Abstract:
In order to model an environment as naturally and realistically as possible, a method and an apparatus according to the invention allow the environment to be determined as perceived by a person, that is to say largely covering all of the sensory organs. In this case, the apparatus is in the form of a multisensor integrated measurement system which is used for simultaneous recording, in a manner typical of a person, of measurement signals, such as acoustic and optical signals, light radiation signals, heat signals and smell signals, and to reproduce them authentically.

Description:
[0001]    This application claims the priority of German Patent Document No. 101 33 103.7, filed Jul. 12, 2001, and PCT/EP02/07143, filed Jun. 28, 2002 the disclosure of which is expressly incorporated by reference herein, respectively.  
           [0002]    The invention relates to a method and an apparatus for measurement and modeling of an environment, for example a vehicle environment, which is perceived subjectively by a person.  
           [0003]    German Patent DE 197 49 588 A1 U.S. equivalent U.S. Pat. No. 6,035,720 discloses a method and an apparatus for simulation of an impression, which is perceived subjectively by an occupant of a vehicle, during operation of the vehicle, in which sound sensors which are integrated in the vehicle are provided in order to determine complaints, such as vibration oscillations or disturbing noise signals. This has the disadvantage that this apparatus allows only one vehicle-related simulation.  
           [0004]    European Patent EP 0 357 893 A2 discloses a method for measurement of the traffic flow on roads, in which vehicles traveling past are detected and assessed by means of acoustic sensors which are arranged along the road, or by means of electrooptical sensors which are arranged outside the vehicle.  
           [0005]    Prior art systems use a noise pattern to determine the relevant environment in the vehicle or outside the vehicle. The use of sensors which are arranged in a decentralized manner in the environment does not allow realistic recording of noises which affect the person or of other events which act on the person and can be measured.  
           [0006]    The invention is therefore based on the object of specifying a method and an apparatus for measurement and modeling of an environment which is perceived subjectively by a person, and which apparatus models the environment as naturally and realistically as possible.  
           [0007]    The method and the apparatus according to the invention allow the environment to be determined as perceived by a person, that is to say largely covering all of the sensory organs. In this case, the apparatus is in the form of a multisensor integrated measurement system which is used for simultaneous recording, in a manner typical of a person, of measurement signals, such as acoustic and optical signals, light radiation signals, heat signals and smell signals, and to reproduce them authentically. The measurement system advantageously has a noise measurement head (German Patent DE 35 09 376 C2), which is known from acoustic measurement technology and is designed in an anthropoid manner, combined with measurement devices, which are designed in an anthropoid manner, for optical, structure-borne sound, immission, smell and touch recording.  
           [0008]    A quasi-humanoid multisensor measurement and reproduction system such as this allows largely natural recording and modeling, matched to the senses, of acoustic and optical impressions, perceived by the person, as well as immission or smell impressions. The noise measurement head, which is designed in an anthropoid manner, for the quasi-humanoid multisensor measurement and reproduction system for this purpose expediently has added to it further optical, structure-borne sound, immission, heat, meteorological, radioactivity, electrosmog, magnetic field, seismological and/or smell recording systems which are designed in an anthropoid manner, are linked to one another and in consequence are integrated in a measurement system.  
           [0009]    A complex measurement system such as this furthermore allows exact association between acoustic events and relevant optical events, immission, weather, radioactivity, electrosmog, magnetic field, seismological and/or smell events.  
           [0010]    The measurement system, which is also referred to as a quasi-humanoid multisensor measurement and reproduction system, is preferably used to record and reproduce one or more signals in parallel with an authenticity which is similar to humanoid perception.  
           [0011]    The measurement system expediently comprises at least two noise sensors, for example microphones, which are arranged in a measurement or artificial head which is designed in an anthropoid manner. Loudspeakers, in the form of headsets and/or bass-tone loudspeakers, are also provided for reproduction of the recorded data. In addition, at least one optical measurement device, for example a stereo camera or stereo heat camera, is arranged in the eye-cavity area of the artificial head. The measurement system comprises at least one immission and/or smell sensor in order to record measurement signals which represent further sensory organs of the relevant person, such as immission and smell signals. The measurement system also comprises so-called shakers, Cyperspaces, video screens and/or heat emitters as well as convection heat, moisture, humidity, wind, smell, radiation, hazardous substance, electrosmog, magnetic field and/or radioactivity conditioning for reproduction of the recorded data. The noise sensors, the optical measurement devices and the immission and/or smell sensors are advantageously sensitive with regard to the arrangement and function of the human anatomy. This means that the measurement system is in the form of an artificial head with measurement sensors which are provided for relevant sensory organs.  
           [0012]    Alternatively or additionally, the measurement system comprises at least one meteorological measurement device, for example a temperature, moisture, humidity, air pressure, global radiation, wind direction and/or wind speed sensor. Furthermore, sensors may be provided for recording structure-borne sound, radioactivity, electrosmog and/or seismology. Depending on the nature and function of the sensors, they may be integrated and/or arranged in and/or outside the measurement system. The measurement system is also referred to as a quasi-humanoid multisensor artificial head.  
           [0013]    In order to process the recorded measurement signals, the quasi-humanoid multisensor measurement and reproduction system preferably has a data processing unit. In this case, the data processing unit is preferably integrated in the measurement system. Alternatively or additionally, the data processing unit is arranged separately, that is to say in an external electronic data processing unit. In this case, the data processing unit is connected to a control center, for example without the use of wires via a GSM network.  
           [0014]    In order to assess system-dependent signals which act on the relevant person and/or can be perceived by the person, operating signals which characterize the environment are advantageously recorded, determined, analyzed and/or assessed. For example, discrete measurement variables from specific recording systems, such as a vehicle weighbridge in an observed roadway section in the area of influence of the quasi-humanoid multisensor measurement and reproduction system are recorded, and may be processed with the measurement signals recorded by the measurement and reproduction system.  
           [0015]    Alternatively or additionally, the measurement system or the artificial measurement head has at least one opening for taking samples of immission data which is acting on the measurement system. By way of example, a [lacuna] mouth and nose openings, which are designed in an anthropoid manner, are provided in the artificial measurement head as sampling points for determination of gaseous and/or aerosol immission and/or smell loads.  
           [0016]    For particularly realistic recording and modeling, the noise sensors are, in particular, in the form of microphones with an isotropic and/or directional characteristic and/or matching the specific directional characteristic of artificial head outer ears. The noise sensors are preferably integrated in the measurement system, that is to say in the artificial measurement head. Alternatively or additionally, they may also be arranged outside the artificial measurement head. The measurement system is expediently arranged such that it can rotate and/or such that its position can be varied. For this purpose, the artificial measurement head is arranged such that it can rotate about its vertical and/or horizontal axis. This means that the artificial measurement head can rotate laterally and/or can be moved or inclined about the trunk or head, and its vertical position can also be moved, for example with respect to its distance from the floor or ground. Depending on the nature and embodiment of the measurement system, automatic alignment is possible as a function of measurement signals which can be predetermined and/or which are currently being recorded, and which are recorded by means of measurement sensors, for example by means of acoustic, optical, immission, smell, temperature, moisture, humidity, air pressure, global radiation, wind direction, wind speed, structure-borne sound, radioactivity, electrosmog, touch and/or seismological and/or chemical sensors. In other words: the stated automatic changes to the alignment of the measurement system can be carried out as a function of acoustic, optical, immission, smell, temperature, moisture, humidity, air pressure, global radiation, wind direction, wind speed, structure-borne sound, radioactivity, electrosmog and/or seismological measurement data or signals. Depending on the nature and embodiment, the measurement data may be supplied to an open-loop and/or closed-loop control module. In this case, the open-loop and/or closed-loop control module is used, for example, to influence a traffic flow, with neural networks and/or fuzzy logic being used depending on the complexity of a process such as this.  
           [0017]    The sensors of the measurement system are preferably calibrated by linking measurement and reproduction algorithms for individual sensors and/or for all of the sensors on the basis of empirically determined correction families of characteristics, for example in order to take account of the “perceived temperature” or “headset correction curves”.  
           [0018]    In order to store and thus record the recorded acoustic, optical, immission, smell, temperature, moisture, humidity, air pressure, global radiation, wind direction, wind speed, structure-borne sound, radioactivity, electrosmog and/or seismological data, the measurement system has a data memory, for example a temporary dynamic or static memory. Depending on the nature and embodiment, the data memory may be integrated in the measurement system or may be in the form of a separate, external unit. For example, a dynamic or temporary memory is used in those situations in which its content comprises currently recorded measurement data for particularly realistic open-loop and/or closed-loop control. In this case, for example, currently recorded data is stored having a previous time period, for example of two minutes, which can be predetermined, and is continuously overwritten by subsequently recorded data. Alternatively or additionally, the data can be stored permanently on an event-dependent basis, for example as a function of limit values which can be predetermined for the acoustic, optical, immission, smell, temperature, moisture, humidity, air pressure, global radiation, wind direction, wind speed, structure-borne sound, radioactivity, electrosmog and/or seismological data, and/or as a function of external data.  
           [0019]    The measurement system expediently comprises an analysis module for pattern comparison, for assessment and/or linking of recorded measurement signals, meteorological signals and/or operating signals. For example, the data recorded by internal and/or external sensors is processed using an analysis algorithm which is integrated in the analysis module. In this case, for example, the data is compared with relevant and possibly stored structure data and/or pattern data, such as data relating to a vehicle identification, voice, weight, noise or iris identification data, is identified, is associated, is stored and/or may be transmitted to other measurement systems. Artificial intelligence methods such as neural networks and/or fuzzy logic, are preferably used for looking for, identification, association and storage of significant structures and patterns.  
           [0020]    Furthermore, data or results from individual interpretation or analysis steps are linked to one another for analysis of the measurement signals from internal and/or external sensors. A linking process such as this carried out on individual analysis results determines an underlying cause for the recorded measurement signals, that is to say an event which is currently taking place in the environment of the quasi-humanoid multisensor measurement and reproduction system. In particular, for example, the linking of the results from simultaneous video and thermal imaging analysis in order to determine the vehicle geometry, particle emissions and heat sources together with an analysis of the airborne sound and structure-borne sound which is carried out at the same time make it possible to synchronously localize the exhaust gas opening of a vehicle and, by means of concentration analysis, to identify, for example, vehicles with high exhaust gas concentrations (so-called “exhaust gas infringers”). Depending on the nature and configuration, individual prioritization of specific analysis results is possible for linking interpretation options for the individual analysis results.  
           [0021]    In one preferred embodiment, any rolling movements of vehicle bodywork is recorded and determined by means of the measurement system, for example by means of a video analysis. This makes it possible, for example, to draw conclusions about whether the chassis or the vehicle load is wrong or correct, and whether the driver is fit to drive. The analysis of rolling movements of vehicle bodywork is carried out, for example, on the basis of a test signal. For this purpose, the test signal is introduced into the chassis, for example in the form of a transverse joint which must be driven over in a defined manner. This additionally assists the analysis of rolling movements in that the chassis is stimulated, for example, vertically in a similar manner to a dirac shock. Artificial intelligence methods, such as neural networks and/or fuzzy logic, are used for analysis of rolling movements of vehicle bodywork.  
           [0022]    In a further preferred embodiment, a car driver who is using a mobile telephone to make a telephone call while driving is identified by means of the measurement system on the basis of linking or processing an analysis of recorded electromagnetic fields, for example of fields around mobile radios, with other signal analyses, for example with a specific video analysis. In this case, for example, the use of a mobile telephone is checked for compliance with the law, for example whether the mobile telephone is against the ear or a hands-free device is being used and, if appropriate and the law is being infringed, communicates the results of the analysis to a vehicle identification system, for example a license plate recording system. Artificial intelligence methods, such as neural networks and/or fuzzy logic, are preferably used for checking whether a driver is using a mobile telephone in accordance with the law while driving.  
           [0023]    In order to improve the safety and/or environmental compatibility in traffic, the results of different signal analyses, for example of video and thermal imaging analysis, airborne sound and structure-borne sound analysis as well as immission analysis are logically linked, are checked for plausibility, are compared with predetermined data and/or stored if the analysis results are overshot, undershot or are complied with, and/or are transmitted to an external data recording system, data processing system and/or control system. For example, when it is dark and a light is not switched on, when a light (turn indicator, brake light) is defective, and/or if a traffic light system is driven through when red, the relevant analysis results are passed to a control center or command center, for example to a responsible authority. Artificial intelligence methods, such as neural networks, and/or fuzzy logic, are preferably used for such logic linking and for the subsequent plausibility check of various analysis results, and for comparison of analysis results with predetermined data, in order to improve safety and/or environmental compatibility.  
           [0024]    In order to identify objects and people as well and quickly as possible, for example for access control systems such as the so-called “electronic gatekeeper”, the results of signal analyses, such as video and thermal imaging analysis, noise analysis, analysis of biometric data (for example fingerprints, face, irises, voice, body smell and breathing smell, alcohol content of the breath), magnetic and/or optical analysis of passes and/or freight bills and/or vehicle parts, for example license plate, and weight analyses are logically linked, are checked for plausibility and/or are compared with predetermined data by means of the measurement system. If appropriate, for example in the event of an overshoot or undershoot or in the event of a match, the analysis results are stored and/or are communicated to an external data recording system, data processing system and/or control system. Artificial intelligence methods, such as neural networks and/or fuzzy logic are used for logic linking and for plausibility checking of the analysis results, as well as for the comparison of the analysis results with predetermined data in order to improve the hit probability for an associated automatic identification of an object or person.  
           [0025]    The measurement system is advantageously connected to an adjacent measurement system for interchanging relevant measurement signals, meteorological signals and/or operating signals.  
           [0026]    A network such as this which comprises two or more quasi-humanoid multisensor measurement and reproduction systems which communicate with one another in this case allows, in particular, continuous monitoring and tracking of a vehicle, and/or of a person and/or of any other desired moving and/or stationary object, for example of a container over a recording field, for example a road network or a factory site. In this case, for example, speeds and driving times for drivers of a particular route can be determined, and toll fees can be paid without any intermediate stop.  
           [0027]    In a further preferred embodiment of the quasi-humanoid multisensor measurement and reproduction system, a serviceability check, a search for faults or fault analysis is carried out, for example, for vehicles, in order, for example, to detect hazardous exhaust gas concentrations in the interior of the vehicle resulting from a leakage in the exhaust gas manifold or, for example, a defective hydraulic ram. Further vehicle data, such as the camshaft position, can be taken into account in the fault analysis, if appropriate in real time, via an interface, for example an optical interface, with the vehicle being stationary or during test drives.  
           [0028]    The respective measurement system is expediently used to store the data which is recorded by internal and/or external sensors as well as the data which is evaluated during the signal analysis, and/or to pass such data on to external systems, such as data recording systems, data processing systems and/or control systems. The measurement system preferably communicates bidirectionally with an adjacent measurement system and/or with a control center, that is to say the measurement system can receive information, data and/or control signals from external data recording systems, data processing systems and/or control systems. This ensures that the influence of adjacent measurement systems is taken into account during analyses in the measurement system. 
       
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
       [0029]    Exemplary embodiments of the invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the drawing, in which:  
         [0030]    [0030]FIG. 1 shows, schematically, an apparatus for measurement and modeling of an environment which is perceived subjectively by a person,  
         [0031]    [0031]FIG. 2 shows, schematically, an evaluation unit for the apparatus shown in FIG. 1,  
         [0032]    [0032]FIG. 3 shows, schematically, an apparatus which is designed in an anthropoid manner as shown in FIG. 1, and  
         [0033]    [0033]FIGS. 4-9 show various application options for the apparatus shown in FIG. 1. 
     
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS  
       [0034]    Mutually corresponding parts are provided with the same reference symbols in all of the figures.  
         [0035]    [0035]FIG. 1 shows an apparatus  1  for measurement and modeling of an environment U which is perceived subjectively by a person P. The apparatus  1 , which is also referred to as a measurement and reproduction system, comprises a multisensor measurement system  2  for recording, and an evaluation unit  4  for determination of two or more measurement signals M which characterize the environment U and can be perceived by the person P.  
         [0036]    The multisensor measurement system  2  has a measurement sensor system appropriate for the physical variables which act on the sensory organs of the person P. In this case, optical signals O, acoustic signals A, immission signals I and/or smell signals G are recorded as measurement signals M by means of the measurement system  2 . For this purpose, the measurement system  2  comprises at least two noise sensors  6  for recording and reproduction of the auditory sense of the person P, at least one optical measurement device  8  for recording and reproduction of the visual acuity of the person P, at least one immission sensor  10  for recording and reproduction of immissions that act on the person P, and/or at least one smell sensor  12  for recording and reproduction of the sense of smell of the person P.  
         [0037]    Alternatively or additionally, the measurement system  2  may comprise further sensors, which are represented by dashed lines in FIG. 1, for recording and determination of meteorological signals W which characterize the environment U, and/or operating signals B, for example at least one meteorological measurement device  14 , at least one hazardous substance sensor  16 , at least one radioactivity sensor  18  and/or at least one electrosmog sensor  20  and/or at least one sensor for seismology  21  and/or for touch.  
         [0038]    Depending on the nature and function of the apparatus  1 , the measurement signals M, the meteorological signals W and/or the operating signals B are determined preferably in real time and thus in parallel, and are linked to one another, by means of the evaluation unit  4 , to comply with the relevant requirements. Alternatively, the signals may also be recorded and determined separately or only on request and thus on an event-controlled basis, for example when a limit value is exceeded. For this purpose, the evaluation unit  4  has at least one analysis module  22  for pattern comparison, for assessment and/or for linking the measurement signals M, the meteorological signals W and/or the operating signals B. Depending on the requirement, the analysis module  22  is used to process currently detected signals and/or previous signals which are stored in a data memory  24 , and/or patterns which represent the signals.  
         [0039]    The evaluation unit  4  furthermore comprises a test module  26  for plausibility checking and/or an open-loop and/or closed-loop control module  28  for influencing the environment U, in particular for influencing a traffic flow, as a function of the measurement signals M, meteorological signals W and/or operating signals B which are recorded by means of the measurement system  2 . For this purpose, the evaluation unit  4  is connected to a control center or command center  34 , or to drive units  36 , such as a motor, by means of a communication module  30 , for example a modem, and/or by means of a drive module  32 .  
         [0040]    [0040]FIG. 2 illustrates the evaluation unit  4  shown in FIG. 1, in more detail. The signals S which are recorded by the measurement system  2  are supplied to an associated measurement value conditioning module  38 , depending on the signal type and/or function. The signals S are then processed and, if appropriate, linked to one another, by means of the analysis module  22  in order to form control signals C. The control signals C are supplied to the open-loop and/or closed-loop control module  28  in order to control the drive units  36 . Depending on the requirement, the signals S, the control signals C and/or intermediate results may be stored in the data memory  24 . For this purpose, the data memory  24  has signal-dependent memory areas, with the relevant signals S being stored as a function of the signal type in a dynamic memory area, which is overwritten after a period of time, and/or in static memory areas for archiving. The signals S which are stored as data D in the data memory  24  may be passed on to external systems, for example to a command center, to a control center Z or to a toll station, for example by means of the Internet or, for example, by means of a tie line.  
         [0041]    [0041]FIG. 3 shows one embodiment of the apparatus  1 . The apparatus  1  comprises the integrated measurement system  2 , which is provided for simultaneous recording, as perceived by a person, of acoustic signals A and optical signals O, immission signals I as well as heat and smell signals G together with radioactivity signals, electrosmog signals, magnetic field signals, seismology signals and/or meteorological signals, and their authentic reproduction by means of the evaluation unit  4 .  
         [0042]    The geometrical configuration of the apparatus  1  is in this case modeled at least on a human body part  40 , for example an upper body. In this case, the noise sensors  12 , for example microphones, are arranged in outer ears  42  that are formed, the optical measurement device  8 , for example a stereo camera or a stereo heat camera, is arranged in eye cavities  44  that are formed, the immission sensor  10  is arranged in a model of the mouth opening  46 , and the smell sensor  12  is arranged in a model of the nasal cavities. The arrangement and configuration of the sensors on the measurement system  2  are in this case matched to the respective function and position of the sensory organs of the person P and to the respective environment U to be monitored, and may be varied.  
         [0043]    An apparatus  1  of this type which is designed in an anthropoid manner allows particularly realistic and natural optical, structure-borne sound, immission and smell recording, as well as radioactivity, electrosmog, magnetic field, seismology and/or meteorological recording. A quasi-humanoid multisensor measurement and reproduction system such as this allows the acoustic impressions, which are recorded in a similar way to human beings, to have added to them the associated optical, immission or smell impressions, or meteorological impressions, which are likewise recorded in a similar manner to human beings. The logical linking process on which the quasi-humanoid multisensor measurement and reproduction system is based between the measurement head, which is constructed to be similar to a human being, and the optical structure-borne sound, immission, smell, radioactivity, electrosmog, magnetic field, seismographic and meteorological recording systems, which are designed to be similar to human beings, allows simultaneous recording and reproduction, as perceived by a human being, of acoustic, optical, immission, smell, radioactive, electrosmog, magnetic field, seismographic and meteorological events. This also allows, for example, exact association between acoustic events and the matching optical, immission, smell, radioactivity, electrosmog, magnetic field, seismographic and meteorological events, and operating data from external systems.  
         [0044]    In addition, the apparatus  1  also has sensors which relate to the person P and to the environment U, such as the precipitation or hazardous substance sensor  16  and the meteorological measurement device  14 , for example a wind direction sensor, a wind speed sensor, and a light radiation sensor, which are arranged at appropriate positions, for example on the head  48 , depending on their function. Furthermore, the radioactivity sensor  18  and/or the electrosmog sensor  20  are/is arranged close to the chest  50 . Depending on the nature and requirement, a temperature sensor  52 , an air pressure sensor  54 , a moisture or humidity sensor  56 , an arrangement of structure-borne sound sensors  58  for recording oscillations in all degrees of freedom and for seismological recordings and/or a speech sensor  60  may be provided at relative positions, depending on the function, of the body part  40 .  
         [0045]    The evaluation unit  4  is integrated in the interior of the body part  40  and is thus arranged particularly securely for protection against external influences, and is connected to the sensors of the measurement system  2  with and/or without the use of wires. For communication with the control center Z or with adjacent autonomous apparatuses  1 , the body part  40  has the communication module  30 , for example an antenna, in a position where reception is good, in particular on the head  48 . Depending on the field of application of the apparatus  1 , this apparatus is arranged such that it can rotate and/or such that its position can be varied. For this purpose, the apparatus  1  has at least one drive unit  36 , for example a motor  36   a  in the neck area  62  for head inclination and/or rotation, a motor  36   b  in the spinal column area  64  for trunk inclination, for rotary movement, for sideways movement and/or for vertical movement. The open-loop and/or closed-loop control module  28  is used to control the motors  36   a  to  36   b  automatically, on an event-controlled basis or manually as a function of signals recorded by the measurement system  2 , with the apparatus  1  accordingly being moved in a corresponding manner and being aligned appropriately for the measurement task.  
         [0046]    [0046]FIG. 4 shows one possible field of application of the apparatus  1  for vehicle monitoring, in particular for monitoring for a maximum permissible vehicle weight, for a maximum permissible axle load and/or for a maximum permissible vehicle load. For this purpose, the apparatus  1 , which is also referred to as a quasi-humanoid multisensor measurement and reproduction system, is arranged on a road  66  in whose roadway  68  at least one weighbridge  70  is installed for measurement in one vehicle lane, for example of the individual force on the left-hand or right-hand side of a vehicle  72  traveling over it. In this case, the measurement system  2  of the apparatus  1  is used to record optical signals O, acoustic signals A, immission signals I and/or operating signals B for the vehicle  72  driving past, which are processed and assessed by means of the evaluation unit  4  on the basis of the analysis module. Furthermore, the weight as recorded by means of the weighbridge  70 , in particular the distribution on the lanes and axles, is supplied via a data transmission unit  74  to the evaluation unit  4  for linking to the signals recorded by means of the measurement system  2 . On the basis of the recorded and supplied measurement signals M, operating signals B and further signals such as the weight, data is emitted to the control center Z relating to the speed, the noise emission and weight as well as relating to the vehicle type, the correct loading (on one side or overloading, or exceeding of the maximum permissible axle load), vehicle identification, a vehicle height, and emission, via an output unit  76 , for example a screen, by means of the evaluation unit  4  or by means of the communication module  30 . The recorded signals and/or the assessed data are/is, furthermore, stored in the data memory  24 . Any overshoots of maximum permissible values may, furthermore, be communicated to other systems, and may be stored.  
         [0047]    Alternatively or additionally, the position of the apparatus  1  may be varied as a function of recorded signals. For example, as is shown in FIG. 5, the apparatus  1  is arranged at a busy road junction  78  at the edge of an industrial site  80  which emits noise, and at the edge of residential areas  81 . This road junction  78  is subject to a periodically varying, severe, city traffic load, as well as an industrial load. In this case, the apparatus  1  is positioned in the direction of the industrial site  80 , and thus in the noise incidence direction. If, for example, the measurement system  2  records a noise level, for example from the very noisy vehicle  72  driving past, which is above a value which can be predetermined, the incidence direction of the sound is determined by means of the evaluation unit  4  on the basis of the acoustic analysis of the recorded sound, and the apparatus  1 , which is also referred to as an artificial head or artificial body structure, is automatically rotated or inclined with the acoustic, optical, immission, smell, temperature, moisture, humidity, air pressure, global radiation, wind direction, wind speed, structure-borne sound, radioactivity, electrosmog and/or seismological sensors automatically such that the apparatus  1  is pointing at the main incidence direction of the sound that dominates the overall noise pattern, that is to say from the vehicle  72  that is driving past. Possible alignments of the apparatus  1  are indicated by arrows in the FIGS. 3, 4 and  5 . In this case, the noise signal or acoustic signal A is recorded not only by the noise sensors  12  of the apparatus  1  but also by external measurement systems  82  which are arranged in the vicinity U, such as noise detectors  84 . Furthermore, the apparatus  1  can communicate with further measurement systems  82  which are arranged in the vicinity U, for example with a wide-angle camera  84  for a high-level recording system.  
         [0048]    In other words: the evaluation unit  1  is used to evaluate the recorded and/or received signals, on the basis of which the moving noise source is identified and is associated with the moving vehicle  72 . Depending on the requirement, the apparatus  1  may be rotated or moved into the incidence direction of the received sound, and thus into the direction of the vehicle  72 , if a maximum permissible limit value for the noise level is exceeded. Alternatively, the apparatus  1  may also be aligned as a function of other recorded signals, for example on the basis of the wind direction or to follow a vehicle  72  which is driving past.  
         [0049]    [0049]FIG. 6 shows a further field of application for the apparatus  1  for prioritization of various analysis results by assessment, association and linking. In this case, the apparatus  1  is arranged on a road  66 . A vehicle  72  producing severe sooty emissions approaches the apparatus  1  that is monitoring the area U. A low-flying aircraft  88  masks out the sound of the noise caused by the vehicle  72 . Owing to the trees  90  between the vehicle  72  and the apparatus  1 , the vehicle  72  cannot yet be recorded optically by the apparatus  1 . In order to record objects which are already loading the area U acoustically and by emissions, which, however, cannot yet be recorded optically by the apparatus  1 , the apparatus  1  is connected to further measurement systems  82 , for example a monitoring camera  90 . The monitoring camera  90  also has a thermal imaging camera. The vehicle  72  is thus recorded by means of the external monitoring camera  90  even before it reaches the optical detection area of the apparatus  1 . Depending on the nature and configuration of the monitoring camera  90 , the emission of hazardous substances caused by the vehicle  72  is detected on the basis of the smoke plume, and is transmitted to the evaluation unit  4  by means of the communication module  30 .  
         [0050]    In addition to the recording, determination and assessment of the vehicle  72 , the evaluation unit  4  detects the aircraft  88  on the basis of a pattern comparison of the noise level recorded from the aircraft  88  and the noise incidence direction, and identifies this as a brief noise source which is of minor importance for the area U to be monitored. In other words: the evaluation unit  4  uses the analysis module  22  to prioritize measurement signals which are recorded at the same time from different objects. In order to prevent hazardous substance emissions or sound emissions which are above the limit values, the vehicle  72  is therefore continuously monitored for compliance with the limit values by appropriate alignment of the apparatus  1  in the direction of the vehicle  72 . Depending on the nature and the embodiment, if the limit values are exceeded, the vehicle  72  can be prevented from driving further by appropriate measures and via a command center or by a monitoring station, or can receive an appropriate message in the form of communication, for example “hazardous substance emission too high—carry out ASU”.  
         [0051]    [0051]FIG. 7 shows a further field of application for the apparatus  1  for analysis of rolling movements of the vehicle bodywork. For this purpose, the apparatus  1  is arranged on a test route  92 . The vehicle  72  is tested, for example, for operation of the shock absorbers. For this purpose, the roadway  68  has a transverse joint  94 . On driving over the transverse joint  94 , a defined test signal T is applied to the vehicle  72 . The speed of the vehicle  72  is determined on the basis of a video analysis by means of the measurement system  2  and the evaluation unit  4  in the apparatus  1 . The oscillatory movement of the vehicle  72  which results from the stimulus produced by the transverse joint  94  that is driven over is compared on the basis of the video analysis with vehicle-specific oscillation reference patterns which are stored in the data memory  24 . The comparison result is supplied for information, control and maintenance purposes to the data memory  24 , to the open-loop and/or closed-loop control module  28  and to the communication module  30 .  
         [0052]    [0052]FIG. 8 shows a further field of application for the apparatus  1  for use as an “electrical gatekeeper”. In this case, the apparatus  1 A is used for automatic vehicle, personnel and/or goods identification. For this purpose, the apparatus  1 A is arranged adjacent to a barrier  96  to the industrial site  80 . The vehicle  72  drives over the weighbridge  70 , which is arranged in the roadway  68 , into the detection area of the apparatus  1 A. The apparatus  1 A carries out an image analysis, in order to record and determine the vehicle identification, and to analyze the vehicle type and vehicle color. The vehicle drive is recorded and analyzed by means of the measurement system  2  and by means of further noise sensors  12  and structure-borne sound sensors  58  on the basis of an airborne sound and structure-borne sound analysis. Furthermore, the technical conditions of the vehicle  72  is checked by means of the apparatus  1  on the basis of a video, thermal imaging, noise and immission analysis, for example relating to the temperature of the brakes, the condition of the tires, the condition of the shock absorbers, and the noise and exhaust gas emissions. Furthermore, the apparatus  1 A carries out a radioactivity, electrosmog and immission analysis in order to check the vehicle  72  for radioactivity, smuggled goods and/or illegal immigrants. In addition, the load state of the vehicle  72  is monitored and checked on the basis of an image analysis by means of the apparatus  1 , and the vehicle  72  is monitored and checked for one-sided loading and/or for overloading by means of the weighbridge  70 . Depending on the requirement and the analysis result, the barrier  96  is opened in order to drive onto the industrial site  80 . If not, information relating to the vehicle  72  is sent to the control center Z by means of the communication module  30  in the apparatus  1 A.  
         [0053]    In the case of automatic personnel and goods identification, the apparatus  1 B furthermore has a fingerprint module  97 , which is not shown in any more detail, for fingerprint analysis. Furthermore, the analysis module  22  has further functions added to it, for example face identification, iris identification or pass identification by means of image analysis, or voice identification by means of noise analysis. Alternatively or additionally, the pass identification process can also be carried out by means of an electrosmog or magnetic field analysis. Relevant measurement sensors and/or software modules are accordingly added to the measurement system  2  and to the evaluation unit  4  for the apparatus  1 B. In order to check a goods delivery a delivery certificate can be identified by means of the apparatus  1 B on the basis of an image analysis, an electrosmog analysis and/or a magnetic field analysis.  
         [0054]    [0054]FIG. 9 shows a further field of application for the apparatus  1  for use as a mobile fault analysis apparatus, which is also referred to as the “mobile fault spy”. In this case, the apparatus  1  is used for serviceability monitoring, for fault localization and for fault analysis of vehicles  72 . By way of example, the vehicle  72  is in a workshop or is being driven on a test track, and is connected via a data interface  98  to the quasi-humanoid multisensor measurement and reproduction system  1  which, for example, is arranged on the front passenger&#39;s seat. By way of example, the vehicle  72  has a leakage from the exhaust gas manifold  100 , whose exhaust gas is entering the interior of the vehicle via the ventilation system. Exhaust gas immission resulting from this by a vehicle occupant is determined by means of the apparatus  1  on the basis of the recording of exhaust gas concentrations in the area of typical nose and mouth positions of occupants, that is to say in the nose and mouth area of the quasi-humanoid multisensor measurement and reproduction system.  
         [0055]    In addition, one cylinder  102  of the vehicle  72  may be producing a conspicuous noise. The quasi-humanoid multisensor measurement and reproduction system  1  can identify the relevant cylinder  102 , and in particular can determine its camshaft position, on the basis of a noise analysis and on the basis of the operating data B which is transmitted via the data interface  98 . In a further application of the quasi-humanoid multisensor measurement and reproduction system  1 , the gas pedal and the brake in the vehicle  72  are driven by means of the apparatus  1  such that a predetermined engine load is maintained at a constant speed. Furthermore, specific engine loads can now be predetermined without brake control. The apparatus  1  is in this case used firstly to control the vehicle and secondly, by means of the apparatus  1 , to monitor, analyze and/or if necessary to link to one another currently recorded measurement signals M and operating signals B, as a function of the predetermined control.  
         [0056]    The foregoing disclosure has been set forth merely to illustrate the invention and is not intended to be limiting. Since modifications of the disclosed embodiments incorporating the spirit and substance of the invention may occur to persons skilled in the art, the invention should be construed to include everything within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereof.