kann im Prinzip auch eine Verschlüsselung der jeweils übermittelten Informationen vornehmen.To protect the system from fraudulent access, it is also advantageous if the mobile DSRC communication unit and / or the fixed DSRC communication device a cryptographic unit is assigned. This cryptographic unit can each provided information, for example with a signature. If the key or constantly changing the signature, it is practically impossible for unauthorized persons to access the received one Information to gain access. Not even the on-board unit can do one here Make decryption only during the actual payment process, e.g. with a payment beacon or on a smart card machine, one of the different location signatures calculated "hyper-signature" checked, and only the system operator can authenticity and Determine the integrity of the key; the actual amount due is then calculated and For example, debited from the smart card, with time and signature in a log memory can be saved on the smart card or in the mobile unit (OBU). The actual Payment can be made in different ways, such as when charging the Smart Card at a machine or at a correspondingly equipped cash register terminal, at Charging the smart card via a cellular telephone system (GSM, UMTS etc.), or at Smart cards are charged using a DSRC system. The cryptographic unit can in principle also encrypt the information transmitted in each case.

Wie sich bereits aus Vorstehendem ergibt, ist zweckmäßigerweise vorgesehen, dass der mobilen DSRC-Kommunikationseinheit ein Speicher zur Speicherung der von der ortsfesten DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtung übermittelten Informationen zugeordnet ist. Für eine etwaige unmittelbare Vergebührung über die ortsfesten Einrichtungen hat es sich auch als zweckmäßig erwiesen, wenn die mobile DSRC-Kommunikationseinheit mit einem DSRC-Sender und die DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtung mit einem DSRC-Empfänger ausgerüstet ist und der DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtung eine Vergebührungseinheit zugeordnet ist.As can already be seen from the above, it is expediently provided that the mobile DSRC communication unit a memory for storing the fixed DSRC communication device transmitted information is assigned. For any immediate Billing over the fixed facilities has also proven to be useful if the mobile DSRC communication unit with a DSRC transmitter and the DSRC communication device is equipped with a DSRC receiver and the DSRC communication device is assigned a charging unit.

Weiters ist es vorteilhaft, wenn der mobilen DSRC-Kommunikationseinheit eine Mobilfunkeinrichtung zugeordnet ist. Hierbei ist es denkbar und vielfach im Hinblick auf eine hohe Flexibilität des Systems günstig, wenn die mobile DSRC-Kommunikationseinheit mit der Mobilfunkeinrichtung über eine zumindest monodirektionale, vorzugsweise bidirektionale DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtung in Verbindung steht. Andererseits ist es zur Erzielung einer kompakten fahrzeugseitigen Einheit (OBU) von Vorteil, wenn die mobile DSRC-Kommunikationseinheit mit der Mobilfunkeinrichtung in einer Einheit direkt verbunden ist, vorzugsweise mit ihr in einem gemeinsamen Gehäuse untergebracht ist.Furthermore, it is advantageous if the mobile DSRC communication unit has a mobile radio device assigned. It is conceivable and often with a view to high flexibility of the system favorable if the mobile DSRC communication unit with the mobile radio device via an at least monodirectional, preferably bidirectional DSRC communication device communicates. On the other hand, it is to achieve a compact Vehicle-side unit (OBU) is an advantage if the mobile DSRC communication unit is directly connected to the mobile radio device in one unit, preferably to it in one common housing is housed.

Für Überprüfungszwecke und zur Ermittlung von Statistiken kann es weiters auch günstig sein, wenn die Mobilfunkeinrichtung zur Übertragung von Informationen an eine zentrale Datenverarbeitungsanlage eingerichtet ist. Gegebenenalls kann diese Funkübertragung auch zur Gebührenverrechnung über die zentrale Datenverarbeitungsanlage eingesetzt werden.For verification purposes and to determine statistics, it can also be beneficial if the mobile radio device for transmitting information to a central data processing system is set up. If necessary, this radio transmission can also be used for charging be used via the central data processing system.

Um weitere Funktionen mit vorzusehen, ist vorzugsweise vorgesehen, dass die Mobilfunkeinrichtung ein Mobiltelefon mit Freisprecheinrichtung ist. Der elektrische Verbindungspunkt (z.B. ein Stecker) zwischen der Mobilfunkeinrichtung, d.h. dem Mobiltelefon, und der Freisprecheinrichtung kann dabei so eingerichtet sein, dass die mobile DSRC-Kommunikationseinheit an diesem Verbindungspunkt angeschlossen werden kann. Diese Kommunikationsverbindung kann aufrecht sein, wenn der Anschluss für die Freisprecheinrichtung nicht genutzt ist.In order to provide additional functions, it is preferably provided that the mobile radio device is a mobile phone with a hands-free system. The electrical connection point (e.g. a connector) between the mobile radio device, i.e. the mobile phone, and the speakerphone can be set up so that the mobile DSRC communication unit this connection point can be connected. This communication link can be upright when the speakerphone jack is not in use.

Insbesondere um die Informationen an der jeweiligen ortsfesten DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtung einfach aktualisieren zu können, ist es überdies vorteilhaft, wenn der ortsfesten DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtung eine Mobilfunkeinrichtung zugeordnet ist. In particular, the information on the respective fixed DSRC communication device easy to update, it is also advantageous if the fixed DSRC communication device a mobile radio device is assigned.

Die ortsfesten DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtungen können mit eigenen Batterien ausgerüstet sein, und es können im Prinzip auch Anschlüsse an das Stromnetz mit entsprechenden Netzteilen vorliegen. Vorzugsweise ist für eine autonome Energieversorgung die jeweilige ortsfeste Kommunikationseinrichtung mit einer Solarenergieeinrichtung zur Stromversorgung versehen. Die Solarenergie wird dabei einer aufladbaren Batterie zugeführt.The fixed DSRC communication devices can be equipped with their own batteries be, and there can in principle also be connections to the power grid with corresponding power supplies available. The respective stationary communication device is preferably for an autonomous energy supply provided with a solar energy device for power supply. The Solar energy is supplied to a rechargeable battery.

Es ist auch von Vorteil, wenn die DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtung zur Durchführung eines Selbsttests, z.B. zur Kontrolle der Stromversorgung bzw. der Funktion der Kommunikationseinrichtung, eingerichtet ist. Im Fall einer beim Selbsttest festgestellten Störung kann gegebenenfalls, wenn eine Funkeinrichtung mit einer Notstromversorgung vorgesehen ist, eine Störungsmeldung an eine zentrale Überwachungsstelle abgesetzt werden.It is also advantageous if the DSRC communication device is used to carry out a Self-tests, e.g. to control the power supply or the function of the communication device, is set up. In the event of a malfunction detected during the self-test, if a radio device with an emergency power supply is provided, a fault message to a central monitoring point.

Die Erfindung wird nachstehend anhand von in der Zeichnung veranschaulichten bevorzugten Ausführungsbeispielen, auf die sie jedoch nicht beschränkt sein soll, noch weiter erläutert. In der Zeichnung zeigen im Einzelnen:

  • Fig.1 schematisch das vorliegende System in einer Ausführung zur Einhebung von Straßenmaut-Gebühren, wobei eine mautpflichtige Straße in schematischer Draufsicht mit zwei Fahrzeugen sowie die an einer "virtuellen Mautstelle" vorhandenen Systemkomponenten veranschaulicht sind und überdies eine fahrzeugseitige Einheit herausgezeichnet dargestellt ist;
  • Fig.2 ein schematisches Blockschaltbild des vorliegenden Systems;
  • Fig.3 schematisch ein zur fahrzeugseitigen Einrichtung gehöriges Mobiltelefon mit einer Freisprecheinrichtung und einer DSRC-Kommunikationseinheit; und
  • Fig.4 ein Ablaufdiagramm zur Veranschaulichung der Durchführung eines Selbsttests für die ortsfeste Kommunikationseinrichtung.
    • The invention is explained in more detail below on the basis of preferred exemplary embodiments illustrated in the drawing, to which, however, it should not be limited. The drawing shows in detail:
  • 1 schematically shows the present system in an embodiment for the collection of road toll charges, a toll road being illustrated in a schematic plan view with two vehicles and the system components present at a "virtual toll station" and a vehicle-side unit is also shown drawn out;
  • 2 shows a schematic block diagram of the present system;
  • 3 schematically shows a mobile phone belonging to the vehicle-side device with a hands-free device and a DSRC communication unit; and
  • 4 shows a flowchart to illustrate the implementation of a self-test for the stationary communication device.

    • In Fig. 1 ist schematisch als bevorzugtes Ausführungsbeispiel des erfindungsgemäßen Systems ein Straßenmautsystem gezeigt, wobei ein mautpflichtiger Verkehrsweg 1 veranschaulicht ist, auf dem Fahrzeuge 2 hinsichtlich der Erhebung von Mautgebühren zu erfassen sind. hierfür weist das vorliegende Vergebührungs-System fahrzeugseitige Einheiten 3 auf, wobei eine derartige fahrzeugseitige Einheit 3 in Fig. 1 zwecks besserer Veranschaulichung in einem mit unterbrochenen Linien dargestellten Block gesondert gezeigt ist; weiters gehören zum System zumindest vorübergehend ortsfest aufgestellte Ortungs-Baken 4, die mit DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtungen (DSRC - dedicated short range communication - gerichtete Nahbereichskommunikation) ausgeführt sind. Diese Baken 4 können stationär angebracht sein, etwa an im Boden verankerten Säulen, es können jedoch auch mobile Baken vorgesehen werden, die je nach Bedarf zur mautpflichtigen Strecke herantransportiert und an der gewünschten Stelle vorübergehend ortsfest aufgestellt werden.In Fig. 1 is schematically as a preferred embodiment of the system according to the invention a road toll system is shown, a toll road 1 being illustrated vehicles 2 are to be recorded with regard to the collection of toll fees. for this the present charging system on-board units 3, such a vehicle-side Unit 3 in Fig. 1 for better illustration in an interrupted Lines shown block is shown separately; furthermore belong to the system at least temporarily Fixed beacons 4 with DSRC communication facilities (DSRC - dedicated short range communication) are. These beacons 4 can be stationary, for example anchored in the ground Columns, but mobile beacons can also be provided, which can be tolled as required Transported route and temporarily stationary at the desired location be set up.

    Die (vorübergehend) ortsfesten DSRC-Kommunikationseinrichtungen, nachstehend der Einfachheit halber kurz ortsfeste Baken 4 genannt, sind mit Infrarot-Übertragungseinrichtungen 5 ausgestattet, die mit ihren ausgesendeten Infrarot-Signalen (Informationen A) einen nur wenige Meter weit reichenden sektorförmigen Ortungsbereich 6 bestreichen. Infrarot-Strahlung ist inkohärent und es kommt somit zu keiner Auslöschung durch Überlagerung von Signalen kommt.The (temporarily) fixed DSRC communication facilities, hereinafter the simplicity for the sake of being called fixed beacons 4 for short, are with infrared transmission devices 5 equipped with a few infrared signals (information A) Coat sector-wide location area 6 that extends for meters. Infrared radiation is incoherent and therefore there is no cancellation due to the superimposition of signals.

    In entsprechender Weise enthalten die fahrzeugseitigen Einheiten 3 eine (mobile) DSRC-Kommunikationseinheit, insbesondere mit einem geeigneten Infrarot-Empfänger, vgl. beispielsweise auch die WO 99/03218 A, in der ein Beispiel eines geeigneten IR-Empfängers gezeigt ist, und diese mobile DSRC-Kommunikationseinheit ist in Fig.1 bei 7 veranschaulicht.In a corresponding manner, the vehicle-side units 3 contain a (mobile) DSRC communication unit, in particular with a suitable infrared receiver, cf. for example also WO 99/03218 A, in which an example of a suitable IR receiver is shown and this mobile DSRC communication unit is illustrated at 7 in FIG.

    In einer Minimal-Konfiguration ist das System dementsprechend nur mit sendenden ortsfesten DSRC-Sende-Baken 4 sowie mit empfangenden mobilen DSRC-Kommunikationseinheiten 7 ausgestattet, wobei diesen mobilen Kommunikationseinheiten 7 eine Gebührenberechnungs- und Buchungseinheit 8 zugeordnet ist, wie in Fig.1 schematisch gezeigt ist. Diese Buchungseinheit 8 kann durch einen Prozessor in an sich herkömmlicher Weise realisiert sein. Auch kann die mobile DSRC-Kommunikationseinheit 7 mit einer kryptografischen Einheit bzw. einer Verschlüsselungseinheit ausgestattet sein, die in Fig.1 nicht näher gezeigt ist, vgl. aber Fig.2, wo eine solche kryptografische Einheit bei 9 veranschaulicht ist. Diese kryptografische Einheit 9 dient beispielsweise dazu, die zu sendenden bzw. die empfangenen Ortungs-Informationen bzw.-Daten - die von den ortsfesten Baken 4 gesendet werden - mit einer sich laufend ändernden Signatur zu versehen, um so das System gegenüber unbefugten Zugriffen sicher zu gestalten. Dabei ist in der fahrzeugseitigen Einheit 3 (üblicherweise OBU - On Board Unit - genannt) keine Entschlüsselungs-Möglichkeit gegeben, und eine Entschlüsselung erfolgt erst beim tatsächlichen Zahlvorgang, z.B. an einer Zahlungsbake oder an einem an sich herkömmlich ausgebildeten Smart Card-Automaten, wo eine aus den verschiedenen Ortungs-"Signaturen" seitens der OBU 3 berechnete "Hypersignatur" geprüft und als Basis für die Gebührenzahlung genommen wird. Dabei kann nur der Systembetreiber mit seinen entsprechenden Einrichtungen die Echtheit und Integrität der verschlüsselten Information feststellen.Accordingly, in a minimal configuration, the system is only with stationary transmitters DSRC transmit beacons 4 and with receiving mobile DSRC communication units 7 equipped, these mobile communication units 7 a fee calculation and booking unit 8 is assigned, as shown schematically in Fig.1. This booking unit 8 can be implemented by a processor in a conventional manner. It can also mobile DSRC communication unit 7 with a cryptographic unit or an encryption unit be equipped, which is not shown in Figure 1, see. but Fig.2, where a such a cryptographic unit is illustrated at 9. This cryptographic unit 9 serves for example, the location information or data to be sent or received - Which are sent by the fixed beacons 4 - with a constantly changing signature in order to make the system secure against unauthorized access. It is no decryption option in the on-board unit 3 (usually called OBU - On Board Unit) given, and decryption takes place only with the actual Payment process, e.g. on a payment beacon or on a conventionally trained one Smart card machine, where one of the various location "signatures" on the part of the OBU 3 calculated "hypersignature" is checked and taken as the basis for the fee payment. Only the system operator with its corresponding facilities can guarantee authenticity and Check the integrity of the encrypted information.

    Beispielsweise ermittelt die OBU 3 selbst aus den empfangenen Baken-Ortungsdaten und aus den in ihr in einem nicht näher gezeigten, zum Mikroprozessor 8 gehörigen Speicher gespeicherten Daten betreffend die Fahrzeugkategorie etc. die jeweils fällige Gebühr, vgl. den mit B bezeichneten Informationsfluss in Fig. 1 und 2. Diese Gebühr wird sodann von einem in der OBU 3 vorhandenen Wertekonto abgebucht, wobei das Wertekonto beispielsweise von einer Wertkarte, nämlich Smart Card oder SIM-Karte, oder von einem Chip realisiert sein kann.For example, the OBU 3 itself determines from the received beacon location data the stored in it in a memory, not shown, belonging to the microprocessor 8 Data regarding the vehicle category etc. the respective fee due, cf. the one with B designated information flow in Fig. 1 and 2. This fee is then charged by one in the OBU 3 existing value account debited, whereby the value account, for example, from a value card, namely smart card or SIM card, or can be realized by a chip.

    Im gezeigten bevorzugten Ausführungsbeispiel ist eine Mobilfunkeinrichtung im jeweiligen Fahrzeug ergänzend vorgesehen, wie in Fig. 1 und 2 schematisch bei 10 veranschaulicht ist. Diese Mobilfunkeinrichtung 10 kann durch ein im Wesentlichen herkömmliches Mobiltelefon (GSM, UMTS etc.) gebildet sein, und sie kann unabhängig von der eigentlichen OBU 3 vorliegen oder aber mit dieser zu einer Einheit vereinigt sein. Bevorzugt werden die OBU 3 und die Mobilfunkeinrichtung 10 sogar in einem gemeinsamen Gehäuse untergebracht, wobei gemeinsam nutzbare Komponenten, wie etwa Prozessoren, eingesetzt werden können, auch wenn in Fig. 1 und 2 für die Mobilfunkeinrichtung 10 ein eigener Prozessor 11 (mit einem Speicher 11') gezeigt ist, der mit einer SIM-Karteneinheit 12 verbunden ist. Die eigentliche Funkübertragungseinheit für das Senden und Empfangen ist in Fig.2 bei 13 veranschaulicht.In the preferred exemplary embodiment shown, a mobile radio device is in each case The vehicle is additionally provided, as is schematically illustrated at 10 in FIGS. 1 and 2. This Mobile radio device 10 can be operated using an essentially conventional mobile telephone (GSM, UMTS etc.) can be formed, and it can be independent of the actual OBU 3 or but be united with it into one unit. The OBU 3 and the mobile radio device are preferred 10 even housed in a common housing, being common usable components, such as processors, can be used, even if in FIG. 1 and 2 a separate processor 11 (with a memory 11 ') is shown for the mobile radio device 10 is connected to a SIM card unit 12. The actual radio transmission unit for sending and receiving is illustrated at 13 in FIG.

    Die Mobilfunkeinrichtung 10 erhält, wenn sie eine gesonderte Einheit ist, beispielsweise über ein DSRC-System oder aber über eine Verbindungsleitung Signale bzw. Informationen C von der OBU 3 zugeführt, wie in Fig.2 schematisch bei 14 gezeigt ist. Im Falle des Zusammenbaus dieser beiden Einheiten 3 und 10 in einem gemeinsamen Gehäuse kann die Verbindungsleitung 14 im Gehäuseinneren kurz sein, etwa auf einer üblichen Leiterplatine vorliegen. Vor allem können dann auch die Prozessoren 8 und 11 durch einen einzigen Prozessor realisiert sein.The mobile radio device 10 receives, if it is a separate unit, for example via a DSRC system or via a connecting line signals or information C from the OBU 3 supplied, as shown schematically in Fig. 2 at 14. In case of assembling this two units 3 and 10 in a common housing, the connecting line 14 in The interior of the housing must be short, for example on a conventional printed circuit board. Above all, can then the processors 8 and 11 can also be realized by a single processor.

    Wie sodann noch aus Fig. 1 und 2 ersichtlich ist, kann eine zentrale Datenverarbeitungsanlage 15 vorgesehen sein, die einerseits zur Übermittlung von Informationen Q zu den ortsfesten Baken 4 und andererseits zumindest zum Empfang von Informationen D von den fahrzeugseitigen Einheiten 3 eingerichtet ist. Im Einzelnen kann die zentrale Datenverarbeitungseinrichtung 15 mit entsprechenden Adress-Codes versehene Daten bzw. Informationen Q an die ortsfesten Baken 4 senden, um dort gespeicherte Daten, etwa betreffend Position, Gebührentarif, Zeitpunkte etc., zu aktualisieren. Dabei kann überdies auch vorgesehen sein, dass von den ortsfesten Baken 4 Informationen, etwa über den anfallenden Verkehr (unter Zählung der passierenden Fahrzeuge), zur zentralen Datenverarbeitungsanlage 15 übermittelt werden.As can be seen from FIGS. 1 and 2, a central data processing system 15 be provided, on the one hand, for the transmission of information Q about the stationary beacons 4 and on the other hand at least for receiving information D from the vehicle-side units 3 is set up. In particular, the central data processing device 15 can also data or information Q provided with corresponding address codes to the fixed beacons 4 send in order to send data stored there, e.g. regarding position, fee tariff, times etc. To update. It can also be provided that 4 information, from the fixed beacons, about the traffic that arises (counting the passing vehicles) to central data processing system 15 are transmitted.

    Andererseits kann der Informationsfluss D von den fahrzeugseitigen Einheiten 3 zur zentralen Datenverarbeitungseinrichtung 15 beispielsweise Daten zwecks Überprüfung der Vergebührung oder aber tatsächliche Vergebührungsinformationen enthalten. Die Ortungs-Informationen A, die von den Baken 4 zu den Fahrzeugen 2 bzw. fahrzeugseitigen Einheiten 3 gesendet werden, enthalten die jeweilige Bake 4 eindeutig identifizierende Daten, um so eine eindeutige Ortung bzw. Positionsbestimmung für die Fahrzeuge 2 zu ermöglichen.On the other hand, the information flow D from the vehicle-side units 3 to the central one Data processing device 15, for example, data for checking the charging or contain actual billing information. The location information A, the are sent from the beacons 4 to the vehicles 2 or vehicle-side units 3 the respective beacon 4 uniquely identifying data so as to unambiguously locate or To enable position determination for vehicles 2.

    Wie aus Fig.2 weiters im Einzelnen hervorgeht, enthalten die ortsfesten Baken 4 zur Ansteuerung der jeweiligen Kommunikationseinrichtung 5 (mit dem Infrarot-Sender) einen Prozessor 16 (z.B. µP-Mikroprozessor) mit einem zugehörigen, nur schematisch gezeichneten Speicher 16', der die jeweiligen Identifizierungs- bzw. Positionsinformationen enthält. Der Prozessor 16 steuert auch eine Funkeinrichtung 17 an, die die Übertragung der Informationen Q zur bzw. von der zentralen Datenverarbeitungseinrichtung 15 durchführt. Weiters enthält der Prozessor 16 eine Uhr 16" (Taktgeber), so dass auch den jeweiligen Sendezeitpunkt angebende Informationen mitgesendet werden können.As can also be seen in detail from FIG. 2, the stationary beacons 4 contain for actuation the respective communication device 5 (with the infrared transmitter) a processor 16 (e.g. µP microprocessor) with an associated, only schematically drawn memory 16 ', the contains respective identification or position information. The processor 16 also controls a radio device 17, which transmits the information Q to or from the central Data processing device 15 performs. The processor 16 also contains a clock 16 " (Clock generator), so that information indicating the respective time of transmission is also transmitted can be.

    Zur autonomen Energieversorgung der einzelnen Komponenten der ortsfesten Baken 4 ist bevorzugt eine Solarzellen-Einrichtung 18 vorgesehen, der eine entsprechende aufladbare Batterie mit Ladegerät (nicht gezeigt) in herkömmlicher Weise zugeordnet ist; derartige Solarenergieeinrichtungen sind an sich hinlänglich bekannt, so dass sich hier eine nähere Beschreibung erübrigen kann.For the autonomous energy supply of the individual components of the fixed beacons 4 is preferred a solar cell device 18 is provided, the corresponding rechargeable battery associated with charger (not shown) in a conventional manner; such solar energy devices are well known per se, so that a detailed description is unnecessary here can.

    Wenn vorstehend eine Solarstromversorgung erläutert wurde, so kann doch selbstverständlich eine herkömmliche Netzversorgung ebenfalls vorgesehen werden.If a solar power supply was explained above, it can be taken for granted a conventional power supply can also be provided.

    Wie ersichtlich sind die Baken 4 außerordentlich einfach aufgebaut, was damit zusammenhängt, dass sie, was die Kommunikation mit den Fahrzeugen 2 anlangt, nur eine Sendefunktion haben brauchen, sie also keine Daten aus den Fahrzeugen 2 empfangen müssen. Dabei entfällt auch die Notwendigkeit der Speicherung derartig sensibler Daten, wie Gebührenbeträge und Fahrzeugdaten, so dass sich auch diesbezüglich eine Vereinfachung ergibt. Die Infrarot-Sendeeinheit kann in an sich herkömmlicher Weise mit Infrarot-Sendedioden und einer optischen Bündelungseinheit ausgebildet sein; der Prozessor 16 bildet die Steuerelektronik samt Speicher 16', und die Funkeinrichtung 17 kann beispielsweise ein GSM-Sende/Empfänger fiir die Fernwartung und Fernadministration sein.As can be seen, the beacons 4 are extremely simple, which is related to the fact that that as far as the communication with the vehicles 2 is concerned, they only have a sending function need, so they do not have to receive data from vehicles 2. This also eliminates the Necessity of storing such sensitive data, such as fee amounts and vehicle data, so that there is also a simplification in this regard. The infrared transmitter unit can be in in a conventional manner with infrared transmit diodes and an optical bundling unit be educated; the processor 16 forms the control electronics including the memory 16 ', and the radio device 17 can be a GSM transceiver for remote maintenance and administration, for example his.

    An sich ist es auch denkbar, für die OBU 3 eine bidirektionale Verbindung zu den Baken 4 aufzubauen, wobei dann die Baken 4 entsprechend eingerichtet sein können, um Fahrzeug- bzw. Gebührendaten zu empfangen und an die zentrale Datenverarbeitungseinrichtung 15 zu senden. In der bevorzugten Ausführungsform sind die Baken 4 jedoch wie erwähnt nur fiir den Sendebetrieb eingerichtet, wobei als wesentlich die laufende Aussendung von die Baken 4 jeweils eindeutig identifizierenden Informationen (Informationen A) anzusehen ist. Die Baken 4 können so völlig autonom und asynchron arbeiten, und sie können aufgrund der ausgesendeten Informationen A jeweils für eine eindeutige Ortung identifiziert werden, um die erforderliche Gebührenberechnung durchzuführen. In itself, it is also conceivable to establish a bidirectional connection to the beacons 4 for the OBU 3, in which case the beacons 4 can then be set up accordingly in order to Receive charge data and send it to the central data processing device 15. In In the preferred embodiment, however, the beacons 4 are, as mentioned, only for the transmission mode set up, whereby the ongoing transmission of the beacons 4 is unambiguous in each case identifying information (information A) is to be viewed. The beacons 4 can completely operate autonomously and asynchronously, and they can A each for a unique location to be identified to calculate the required fees perform.

    Wenn die ortsfesten Baken 4 einem Parkplatz zuzuordnen und Parkgebühren zu verrechnen sind, können die Informationen A wie erwähnt auch den jeweiligen Zeitpunkt des Passierens des Fahrzeugs festhaltende Informationen mit übertragen, um so die Dauer der Parkzeit ermitteln zu können. Derartige Zeit-Informationen können aber auch bei Mautsystemen - etwa für Kontrollzwecke - nützlich sein, so dass sie auch dort bevorzugt mit ausgesendet werden.If the fixed beacons 4 are to be assigned to a parking space and parking fees are to be charged, The information A can also, as mentioned, the respective time of passing the Transferring vehicle-recording information in order to determine the duration of the parking time can. Such time information can also be used in toll systems - for example for control purposes - be useful so that they are also preferably sent out there.

    Weiters beinhalten die gesendeten Informationen A bereits Gebühreninformationen, wobei beispielsweise Daten übermittelt werden, aufgrund deren in den fahrzeugseitigen Einheiten 3 unter Zuhilfenahme von dort gespeicherten Tabellen die jeweiligen Gebühren ermittelt werden, es können jedoch auch direkt die erforderlichen Gebührenbeträge übermittelt werden. Letzteres kann mit besonderem Vorteil bei offenen Mautsystemen vorgesehen werden.Furthermore, the information A sent already contains fee information, data being transmitted, for example, on the basis of these in the vehicle-side units 3 the respective fees are determined with the aid of tables stored there, however, the required fee amounts can also be transmitted directly. The latter can be used with particular advantage for open toll systems.

    Gemäß Fig.2 enthält die zentrale Datenverarbeitungseinrichtung 15 Funkeinrichtungen 19, 20 für die Funkverbindung zu den ortsfesten Baken 4 bzw. zu den Funkeinrichtungen 13 der fahrzeugseitigen Einheiten 3. Mit diesen Funkeinheiten 19, 20 ist ein Prozessor 21, insbesondere eine Logfile-Prozessoreinheit, verbunden, der ein Speicher 22 mit Datenbank zugeordnet ist.According to FIG. 2, the central data processing device 15 contains radio devices 19, 20 for the radio connection to the fixed beacons 4 or to the radio devices 13 of the vehicle side Units 3. With these radio units 19, 20 is a processor 21, in particular one Log file processor unit, which is associated with a memory 22 with a database.

    Wie bereits angedeutet, kann im einfachsten Fall die Standard-OBU 3 ohne Mobilfunkeinrichtung 10 ausgeführt sein, wobei sie mit einer Infrarot-Empfangseinheit und einer Smart Card- bzw. SIM-Karten-Einheit ausgerüstet sein kann. Die OBU 3 kann batteriebetrieben sein, und sie wird beispielsweise mit Hilfe einer Klemme im Bereich des Innen-Rückspiegels im Fahrzeug an der Windschutzscheibe oben mittig befestigt. Dabei sind keinerlei Kabel zur Faluzeugelektrik erforderlich. Alle sensitiven Daten werden auf der Smart Card verschlüsselt gespeichert, und diese Smart Card kann über übliche Kassenterminals und Geldausgebeautomaten gelesen bzw. geladen werden.As already indicated, in the simplest case the standard OBU 3 can be used without a mobile radio device 10 be carried out, with an infrared receiving unit and a smart card or SIM card unit can be equipped. The OBU 3 can be battery powered, and so can it is, for example, with the help of a clamp in the area of the interior rear-view mirror in the vehicle attached to the center of the windshield. There are no cables to the gauge electronics required. All sensitive data is stored encrypted on the smart card, and this smart card can be read or read via standard cash register terminals and ATMs Loading.

    Als Alternative dazu kann auch vorgesehen sein, dass die gesamte OBU 3 von der Halterung an der Windschutzscheibe gelöst wird, und dass ein in ihr enthaltener Smart Card-Chip, in dem die sensitiven Daten gespeichert werden, außerhalb des Fahrzeuges über entsprechend mit einem Infrarot-Schreib/Lesekopf ausgerüstete Kassenterminals geladen bzw. gelesen werden.As an alternative to this, it can also be provided that the entire OBU 3 from the holder on the windshield is released, and that a smart card chip contained in it, in which the sensitive data are stored outside of the vehicle via accordingly with a POS terminals equipped with an infrared read / write head can be loaded or read.

    In der besonders bevorzugten Ausführung ist eine Kombination mit einem Mobiltelefon (GSM-OBU) vorgesehen, wie vorstehend erläutert, und diese kombinierte OBU 3 wird vorzugsweise von der Autobatterie mit Strom versorgt. Auch hier werden bevorzugt alle sensitiven Daten verschlüsselt auf einem Smart Card-Chip gespeichert, wobei ein Auslesen bzw. Laden über das zellulare Telefonnetz möglich ist.In the particularly preferred embodiment, a combination with a mobile phone (GSM OBU) is provided as explained above, and this combined OBU 3 is preferred powered by the car battery. Here too, all sensitive data are preferably encrypted stored on a smart card chip, reading or loading via the cellular telephone network is possible.

    Die Mobilfunkeinrichtung 10 kann mit einer Freisprecheinrichtung ausgestattet sein, vgl. den Freisprecheinrichtungs-Anschluss 23 in Fig.2, sowie das Schema in Fig.3, wo ein Mobiltelefon 10 mit einem Verbindungsstecker 24 zu einer Freisprecheinrichtung 25 gezeigt ist; an den Verbindungsstecker 24 ist zugleich die DSRC-Kommunikationseinheit 7' angeschlossen, wobei die Vergebührungsfunktion auch bei angeschlossener Freisprecheinrichtung 25 durch entsprechendes Programmieren des Prozessors 11 gesichert sein kann.The mobile radio device 10 can be equipped with a hands-free device, cf. the Handsfree connector 23 in Fig.2, as well as the scheme in Fig.3, where a cell phone 10 is shown with a connection plug 24 to a hands-free device 25; to the connector 24, the DSRC communication unit 7 'is also connected, the Charging function even with the hands-free device 25 connected by a corresponding one Programming of the processor 11 can be secured.

    Eine weitere mögliche Modifikation besteht darin, dass die fahrzeugseitige Einrichtung 3 vorübergehend aus dem Fahrzeug 2 entfernt wird und außerhalb des Fahrzeuges 2 Informationen an eine spezielle bidirektionale DSRC-Einrichtung weiterleitet, um so die Gebührenverrechnung durchzuführen.Another possible modification is that the vehicle-side device 3 is temporary is removed from the vehicle 2 and 2 information outside the vehicle a special bidirectional DSRC device forwards the billing perform.

    Der Prozessor 16 der ortsfesten Baken 4 kann auch durch entsprechende Programmierung (wobei das Programm im Speicher 16' gespeichert sein kann) dazu eingerichtet sein, periodisch einen Selbsttest durchzuführen, wobei u.a. die Stromversorgung ebenso wie die Funktionsfähigkeit der eigentlichen Sende- und Empfangsmittel getestet werden kann; ebenso kann der Speicher 16' selbst einem Test unterzogen werden. Im Fall einer Störung kann die Funkeinrichtung 17 - sofern diese noch funktionstüchtig und mit einer Notstromversorgung ausgestattet ist - eine Störungsmeldung an die zentrale Datenverarbeitungseinrichtung 15 absetzen. Alternativ dazu kann das System aber auch so eingerichtet sein, dass die ortsfesten Baken 4 periodisch, z.B. alle 15 min, eine Funktionstüchtigkeits-Meldung an die Datenverarbeitungseinrichtung 15 senden; wenn diese Meldung von einer ortsfesten Bake 4 zum vorgeschriebenen Zeitpunkt ausbleibt, wird dies von der Datenverarbeitungseinrichtung als Störung der betroffenen Bake 4 erkannt und dem Überwachungspersonal gemeldet, damit eine Überprüfung und Reparatur vor Ort erfolgen kann.The processor 16 of the fixed beacons 4 can also be programmed accordingly (where the program can be stored in the memory 16 ') can be set up to periodically one Carry out a self-test, including the power supply as well as the functionality of the actual sending and receiving means can be tested; likewise the memory 16 ' be subjected to a test yourself. In the event of a fault, the radio device 17 can - provided that it is still functional and equipped with an emergency power supply - a fault message to the central data processing device 15. Alternatively, you can the system can also be set up so that the stationary beacons 4 are periodically, e.g. every 15 min, send a health report to data processing device 15; if if there is no message from a fixed beacon 4 at the prescribed time, this will be the case recognized by the data processing device as a fault in the affected beacon 4 and the Surveillance personnel reported so that an inspection and repair can be carried out on site.

    In Fig.4 ist der Vorgang eines solchen Selbsttests der ortsfesten Bake 4 veranschaulicht. Dabei ist in Fig.4 allgemein bei 26 die Auslösung des Selbsttests angedeutet, während die Testdurchführung bei 27 veranschaulicht ist. Zur Testauslösung kann als Trigger-Ereignis eine von der Uhr im Prozessor 16 abgeleitete Zeitintervall-Information dienen, wie etwa "täglich 8 Uhr morgens" oder aber "alle 15 Minuten", wobei diese Auslösung in Fig.4 bei 28 veranschaulicht ist. Bei 29 ist ferner gezeigt, dass der Selbsttest von außen her ausgelöst wird, beispielsweise von der zentralen Datenverarbeitungseinrichtung 15. Mit dem Block 30 soll ganz allgemein angedeutet werden, dass noch andere Trigger-Möglichkeiten gegeben sein können.The process of such a self-test of the fixed beacon 4 is illustrated in FIG. It is generally indicated in FIG. 4 at 26 that the self-test was triggered while the test was being carried out is illustrated at 27. To trigger the test, one of the clocks in the Processor 16 derived time interval information is used, such as "8 a.m. daily" or "every 15 minutes", this triggering being illustrated at 28 in FIG. At 29 is also shown that the self-test is triggered from the outside, for example from the central Data processing device 15. Block 30 is intended to indicate in general terms: that there can be other trigger options.

    Bei der Durchführung des Tests, wie bei 27 in Fig.4 gezeigt, kann zuerst die Spannungsversorgung getestet werden, s. Block 31 in Fig.4. Danach wird die eigentliche Sendeeinheit (vgl. Pos.5 in Fig.2) getestet, insbesondere inwieweit die Infrarot-Dioden der Sendeeinheit betriebsbereit sind (Block 32). Gemäß Block 33 kann sodann noch ein Test betreffend Integrität des Speichers 16' und des Prozessors 16 etc. durchgeführt werden. Bei 34 ist in Fig.4 die Entscheidung angedeutet, ob die überprüften Einheiten in Ordnung sind (Ausgang J) oder nicht (Ausgang N). Wenn das Testergebnis positiv ist, wird zu einer Schleife 35 übergegangen und auf die nächste Auslösung 26 gewartet, um dann den Selbsttest wieder bei der Position A' zu beginnen. Im Fall, dass eine Störung festgestellt wird, erfolgt gemäß Block 36 eine Meldung an eine Wartungszentrale, z.B. die zentrale Datenverarbeitungseinrichtung 15 gemäß Fig. 1 und 2.When performing the test, as shown at 27 in Fig. 4, the power supply can first be tested, see Block 31 in Fig. 4. Then the actual transmitter unit (see item 5 in Fig. 2) tested, in particular to what extent the infrared diodes of the transmitter unit are ready for operation are (block 32). According to block 33, a test regarding the integrity of the memory can then be carried out 16 'and the processor 16, etc. are carried out. The decision at 34 is indicated in FIG. whether the checked units are OK (output J) or not (output N). If the test result is positive, a transition is made to a loop 35 and to the next triggering 26 waited to then start the self-test again at position A '. In case that a malfunction is detected, a message is sent to a maintenance center according to block 36, e.g. the central data processing device 15 according to FIGS. 1 and 2.

    Claims (21)

    1. A system for automatically charging fees when pre-determined positions are passed, comprising at least one communication device (4) for dedicated short range communication (DSRC) that is intended for an at least temporarily stationary installation, and at least one mobile communication unit (7) for dedicated short range communication (DSRC), with the DSRC communication device (4) provided to be stationarily installed being adapted for transmitting information identifying itself and its position of installation to the mobile DSRC communication unit (7), characterized in that the DSRC communication device (4) provided for stationary installation and the mobile DSRC communication unit (7) are designed with infrared transmitting and receiving units, respectively, that the DSRC communication device (4) provided for stationary installation is adapted to transmit, together with the information identifying itself and its position, information regarding fees taken from a memory (16') to the mobile DSRC communication unit (7), and that the mobile DSRC communication unit (7) has an associated fee-determining unit (8) for determining the respective fee on the basis of the fee information transmitted by the DSRC communication device (4) provided for stationary installation, as well as a booking unit (8) for booking the determined fee in a value account.
    2. A system according to claim 1, characterized in that the DSRC communication device (4) is merely adapted as a DSRC transmitter (5) for an exclusive information transmission to the mobile communication unit (7).
    3. A system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the DSRC communication device (4) provided for stationary installation contains a clock (16") and transmits information indicating the respective point of time of transmission with the information identifying itself.
    4. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the fee is deducted via a mobile value memory, e.g. a value card or the like value carrier.
    5. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the fee is deducted from an external account.
    6. A system according to claim 1, 2, 3 or 5, characterized in that the fee is deducted via a subscriber meter of a telephone account.
    7. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the mobile DSRC communication unit (7) has an associated cryptographic unit (9).
    8. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the DSRC communication device (4) provided for stationary installation has an associated cryptographic unit.
    9. A system according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that the cryptographic unit (9) has a temporally changing key.
    10. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the mobile DSRC communication unit (7) has an associated memory (11') for storing the information transmitted by the DSRC communication device (4).
    11. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the mobile DSRC communication unit (7) is equipped with a DSRC transmitter, and the DSRC communication device (4) is equipped with a DSRC receiver, and the DSRC communication device (4) has an associated fee charging unit.
    12. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the mobile DSRC communication unit (7) has an associated mobile radio device (10).
    13. A system according to claim 12, characterized in that the mobile DSRC communication unit (7) is in connection with the mobile radio device (10) via a DSRC communication equipment.
    14. A system according to claim 12, characterized in that the mobile DSRC communication unit (7) is directly connected in one unit to the mobile radio device (10).
    15. A system according to claim 14, characterized in that the mobile DSRC communication unit (7) shares one housing with the mobile radio device (10).
    16. A system according to any one of claims 12 to 15, characterized in that the mobile radio device (10) is adapted for transmitting information to a central data processing equipment (15).
    17. A system according to any one of claims 12 to 16, characterized in that the mobile radio device (10) is a cellular phone electrically connected to a hands-free talking device (25).
    18. A system according to claim 17, characterized in that the mobile DSRC communication unit (7') is connected to the electrical connecting point (24) between cellular phone (10) and hands-free talking device (25).
    19. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 18, characterized in that the stationary DSRC communication device (4) has an associated mobile radio device (17).
    20. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 19, characterized in that the stationary DSRC communication device (4) has an associated solar energy device (18) as a power supply.
    21. A system according to any one of claims 1 to 20, characterized in that the DSRC communication device (4) is adapted to carry out a self-test, e.g. for checking the power supply, or the functioning of the communication device, respectively.
    EP01905472A 2000-02-08 2001-02-08 Automatic fee charging system Expired - Lifetime EP1254434B1 (en)

    Priority Applications (1)

    Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
    AT01905472T ATE246384T1 (en) 2000-02-08 2001-02-08 SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATICALLY CHARGING FEES

    Applications Claiming Priority (3)

    Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
    AT0019900A AT412033B (en) 2000-02-08 2000-02-08 SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATIC CHARGING OF FEES
    AT1992000 2000-02-08
    PCT/AT2001/000030 WO2001059711A1 (en) 2000-02-08 2001-02-08 Automatic fee charging system

    Publications (2)

    Publication Number Publication Date
    EP1254434A1 EP1254434A1 (en) 2002-11-06
    EP1254434B1 true EP1254434B1 (en) 2003-07-30

    Family

    ID=3668440

    Family Applications (1)

    Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
    EP01905472A Expired - Lifetime EP1254434B1 (en) 2000-02-08 2001-02-08 Automatic fee charging system

    Country Status (12)

    Country Link
    US (1) US7128262B2 (en)
    EP (1) EP1254434B1 (en)
    JP (1) JP2003526854A (en)
    KR (1) KR20020076275A (en)
    AT (1) AT412033B (en)
    AU (1) AU3347201A (en)
    DE (1) DE50100441D1 (en)
    ES (1) ES2203590T3 (en)
    NO (1) NO20023718D0 (en)
    PT (1) PT1254434E (en)
    WO (1) WO2001059711A1 (en)
    ZA (1) ZA200205601B (en)

    Cited By (1)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    CN102867207A (en) * 2011-07-07 2013-01-09 深圳鼎识科技有限公司 Vehicular radio frequency identification card, base station, vehicular radio frequency identification system and vehicular radio frequency identification method

    Families Citing this family (33)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    DE10033318A1 (en) * 2000-06-29 2002-01-17 Mannesmann Ag Setup and procedure for charging user fees
    US7123879B2 (en) 2001-11-08 2006-10-17 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. Toll charging system and toll charging method
    DE20200510U1 (en) * 2002-01-15 2002-04-18 Siemens Ag Device for locking a DSRC module pivotally connected to the housing of a toll calculator
    KR100474251B1 (en) * 2002-03-22 2005-03-09 한국전자통신연구원 Dedicated short range communication system and timesharing control method among transceiver apparatuses of road side equipment on the same
    US8175799B1 (en) * 2002-10-15 2012-05-08 Douglas Edward Woehler Location system
    KR20020086452A (en) * 2002-10-29 2002-11-18 주식회사 사일릭스 DSRC Container Logistics Information Systems Using MYBI Card
    AT414052B (en) 2002-12-19 2006-08-15 Efkon Ag MOTOR VEHICLE INFRARED (IR) - COMMUNICATION DEVICE
    CA2513909A1 (en) * 2003-01-22 2004-08-05 Francotyp-Postalia Ag & Co. Kg Method and device for mobile data transmission
    DE10302449A1 (en) * 2003-01-22 2004-08-12 Francotyp-Postalia Ag & Co. Kg Mobile data transmission involves transmitting data via at least one mobile first transmitter, whereby transmitted data contain first data that are authenticated using cryptographic arrangement
    US7363117B2 (en) * 2004-03-31 2008-04-22 Nissan Technical Center North America, Inc. Method and system for communication between vehicles traveling along a similar path
    DE102005030030A1 (en) * 2005-03-09 2006-12-14 Mps Solutions Gmbh Position and toll-based data processing system for vehicles includes on-board unit and back office having interfaces for enabling exchange of data
    WO2007012208A1 (en) * 2005-07-25 2007-02-01 Fela Management Ag Method and device for levying tolls
    US8140265B2 (en) * 2006-03-21 2012-03-20 Skymeter Corporation Private, auditable vehicle positioning system and on-board unit for same
    GB2451167A (en) * 2007-07-16 2009-01-21 Charles Graham Palmer Separation of cost calculation means and payment services in a Position-Based Charging system.
    US9378515B1 (en) 2009-01-09 2016-06-28 Twc Patent Trust Llt Proximity and time based content downloader
    EP2256695A1 (en) * 2009-05-25 2010-12-01 Kapsch TrafficCom AG Road toll system, vehicle device and method for same
    JP5414457B2 (en) * 2009-10-27 2014-02-12 京セラ株式会社 Mobile communication terminal, communication system, and communication method
    ATE546803T1 (en) * 2009-11-23 2012-03-15 Kapsch Trafficcom Ag METHOD AND DEVICE FOR GENERATING TOLL INFORMATION IN A ROAD TOLL SYSTEM
    ES2389246T3 (en) 2010-01-29 2012-10-24 Kapsch Trafficcom Ag Procedure for DSRC communication
    DE102010011645A1 (en) 2010-03-16 2011-09-22 Francotyp-Postalia Gmbh Data processing arrangement for use in motor car e.g. electric car, has processing unit that modifies input data as function of state change of vehicle components, and stores in secured form before manipulation
    SI2383703T1 (en) * 2010-04-29 2012-12-31 Kapsch Trafficcom Ag Wireless beacon for wireless road toll system
    ES2435015T3 (en) * 2011-06-29 2013-12-18 Kapsch Trafficcom Ag Procedure to determine toll rates in a road toll system
    CN102915573A (en) * 2012-03-30 2013-02-06 梁嘉麟 Swiping charging method utilizing safety camera of highway for automatic charging monitoring
    US10096172B2 (en) * 2012-04-23 2018-10-09 Transparent Wireless Systems, Llc Methods and systems for electronic payment for on-street parking
    CN102831654A (en) * 2012-06-13 2012-12-19 中国计量学院 Method for mobile phone informing payment using expressway overspeed vehicle video monitoring system capable of automatically charging
    DE102012215734A1 (en) * 2012-09-05 2014-03-06 Continental Automotive Gmbh Transponder device for toll detecting system for passenger car, has external interface arranged to establish communication link with finding apparatus in vehicle, so that toll collecting relevant data is transferred to apparatus
    US9043146B2 (en) * 2013-06-19 2015-05-26 The Boeing Company Systems and methods for tracking location of movable target object
    SI2860703T1 (en) 2013-10-08 2016-10-28 Kapsch Trafficcom Ag Method for checking toll transactions and components therefor
    DE102014115840A1 (en) * 2014-10-30 2016-05-04 Scheidt & Bachmann Gmbh Toll collection by means of radio beacons
    DE102015209839A1 (en) * 2015-05-28 2016-12-01 Siemens Aktiengesellschaft Apparatus, system and method for determining a location of a mobile device during a payment transaction
    JP6760743B2 (en) * 2016-03-11 2020-09-23 株式会社ゼンリン Moving body positioning system
    US11301948B2 (en) 2019-04-01 2022-04-12 International Business Machines Corporation Parking continuity with unused duration between automated vehicles
    US11030889B2 (en) * 2019-08-06 2021-06-08 Ford Global Technologies, Llc Systems and methods for dynamic traffic lane management

    Family Cites Families (17)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    FR2609812B1 (en) * 1987-01-20 1989-04-21 Dinoki Pierre METHOD AND DEVICE FOR LOCATING AND IDENTIFYING MOBILE ELEMENTS
    US5101200A (en) * 1989-06-09 1992-03-31 Swett Paul H Fast lane credit card
    US5347274A (en) * 1990-05-17 1994-09-13 At/Comm Incorporated Hazardous waste transport management system
    US5289183A (en) * 1992-06-19 1994-02-22 At/Comm Incorporated Traffic monitoring and management method and apparatus
    DE4310580A1 (en) * 1993-03-31 1994-10-06 Siemens Ag Automatic fee entry system
    US5347280A (en) * 1993-07-02 1994-09-13 Texas Instruments Deutschland Gmbh Frequency diversity transponder arrangement
    GB9401924D0 (en) * 1994-02-01 1994-03-30 Jonhig Ltd System for road toll payment
    US5490079A (en) * 1994-08-19 1996-02-06 Texas Instruments Incorporated System for automated toll collection assisted by GPS technology
    ES2286822T3 (en) 1995-12-19 2007-12-01 First Data Deutschland Gmbh PROCEDURE AND DEVICES FOR THE USE AND COMPENSATION OF ELECTRONIC PAYMENT MEANS IN AN OPEN AND INTEROPERABLE SYSTEM FOR AUTOMATIC FEE EXACTION.
    AT410873B (en) 1997-07-10 2003-08-25 Efkon Entwicklung Forschung & Konstruktion Von Sondermaschinen Gmbh DATA RECEIVER CIRCUIT FOR INFRARED SIGNALS
    KR100230581B1 (en) 1997-08-13 1999-11-15 윤종용 Communication method of electronic passage fare collecting system
    DE19750047A1 (en) * 1997-11-12 1999-05-20 Bosch Gmbh Robert Directional short-range communication method (DSRC) and transponder therefor
    SE510080C2 (en) * 1997-12-22 1999-04-19 Combitech Traffic Syst Ab Method of automatic charging of customs duties for vehicles
    SE514814C2 (en) * 1998-03-17 2001-04-30 Combitech Traffic Syst Ab Method of automatic debiting
    ES2223176T5 (en) * 1998-06-18 2009-12-02 Vodafone Holding Gmbh FOOTWEAR SIDE CONTROL DEVICE FOR A TOLL EQUIPMENT INSTALLED IN A VEHICLE.
    IT1306768B1 (en) * 1999-01-27 2001-10-02 Marcello Federici AUTOMATIC CHARGING SYSTEM FOR TRANSPORTATION VEHICLES.
    US6394343B1 (en) * 1999-10-14 2002-05-28 Jon N. Berg System for card to card transfer of monetary values

    Cited By (1)

    * Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
    Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
    CN102867207A (en) * 2011-07-07 2013-01-09 深圳鼎识科技有限公司 Vehicular radio frequency identification card, base station, vehicular radio frequency identification system and vehicular radio frequency identification method

    Also Published As

    Publication number Publication date
    ZA200205601B (en) 2003-07-14
    JP2003526854A (en) 2003-09-09
    DE50100441D1 (en) 2003-09-04
    WO2001059711A1 (en) 2001-08-16
    ATA1992000A (en) 2004-01-15
    PT1254434E (en) 2003-12-31
    AT412033B (en) 2004-08-26
    ES2203590T3 (en) 2004-04-16
    NO20023718L (en) 2002-08-06
    EP1254434A1 (en) 2002-11-06
    US7128262B2 (en) 2006-10-31
    US20030011494A1 (en) 2003-01-16
    KR20020076275A (en) 2002-10-09
    NO20023718D0 (en) 2002-08-06
    AU3347201A (en) 2001-08-20

    Similar Documents

    Publication Publication Date Title
    EP1254434B1 (en) Automatic fee charging system
    EP1088286B1 (en) Roadside control device for a toll apparatus installed in a motor vehicle
    DE69831096T2 (en) METHOD FOR AUTOMATICALLY CHARGING TOLLS FOR VEHICLES
    EP0741891B1 (en) Method and system for determining toll charges for traffic routes and/or areas
    EP1105848B1 (en) Debiting device for deducting tolls
    DE69028756T2 (en) Automatic customs release system for urban and extra-urban highways, for bridges and tunnels and for access to urban areas and parking lots
    EP2835788B1 (en) Method for controlling entry and exit in multi-storey car parks and parking facilities
    EP1358635B1 (en) Method for determining road tolls
    EP1210693B1 (en) Method and system for registering tickets
    EP1101201B1 (en) Method and system for monitoring the proper operation of a debiting device
    EP0802509A2 (en) Automatic road use charging method
    EP1630747A2 (en) Toll collection system and method
    EP1200938B1 (en) Control unit for verifying proper functioning of toll devices installed in vehicles
    EP1192600A1 (en) Flexible charge collection system
    CN106971428A (en) Intelligent travel parking restricted driving all-purpose card method
    EP0700551B1 (en) Process and device on board a vehicle for electronically charging for the use of toll roads
    EP0741373B1 (en) System for detecting the distance travelled by a vehicle in a given area
    EP0701722B1 (en) Device in a vehicle for charging for the use of toll roads
    EP1203354B2 (en) Method for automatically charging tolls and device therefor
    DE10205162A1 (en) Device for determining user charges
    EP1170702A2 (en) Device and method for charging usage fees
    WO1999034318A1 (en) Emitting and receiving unit for paying freeway tolls

    Legal Events

    Date Code Title Description
    PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

    17P Request for examination filed

    Effective date: 20020826

    AK Designated contracting states

    Kind code of ref document: A1

    Designated state(s): AT BE CH CY DE DK ES FI FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE TR

    AX Request for extension of the european patent

    Free format text: AL;LT;LV;MK;RO;SI

    GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

    GRAH Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA

    GRAA (expected) grant

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

    AK Designated contracting states

    Designated state(s): AT BE CH CY DE DK ES FI FR GB GR IE IT LI LU MC NL PT SE TR

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: CY

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20030730

    Ref country code: FI

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20030730

    Ref country code: IE

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20030730

    Ref country code: TR

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20030730

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: GB

    Ref legal event code: FG4D

    Free format text: NOT ENGLISH

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: CH

    Ref legal event code: EP

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: IE

    Ref legal event code: FG4D

    Free format text: GERMAN

    REF Corresponds to:

    Ref document number: 50100441

    Country of ref document: DE

    Date of ref document: 20030904

    Kind code of ref document: P

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: CH

    Ref legal event code: NV

    Representative=s name: ROTTMANN, ZIMMERMANN + PARTNER AG

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: SE

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20031030

    Ref country code: DK

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

    Effective date: 20031030

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: GR

    Ref legal event code: EP

    Ref document number: 20030404423

    Country of ref document: GR

    GBT Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977)

    Effective date: 20031106

    LTIE Lt: invalidation of european patent or patent extension

    Effective date: 20030730

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: GR

    Payment date: 20040130

    Year of fee payment: 4

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: PT

    Payment date: 20040204

    Year of fee payment: 4

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: LU

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20040208

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: TR

    Payment date: 20040209

    Year of fee payment: 4

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: FR

    Payment date: 20040210

    Year of fee payment: 4

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: ES

    Payment date: 20040212

    Year of fee payment: 4

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: MC

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20040228

    Ref country code: BE

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20040228

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: IE

    Ref legal event code: FD4D

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: ES

    Ref legal event code: FG2A

    Ref document number: 2203590

    Country of ref document: ES

    Kind code of ref document: T3

    ET Fr: translation filed
    PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

    Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

    STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

    Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

    26N No opposition filed

    Effective date: 20040504

    BERE Be: lapsed

    Owner name: *EFKON A.G.

    Effective date: 20040228

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: IT

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20050208

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: ES

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20050209

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: LI

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20050228

    Ref country code: CH

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20050228

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: PT

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20050808

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: NL

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20050901

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: GR

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20050905

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: PT

    Ref legal event code: MM4A

    Effective date: 20050808

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: CH

    Ref legal event code: PL

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: FR

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20051031

    NLV4 Nl: lapsed or anulled due to non-payment of the annual fee

    Effective date: 20050901

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: FR

    Ref legal event code: ST

    Effective date: 20051031

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: GB

    Payment date: 20051222

    Year of fee payment: 6

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: AT

    Payment date: 20060222

    Year of fee payment: 6

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: ES

    Ref legal event code: FD2A

    Effective date: 20050209

    GBPC Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee

    Effective date: 20070208

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: AT

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20070208

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: GB

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20070208

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: DE

    Ref legal event code: R082

    Ref document number: 50100441

    Country of ref document: DE

    Representative=s name: KONLE, CHRISTIAN, DR., DE

    Ref country code: DE

    Ref legal event code: R081

    Ref document number: 50100441

    Country of ref document: DE

    Owner name: EFKON GMBH, AT

    Free format text: FORMER OWNER: EFKON AG, GRAZ, AT

    PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: DE

    Payment date: 20180221

    Year of fee payment: 18

    REG Reference to a national code

    Ref country code: DE

    Ref legal event code: R119

    Ref document number: 50100441

    Country of ref document: DE

    PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

    Ref country code: DE

    Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

    Effective date: 20190903