Patent ID: 9658271
Date: 2017-05-23
CPC Classifications: G01R

Claim:
1. A computer implemented method for illuminating faults in a wiring system in a vehicle, the computer implemented method comprising: sending a set of spread spectrum test time domain reflectometry signals through a set of paths in the wiring system in the vehicle during operation of the wiring system, wherein the set of spread spectrum test signals includes a pseudo noise code, operation of the wiring system comprises normal usage of the wiring system in operation in which data signals, power, or data signals and power are present in the wiring system; detecting a set of reflected pulses generated in response to the set of test signals during operation of the wiring system; analyzing in real time the set of reflected pulses to determine whether the fault has occurred; responsive to detecting the fault, estimating a location of the fault within the wiring system; presenting a wiring diagram for the wiring system with an indication of the location of the fault within the wiring system; and presenting an installation diagram for the wiring system with an indication of the location of the fault within the installation diagram, the installation diagram comprising the wiring diagram combined with a diagram of the vehicle so as to identify an actual location of the fault within the vehicle, and the installation diagram illustrating a physical relationship between the wiring diagram and the diagram of the vehicle.