Modular vehicular diagnostic tool
First Claim
1. A data acquisition, diagnostic and programming system for displaying operator configurable information relating to a vehicle comprising:
- at least two structurally similar modules constructed and arranged to be in communication with a vehicle, at least one of the two structurally similar modules including a device constructed and arranged to obtain information relating to the operation of said vehicle;
a data link extending between said vehicle and said at least one module, said data link providing bi-directional communication between said at least one module and said vehicle, said at least one module containing software constructed and arranged to evaluate the operating parameters of said vehicle, communicate with said vehicle and update the operating parameters of said vehicle; and
wherein the two structurally similar modules further comprise a first side and a second side of each module, the first side and second side being generally opposite to each other, the first side is shaped as a receptacle, the second side is shaped as a projection, wherein the projection of one module is configured to mate with the receptacle of the other module.
2 Assignments
0 Petitions
Accused Products
Abstract
A vehicle computer interface and software upgrade tool is in the form of a module. A base module contains basic vehicle interface, information and software. Additional modules can be connected to the base module or similar modules to provide a user or technician with the latest interface and software upgrades for vehicles, new vehicle data and new reprogramming features for existing vehicles. This is an expandable system which enables a user of technician to only purchase a relatively small module or component that contains the new interface or information rather than having to repurchase an entire new scan tool or vehicle analyzer. The modules are readily connectable to a vehicle'"'"'s data port, commonly known as an OBD II connector or port. The modules also include additional connection ports for power in, power out, USB and/or pin connectors which provide for the export of data and other connectors. These modules can also be used in conjunction with an intelligent cable. The intelligent cable has a small computer embedded within the cable to enable sensitive electronic components to be used without cable transmission losses or electrical disturbances.
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Citations
22 Claims
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1. A data acquisition, diagnostic and programming system for displaying operator configurable information relating to a vehicle comprising:
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at least two structurally similar modules constructed and arranged to be in communication with a vehicle, at least one of the two structurally similar modules including a device constructed and arranged to obtain information relating to the operation of said vehicle; a data link extending between said vehicle and said at least one module, said data link providing bi-directional communication between said at least one module and said vehicle, said at least one module containing software constructed and arranged to evaluate the operating parameters of said vehicle, communicate with said vehicle and update the operating parameters of said vehicle; and wherein the two structurally similar modules further comprise a first side and a second side of each module, the first side and second side being generally opposite to each other, the first side is shaped as a receptacle, the second side is shaped as a projection, wherein the projection of one module is configured to mate with the receptacle of the other module. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17)
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18. A method of data acquisition and programming for displaying operator configurable information relating to a vehicle comprising the steps of:
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providing at least two structurally similar modules, wherein at least one of the two structurally similar modules is constructed and arranged to be in communication with a vehicle, said modules including a device constructed and arranged to display information relating to the operation of said vehicle; providing a data link extending between said vehicle and said at least one module, said data link providing bi-directional communication between said at least one module and said vehicle, said at least one module containing software constructed and arranged to evaluate the operating parameters of said vehicle, communicate with said vehicle and update the operating parameters of said vehicle and wherein the at least two structurally similar modules further comprise a first side and a second side of each module, the first side and second side being generally opposite to each other, the first side is shaped as a receptacle, the second side is shaped as a projection, wherein the projection of one module is configured to mate with the receptacle of the other module. - View Dependent Claims (19, 20, 21, 22)
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Specification