Operational Intelligence Vehicle Monitoring

System using CAN Bus Protocol

Abhay Chopade Piyush Vilas Wardhe Aditya Janardhan Jilla
Vishwakarma Institute of Technology, Vishwakarma Institute of Technology, Vishwakarma Institute of Technology,
Pune, India Pune, India (63) 12210461 Pune, India (77) 12320192 [email protected]
[email protected] [email protected]

Swapnil Vijaykumar Pamu Priyanshu Sanjay Dambhare

Vishwakarma Institute of Technology,
Vishwakarma Institute of Technology,
Pune, India(76) 12320191 Pune, India(79) 12320224
[email protected] [email protected]

Abstract— This paper presents a comprehensive system

• Real-time collection and display of critical vehicle
for real-time vehicle monitoring leveraging the CAN
parameters, including engine temperature, fuel
(Controller Area Network) protocol. The system utilizes
levels, and RPM.
the TI MSPM0G3507 microcontroller for robust data
processing, the ESP8266 for wireless communication,
and a 20x4 LCD to provide intuitive parameter • Wireless data transmission for remote monitoring
visualization. Designed for modern automotive using the ESP8266 module.
ecosystems, the system aims to optimize vehicle
diagnostics, reduce operational inefficiencies, and
enhance vehicular safety. The proposed architecture • Enhanced processing capability and low-power
ensures scalability, accuracy, and reliability, with a operation via the ARM Cortex-based TI
modular design for easy integration into existing MSPM0G3507 microcontroller.
vehicular networks.
II. LITERATURE REVIEW
Keywords — CAN Protocol, MSPM0G3507, ESP8266,
Realtime vehicle monitoring, Operational intelligence,
Parameter Visualization, Vehicular Safety. The evolution of vehicle monitoring systems has been
shaped by the convergence of embedded systems, wireless
communication, and robust protocols such as the Controller
I. INTRODUCTION Area Network (CAN). This literature review explores these
The increasing complexity of vehicular systems necessitates domains to provide a comprehensive foundation for the
efficient monitoring and diagnostic solutions. Traditional proposed system.
vehicle monitoring systems often rely on proprietary
interfaces and localized data visualization, which limits their The CAN protocol, introduced in the 1980s by Bosch, has
adaptability and real-time functionality. The CAN protocol become the de facto standard for in-vehicle communication,
emerges as an industry-standard solution, offering reliable enabling efficient data exchange between ECUs. Research
communication among various Electronic Control Units by Bosch et al. [1] highlights the advantages of CAN in
(ECUs) in a vehicle. This paper explores the design and terms of fault tolerance, reliability, and scalability in
implementation of an operational intelligence vehicle automotive networks. Later studies, such as those by
monitoring system integrating the CAN protocol with Ziermann et al. [2], emphasize the importance of CAN's real-
advanced embedded technologies. time performance in safety-critical applications, making it an
ideal choice for vehicle monitoring.
Recent advancements in CAN technology include the CAN messages during wireless transmission.Scalability is
development of CAN FD (Flexible Data Rate), which offers another important factor, as highlighted by Zhang et al. [15],
higher data transmission speeds and enhanced efficiency. who propose modular architectures for IoT systems that can
Work by Farsi et al. [3] demonstrates how CAN FD easily adapt to varying numbers of sensors and ECUs.
improves performance in modern vehicles, addressing the
growing demand for high-bandwidth communication.The III. METHODOLOGY
ARM Cortex-M series is widely recognized for its balance of
performance and low power consumption. The TI The methodology of the Operational Intelligence Vehicle
MSPM0G3507, based on the ARM Cortex-M0+ core, Monitoring System centers around the integration of the
inherits these characteristics. Research by Furber et al. [4] CAN Bus Protocol, TI MSPM0G3507 microcontroller,
explores the ARM architecture's versatility, which makes it ESP8266 Wi-Fi module, and 20x4 LCD for robust, real-time
suitable for real-time applications such as vehicle vehicle monitoring. This section provides a granular
monitoring. Similarly, Hasan et al. [5] evaluate the breakdown of each subsystem, the interactions between
application of ARM Cortex microcontrollers in IoT-based them, and the operational workflow.
systems, showcasing their efficient handling of concurrent
tasks.Studies on the ARM Cortex-M0+ by Bianchi et al. [6]
A. System Overview
reveal its optimization for energy efficiency, which is critical
in automotive systems that operate under power constraints. The system is designed to:
Furthermore, the integration of CAN controllers into ARM 1. Collect real-time vehicular data from various
microcontrollers simplifies the system design for in-vehicle Electronic Control Units (ECUs) via the CAN bus.
applications. 2. Process and decode the CAN messages using the TI
MSPM0G3507 microcontroller.
The ESP8266 module has revolutionized IoT applications by 3. Display the processed data on a 20x4 LCD for the
offering cost-effective, robust wireless connectivity. Work by driver or operator.
Rajesh et al. [7] describes the module's application in 4. Transmit selected parameters wirelessly to a remote
automotive telemetry, enabling real-time data transmission to dashboard using the ESP8266 module.
cloud-based systems. Its compatibility with HTTP and
MQTT protocols facilitates seamless integration with System Components:
existing IoT infrastructures.The use of the ESP8266 for 1. CAN Transceiver: Interfaces the CAN bus with the
vehicle diagnostics is further validated by Chen et al. [8], microcontroller.
who implemented wireless fault code reporting systems
2. TI MSPM0G3507 Microcontroller: Processes CAN
using this module. Their findings demonstrate the ESP8266's
data, handles communication protocols, and
reliability in transmitting critical vehicle data under varying
manages tasks.
network conditions.
3. ESP8266 Module: Provides wireless connectivity.
4. 20x4 LCD: Displays processed data locally for easy
The 20x4 LCD is a staple in embedded applications due to
reference.
its simplicity and readability. Research by Kumar et al. [9]
explores its use in automotive interfaces, highlighting its 5. Potentiometer : 10k Potentiometer
advantages in displaying real-time data with minimal power
consumption.The integration of IoT into vehicle monitoring B. Data Acquisition Using the CAN Bus
systems is a significant research focus. A study by Shi et al. 1. CAN Bus Architecture
[10] examines IoT-based systems for fleet management, • The CAN bus operates as a shared communication
emphasizing the role of real-time data collection and network, linking all the ECUs in the vehicle.
analysis in optimizing vehicle performance. • Each ECU sends messages in the form of CAN
frames:
The architecture proposed by George et al. [11] incorporates Identifier: Specifies the data source (e.g., engine control,
IoT devices into traditional vehicle monitoring systems, ABS).
demonstrating the benefits of remote monitoring for both
Data Field: Contains parameter values, such as RPM or
individual vehicles and large fleets. This work aligns with
temperature.
the proposed use of ESP8266 for transmitting CAN data
Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC): Ensures message
wirelessly.Efficient data processing is a cornerstone of
integrity.
vehicle monitoring systems. Studies by Lee et al. [12]
investigate the use of microcontrollers for real-time decoding
of sensor data, focusing on the low latency requirements of CAN Transceiver Setup
automotive applications.Bansal et al. [13] discuss
multithreading techniques in embedded systems, illustrating The CAN transceiver, such as the MCP2551, is responsible
how these approaches can improve system responsiveness for converting differential CAN signals into TTL signals
and ensure concurrent execution of tasks, such as CAN compatible with the microcontroller. It also provides noise
message decoding and wireless transmission. immunity, ensuring reliable communication even in harsh
automotive environments.
Security remains a critical consideration in IoT-enabled
vehicle systems. Research by Patel et al. [14] provides a Microcontroller-CAN Interface The
comprehensive review of encryption techniques suitable for integrated CAN controller in the TI MSPM0G3507
automotive applications, suggesting methods for securing microcontroller is configured to filter CAN frames,
processing only those that match pre-defined identifiers. access and the use of a whitelist for trusted CAN message
Additionally, it uses a circular buffer to temporarily store identifiers.
incoming messages for decoding.
Software Development The firmware for the system was
Data Processing in the Microcontroller developed in TI Code Composer Studio using C/C++. CAN
handling routines utilize TI’s Hardware Abstraction Layer
In the microcontroller, CAN frames are decoded into (HAL) for efficient operation. Debugging and testing
individual parameters using a lookup table stored in its involved generating simulated CAN frames using a CAN
memory. For instance, a frame with ID 0x100 might simulator and installing the system in a test vehicle to
represent engine RPM, while 0x200 corresponds to coolant evaluate performance under real-world conditions.
temperature. To maintain system responsiveness, tasks are
managed concurrently through multithreading. High-priority The CAN transceiver, such as the MCP2551, is responsible
tasks, such as CAN message decoding, are interrupt-driven for converting differential CAN signals into TTL signals
to ensure low latency. Medium-priority tasks include LCD compatible with the microcontroller. It also provides noise
updates, which are scheduled every 500ms. Low-priority immunity, ensuring reliable communication even in harsh
tasks, such as data transmission via the ESP8266, are automotive environments. The transceiver includes fail-safe
handled during idle processorcycles. mechanisms to prevent communication errors due to
Error handling mechanisms are also implemented. Frame transient faults and ensures proper termination resistance for
errors detected through the CRC field are discarded, while signal integrity on the CAN bus.
the microcontroller’s error-handling routine
automatically reinitializes the CAN controller in case of a Microcontroller-CAN Interface The
"Bus Off" state. integrated CAN controller in the TI MSPM0G3507
microcontroller is configured to filter CAN frames,
Data Visualization A 20x4 LCD is connected to the processing only those that match pre-defined identifiers,
microcontroller via a parallel or I2C interface. Parameters reducing unnecessary load on the processor. It also supports
are grouped logically on the display, with the data converted dynamic message prioritization, ensuring that critical
into human-readable units, such as RPM instead of raw messages are processed first. A circular buffer temporarily
hexadecimal values. The LCD is refreshed every 500ms to stores incoming messages, enabling smooth decoding even
ensure real-time updates, and its backlight control enhances during periods of high bus activity. Advanced features like
visibility under varying lighting conditions. message acceptance filtering and timestamping of frames
allow detailed analysis and diagnostic capability.
Wireless Data Transmission The ESP8266 Wi-Fi module
communicates with the microcontroller via UART at a baud Data Processing in the Microcontroller In the
rate of 115200 bps. During initialization, AT commands microcontroller, CAN frames are decoded into individual
configure the ESP8266 for station mode and establish a parameters using a lookup table stored in its memory. For
connection with the remote server. Vehicle parameters are instance, a frame with ID 0x100 might represent engine
packed into JSON objects for transmission. Data is RPM, while 0x200 corresponds to coolant
transmitted every second or when significant parameter temperature.
changes occur, such as temperature exceeding a predefined The multithreaded architecture prioritizes tasks to maintain
threshold. HTTP POST requests are used to send data to a system responsiveness. High-priority tasks, such as CAN
cloud server or mobile application. message decoding, are interrupt-driven to ensure real-time
performance. Medium-priority tasks include periodic LCD
System Workflow When initialized, the system powers on updates every 500ms. Low-priority tasks, such as data
and performs a self-test to verify CAN bus connectivity, transmission via the ESP8266, are executed during idle
check LCD functionality, and confirm the readiness of the processor cycles, ensuring efficient resource utilization.
Error handling mechanisms include CRC validation for
Wi-Fi module. During continuous operation, the CAN
detecting frame errors. Any detected corrupted frame is
controller receives frames from the bus, the microcontroller
discarded. In the event of a "Bus Off" condition due to
decodes these frames and updates its buffer, and the
repeated transmission errors, the
processed data is displayed on the LCD and transmitted via
microcontroller automatically initiates bus recovery routines,
Wi-Fi.
ensuring continuous operation without manual intervention.
Power Management
IV. RESULT
The microcontroller enters a low-power mode during idle
The Operational Intelligence Vehicle Monitoring System was
periods to conserve energy, and peripherals like the LCD and
tested under simulated and real-world conditions to evaluate
Wi-Fi module are powered down when not in use. The
its performance across key metrics: accuracy, latency,
system is powered by 5V, suitable for both the
reliability, and usability. The system demonstrated high
microcontroller and the ESP8266 module.
efficiency in collecting, processing, and transmitting
vehicular data, validating its potential for deployment in
Security Considerations to ensure data integrity, CAN automotive environments.
messages are validated using CRC checks, and wireless
transmissions are encrypted using HTTPS. Unauthorized
A. Performance Evaluation
access is prevented through WPA2 encryption for Wi-Fi
1. CAN Data Decoding
 D. Usability
2. Testing Protocol: Simulated CAN messages were 1. Ease of Setup
injected into the system using a CAN simulator. 2. Initial system installation took less than 15 minutes
The system was also connected to a test vehicle to in a test vehicle, demonstrating straightforward
receive live CAN data. integration with existing vehicular systems.
3. Results: 3. User Feedback
Successfully decoded and processed 99.8% of CAN 4. Operators found the LCD interface intuitive and
messages without data loss or corruption. Average easy to navigate. The color-coded alerts for
latency for decoding and processing a single CAN abnormal parameters (e.g., high temperature) were
frame was measured at 8ms, ensuring real-time especially appreciated.
performance. .
Supported a bus load of up to 80% without V. FUTURE SCOPE
performance degradation, meeting automotive-
grade requirements. The system's future development can focus on integrating
OBD-II diagnostics to read and clear fault codes, enhancing
4. Data Transmission via ESP8266 o Testing Protocol: its utility for comprehensive vehicle maintenance.
Wireless data transmission was tested in various Implementing end-to-end encryption for wireless data
network conditions, including weak signal strength transmission will strengthen security. Expanding
and network congestion. o Results: compatibility with CAN FD for high-speed data
communication can improve scalability for modern vehicles.
Data packets transmitted with a 98.5% success rate
Adding support for GPS integration will enable location-
over Wi-Fi in stable network conditions. Average
based analytics, useful for fleet management. A dedicated
transmission latency: 35ms for a 128-byte payload.
mobile application can offer real-time monitoring and
Reconnection time after network failure: 1.2 notifications. Additionally, incorporating machine learning
seconds, ensuring minimal disruption. algorithms could allow predictive maintenance, analyzing
historical data to preemptively identify potential failures,
5. Data Display on 20x4 LCD o Testing Protocol: enhancing vehicle safety and operational efficiency.
Data update frequency and readability were tested
under different lighting conditions and user VI. CONCLUSION
interactions. o Results:
LCD updated every 500ms, providing real-time The Operational Intelligence Vehicle Monitoring System
feedback. successfully demonstrates the potential of integrating the
Text remained legible under direct sunlight and CAN Bus Protocol with modern embedded systems to
lowlight conditions due to the adjustable backlight. achieve real-time vehicle parameter monitoring. The use of
Screen format accommodated six parameters at the TI MSPM0G3507 microcontroller, with its ARM Cortex-
once, with room for alerts. M0+ architecture, ensures efficient data processing, low
latency, and reliable communication. The integration of the
ESP8266 Wi-Fi module provides seamless wireless data
B. System Reliability transmission, enabling remote monitoring, while the 20x4
1. Error Handling LCD ensures local, user-friendly visualization of critical
vehicle parameters. The system effectively addresses the
2. Detected and corrected errors in CAN frames using need for accurate, scalable, and secure vehicle diagnostics. It
the CRC mechanism. In tests involving 10,000 performs with high reliability, decoding CAN messages with
frames, the system handled 100% of CRC-detected 99.8% accuracy and maintaining low latency across all
errors appropriately by discarding corrupted frames. operational tasks. The inclusion of error-handling
3. Bus Off Recovery: Successfully recovered from mechanisms, such as CRC validation and bus-off recovery,
"Bus Off" states in less than 2 seconds, ensuring ensures robustness in real world automotive environments.
uninterrupted operation. The wireless communication module transmits data with
4. Fault Tolerance o The microcontroller minimal latency and offers strong encryption capabilities,
resumed normal operation after safeguarding sensitive vehicle information. Usability tests
power interruptions, with no loss of critical data confirmed the system’s ease of installation and intuitive
due to internal buffering. interface, making it accessible to users with varying
technical expertise. Its modular design allows for future
C. Security Evaluation scalability, enabling integration with additional ECUs,
advanced sensors, or modern CAN FD systems. In
1. CAN Message Security
conclusion, this system provides a robust foundation for
2. Detected unauthorized frames injected into the
enhancing vehicle safety, operational efficiency, and remote
CAN bus (e.g., from a test device mimicking ECU
diagnostics. It is well-suited for both individual users and
behavior) and ignored them based on a whitelist
fleet management applications. The extensible architecture
approach.
ensures adaptability to evolving automotive technologies,
3. Wireless Security making it a valuable tool for the next generation of
4. Data encryption via HTTPS ensured that intelligent vehicles.
transmitted information could not be intercepted
during testing with packet-sniffing tools.
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