Vehicle Electrical Module Interchangeability via OBD2 Part Cross-Reference
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Determining the interchangeability of vehicle components across different makes and models is challenging due to varying part numbering schemes and lack of clear identification of component categories, leading to difficulties in replacing specialized electronic modules.
Innovation Solution
A system and process utilizing an OBD2 scanner, electronic parts catalog, and interchangeability determination server to identify and determine the compatibility of vehicle components by cross-referencing part numbers and physical attributes, enabling easier replacement of components across different vehicle manufacturers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If component interchangeability is determined manually through part number comparison, then identification accuracy may be improved, but time consumption and operational complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical comparison methods with an automated electronic system that uses OBD2 scanners to digitally retrieve and compare component data, eliminating manual labor while maintaining identification accuracy through systematic electronic verification
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an automated determination system as an intermediary between component identification and interchangeability verification, using electronic databases and algorithms to mediate the comparison process, thereby reducing time consumption while preserving accuracy
2Reliability
If specialized electronic modules are used in vehicles, then vehicle performance and functionality are improved, but part availability and ease of repair deteriorate due to lack of standardization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal determination system that can identify interchangeability across different vehicle makes and models, enabling specialized components to be replaced with compatible alternatives from various sources, thereby improving part availability without compromising vehicle performance requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the approach from fixed manufacturer-specific part numbers to a flexible parameter-based comparison system that evaluates multiple attributes (electrical characteristics, physical dimensions, functional specifications) to determine interchangeability, enabling broader part availability while maintaining performance standards
3Measurement precision
If different manufacturers employ different part numbering schemes, then manufacturer-specific identification precision is improved, but cross-manufacturer component interchangeability determination becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent develops a universal determination system that handles multiple manufacturer-specific numbering schemes simultaneously, enabling the system to adapt to different identification systems while maintaining the ability to cross-reference and determine interchangeability across manufacturers
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a standardized electronic database and comparison algorithm as an intermediary layer between different manufacturer numbering schemes, translating and comparing component attributes across different identification systems to determine interchangeability without losing precision in any individual system
4Ease of manufacture
If component categories are not clearly identified on modules, then manufacturing flexibility and cost-effectiveness are improved, but diagnostic speed and repair efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual inspection methods with automated electronic identification using OBD2 scanners that retrieve component category information digitally, eliminating the need for physical labels while improving diagnostic speed through automated data retrieval and analysis
Data Source
AI summary
Briefly, one or more embodiments are direct to a process, system, and article for determining interchangeability of one or more electrical components of a particular motor vehicle. Performance of a diagnostic scan may be initiated of the particular motor vehicle. Results of the diagnostic scan may be received. One or more service part numbers/identifiers for electrical components interrogated during the diagnostic scan may be identified. One or more electronic parts catalogs indicating vehicle manufacturer part numbers/identifiers for electrical components of a set of motor vehicles may be accessed. One or more cross-references between the service part numbers/identifiers for electrical components interrogated during the diagnostic scan and the vehicle manufacturer part numbers/identifiers may be determined. The cross-references may be stored in one or more records of a database.