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Method and system for communication with an engine control module in sleep mode

  • US 5,999,876 A
  • Filed: 04/01/1998
  • Issued: 12/07/1999
  • Est. Priority Date: 04/01/1998
  • Status: Expired due to Term
First Claim
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1. An engine control system for controlling and monitoring engine operation in response to execution of a sequence of commands stored onboard the vehicle and modifiable by an external data transmission tool, comprising:

  • an engine control module (ECM) executing operating commands to monitor engine operation and to control engine operation based upon modifiable operating parameters, and having a memory for storing the modifiable operating parameters and data indicative of monitored engine operating conditions;

    a plurality of data links operatively connected to said ECM for the transmission of data to and from said ECM, at least one data link providing communication between said ECM and an external data transmission tool;

    a sleep mode task module within said ECM for placing the ECM in a sleep mode of reduced power consumption in which said ECM ceases executing the operating commands, said sleep mode task module including;

    a sleep mode termination timer for timing the length of time the ECM is in the sleep mode;

    communication processor means within said ECM for permitting communication with the external data transmission tool only over said at least one data link during said sleep mode to access said memory of said ECM to download said data indicative of monitored engine operating conditions or to modify said operating parameters within said memory; and

    power down means for placing the ECM in a power down state upon expiration of a predetermined time period counted by said sleep termination mode timer.

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