OBD II Interconnect Device Detecting Blocking Diodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is no convenient way to detect whether a vehicle's OBD II data port includes circuitry that prevents back feeding of power, leading to unreliable power restoration and potential data loss when the battery is disconnected.
Innovation Solution
An interconnect device that detects the presence of a blocking diode in the OBD II data port, alerting the user and allowing an alternate power supply to be connected directly to the battery cables via battery clamps to preserve data, using a microcontroller and LED indicators to ensure safe disconnection and reconnection of the vehicle battery.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a blocking diode is installed in the OBD II data port to prevent power back feeding, then power protection is improved, but the ability to restore power through the OBD port is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection device that connects between the power source and the OBD II port. This device includes a microcontroller that actively tests whether a blocking diode is present by attempting to back feed power and measuring the resulting voltage drop. Based on this detection, the system automatically selects the appropriate power connection method (OBD port or battery terminals), thereby mediating between the conflicting requirements of power protection and power restoration capability
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If an interconnect device is added to detect blocking diodes, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The detection device utilizes the vehicle's own electrical system components to perform the detection function. By using the existing OBD II port, onboard computer, and power distribution network, the microcontroller can self-test for blocking diodes without requiring external specialized equipment. The system leverages the vehicle's inherent electrical characteristics (voltage levels, circuit topology) to accomplish detection, thereby avoiding the need for complex external testing apparatus
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device ensures that vehicle data is preserved by providing a reliable alternative power source, preventing data loss and allowing safe battery service without losing vehicle settings or engine data.
Implementation Method 1
The detection circuit is configured to detect the presence of a blocking diode in the OBD II data port
Implementation Method 2
The microcontroller and LED indicators to ensure safe disconnection and reconnection of the vehicle battery
Data Source
AI summary
An interconnect device is disclosed for detecting whether an vehicle on-board diagnostics (OBD) data port includes a blocking diode or equivalent, that prevents back feeding of power through the OBD data port. If a diode is detected, the interconnect device alerts the user that the power cannot be back fed through the OBD II port connector. In such a condition, an alternate means is used to preserve the data mentioned above. If a diode is not detected by the interconnect device, the interconnect device displays this fact to the user. The interconnect device includes circuitry for detecting and displaying whether a diode is connected in series with a power pin of the OBD II port connector.