Vehicle diagnosis method and system

Abstract

Systems and methods of performing a diagnostic assessment of a vehicle include connecting a local computing device to the vehicle, establishing a wireless communication link between a remote computing device and the local computing device such that a remote expert using the remote computing device can control the local computing device, and performing a diagnostic assessment of the vehicle. The local computing device is controlled using the remote computing device to access the OEM portal and perform a diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle, where the diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle is performed by the OEM portal using the local computing device, where the local computing device is controllable by the remote computing device.

Description

Background Art

[0001] The present specification relates to a method of performing a diagnostic evaluation of a vehicle and a method of servicing a vehicle. In addition, the present specification relates to a system for performing a diagnostic evaluation of a vehicle.

[0002] Today, diagnostic evaluations of vehicles in which a computing device is connected to the vehicle are a relatively common part of vehicle maintenance. However, the extent and usefulness of these diagnostic evaluations can vary widely depending on the technician performing the evaluation.

[0003] Safety systems in vehicles such as cars, motorcycles, trucks and heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) are becoming increasingly complex. Many vehicles now include advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) to assist the driver with driving and parking and to improve road safety. ADAS use sensors such as cameras and other electronic devices to detect obstacles or driver errors and respond accordingly. As a result, most vehicles now include sensor arrays and related electrical systems. These safety systems (such as ADAS or other sensor arrays) need to be correctly installed and maintained in order to work properly. The requirements for how to correctly install and maintain a vehicle's safety systems (and other electronic systems) vary from vehicle manufacturer to vehicle manufacturer and often depend on the specific model. As a result, vehicle repairs are now more complex and should be performed by experts. Summary of the invention

[0004] Aspects of the invention are set out in the accompanying independent and dependent claims. Combinations of features in the dependent claims may be combined with features of the independent claims as appropriate and not just as explicitly defined in the claims.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for performing a diagnostic evaluation of a vehicle, comprising connecting a local computing device to the vehicle, wherein the local computing device and the vehicle are arranged at a first location, providing a remote computing device at a second location, wherein the second location is remote from the first location, establishing a wireless communication link between the remote computing device and the local computing device, so that the remote computing device can control the local computing device. Using the remote computing device, controlling the local computing device to access an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) portal website, and operably connecting the OEM portal website to the local computing device, and performing a diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle, wherein the diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle is performed by the OEM portal website using the local computing device, wherein the local computing device can be controlled by the remote computing device.

[0006] Equivalently, the vehicle diagnostic evaluation may be considered to be performed by a local computing device using the OEM portal, where the local computing device may be controlled by the remote computing device.

[0007] Thus, according to the present invention, a remote expert (or remote technician, or remote professional) is able to initiate and control a vehicle diagnostic evaluation from a location remote from the vehicle itself. The expert may be a professional required in a particular OEM diagnostic evaluation process for a given vehicle. Advantageously, the present invention means that the expert does not have to travel to the location of the vehicle. This also enables the expert to control multiple vehicle diagnostic evaluations simultaneously from their remote computing device.

[0008] Experts in vehicle diagnostics are difficult to recruit as demand outstrips supply, so the solution provided in the present invention helps to reduce geographical recruitment requirements. In addition, the complexity and diversity of OEM tools means that it is difficult to train all technicians to have the skills required to ensure that all customer vehicles are repaired correctly. Having a few fully trained experts can ensure that all diagnostic requirements are met, where a company may have to repair vehicles of all makes, models, ages and complexities. Therefore, the method of the present invention can be considered to increase safety because it ensures that the diagnostic assessment is performed by a qualified professional rather than by a local technician who may not be able to perform the assessment correctly.

[0009] As described above, in the present invention, the remote expert using the remote computing device accesses the OEM portal through the local computing device. Thus, the local technician at the first location does not connect the local computing device to the OEM portal. This is advantageous compared to an approach where the local technician at the first location has access to the OEM portal because it increases security and maintains quality standards by ensuring that access to the OEM portal is limited to qualified professionals and not local technicians who may attempt to initiate an assessment on their own without proper training or certification.

[0010] It should be understood that the second location is geographically remote from the first location (i.e., not in the same room but slightly separated). Alternatively, the first location may be a garage or auto repair facility, while the second location may be a professional technical center or a business or private residence of a remote professional. It should be understood that these locations are provided by way of example only and are not limiting.

[0011] Although the local computing device may be primarily controlled by the remote computing device to manage the diagnostic evaluation, it should be understood that the local technician at the first location may control the local computing device if desired. Even though the local computing device at the first location is under the control of the remote expert, the technician may be able to input keystrokes and take control if desired. Thus, the wireless communication link does not limit control of the local computing device to the remote computing device.

[0012] Alternatively, the OEM portal website may be referred to as an OEM database. The OEM database may be hosted on a remote server.

[0013] Alternatively, the OEM portal is a diagnostic tool accessible via a communication network (such as the Internet). Thus, the OEM portal may be hosted on a web page. The OEM portal may include a menu-driven web page that controls actions on the vehicle (via a local computing device) or displays data from the vehicle on a local computing device. In some embodiments, the OEM portal may be accessed via a vehicle manufacturer web page.

[0014] Establishing a wireless communication link between the remote computing device and the local computing device may include using a remote desktop application on the remote computing device. Using the remote desktop application may also be referred to as activating or starting the remote desktop application. Various software solutions capable of remotely controlling a computing device may be used, and these software solutions are within the scope of the present invention.

[0015] Optionally, the wireless communication link between the remote computing device and the local computing device may have a non-operational mode or a sleep mode as well as an operational mode.The method may include activating the wireless communication link between the remote computing device and the local computing device.

[0016] Optionally, controlling the local computing device to access the OEM portal website includes using the local computing device to access the OEM portal website via a wireless communication network. For example, the remote computing device can instruct the local computing device to access a web page of the OEM portal website. The OEM portal website can be accessed via a URL.

[0017] Accessing the OEM portal also includes entering authentication details on a local computing device via a wireless communication link, wherein the authentication details are associated with a registered user of the OEM portal. A registered user may be a remote expert. Thus, a local technician at the first location may not have access to the authentication details, and access is therefore limited to the remote expert (again raising safety and quality standards).

[0018] Alternatively, the remote expert using the remote computing device may control the local computing device to enter login details for the OEM portal, such as a username and password, where the login details are associated with the remote expert's registered account at the OEM portal. This certification process can ensure that only qualified personnel have the necessary permissions to perform remote diagnostic evaluations on vehicles manufactured by the OEM.

[0019] Optionally, before enabling the remote computing device to control the local computing device, the method further includes sending an electronic communication to the remote technician to request initiation of a remote diagnostic evaluation. The remote technician may be located at the second location, but it should be understood that the remote technician may not be at the second location when sending and / or receiving the communication.

[0020] In other words, prior to enabling the remote computing device to control the local computing device, the method may include sending an electronic communication to the remote technician requesting that the wireless communication link be initiated.

[0021] Electronic communications can be (but are not limited to) emails, phone calls, text messages, or messages in communication applications.

[0022] Alternatively, electronic communications may be sent from a local computing device to a remote computing device.

[0023] Alternatively, the electronic communication may be sent from the second local computing device to the second remote computing device. In some embodiments, the second local computing device and / or the second remote computing device may be a mobile phone or a tablet computer.

[0024] Performing a diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle may include performing a diagnostic scan or a diagnostic pre-scan of at least one electronic system in the vehicle.

[0025] A diagnostic scan or diagnostic pre-scan may determine the status of at least one electronic system in the vehicle. It should be understood that a pre-scan may be performed as an initial scan before taking a specific action, such as replacing a vehicle component.

[0026] Optionally, the diagnostic evaluation includes performing a diagnostic scan or diagnostic pre-scan on at least one electronic system of the vehicle and identifying at least one fault code associated with the at least one electronic system. The terms fault code and error code are interchangeable.

[0027] Optionally, the diagnostic evaluation includes outputting or storing at least one identified fault code.

[0028] According to a second aspect, the invention provides a method of servicing a vehicle, comprising performing a diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle according to any embodiment or example of the first aspect of the invention, and taking at least one action in response to the diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle.

[0029] The at least one action may be performed by one or more of: a local computing device, a remote computing device, an OEM portal, a local technician at a first location, a remote technician at a second location.

[0030] Optionally, the diagnostic evaluation includes performing a diagnostic scan or a diagnostic pre-scan on at least one electronic system of the vehicle and identifying at least one fault code associated with the at least one electronic system.

[0031] The at least one action may include investigating the at least one fault code to determine a cause of the fault code.

[0032] Optionally, at least one action includes determining whether each fault code needs to be resolved. Equivalently, at least one action may include determining whether each fault code is relevant or requires attention, or determining the importance of each fault code.

[0033] Optionally, when it is determined that the fault code needs to be resolved (or the fault code is of high importance or requires attention), the method may include parsing the fault code or taking action to parse the fault code. The method may include clearing or erasing the fault code after parsing the fault code.

[0034] Optionally, when it is determined that the fault code does not need to be addressed (or the fault code is of low importance or does not require attention), the method may include clearing or erasing the fault code.

[0035] Optionally, at least one action includes programming and / or updating at least one software module of the vehicle. Specifically, at least one action may include programming and / or updating firmware of at least one software module of the vehicle.

[0036] Optionally, at least one action includes retrieving and / or storing data generated by a diagnostic evaluation performed on the vehicle or by a repair performed on the vehicle. For example, the data may be used to provide confirmation of a vehicle repair.

[0037] Optionally, the data may include fault codes and / or process information associated with at least one action taken (e.g., recalibration of a vehicle sensor). The data may provide a record of actions performed on the vehicle. Optionally, the data may provide evidence of recalibration to the customer. The data may be retrieved from an OEM portal and / or a local computing device. The data may be stored on a local computing device and / or a remote computing device.

[0038] Optionally, the at least one action includes initiating and managing a recalibration process of at least one vehicle sensor.

[0039] Optionally, at least one vehicle sensor includes a vehicle camera. In some embodiments, the vehicle sensor may be a front camera or a rear camera. At least one vehicle sensor is not limited to a camera. For example, at least one vehicle sensor may include a radar receiver or transmitter. In some embodiments, at least one sensor may form part of an advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS).

[0040] Optionally, the recalibration process includes identifying a position and / or orientation of the vehicle sensor. The position and / or orientation of the vehicle sensor may include a position and / or angle of the vehicle sensor relative to a predetermined reference point.

[0041] The recalibration process will vary depending on the type of vehicle sensor being recalibrated. Additionally, the recalibration process will vary depending on the make and model of the vehicle or depending on the OEM.

[0042] The recalibration process may include determining whether the vehicle sensor is in a correct position and / or orientation. The recalibration process may include determining whether the vehicle sensor is in a correct position and / or orientation relative to at least one predetermined reference point.

[0043] Optionally, the recalibration process includes determining where at least one vehicle sensor is pointing relative to a vehicle centerline and a horizontal line.It will be appreciated that each vehicle sensor may be individually calibrated.

[0044] Optionally, the local computing device may output data from at least one vehicle sensor during the calibration process. In some embodiments, the local computing device may display image or video data output from the vehicle sensor. The image or video data may enable a remote technician operating a remote computing device to determine whether the sensor is in the correct position. It should be understood that the OEM will typically predetermine the "correct" position for a given vehicle, so the OEM portal should know the "correct" sensor position.

[0045] Optionally, the recalibration process further includes outputting a confirmation to the local technician at the first location when it is determined that the vehicle sensor is in the correct position and / or orientation. The confirmation may indicate that the recalibration is complete.

[0046] Outputting the confirmation to the local technician may include sending an electronic communication to the local technician. Optionally, outputting the confirmation to the local technician may include the remote technician sending an electronic communication to the local technician, for example, the electronic communication may be a message displayed on the local computing device, an email, a text, or a phone call. The electronic communication may be sent to a second local computing device associated with the local technician.

[0047] Optionally, a confirmation may be automatically output to the local technician by the OEM portal or local computing device. Thus, this may not require any action by the remote technician.

[0048] When it is determined that the vehicle sensor is in an incorrect position and / or incorrect orientation, the method may include outputting instructions to a local technician at a first location to adjust the vehicle sensor to a correct position and / or orientation. The instructions may instruct the local technician to adjust the angle and / or position of a given vehicle sensor by a given amount.

[0049] Outputting instructions to the local technician may include sending an electronic communication to the local technician. Optionally, outputting instructions to the local technician may include the remote technician sending an electronic communication to the local technician, for example, the electronic communication may be a message displayed on the local computing device, an email, a text, or a phone call. The electronic communication may be sent to a second local computing device associated with the local technician.

[0050] Optionally, the recalibration process also includes providing the position and / or orientation of the vehicle sensor (e.g., the current position and / or orientation of the vehicle sensor) to at least one component of the vehicle. This may be necessary to ensure that the vehicle sensor system or the vehicle safety system operates correctly.

[0051] At least one component may be a software system. Optionally, at least one component may form part of a vehicle safety system. At least one component may form part of an ADAS.

[0052] Optionally, the diagnostic assessment is a first diagnostic assessment. Optionally, the method further comprises performing a second diagnostic assessment on the vehicle after taking at least one action. The second diagnostic assessment may be as described in any embodiment or example of the first aspect or the second aspect of the invention.

[0053] Thus, the second diagnostic assessment can be used to verify that any issues (e.g., fault codes) identified in the first diagnostic assessment have been resolved. Additionally or alternatively, the second diagnostic assessment can be used to verify that at least one action (e.g., recalibration of at least one vehicle sensor) has been completed satisfactorily and no further action is required.

[0054] A third aspect of the invention provides a method of replacing a component of a vehicle, comprising removing the component from the vehicle and installing a replacement component in the vehicle, and performing a diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle as described in any embodiment or example of the first or second aspect of the invention.

[0055] A fourth aspect of the invention provides a method of replacing a component of a vehicle, comprising removing the component from the vehicle and installing the replacement component in the vehicle, and servicing the vehicle as described in any embodiment or example of the second aspect of the invention.

[0056] A fifth aspect of the present invention provides a method for replacing a component of a vehicle, comprising performing a diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle, wherein the diagnostic evaluation is performed according to any embodiment or example of the first aspect of the present invention, removing the component from the vehicle and installing a replacement component in the vehicle, and repairing the vehicle according to any embodiment or example of the second aspect of the present invention.

[0057] Optionally, the component is part of a windshield, a body panel, a bumper, a wheel, a vehicle sensor and / or an electronic system.

[0058] In some embodiments, the method may include performing a diagnostic pre-scan on the vehicle, removing a windshield from the vehicle and installing a replacement windshield in the vehicle, and servicing the vehicle according to any embodiment or example of the second aspect of the invention, including recalibrating at least one vehicle sensor.

[0059] A sixth aspect of the present invention provides a vehicle diagnostic system, including an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) portal, a local computing device configured to be connected to a vehicle, and a remote computing device arranged at a second location. The local computing device and the vehicle are arranged at a first location. The second location is far away from the first location. The remote computing device is connected to the local computing device via a wireless communication link, so that the remote computing device can control the local computing device. The remote computing device can be operated to control the local computing device to access the OEM portal so as to connect the OEM portal to the local computing device in an operable manner. The OEM portal is configured to perform a diagnostic evaluation on the vehicle using the local computing device, wherein the local computing device can be controlled by the remote computing device.

[0060] The system may be arranged or configured to perform the method of any of the aforementioned embodiments or examples in the aforementioned aspects of the present invention.

[0061] It should be understood that the vehicle itself does not form part of the system according to the invention.

[0062] The local computing device can be connected to the diagnostic port of the vehicle via a cable. Alternatively, the local computing device can be connected to a network port or a data port of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the local computing device can be connected to an Ethernet port provided in the vehicle. Thus, the local computing device can be directly connected to the vehicle via a cable.

[0063] In other embodiments, the local computing device may be wirelessly connected to the vehicle. In some embodiments, the local computing device may be wirelessly connected to the vehicle via an interface device. The interface device may be directly connected to the vehicle.

[0064] Optionally, the remote computing device includes a remote desktop application configured to establish a remote wireless communication link between the remote computing device and the local computing device.

[0065] Optionally, at least one of the remote computing device and the local computing device is: a laptop, a tablet computer, a personal computer or a mobile phone. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0066] Embodiments of the invention will hereinafter be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements and in which:

[0067] Figure 1 FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a vehicle diagnostic system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0068] Figure 2 The flowchart is a method for performing diagnostic evaluation on a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0069] Figure 3 The flowchart shows a method for repairing a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0070] Figure 4 The flowchart shows a method for repairing a vehicle including replacing a vehicle component according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0071] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0072] Figure 1 A system for performing a diagnostic evaluation of a vehicle 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. It should be understood that the vehicle 10 does not form part of the system according to the present invention. Figure 1 The vehicle 10 is depicted as a car, but it will be appreciated that the vehicle may be any type of vehicle including at least one electronic system, such as a motorcycle, caravan, truck, HGV or other commercial, industrial or agricultural vehicle. In this embodiment, the vehicle 10 includes at least one sensor 22, wherein the at least one detector forms part of a vehicle safety system.

[0073] The system includes a local computing device 12, a remote computing device 14, and an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) portal 16. The local computing device 12 is physically and electrically connected to a diagnostic port, a network port, or a data port of the vehicle 10 using a cable 18. A typical connection port is an OBD2 port, but in some vehicles, the connection port is an Ethernet port, or other diagnostic port, network port, or data port of the vehicle 10.

[0074] The cable 18 enables two-way communication between the local computing device 12 and the vehicle 10. In other embodiments, the local computing device 12 may be wirelessly connected to the vehicle 10 (i.e., without the use of the cable 18). For example, some OEM diagnostic systems utilize an interface device (not shown) such as a vehicle connection interface (VCI) that is plugged into the vehicle 10 and then (e.g., via ) to communicate wirelessly with a local computing device.

[0075] The local computing device 12 and the vehicle 10 are arranged at a first location (e.g., an automobile repair shop or a garage). The remote computing device 14 is arranged at a second location that is geographically remote from the first location. The wireless communication link 13 communicatively couples the remote computing device 14 to the local computing device 12. The wireless communication link 13 enables two-way communication between the local computing device 12 and the remote computing device 14. The wireless communication link 13 enables the remote computing device 14 to control the local computing device 12.

[0076] The OEM portal 16 is an Internet-based remote diagnostic tool. Each vehicle manufacturer typically has its own OEM portal 16. Therefore, the local computing device 12 can access the OEM portal 16 through a web browser (e.g., using the URL of the OEM portal 16). In some embodiments, the OEM portal 16 can be a database hosted by a remote server.

[0077] In order to access the OEM portal 16, the user may be required to enter valid authentication details, such as a username and password. Therefore, access to the OEM portal 16 may be limited to registered (or authorized) users to ensure that only professionals with the correct training and experience are authorized to use the OEM portal 16 to perform diagnostic assessments on the vehicle.

[0078] When the local computing device 12 successfully accesses the OEM portal 16, the OEM portal 16 is operatively connected to the local computing device. Thus, a two-way communication channel 20 may be established between the OEM portal 16 and the local computing device 12.

[0079] The local computing device 12 and the remote computing device 14 can each be a laptop, a tablet computer, a personal computer, a mobile phone or a smart phone, or any other type of computing device. The local computing device 12 and the remote computing device 14 each include at least one processor and a memory. The local computing device 12 and / or the remote computing device 14 can include a processing device, a main memory (e.g., a read-only memory (ROM), a flash memory, a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), such as a synchronous DRAM (SDRAM) or a Rambus DRAM (RDRAM)), etc.), a static memory (e.g., a flash memory, a static random access memory (SRAM), etc.) and an auxiliary memory (e.g., a data storage device 118), which communicate with each other via a bus. The local computing device 12 and / or the remote computing device 14 can include a display screen for displaying data. Optionally, the display screen can be a touch screen.

[0080] Figure 2 A method for performing a diagnostic evaluation of a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. The method may be performed by Figure 1In this embodiment, the method includes connecting the local computing device 12 to the vehicle 10 at a first location (step 100). Step 100 may include connecting the cable 18 to the vehicle diagnostic port of the vehicle 10 and connecting the cable 18 to the local computing device 12.

[0081] Step 102 includes establishing a wireless communication link 13 between remote computing device 14 and local computing device 12, wherein wireless communication link 13 enables remote computing device 14 to control local computing device 12. Remote computing device 14 is provided (or arranged) at a second location remote from the first location.

[0082] Step 102 may include activating (or launching) a remote desktop software application. The remote desktop software application may be installed on the local computing device 12 and the remote computing device 14.

[0083] The local computing device 12 may be operated by a local technician. The remote computing device 14 may be operated by a remote technician (or remote expert, or remote professional). Thus, according to the present invention, the remote expert may initiate and control a vehicle diagnostic evaluation from a location remote from the vehicle itself.

[0084] It should be understood that the order of step 100 and step 102 may be reversed.

[0085] Step 104 includes controlling the local computing device 12 to access the OEM portal 16 website using the remote computing device 14. Thus, at step 104, the remote technician may control the local computing device 12, open a web browser in the local computing device 12, and enter the URL of the desired OEM portal website 16. Alternatively, the remote technician may click on a link on the local computing device 12 to connect to the desired OEM portal website 16. Thus, at step 104, the OEM portal website is operably connected to the local computing device 12.

[0086] At step 106 , the OEM portal 16 performs a diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle 10 using the local computing device 12 . Some portions of the diagnostic evaluation may be automated. Some portions of the diagnostic evaluation may be managed or controlled by a remote expert via a wireless communication link 13 communicating with the local computing device 12 .

[0087] Figure 3 A method for repairing a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figure 2 and Figure 3 Common steps in the present invention have the same reference numerals.

[0088] exist Figure 3In the embodiment of the present invention, there is an additional step 101 between step 100 and step 102. Step 101 includes sending an electronic communication to the remote technician to request the initiation of the wireless communication link 13. The electronic communication can be sent by the local technician to the remote technician. The method of sending the electronic communication can vary. In some embodiments, step 101 can include sending the electronic communication to the remote computing device 14. In some embodiments, step 101 can include sending the electronic communication to a second remote computing device such as a smart phone.

[0089] After receiving the electronic communication, the remote technician at the second location may establish wireless communication between the remote computing device 14 and the local computing device, as described above in connection with step 102 .

[0090] exist Figure 3 , the above step 104 is divided into step 103 and step 105. In step 103, the remote technician controls the local computing device 12 to open the web page of the OEM portal 16. In step 105, when prompted on the local computing device 12, the remote technician enters their authentication details. The authentication details may include a username and password, where the username and password are associated with the remote technician. The OEM portal 16 can verify that the authentication details belong to an authorized (or registered) user. If the authentication details are valid, the OEM portal 16 is connected to the local computing device 12 in an operative manner.

[0091] At step 106, the diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle 10 includes performing a diagnostic scan or diagnostic pre-scan of at least one electronic system in the vehicle 10. The local computing device 12 may output the results of the diagnostic evaluation. Optionally, the diagnostic evaluation may include outputting or identifying at least one fault code associated with at least one electronic system of the vehicle.

[0092] At least one action 108 is taken following the diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle 10 (e.g., to resolve any issues identified in the diagnostic evaluation). The at least one action may be taken by one or more of the local computing device 12, the remote computing device 14, the OEM portal 16, a local technician, or a remote technician. Figure 2 The illustrated diagnostic evaluation process may form part of a method of servicing vehicle 10 .

[0093] Optionally, at least one action 108 may include recalibrating at least one vehicle sensor 22. The recalibration process will depend on the type of sensor 22 and the make and model of the vehicle 10.

[0094] Optionally, at least one action 108 may include investigating (by a remote technician) all or some of the fault codes output from the diagnostic evaluation in order to understand the nature of the vehicle problem that generated the code.

[0095] Optionally, at least one action 108 may include clearing or erasing any fault codes stored in the vehicle's electronic system that have been resolved, or determined to be of low importance or irrelevant.

[0096] Optionally, at least one action 108 may include programming and / or updating at least one software module in the vehicle as needed. For example, a remote technician may instruct a software update to be downloaded from the OEM portal 16 and apply the software update to the vehicle 10 using the local computing device 12 .

[0097] At step 110 , after at least one action has been taken to confirm that all issues have been satisfactorily resolved and repairs are complete, a final diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle is performed.

[0098] After step 110 , the remote technician may retrieve and / or store all relevant diagnostic data, such as fault codes or process complete information, as a record of the actions performed on the vehicle. It should be understood that step 110 may form part of step 108 .

[0099] Figure 4 The method for replacing a vehicle component according to the present invention is shown. In step 200, as combined with Figure 2 and Figure 3 As described in steps 100 to 106 , an initial diagnostic scan of the vehicle is performed.

[0100] Optionally, the remote technician may wish to store any fault code data output from the initial diagnostic scan. Optionally, the remote technician may wish to further investigate (e.g., on a local computing device) one or more fault codes listed after completing the initial diagnostic scan. All fault codes may then be cleared (after resolution) or deleted prior to step 202.

[0101] In step 202, a local technician removes a vehicle component and installs a replacement vehicle component. For example, the vehicle component may be (but is not limited to) a windshield, a body panel, a body part, a bumper, a wheel, a rearview mirror, a vehicle sensor, and / or a portion of an electronic system.

[0102] Optionally, after step 200 is completed, the remote technician (or local technician) may disable the wireless communication link between the remote computing device 14 and the local computing device 12. In other embodiments, the wireless communication link may remain active (or enabled) during step 202. This may depend on the vehicle component being replaced.

[0103] If the wireless communication link is disabled, after completing step 202, the remote technician can repeat steps 102 and 104 (or steps 102, 103, and 105) to reconnect to the local computing device 12 located at the vehicle and access the OEM portal. Optionally, step 202 can include the local technician sending an electronic communication to the remote technician to confirm that the vehicle part has been replaced.

[0104] Step 204 includes recalibrating at least one vehicle sensor, such as (but not limited to) a vehicle camera used in a safety system. The recalibration process 204 may include determining that the position and / or orientation of the at least one sensor is within an acceptable tolerance of at least one predetermined reference point.

[0105] In some embodiments, step 204 may include the local technician setting the target system if static recalibration is required. The target system may enable the OEM portal to determine, via the local computing device, whether at least one sensor is in an acceptable position and / or orientation. This may require communication between the remote technician and the local technician at the vehicle, such as relaying information about the required vehicle-specific target, height, and distance settings, and confirming when the setup is complete.

[0106] Once the correct target (in the case of static recalibration) is positioned in the correct location in front of the vehicle, the remote technician initiates the recalibration process for the at least one sensor via the OEM web portal 16 .

[0107] During the recalibration process 204, a conversation may continue between the remote technical expert and the local technician. For example, if the recalibration requires placing the target system in another secondary location in front of the vehicle. In other examples, the remote expert may send instructions to the local technician regarding adjusting at least one sensor to the correct position and / or orientation. The instructions may be determined based on feedback from the OEM portal.

[0108] In some embodiments, the remote expert can access image data from at least one sensor on the local computing device. The image data can be used to ensure that the position and angle of the sensor are within a given tolerance range specified by the OEM.

[0109] In some cases, the vehicle requires dynamic recalibration, in which the correct function of the safety system is restored through a driving cycle managed by a local technician. In these cases, step 204 includes the remote technical expert initiating the recalibration process on the OEM portal 16 and instructing the local technician to drive the vehicle 10 (with the local computing device 12 still connected to the vehicle). The remote expert monitors the progress of the dynamic recalibration process (which is performed by the OEM portal 16 using the local computing device 12) and electronically notifies the local technician when the dynamic recalibration process is complete.

[0110] The recalibration process 204 may include providing a final position and / or orientation of at least one vehicle sensor to the vehicle safety system.

[0111] Once the entire recalibration process 204 is successfully completed (or unsuccessfully completed), the remote expert can notify the technician and can record any relevant diagnostic data (such as sensor position data stored in the vehicle's memory) as evidence that the vehicle repair and recalibration was successfully completed (or unsuccessfully completed).

[0112] In step 206 , the remote technician performs another diagnostic scan of the vehicle systems using the local computing device 12 and the OEM web portal 16 .

[0113] As with the initial scan, the remote expert can choose to store any fault code data resulting from the further diagnostic scan. The remote technical expert may wish to further investigate any fault codes listed. All fault codes can then be cleared (after resolution) or deleted.

[0114] At step 208, the remote expert disconnects the local computing device 12 from the OEM portal 16 and disconnects the wireless communication link between the local computing device 12 and the remote computing device 14. The local technician disconnects the local computing device 12 from the vehicle 10, and the vehicle 10 can then be returned to the customer.

[0115] Thus, there has been described a system and method for performing a diagnostic evaluation of a vehicle, including connecting a local computing device to the vehicle, establishing a wireless communication link between the remote computing device and the local computing device, wherein the wireless communication link can enable a remote expert using the remote computing device to control the local computing device through a remote desktop application, using the remote computing device to control the local computing device to access an OEM portal and perform a diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle, wherein the diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle is performed by the OEM portal using the local computing device, and wherein the local computing device can be controlled by the remote computing device.

[0116] Although specific embodiments of the invention have been described, it will be appreciated that numerous modifications / additions and / or substitutions are possible within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A method of performing a diagnostic evaluation on a vehicle, include: connecting a local computing device to a vehicle, wherein the local computing device and the vehicle are disposed at a first location; providing a remote computing device at a second location, wherein the second location is remote from the first location; establishing a wireless communication link between the remote computing device and the local computing device so that the remote computing device can control the local computing device; Using the remote computing device, controlling the local computing device to access an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) web portal and operably connecting the OEM web portal to the local computing device; and A diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle is performed, wherein the diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle is performed by the OEM web portal using the local computing device, wherein the local computing device is controllable by the remote computing device.

2. The method according to claim 1, in, Establishing a wireless communication link between the remote computing device and the local computing device includes using a remote desktop application on the remote computing device.

3. The method according to claim 1 or claim 2, in, Controlling the local computing device to access the OEM website portal includes using the local computing device to access the OEM website portal via a wireless communication network.

4. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, in, Accessing the OEM website portal further includes entering authentication details on the local computing device via the wireless communication link, wherein the authentication details are associated with a registered user of the OEM website portal.

5. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, in, Prior to enabling the remote computing device to control the local computing device, the method further includes sending an electronic communication to a remote technician requesting initiation of a remote diagnostic evaluation.

6. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, in, Performing a diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle includes performing a diagnostic scan or a diagnostic pre-scan of at least one electronic system in the vehicle.

7. A method of repairing a vehicle, include: performing a diagnostic evaluation of a vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 6; as well as At least one action is taken in response to a diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle.

8. The method according to claim 7, in, The diagnostic evaluation includes performing a diagnostic scan or a diagnostic pre-scan on at least one electronic system of the vehicle and identifying at least one fault code associated with the at least one electronic system, wherein the at least one action includes: The at least one fault code is investigated to determine a cause of the fault code.

9. The method according to claim 7, in, The diagnostic evaluation includes performing a diagnostic scan or a diagnostic pre-scan on at least one electronic system of the vehicle and identifying at least one fault code associated with the at least one electronic system, wherein the at least one action includes: Determine if each fault code needs to be resolved; When it is determined that a fault code needs to be resolved, resolving the fault code; and When it is determined that the fault code does not need to be resolved, clear or erase the fault code.

10. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 9, in, The at least one action includes programming and / or updating at least one software module in the vehicle.

11. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 10, further comprising: include: retrieving and / or storing data resulting from diagnostic evaluations performed on the vehicle; and / or Retrieving and / or storing data resulting from service performed on the vehicle.

12. The method according to any one of claims 7 to 11, in, The at least one action includes initiating and managing a recalibration process of at least one vehicle sensor.

13. The method according to claim 12, in, The at least one vehicle sensor includes a vehicle camera.

14. A method according to claim 12 or claim 13, in, The recalibration process includes: identifying the location and / or orientation of vehicle sensors; Determine if the vehicle sensors are in the correct position and / or orientation.

15. The method according to claim 14, in, The recalibration process further includes: When it is determined that the vehicle sensor is in the correct position and / or orientation, outputting a confirmation to the local technician at the first location; When it is determined that the vehicle sensor is in an incorrect position and / or orientation, instructions are output to a local technician at the first location to adjust the vehicle sensor to a correct position and / or orientation.

16. The method according to any one of claims 12 to 15, in, The recalibration process further includes: identifying the location and / or orientation of vehicle sensors; A position and / or orientation of a vehicle sensor is provided to at least one component of the vehicle.

17. The method of any one of claims 7 to 16, wherein the diagnostic evaluation performed on the vehicle is a first diagnostic evaluation, in, The method further comprises: A second diagnostic evaluation is performed on the vehicle after taking the at least one action, wherein the second diagnostic evaluation is according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

18. A method of replacing a component of a vehicle, include: removing a component from a vehicle and installing a replacement component in said vehicle; Performing a diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle according to any one of claims 1 to 6, or performing a repair of the vehicle according to any one of claims 7 to 17.

19. A method of replacing a component of a vehicle, include: performing a diagnostic evaluation of a vehicle, wherein the diagnostic evaluation is performed according to any one of claims 1 to 6; removing a component from the vehicle and installing a replacement component in the vehicle; and The vehicle is repaired according to any one of claims 7 to 17.

20. The method according to claim 18 or claim 19, in, The component is a windshield, body panel, body part, bumper, wheel, rearview mirror, vehicle sensor and / or part of an electronic system.

21. A vehicle diagnostic system, include: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) Portal; a local computing device configured to be connected to a vehicle, wherein the local computing device and the vehicle are disposed at a first location; and a remote computing device disposed at a second location, wherein the second location is remote from the first location; in: The remote computing device is coupled to the local computing device via a wireless communication link so that the remote computing device can control the local computing device; The remote computing device is operable to control the local computing device to access the OEM portal website to operably connect the OEM portal website to the local computing device; and The OEM web portal is configured to perform a diagnostic evaluation of the vehicle using the local computing device, wherein the local computing device is controllable by the remote computing device.

22. The vehicle diagnostic system according to claim 21, in, The remote computing device includes a remote desktop application configured to establish a remote wireless communication link between the remote computing device and the local computing device.

23. A vehicle diagnostic system according to claim 21 or claim 22, in, At least one of the remote computing device and the local computing device is: a laptop, a tablet computer, a personal computer, or a mobile phone.

24. A vehicle diagnostic system according to any one of claims 21 to 23, in, The system is configured to perform the method according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

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