Patent Application
20110153150
The present invention generally relates to an electronic gauge, diagnostic, and programming module and docking device for use in a motor vehicle, and more particularly to an electronic diagnostic docking device which can be used in conjunction with a vehicle's computer and user configured display system for acquisition of information regarding vehicles and vehicle performance so that updated information and performance standards can be set to a vehicle's computer.
Modern vehicles are generally equipped with numerous sensors, such as, for example, oil pressure, coolant temperature, transmission temperature, engine temperature, steering position, air/fuel ratio, etc. Typically, the sensors are connected to an on-board computer control module that continually monitors the sensors and regulates the vehicles functions accordingly. Generally the information generated by the sensor is continually passed along the vehicle data link as part of the vehicle diagnostic system. The vehicle diagnostic system cooperates with the factory installed gauge cluster to provide the vehicle operator with information regarding various components of the vehicle. The vehicle diagnostic system typically includes one or more separate computer control modules. Examples of such computer control modules (also known as just “modules”) are: a power train control module (PCM), an engine control module (ECM), a transmission control module (TCM), an anti-lock brake system (ABS) control module, and an air bag control module. Typically the computer control modules are connected together by a data link, forming the vehicle diagnostic system. The data link typically has a connection point, or data link connector (DLC) that is normally located under the dash of the vehicle. The vehicle diagnostic system is generally used to provide relevant information to repair technicians. The DLC provides a place to connect off-board vehicle gauges and diagnostic devices, such as scan tools and code readers, for communication with the vehicle diagnostic system.
In addition to downloading the information regarding the operation or performance of various vehicle components, the data link connectors can also be used to upload information to the various vehicle control modules. The operating parameters and/or software of the various vehicle control modules can be changed or updated. This operation is commonly referred to as “flashing” the control module. The control modules can be flashed to upgrade the performance of the vehicle, to reduce powertrain emissions, fix drivability issues, or to compensate for wear of certain components, such as engine components.
“Off-board devices,” such as scan tools and code readers are known in the art. Scan tool and code reader testing devices interface with vehicle diagnostic systems to access, display, and/or print vehicle diagnostic information. On-Board Diagnostics Version II (OBD II) Scan Tools are one commonly known type of scan tool and are governed by a number of standards, e.g., SAE J1978 Rev. 1998-02, SAE J1979 Rev. 1997-09, ISO9141/KWP2000, CAN/ISO15765, SAE J1850 PWM, SAE J1850 VPW or the like.
A “Manufacturer-Specific Scan Tool” is a scan tool that accesses and displays proprietary manufacturer-specific data (and possibly also additionally accesses and displays OBD II data). Examples of proprietary manufacturer-specific data include Device Controls, On-Demand Tests, Actuator Tests, Sensor Tests, Interrogator, and Read Temporary Codes. In general, air bag data, ABS data, cruise control data, and climate control data are also considered to be proprietary manufacturer-specific data and are typically included only in Manufacturer-Specific Scan Tools.
Technicians at automobile dealerships and repair shops now days need the ability to reprogram the software contained in the vehicle's onboard computer. These reprogramming requirements normally reflect changes recommended by the automobile manufacturer. Software changes can also be utilized to improve a vehicle's performance. Reprogramming was initially adopted by the aftermarket in 2002 when the Society of Automotive Engineers SAE standard J2534 was published. In 2004 this standard was modified to J2534-1 thus technicians and customers had to purchase new hardware to use this new standard.
However, the scan tools are often large, cumbersome wheeled devices that set outside of the vehicle with cables extending into the vehicle. Portable scan tool devices are also known; these devices are generally not constructed for permanent installation within a vehicle; nor are they generally equipped for connection to, and collection of data from, peripheral devices. These scan tools are designed for use by automobile technicians.
Therefore, there exists a need for an electronic diagnostic docking device which can be used in conjunction with a vehicle's computer to test and program vehicles. This device can be physically and electronically or wirelessly connected to a similar device which contains updated information regarding vehicles and vehicle performance so that updated information and performance standards can be set to a vehicle's computer. The device can collect information from multiple busses and senders within a vehicle that can communicate with a display device, such as a gauge, and display the information. There also exists a need for an electronic device which can be readily used by a car owner or automobile enthusiast.
Briefly, the present invention is directed toward a data acquisition, data display, vehicle computer interface and programming tool in the form of a module. The module of the present invention can be set into a dock, which is connected to the vehicle's control modules. The vehicle can be reprogrammed to accept vehicle manufacture's updates and/or performance updates by the use of buttons and an extended user interface. The dock can also be used to perform enhanced diagnostics of the vehicle and/or engine. It can also be employed to extend configurations of the operating parameters of the vehicle. Once the reprogramming is finished, the module is removed from the dock and is be placed into/onto the vehicle's dashboard or other location readily viewable by the vehicle operator to report one or more of the vehicle's operating parameters. The present invention is readily connectable to a vehicle's data link for bi-directional communication with the various control modules on the vehicle.
The module is also configured so that the user can design his/her own gauge display “skins” in the form of graphics, graphs, fonts, needles, buttons, program generated objects and backgrounds that can be stored and recalled for display on the module. Input signals from the various control modules and sensors on the vehicle can be assigned to a specific gauge skin or to a specific display contained within a gauge skin.
The module of the present invention can also be configured for automatic skin changes in response to ambient light conditions and may additionally change background color, font size and shape, and/or sound alarms based on the signal values received from the vehicle's data link.
The module of the present invention can also include a wireless connection, such as Cellular, GSM, Bluetooth, WiFi or the like, which can be utilized for connection to various control modules, docking devices, sensors or peripheral devices on the vehicle.
Accordingly, it is an objective of the instant invention to provide a vehicle diagnostic/programming module and gauge which can be readily installed in a vehicle.
It is a further objective of the instant invention to provide a vehicle diagnostic/programming display module which provides bi-directional communication between the module and the on-board control modules, sensors and other vehicle peripherals.
It is yet another objective of the instant invention to provide a vehicle diagnostic/programming display module which can accept input from a technician or vehicle operator while specific vehicle control modules are being reprogrammed or flashed.
It is a still further objective of the instant invention to provide a vehicle diagnostic/programming display module which includes a dock that includes inputs for programming, configuring the vehicle diagnostic/programming display module or inputting data into the control modules of a vehicle.
Other objects and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with any accompanying drawings wherein are set forth, by way of illustration and example, certain embodiments of this invention. Any drawings contained herein constitute a part of this specification and include exemplary embodiments of the present invention and illustrate various objects and features thereof.
While the present invention is susceptible of embodiment in various forms, there is shown in the drawings and will hereinafter be described a presently preferred, albeit not limiting, embodiment with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the present invention and is not intended to limit the invention to the specific embodiments illustrated.
Referring now to
The diagnostic/programming display module 12 performs multiple functions. Primarily, it communicates with the on-board control modules of a vehicle to supply information from the various components of the vehicle, such as the engine, transmission, braking system, etc. to the operator of the vehicle. It can also supply the aforementioned information plus diagnostic information to a technician who will be repairing the vehicle. In today's vehicles, whenever there is an abnormal operating condition, the on-board control modules generate a code which indicates the abnormal condition. If the abnormal condition requires the attention of a service technician, the vehicle's computer is programmed to light a “check engine” light. This indicates to the vehicle operator that the vehicle should be brought in for service. The service technicians have the proper tools to read and interpret the vehicle codes. These tools are commonly called scan tools.
The diagnostic/programming display module 12 can also display various operating parameters of the vehicle. For example, engine parameters such as water temperature and oil pressure can be displayed on module 12. In addition, other vehicle operating parameters such as transmission temperature and brake fluid pressure can be displayed. A control button 26 on the diagnostic/programming display module is utilized to select the various functions which the module can perform including display of vehicle operating parameters on the screen 28 of the display module 12. The display module also includes an LED 27 light which can be programmed to serve as a warning light or perform other functions.
The display module 12 can be secured into a dock 14 whenever the display module is utilized for diagnostic and/or programming functions. When the present invention is utilized in this mode, the display module 12 is inserted into dock 14 and the dock is connected to the data link of a vehicle via cable 24. The cable 24 can be of a length sufficient so a service technician does not have to sit in or enter a vehicle to service the vehicle. In many instances it is inconvenient and undesirable for a service technician to have to enter the passenger compartment of a vehicle to perform the required service on the vehicle. In certain instances the service technician must take extra precautions to keep the passenger compartment of the vehicle clean while he/she is working under and around very dirty portions of the vehicle. By having a data link cable 24 of a sufficient length the technician can observe the display module 12 while working on almost any part of the vehicle.
As illustrated in
Connector 34,
The control module updates or modifications can also be wirelessly transmitted to the dock 14. The dock can be equipped with a cellular telephone, GSM, Bluetooth® or WiFi connection, such as a 802.11. Also, the display module 12 can be equipped with a cellular telephone, GSM, Bluetooth® or WiFi connection which would enable the communications and reprogramming and/or update to be wirelessly transmitted directly to the display module 12 without the need for the dock 14. An application similar to the ones available on phones such as iPhones®, cellular smart phones, iPads®, tablet PCs, tablet media players, or other mobile computing platforms could also be utilized on the display module 12 to wirelessly receive vehicle control module updates or modifications. iPhones®, smart phones, iPads®, tablet PCs or other mobile communicating devices could be used in place of the display module 12. The information would be transmitted wirelessly between these devices and the dock. The owner of the vehicle or the technician could subscribe to a service so that monthly, quarterly or whenever updates are available, these updates would automatically be wirelessly transmitted to the display module 12.
After the vehicle control modules have been updated or “flashed”, the display module 12 of the present invention is removed from dock 14 and placed into or onto the dashboard of the vehicle or in an area viewable by the driver. A data link connector is connected to one of the various connectors 32, 42, 44 or 46 on the rear of the display module 12. A data link cable can also be connected directly to connectors 44 or 46. This would eliminate the need to connect the module 12 to the dock 14. The data link provides information from the vehicle's control modules which can be displayed on the screen 28 of the display module 12. The control button 26 can be used to control the display. For example, control button 26 can be used to toggle between various engine or vehicle parameters. It can also be used to format the presentation of the data on the screen 28, or to turn on/off recording of the data. The format of the presentation of the data is also known as the “skin”.
The display module 12 preferably is available in one standard size. Adaptor rings 48 and 50,
All patents and publications mentioned in this specification are indicative of the levels of those skilled in the art to which the invention pertains. All patents and publications are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.
It is to be understood that while a certain form of the invention is illustrated, it is not to be limited to the specific form or arrangement herein described and shown. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various changes may be made without departing from the scope of the invention and the invention is not to be considered limited to what is shown and described in the specification and any drawings/figures included herein.
One skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention is well adapted to carry out the objectives and obtain the ends and advantages mentioned, as well as those inherent therein. The embodiments, methods, procedures and techniques described herein are presently representative of the preferred embodiments, are intended to be exemplary and are not intended as limitations on the scope. Changes therein and other uses will occur to those skilled in the art which are encompassed within the spirit of the invention and are defined by the scope of the appended claims. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention which are obvious to those skilled in the art are intended to be within the scope of the following claims.
This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/703,943, filed Feb. 11, 2010 and entitled “MODULAR VEHICULAR DIAGNOSTIC TOOL”, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/341,850, filed Dec. 22, 2008 and entitled, “USER CONFIGURED DISPLAY SYSTEM FOR MOTOR VEHICLE”, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/046,072, filed Mar. 11, 2008 and entitled, “DATA ACQUISITION AND DISPLAY SYSTEM FOR MOTOR VEHICLES”, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/836,672, filed Aug. 9, 2007 and entitled, “DATA ACQUISITION AND DISPLAY SYSTEM FOR MOTOR VEHICLE”, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,786,851, the contents of these applications are hereby incorporated in their entirety.
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 11836672 | Aug 2007 | US |
| Child | 12046072 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 12703943 | Feb 2010 | US |
| Child | 12973050 | US | |
| Parent | 12341850 | Dec 2008 | US |
| Child | 12703943 | US | |
| Parent | 12046072 | Mar 2008 | US |
| Child | 12341850 | US |
