Yep i was looking at that program, wouldnt be bad if it knew what to do with Pcodes, a database of sorts would be nice, have it read the manufacturer and get legit codes.

I was going to start a java/elm CAN based program just to mess around with(got a MK5 VW) which then easily ports to android.  Just need to find time, half the work is done with the elm interface, which is nice.

So, I just got this in the mail the other day, and I can't believe how good of a deal I got.  I bought it from someone who bought it new a couple of weeks ago and thought they broke the keyboard when they replaced the ram.  They put in a new 4gb stick that they included with the computer, as well as a spare keyboard, and it took me 20 mins to get the keyboard working and tape it in.  Got this and the ram for like $215 shipped

http://www.amazon.com/Acer-AO522-BZ465-10-1-Inch-Netbook-Diamond/dp/B004PYD7AC/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1304676248&sr=8-1

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16820231266

I was always curious if patent infringement also covers an individual use thing, that in no way has monetary implications (like me using whatever APR's patented cruise-control stalk on my own personal vehicle, only for my own use).  Of course, if that were the case, they'd have a tough time hearing about it or whatever, but I'm curious as to the extent of the IP coverage.

I think it would be difficult for those patents to be upheld unless you stole APR's switching code.

I would be very surprised if APR had a patent for switching maps based on cruise control input.

That would imply that no other automobile manufacturer has a patent for changing performance characteristics based on user input....

Nyet, I know about this. It really isn't work spending time worrying about. What would you get sued for? Why would any company spend time and legal costs perusing an individual and prove they infringed their specific IP? Even medium scale companies wilfully infringe patents because it's so costly to prove they have that most don't bother. In fact, there's a good argument for not patenting ideas these days to keep them out of the public domain for as long as possible.

This patent specifically covers blending a stock map with an aftermarket performance map using an interpolation ratio set by an external device via the ECU communications port. It also covers a specific method for validating if a signature in the EEPROM matches a signature in the Flash and preventing the car from running or forcing the car to run in stock mode.

This patent does not cover switching maps, or switching maps via the cruise control stalk.

Also, if this patent ever made it to court, I am sure you could invalid it using prior art. The interpolation of a two maps based on a user specified blending amount is almost identical to how the ECU interpolates ignition timing based on intake camshaft advance. Also the method for preventing ECU copying and programming the ECU is very close the OEM methods already implemented.