Automotive Battery Tester with Tracking Base Station
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Solution Overview
Problem
Aftermarket service centers face challenges in testing and diagnosing various automotive vehicle electrical systems due to the need for versatile equipment that can withstand harsh conditions and improper usage, with technicians of varying skill levels and high work volumes.
Innovation Solution
A comprehensive automotive test system is developed, including a unitary carrying case with anti-theft features, wireless accessories for tracking, a jump-start capability, memory saver function, and communication hubs for networking, utilizing a rechargeable lithium battery for both testing and jump-starting, and incorporating Kelvin connectors and an OBDII reader for diagnostics.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a comprehensive automotive test system with multiple functions is developed, then versatility and diagnostic capability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple diagnostic functions (battery testing, alternator testing, vehicle communication via OBDII) into a single integrated tester unit. This merging of previously separate testing devices into one unified system provides versatility while managing complexity through integrated design.
Solution Approach 2:
The tester is designed with universal applicability across different vehicle types and electrical systems. It can test various battery chemistries, communicate with multiple vehicle protocols, and perform different diagnostic functions, making it adaptable to diverse automotive applications without requiring multiple specialized devices.
2Measurement precision
If tracking circuitry and base station are implemented, then accessory tracking accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual tracking methods with electronic tracking circuitry that uses RFID or similar wireless technology. The base station automatically detects and tracks accessories through electromagnetic fields, eliminating the need for manual logging or mechanical tracking systems while providing precise location and status information.
3Reliability
If a unitary carrying case with anti-theft features is used, then equipment security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The carrying case integrates multiple functions: physical protection for the tester and accessories, anti-theft tracking capabilities, and organized storage compartments. By combining security features with the carrying case rather than adding separate security systems, the patent enhances protection while minimizing additional complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A maintenance system for use with an electrical system of an automotive vehicle includes an electronic battery tester configured to test a battery of the automotive vehicle. The electronic battery tester includes tracking circuitry carried therein. A base station is configured to receive the electronic battery tester and includes a microprocessor configured to detect positioning of the electronic battery tester in the base station using the battery tester tracking circuitry.