Reading devices and methods

Abstract

The invention relates to a readout device (10) for reading data from a data storage device (12a) of a motor vehicle (12), in which an on-board diagnostic connector (14) for insertion into a designated on-board diagnostic socket (16) of the motor vehicle (12) is designed as part (18a) of a housing (18) of the readout device (10), and the readout device (10) is connectable to a vehicle communication interface (26) by means of at least one connector (20), and the vehicle communication interface (26) is connectable to an external electronic computing device (22), wherein the readout device (10) has an ID transmitter (24) which communicates with a safety device (12b) of the motor vehicle (12) when the on-board diagnostic connector (14) is inserted into the on-board diagnostic socket. (16) can be coupled for the transmission of an identification file (ID). Furthermore, the invention relates to a further reading device (10) and a method.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a reading device for reading data from a data memory of a motor vehicle according to the preamble of patent claim 1. Furthermore, the invention relates to a reading device and a method.

[0002] DE 10 2010 022 651 A1 already discloses a readout device for reading data from a data storage device of a motor vehicle. An on-board diagnostic connector for plugging into a designated on-board diagnostic socket of the motor vehicle is provided as part of an outer contour of the readout device. Furthermore, the readout device can be connected to an external additional module via at least one plug connection.

[0003] On-board diagnostics (OBD) is a system in modern vehicles designed to monitor the vehicle's condition and performance and detect any problems or error codes. Some diagnostic procedures require the vehicle to be running or even running.

[0004] The object of the invention is to provide a further development for more user-friendly on-board diagnostic processes and / or devices, by which manual steps and paths are reduced.

[0005] This object is achieved by means of a readout device having the features of patent claim 1, as well as by means of a further embodiment of the readout device and by means of a method according to the invention. Advantageous embodiments of the readout device according to the invention are to be regarded as advantageous embodiments of the further embodiment and of the method according to the invention, wherein the means of the readout devices are used to carry out the method steps.

[0006] Furthermore, advantageous developments of the invention are described by the dependent patent claims, the following description and the figures.

[0007] A first aspect of the invention relates to a readout device for reading data from a data storage device of a motor vehicle, in which an on-board diagnostic connector for plugging into a designated on-board diagnostic socket of the motor vehicle is formed as part of a housing of the readout device. The readout device can be connected to a vehicle communication interface by means of at least one plug connection, and the vehicle communication interface can in turn be coupled, in particular wirelessly, to an external electronic computing device. For example, the vehicle communication interface can be implemented using a data transmission module for wireless / cordless data exchange with the external electronic computing device. Thus, wireless / cordless data exchange with the external electronic computing device is to be enabled by implementing the additional data transmission module.This wireless transmission option provides increased flexibility and ease of use. It eliminates the need for physical connections. The external electronic computing device can thus communicate wirelessly with the readout device, improving the entire diagnostic data transmission process.

[0008] To achieve the object of the invention, it is provided that the reading device has a particularly internal ID transmitter device that can be coupled to a security device of the motor vehicle when the on-board diagnostic connector is plugged into the on-board diagnostic socket for transmitting an identification file. This ID transmitter device is designed to be connected to a security device of the motor vehicle as soon as the on-board diagnostic connector is plugged into the corresponding on-board diagnostic socket. This enables the transmission of an identification file. The aim here is to replace a conventional ID transmitter or key. This avoids the user having to physically insert an ID transmitter or key, which is not only more practical but also increases user-friendliness.Furthermore, the need to start the vehicle to enable identification and diagnosis is eliminated. This simplifies the overall process and, in particular, leads to a simpler and more efficient execution of on-board diagnostic procedures.

[0009] Furthermore, the reading device also has a battery connection cable, which is designed to be connected to an external power supply, for example, to the battery terminals of the motor vehicle or vehicle being read. For example, a connection with crocodile clips could be provided to enable power supply from an external battery. This external battery is not present or located in the motor vehicle, which means that the motor vehicle does not need to be started / ignited to perform the diagnosis.

[0010] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the coupling with the security device can be carried out wirelessly using a data transmission module of the ID transmitter device. This wireless connection option achieves an additional level of user-friendliness. The conventional need for physical connections or plugging processes is eliminated, further simplifying the handling of the reading device.

[0011] In another advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is provided that the plug connection is designed as a USB type with a USB version for connection to the vehicle communication interface. The use of the USB standard enables a particularly comprehensive range of applications, since numerous electronic devices support this standard. This also enables integration and connection between the readout device and other electronic computing devices. The selection of a specific USB version also enables a predetermined transmission speed and particularly high data quality, thereby further improving the efficiency of the diagnostic processes. In another advantageous embodiment of the invention, it is provided that an adapter can be plugged into the on-board diagnostic connector for plugging in other on-board connectors of a different design on their respective rear sides.This functionality enables further and diverse application possibilities and increases the flexibility of the reader, especially with regard to future new connectors. By adding the adapter, various types of on-board connectors can be easily connected to the reader without requiring any structural changes to the device itself. This simplifies the use of the reader in different vehicle types and situations, as well as further developments.

[0012] In another advantageous embodiment of the invention, a security device is provided by which a user can be identified. This security device aims to ensure that the user—for example, an authorized employee—has the necessary authorizations and access rights to access the vehicle's data. One possible approach here could be the integration of a coding or authentication system. This security measure ensures that only authorized persons can use the reading device and access the vehicle data, thereby increasing confidentiality in particular.

[0013] In another advantageous embodiment of the invention, a security device is provided through which an authorization can be confirmed by a vehicle owner or a third party. This authorization allows the vehicle owner or an authorized entity to explicitly confirm that the recording of vehicle data and the performance of on-board diagnostics are permitted. This ensures that unauthorized access is blocked and only authorized persons have control over the diagnostic processes. This strengthens data security and control over access to vehicle information.

[0014] A second aspect of the invention relates to a readout device for reading data from a data memory of a motor vehicle, in which an adapter for plugging an on-board diagnostic connector into a designated on-board diagnostic socket of the motor vehicle is formed as part of a housing of the readout device, and the readout device can be connected to a vehicle communication interface by means of at least one plug connection, and the vehicle communication interface can be coupled to an external electronic computing device. A key difference from the first aspect and the prior art is that the adapter is attached to the housing, and the on-board diagnostic connector is plugged into the adapter. This has the advantage that the adapter is always present, and the technical provision or manufacture of the readout device is simplified.Modifications to the housing are no longer necessary when manufacturing new on-board sockets for different vehicle models. Only the on-board diagnostic connector needs to be adapted to fit the different socket types. This increases flexibility and cost-effectiveness in the manufacture and adaptation of the readout device.

[0015] In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the readout device comprises an ID transmitter device that can be coupled to a security device of the motor vehicle for transmitting an ID when the on-board diagnostic connector is inserted into the on-board diagnostic socket. Thus, the new embodiment is intended to be adapted to the first aspect.

[0016] A third aspect of the invention relates to a method for operating a readout device according to the first and / or second aspect, in which, in order to read out data from a data memory of a motor vehicle, an on-board diagnostic plug designed as part of a housing of the readout device is plugged into an on-board diagnostic socket provided for this purpose in the motor vehicle, and the readout device is connected to a vehicle communication interface and the vehicle communication interface by means of a plug connection, and the vehicle communication interface is coupled to an external electronic computing device, wherein an ID transmitter device of the readout device is coupled to a security device of the motor vehicle when the on-board diagnostic plug is plugged into the on-board diagnostic socket for transmitting an identification file.This method enables an efficient and secure method for performing on-board diagnostic processes. The integration of the ID transmitter device and the security device helps prevent unauthorized access to the vehicle data and, at the same time, enables improved identification and data transmission. Further advantages, features, and details of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred exemplary embodiments and from the drawings. The features and combinations of features mentioned above in the description, as well as the features and combinations of features mentioned below in the description of the figures and / or shown alone in the single figure, can be used not only in the respective specified combination, but also in other combinations or on their own, without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0017] The only figure shows a perspective view of a reading device according to the invention.

[0018] The figure shows a perspective view of a readout device 10 designed to read data from a data memory 12a of a motor vehicle 12. This readout device 10 is designed for the application of on-board diagnostics. The on-board diagnostics connector 14, which is required to connect the readout device 10 to the motor vehicle 12, was designed as a part 18a of the housing 18 of the readout device 10. The on-board diagnostics connector 14 for plugging into a designated on-board diagnostics socket 16 of the motor vehicle 12 is designed as a part 18a of a housing 18 of the readout device 10. This enables seamless insertion of the on-board diagnostic connector 14 into the designated on-board diagnostic socket 16 of the motor vehicle 12.

[0019] The readout device 10 can be connected to a vehicle communication interface 26 by means of at least one plug connection 20, and the vehicle communication interface 26 can be coupled, in particular wirelessly, to an external electronic computing device 22. The provided vehicle communication interface 26 is provided by an integrated data transmission module, which allows wireless data exchange with the external electronic computing device 22 in order to enable the actual diagnostic processes. This wireless nature facilitates the transmission of information and data and contributes to flexibility. The readout device 10 is thus connected to the motor vehicle 12 and forwards or transmits all diagnostic data to the external electronic computing device 22 via the vehicle communication interface 26.This eliminates the need for cable connections, significantly increasing flexibility. The external electronic computing device 22 can now be used regardless of the location of the motor vehicle 12, as it no longer needs to be physically connected to the vehicle 12. From here, transmission can occur, for example, via near-field communication (NFC), radio frequency identification (RFID), Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, mobile communications, or other methods.

[0020] Furthermore, the reading device 10 comprises a battery connection cable 17, which is designed to connect an external power supply to, for example, the battery terminals of a car battery 31 of the motor vehicle or vehicle to be read, thereby providing an external power supply. For example, a connection with crocodile clips 30 could be provided to enable a power supply from the car battery 31 or, for example, an external battery 32. This external battery 32 is not present or located in the motor vehicle, which means that the motor vehicle does not need to be started / ignited to perform the diagnosis.

[0021] Another possibility is to equip the battery connection cable 17 with a cigarette lighter plug 34, which can be connected to the internal 12V vehicle socket. For example, a corresponding cigarette lighter plug 34 can be arranged on the battery connection cable 17, which can be plugged into a cigarette lighter socket 36. This allows for easy connection and use of the cigarette lighter 36 as the vehicle socket and thus as an external power source for the reading device 10.

[0022] These various external power supply options provide increased flexibility in the power supply to the readout device 10, which is particularly useful for performing diagnostic procedures without having to start the vehicle and / or discharging the internal vehicle battery.

[0023] Furthermore, the reading device 10 has an ID transmitter device 24, which can be coupled to a security device 12b of the motor vehicle 12 when the on-board diagnostic connector 14 is plugged into the on-board diagnostic socket 16 for transmitting an identification file ID. This means that the reading device 10 has its own ID transmitter or short replacement, namely the ID transmitter device 24, which has a basic function of unlocking the motor vehicle 12. When the on-board diagnostic connector 14 is plugged into the on-board diagnostic socket 16, the ID transmitter device 24 can establish an intelligent connection with a security device 12b of the motor vehicle 12. This capability allows the reading device 10 to transmit an identification file (ID) to the security device 12b.This function not only enables an encrypted connection between the reading device 10 and the motor vehicle 12, but also enables individual identification of the reading device 10 for the security device 12b of the motor vehicle 12.

[0024] A special feature of this reading device 10 is that the coupling with the security device 12b is carried out wirelessly using a data transmission module 24a of the ID transmitter device 24. This means that the transmission of the identification data takes place without a physical connection between the reading device 10 and the motor vehicle 12, as with an ID transmitter or key, for example via near-field communication (NFC), radio frequency identification (RFID), Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, mobile communications, or others.

[0025] In other words, the ID transmitter device 24 assumes the function of an ID transmitter or key when the on-board diagnostic connector 14 is plugged into the on-board diagnostic socket 16. This means that the ID transmitter device 24 assumes the role of a traditional physical key or ID transmitter by communicating with the motor vehicle 12 and transmitting an identification file (ID). For some diagnostic procedures, it is necessary for the motor vehicle 12 to be ignited or even running. This process allows the ID transmitter device 24 to securely connect to the motor vehicle 12 and transmit the necessary identification information without having to insert a physical key or ID transmitter, or without having to start the motor vehicle 12, or without having to perform an ignition cycle. This also eliminates the need for a vehicle power supply.

[0026] The connector 20, which is responsible for connecting the readout device 10 to a vehicle communication interface, can be implemented as a USB Type A to C, or even Mini or Micro. This USB connector corresponds to a specific USB version 1.0 to 4, enabling fast and reliable data transmission.

[0027] Furthermore, an adapter 15 can be plugged into the on-board diagnostic connector 14. This adapter 15 is designed to accommodate other on-board diagnostic connectors 14a of various designs on their respective rear sides. This means that the readout device 10 is adaptable and compatible with various vehicle types.

[0028] In terms of security, the readout device 10 has a security device 28 that enables the user of the readout device 10 to be uniquely identified. This allows users to perform diagnostics while simultaneously proving their identity in order to gain access to the vehicle data of the motor vehicle 12. This security feature ensures that only authorized persons can access the diagnostic functions and contributes to the confidentiality and integrity of the vehicle data. In addition, this security device 28 enables confirmation of release by the vehicle owner or a third party. This creates an additional level of security and control over data access. For example, this security device 28 can be integrated into the electronic computing device 22.

[0029] In summary, the reading device 10 shown in Fig. offers a variety of functions and features that were specifically developed for the requirements of vehicle diagnostics.

[0030] In an additional embodiment of the readout device 10, provision is made for the integration of an adapter 15. This adapter 15 is designed to accommodate an on-board diagnostic connector 14, which in turn is plugged into the special on-board diagnostic socket 16 of the motor vehicle 12. The adapter 15 forms a part 18a of the housing 18 of the readout device 10. This arrangement enables seamless insertion of the on-board diagnostic connector 14 into the adapter 15, which in turn can be firmly plugged into the on-board diagnostic socket 16 of the motor vehicle 12. Furthermore, both an adapter 15 and an on-board diagnostic connector 14 could be formed on the housing 18.

[0031] Here, too, the readout device 10 can be connected to the external electronic computing device 22 via at least one plug connection 20 or wirelessly. This connection creates a direct communication bridge between the readout device 10 and the electronic computing device 22, enabling the diagnostic processes.

[0032] Finally, it is provided that the readout device 10 is operated by a method in which, in order to read out data from a data memory 12a of the motor vehicle 12, the on-board diagnostic connector 14, formed as part 18a of the housing 18 of the readout device 10, is plugged into a dedicated on-board diagnostic socket 16 of the motor vehicle 12. The readout device 10 is then connected to the external electronic computing device 22 by means of a plug connection 20, wherein an ID transmitter device 24 of the readout device 10 is coupled to the security device 12b of the motor vehicle 12 when the on-board diagnostic connector 14 is plugged into the on-board diagnostic socket 16 for transmitting an identification file ID. Furthermore, the connection to the electronic computing device 22 can also be established wirelessly.

[0033] In summary, the invention describes an OBD adapter cable or the reading device 10 for reading all control units of the motor vehicle 12 without internal vehicle voltage supply and / or vehicle key. List of reference symbols 10 Reading device 12 motor vehicles 12a Data storage 12b Safety device 14 On-board diagnostic connector 14a other on-board diagnostic connectors 15 adapters 16 On-board diagnostic socket 17 Battery connection cable 18 housings Part 18a 20 plug connection 22 electronic computing device 24 ID transmitter device 24a Data transmission module 26 Vehicle communication interface 28 Safety device 30 crocodile clips 31 Car battery 32 Battery 34 cigarette lighter plugs 36 cigarette lighters QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 10 2010 022 651 A1

[0002]

Claims

[1] Reading device (10) for reading data from a data memory (12a) of a motor vehicle (12), in which an on-board diagnostic plug (14) for plugging into a designated on-board diagnostic socket (16) of the motor vehicle (12) is formed as part (18a) of a housing (18) of the reading device (10), and the reading device (10) can be connected to a vehicle communication interface (26) by means of at least one plug connection (20), and the vehicle communication interface (26) can be coupled to an external electronic computing device (22), characterized by that the reading device (10) has an ID transmitter device (24) which can be coupled to a security device (12b) of the motor vehicle (12) when the on-board diagnostic plug (14) is plugged into the on-board diagnostic socket (16) for transmitting an identification file (ID). [2] Reading device (10) according to claim 1, characterized bythat the coupling with the security device (12b) can be carried out wirelessly by means of a data transmission module (24a) of the ID transmitter device (24). [3] Reading device (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by that the plug connection (20) is designed as a USB type with a USB version. [4] Reading device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that an adapter (15) for plugging in other on-board diagnostic connectors (14a) of a different design can be plugged into the on-board diagnostic connector (14) on their respective rear sides. [5] Reading device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that a security device (28) is arranged by which a user can be identified. [6] Reading device (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat a safety device (28) is arranged, by means of which a release can be confirmed by a motor vehicle owner or a third entity. [7] Read-out device (10) for reading out data from a data memory (12a) of a motor vehicle (12), in which an adapter (15) for plugging in an on-board diagnostic plug (14) for plugging into an on-board diagnostic socket (16) provided for this purpose of the motor vehicle (12) is designed as part (18a) of a housing (18) of the read-out device (10), and the read-out device (10) can be connected to a vehicle communication interface (26) by means of at least one plug connection (20), and the vehicle communication interface (26) can be coupled to an external electronic computing device (22). [8] Reading device (10) according to claim 7, characterized bythat the reading device (10) has an ID transmitter device (24) which can be coupled to a security device (12b) of the motor vehicle (12) when the on-board diagnostic plug (14) is plugged into the on-board diagnostic socket (16) for transmitting an ID. [9] Method for operating a read-out device (10) according to claims 1 to 7, in which, in order to read out data from a data memory (12a) of a motor vehicle (12), an on-board diagnostic plug (14) formed as part (18a) of a housing (18) of the read-out device (10) is plugged into an on-board diagnostic socket (16) of the motor vehicle (12) provided for this purpose, and the read-out device (20) is connected to a vehicle communication interface (26) by means of a plug connection (20), and the vehicle communication interface (26) is coupled to an external electronic computing device (22), wherein an ID transmitter device (24) of the read-out device (10) is connected to a security device (12b) of the motor vehicle (12) when the on-board diagnostic plug (14) is plugged into the On-board diagnostic socket (16) for transmitting an identification file (ID).

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