US 8,135,509 B1 · Vehicle diagnostic tool—utilizing fuel trim data

Abstract

An analysis tool which extracts all the available parameter identifications (i.e. PIDS) from a vehicle's power train control module for diagnostic decisions. This is done by checking these PIDS and other information (e.g., calculated PIDS, Break Points, charts and algorithms) in three states; key on engine off, key on engine cranking, key on engine running. In all three modes the tool is comparing the live data from PIDS and voltage to the other information (e.g, Break Points). If any of this data are outside the programmed values a flag is assigned to the failure or control problem. The relationship between a particular PID and its associated preprogrammed value(s) may be indicated by a light. The depth of the problem (if any) is conveyed by the color of the light. Also included are tests/charts for fuel trim, engine volumetric efficiency, simulated injector, power, catalyst efficiency, and engine coolant range.

Claims26

Dependent claims

A method of providing information on the operating condition of a Power Plant utilizing fuel trim data;

the Power Plant including an engine and a powertrain control module;
the method utilizing instrumentation including a microprocessor, and a chart of load on the engine (hereinafter “engine load(s)”) vs. the speed of the engine (hereinafter “engine speed(s)”);
the chart being divided into a number of cells, each cell representing a range of engine loads vs. engine speeds wherein no two cells have both the same range of engine loads and the same range of engine speeds;
the microprocessor being programmed to extract parameter identification data (hereinafter “PID data”) from the powertrain control module;
the microprocessor being further programmed to determine engine speed;
the method including the steps of:
a. acquiring PID data with the instrumentation, including PID data that provides information on the engine load (hereinafter “engine load PID data”) and fuel trim PID data, from the powertrain control module;
b. changing both the engine speed and the engine load;
c. determining, with the microprocessor, engine speed as the engine speed is changing;
and
d. assigning fuel trim PID data as such data is acquired to different ones of the cells as both the engine speed and engine load change.

8 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Vehicle diagnostic tool—utilizing fuel trim data

Life of this patent

Vehicle diagnostic tool—utilizing fuel trim data

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims26