Robert Boschgmbh

Juergen Zimmermann

Richard Schleupen

Michael Gundlach

Martin Wagener

Ulrich Motz

A method is provided for protecting stored-program control systems, in particular in motor vehicles, which offers a software protection system for programming. A programming routine for programming by an external device is subdivided into segments in such a way that queries for programming authorization can be accomplished between the individual segments.

Process for the protection of stored program controls from overwriting

A device for the recording, storing and outputting of data of a control unit in a motor vehicle, besides the operating time of the control unit, makes it possible for other data to be acquired and stored as well, so that information will be provided regarding the probability of failure or the future reliability of the control unit. Noteworthy as these additional data is at least one of the quantities:

Device for recording, storing, and outputting of data of a control unit

A digital control unit, in particular an ignition and/or injection control unit for motor vehicles, is provided. The control unit has a microcomputer (10) and a permanently connected main storage (12) containing control data and operating programs. This main storage unit (12) is designed as a read/write memory (RAM, EEPROM or the like). A control program that runs when the control unit is switched on is provided in an auxiliary storage (13) designed as a permanent storage (ROM, EPROM or the like). Based on a load instruction, the control program controls the loading of the main storage (12) from an external storage medium via an interface (21). The control program also automatically transfers the operating program access of the microcomputer (10) to the main storage (12). In this manner, software modifications can easily be subsequently implemented in the control unit when, for example, improvements or variations in program data or characteristic data are available and desired. No external programming device is required to modify data.

Growing community of inventors

Vaihingen, Germany

Juergen Zimmermann