U.S. patent application number 13/797088 was filed with the patent office on 2014-09-18 for alternator and starter tester with capacitive element.
The applicant listed for this patent is SERVICE SOLUTIONS U.S. LLC. Invention is credited to Manokar Chinnadurai, Garrett Miller.
Application Number | 20140277907 13/797088 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 51400081 |
Filed Date | 2014-09-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20140277907 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Chinnadurai; Manokar ; et
al. |
September 18, 2014 |
ALTERNATOR AND STARTER TESTER WITH CAPACITIVE ELEMENT
Abstract
A diagnostic system configured to test the performance of a
vehicle component may include a processor configured to process
test information from the vehicle component and control the vehicle
component to be tested. The system may also include a memory
configured to store the test information of the vehicle component
and software that operates the vehicle component and a capacitive
element configured to supply power to perform the testing of the
vehicle component, wherein the memory and the capacitive element
are in communication with the processor.
Inventors: |
Chinnadurai; Manokar;
(Owatonna, MN) ; Miller; Garrett; (Owatonna,
MN) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
SERVICE SOLUTIONS U.S. LLC |
Warren |
MI |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
51400081 |
Appl. No.: |
13/797088 |
Filed: |
March 12, 2013 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
701/29.6 ;
701/32.8; 701/33.4 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G01R 31/34 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
701/29.6 ;
701/33.4; 701/32.8 |
International
Class: |
G01R 31/34 20060101
G01R031/34 |
Claims
1. A diagnostic system configured to testing a performance of a
vehicle component, the diagnostic tool comprising: a processor
configured to process test information from the vehicle component
and control the vehicle component to be tested; a memory configured
to store the test information of the vehicle component and software
that operates the vehicle component; and a capacitive element
configured to supply power to perform the testing of the vehicle
component, wherein the memory and the capacitive element are in
communication with the processor.
2. The diagnostic tool of claim 1, wherein the vehicle component is
a starter motor component and the processor is also configured to
control the starter motor and process starter motor
information.
3. The diagnostic tool of claim 1, wherein the vehicle component is
an alternator and the processor is also configured to control the
alternator and process alternator information.
4. The diagnostic tool of claim 1, further comprising a charging
module that controls a timing and an amount of charge provided to
the capacitive element.
5. The diagnostic tool of claim 4, wherein the charging module
charges the capacitive element with a constant voltage potential
and/or current.
6. The diagnostic tool of claim 4, wherein the charging module
charges the capacitive element with a variable voltage potential
and/or current.
7. The diagnostic tool of claim 4, wherein the charging module
charges the capacitive element based at least in part on an amount
of power required to perform the testing of the vehicle
component.
8. The diagnostic tool of claim 1, further comprising an interface
module configured to receive identification information of a
component of the vehicle to be tested.
9. The diagnostic tool of claim 8, wherein the interface module is
configured to receive the identification information from a barcode
reader, a RFID reader or a point-of-sale (POS).
10. The diagnostic tool of claim 1, wherein the test information
includes at least one of the following: test specification, test
values, test results, data, time, employee, location and weather
condition.
11. The diagnostic tool of claim 1, wherein the capacitive element
comprises a plurality of capacitive elements.
12. A method of testing of a vehicle component, comprising the
steps of: receiving, via an input device, a selection of the
vehicle component for the testing; identifying, via an interface
module, information associated with the vehicle component;
charging, via a charging module, a capacitive element based at
least in part on information associated with the vehicle component
in order to perform the testing of the vehicle component.
13. The method of claim 12, wherein identifying information
associated with the vehicle component comprises identifying a power
level at which the vehicle component should be tested at.
14. The method of claim 12, wherein charging the capacitive element
comprises charging the capacitive element before performing the
testing of the vehicle component.
15. The method of claim 12, wherein charging the capacitive element
comprises charging the capacitive element during the testing of the
vehicle component.
16. The method of claim 12, further comprising starting the testing
of the vehicle component using the capacitive element.
17. The method of claim 12, further comprising coupling a power
source to perform the testing of the vehicle component.
18. The method of claim 17, wherein the power source is coupled
when an output voltage potential and/or current falls to a testing
threshold power level.
19. The method of claim 12, further comprising charging the
capacitive element after completion of the testing of the vehicle
component.
20. A diagnostic system for testing a performance of a vehicle
component, comprising: an electrical connection for coupling the
diagnostic tool to an external power source; a power supply
circuitry for processing power received from the external power
source; a test and control circuitry for controlling the testing of
the vehicle component; and a capacitive element for receiving
processed power from the power supply circuitry to power the
testing of the vehicle component.
Description
FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0001] The present invention pertains to the field of testing
vehicle motor rotary accessory devices. More particularly, the
present invention relates to devices for testing alternators or
starter motors wherein the devices include a capacitive
element.
BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0002] It is well known in the vehicle industry that certain rotary
accessory devices are often used in connection with vehicle motors.
Two such accessory devices are alternators and starter motors.
Alternators are used in connection with an engine and are typically
belt driven by the engine. Alternators have internal components,
which when rotated supply electrical power to a vehicle battery.
Alternators are typically removable but rigidly mounted via a
bracket to the engine block or the chassis of the vehicle. In many
cases, where a standard type of alternating mounting arrangement is
used, the alternator has "ears" with holes that are mounted onto a
post or bolt attached to the vehicle. This permits pivoting of the
alternator so that the alternator can be pivoted around the post
against the belt tension in order to install and remove belts, and
provide a suitable tension when the belt is installed.
[0003] Starter motors are electrical motors, which are typically
removable but rigidly mounted to an engine or transmission casing.
The starter motor has an electrically driven pinion gear extending
from the starter motor that engages a component (typically gears on
the flywheel of the engine) in order to be able to rotate the
crankshaft of the engine to start it. There is a wide range of
attachment mechanisms for attaching the described starter
motor.
[0004] Conventional alternator and starter tester may test
alternators and/or starter motors using a direct current (DC) power
source. For example, the DC power source may be used to power the
starter motor and bias the alternator during a testing process. The
DC power source may determine the capability of an alternator and
starter tester. Oftentimes, the alternator and starter tester
requires high power in order to achieve desired accuracy when
testing the starter motor or the alternator. The high power
required leads to expensive and bulky circuit components which in
turn lead to higher cost, size and weight for the alternator and
starter tester. Additionally, the high power demand required by the
prior art systems resulted in greater power consumption and
operating costs. Thus, it would be desirable to have an alternator
or starter tester with high accuracy with decreased cost, size and
weight.
SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE
[0005] The foregoing needs are met, to a great extent, by the
present disclosure, wherein in one aspect, an apparatus is provided
that in some embodiments an alternator and starter motor tester
includes a capacitive element. The capacitive elements may provide
an additional source of power that may allow for the use of smaller
and less costly circuit components in the starter motor tester. The
smaller and less costly circuit components may have reduced power
consumption. Finally, the capacitive elements may be sufficiently
charged by the smaller circuit components when the starter motor
tester is not being utilized.
[0006] In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure,
a diagnostic system configured to test a performance of a vehicle
component may include a processor configured to process test
information from the vehicle component and control the vehicle
component to be tested. The diagnostic system may also include a
memory configured to store the test information of the vehicle
component and software that operates the vehicle component and a
capacitive element configured to supply power to perform the
testing of the vehicle component, wherein the memory and the
capacitive element are in communication with the processor.
[0007] In accordance with another embodiment of the present
disclosure, a method of testing of a vehicle component may include
receiving, via an input device, a selection of the vehicle
component for the testing and identifying, via an interface module,
information associated with the vehicle component. The method may
also include charging, via a charging module, a capacitive element
based at least in part on the information associated with the
vehicle component in order to perform the testing of the vehicle
component.
[0008] In accordance with yet another embodiment of the present
disclosure is a diagnostic system configured to test a performance
of a vehicle component may include an electrical connection for
coupling the diagnostic tool to an external power source and a
power supply circuitry for processing power received from the
external power source. The diagnostic system may also include a
test and control circuitry for controlling the testing of the
vehicle component and a capacitive element for receiving processed
power from the power supply circuitry to power the testing of the
vehicle component.
[0009] There has thus been outlined, rather broadly, certain
embodiments of the disclosure in order that the detailed
description herein may be better understood, and in order that the
present contribution to the art may be better appreciated. There
are, of course, additional embodiments of the present disclosure
that will be described below and which will form the subject matter
of the claims appended hereto.
[0010] In this respect, before explaining at least one embodiment
of the present disclosure in detail, it is to be understood that
the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the
details of construction and to the arrangements of the components
set forth in the following description or illustrated in the
drawings. The present disclosure is capable of embodiments in
addition to those described and of being practiced and carried out
in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology
and terminology employed herein, as well as the abstract, are for
the purpose of description and should not be regarded as
limiting.
[0011] As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the
conception upon which this disclosure is based may readily be
utilized as a basis for the designing of other structures, methods
and systems for carrying out the several purposes of the present
disclosure. It is important, therefore, that the claims be regarded
as including such equivalent constructions insofar as they do not
depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an alternator and starter
motor tester according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention.
[0013] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the alternator and starter
motor tester according to an exemplary embodiment of the present
invention.
[0014] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the main components of the
alternator and starter motor tester according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention.
[0015] FIG. 4 illustrates a method for charging an alternator and
starter motor tester according to an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention.
[0016] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the peripheral and remote
connections of the alternator and starter motor tester according to
an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.
[0017] FIG. 6 illustrates a circuit schematic diagram of the
alternator and starter motor tester according to an exemplary
embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0018] The present invention will now be described with reference
to the drawing figures, in which like reference numerals refer to
like parts throughout. An embodiment in accordance with the present
invention provides an alternator and starter motor tester for
holding and testing an alternator or starter motor. The alternator
and starter motor tester includes a protective hood or cover, a
controller connecting an LCD touch-screen, a barcode connector, USB
host and USB function connectors, an Ethernet connector, and a
flash memory connector.
[0019] An embodiment of the testing apparatus is illustrated in
FIG. 1. FIG. 1 illustrates an alternator and starter motor tester
100 ("tester") including a housing 112 and a base plate (or
chassis) 114. The housing 112 surrounds and supports various
operative components of the tester 100 including, for example, a
power supply, diagnostic electronics, mounting devices, a monitor
screen 123, a protective door cover 122, and the like. In one
embodiment, the monitor screen 123, e.g., LCD touch-screen, may be
disposed within the housing 112. A test power button 125, such as a
toggle-switch, is provided on the housing 112 to activate and
de-activate test power to the drive motor (not shown) and/or the
transformer (not shown). A main power switch (not shown) is also
used to provide power to the tester 100.
[0020] The tester 100 also includes an alternator belt tensioning
arrangement generally designated 116, an alternator mounting
arrangement generally designated 118, and a starter motor holder
arrangement generally designated as 120. Each of the belt
tensioning arrangement 116, the alternator mounting arrangement
118, and the starter motor holder arrangement 120 may be mounted
directly to the base plate 114.
[0021] The alternator belt tensioning arrangement 116 and the
alternator mounting arrangement 118 together hold the alternator in
place for testing. An installation assembly that includes one or
more mounting pins (not shown) can be placed in the alternator
mounting arrangement 118 in order to mount the alternator. The
alternator can be horizontally or vertically mounted depending on
the type of alternator. The pins are replaceable to allow
flexibility for current and future applications.
[0022] Additionally, a drive belt (not shown), such as a serpentine
or V-type belt or the like, can be connected to the alternator and
the drive motor to simulate the operating environment in the
vehicle. A gas piston may be used for belt tension to ensure
consistent belt tension during testing, thereby eliminating over
tensioning or belt slippage that may affect test results.
[0023] The starter motor holder arrangement 120 includes a quick
release ratchet system, wherein the starter is placed on a pad and
held in place by the ratchet system. The starter motor holder
arrangement 120 includes, a support pad 130, a handle 132 and a
release lock 134 that when operated engages and disengages a lock
(pawl, for example) from a ratchet (both not shown). The starter
motor holder arrangement 120 helps to eliminate the use of straps,
and alternatively uses the quick ratchet to hold the starter
without the need of any additional holding mechanism or end user
assistance during the test. Thus, the aforementioned arrangement
makes the loading and unloading of components to be tested much
more efficient. The starter motor may be placed on the support pad
130 for testing. Upon the placement, the operator squeezes the
release lock 134 and presses down on the handle 132 to engage the
starter motor and then releases the lock so that the lock is again
reengaged. The starter motor may be powered by a transformer (not
shown) in order to simulate operating environments. The transformer
may be powered by an external power source and may provide test
power to the starter motor via a heavy duty cable and clamps.
[0024] FIG. 1 also illustrates the monitor screen 123 that can
operate as a touch-screen LCD user interface that communicates with
a controller (discussed below) as well as to display information to
the end user. The present invention also utilizes an on-line
tutorial for quickly training new personnel on the unit's
functionality and on-line help screens to help new users navigate
and test components during a test. The monitor screen 123 may offer
step-by-step instructions for setting up the tester 100 and
conducting tests. The monitor screen 123 may also display on-screen
hook up diagrams and a specification library database, which
eliminate the need for paper flipcharts and enables software
updates for new alternator applications or starter configurations.
This database can be updated by compact flash, flash drive, other
memory media or remotely via a network connection (discussed
below). The monitor screen 123 may allow end users to run
advertising screens when the tester is not in use. These screens
can be uploaded to the tester 100 from an end user's network server
or uploaded from a compact flash or other memory media.
Additionally, the monitor screen 123 may be capable of displaying
information in various updatable languages.
[0025] The tester 100 may output "Good/Bad" or "Pass/Fail" results
to the end user. An end user printout that details test results and
provides technical advice for other potential problems can be
provided to the end user.
[0026] Turning now to FIG. 2, a perspective view of the alternator
and starter motor tester 200 according to another exemplary
embodiment of the present disclosure is illustrated. The alternator
and starter motor tester 200 ("tester") has components similar to
the tester 100 depicted in FIG. 1, however it has an alternative
design. For example, tester 200 includes a housing 212 and a base
plate (or chassis) 214. The housing 212 surrounds and supports
various operative components of the tester 200 including, for
example, a power supply, diagnostic electronics, mounting devices,
a monitor screen 223, a protective door cover 222, and the like. In
the embodiment depicted, the monitor screen 223, is an LCD
touch-screen disposed within the housing 212. A power button 225,
such as a toggle-switch design, is provided on the housing 212 to
activate or deactivate test power to the driver motor (not shown)
and/or the transformer (not shown). A main power switch (not shown)
is also used to provide power to the tester 200.
[0027] The tester 200 also includes an alternator belt tensioning
arrangement generally designated 216, an alternator mounting
arrangement generally designated 218, and a starter motor holder
arrangement generally designated as 220. Each of the belt
tensioning arrangement 216, the alternator mounting arrangement
218, and the starter motor holder arrangement 220 may be mounted
directly to the base plate 214.
[0028] The test adapters 226 and power leads 228 may be connected
to the alternator or starter motor in order to provide test
information to tester 200. Additionally, a drive belt (not shown),
such as a serpentine or V-type belt or the like, can be connected
to the alternator and drive motor to simulate the operating
environment in the vehicle. A gas piston may be used for belt
tension to ensure consistent belt tension during testing and
thereby eliminating over tensioning or slipping belts that may
affect test results.
[0029] The starter motor holder arrangement 220 includes a quick
release ratchet system, wherein the starter is placed on a pad and
held in place by the ratchet system. The starter motor holder
arrangement 220 includes, a handle 232 and a release lock 234 that
when operated engages and disengages a lock (pawl, for example)
from a ratchet (both not shown). The starter motor holder
arrangement 220 helps to eliminate the use of straps, and
alternatively uses the quick ratchet to hold the starter without
the need of any additional holding mechanism or end user assistance
during the test. Thus, the aforementioned arrangement makes the
loading and unloading of components to be tested much more
efficient. The starter motor may be placed in the tester 200 for
testing. Upon the arrangement, the operator squeezes the release
lock and presses down on the handle 232 to engage the starter motor
and then releases the lock so that the lock is again reengaged.
Power leads 228, including, for example, battery lead, ground lead,
solenoid lead and sense lead are connected to the starter motor in
order to conduct the tests.
[0030] In the embodiment depicted in FIG. 2, the tester 200 may
incorporate enhanced safety features, such as the protective door
cover 222 to enclose moving parts during tests. The protective door
cover 222 conceals the belt tensioning arrangement 216, the
alternator mounting arrangement 218, the starter motor holder
arrangement 220, and other test components, such as an alternator
or starter motor in the closed position.
[0031] In the closed position, the protective door cover 222
reduces the likelihood of the possibility of hands getting caught
in moving parts or projectiles potentially contacting the end user.
The protective door cover 222 may employ a door interlock switch
(not shown) to disable tests while the protective door cover 222 is
open. Alternatively, the protective door cover 222 may include a
viewing window so that the operator can observe the components
during the tests.
[0032] FIG. 3 is a block diagram 300 of the components of the
alternator and starter motor tester as previously described and
shown in FIGS. 1-2 according to an exemplary embodiment of the
present invention. The components generally include a monitor
screen, such as LCD screen 302 that may present various information
to the user. The LCD screen 302 may be a touch panel to input
information as desired by the user and can be controlled by a
processor 304. The processor 304 may be any processor or
controller, including a FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or
application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The processor 304
is capable of running various OS (Operating System) including
Linux, Apple Computer's Operating System (such as OS X), Windows,
Windows CE and the like. The processor 304 communicates with a
digital signal processor 306, which includes an analog and digital
(A/D) converter. The processor 304 communicates with other
components (e.g., internal memory 308, USB port 312, RS-232 ports
316, motor 330, interface module 324 and/or charging module 334) of
the tester 100 via a communication bus 328.
[0033] The processor 304 is configured to communicate with an
internal memory 308 and an external memory 310. The internal memory
308 and/or the external memory 310 can be any memory including, for
example, compact flash, SD (secure digital), USB flash drives, and
the like. A universal serial bus (USB) port 312 communicates with
the processor 304 and provides a connection for various USB
compatible devices, such as, for example, the external memory 310,
a printer 314, a radio frequency identification (RFID) reader 332
and/or a diagnostic tool 336. The RFID reader 332 functions to read
identifying information about the tested component containing an
RFID chip once it is within a detection range. The RFID chip may be
integrated or separated from the tested component. The RFID chip
may contain information about the alternator or starter motor such
as alternator/starter motor type, serial number, manufacturer, date
of production or shipment, previous test results, electrical
specifications, maintenance information, serial number, lot number,
warranty information, a manufacture data code, method of shipment
and the like.
[0034] RS-232 ports 316 also communicate with other external
devices, such as a computing device 320, a bar code reader 318
and/or the diagnostic tool 336. The computing device 320 can be any
computing device, including a personal computer, a laptop, a
tablet, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a cell phone or the
like. In another embodiment, the ports 312 and 316 may accommodate
a data cable that may connect to a data link connector in a vehicle
to retrieve diagnostic information, such as diagnostic trouble
codes (DTCs).
[0035] The bar code reader 318 allows the user to scan bar code
information that may be attached to the tested component or the VIN
(vehicle identification number) of the vehicle from which the
tested component came from. The bar code reader 318 may be, for
example, a conventional optical bar code reader, such as a gun or
wand type reader.
[0036] During operation, the end user swipes or aims the bar code
reader 318 over the bar code that is associated with the particular
alternator or starter motor to be tested and reads the bar code
accordingly. The bar code itself may be affixed to the alternator
or starter motor at the time of manufacture, purchase, shipment or
service. The bar code may contain information, or point to
information stored in a database. The database may be local (e.g.,
internal memory 308) or remotely (e.g., external memory 310)
located and accessible by the Internet, Ethernet, Wi-Fi, LAN,
Bluetooth or other wireless or a wired connection. The data
provided by the bar code is not limited to the examples given.
[0037] The interface module 324 may comprise a database (or access
the internal memory 308 or the external memory 310 that stores the
database) for storing information associated with the tested
components and information associated with the diagnostic test
performed by the tester 100. The information associated with the
tested components may include, but not limited to,
alternator/starter type, serial number, manufacturer, date of
production or shipment, previous test results, electrical
specifications, port connections, electrical configuration/layout,
diagnostic specification, maintenance information, serial number,
lot number, warranty information, a manufacture data code, method
of shipment and the like. The information associated with the
diagnostic test performed by the tester 100 may include, but not
limited to, test specification, test values, test results
(including previous test results), data, time, employee, location,
weather condition during testing (extreme cold or heat that may
affect the test) and/or any other information associated with the
diagnostic test.
[0038] The bar code may provide a variety of information regarding
the alternator or starter motor to be tested. For example, the bar
code may provide information regarding the alternator/starter motor
type, serial number, manufacturer, date of production or shipment,
previous test results, electrical specifications, maintenance
information, serial number, lot number, warranty information, a
manufacture data code, method of shipment and the like. This data
can be used to select parameters for the test cycle run to test the
alternator and starter motor.
[0039] In some embodiments, the printer 314 may print bar code
labels that may be attached or otherwise associated with the
alternator or starter and provides updated information about the
component. The updated information may include, among other things,
service dates, service procedures (including the results), and
warranty information (e.g., time left on warranty, who was the
original purchaser, what types of service are and are not
warranted, etc.). The printed label may then be read by the bar
code reader 318 in subsequent tests. These features can eliminate
possible typographical errors during manual input and by speeding
up part number selection and entry by having a scanning
capability.
[0040] The present disclosure also has the ability to store and
display or print technical bulletins associated with specific part
numbers of components to be tested. Printouts of test results can
give rebuilders access to data obtained by users to assist in the
further analysis of that component.
[0041] The interface module 324 may communicate with external
devices coupled to the tester 100. For example, the interface
module 324 may communicate and receive identification information
of the alternator or starter motor to be tested from the bar code
reader 318, the RFID reader 332, and/or a POS terminal 326 through
a direct or indirect connection. In an exemplary embodiment, the
interface module 324 may communicate with the bar code reader 318
and receive bar code identification information of the alternator
or starter motor to be tested. In another exemplary embodiment, the
interface module 324 may communicate with the RFID reader 332 and
receive RFID identification information of the alternator or
starter motor to be tested. In other exemplary embodiment, the
interface module 324 may communicate with the POS terminal 326 and
receive identification information of the alternator or starter
motor to be tested inputted by a user.
[0042] The interface module 324 may communicate with a charging
module 334 that may control charging of a capacitive element (610
of FIG. 6) of the tester 100. For example, the interface module 324
may provide an electrical specification of the alternator or
starter motor to be tested to the charging module 334 and the
charging module 334 may charge the capacitive element based at
least in part on the supplied electrical specification. The
charging module 334 may charge a capacitive element of the tester
100 before testing of the alternator and/or starter motor. The
charging module 334 may control an amount of power that is supplied
to the capacitive element based at least in part on the alternator
or starter motor to be tested. For example, an alternator or
starter motor to be tested may require a smaller amount of power,
the charging module 334 may supply the smaller amount of power to
the capacitive element. While, an alternator or starter motor to be
tested may require a larger amount of power, the charging module
334 may supply the larger amount of power to the capacitive
element.
[0043] The charging module 334 may control a timing to charge the
capacitive element of the tester 100. For example, the charging
module 334 may supply a constant voltage potential and/or current
to the capacitive element of the tester 100. The charging module
334 may start charging the capacitive element closer to the start
of the test when an alternator or starter motor to be tested may
require a smaller amount of power. While, the charging module 334
may start charging the capacitive element at an earlier time before
the start of the test when an alternator or starter motor to be
tested may require a larger amount of power. In another example,
the charging module 334 may supply a variable voltage potential
and/or current to the capacitive element of the tester 100. The
charging module 334 may determine a charge time based at least in
part on the variable voltage potential and/or current and the
amount of charge required to test an alternator and/or a starter
motor.
[0044] The charging module 334 may charge the capacitive element of
the tester 100 continuously or intermittently. For example, the
charging module 334 may continuously charge the capacitive element
of the tester 100 in order to maintain the charged voltage
potential of the capacitive element. In another exemplary
embodiment, the charging module 334 may monitor a voltage potential
stored in the capacitive element and may intermittently charge the
capacitive element when the voltage potential stored in the voltage
potential drops to a voltage charging threshold.
[0045] The charging module 334 may verify whether the capacitive
element is properly charged based at least in part on the
information of the alternator or starter motor to be tested. For
example, the charging module 334 may detect the output voltage
potential and/or current of the capacitive element and determine
whether the detected output voltage potential and/or current
matches an expected voltage potential and/or current stored in a
data of either the internal memory 308 or the external memory
310.
[0046] The charging module 334 may also monitor an output voltage
potential and/or current of the capacitive element of the tester
100 during the diagnostic test. The charging module 334 may
determine when to couple a power source during the diagnostic test
based at least in part on the output voltage potential and/or
current of the capacitive element. For example, when the output
voltage potential and/or current of the capacitive element is below
a threshold output power level during a diagnostic test, the
charging module 334 may determine to couple power to the tester 100
from the external power source (e.g., A/C or DC power source). In
an exemplary embodiment, the charging module 334 may continue to
supply power from the capacitive element in addition to the power
supplied by the power source during the diagnostic test. In another
exemplary embodiment, the charging module 334 may discontinue to
supply power from the capacitive element once the power is supplied
during the diagnostic test. The output threshold power level may be
determined based at least in part on a power rating of the tester
100 and/or tested components.
[0047] The processor 304 can also interact with a networked
computer, LAN (local area network), a smartphone, cellular phone or
a distributed network, such as the Internet 322 and the like. This
connection allows the user to update the tester 100 and also send
information regarding the test results to a remote location. The
information sent or received may include, software, firmware,
language, weather reports and database for the components to be
tested or to the tester 100.
[0048] A motor 330 is also provided in order to test alternators.
Motor 330 can simulate the engine of a vehicle and includes a
pulley to mate with a belt. At one end, the belt is coupled to the
motor's 330 pulley and at the other end is coupled to the pulley of
the alternator to be tested.
[0049] FIG. 4 illustrates a method 400 for conducting a diagnostic
test by the alternator and starter motor tester 100 according to an
embodiment of the present invention. This exemplary method 400 may
be provided by way of example, as there are a variety of ways to
carry out the method. The method 400 shown in FIG. 4 can be
executed or otherwise performed by one or a combination of various
systems, such as, the system and networks shown in FIGS. 1-3, 5 and
6, by way of example. Each block shown in FIG. 4 represents one or
more processes, methods, or subroutines carried out in exemplary
method 400 and the steps are not limited to the order shown in the
figure. Referring to FIG. 4, exemplary method 400 may begin at step
402.
[0050] Starting at step 402, the user selects the component or the
part to test at step 404 through an input device, such as the LCD
screen 302 or the bar code or RFID chip. At step, 406, the
interface module 324 identifies information associated with the
tested components. For example, the interface module 324 may
identify a power level (e.g., voltage potential and/or current) at
which the tested component should be tested at. At step 408, the
charging module 334 may start charging the capacitive element of
the tester 100 based at least in part on the information associated
with the tested components. In an exemplary embodiment, the
charging module 334 may charge the capacitive element before a
diagnostic test performed by the tester 100. In another exemplary
embodiment, the charging module 334 may charge the capacitive
element during a diagnostic test performed by the tester 100. The
charging module 334 may charge the capacitive element for a period
of time until the capacitive element reaches a power level to start
the diagnostic test.
[0051] The capacitive element may be used to start the diagnostic
test at step 410. The capacitive element may supply power to the
tester 100 to start the diagnostic test of components to be tested.
The charging module 334 may monitor an output voltage potential
and/or current of the capacitive element. The charging module 334
may couple a power source to continue the diagnostic test of the
components to be tested at step 412, when the output voltage
potential and/or current falls to a testing threshold power level.
After coupling the power source to perform the diagnostic test, the
charging module 334 may decouple the capacitive element as a power
source. In another example, the capacitive element may continue to
provide power to the diagnostic test, after the charging module 334
couples the power source to perform the diagnostic tests. By
coupling the power source with the capacitive element to supply a
power to the tester 100, the tester 100 may test a component that
may require higher power than the power source is able to supply.
After the completion of the diagnostic test, the charging module
334 may charge the capacitive element for the next diagnostic test
at step 414.
[0052] The charging module 334 may maintain the voltage potential
stored in the capacitive element at step 416. For example, the
charging module 334 may continuously supply a voltage potential
and/or current to the capacitive element to replenish charges
leaked in order to maintain a voltage potential stored in the
capacitive element. In another example, the charging module 334 may
intermittently supply a voltage potential and/or current to the
capacitive element when the voltage potential stored in the
capacitive element drops to a charging threshold power level due to
leakage of charges to maintain a voltage potential stored in the
capacitive element.
[0053] Referring to FIG. 5, in some embodiments of the alternator
and starter motor tester, network connectivity may be used to track
tests based on part number, employee and location in order to
improve accuracy of the diagnostic test. The large-scale
communication network ports can be constructed and arranged to
receive an information relay device, such as an Ethernet wired
module and/or an Ethernet wireless module. The Ethernet modules
communicate at data rates of 10 Mbps (10Base-T Ethernet), 100 Mbps
(Fast Ethernet), 1000 Mbps (Gigabit Ethernet) and other data rates.
The information relayed can include data from the result of an
alternator or starter test, the part's warranty information, the
part type, the part make and model, previous tests, updates,
diagnostic or operating parameters of the alternator and starter
tester, maintenance data of the alternator and starter tester, and
any other data required by the operator.
[0054] Referring to FIG. 5, in some embodiments, peripheral module
ports 502 may be used to communicate to various peripheral devices
such as a mouse, a keyboard, or a printer as well as to receive
updates and/or downloads from a connected device such as a laptop
or personal computer. The peripheral module ports 502 may be a USB
module having ports for a host connection and a function
connection. The USB module may communicate as USB 1.1 or USB 2.0,
3.0 or other data rates. The peripheral module ports 502 may
accommodate a mouse, a keyboard, or a printer. The function
connection may accommodate a laptop or personal computer. The
peripheral module ports 502 may also include a cable connection
that may allow communication between the tester 100 and a
vehicle.
[0055] FIG. 6 illustrates a circuit schematic diagram of an
alternator and starter motor tester 100 according to an embodiment
of the present disclosure. The tester 100 may be coupled to an
external power source 602 (e.g., an alternating current (AC) power
source) via an electrical connection 604. In an exemplary
embodiment, the external power source 602 may be a 120V alternating
current (AC) and 20 A power source to power an operation of the
tester 100. The tester 100 may also include a power supply
circuitry 606. The power supply circuitry 606 may include a
transformer circuitry and a rectifier circuitry (not shown) for
converting the power received from the external power source 602
into a power that may be used by the tester 100. In an exemplary
embodiment, the transformer circuitry of the power supply circuitry
606 may convert the 120V alternating current (AC) power signal to a
12V alternating current (AC) power signal. The rectifier circuitry
(not shown) of the power supply circuitry 606 may convert (e.g.,
rectify) the 12V alternating current (AC) power signal to a 12V
direct current (DC) power signal to power the tester 100.
[0056] For example, the power supply circuitry 606 may supply power
to test and control circuitry 608 and a capacitive element 610 to
run a starter motor 612 in order to perform a diagnostic test on an
alternator or a starter motor. For example, the capacitive element
610 may be a high energy density (HED) capacitive element
including, but not limited to, an ultracapacitor, a supercapacitor,
electrochemical double layer capacitor (EDLC), a thin-film
capacitor or any other high energy density (HED) capacitor. If
ultracapacitors are implemented, the ultracapacitors may include a
double-layer structure that polarizes an electrolytic solution to
store energy electrostatically. However other types of
ultracapacitor arrangements are contemplated as well. For example,
the capacitive element 610 may be one or more ultracapacitors such
as the ultracapacitors manufactured by Maxwell Technologies, San
Diego, Calif., USA.
[0057] The capacitive element 610 may be configured to have
sufficient capacitance as required to run the starter motor 612 for
a period of time (e.g., several seconds) in order to test an
alternator or a starter motor. For example, the capacitive element
610 may be a single capacitor element or a plurality of capacitor
elements coupled to each other in parallel configuration to provide
additional voltage and/or energy storage. Additionally or
alternatively, the capacitor elements may be arranged in a series
configuration to achieve a higher operating voltage potential. In
an exemplary embodiment, the capacitive element 610 may be a
capacitive module having a plurality of individual capacitors
connected in series and parallel to each other via bus bar
connections. In an exemplary embodiment, the capacitive element 610
may be configured to store sufficient charge (e.g., 12V) to run the
starter motor 612 for a period of time. For example, the capacitive
element 610 made be configured with six 100F 2.7 volt capacitors in
series; and may be in parallel with another six 100F 2.7 volt
capacitors in series. Of course, numerous other arrangements are
contemplated as well.
[0058] The power supply circuitry 606 may supply power to the
capacitive element 610 between tests of an alternator and/or a
starter motor. The capacitive element 610 may discharge stored
charges to run the starter motor 612 during testing. For example,
an advantage of the capacitive element 610 is that the power supply
circuitry 606 may have a lower current capacity than existing
alternator and starter motor testers because the existing
alternator and starter motor testers includes a transformer that
requires higher current capacity (e.g., voltage and current for 5
seconds) to run the test. The capacitive element 610 may require
lower current capacity because the capacitive element 610 may be
charged for a longer period of time (e.g., at least a minute or
two) between tests. In another example, the capacitive element 610
may eliminate the redundancy of two power supply circuitry 606 for
separately supplying power to the test and control circuitry 608
and the starter motor 612. By using the capacitive element 610, the
redundancy of the power supply circuitry 606 may be eliminated
because the power supply circuitry 606 may supply power to both the
test and control circuitry 608 and the capacitive element 610.
[0059] As described above, the capacitive elements may provide an
additional source of power that may allow for the use of smaller
and less costly circuit components in the starter motor tester; the
smaller and less costly circuit components may have reduced power
consumption; and the capacitive elements may be sufficiently
charged by the smaller circuit components when the starter motor
tester is not being utilized.
[0060] The many features and advantages of the present disclosure
are apparent from the detailed specification, and thus, it is
intended by the appended claims to cover all such features and
advantages of the present disclosure, which fall within the true
spirit, and scope of the present disclosure. Further, since
numerous modifications and variations will readily occur to those
skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the present
disclosure to the exact construction and operation illustrated and
described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and
equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the
present disclosure.
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