JPH02502944A - Interchangeable diagnostic equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] This bulletin contains application data before electronic filing, so abstract data is not recorded.

Description

[Detailed description of the invention] Interchangeable diagnostic equipment Technical field TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention generally relates to a vehicle diagnostic device, and more particularly, to a portable communication control station, and at least one removable data access cartridge. Related to diagnostic equipment.

With the advent of motor vehicles with manufacturer-equipped computer-controlled equipment, errors can occur. Is operation repair more substantial than in the past? ! It's getting complicated. vehicle computer That Hill m I! In order to perform the function properly, various parts of the vehicle are usually A variety of sensors are used to monitor various operating parameters. Perform the matching. In some of these vehicle computers, the 20i1 or more sensors for 1ilIII and by vehicle computer. It is used to assist in vehicle diagnosis.

Many models of vehicles have realistic Direct access to various display devices, engine analyzers, etc., to perform a more complete diagnosis than that provided by the on-board vehicle computer. It is equipped with a Hill that can be easily performed.

For example, many types of General Motors vehicles include passenger-only cars. Assembly line work diagnosis link (Assembly 1.ine Dia Gnostic Link: A L D L) terminals are installed. child The ALDL terminal of the vehicle computer input/output (10) board or power line: By connecting to the ptsm module (EMC), the ALDL terminal is When receiving the data enable signal, the monitored parameter data is sent to the ALDL terminal. Transmit to.

The purpose of extracting data that can be accessed by these on-board vehicle computers is Various devices have been developed over the years. In this connection, early equipment Some of them are owned by Microprocess skin system, which is the right holder of this invention. "Mini-Scanner" released by g+s, Inc. er) J and “Multi-Scanner (Multi-Scanner) J model It was a hand belt display device like this. These MPSIHII slide or the value or state of an individual parameter in response to manual actuation of a rotary switch. is designed to display. An example of such a device is [Diagnostic Data Recorder (Diagnostic Data Reco)] U.S. Pat. No. 4,6 by Neely and Russ, entitled It is shown in Figure 2 of No. 02.127. This patent is referred to here as use

The diagnostic data recorder (rDDRJ) patent mentioned above also includes a method for obtaining vehicle data. Another device for this is also described. To be more specific, DDR is raw and transfers recorded vehicle data to a remote data processing computer via telephone line. It is designed to provide a portable communication vjIli1 station that can be transmitted. Therefore , for example, DDR records data obtained from on-road tests and later Remote values can be sent to a computer that can diagnose difficult problems.

More recently, it has become possible to plug directly into the bus structure of a general-purpose test computer. enables high-speed signal transmission between the on-board vehicle computer and the test computer. A communications adapter circuit board was developed. This communication adapter circuit is Filed on September 10, 1985, with the same right holder, ``Vehicle Computer Diagnosis In Surface @fl　(Vehicle Computer　Diagnost ic Interface＾pparatLIs) J. It is described in patent application Ser. No. 774°348. This patent application is also here, with references Used as an offering.

Although each of these products has been effective and successful, the special design of these products , necessarily related to a particular vehicle manufacturer. Onboard computer Data transmission speeds and The protocols of one vehicle manufacturer are the same as those of another vehicle manufacturer. These differences also occur between vehicles even from the same vehicle manufacturer. found in different years of models and in different types of models. follow modify existing equipment or create new equipment to suit specific applications. Separate devices were released for each vehicle manufacturer's vehicles.

Of course, these developments are important to note when working with M-built vehicles from different manufacturers. or create problems for repair and maintenance contractors attempting to perform their work.

This is because we provide equipment suitable for the structure and model of each vehicle. This is because attempting to do so would require the purchase of several types of equipment. . This situation also challenges manufacturers of diagnostic equipment to ensure that their products for vehicle diagnostics are completely Extra redesign, inventory supplies, and related expenses to install a modern manufacturing line request that you bear the cost.

Disclosure of invention Accordingly, the present invention is suitable for a variety of different vehicle models and constructions. To provide a universal diagnostic device that can be easily used without the need for design or redesign. Make it the main purpose.

More specifically, it is an object of the present invention to collect data from different vehicle models and structures. Operates with multiple replaceable cartridges that allow data access. To provide a universal communications control station designed to

Another object of the invention is to update the universal communication station for many years in the future. Data access cartridges that can minimize or eliminate the need for The objective is to provide a design for the edge.

Yet another object of the present invention is to assist in the design of future cartridges. Universal communication control station and data access cartridge combination with flexibility The goal is to realize the device.

Yet another object of the present invention is to use a data access cartridge to store data. The stored data is stored after the cartridge is removed from the control station. The object is to be able to hold the image for a predetermined period of time.

Yet another object of the invention is to provide a data access cartridge for operation. To provide a replaceable diagnostic device that requires the presence of

Yet another object of the present invention is to not only communicate with the vehicle, but also to Interchangeable hand belt diagnostics that can also communicate with peripheral devices such as computers and printers The purpose is to provide equipment.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide universal communications control through the use of software. The universal communication system that allows adjustment of the contrast in the display device for the station mB.

In order to achieve the above objectives, the replaceable diagnostic device provided by the present invention is generally , a universal communication control station, and this control station is connected to multiple disparate on-board vehicle computers. at least one removable data access card for processing data of including the cartridge. This 11110 station has a portable housing and an operator Keypad and onboard vehicle computer for commanding diagnostic test procedures. matrix display for selectively displaying data received from a removable cover containing a microcomputer circuit for performing the procedure; The cartridge is a housing adapted to be connected to the housing of the IIJiI station. the onboard vehicle computer to transmit the data stream, and A computer that at least partially accesses the data to receive the data. a read-only memory for storing computer programs.

In one form of the invention, the vjIII1 station communicates with the onboard vehicle computer. A first terminal for communicating with the removable cartridge, and a second terminal for communicating with the removable cartridge. A buffer that directly transmits the signal received from the vehicle computer to the first terminal to the second terminal. This is done by first bypassing the I+1lIII station circuitry, including the This direct transmission to the cartridge, which occurs at the cartridge interface circuit, The fact that the road structure is designed to meet the requirements of the particular vehicle being tested. realized by In other words, the cartridge is unique to the specific vehicle being tested. The control station has a mechanism for operating the control station to process the data received from the control station.

i.e., any specialized information required to access data used by a particular vehicle manufacturer. All circuits and 1iIJIIll programs are contained in a removable cartridge. How can data be accessed from any particular vehicle model or structure? In this system, there is no need to worry about access.

The removable cartridge also accommodates multiple data streams such as the vA heavy vehicle computer. Other open circuits are also provided, such as random access memory to store . In one form of the invention, the random access memory is a capacitor or the like. This power storage device is equipped with a power I loading number of After being removed, it is stored in random access memory for at least several v1 minutes. The stored data will be retained.

Another feature of the invention is that a replaceable cartridge is required for the control station to operate. The control station is designed such that one of the nodes must be connected to the control station. Is Rukoto. Specifically, in one form of the invention, the first terminal of the voice station is The higher power is directly supplied to the second terminal to provide power to the circuit components in the control station. Therefore, for open circuits contained within the , in order to supply the necessary power to operate the 111W station, a cartridge is required. is coupled to the @station to supply power directly to the cartridge, and the power is sent to the control station. It is necessary to make sure that it is returned to you.

@The department also preferably includes a backlight type liquid crystal display device I (LCD), Equipped with a contrast circuit necessary to adjust the viewing angle of this LCD display device. I can do it. In one form of the invention, the contrast draw path is the key key of the IIJID station. The software allows adjustment of the viewing angle by manual operation of selected keys on the pad. is designed to operate under the control of

Other advantages and features of the invention will be understood with reference to the accompanying drawings. This will become clearer below through a detailed description of the embodiments.

Brief description of the drawing FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the replaceable diagnostic device β of the present invention.

Figure 2 shows the universal communication 1lII1 station connected to the removable cartridge in Figure 1. FIG.

Figures 3a to 3C show the structure of the circuit included in the 21111 station in Figure 1. It is a drawing.

From Figure 4a to Figure 4C, General Motors (General HOtO) FIG. 2 is a structural diagram of a cartridge used for diagnosing vehicles manufactured by R.S.

Figures 5a and 5b are vehicles manufactured by Chrysler. FIG. 2 is a structural diagram of a circuit included in a cartridge used for diagnosis.

Figures 6a and 6b are used to diagnose vehicles manufactured by Ford. FIG. 2 is a structural diagram of a circuit included in a cartridge that is used.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a replaceable diagnostic device 10 of the present invention. diagnostic equipment The station typically includes a universal communication control station 12 and a removable cartridge 14. nothing. The reason why the control m station 12 is called universal is because it is of a particular manufacturer or model. Is it used exclusively for diagnosing vehicles of any year or model type? It is et al. In other words, the 113111 station 12 has multiple replaceable cartridges 1 4, each cartridge is designed to be used with diagnostic equipment. , so that data from a given onboard vehicle computer can be accessed. Ru.

That is, for example, as shown in Figures 4 to 6, General Motors Vehicles manufactured by Freisler (General Motors), Freisler (Ch rySler) and vehicles manufactured by Ford. Different cartridges are available for both.

Figure 1 also shows how to facilitate communication between the FF10 and the vehicle being tested. A closing cable arrangement 16 is shown. Cable device itt16 also connects device i 10 is also for receiving electric power from the vehicle. To explain in detail, cable equipment M1 6 is inserted into the cigarette lighter receptacle of the vehicle and receives power (direct v&1). 2 volts) to the device 10. cable device 16 In addition, the power line from the plug 18 is connected to the data and control line from the ALDL plug 22. It includes a main connector 20 for mating with the line. Cable system 16 also includes specific One or more adapters 24 designed for Dell years and models Provided. In other words, the adapter 24 is compatible with a particular vehicle model or configuration. For non-specialized ALDL plugs 22, common or standard make it possible to use the design.

The main connector 20 has a 15-bin terminal 26, which is a portable terminal for the control station 12. to be mated to a corresponding 15-pin terminal mounted on a flexible housing 28. The sea urchin is turning. As shown in FIG. 2, the 15-bin terminal 30 of the control station 12 protrudes from the upper side or end of the control station. However, in proper application, It should be appreciated that terminal 30 may also be attached to cartridge 14. . In one form of the invention, the main connector 20 includes a pair of butterflies on each side of the terminals 26. It is detachably attached to the mm station 12 with screws. Plug 18 is used to power the device. A suitable fuse (e.g. 2 amps) is provided to protect against power surges. You should also pay attention to the scales.

As shown in FIG. 2, the cartridge 14 is connected to a control station. coupled to the rear of the control station 12 so as to extend along the same plane as the rear surface 32 of the It will be done.

Preferably, the cartridge 14 is configured such that the cartridge 14 engages the 1111111 station. When pressed, the entire body inside the outer shape of the housing 28 of v1111jii12 be included in the That is, for example, the housing 34 of the cartridge 14 The sides and ends of the housing 28 of the control station 12 are essentially the same as the sides and ends of the housing 28 of the control station 12. They have the same boundaries. In appropriate applications this relationship may be modified, but The housing 28 of the control station 12 has an approximately rLJ-shaped appearance in side view; When the cartridge is engaged with the 1111111 station, the atio is box-shaped. vt should be recognized as having the appearance of In other words, the cartridge 14 is The rectangular cavity formed by the structure of the portable housing 28 of the control station is Fulfill.

Cartridge 14 has two circuit boards extending generally parallel to each other. It should also be noted that it has sufficient substantial depth to include. car The circuitry described below can all be contained on a single circuit board. However, if the width of the cartridge housing 34 is made considerably large, the cartridge without affecting the appearance or design of the housing of the station or 1IJtl1 station. It is possible to make substantial modifications to the circuitry of the cartridge.

As shown in FIG. 2, the cartridge 14 is attached to the housing 2 of the control station 12. extending along a substantial length of 8. Housing 34 of cartridge 14 also includes: It is formed to have a roughly rectangular cavity 36 along its interior facing side. ing. Cavity 36 extends over cover plate 38 in one embodiment of the invention. formed by providing elongated side walls. The cover plate 38 has a plurality of A circuit attached to the housing 34 by screws and enclosed within the housing. Protect the board. As shown in FIG. extends beyond the cover plate 38 so that the cartridge 14 is electrically connected to the control station 12. so that it can be connected to

The housing 34 of the cartridge 14 also includes a cavity 36 in the cartridge. A pair of retention latches 42 are provided located at the lower end. The retaining latch 42 , has two nearly vertical ridges, and these ridges are located at the tilJIII station 12. engages within a pair of complementary shaped groups 44 formed in housing 28 . One of these ridges connects the cartridge to the IIJII1 station. Extend parallel to the direction in which the cartridge must slide.

Group 44 is an 11J 8-station housing that extends around the rear circumference of the control station. It is formed in a protrusion 46 that is retracted inward from the tag 28. Retention latch 42, glue The combination of tap 44, retraction projection 46, and cartridge cavity 36 all cooperate. When the cartridge slides into and engages the control IJili, the cartridge 14 to the control station 12 automatically. Edge connector 40 is connected to the car. The retaining latch is tightly engaged with the control station 12 at the upper end of the cartridge 14. It should also be noted that it does not necessarily have to be near the top end of cartridge 14. . To remove cartridge 14 from control station 12, the operator preferably Place your thumb on the sloping surface 47 of the control housing 28 and use your other finger to Slide the torridge away from the ilJ 111 station.

FIG. 1 also shows that the control station 12 is equipped with a keypad 48 having 16 keys. is shown. In detail, the keypad 48 has a set of 10i1 numeric keys and , 4 arrow keys, function key (rFUNcJ), and enter key (rENTERJ). The keypad 48 is manually operated by the operator. the operator can thereby command the desired diagnostic test procedure. . The function keys control the various modes programmed into the device 10. or used to make selections between jobs. of these functions Some may adjust the contrast of the display w50 or directly change the data. How to operate the device t10, such as sending it to the column communication jack 52. Concerning Shimeruka. Others of these functions use raw data from the vehicle. display of the fault code stored in the computer, the vehicle equipped with the display Enabling predetermined diagnostic modes on both computers, controlling data update rates, etc. relates to the manner in which the device communicates with the onboard vehicle computer. keypad 48 The enter key is used by the operator to make selections and confirm responses. or proceed with the next step in the diagnostic test procedure for the device. command to do so. The up and down arrow keys are typically used on display 250. Used to scroll through lines, the left and right arrow keys are , typically used to move back and forth between the line selections that the display provides to the operator. .

Display device! 50 is preferably a backlit 4 line x 20 character liquid crystal display device. The position is f (LCD). One example of such a display device is the 0PTRES Model D This is a display device of MC20434E. This type of display device requires the operator to It can display several vehicle data parameters at once and also allows the operator to various menus to minimize or eliminate the need to refer to can also be displayed. Also, as can be seen from the explanation below, vJai 1 station 1 2, the operator selects the contrast adjustment function and presses the button upward or downward. Activation of the direction arrow keys as desired changes the viewing angle of the LCD display 150. It is designed so that the contrast can be adjusted.

As shown in FIG. 2, the 1lIIi1 station 12 also includes a pushbutton 54. The function of this button is the selected cart list for 1iIII1 station. It changes depending on the edge.

For example, for General Motors vehicles When a cartridge is selected, pushbutton 54 activates the air management Vi position on the vehicle. IIItIl operation. In other words, each time the operator presses this pushbutton, Then, air is immediately routed into the exhaust manifold in front of the catalytic converter. So In this case, releasing the push button will return the airflow to normal operation.

From FIG. 3a to FIG. 3C, the control station 12 is based on a microcomputer. A structural diagram of a circuit 56 is shown and shown. Circuit 56 connects the vehicle controller in which device 10 is installed. A first terminal 58 for communicating with a computer, and! 111111812 as one A second terminal 60 for communicating with the cartridge 14 is included. First end? -58 typically consists of a 15-pin terminal 30 protruding from the housing 28 of the control station 12. The second terminal 60 is usually a multi-pin terminal that accommodates the edge connector 40 of the cartridge 14. consists of an edge connector.

One advantage of the present invention is that the device 10 allows one cartridge 14 to be properly Designed to prevent operation of the control station 12 when not engaged with the m1 station 12. This is what is being done. In this regard, the power received by the first terminal 58 (pin DA ii DC 2 volts between 6 and UDA II) is initially contained within 111111 station 12. to the second terminal 6o via the bus structure 62 without providing any power to the Transmitted directly. In this connection, the second terminal 60 is marked DA6 and DAII. The power received by the first terminal 58 is first transmitted to the cartridge 14. It is shown that. It is marked “R+12V diode at the bottom of the second terminal” The pin allows the cartridge 14 to retransmit this power to the control station and turn it into a switching power supply. This shows that the circuit 62 is to be adjusted.

The switching power supply circuit 62 converts the 12 volts of DC power received from the vehicle into Used to generate +5 volt supply power. Switching power supply circuit 6 The feature of 2 is in the regulator 64, and the frequency of the pulse output generated by this regulator is Determine the voltage generated at the output of the switching power supply circuit. Choke coil 66 and and capacitor 68 store energy during the off period of the pulse output from regulator 64. In addition, a substantially constant voltage level of 5 volts is applied to the output of switching power supply circuit 62. It is used within the switching power supply circuit 62 to generate the power. switch The power supply circuit 62 also includes a low voltage interrupt circuit 70, which receives power from the vehicle. When the voltage drops below a predetermined threshold level, ! included within 10 Prevent circuit operation. The 5 volt output from power supply circuit 62 is connected to cartridge 1. to a second terminal 60 for transmitting the available power level of the circuitry contained within 4. It is connected.

The circuit 56 is characterized by Hitachi's microcomputer chip 72. The computer chip acts as a central tsm*vtz for the device 10.

However, other single-chip or multi-chip CPUs or computer circuits are also suitable. It should be recognized that it can be used in applications. Figure 3b shows the micro A computer chip 72 is connected to the keypad 48 and presses any individual key. assigns a high level input signal (e.g. 5 volts) to a given pair of input bins P60-P67. This indicates that the current (root) is applied. keypad 48 and pull Also, between the up resistor (SiF2) and each pin P64-P67 When the inverter is connected and one key is pressed, the keyboard cutoff line rK I　RQJ is set to a level state. A similar connection is made at pin P57 It is also used for a pushbutton 54 connected to.

FIG. 3a shows that circuit 56 further includes a programmable logic array circuit 74. It is shown that. Programmable logic array circuit 74 is connected to bus structure 62. functions as an address decoder for the microcomputer chip 72. . Programmable logic array circuit 74 is connected to the bus from the microcomputer chip. In response to an address command provided via address lines A9-A15 of the network, Programmably connected to generate appropriate chip select signals from circuit 74 contains multiple logic gates. Thus, for example, programmable logic array circuits Line 74 has a chip select output port labeled [)ISPJ; The display is on display! 150 and the data from the microcomputer chip 72. or information signals. Directly as shown in Figure 3b. A current-to-ac inverter circuit 76 is connected to the display W50 and backs up the LCD display. Provides the 5o-ioo ports of power needed to run the client.

In FIG. 3C, circuit 56 is a dual universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter. a! asynchronous receiver transmitter :1'DLIARTJ') chip 78, which is also connected to the bus structure 62. Shown as shown.

DUART chip 78 is accessed by microcomputer chip 72. Contains two UART circuits that can be One LIART in DUART chip 78 The circuit has serial communication with an external device such as a test computer or printer. used for This serial communication is carried out via a modular telephone jack 52. be called. The conversion circuit 80 (for example, 2320PE of HaX +-) is a DUART T from DtJART is interposed between chip 78 and telephone jack 52. Use TL's O-5 volt level signal to R5232 to output +/-12 volts. Convert to signal level.

Communication between the microcomputer 72 and the external IAE is carried out through rREcIJ and r The signal line 2UART marked XMITIJ is currently used in the circuit. However, this creates the possibility of adding a serial communication channel to circuit 56. This provides substantial flexibility for future applications. For example, for the second UART The communication line (rREc2J and U rXMI T2J marked tail) is , via a bus structure 62 to a second terminal 60, the second communication channel being be shared with future cartridges that require additional serial communication channels such as so that

As can be seen from the above, the DUART chip 78 converts serial information into parallel information. , via the data line Do-D7 forming part of the bus structure 62, the microcomputer data is transmitted to or received from the chip 72.

The DLIART chip 78 further includes a timer circuit, which is connected to the DUA Commands from the microcomputer chip written to the internal registers of the RT chip In response to the signal, a pulse signal is generated on a pin labeled rOP3J. This pa The Luz signal is an LCD display! Contrast circuit for adjusting viewing angle of 50 82.

Contrast circuit 82 generates a voltage on output line 84 that is proportional to the frequency of the pulse signal. It operates as a frequency-to-voltage converter, generating a level. Pulse on input line 86 The signal causes the output state of comparator 88 and FET transistor 90 to change. used for Input line 86 is connected to a 5 volt N source through pull-up resistor 92. The pull-up resistor 92 is connected so that the pulse is transmitted on the input line 86. Provides a fixed high voltage level when Resistors 94 and 96 are a resistor divider network. This network produces a 2.5 volt reference level for comparator 88. do. When a pulse is transmitted on input line 86, comparator 88 and FET The output state of 90 charges capacitor 100. Next, at the trailing edge of the pulse, Comparator 88 and FET 90 switch states, thereby causing capacitor 88 and FET 90 to switch states. 100 charges a capacitor 104 by discharging through a diode 102. Ru. The charge on capacitor 104 establishes a voltage level on capacitor 106, which The voltage level is output through the voltage follower circuit 1o8! ! 84. Therefore , input) Im! The frequency of the pulse signal on 86 is transmitted onto capacitor 100. By transferring or leaking the accumulated charge to capacitor 104, capacitor 10 The charge on 4 is υ111! It should be recognized that

From Figures 4a to 4C, General Motors Cartridge circuit 1 for a cartridge used in vehicle diagnosis 10 structural diagrams are shown. This particular cartridge circuit 110 is ・General Motors from 1980 to 1988 It can be applied to those of the model.

Cartridge circuit 110 provides communication between the cartridge and successor department 12, if possible. Edge connector 40 shown in FIG. 4a, including a fastening edge connector 4o 4b and constitute one and the same edge connector.

Cartridge circuit 110 further includes an interface generally designated by reference numeral 112. includes an interface circuit that connects the onboard vehicle computer to the transmits a stream of data and receives this data, which is later processed by a microcomputer chip. 72. This can be seen by comparing Figure 4a with Figures 5a and 6a. In other words, each interface circuit within each cartridge is is unique to the particular vehicle to which it may be applied. Therefore, for example, The face circuit 112 is a diagnostic enablement line that can be controlled in several different ways. 114 included. To be more specific, the commands generated from the microcomputer chip 72 The signals are routed through the cartridge bus structure 118 to a universal interface adapter circuit. The signal on the diagnostic enable line 114 is changed depending on the diagnostic procedure desired by the author. turn into something. Specifically, the interface circuit 112 is connected to an on-board vehicle computer. pin PB of VIA circuit 116 to command the circuit to enter a special mode of operation. 4 with a "special mode" diagnostic enablement line connected to 4. What is the operation of special mode? , if various equipment is inspected at the end of the assembly line before the vehicle is transported, Some engine features work differently than others. Special mode diagnosis The line is connected to an inverter 120 that changes the amplitude of the voltage on the line break enable line 114. ing. The interface, ace circuit 112 is a A similar method for [backup mode] and “basic mode i” to make the symptoms appear Includes diagnostic mode selection line.

Interface circuit 112 is capable of receiving data from an onboard vehicle computer. Contains several conductors that can be used.

That is, for example, a conductor marked ``rCLCC data'' may be The conductor used to receive data and labeled "rEFI data" Used to receive data from vehicles equipped with a gas tank.

The EFI data conductor also connects to and from the onboard vehicle computer. It is also connected to a series input/output conductor 124 which acts as a high speed communication line. . This means that in some on-board vehicle computers, EFI data is 8192 baud or 9600 baud). Interfuture The base circuit 112 also provides information from the onboard vehicle computer to the torque converter clutch. When a locking command is given, the rTcc solenoid that receives the command is also marked. Contains another conductor. Each of the above data receiving conductors is connected to 0LCG data sIm. The buffer amplifier circuit 126 is connected to a buffer amplifier circuit such as a buffer amplifier circuit 126 for a buffer amplifier. CLCC Data sI! And the output of the 1lIiii amplifier circuit for EFI data s11 is , and by further connecting the gate logic circuit 128, these two low-speed devices Which of the data lines is r　A　L　D　1. , via J data line 130 You can select whether data should be transmitted to the computer chip.

Interface circuit 112 further includes a 5 volt pull-up signal to the onboard vehicle controller. It includes a relay circuit 132 for transmitting data to the computer. similar relay Circuit 134 operates the air control solenoid in the vehicle's air management system. used for. Each of these relay circuits is connected to a microcomputer chip 7. 2 through the vIA chip 116. Contains a transistor that closes the relay when activated.

Cartridge circuit 110 includes a diode 136, which is connected to the vehicle It should also be noted that it has the function of protecting the Vi device 10 from the negative voltage supplied from the be.

Additionally, the cartridge circuit 110 may include some metal oxides such as MOV138. It should also be noted that it includes an object varistor (rMOVJ). These metal acids Compound varistors are designed to provide low resistance to high voltage levels. and protect the circuit from abnormal voltage surges.

In Figure 4b, cartridge circuit 110 includes three memory circuits 140-144. It is shown as if the

Memory circuits 140-142 are each 32K x 8 pit EPROM chips. These provide at least some access to data from the on-board vehicle computer. As a read-only memory for storing computer programs that control the Operate. In other words, these memory chips 140-142 are In order to properly communicate with the specific vehicle for which the cartridge is designed, Stores programs used by computers.

In the current case, the cartridge must have two separate 32 memory chips. Although not required, in this particular embodiment these memory chips increases flexibility in the future when additional memory space is eventually needed. It is prepared for you. So, for example, if these memory chips If you want to place only one of these chips in the cartridge, the address for these chips is be provided with appropriate jumpers 146 and 148 to easily change the requirements of .

Memory chip 144 preferably stores a plurality of data received from the onboard vehicle computer. 8K x 8 pit random access memory used to store data stream (rRAMJ). In this regard, the interface 112 may be configured to The data received from both computers is first transmitted to the microcomputer chip 72. The microcomputer chip 72 then transfers this data to the memory chip 144. The circular file is stored in a circular file by the operator. allows scrolling through a set of data parameters. memory chip 14 4 also carries a microcomputer chip 72 from the on-board vehicle computer. Preprocess incoming data by inspecting and checking these data streams. It is also used to make people understand.

Cartridge circuit 110 also indicates that the cartridge is removed from control station 12. If power is disconnected from the cartridge, such as when The device is characterized by having a power storage device for retaining the stored data stream. shall be. Preferably, this power storage device is connected to the voltage input board of memory chip 144. A large capacitor, such as a 1F capacitor 150 connected to the Configure from Diode 152 is connected between the 5 volt II source and capacitor 150. to prevent the capacitor from discharging into the 5 volt power supply. Capacity A battery can be used instead of the capacitor 150, but the capacitor It has the advantage that it does not need to be replaced. Cartridge circuit 110 also provides power When first supplied to the cartridge, there is a reset signal on the 16156 that generates a heliset signal. It includes a set circuit 154. In this regard, reset circuit 154 connects capacitor 1 58 and resistor 160, which in combination cause the power to initially When the voltage is applied, the transistor 162 turns on and generates a reset signal. gives the time delay between The reset signal on line 156 is activated at startup. All chips in the cartridge and everything in the control station need to be reset used to reset the chip.

FIG. 4b also shows that the interface circuit 112 outputs 's! High speed data on 1124 It is shown that a high-speed transmission circuit 164 for transmitting and receiving signals is provided. Tradition The transmission circuit 164 includes a switch 111124 between the open state and the O volt state. A FET transistor 166 is provided for this purpose. The inverter 168 is FET) - To protect transistor 166 from excessive drying current or logic reversal. It is used for A pair of inverters 170-172 are connected to a microcomputer. act as a buffer to protect the UART circuitry contained within the data chip 72. It is used in the receiving line.

In FIG. 4C, cartridge circuit 110 has a velocity of 8192 ports on conductor 176. is shown to include an oscillator circuit 174 adapted to generate a signal of There is.

In this regard, the oscillator circuit 174 includes a 4.19304 MHz crystal and a pair of ripple counters 178, 115 and 180, and these ripple counters 178, 115 and 180 Each of these data has functions of frequency division by 4 and frequency division by 8. Therefore, cartridge circuit 1 10 enables high-speed data and other signal communication with onboard vehicle combicoaters. ii! may be provided with one or more oscillator circuits, making it easy! II Should.

Figures 5a and 5b show cars manufactured by Chrysler. A structural diagram of a cartridge circuit 182 for diagnosing both is shown. For convenience, Components similar to those described in connection with Figures 4a and 4b include Figures 5a and 4b. In FIG. 5b, a dash is added. In the case of cartridge circuit 182 , a substantially simplified interface circuit 184 is used. Interfuture The base circuit 184 provides diagnostic enablement or Includes a "read-hold" line 186, which carries a signal to the onboard vehicle computer. and causes the computer to transmit the data via data line 188 to the device. . General Motors interface times As with high speed data line 124 of line 110, VIA chip 116' transmits the data directly to the microcomputer chip 72 contained within the successor department 12. Bypassed for. Interface circuit 184 may also be configured by software. Relay for transmitting actuator signals to the onboard vehicle computer under control. - circuit 190. FIG. 5a further shows that cartridge circuit 182 has 976 ports. and an oscillator circuit 192 for generating a 7812 baud clock signal. and

Figures 6a and 6b illustrate diagnosing a vehicle manufactured by Ford. A cartridge circuit 194 is shown for. The cartridge circuit 194 The body includes an interface circuit designated by reference numeral 196. This interface The face circuit includes a relay circuit 198 which closes the relay. A “latch” signal is transmitted to the onboard vehicle computer to and send the data to the device. Interface circuit 196 also connects W! for receiving data sent from a computer. Including i amplifier circuit 126# .

The interface circuit 196 also provides a link from the onboard vehicle computer to the 81110. During the data transmission, Qi or includes an rsONALERTJ circuit 200 for producing a beeping sound. . To be more specific, the microcomputer chip 72 passes through the VIA circuit 116#. The Sonarato command is transmitted to the NAND gate 204. Output of NAND gate 204 In the power state, the transistor included in the buffer amplifier circuit 126 is turned on as a gate. and in response to being turned off, it is caused to change to a high level and a low level.

As can be seen from the above, VIA chips 116, 116' and 116'' are The data lines of your bus structure and the interface circuits specific to your cartridge application. Provides a leap communication link with the road. In addition, all computers that operate the FF10 The data program is stored in EPROM circuits 140-142, but IIJ to the computer chip 72 or other suitable microcomputer circuit. Read to store common parts of programs necessary to operate II1 station It is also possible to provide additional dedicated memory.

The various embodiments described above are for illustrative purposes and are not intended to limit the invention. It's not a thing. A person familiar with this technical field will understand that Without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, these It will be appreciated that various changes and modifications may be made to the embodiments. Ru.

Two, two;'] two Ni = = 匡 = =, two.

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Claims (20)

[Claims] (1) An exchange that can communicate with the on-board vehicle computer from vehicles of different manufacturers. A replaceable diagnostic device with a portable housing and an operator-friendly diagnostic test procedure. from said onboard vehicle computer; a display device for selectively displaying the received data; and a display device for selectively displaying the received data; and a microprocessor for communicating with the display device and executing the diagnostic test procedure. a universal communication control station having a computer circuit device; a housing coupled to the portable housing of the control station; and a housing coupled to the portable housing of the control station; an interface device for receiving data from a computer, and an on-board vehicle computer. A computer program that at least partially controls access to data from a computer. a programmed memory device for storing the program; The interface device and the programmed memory device are connected to the main microcontroller of the control station. a removable cartridge in communication with the computer circuitry; Replaceable diagnostic equipment including. (2) In claim 1, the cartridge comprises the microcomputer circuit. a random access memory device for communicating with a device and storing a plurality of said data streams; Interchangeable diagnostic equipment, including: (3) In claim 2, the cartridge is configured such that power is disconnected from the cartridge. when the random access memory device stores the stored data stream. Interchangeable diagnostic equipment, including power storage for maintenance purposes. (4) The exchange according to claim 3, wherein the power storage device is constituted by a capacitor. Possible diagnostic equipment. (5) Interchangeable devices that can communicate with on-board vehicle computers from vehicles of different manufacturers. A replaceable diagnostic device with a portable housing and an operator-friendly diagnostic test procedure. from said onboard vehicle computer; a display device for selectively displaying the received data; and a display device for selectively displaying the received data; and a microprocessor for communicating with the display device and executing the diagnostic test procedure. computer circuitry and signals to and from the onboard vehicle computer; a first terminal device for enabling transmission from the computer; Goten and a housing coupled to the portable housing of the control station; and a housing coupled to the portable housing of the control station; communicates with the onboard vehicle computer to transmit the data stream; and an interface device for receiving the data flow from the onboard vehicle computer; Stores a computer program that at least partially controls access to data a memory device programmed to and the programmed memory device is connected to the microcomputer circuit of the control station. a removable cartridge in communication with the road; Replaceable diagnostic equipment including. (6) In claim 5, the data stream is directly transmitted from the first terminal device of the control station. the interface device of the cartridge; Interchangeable diagnostic equipment. (7) In claim 6, the first terminal device is a pin device for receiving electric power. , a path device for transmitting the power directly to the cartridge; Therefore, when the cartridge is removed from the control station, power to the control station is cut off. It's starting to feel like I'm being forced to do it. Interchangeable diagnostic equipment. (8) In claim 5, the cartridge comprises the microcomputer circuit. a random access memory device for communicating with a device and storing a plurality of said data streams; Interchangeable diagnostic equipment, including: (9) In claim 8, the cartridge is configured such that power is disconnected from the cartridge. when the random access memory device stores the stored data stream. Interchangeable diagnostic equipment, including power storage for maintenance purposes. (10) In claim 9, the power storage device is an interchangeable power storage device comprising a capacitor. Replaceable diagnostic equipment. (11) In claim 5, the control station includes the microcomputer circuit device The control station connects to the onboard vehicle computer and transmits the data flow from the onboard vehicle computer to an external device. Interchangeable diagnostic equipment including communication circuitry capable of transmitting data to (12) In claim 11, the communication circuit device performs serial communication with the external device. Interchangeable diagnostic equipment, including a UART for performing (13) In claim 5, the display device is constituted by an LCD display device, and the A control station controls the viewing angle of the LCD display device by the microcomputer circuit device. Interchangeable diagnostic equipment, including a contrast circuit device that adjusts under (14) In claim 13, the contrast circuit device comprises: a pulse signal whose frequency is controlled by a command signal from a computer circuit device a timer device for generating the pulse signal, and a timer device for generating the pulse signal in relation to the frequency of the pulse signal. a converter for converting the voltage signal into a voltage signal having an amplitude of Device. (15) According to claim 5, the interface device generates a clock signal. an oscillator for oscillating the clock signal, thereby causing the diagnostic device to oscillate the frequency of the clock signal. to communicate with the onboard vehicle computer at a baud rate determined by the wave number; A replaceable diagnostic device. (16) In claim 5, the housing of the cartridge is a housing of the portable cartridge. a replaceable diagnostic device coupled to said control station along a substantial length of said control station; (17) In claim 16, the rear surface of the housing of the cartridge is a replaceable diagnostic device extending generally along the rear surface of the portable housing; . (18) According to claim 17, the housing of the cartridge is Interchangeable diagnostic equipment that is almost contained within the exterior of the housing. (19) In claim 5, the cartridge housings are substantially parallel to each other. Interchangeable diagnostic equipment that is wide enough to include two circuit boards that span. (20) Use communication control station to access data from designated onboard vehicle computers A removable cartridge that can be used housing and Typically extends from one end of the housing to provide a plurality of electrical signal connections to the communications control station. a terminal device comprising: a terminal device communicating with the terminal device and at least one predetermined onboard vehicle controller; an interface that allows a computer to send a data stream and receives the data stream a terminal device that communicates with the terminal device and receives data from the predetermined onboard vehicle computer; storing a computer program that at least partially controls access to the data; a programmed memory device; Includes removable cartridge.