WO2007110159A1

WO2007110159A1 - Coupling apparatus having a pluggable module for coupling a diagnostic device

Info

Publication number: WO2007110159A1
Application number: PCT/EP2007/002314
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jürgen RAUSCHENBERGER
Original assignee: Vector Informatik Gmbh
Priority date: 2006-03-27
Filing date: 2007-03-16
Publication date: 2007-10-04
Also published as: DE102006013944B3

Abstract

The invention relates to a coupling apparatus (12, 13) for coupling a diagnostic device (10, 11) to a communication interface (50, 51) of a device to be tested (14), for example a communication network (16) of a motor vehicle, said apparatus having a basic modular unit (21, 22), which has a diagnostic device interface (42, 43) for connecting the diagnostic device, and having at least one module (23-25) which can be plugged to a plug receptacle (26-29) of the basic modular unit (21, 22), at least partially forms a testing interface (38-40) for connecting the communication interface (50, 51) and can be connected to a module interface (37) of the basic modular unit (21, 22).

Description

Vector Informatik GmbH Ingersheimer Straße 24, D-70499 Stuttgart

Coupling device with pluggable module for coupling a diagnostic device

The invention relates to 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 module, which has a diagnostic device interface for connecting the diagnostic device, and with at least one module which can be attached to a plug-in receptacle of the basic module and which at least partially forms a test section for connecting the communication interface and can be connected to a module interface of the basic module, the module interface being connected electrically and / or optically with the diagnostic device. Interface is connected by connecting means and wherein a front wall of the base unit forms a part of i5 nes housing of the base unit or is provided for forming a housing of the diagnostic device.

With the aid of the coupling device, the diagnostic device can be connected to the device to be tested, for example a motor vehicle. The basic module has, for example, a separate housing from the diagnosis device or is realized as a plug-in card which can be plugged into the diagnostic device, for example a personal computer. The module is used for adaptation to a respective communication interface of the device to be tested and contains, for example, at least one CAN transceiver or a LIN transceiver (CAN = Control Area Network, LIN = Local Interconnect Network). The module is realized as a plug-in board, that is to say as a so-called piggy-board, which can be connected to a carrier board of the basic module. The known module can be replaced only cumbersome and therefore usually remains on the base unit

It is therefore the object of the present invention in a coupling device of the type mentioned to realize an easy interchangeability of at least one plug-in module.

To achieve the object is provided in coupling device of the aforementioned type, that the front wall of the base assembly has an insertion opening for the at least one module, that the at least one module from the front of the housing through the insertion is inserted into the socket, and that the test cut parts comprises a plug-in device arranged on the front side of the at least one module for connecting a plug connector for connection to the communication interface of the device to be tested.

The communication interface of the device to be tested is, for example, a communications network of a motor vehicle. The diagnosis device is, for example, a personal computer. By way of example, the basic module accommodated in a housing separate from the diagnostic device or configured as a plug-in card for a diagnostic device can be easily adapted to the respective communication requirements at the test interface by inserting the module according to the invention. The housing of the respective device, for example the diagnostic device or the device ratem housing equipped basic unit, does not need to be opened. The module can be plugged into the respective housing from the front. Conveniently, the plug-in receptacle is configured such that the module can be inserted into the plug-in receptacle only in a predetermined rotational position that correctly produces the electrical and / or optical contacts with the module interface.

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 different from the PrüfSchnittstelle, for example, a LIN interface, a 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.

For example, optionally a first module or a second module can be connected to the base module, which realize different types of test interface parts for different types of communication interfaces. For example, a first module has a CAN interface and a second module has a LIN interface. Other interfaces are realized by the interchangeable modules, such as Flexray like. It is possible in this way to provide various communication protocols, different physical layers, different voltage levels or the like in the module used in each case. Furthermore, the module according to the invention can be used very flexibly, for example once with a basic module designed as a plug-in card or, alternatively, with a base module which is accommodated in a housing separate from the diagnostic device. Furthermore, basic building units with exemplary example, different housing types conceivable, in which, for example, more (eg 8) or less (eg 2) modules according to the invention can be inserted.

The plug-in receptacle is advantageously at least partially designed as an electromagnetic shielding cage, so that the plugged into the plug-in module is electromagnetically protected from environmental influences. It is also advantageous in the case of the module that it has a substantially closed housing, on which only electrical and / or optical contacts are guided to the outside. The housing is made of metal and / or plastic, for example. The housing is advantageously closed tightly by ultrasonic welding, gluing or the like.

The electrical contacts of the module for connection to the module interface of the basic module are advantageously designed as electrical contact surfaces on a printed circuit board of the module, e.g. as so-called edge contacts. The printed circuit board advantageously penetrates a housing wall of a housing of the module, that is to say it projects in front of the housing in the region of the contacts. Additional connectors for the module interface are then not required on the module.

The module advantageously contains a first and at least one second printed circuit board. The printed circuit boards are connected to one another, for example with plug contacts and / or via a flexible strip conductor arrangement. Thus, an optimal placement or an optimal degree of filling of the at least one module with electrical and / or optical components is possible. For example, it is conceivable that one printed circuit board has the above-mentioned edge contacts, while another printed circuit board Having connections for the Prüfschnittsteile, in particular the plug-in device of the Prüfschnittsteile.

Advantageously, a locking arrangement for locking the at least one module to the plug-in receptacle is present on the at least one module and on the plug-in receptacle. The locking arrangement also forms a strain relief, which prevents withdrawal of the module from the plug-in receptacle. As a locking arrangement, for example screws, sliding bolt and advantageously Rastlo medium can serve. Expediently, the locking arrangement can be operated from the front, that is to say it can be brought into a release position by operation on the front side of the housing by a locking position locking the at least one module of a plug-in receptacle, expediently also vice versa. Advantageously, however, locks the locking assembly automatically when the module is inserted into the socket. Alternatively, a manual locking would be conceivable.

The locking arrangement is advantageously stuck by attaching or screwing the screw connector to the

Plug-in device of the test section parts locked. Thus, no separate operating action is required for the locking, that is to say when the plug connector of the communication interface of the device to be tested is attached to the module and / or screwed into a screw receptacle on the plug device, the locking arrangement is automatically locked, as it were ,

A particularly preferred variant of the invention provides that the locking arrangement has at least one module detent means which is spring-mounted on the at least one module and which engages in the plug-in receptacle when the module is plugged in locked with plug-in locking means in the locking position. It is particularly preferred if in each case a module locking means is present on opposite sides of the module. The module latching means is, for example, a spring clip with a latching projection or a latching recess, which interact with a corresponding latching recess or with a latching projection of the plug-in receptacle.

It is understood that a resilient latching means can also be provided on at least one Steckaufnähme.

The spring clip advantageously has a front section on the front side of the module, which is held in the locking position by plugging or screwing the connector of the communication interface of the device under test to the plug-in device of the test section parts. At the front portion, for example, a screw receptacle is arranged, into which a retaining screw of the connector is screwed.

An adjustment path of the front section in the direction of the release order, that is to say when unlocking the locking arrangement, is advantageously limited by the plug-in device, for example a socket or the plug-in connector of the device to be tested.

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

Figure 1 is a partial schematic view with two diagnostic devices, which via a first and a second inventive coupling device to a testing device are connected 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 open perspective view from the front, with an upper housing part and an upper board lo 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 type i5 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.

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, for example 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, for example, a motor vehicle 15 with a communication network 16, to which the diagnostic devices 10, 11 are connected via the coupling devices 12, 13. The communication network 16, for example a CAN bus or another bus, is used for communication between control devices 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 coupling devices 12, 13 makes it possible for the modules 23, 24, 25 or further modules, not illustrated, to be accommodated in plug-in receptacles 26, 27 of the base modules.

Assembly 21 or plug-in receptacles 28, 29 of the base assembly 22 can be inserted. The modules 23, 24 are modules for a communication 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, e.g. 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 goes without saying that basic assemblies according to the invention can also have only one or more than two plug-in receptacles. The modules 23-25 can be inserted from the front, that is, from the front sides 33, 34 of the base units 21, 22 in the plug receptacles 26-29. In this case, an electrical 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 is produced.

Then test interfaces 38, 39, and 40 of the coupling 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 units 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 diagnosis devices 10, 11 output data on the communication network 16 via the coupling devices 12, 13, that is to say that the coupling devices 12, 13 receive data received at the diagnostic device interfaces 42, 43 Print test cuts 38-40. The connection means 41 contain 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 11 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 contain a plug-in device 72 for connecting connectors 73 to cables 74, which are arranged on cables 74 in order to connect the communication interfaces 50, 51 with the test-cut parts 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, even for user-specific communication networks, can form components of modules according to the invention, eg different CAN transceivers 5 types.

Furthermore, in a module according to the invention, direct electrical and / or optical connections between the front-side connections or contacts of the test-cut parts and the contacts for the module interface of the basic module 10 are possible.

A front wall 52 of the base assembly 21 forms components of the housing 30. A front wall 53 of the base assembly 22 forms a part of the housing 32 of the diagnostic device 11 in the assembled state. The modules 23-25 nen by insertion openings 54, 55 on the front walls 52, 53 are inserted into the plug-in receptacles 26-29.

The test interface parts 38, 39, and 40 include test interface controllers 77 and / or 56. The test interface controllers 77 are attached to the base assemblies 21 and / or 22

2o arranged. 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 complement one another.

25 zende functions. For example, if only the test interface controllers 77 are present, instead of the modules 23-25, modules not shown may be used that do not have a test interface controller for operating the respective test interface parts 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 configured 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), 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 include all of the data required to operate the test interfaces 38, 39, or 40, such as, for example, transfer 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, for example transmission rates, voltage levels, messages to be monitored on the communications network 16, etc., are advantageously loadable into the basic modules 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- 25 transfer suitably their type identifier 62 when plugged into the plug receptacles 26-29 automatically or after retrieval by the respective base unit 21, 22 to the base unit 21, 22, which in turn in the diagnostic device 10 or 11, for example at a There existing diagnostic module 64, the operating software 61, for example, an IP core, to query the operation of the respective test interface controller 77. The diagnostic modules 64 determine the appropriate operating software 61, e.g. an operating software 61a for a CAN interface or operating software 61b for a LIN interface, based on the type identifier 62 or other sent by the coupling devices 12, 13 identification 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 provided in this way, that is to adapt to the respective communication requirements at the test section parts 38, 39 or 40, that is to adapt to a bus protocol, to adapt to pin assignments of the connector 73 or the like, in the case of lungsvorrichtungen 12, 13 only the modules 23, 24 or 25 replace. The remainder expires automatically, that is, the coupling devices 12, 13 receive from the diagnostic device 10 or 11 the respective operating software 61 for operating the test interfaces 38, 39 or 40.

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

Furthermore, it is advantageously possible with the aid of the diagnostic module 64 to control the coupling devices 12, 13 and to parameterize them advantageously. For example, on input means 66 of the diagnostic devices 10, 11, e.g. Keyboards, mice or the like parameters of data to be received at the test interfaces 39, 39, 40, for example, addresses of CAN messages or the like. The diagnostic devices 10, 11 transmit these default values to the basic units 21, 22, e.g. for the parameterization of the test interface controller 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 to the basic assembly 21, 22, which in turn transmits the release key 60 to the diagnosis apparatus 10 or 11. There, the diagnostic module 64 receives the unlock key 60 and switches a predetermined function of the Diagnostic module 64 free, for example, a linked to a protocol of the respective test interface 38, 39 or 40 functionality. This functionality is, for example, subject to license and can only be used on the diagnostic devices 10 and 11 when it is enabled 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 expediently forms part of the test interface controller 77 and / or the connection means 41. It is also possible in principle for conversion units in the form of the conversion units 57 to be provided in the modules 23, 24 or 25, for example as components of the controllers 56 ,

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 may, for example, form components of the connection means 41. The test interface controllers 77 and a respective diagnostic device controller 46 and 47 may also be formed by a single assembly.

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 in one of the plug receptacles 26-29 transmits the base unit 21 or 22 expediently the operating parameters 59 and / or the enable key 160 and / or the operating software 61 to the module 23, 24 or 25th

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 wholly or partly loaded 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 their respective type identifier 62 to the basic Unit 21 or 22 transmit. 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 nonvolatile 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, and 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 units 21, 22 and / or the memories 63 of the modules 23, 24 or 25 are expediently be parameterized with the diagnostic units 10 or 11 in the modules 23, 24 and 25. The diagnostic devices 10, 11 transmit the operating parameters 59 to the basic units 21, 22. The basic units 21, 22, in turn, send the operating parameters 59 to the modules 23, 24 or 25, where appropriate for storage in the memories 63.

Further means, which expediently permit communication between the diagnostic device interfaces 42, 43 and the test interfaces 38, 39 and 40, can be contained in the connection means 41 or the modules 23, 24 and 25.

For example, the connection means 41 of the basic module 21 include an analog / digital converter 67 and a digital / analog converter 68. It is also possible for the modules 23, 24 or 25 to contain such converters. For example For example, the module 23 includes an analog-to-digital converter 69 and a digital-to-analog converter 70. The transducers 69, 70 may be part of the test interface controller 56 of the module 23, for example.

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 test interface parts 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. The housings 75 are i5 e.g. essentially cubic, although other geometries are possible. When the modules 23-25 are plugged into the plug-in receptacles 26-29, 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 or

2o of the diagnostic device 11, so that closed front sides are formed.

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

Hereinafter, the module 23 will be described in more detail by way of example for the modules 23-25. With the exception of electrical contacts 78 of plug-in device 72 and plug-in contacts 35, housing 75 is substantially closed. An inventive However, the corresponding module can also be realized in a partially open housing construction. The housing 75 is expediently made of plastic and / or metal. An existing plastic 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 firmly connected to each other by gluing and / or ultrasonic welding and protect an interior 81 in which printed circuit boards 82, 83 are arranged with, for example, the communication transceiver 48. The printed circuit boards 82, 83 are connected to each other, for example, by post connectors, not shown, and / or by a flexible printed conductor arrangement 84.

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 serves to make electrical contact with 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 the module 23 is plugged into one of the plug receptacles 26-29, into the socket 36 on the respective 5 basic module 21, 22 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 lo 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-in 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

20 see shape and close 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 secured. In the present case, plug-in projections 91 of the casing are

25 fige 90 in receptacles 92 on the front walls 52, 53 and the plug-in card 31 and the printed circuit board 89 of the basic units 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 securely on the front walls 52, 53 or the printed circuit boards 31 and 89 hold. 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, for example sliding contacts or the like, are available for the purpose of clocking with a module interface of a basic module according to the invention in a module according to the invention.

A guide and / or holding spring assembly 93 guides the modules 23-25 when inserted into the respective plug-in receptacle 26- lo 29 and holds the module 23-25, suitably resilient. From the cage 90 are spring parts 94 of the holding spring assembly 93 inwardly into the plug receptacles 26-29 before, which when plugging the modules 23-25 in the plug receptacles 26-29 on the O- berseite and expediently on one or both sides i5 sliding surfaces of the housing 79 along. The spring parts 94 are expediently formed in one piece by the cages 90.

It is understood that when plug-in receptacles according to the invention also in the drawing, not shown rigid, that is 20 non-resilient guide 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 assembly 95 is tensioned, which is a

2s men of the modules 23-25 from the base assemblies 21 and 22 facilitates. 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

30 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 in the plug receptacles 26-29. The spring arrangement 95 is biased when plugging in the modules 23-25 in plug-in receptacles 26-29 in the sense of ejection from the respective 5-th socket 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 locking assemblies 97 lock the modules 23-25 in the lo receptacles 26-29. The locking assemblies 97 form a strain relief. For example, if the cable 74 is being pulled while the connector 73 is plugged into the connector 72, the module 23 or 24 will remain reliably in the socket 26 and 28, respectively, i5 the latch assembly 97 will provide 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, sliding bolts or the like in the plug receptacles 26-29.

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

2s latching projections 98 on spring parts 99, which are components of module locking means 100, engage in recesses 101 of the plug receptacles 26-29. The latching recesses 101, which form plug-in receptacle locking means, are located, for example, on the cages 90. Rear areas 102 of the spring parts 99,

30 which suitably consist of metal, are in recordings 103 of the housing 75, which are formed for example as a kind of pockets on the side walls of the housing parts 79, 80. When assembling the housing parts 79, 80, projections of the housing parts 79, 80 which are not visible in the figure engage in recesses 104 on the spring parts 99 in order to hold them securely in the receptacles 103.

A conceivable variant, not shown in the figure, can provide that resilient latching means in the manner of the spring parts 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 chamfered such that the spring parts, which are arranged on opposite narrow sides of the module 23 are displaced and biased upon insertion into a socket 26-29 in the direction of the housing 75, so that when the module 23 is completely in the plug-in receptacle 26-29 is inserted, engage in the recesses 101 and prevent withdrawal of the module from the plug-in 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 front portions 106 of the spring members 99, which extend at the front of the modules 23-25, actuating means are arranged, such as operating projections or the like. Advantageously, the actuating means comprise, for example, screw receptacles 107 of the plug-in device 72. 107 are in front of the front portions 106 so that they can be grasped by an operator. By 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 disengage from the latching recesses 101 and the module 23 leaves the module 23 Plug socket 26-29 can be pulled out.

An adjustment path 109 of the front sections 106 in the direction of the release position in which the latching projections 98 exit from 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, prepared by the spring members 99 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 clearance or intermediate space 112, so that the adjustment path 109 is blocked in the direction of the release position of the latching arrangement 97.

The panels 110 and / or the front walls 76 expediently form stops which abut against the front walls 52, 53 of the base units 21, 22 upon insertion of the modules 23-25 into the plug-in receptacles 26-29.

Furthermore, an adjustment of the locking arrangement 97 in the release position by bolts, eg screws 113, of the connector 73 is advantageously prevented, which are screwed into the screw receptacles 107 on the spring parts 99. The screw receptacles 107 thus have expediently multiple functionalities, namely the reliable attachment of the connector 73 to the plug-in device 72. Furthermore, they serve as operating means for unlocking the locking arrangement 97 and as blocking means, the locking assembly 97 in the module 23 to the socket 26th locking latching position holds.

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, on one of the front wall 53 opposite narrow side of the housing 30. Between the housing parts 120, 121 and the walls 53rd 122, a sealing arrangement 123 is 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 interior 124 of the housing 30 is substantially sealed tight.

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 a Betriebszu- state of the coupling device 12th The light guide section 125 is arranged, for example, on a narrow side of the housing 30 between the housing parts 120, 121 and transmits 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 arrangement 123. Particularly preferred is when the optical fiber portion 125 is buttoned into the seal assembly 123, for example, dovetailed.

The coupling devices 12, 13 suitably contain synchronization means 130 for time synchronization of the diagnostic devices 10, 11 with the device 14 to be tested. For example, a synchronization cable 131 for connection to the communication network 16 on synchronization plug connectors 132 on the front walls 52, 53 of the basic assemblies 21 , 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) with a base assembly (21, 22) having a diagnostic device interface (42, 43) for s Connection of the diagnostic device (10, 11), and with at least one of a plug-in receptacle (26-29) of the base assembly (21, 22) attachable module (23-25) having a PrüfSchnittstelle (38-40) for connecting the Communication interface (50, 51) at least partially forms and can be connected to a lo module interface (37) of the basic module (21, 22), wherein the module interface (37) electrically and / or optically with the diagnostic device interface (42, 43) is connected by connecting means (41) and wherein a front wall (52, 53) of the base assembly (21, 22) forms an integral part of a housing (30) of the base assembly (21, 22) or for formation a housing (32) of the diagnostic device (10, 11) is provided thereby in that the front wall (52, 53) of the base assembly (21, 22) has an insertion opening (54, 55) for the at least one module (23, 22).

20 25), that the at least one module (23-25) from the front side (33, 34) of the housing (30, 32) forth through the insertion opening (54, 55) into the plug receptacle (26-29) can be inserted in that the test cut parts (38-40) are provided on the front side (33, 34) of the at least one module (23-34).

25 25) arranged plug means (72) for connection of a connector (73) for connection to the communication interface (50, 51) of the device to be tested comprises.

2. Coupling device according to claim 1, characterized in that the plug-in receptacle (26-29) has an at least partially electromagnetic shielding cage (90).

3. Coupling device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the at least one module (23-25) with the exception of electrical and / or optical contacts (78, 35) closed housing (75).

4. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that electrical contacts (35) of the at least one module (23-25) for connection to the module interface (37) of the base assembly (21, 22) as e- lectric contact surfaces ( 118) are formed on an electrical circuit board (83) of the at least one module (23-25).

5. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one module (23-25) has a first and a second printed circuit board (82, 83) which are connected via a flexible strip conductor arrangement (84).

6. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on the at least one module (23-25) and on the plug-in receptacle (26-29) has a locking arrangement (97) for locking the at least one module (23-25) on the Plug-in receptacle (26-29) is present.

7. A coupling device according to claim 6, characterized in that the locking arrangement (97) by an operator on the front side (76) of a housing (75) of the at least one module of the at least one module (23- 25) on the plug-in receptacle (26-29) locking locking position can be brought into a release position.

8. Coupling device according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the locking arrangement (97) through

5 plugging and / or screwing the connector (73) to the plug-in device (72) of the PrüfSchnittstelle (38-40) can be locked.

9. Coupling device according to one of claims 6 to 8, characterized in that the locking arrangement (97) lo at least one on the at least one module (23-25) resiliently hinged module locking means (100), which upon insertion of the at least one module (23-25) in the plug-in receptacle (26-29) locked with a plug-in locking means in the locking position.

i5

10. Coupling device according to claim 9, characterized in that the at least one module latching means (100) has a spring part (99) with a at the front of the at least one module (23-25) arranged front portion (106) by plugging and / or screwing on the plug

20 connector (73) to the plug-in device (72) of the Prüfschnittsteile (38-40) is held in the locked position.

11. Coupling device according to claim 10, characterized in that on the front portion (106) has a screw receptacle (107) of the plug-in device (72) of the PrüfSchnittstelle

25 (38-40) is arranged.

12. Coupling device according to claim 10 or 11, characterized in that an adjustment path (109) of the front portion (106) in the direction of the release position by the plug-in device (72), in particular a socket, or the plug-in device (72) plugged connector (73) and / or by at least one screwed into the screw receptacle (107) according to claim 10 bolt (113) of the connector (73) is limited.

5 13. A coupling device according to one of claims 10 to 12, characterized in that on a side portion of the spring member (99) has a latching projection (98) for engagement in a latching recess (101) of the plug receptacle (26-29) and / or a recess for Collaboration with a latching projection lo of the socket (26-29) are arranged.

14. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the plug-in receptacle (26-29) has an ejection-spring arrangement (95) which would take place when the at least one module (23-25) is arranged on the plug-in receptacle (26-25). 29) in the sense of ejection of the at least one module (23-25) from the plug-in receptacle (26-29) is biased.

15. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the plug-in receptacle (26-29) has a retaining spring arrangement (93), which is the least

20 least one module (23-25) in the socket (26-29) holds.

16. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that between a first and a second housing part (120, 121) of the housing (30) of the base assembly (21, 22) arranged sealant

25, at least one optical display device and / or one optical waveguide section (125) for an optical display device (126).

17. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base structural unit (22) comprises a housing (30) separate from the diagnostic device (10, 11) and / or designed as a plug-in card (31) for the diagnostic device (10, 11).

18. Coupling device according to one of the preceding claims 5, 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 interface (38-40) for a communication lo half parts (50, 51) of a second type can be arranged.

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

20. Coupling 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.

20 21. The coupling device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the Prüfschnittsteile (38-40) comprises a bus interface, in particular a CAN bus interface, a LIN bus interface or a Flexray interface.