The Implementation of Real-Time On-line Vehicle Diagnostics and Early Fault Estimation System

This paper developed an intelligent technology for real-time vehicle diagnostics and early fault estimation. The proposed system consists of vehicle on board unit (OBU) and vehicle diagnostics server (VDS). The vehicle OBU and VDS integrate with several subsystems, including vehicle wireless network, global positioning system (GPS), CAN bus, on-board diagnostics (OBD), and online expert system. The vehicle OBU could obtain real-time vehicle operation data, such as speed, engine RPM (Revolution(s) Per Minute), throttle, break, coolant temperature, battery voltage, O2 sensor, fuel trim, instant fuel consumption, and etc., from CAN bus and OBD. These vehicle operation data will be uploaded to the VDS via 3.5G or WiMAX wireless network. Then, the expert system built-in the VDS will analyze these vehicle operation data and perform real-time vehicle diagnostics or fault early warning. Once abnormal conditions have been detected, the VDS will inform deriver or qualified factory of the requirement of vehicle maintenance or repair. Using this system could increase the driving safety as well as decrease the air pollution and unnecessary fuel consumption caused by vehicle faults. This will also benefit our living environment, energy saving, and carbon reduction.