Vehicle Tracking Device OBD Port Integration
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing vehicle tracking devices face challenges in integration within vehicles and high costs due to the need for protection against exterior environmental conditions.
Innovation Solution
The tracking system integrates with a vehicle's on-board diagnosis port, using a remote unit connected to the port to receive tracking data from an autonomous device, simplifying installation and reducing costs by eliminating the need for external protection, and incorporating features like solar power, accelerometers, and anti-tampering sensors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the tracking device is installed in the exterior of the vehicle, then it can maintain functionality under various conditions, but it requires protection against environmental conditions which increases cost and complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device is extracted from the exterior environment and relocated to the interior of the vehicle, specifically utilizing the OBD port interface. This eliminates the need for environmental protection mechanisms while maintaining tracking functionality, as the interior environment is already protected from external conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The device leverages the existing OBD port infrastructure which serves multiple functions (diagnostics, power supply, data communication). By utilizing this universal interface, the tracking device gains power and communication capabilities without requiring separate power sources or communication antennas, reducing overall system complexity.
2Reliability
If the tracking device is installed in the exterior of the vehicle, then it can maintain functionality, but the installation becomes more complex and costly due to protection requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device is extracted from exterior mounting requirements and repositioned to utilize the OBD port in the vehicle interior. This eliminates the need for specialized exterior mounting brackets, weatherproofing components, and complex installation procedures, thereby simplifying both manufacturing and installation.
3Duration of action of moving object
If the tracking device uses traditional power sources, then it can operate independently, but the cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device utilizes the vehicle's existing electrical system through the OBD port for power supply, eliminating the need for separate battery compartments, charging circuits, and power management components. The vehicle's alternator and battery system already provide the necessary power infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The tracking device leverages the vehicle's own power system to sustain its operation. Rather than requiring an independent power source, the device draws power from the vehicle's electrical infrastructure, allowing the vehicle itself to service the power needs of the tracking system.
4Ease of manufacture
If the tracking device is installed in the passenger compartment, then installation is simplified and cost decreased, but protection against environmental conditions is no longer provided
Solution Approach 1:
The tracking device is extracted from the harsh exterior environment and relocated to the protected interior environment of the vehicle. The OBD port provides access to the interior while the vehicle body already serves as the protective barrier against environmental factors like rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.
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
This solution enhances integration, reduces costs, and improves energy efficiency and security through solar power and sensor integration, while maintaining functionality without hindering vehicle visibility or obstructing the driver's view.
Implementation Method 1
at least a solar photocell adapted to supply the rechargeable battery
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~8
Figure 4~5
AI summary
An autonomous tracking device (1) for a vehicle, comprising: a support member (10) having a front face (11), a GPS module (2) having a GPS antenna (20), a transceiver (3) adapted to wirelessly send tracking data (30) with vehicle locations data to a remote unit, a rechargeable battery (8), a solar photocell array (4) placed on the front face or on the back face of the device, and adapted to supply the rechargeable battery, sticking means (5) extending on a portion of the front face (11) of the support member, adapted to be fixed to a surface of the dashboard or to an inner surface (26) of a windshield (25) of a vehicle.