WO2007110166A2

WO2007110166A2 - Coupling device with a test interface controller for coupling a diagnostic device and corresponding method and diagnostic module

Info

Publication number: WO2007110166A2
Application number: PCT/EP2007/002382
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jürgen RAUSCHENBERGER; Rainer Zaiser
Original assignee: Vector Informatik Gmbh
Priority date: 2006-03-27
Filing date: 2007-03-17
Publication date: 2007-10-04
Also published as: EP1999587A2; WO2007110166A3; DE102006013945A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a method, a diagnostic module (64) and a coupling device, for coupling a diagnostic device (10, 11) to a communication interface (50, 51) of a device (14) for testing, for example, a motor vehicle, comprising a base component (21, 22), having a diagnostic device interface (42, 43) with a diagnostic device communication controller (46, 47), for connecting the diagnostic device (10, 11) and with at least one module (23-25), which may be plugged into a plug (26-29) on the base component (21, 22) with a communication transceiver to form a test interface (38-40) for the communication interface (50, 51) of the device (14) for testing, wherein the coupling device (12, 13) transmits data received at the test interface (38-40) to the diagnostic device interface (42, 43) and/or data received at the diagnostic device interface (42, 43) to the test interface (38-40). The base component (21, 22) and/or the at least one module (23-25) comprise a test interface controller (56, 77), in particular, a bus controller, which may be configured for communication with the communication interface (50, 51) of the device (14) for testing by means of loadable operating software (61).

Description

Coupling device with a Prüfschnittstellen- controller for coupling a diagnostic device and method and diagnostic module for this purpose

The invention relates to a method, a diagnostic module and a coupling device for coupling a diagnostic device, in particular a personal computer, to a communication interface of a device to be tested, in particular to a communication network of a motor vehicle, with a basic unit, the diagnostic device interface with a diagnostic device Communication controller for connecting the diagnostic device, and having at least one pluggable to a socket of the basic module module having a communication transceiver for forming a test interface for the communication interface of the device under test, wherein the coupling device at the test interface received data at the Diagnosegerät- Interface and / or outputs data received at the diagnostic device interface at the Prüfschnittsteile.

Such a coupling device is used, for example, to test a CAN or LIN network (CAN = Control A-Rea Network, LIN = Local Interconnect Network) of a motor vehicle. The basic module is for example a plug-in card which can be plugged into a bus of the diagnostic device, for example a personal computer. Furthermore, a known in a separate housing base assembly known, for example, via a USB (Universal Serial Bus) is connected to the diagnostic device. At the test interface, the coupling device receives data that the device to be tested outputs at its communication interface so that, for example, data transmitted in a listening mode on a CAN bus of a motor vehicle is output at the diagnostic interface or received in active operation of the diagnostic device interface Data is output at the test interface.

The module is used to adapt to the respective communication interface of the device to be tested, for example to different CAN bus types or a LIN bus. However, the majority of the components of the coupling device is arranged on the base unit, that is, on the plug-in board or in the separate housing of the base unit, so that the known coupling device is relatively difficult to adapt to the respective communication requirements.

It is therefore the object of the present invention to provide a more easily adaptable to the respective devices to be tested coupling device.

To achieve the object is provided in coupling device of the type mentioned that the base unit and / or the at least one module at least one configurable by a loadable operating software for communication with the communication interface of the device to be tested PrüfSchnittstellen controller, in particular a bus controller , having. Furthermore, a method and a diagnostic module according to further independent claims are provided to achieve the object. The coupling device can be optimally adapted by the loadable operating software to the communication interface of the device to be tested, in particular to a communication network of a motor vehicle. For example, in this way the test interface controller or bus controller of the coupling device can be adapted to a CAN protocol, a LIN protocol, a FlexRay protocol (an automobile communication system) or the like. The test interface controller contains, for example, an FPGA or an ASIC and, after optionally loading the operating software, can process the respective communication protocol at the test interface (FPGA = Field Progammable Gate Array, ASIC = Application Specific Integrated Circuit). The operating software contains, for example, logic software for operating i5 of the test interface controller, for example a so-called IP core (intellectual property core).

By the loadable in the at least one PrüfSchnittstellen- controller of the coupling device operating software is the greatest possible flexibility and adaptability

20 available. For example, in the prior art, if two CAN modules are plugged into the base unit, then two CAN controllers would have to be present. However, these CAN controllers are not required in an operating case if, for example, a LIN module or a Flexray module are plugged into the plug-in receptacles of the basic module. If, for example, a base unit has two plug-in receptacles and four different bus variants are provided for the test interface, in order to be prepared for each configuration, a total of eight controllers for the two test interfaces of the modules would be present in a conventional base unit. The diagnostic device interface, for example a USB interface (Universal Serial Bus), a PCI interface (Peripheral Component Interconnect Bus) or a Firewire interface (IEEE 1394) is distinguished from the test interface parts which, for example, have a LIN interface. Interface, one

CAN interface, a Flexray interface or other interface of a Kommunkationsnetzes, in particular an automation bus, a media bus, especially in motor vehicles, or the like.

Although it is in principle conceivable that the operating software is already stored on the coupling device and is loaded on a case-by-case basis into the test interface controller. However, this requires a sufficiently large memory for storing the operating software. It is therefore expedient for the operating software to be supplied by the diagnostic device, e.g. in particular a personal computer, is loaded on the coupling device. It is expedient, for example, if the diagnostic device or a software of the diagnostic device has the respective type of plugged into the plug-in receptacle

20 module in the coupling device interrogated. The coupling device sends this type identifier to the diagnostic device via the diagnostic device interface. It is particularly preferred if the type identifier is stored in the at least one module, which the type identifier according to query or automa-

25 transmitted to the diagnostic device when plugged into the plug-in receptacle.

The basic module, which expediently comprises a separate housing from the diagnostic device or is advantageously designed as a plug-in card for the diagnostic device, preferably contains the means required for communication at the diagnostic device interface, in particular a diagnostic device communication controller. In the case of Ren module, however, are required for communication with the device to be tested means available, in particular a plug-in device to which the device to be tested can be connected, and a communication transceiver, 5 so that an optimal adaptation to the communication sections of the device to be tested is possible.

The at least one test interface controller may be part of the basic module or of the at least one module.

The diagnostic device communication controller (s) of the docking device (a docking device of the present invention may also include multiple diagnostic device communication controllers) and the one or more test interface controllers may be formed by a single package.

i5 The connection means of the basic module connect the module interface with the diagnostic device communication controller, so that overall the communication path between the diagnostic device interface and the test interface on the at least one module is closed.

2o The module according to the invention can be easily arranged on an alternative basic unit. For example, it can be arranged, on the one hand, on a basic structural unit designed as a plug-in card and, on the other hand, on a base structural unit realized as a separate housing. Furthermore, basic construction

25 units with, for example, different types of housing conceivable, in the e.g. more (e.g., 8) or less (e.g., 2) of the invention may be inserted. The case is also advantageous in that, for example, a first module with a test interface for a communication interface of a

30 first type, for example a CAN bus, or alternatively a second module with a test interface for a communication interface of a second type, or a LIN bus, can be arranged on the base unit.

The module and / or the connection means advantageously also have a conversion unit for converting the data transmitted to the diagnostic device interface for the module interface and / or vice versa. Further, the connection means or module may comprise analog to digital converters or digital to analogue converters. Also, galvanic separation means and / or a microcontroller are advantageously contained in the module and / or the connection means.

The basic module is advantageously designed to detect a type identifier of the at least one module. For example, when the module is plugged into the base unit, it sends its type identifier to the base unit. For example, the base unit sends the type identifier to the diagnostic device. But also for other purposes, for example for a parameterization of the module, the type identifier is advantageous.

In the coupling device is advantageously provided that it is parameterizable for a first and at least a second type of test interface, so that it is adaptable to a respective communication interface of the device to be tested, for example by the parameterization of a transmission rate (baud rate) or the like. The operating parameters may also include electrical levels, data to be monitored at the communication interface, or the like.

The basic unit is advantageously for the transmission of operating parameters, a release key, a Operating software or the like to the at least one module designed. The basic module transmits this data, for example, automatically to the at least one module when connecting the module to the module interface.

The operating parameters, the activation key or the operating software can be queried, for example, from the diagnostic device and transmitted to the at least one module. Optionally, a memory may be present in the basic module which is designed to store such data. Also, the at least one module may have a suitably non-volatile memory for such data.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the invention will be explained with reference to the drawing. Show it:

1 shows a partially schematic view with two diagnostic devices, which are connected via a first and a second inventive coupling device to a device to be tested in the form of a motor vehicle,

FIG. 2 shows an opened plug-in module for the coupling devices according to FIG. 1 in perspective view,

FIG. 3 shows the plug-in module according to FIG. 2 in the closed state from behind,

FIG. 4 shows the plug-in module according to FIGS. 2 and 3 in an opened perspective view from the front, an upper housing part and an upper board being removed; FIGS. 5a, 5b latching means or spring clips of a latching arrangement of the module according to FIGS. 2, 3, 4,

6 shows a base assembly in the form of a plug-in card with two plug-in receptacles for modules in the design according to Figures 2, 3 and 4 obliquely from behind,

FIG. 7 shows the basic structural unit according to FIG. 6 obliquely from the front with an unpopulated plug-in receptacle and a plug receptacle equipped with a module according to FIG.

8 shows the plug-in card according to FIGS. 6, 7 in the diagnostic device, in particular a personal computer, plugged in state, and

Figure 9 shows a second design of a basic assembly according to the invention with a separate, can be coupled to a diagnostic device housing.

Diagnostic devices 10, 11, e.g. a notebook and a personal computer, are coupled by means of coupling devices 12, 13 to a device 14 to be tested. The device 14 is e.g. a motor vehicle 15 with a communication network 16 to which the diagnostic devices 10, 11 via the coupling devices 12, 13 are connected. The communication network 16, for example, a CAN bus or other bus, is used for communication between control units 17, 18 of the motor vehicle 15, which are provided for example for controlling a motor 19, a window lifter 20 or the like. With the diagnostic devices 10, 11, the communication on the communication network 16 can be analyzed and / or influenced.

A modular concept of the docking devices 12, 13 allows the modules 23, 24, 25 or others not shown modules in plug-in receptacles 26, 27 of the base assembly 21 or plug receptacles 28, 29 of the base assembly 22 can be inserted. The modules 23, 24 are modules for a test interface of a first type to be tested, in the present case CAN modules, whereas the module 25 is a module for a communication interface of a second type, for example for a communication network 150 of the motor vehicle 15, eg a LIN. Bus or a flexray bus.

The base assemblies 22 has a separate housing 10 from the diagnostic device 30 with, for example, two receptacles 26, 27. The plug receptacles 26, 27 are arranged side by side on their respective narrow sides. The basic module 22 is realized as a plug-in card 31 for the diagnostic device 11. The plug-in card 31 is arranged, for example, in the housing 32 of the diagnostic device 11. It is understood that base assemblies according to the invention can also have only one or more than two plug receptacles.

The modules 23-25 can be plugged into the plug-in receptacles 26-29 from the front, that is, from the front sides 33, 34 of the base assemblies 21, 22. This is an electric

Connection between plug contacts 35 of the modules 23, 24 or 25 and sockets 36 of module interfaces 37 of the basic units 21, 22 made.

Then test interfaces 38, 39, and 40 of the docking devices 12, 13 are connected to diagnostic device interfaces 42, 43. The test cut parts 38, 39, and 40 are formed by the base assemblies 21, 22 and / or the modules 23-25. Connecting means 41 of the basic assemblies 21, 22 establish a connection between the module interfaces 37 and the diagnostic device interfaces 42, 43. The diagnostic device interface 42 is, for example, a USB interface. The diagnostic device 10 is connected, for example via a USB cable 44 with the coupling device 12, in particular the base assembly 21. The diagnostic device interface 43 is an interface for an internal bus 45 of the diagnostic device 11, for example a PCI bus.

The coupling devices 12, 13 output data received at the test interfaces 38-40, for example CAN messages, to the diagnostic device interfaces 42, 43. The reverse path is also possible, namely that the diagnostic devices 10, 11 via the coupling devices 12, 13 output data on the communication network 16, that is, that the coupling devices 12, 13 at the diagnostic device interfaces 42, 43 received data to the Output test cutting parts 38-40.

The connection means 41 include diagnostic device communication controllers 46, 47, for example USB controllers, PCI bus controllers or the like. In principle, it is possible within the scope of the invention that diagnostic device communication controllers in the manner of the communication controllers 46 and / or 47 form components of the modules 23-25.

In the present case, however, a functional separation is realized in which communication components required for communication with the respective diagnostic device 10 or II form components of the basic units 21, 22, whereas communication means for the individual communication with the device 14 to be tested at least partially Components of the modules 23, 24 or 25 form. For example, the modules 23, 24 and 25 each include a connector 72 for connecting connectors 73 to cables 74 disposed on cables 74 to connect the communication interfaces 50, 51 to the test interfaces 38, 39. The plug-in devices 72 and the plug connectors 73 are, for example, RS-232 plugs and sockets. It is understood that other types of connectors, such as RJ45 plug / sockets, optical connectors or the like can be readily implemented. Thus, an optimal adaptation to the respective required Vedrahtungs- and connection technology using the modules 23, 24 and 25 is possible.

Furthermore, the modules 23, 24 contain communication transceivers 48, 49 for communication with communication interfaces 50, 51 of the device 14 or motor vehicle 15. The communication transceivers 48, 49 are, for example, CAN transceivers. The module 25 includes an unillustrated LIN transceiver.

It is understood that in principle different electrical and / or optical transceivers, also for user-specific communication networks, can form components of modules according to the invention, e.g. different CAN transceiver types.

Furthermore, in the case of a module according to the invention, direct electrical and / or optical connections between the front-side connections or contacts of the test interfaces and the contacts for the module interface of the basic module are possible.

A front wall 52 of the basic structural unit 21 forms constituents of the housing 30 thereof. A front wall 53 of the basic structural unit 21 Assembly 22 forms in the assembled state a part of the housing 32 of the diagnostic device 11. The modules 23-25 can be inserted through insertion openings 54, 55 on the front walls 52, 53 into the plug receptacles 26-29.

The test interfaces 38, 39 and 40 include test interface controllers 77 and / or 56. The test interface controllers 77 are disposed on the base assemblies 21 and / or 22. The test interface controllers 56 are components of the modules 23-25. It is possible according to the invention that either only the test interface controllers 77 or only the test interface controllers 56 are present or the test interface controllers 77 and 56 have complementary functions. If e.g. only the test interface controllers 77 are present, instead of the modules 23-25 modules, not shown, can be used, which have no Prüf- interface controller for operating the respective Prüfschnittsteile 38, 39 or 40.

However, it is expedient if the modules 23-25 in any case have a communication transceiver 48 or 49.

The test interface controllers 77 and / or the test interface controllers 56 are expediently configurable by loading operating software 61 for communication with the communication interfaces 50, 51 of the device 14 to be tested. The test interface controllers 77 and / or 56 then form e.g. Bus controller, in particular

CAN controller, LIN controller or the like. The controllers 77 and / or 56 expediently include an ASIC and / or an FPGA (FPGA = Field Progammable Gate Array, ASIC = Application Specific Integrated Circuit). For example, the test interface controllers 77 and / or 56 may be readily adapted to a LIN protocol, CAN protocol, FlexRay protocol, or the like. The operating software 61 is expediently logic data for operating, for example, an FPGA or an ASIC. The operating software 61 is, for example, a so-called IP core (intellectual property core / core) with which the test interface controllers 77 and / or 56 can be set for their respective operating case. For example, the operating software 61 includes hardware dispersion language (HDL) code and / or a list of logic gates and interconnections between the logic gates to form an integrated circuit.

The operating software 61 may contain all the data required for operating the test interface parts 38, 39 or 40, that is to say including, for example, transmission rates, voltage levels or the like.

However, it is particularly preferred if the operating software 61 has a predetermined flexibility, that is, for example, operating parameters 59 can be parameterized after loading the operating software 61. The operating parameters 59, e.g. Transmission rates, voltage levels, messages to be monitored on the communication network 16, etc., are advantageously loadable into the basic building units 21, 22 and / or the respective modules 23, 24 and 25.

In a particularly preferred method of configuring the test interface controllers 77 and / or 56, the diagnostic devices 10, 11 cooperate as follows. The modules 23 to 25 expediently transmit their type identifier 62 when plugged into the plug-in receptacles 26 to 29 or, after being interrogated by the respective basic module 21, 22, to the base unit. Assembly 21, 22, in turn, in the diagnostic device 10 or 11, for example, at a diagnostic module present there 64, the operating software 61, for example, an IP core, to query the operation of the respective Prüfschnittstellen controller 77 5. The diagnostic modules 64 determine the respectively suitable operating software 61, for example an operating software 61a for a CAN interface or operating software 61b for a LIN interface, on the basis of the type identifier 62 or any other identification sent by the coupling devices 12, 13 in a memory 142 of the diagnostic devices 10, 11. The diagnostic device 11 transmits, for example, the operating software 61a to the coupling devices 12 for the module 23, which is designed as a CAN module.

Optimum flexibility is given in this way, which is to adapt to the respective communication requirements at the test interface 38, 39 or 40, that is to adapt to a bus protocol, to adapt to pin assignments of the connector 73 or the like are in the coupling devices 12, 13 only the modules 23, 24 or 25 20 replace. The remainder runs automatically, so to speak, that is, the coupling devices 12, 13 receive from the diagnostic device 10 or 11 the respective operating software 61 for operating the test cut parts 38, 39 or 40.

The diagnostic module 64 interacts with the docking devices 25 12, 13 and displays, for example, messages received at the test interfaces 38, 39 and 40 to monitors 65 of the diagnostic devices 10 or 11. The diagnostic module 64 contains program code 140 that can be executed by a processor 141 of the diagnostic devices 10, II.

o Further, it is advantageously possible with the aid of the diagnostic module 64, the coupling devices 12, 13 to control and advantageously to parameterize. For example, parameters of data that are received at the test interface parts 39, 39, 40 may be indicated on input means 66 of the diagnostic devices 10, 11, eg, keyboards, mice, or the like. For example, addresses of CAN messages or the like. The diagnostic devices 10, 11 transmit these default values to the basic building units 21, 22, eg for the parameterization of the test interface controllers 77 and / or for forwarding to the modules 23, 24 or 25 and their parameterization. The default values are, for example, components of the operating parameters 59.

It is expedient that a release key 60 is stored in a memory 63 of the modules 23, 24 or 25. The modules 23, 24 or 25 first transmit the activation key 60 i5 to the basic unit 21, 22, which in turn stores the

Enabling key 60 to the diagnostic device 10 or 11 passes. There, the diagnostic module 64 receives the enable key 60 and enables a predetermined function of the diagnostic module 64, such as one to a protocol

2o the respective Prüfschnittsteile 38, 39 or 40 knotted

Functionality. This functionality is e.g. licensed and can only be used on the diagnostic devices 10 and 11 when it is unlocked by the activation key 60.

The connection means 41 and / or the modules 23-25 expediently contain conversion devices 57, for example for embedding CAN messages in USB messages, for converting CAN messages to USB messages and / or vice versa. The conversion device 57 forms

30 expediently a part of PrüfSchnittstellen- controller 77 and / or the connecting means 41. In principle, it is also possible that conversion units in the Art the conversion units 57 are provided at the modules 23, 24 or 25, for example as components of the controller 56th

It is understood that in a variant of the invention, at least for one of the plug-in receptacles 26, 27, 28 or 29, a fixed or detachably mounted, non-configurable and / or non-parameterizable test interface controller for the respective base assembly 21, 22 one of the test interfaces 38, 39 or 40 may be present, for example a CAN controller. Furthermore, a module according to the invention, such as modules 23-25, may have a non-configurable and / or parameterizable test interface controller instead of a test interface controller 56.

The test interface controllers 77 and / or 56 can form, for example, components of the connection means 41.

The test interface controllers 77 and one diagnostic device controller 46 and 47 each can also be formed by a single module.

A variant of the invention may provide that the basic building units 21, 22 expediently each contain a volatile and / or non-volatile memory 58, for example for storing the operating parameters 59 and / or the operating software 61 for the test interface controller 77 and / or 56 and / or an unlock key 160 for the respective modules 23, 24 and 25.

When inserting a respective module 23, 24 or 25 into one of the plug-in receptacles 26-29 transmits the base assembly 21 or 22 expediently the operating parameters 59th 1

and / or the enabling key 160 and / or the operating software 61 to the module 23, 24 or 25.

With the activation key 160, for example, a function of the module is enabled, for example the execution of a communication protocol at the test interface 38, 39 or 40, which is subject to license. Furthermore, the operating software 61 required for the operation of the respective module 23, 24 or 25 can be loaded completely or partially by the basic module 21, 22 onto the module 23, 24 or 25.

Which operating parameters 59 or operating software 61 for the module 23, 24 or 25 is required, determines the basic unit 21, 22, for example, by the fact that the modules 23, 24 or 25 when plugged into the module interface 37 to their respective i5 type identifier 62 transmit the basic assembly 21 or 22.

It is understood that a variant according to the invention is also possible in which, for example, operating parameters 59 are stored in memories 63 of the modules 23, 24 or 25. The memory 63 is preferably a non-volatile memory, for example a so-called flash memory. The modules 23, 24 and 25 then transfer their respective operating parameters 59 expediently when connecting to the module interfaces 37 to the base assembly 21 or 22.

The basic module 21, 22 transmits the respectively set operating parameters 59, for example the baud rate or the like, as well as expediently also the type identifier 62 to the respectively associated diagnostic device 10, 11. The operating parameters 59 in the memories 58 of the basic modules 21, 22 and / or the memories 63 of the modules 23, 24 or 25 are expediently with the diagnostic devices 10 o 11 of the modules 23, 24 and 25 parameterizable. The diagnosis devices 5, 11 transmit the operating parameters 59 to the basic units 21, 22. The basic units 21, 22, in turn, transmit the operating parameters 59 to the modules 23, 24 or 25, if necessary for storage in the memories 63 ,

Other means, which suitably enable communication between the diagnostic device interfaces 42, 43 and the test interfaces 38, 39 and 40, may be contained in the connection means 41 or the modules 23, 24 and 25.

For example, the connection means 41 of the basic unit 21 include an analog-to-digital converter 67 and a digital-to-analog converter 68. It is also possible for the modules 23, 24 or 25 to include such converters. For example, the module 23 includes an analog / digital converter 69 as well

2o a digital / analog converter 70. The transducers 69, 70 may for example be part of the PrüfSchnittstellen controller 56 of the module 23.

Furthermore, it is expedient to provide galvanic separating means, in particular optocouplers, in the modules 23, 24 or 25 and / or the connecting means 41. For example, the base assembly 22 and the module 23 each include an optocoupler 71 as a galvanic release agent.

It is understood that external optocouplers, such as wired units, to the Prüfschnittsteilen 3o 38, 39 and 40 are connected. The plug-in devices 72 are arranged on front walls 76 of housings 75 of the modules 23-25. For example, the housings 75 are substantially cubic, although other geometries are possible. When the modules 23-25 are plugged into the plug-in receptacles 26-5 29, the front walls 76 together with the front walls 52, 53 of the base units 21, 22 form components of the housings 30, 32 of the base unit 21 and the diagnostic unit 11, respectively , so that closed front sides are formed.

According to the invention, blind modules can be provided in the same external design as the modules 23-25, which merely serve to close the plug-in receptacles 26-29 without communication functionality.

The module 23 will be described in more detail below by way of example for the modules 23-15. With the exception of electrical contacts 78 of plug-in device 72 and plug-in contacts 35, housing 75 is substantially closed. An inventive module can also be realized in a partially open housing construction. The housing 75 is suitably

2o moderately made of plastic and / or metal. On off

Plastic existing housing 75 may have a metal coating or metal layer for electromagnetic shielding. In the present case, the housing 75 consists of two housing parts 79 and 80 which are adhesively bonded and / or ultrasonically sealed.

25 sound welding are firmly connected to each other and protect an interior 81 in which printed circuit boards 82, 83 are arranged with, for example, the communication transceiver 48. The circuit boards 82, 83 are, for example, by post connectors, not shown, and / or by a flexible conductor

3o web arrangement 84 connected to each other. Expediently, components arranged on the printed circuit boards 82, 83, for example the communication transceiver 48, are arranged on opposite sides 115, 116 in the installed state (see FIG. 2).

The printed circuit board 82 is used for electrical contacting of the plug-in device 72. For example, electrical contact pins 85 of the plug-in device 72 are soldered to the printed circuit board 82.

The plug-in contacts 35 for plugging into the sockets 36 of the module interfaces 37 are arranged on the printed circuit board 83, in particular on the rear end side thereof and designed as electrical contact surfaces 118, expediently as edge contacts or edge contacts. The sockets 36 are configured, for example, as an angle plug, which are soldered to the plug-in card 31 and a printed circuit board 89 of the base assembly 21.

The printed circuit board 83 penetrates a rear end face of the housing 75, so that it protrudes in front of the housing 75 in the region of the plug contacts 35 and when inserting the module 23 into one of the plug receptacles 26-29 in the socket 36 on the respective base assembly 21, 22nd engages and establishes an electrical connection. However, the plug contacts 35 are set back relative to a rear end wall 87 of the housing 75. The plug contacts 35 are advantageously arranged in a recess 88 of the housing 75, so that the plug contacts 35 are not damaged.

For easier insertion in the plug-in receptacles 26-29 modules according to the invention advantageously lateral and / or upper and / or lower inclined surfaces. For example, the housings 75 have lateral inclined surfaces 117. The plug receptacles 26-29 have electromagnetically shielding cages, which consist for example of metallically coated plastic. In the present case, however, the cages 90 are made of metal and expediently as stamped and bent parts. The cages 90 have a substantially cubic shape and connect directly to the front walls 52, 53 of the base units 21, 22 at. For example, the cages 90 are glued to the front walls 52, 53, infected, welded or otherwise fastened. In the present case plug-in projections 91 of the cages 90 in receptacles 92 on the front walls 52, 53 and the plug-in card 31 and the printed circuit board 89 of the base assemblies 21, 22 inserted. Unlike in the drawing (for example, FIG. 7), the plug-in projections 91 can be bent over after insertion or insertion into the receptacles 92, so that the cages 90 hold securely against the front walls 52, 53 or the printed circuit boards 31 and 89.

The plug contacts 35 and the plug-in device 72 are arranged on opposite sides of the module 23. In principle, it is also possible that, for example, lateral contacts, e.g. Sliding contacts or the like, for contacting with a module interface of a base assembly according to the invention in a module according to the invention are present.

A guide and / or holding spring assembly 93 guides the modules 23-25 when inserted into the respective plug-in receptacle 26-29 and holds the module 23-25, suitably resilient. From the cage 90, spring parts 94 of the holding spring arrangement 93 project inwards into the plug-in receptacles 26-29, which upon insertion of the modules 23-25 into the plug-in receptacles 26-29 on the upper side and expediently at one or both Slide side surfaces of the housing 79 along. The spring parts 94 are suitably formed in one piece by the cages 90.

It is understood that when plug-in receptacles according to the invention also not shown in the drawing rigid, that is 5 non-resilient guiding and / or holding devices, can be provided for guiding or holding modules of the invention.

When inserting the modules 23-25 into the plug-in receptacles 26-29 an ejection spring arrangement 95 is stretched, which facilitates a Entneh- lo men of the modules 23-25 of the basic assemblies 21 and 22. The spring assembly 95 includes e.g. two spring parts 96 arranged on the rear side of the plug-in receptacle 26-29. The spring parts 96 are advantageously formed in one piece by the cages 90. The spring parts 96 are for example i5 spring tongues, which are articulated resiliently on the narrow sides of the cages 90. The spring parts 96 extend above the socket 36. They project from opposite narrow sides of the cages 90 into the plug-in receptacles 26-29. The spring assembly 95 is when inserting the modules 23-25

20 in plug receptacles 26-29 biased in the sense of ejection from the respective plug receptacle 26-29.

So that this ejection does not happen unintentionally and the modules 23-25 are reliably held in the plug receptacles 26-29, locking arrangements 97 are provided. The Ver-

25 locking arrangements 97 lock the modules 23-25 in the plug receptacles 26-29. The locking assemblies 97 form a strain relief. For example, when pulling on the cable 74 while the connector 73 is plugged into the connector 72, the module 23 remains

3o or 24 reliably in the socket 26 and 28, the means the locking assembly 97 forms a strain relief.

In the context of the invention, it is in principle possible to secure or lock the modules 23-25 by means of screws, slide bolts or the like 5 in the plug-in receptacles 26-29.

However, the locking arrangement 97 is advantageously designed as a latching arrangement, which is also particularly easy to use. The locking arrangement 97 automatically locks or locks automatically when the modules 23-25 are inserted into the plug-in receptacles 26-29.

Locking projections 98 on spring parts 99, which are components of module locking means 100, engage in latching recesses 101 of the plug-in receptacles 26-29. The recesses 101, the plug-in receptacle locking means are, for example, i5 on the cages 90. Rear portions 102 of the spring members 99, which are suitably made of metal, are received in receptacles 103 of the housing 75, for example, as a kind of pockets on the side walls the housing parts 79, 80 are formed. When assembling the housing parts 79, 80th

2o engage in the figure invisible projections of the housing parts 79, 80 in recesses 104 on the spring parts 99 to keep them safely in the receptacles 103.

A conceivable variant, not shown in the figure, can provide that resilient locking means in the manner of the spring parts 25 99 are integrally formed by a housing, not shown, of a module according to the invention.

The latching projections 98 are formed on front side portions 105 of the spring members 99. The latching projections 98 are bevelled in such a way that the spring parts which are attached to one another genübergesetzten narrow sides of the module 23 are arranged displaced and biased when plugged into a socket 26-29 in the direction of the housing 75, so that when the module 23 is completely inserted into the socket 26-29, in the recesses 101st engage and prevent withdrawal of the module from the plug receptacles 26-29.

This extraction requires an active operator intervention, which is very easy from the front 33, 34 ago. Namely, the latch assembly 97 is advantageously operable from the front side of the module 23 and the base assembly 21, 22, respectively.

At the front portions 106 of the spring members 99 extending at the front of the modules 23-25, actuating means are arranged, e.g. Operating projections or the like. Advantageously, the actuating means comprise, for example, screw receptacles 107 of the plug-in device 72. The screw receptacles 107 project in front of the front sections 106, so that they can be gripped by an operator. By an actuation in the direction of a plug housing 108 of the plug-in device 72, the spring parts 99 arranged on opposite sides of the module 23 can be moved towards the housing 75 so that the latching projections 98 are disengaged from the latching recesses 101 and the module 23 from the plug-in receptacle 26 -29 can be pulled out.

An adjustment path 109 of the front portions 106 in the direction of the release position in which the latching projections 98 come out of the latching recesses 101 is limited by the plug housing 108. Conveniently, the front portions 106 are adapted to the contour of the plug housing 108, for example, by means of the spring parts 99 prepared aperture 110, suitably made of plastic. Between an adapted to the shape of the plug housing 108 inner contour 111 of the aperture 110 and the connector housing 108, a gap 112 is present. When the plug connector 73 is plugged into the plug-in device 72, it penetrates into the distance or

Gap 112, so that the adjustment path 109 is blocked in the direction of the release position of the latch assembly 97.

The panels 110 and / or the front walls 16 expediently form stops which abut against the front walls 52, 53 of the base units 21, 22 when inserting the modules 23-25 into the plug-in receptacles 26-29.

Further, adjustment of the latch assembly 97 to the release position by bolts, e.g. Screws 113, the connector 73 advantageously prevents the in the

Screw 107 are screwed to the spring parts 99.

The screw receptacles 107 thus have expediently multiple functionalities, namely the reliable attachment of the connector 73 to the plug 72nd Furthermore, they serve as operating means for unlocking the locking assembly 97 and as blocking means, the locking assembly 97 in the module 23 on the socket 26 locking position stops.

The housing 30 of the base assembly 21 has a first and second housing part 120, 121, suitably made of metal or plastic. The housing part 121 forms, as it were, a base of the housing 30 with an underside and at least one side wall. The housing part 122 forms a cover for the housing part 121. The housing parts 120, 121 clamp on the one hand, the front wall 53 and on the other hand, a rear end wall 122 which on one of the front wall 53 opposite narrow side of the housing 30. Between the housing parts 120, 121 and the walls 53, 122 is a seal arrangement 5 123 arranged. The seal assembly 123, suitably made of elastic plastic material or rubber, holds the walls 53, 122, so that they are connected without play and advantageously elastically with the housing parts 120, 121. Furthermore, an inner space 124 of the housing 30 is substantially tightly sealed.

An advantageous variant of the invention provides that an optical display device and / or, as shown in FIG. 9, an optical waveguide section 125 for an optical display device 126 is arranged on the seal arrangement 123. The display device 126 includes, for example, LEDs or other lighting means for displaying an operating state of the coupling device 12.

The light guide section 125 is, for example, on a narrow side of the housing 30 between the housing parts 120,

20 121 arranged and directs light of the display device 126 from the interior 124 to the outside of the housing 30. The light guide section 125 is inserted, for example, in the seal assembly 123. It is particularly preferred if the optical waveguide section 125 is inserted into the sealing arrangement 123.

25 buttons, for example dovetailed.

The coupling devices 12, 13 suitably contain synchronization means 130 for the time synchronization of the diagnostic devices 10, 11 with the device 14 to be tested. For example, a synchronization cable 131 for connecting o to the communication network 16 on synchronization connectors 132 on the front walls 52, 53 of the basic assemblies , 22 are connected.

Claims

claims

1. coupling device for coupling a diagnostic device (10, 11) to a communication interface (50, 51) of a device to be tested (14) having a base assembly

5 (21, 22), which has a diagnostic device interface (42, 43) with a diagnostic device communication controller (46, 47) for connecting the diagnostic device (10, 11), and with at least one receptacle (26). 29) of the base assembly (21, 22) attachable module (23-25) having a communication onstransceiver for forming a Prüfschnittsteile (38-40) for the communication interface (50, 51) of the device under test (14) in which the coupling device (12, 13) receives data received at the test interface (38-40) at the diagnostic device interface (42, 43) and / or at the diagnostic interface (42, 43) on the test interface (38-40), characterized in that the base unit (21, 22) and / or the at least one module (23-25) at least one by a loadable operating software (61) for communicating with the communication

20 cut portions (50, 51) of the device under test (14) configurable PrüfSchnittstellen controller (56, 77).

2. Coupling device according to claim l, characterized in that the operating software (61) of the diagnostic device (10, 11) on the coupling device (12, 13) loadable

25 is.

3. Coupling device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the diagnostic device interface (42, 43) for transmitting a type identifier (61) of the at least one module (23-25) to the diagnostic device (10, 11) for interrogating

5 operating software (61) is configured.

4. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one module (23-25) comprises a plug-in device (72) for connecting a connector (73) for connection to the communication onsschnittstelle (50, 51).

5. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base assembly (21, 22) connecting means (41) for connecting the diagnostic device communication controller (46, 47) with a mod- s cut parts (37) for electrical and / or optical connection of the at least one module (23-25).

6. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a conversion unit (57) for converting the data transmitted to the diagnostic device interface (42, 43) data for the test interface (38-40) and / or conversely.

7. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base assembly (21, 22) and / or the at least one module (23-25) has a 5 analog / digital converter (67, 69) and / or a Digital / analog converter (68, 70) and / or galvanic separation means (71).

8. coupling device (12, 13) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base Assembly (21, 22) for determining a type identifier (61) of the at least one module (23-25) is configured.

9. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that in the at least one

A first and at least one second type of test interface (38-40) can be parameterized for adaptation to a respective communication interface (50, 51) of a device to be tested.

10. Coupling device according to one of the preceding An lo pro claims, characterized in that the base assembly

(21, 22) for transmitting operating parameters (59) and / or an enabling key (60) and / or operating software (61) to the at least one module (23-25) or for receiving them from the at least one module (23-25). 25) is configured, in particular automatically when the at least one module (23-25) is connected to the module interface (37).

11. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the basic structural unit (21, 22) and / or that the at least one module (23-25) an

20 NEN memory (58, 63) for storing operating parameters (59) and / or a release key (60) and / or the operating software (61).

12. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a front wall (52,

25 53) of the base assembly (21, 22) forms part of a housing (30) of the base assembly (21, 22) or for forming a housing (32) of the diagnostic device (10, 11) is provided that the front wall (52, 53) of the base assembly (21, 22) at least one insertion opening (54, 55) for

30 has at least one module (23-25), and that the mini- at least one module (23-25) can be inserted from the front side (33, 34) of the housing (30, 32) through the insertion opening (54, 55) into the plug-in receptacle (26-29).

13. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims 5 claims, characterized in that the base assembly

(22) comprises a housing (30) separate from the diagnostic device (10, 11) or designed as a plug-in card (31) for the diagnostic device (10, 11)

14. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the base assembly

(21, 22) optionally a first module (23-25) having a test interface (38-40) for a communication interface (50, 51) of a first type or a second module (23-25) having a test section (38-40) for a communication i5 cut parts (50, 51) of a second type can be arranged.

15. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the module (23-25) on an alternative basic assembly (21, 22) can be arranged.

16. An interface device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one diagnostic device interface (42, 43) comprises a USB interface and / or a PCI interface and / or a FireWire interface.

17. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims 25, characterized in that the test interface

(38-40) comprises a bus interface, in particular a CAN bus interface, a LIN bus interface or a Flexray interface.

18. Diagnostic module for interacting with a coupling device (12, 13) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the coupling device (12, 13) for coupling a diagnostic device (10, 11) to a communication interface

5 (50, 51) of a device (14) to be tested, the diagnostic device (10, 11) having a processor (141) for executing program code (140) of the diagnostic module (64), wherein the coupling device (12, 13) comprises a basic module (21, 22) having a diagnostic device interface lo (42, 43) with a diagnostic device communication controller

(46, 47) for connecting the diagnostic device (10, 11), and at least one of a plug-in receptacle (26-29) of the base assembly (21, 22) attachable module (23-25), the communication transceiver to form a Comprises test interface i5 (38-40) for the communication interface (50, 51) of the device under test (14), and wherein the coupling device (12, 13) at the test interface parts (38- 40) received data at the diagnostic device interface (42, 43) and / or at the diagnostic device interface (42, 43).

20 starts at the test interface (38-40), characterized in that the diagnostic module (64) for sending operating software (61) for at least one Prüfschnittstel- len controller (56, 77) of the basic unit (21, 22) and / or the at least one module (23-25), wherein

25, the test interface controller (56, 77) is configurable by the loadable operating software (61) for communicating with the communication interface (50, 51) of the device under test (14).

19. Diagnostic module (64) according to claim 18, characterized

30 illustrates that it forms part of the diagnostic device (10, 11).

20. A method for adapting a coupling device (12, 13) according to one of claims 1 to 17 to a to a communication interface (50, 51) of a device to be tested (14), wherein the coupling device (12, 13) for docking 5 coupling a diagnostic device (10, 11) is provided, wherein the coupling device (12, 13) a base assembly (21, 22) having a diagnostic device interface (42, 43) with a diagnostic device communication controller (46, 47) for connecting the Diagnostic device (10, 11), and at least one on lo a plug-in receptacle (26-29) of the base assembly (21, 22) attachable module (23-25), the communication transceiver for forming a Prüfschnittsteile (38-40) for the communication interface (50, 51) of the device (14) to be tested, and wherein the coupling device (12, i5 13) receives data received at the test section (38-40) at the diagnostic device interface (42, 43) and / or at the diagnostic device interface elle (42, 43) outputs received data at the test interface (38-40), with the steps:

- Sending an operating software (61) for at least one

2o test interface controller (56, 77) of the base assembly (21, 22) and / or the at least one module (23-25) of the diagnostic device (10, 11) to the coupling device (12, 13), and

- Loading the operating software (61) in the at least one

25 test interface controller (56, 77) for configuring the at least one test interface controller (56, 77) for communication with the communication interface (50, 51) of the device under test (14).