Feature enabling unit
First Claim
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1. An enabling unit for activating a feature in an electronic control unit on a vehicle, comprising:
- a port selectively connected to a communication link of a vehicle, an electronic control unit on the vehicle communicating with the communication link; and
a processor, selectively communicating with the electronic control unit via the port, including a message for enabling a dormant feature included on the electronic control unit, the message temporarily enabling the feature while the processor is communicating with the electronic control unit.
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Abstract
An enabling unit for activating a feature in an electronic control unit on a vehicle includes a port for communicating with an electronic control unit included on the vehicle. A processor, which communicates with the port, includes a message for enabling a dormant feature included on the electronic control unit.
30 Citations
13 Claims
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1. An enabling unit for activating a feature in an electronic control unit on a vehicle, comprising:
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a port selectively connected to a communication link of a vehicle, an electronic control unit on the vehicle communicating with the communication link; and a processor, selectively communicating with the electronic control unit via the port, including a message for enabling a dormant feature included on the electronic control unit, the message temporarily enabling the feature while the processor is communicating with the electronic control unit.
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2. An enabling unit for activating a feature in an electronic control unit on a vehicle, comprising:
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a port selectively connected to a communication link of a vehicle, an electronic control unit on the vehicle communicating with the communication link; and a processor, selectively communicating with the electronic control unit via the port, including a message for enabling a dormant feature included on the electronic control unit, the message permanently enabling the feature.
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3. A method for enabling a feature on an electronic control unit, the method comprising:
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removably connecting a portable connector to a communication link on a vehicle for connecting a controller on the connector to the electronic control unit on the vehicle via the communication link; determining whether to communicate a message from the controller to the electronic control unit; if it is determined to communicate the message; communicating the message from the controller to the electronic control unit via the connector and the communication link; and activating the feature on the electronic control unit as a function of the message; and disconnecting the controller from the electronic control unit. - View Dependent Claims (4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13)
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Specification