Measuring and testing – Internal combustion engine or related engine system or... – Compression
Reexamination Certificate
1999-03-24
2001-07-17
Dombroske, George (Department: 2855)
Measuring and testing
Internal combustion engine or related engine system or...
Compression
Reexamination Certificate
active
06260412
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates to an apparatus for testing the electronic control system for an electronic fuel injection system of an internal combustion engine.
Testing devices for determining whether the fuel injection control system of an internal combustion engine is providing properly timed fuel injection control signals has been, in the past, accomplished by means of a sensor device with lead wires for attachment of the sensor to the electronic control system outlet signal ports for the fuel injector. The starter for the engine is then operated or “cranked” after the sensor is attached to the control system. This causes the fuel injection control system to provide electronic signals through the test sensor. Normal voltage control signals are detected and evaluated by the sensor. Abnormal signals are also detected in this manner.
Heretofore, a version of such testing apparatus, known as a Noid light, was uniquely designed for each make or manufacture of vehicle and/or electronic injection system. Thus, a typical Noid light detection system includes a voltage detector, such as a light bulb, which is connected to the electronic fuel injection control system. If voltage provided to the sensor, e.g., test light, flashes intermittently and regularly, the mechanic concludes that the system is operating properly. However, if the sensor or light does not signal or flash or, for example, does not turn “on” or is “on constantly,” then something is defective in the control system and repair or replacement is required.
Numerous types of Noid lights are available in the marketplace, each individually designed for a particular ignition control system and vehicle construction and for compatibility with the wiring harnesses associated therewith. Thus, there has developed a need to provide a simple, more effective and universal device to test the control system for electronic fuel injection systems. Such a need inspired the development of the present invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In a principal aspect, the present invention comprises apparatus for testing the fuel injection control system for any one of a wide variety of internal combustion engine injector systems including a control system for multi-port as well as throttle body type injection systems. The testing apparatus comprises a body which includes a voltage responsive sensor mounted therein and first and second electric leads connected to the sensor. First and second electrical connector pins are connected to the ends of the first and second leads respectively. The pins are mounted in a special adapter which permits adjustment of the spacing of the pins so that the pins may be inserted into outlet ports or sockets associated with any one of a number of fuel injection control systems. Thus, the wiring harness from the engine fuel injectors may be detached from the injection control system, and the pins associated with the testing apparatus connected to the control system outlet ports. The engine may then be “cranked” by operating the starter and simultaneously initiating the output signals of the fuel injector control system. The sensor of the test apparatus, which typically comprises a light bulb, may then be observed to determine whether the fuel injector control system is providing properly timed signals to the engine fuel injectors. A flashing light will typically demonstrate that appropriate signals are being provided.
With the present invention, the spacing of the test apparatus connecting pins is fully adjustable to accommodate insertion of the pins into the outlet ports of any one of a number of fuel injector control systems. Additionally, the connector pins are adapted to receive conductive sleeves so that the pins may be connected to variously sized sockets or outlet ports. The Noid light of the invention or, in other words, the apparatus for testing the fuel injection control system is thus universal and may be used in combination with any fuel injection control system for testing of that system.
The apparatus further includes other features to enhance its universality. For example, the wiring leads may be wrapped up on a spool which is incorporated in the body of the apparatus. The spool may be disassembled to reveal an internal storage compartment and also to permit replacement of the sensor or test bulb. A suction cup is provided on the body to hold the body in position on a vehicle to facilitate its use and observation by a mechanic. The body further includes a molded bracket which allows storage of the adjustable pin spacing adapter. The body also serves as a housing for the light bulb. The housing may be disassembled to permit replacement of the light bulb.
Thus, it is an object of the invention to provide a sensor apparatus which may be used with any one of a number of fuel injection control systems.
It is a further object of the invention to provide sensor apparatus which is lightweight, economical and easy to assemble and disassemble.
Another object of the invention is to provide a Noid light testing apparatus which has an elongated lead wire and a special adapter for connecting lead pins into a fuel injection control system.
Another object of the invention is to provide a Noid light fuel injector control system testing apparatus which includes a lead wire or harness that is elongated and which may be stored temporarily on the apparatus.
A further object of the invention is to provide a housing for the light bulb which permits replacement of the bulb.
Another object of the invention is to provide a fuel injection control system testing apparatus useful for testing control systems for throttle body as well as multi-port injectors.
These and other objects, advantages and features of the invention will be set forth in the detailed description that follows.
REFERENCES:
patent: 3875792 (1975-04-01), Krohn et al.
patent: 5107701 (1992-04-01), Smith
“OTC Catalog,” Delux Noid Lite Set, No. 3050B, prior to Jul. 21, 1999.
Special TV Tools Web Site (www.jedco-sa.com/specialty-tools.htm) (pp. 1-6) Nov. 5, 2000.
Plendl Gerard R.
Pool James L.
Banner & Witcoff , Ltd.
Dombroske George
Lisle Corporation
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