Smartphone-Based Remote Vehicle Diagnostic System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle diagnostic communication systems require dedicated hardware installation, specific wireless communication links, and subscription services, limiting their accessibility and usability for ordinary consumers.
Innovation Solution
A smartphone-based remote diagnostic system that acts as a centralized communication hub, allowing vehicle data to be relayed to remote diagnostic centers and emergency services without the need for dedicated hardware or subscription services, using downloadable apps to operate in diagnostic and emergency modes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If dedicated hardware and subscription services are used for vehicle diagnostic communication, then reliability of diagnostic service is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a smartphone as an intermediary device that connects the vehicle diagnostic system to communication networks. The smartphone runs a diagnostic application that interfaces with the vehicle's OBD-II port and relays data through cellular networks to remote diagnostic centers, eliminating the need for dedicated hardware while maintaining service reliability through established mobile network infrastructure
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies universality by utilizing the smartphone's existing multi-functional capabilities (processor, display, keyboard, cellular network interface) to perform diagnostic functions. The smartphone serves multiple purposes: it acts as a communication hub, runs the diagnostic application, displays results, and can make emergency calls, thereby eliminating the need for specialized dedicated hardware
2Reliability
If dedicated hardware installed by trained installers is used, then reliability of diagnostic connection is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by allowing any smartphone user to access diagnostic functions without requiring trained installers. The application automatically connects to the vehicle's OBD-II port when plugged in, retrieves diagnostic data, and communicates with remote centers through the smartphone's existing cellular network capabilities, eliminating the need for professional installation services
Solution Approach 2:
The smartphone serves as a universal intermediary that any user can operate. It mediates between the vehicle diagnostic system and the user by providing a user-friendly interface and automatically handling the technical aspects of data retrieval and network communication, thereby maintaining reliability while significantly improving ease of operation
3Reliability
If dedicated wireless communication link to specific service provider is used, then reliability of data transmission is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by using the smartphone's cellular network interface, which can connect to multiple different carriers and network types. The diagnostic application is designed to work with various network providers and can switch between available networks, thereby maintaining reliable data transmission while significantly improving adaptability to different communication environments
Solution Approach 2:
The system can adapt to different network conditions by changing communication parameters such as network selection, data transmission protocols, and connection modes. The smartphone's operating system and cellular interface automatically adjust to available network parameters, ensuring reliable data transmission while maintaining the ability to operate across different service providers and network types
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a remote vehicle diagnostic system which utilizes a smart phone as a centralized communication hub between a vehicle and several remote resources. The system includes a program downloadable onto the smart phone to program the phone to perform desired functionality. The smart phone app may allow the smart phone to operate in a diagnostic mode and an emergency mode. In the diagnostic mode, the smart phone may relay vehicle data from the vehicle to a remote diagnostic center. The smart phone may also query the user to obtain symptomatic diagnostic information, which may be uploaded to the remote diagnostic center. In the emergency mode, the smart phone may be configured to upload critical information to a remote diagnostic center, or an emergency response center. The emergency mode may be triggered automatically in response to the vehicle being in an accident, or by user actuation.