Modular Vehicle Diagnostic Tool with Docking Station
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing diagnostic and programming tools for vehicles are large, cumbersome, and not designed for permanent installation within a vehicle, lacking the ability to connect to and collect data from peripheral devices, and are primarily suited for technicians rather than car owners or enthusiasts.
Innovation Solution
A compact, user-configurable diagnostic and programming module that can be docked with a vehicle's control modules for bi-directional communication, allowing for data acquisition, display, and programming, with features like customizable gauge displays, wireless connectivity, and automatic skin changes based on ambient conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If existing diagnostic tools are used, then vehicle diagnostics can be performed, but the tools are large and cumbersome and not designed for permanent installation
Solution Approach 1:
The diagnostic tool is divided into a handheld module and a separate docking station. The module contains the essential diagnostic functions and can be temporarily housed in the dock during charging or non-use, effectively segmenting the system into a portable portion and a stationary support structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The handheld diagnostic module is designed to fit within or alongside the docking station when not in use. The module can be physically nested in the dock during charging or storage, creating a compact integrated unit that eliminates the need for a separate large tool case.
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing diagnostic tools are used, then basic diagnostics are available, but they lack the ability to connect to and collect data from peripheral devices
Solution Approach 1:
The docking station provides universal connectivity with multiple standard interfaces including Bluetooth, WiFi, and USB Type-C, enabling the diagnostic module to communicate with various peripheral devices such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, and vehicle systems. This multi-functional interface approach allows data collection from diverse sources without requiring multiple specialized tools.
3Ease of operation
If existing diagnostic tools are used, then technicians can perform diagnostics, but they are not designed for use by car owners or enthusiasts
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces a smartphone or tablet as an intermediary interface between the diagnostic module and the user. The mobile device runs user-friendly software applications that translate complex diagnostic data into easy-to-understand visualizations, while the handheld module handles the technical communication with vehicle systems. This intermediary layer makes the tool accessible to non-technical users.
Solution Approach 2:
The diagnostic module automatically connects to the docking station for charging and data synchronization without user intervention. The system self-manages its own updates, diagnostics, and communication protocols, freeing the user from technical complexity while maintaining full functionality.
4Ease of operation
If a modular design is implemented, then ease of installation and portability are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The handheld module and docking station are merged into a single integrated system through wireless and wired communication protocols. The dock combines charging functionality, data storage, and communication interfaces in one unit, while the handheld module contains all essential diagnostic functions. This merging approach simplifies the overall system architecture despite the modular physical separation.
Data Source
AI summary
A data acquisition, data display, vehicle computer interface and programming tool in the form of a module. The module of the present invention can be set into a dock, which is connected to the vehicle's control modules. The vehicle can be reprogrammed to accept vehicle manufacture's updates and/or performance updates. Once the reprogramming is finished the module is removed from the dock and is be placed into/onto the vehicle's dashboard or other location readily viewable by the vehicle operator to report one or more of the vehicle's operating parameters. The present invention is readily connectable to a vehicle's data link for bi-directional communication with the various control modules on the vehicle.