Expanded functionality protocol adapter for in-vehicle networks

• US 20020046313A1
• Filed: 08/29/2001
• Published: 04/18/2002
• Est. Priority Date: 08/30/2000
• Status: Active Grant

• Current Assignee: Dearborn Group, Inc.
• Original Assignee: Dearborn Group, Inc.
• Inventors: McClure, Robert, Such, David
• Granted Patent: US 7,152,133 B2
• Time in Patent Office: Days
• US Class Current: 710/305
• CPC Class Codes: G06F 13/385 for adaptation of a particular data processing system to different peripheral devices

Abstract

The invention is an improved protocol adapter for in-vehicle networks for diagnostics, analysis and monitoring. The invention has a pass through feature (voltage translator)/smart mode that allows the protocol adapter to emulate older boxes. Visual indicators (LEDs) indicate the pass through feature is in operation. LEDs also indicate activity on the on the RS232 bus between the adapter and a PC. Single color and multiple color emitting LEDs indicate a program is being executed and identify the program that is being executed. The protocol adapter supports RP1202 and RP1210, J1708 and J1939 and J1939 Transport Layer. The improved protocol adapter has a Real Time Clock, Standard COMM port connection, 7-32 Volt Supply and is CE compliant. The adapter can be used wirelessly.

Claims

1. An improved protocol adapter having circuitry and programs for in-vehicle networks, the improvement comprising:

reflashing of firmware.

2. An improved protocol adapter having circuitry and programs for in-vehicle networks, the improvement comprising:

means for indicating activity on a RS232 bus between the adapter and a PC.

3. An improved protocol adapter having circuitry and programs for in-vehicle networks according to claim 2 wherein the means for indicating comprises:

at least one LED to visually indicate activity on a RS232 bus between the adapter and a PC.

4. An improved protocol adapter having circuitry and programs for in-vehicle networks, the improvement comprising:

means for indicating a program being executed by the protocol adapter.

5. An improved protocol adapter having circuitry and programs for in-vehicle networks according to claim 4 wherein the means for indicating comprises:

multiple color emitting LED'"'"'S.

6. An improved protocol adapter having circuitry and programs for in-vehicle networks, the improvement comprising:

means for identifying a program being executed by the protocol adapter.

7. An improved protocol adapter having circuitry and programs for in-vehicle networks according to claim 6 wherein the means for identifying comprises:

multiple color emitting LED'"'"'S.

8. An improved protocol adapter having circuitry and programs for in-vehicle networks, the improvement comprising:

a pass-through to emulate at least an other protocol adapter.

9. An improved protocol adapter having circuitry and programs for in-vehicle networks according to claim 8, the improvement comprising:

at least one multiple color emitting LED to indicate the operation of a pass-through to emulate at least an other protocol adapter.