Abstract: Method to create trust for blockchains without the need for Proof-of-Work and without the need for multiple contributing nodes. The method comprises one or more, backward chained elements in each block. These elements have a one-way property from the current block to the previous block. The invention can be implemented in Hardware, Software or in a combination of both. Embodiments of the back-step blockchain comprise existing blockchain applications and new blockchain application where speed or physical size or network independency are desired properties. One, but not the only embodiment is the implementation of the back-step blockchain into smartphones.

Abstract: A method for ascertaining an initial pose of a vehicle using a control device. Measured data ascertained by a GNSS sensor system and/or an odometry sensor system are received and evaluated to ascertain an approximate pose of the vehicle with a margin of uncertainty. At least one trajectory of road users is extracted from a trajectory map for the ascertained margin of uncertainty. Test points are positioned along the extracted trajectory. An optimization algorithm is performed for each test point along the trajectory. The optimization algorithm ascertains poses having corresponding cost functions. A pose having the greatest cost function is determined as the initial pose of the vehicle from the poses ascertained by the optimization algorithm. A control device, a computer program, and a machine-readable storage medium are also provided.

Abstract: A method for ascertaining a starting position of a vehicle for a localization of the vehicle using a control unit. In the method, measurement data are received from an odometry sensor system and/or a GNSS sensor system of the vehicle, a first position and an uncertainty range of the first position are determined based on the measurement data received, at least one map section of a feature map containing a plurality of stored features is received, the map section having a position and extent which is superimposed on the first position and the uncertainty range, measurement data are received from a LiDAR sensor system, a radar sensor system and/or a camera sensor system and static features are extracted from the measurement data received, a first starting position of the vehicle is ascertained by comparing the static features extracted from measurement data with features stored in the map section.

Abstract: Method to create trust for blockchains without the need for Proof-of-Work and without the need for multiple contributing nodes. The method comprises one or more, backward chained elements in each block. These elements have a one-way property from the current block to the previous block. The invention can be implemented in Hardware, Software or in a combination of both. Embodiments of the back-step blockchain comprise existing blockchain applications and new blockchain application where speed or physical size or network independency are desired properties. One, but not the only embodiment is the implementation of the back-step blockchain into smartphones.

Abstract: A method for operating an automated vehicle. A request for the take-over of at least one driving task presently carried out by the automated vehicle is output to a driver of the automated vehicle. Prior to a transfer of the driving task to the driver following the request, at least one measure is carried out, with which at least one function of the automated vehicle, which represents a potential source of distraction for the driver during the transfer of the driving task, is deactivated or reduced.