Operation

OPERATION

The microprocessor in the park assist module (also known as the ParkTronic System/PTS module) contains the park assist system logic circuits. The module uses On-Board Diagnostics (OBD) and can communicate with other electronic modules in the vehicle as well as with the diagnostic scan tool using the Controller Area Network (CAN) data bus. This method of communication is also used for park assist system diagnosis and testing through the 16-way data link connector located below the driver side end of the instrument panel.

The module provides voltage and ground to each of the park assist sensors (also known as ParkTronic System/PTS sensors) located behind the front and rear bumpers, the front and rear park assist displays (also known as the ParkTronic System/PTS warning elements) and the rear park assist buzzer (also known as the rear ParkTronic System/PTS buzzer). The module then monitors return inputs from each of the sensors, the displays and the buzzer on dedicated hard wired data communication circuits. The sensor inputs allow the module to determine when an obstacle is in the front or rear path of the vehicle and enables the module to calculate the relative location of the obstacle, and whether the distance to that obstacle is increasing or decreasing.

Pre-programmed decision algorithms and calibrations allow the module microprocessor to determine the appropriate park assist system outputs based upon the inputs received from the park assist sensors, as well as inputs received from the park assist switch (also known as the PTS OFF switch) and from other components and modules in the vehicle through electronic messages received over the CAN data bus. The module then sends electronic messages over the dedicated communication circuits and the CAN data bus to obtain the proper park assist system visual and audible outputs.

The park assist module microprocessor continuously monitors all of the park assist system electrical circuits and components to determine the system readiness. If the module detects a monitored system fault, it sets a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) and sends the appropriate electronic messages to the park assist components to control operation of the park assist system audible warnings and visual displays.

The module operates on battery voltage received through a fuse in the fuse and relay block (also known as the SRB) below the driver side end of the instrument panel, and is grounded through its connection to the vehicle wire harness. These connections allow the module to be operational whenever the ignition switch is in the ON position.

The hard wired circuits between components related to the park assist module may be diagnosed using conventional diagnostic tools and procedures. However, conventional diagnostic methods will not prove conclusive in the diagnosis of the park assist module or the electronic controls or communication between modules and other devices that provide some features of the park assist system. The most reliable, efficient, and accurate means to diagnose the park assist module, the CAN data bus, the serial data bus or the electronic communication related to park assist module operation requires the use of a diagnostic scan tool. Refer to the appropriate diagnostic information.