Abstract:
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&#39;s control modules. The vehicle can be reprogrammed to accept vehicle manufacture&#39;s updates and/or performance updates. Once the reprogramming is finished the module is removed from the dock and is be placed into/onto the vehicle&#39;s dashboard or other location readily viewable by the vehicle operator to report one or more of the vehicle&#39;s operating parameters. The present invention is readily connectable to a vehicle&#39;s data link for bi-directional communication with the various control modules on the vehicle.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     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&#39;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&#39;s computer. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     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. 
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PRIOR ART 
     “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&#39;s onboard computer. These reprogramming requirements normally reflect changes recommended by the automobile manufacturer. Software changes can also be utilized to improve a vehicle&#39;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&#39;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&#39;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. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     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&#39;s control modules. The vehicle can be reprogrammed to accept vehicle manufacture&#39;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&#39;s dashboard or other location readily viewable by the vehicle operator to report one or more of the vehicle&#39;s operating parameters. The present invention is readily connectable to a vehicle&#39;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&#39;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. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES 
         FIG. 1  is a front perspective view of a diagnostic/programming display module installed in a dock of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a front perspective view of the dock without the diagnostic/programming display module; 
         FIG. 3  is a front view of the dock without the diagnostic/programming display module; 
         FIG. 4  is a top view of the dock without the diagnostic/programming display module; 
         FIG. 5  is a top view of the diagnostic/programming display module; 
         FIG. 6  is a side view of the diagnostic/programming display module; 
         FIG. 7  is a rear view of the diagnostic/programming module and gauge only; 
         FIG. 8  is a rear perspective view of the diagnostic/programming display module with an adapter ring installed; 
         FIG. 9  is a rear perspective view of the diagnostic/programming display module with an adapter for a T slot connection; and 
         FIG. 10  is a schematic view of the present invention connected to an on-board control module of a vehicle. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     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  FIGS. 1-10 , the present invention will now be described. As illustrated in  FIGS. 1 and 10 , the present invention  10  includes a diagnostic/programming/gauge display module  12  which can be removable secured into a dock  14 . The module  12  is connected to a vehicle&#39;s on-board control modules  18  via a data link cable. The vehicle&#39;s data link cable  20  is connected to a data link connector or port  22 . Preferably the data link connector  22  is a 16 pin connector such as an OBD II connector. The data link connector can also be any other type of connector used on vehicles which enable a technician or vehicle operator to communicate with the vehicle&#39;s on-board control modules. Another data link cable  24  is connected between the connector  22  and the dock  14  of the present invention. The module  12  can also be directly connected to the vehicle using a data link cable in place of the dock  14 . 
     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&#39;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&#39;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  FIGS. 2 and 4 , cable  24  communicates with the display module  12  through connectors  30 . These connectors are similar to the connector found in OBD II connection or port. In the event that the present invention was to be utilized on a non U.S. vehicle, the connectors  30  may need be different. They would need to conform to the data port connection employed by the manufacturer of the vehicle. Connectors  32  on the display module  12 ,  FIG. 7 , receive the connectors  30  and allow bi-directional transmission of data between the display module  12  and the control modules of a vehicle. 
     Connector  34 ,  FIG. 3 , is used to download programming updates and/or modifications for the vehicle&#39;s control modules to the display module  12 . Connector  34  can be any type of connector, such as a USB connector, which would enable the display module  12  to communicate with a device that has a programming update or modification for the control modules of the vehicle. Whenever the display module  12  is being reprogrammed, updated or “flashed”, buttons  36 ,  38  and  40  may be used in conjunctions with these updates or modifications. Buttons  36 ,  38  and  40  can also be employed to download all or portions of updates or modifications to a vehicle&#39;s control modules. The computer within the display module can be utilized to transmit the reprogramming or updating to the various vehicle control modules. 
     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&#39;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 ,  FIGS. 8 and 9 , can be secured to the display module which would enable the installation of module  12  into different vehicles. Adaptor  48 , for example, would permit module  12  to be installed into an opening larger in diameter than the rear portion of module  12 . Adaptor  50  would enable module  12  to be installed in a T-slot type of installation. Hook and loop fasteners and double sided tape could also be utilized to mount display module  12  to a vehicle. In addition to the data link connections on the rear of module  12 , there could be additional connections to provide electrical power to the module  12  for functions such as illumination of the display. Thus the module  12  can be readily installed and removed from both the dock  14  and the vehicle. 
     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.