Diagnostic connector assembly (DCA) interface unit (DIU)

Abstract

In a diagnostics system for use on vehicles, wherein the improvement comprises a connector assembly that translates diagnostic connector assembly signals into a digital format suitable for computer based analysis and fault diagnosis on an individual vehicle and vehicle fleet basis.

Description

RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This Application claims rights under 35 USC §119(e) from U.S. Application Ser. No. 61 / 154,588 filed Feb. 23, 2009, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]The present invention relates to embedded vehicle diagnostic systems and more particularly to interface units supporting embedded diagnostics for existing analog diagnostic connector assemblies.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]In the past, diagnostic connector assemblies (DCAs) have been built into legacy military vehicles typically for associated analog sensor measurements from the engine or transmission. These diagnostic connectors were used in conjunction with specialized test equipment, in which the test equipment was typically brought out to a vehicle after a problem was encountered. When not in use, the diagnostic connector assembly is protected by a dust cover. This concept of operation does not provide constant, real time monitoring because the test e...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent describes a low-cost connector assembly or module that translates the signals of a legacy diagnostic connector assembly into a digital format for computer-based analysis and fault diagnosis on individual vehicles and vehicle fleets. The module is designed to interface with older vehicles that have only the diagnostic connector and provide embedded diagnostic capabilities where none previously existed. The module uses technology to ascertain what signals need to be measured, the signal conditions, and the parameters of those signals. It can be connected to on-board computers or external diagnostic test equipment and provides a means for transmitting relevant information to crew or maintainers at the vehicle. The diagnostic interface unit is adaptable for use with vehicles that have different levels of diagnostic capabilities. It includes specific circuits for measuring different types of signals and performs sampling, signal conditioning, and sometimes provides diagnostic test stimulus. The system connects to the existing analog connector and provides a device for digitizing the signals from legacy vehicles and also for embedded diagnostic capabilities where there was previously none.

Problems solved by technology

This concept of operation does not provide constant, real time monitoring because the test equipment had to be moved up to a vehicle each time testing was required.

This increases the logistical footprint because of added test equipment for maintainer to bring forward, as well as test equipment to be maintained over the extended life cycle of the platform.

Significantly, the special test equipment used in the past was only effective after a failure because on board vehicle health was not continually monitored.

Support of the specialized test equipment and personnel training increases cost of the support function and increased the logistics footprint.

Images