초록 ▼

An engine control system for a vehicle engine includes an engine control module (ECM) that enters a modified sleep mode when the vehicle key switch is turned to the "off" position. In the modified sleep mode, all non-essential operating tasks normally executed by the ECM are disabled to place the EC

An engine control system for a vehicle engine includes an engine control module (ECM) that enters a modified sleep mode when the vehicle key switch is turned to the "off" position. In the modified sleep mode, all non-essential operating tasks normally executed by the ECM are disabled to place the ECM in a mode of reduced power consumption. In addition, various communications interrupts are disabled, except for interrupts associated with at least one external data transmission device. During the modified sleep mode, priority for communications with the external device are highest to permit external communication to and from the ECM using the external device. In this modified sleep mode, the vehicle operator or engine technician can download or upload data to and from the ECM memory. The ECM includes a sleep mode task module that is maintained during the modified sleep mode. The sleep mode task module controls a sleep mode termination timer (SMT timer) that counts the time the ECM is in the modified sleep mode. The SMT timer is reset for each communication between the ECM and the external device. Upon expiration of the SMT timer, the ECM transfers to a power down mode, after flushing volatile data caches to non-volatile memory.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An engine control system for controlling and monitoring engine operation in response to execution of a sequence of commands stored onboard the vehicle and modifiable by an external data transmission tool, comprising:an engine control module (ECM) executing operating comma

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] An engine control system for controlling and monitoring engine operation in response to execution of a sequence of commands stored onboard the vehicle and modifiable by an external data transmission tool, comprising:an engine control module (ECM) executing operating commands to monitor engine operation and to control engine operation based upon modifiable operating parameters, and having a memory for storing the modifiable operating parameters and data indicative of monitored engine operating conditions;a plurality of data links operatively connected to said ECM for the transmission of data to and from said ECM, at least one data link providing communication between said ECM and an external data transmission tool;a sleep mode task module within said ECM for placing the ECM in a sleep mode of reduced power consumption in which said ECM ceases executing the operating commands, said sleep mode task module including;a sleep mode termination timer for timing the length of time the ECM is in the sleep mode;communication processor means within said ECM for permitting communication with the external data transmission tool only over said at least one data link during said sleep mode to access said memory of said ECM to download said data indicative of monitored engine operating conditions or to modify said operating parameters within said memory; andpower down means for placing the ECM in a power down state upon expiration of a predetermined time period counted by said sleep termination mode timer.