With Line Drop Compensation Patents (Class 307/103)
  • Patent number: 5451925
    Abstract: A vehicle passive electronic security control for instant and automatic anti-theft protection which functions without special keys, switches, operator system awareness and does not require active arming or disarming. This invention is easily installed using common tools for electrical and mechanical connections. It cannot be defeated by hot wiring methods. The original ignition key and normal vehicle operating techniques instantly activate or arm and deactivate or disarm this anti-theft invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1995
    Inventor: Hy D. Le
  • Patent number: 5449957
    Abstract: An anti-theft device mountable on, in or otherwise adjacent the battery of a motor vehicle includes an enclosed power switch for opening the starting circuit between the battery and starter motor when the anti-theft device is activated, whereby it is impossible to start the vehicle. A normally closed bimetal switch device is connected in parallel with the power switch in one embodiment and is connected to the vehicle battery through the ignition switch whereby, when the power switch is open, an effort to start the vehicle through the ignition switch or by shortening the latter results in a noise which simulates a weak battery. A resistance is also connected across the power switch in parallel therewith to preclude the dropout of pre-set electrical accessories in the vehicle when the power switch is open. The anti-theft device is preferably operable by a remotely controlled encoder having a code signal identified by circuitry controlling operation of the power switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 12, 1995
    Assignee: Winner International Royalty Corporation
    Inventor: Louis D. Carlo
  • Patent number: 5444430
    Abstract: A motor vehicle having an engine and drive train is protected by a security system including a sensor, a sequencer and an interrupter. The sensor can detect motion of the motor vehicle to provide a motion signal. The sequencer is coupled to the sensor and responds to the motion signal for providing a disable signal after production of the motion signal. The interrupter is coupled to the engine for disabling it in response to the disable signal. Thus the motor vehicle is disabled only after its motion is detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1995
    Inventor: Richard McShane
  • Patent number: 5422632
    Abstract: Electronic security system for controlling access to an automotive vehicle. The security system includes a computer system having a processor subsystem connected to selectively enable or disable an ignition system of the automobile and a memory subsystem having ignition, valet and reprogramming key codes and first, second and third validation codes stored therein. To control access to the vehicle, an encoded signal containing a device code and an authorization code is propagated to the processor subsystem where the codes are compared to the ignition key, valet key, reprogramming key and validation codes. If the propagated device and authorization codes match the ignition key and first validation codes, the processor subsystem enables the ignition system for a pre-selected time period. If the propagated device and authorization codes match the valet key and second validation codes, the processor subsystem enables the ignition system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1995
    Assignee: Intellitouch 2000, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert A. Bucholtz, Jim B. Ferguson
  • Patent number: 5414304
    Abstract: In a device for suppressing voltage drops in apparatuses which can be connected with a battery via at least two lines, one line serves to supply voltage permanently and the other line can be switched on or off via a switch. To prevent voltage drops which can occur on the permanent voltage supply side from negatively affecting the voltage supply to the apparatus, the permanent voltage supply is taken over by the other connected line via a circuit arrangement situated between the two lines when voltage drops occur while the switch is closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 9, 1995
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Hans Loistl, Jochen Bach
  • Patent number: 5408211
    Abstract: A vehicle disabling system for connecting to a vehicle ignition system to disable the associated vehicle after a pre-determined length of time following an actuation of the system by a user. The device includes a disabling circuit which may be installed in series with the ignition system of the vehicle. The circuit includes a panic switch operable to actuate a timer and, after a pre-determined length of time has elapsed, subsequently actuate a relay. The relay is operable to then close a switch which results in a current surge through a fuse, thereby blowing the fuse and interrupting a supply of power to the vehicle ignition system. An alternate embodiment of the present invention includes a key-contained fuse holder for containing the fuse within the ignition key of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1995
    Inventor: Walter K. Hall
  • Patent number: 5404129
    Abstract: An anti-theft battery system for vehicles includes a control circuit which is connected in the starting circuit and responds to a starting current which exceeds a set point value to interrupt the starting circuit, thereby disconnecting the starter motor from the battery preventing starting of the vehicle, a reset circuit responsive to the control circuit which resets the control circuit after a delay interval to permit the starter motor to be connected to the vehicle battery, and an override circuit for generating an override signal for overriding the control circuit for a preselected interval of time to permit an authorized operator to start the vehicle, the override circuit including a small portable transmitter adapted to be carried by the vehicle operator and a receiver connected to the control circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 4, 1995
    Assignee: Globe-Union Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Novak, Thomas J. Dougherty
  • Patent number: 5397925
    Abstract: An anti-theft device that is adapted to be connected adjacent to or on a battery of a motor vehicle and including a power switch for disconnecting the battery from its standard battery cable when current flowing through the cable exceeds a preselected substantial amount of current associated with an attempt to start the vehicle. A lockout circuit is actuated by a remote transmitter for generating an external command signal to override the operation of the power switch. This device can be attached directly to a battery without external wiring and still provide the passive or self-arming anti-theft device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 14, 1995
    Assignee: Winner International Royalty Corporation
    Inventors: Louis D. Carlo, Joey B. Adkins
  • Patent number: 5396215
    Abstract: A band housing a transmitter is non-removably mounted about a portion of the body of a person who is not authorized to operate a motor vehicle. A receiver is mounted in the vehicle in close proximity to the vehicle steering wheel to detect signals from the transmitter when the person wearing the band is situated in proximity with the steering wheel. Upon receiving a signal from the transmitter, the receiver generates an output signal to electric circuit control elements which inhibit the operation of the vehicle. The circuit elements include a relay whose switchable contact is connected between the vehicle battery and the ignition coil. Alternately, the contact of the relay is connected to a solenoid which activates a steering or ignition lock mechanism. A detector may be provided in combination with the transmitter and the receiver to detect movement of the vehicle steering wheel or contact of the wearer of the band with the steering wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 7, 1995
    Inventor: Terry A. Hinkle
  • Patent number: 5396216
    Abstract: A theft deterrent system having two operational modes for selectively disabling a vehicle and sounding a siren. A first operational mode disables an engine component of the vehicle, sounds the siren, and locks the hood of the vehicle upon a use or a by-pass of the ignition switch. A second operational mode allows a use or a by-pass of the ignition switch to operate the vehicle for a predetermined amount of time before disabling an engine component, sounding the siren, and locking the hood of the vehicle. The system includes a keypad through which a controlling code may be entered, a remote keypad allowing the same, and a keypad disguising assembly for installation into a dashboard of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 7, 1995
    Inventor: Lonnie Morgan
  • Patent number: 5353006
    Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft control which prevents the vehicle from being started by providing a code input authorization system working in combination with an enclosed controller relay system of a solonoid which prevents the starter motor from engaging the engine until after a correct code authorization is received. The controller is housed in an intermediate chamber of a solonoid housing and cannot be circumvented by exterior hot wiring so as to prevent electricity from passing to either the pulling or holding coils of the solonoid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 4, 1994
    Inventor: Ricardo Aguilar
  • Patent number: 5343077
    Abstract: An electric power supply control device for a vehicle comprises a lock actuator for driving actuators of the vehicle and an operation switch for outputting all operation instruction signal to the lock actuator. A circuit for vehicle running system for actuating an engine of the vehicle and a steering lock circuit for actuating the steering lock actuator in a locking direction are connected, exclusively with each other, to a power supply circuit. Wireless communication is conducted between a driver's transceiver and the vehicle when the vehicle engine is stopped and the power supply circuit therefor remains on, to automatically disconnect the power supply circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1992
    Date of Patent: August 30, 1994
    Assignees: Honda Giken Kogyo KK, Honda Lock MFG. Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Susumu Yoshida, Munemitsu Ebihara, Tsutomu Kurita, Masahiko Sueyoshi
  • Patent number: 5304979
    Abstract: A solid state computer circuit system is provided that senses the state of the ignition switch, setting a lock out circuit to prevent the car from being started if a hidden switch (or other enabling circuit) is not activated. There is a solid state timing circuit locking out the ignition system automatically after a predetermined time when the ignition switch is turned off (typically thirty seconds). The system is actuated with a hidden switch (or an electronic device like a garage door opener or a digital key pad with an alarm circuit sounding an alarm if the wrong code is input or a foreign item is used in an effort to wrongfully enable the basic system circuit).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 19, 1994
    Inventors: Robert J. Lima, Jack F. Smith
  • Patent number: 5287006
    Abstract: An anti-theft device that is adapted to be connected adjacent to or on a battery of a motor vehicle and including a power switch for disconnecting the battery from its standard battery cable when current flowing through the cable exceeds a preselected substantial amount of current associated with an attempt to start the vehicle. A lockout circuit is actuated by a remote transmitter for generating an external command signal to override the operation of the power switch. This device can be attached directly to a battery without external wiring and still provide the passive or self-arming anti-theft device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 15, 1994
    Assignee: James E. Winner
    Inventors: Louis D. Carlo, Joey B. Adkins
  • Patent number: 5280268
    Abstract: A vehicle security system has a combination lock type switch which controls engine starting and at least one other critical engine function; activates an alarm; and which causes an incapacitating substance, such as tear gas, to be introduced to the vehicle interior. The combination lock type switch controls appropriate solenoid valves and switches to accomplish the above purposes. This combination switch, a replenishing port, and a visible alarm are the only visible components. The remaining components are concealed behind the dashboard or beneath the floor of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: January 18, 1994
    Inventor: Edward J. Matthews
  • Patent number: 5276728
    Abstract: A system for remotely disabling or enabling an automobile having at least one receiver that scans signal codes transmitted in frequencies dedicated to mobile telephone communications, and at least one frequency outside that used in mobile telephone communications. The signal codes received by the receiver are compared to an enabling code and a disabling code stored within a programmable memory. When the owner of an automobile finds the vehicle stolen, the owner dials the telephone number corresponding to the disabling code of the automobile. The dialed number causes a signal code to be transmitted from the mobile telephone transmitted network, wherein the signal code is received by the stolen automobile. If the transmitted signal code matches the programmed disabling code the automobile is disabled. Similarly, the automobile can be enabled if a signal code is received that matches the enabling code the automobile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 4, 1994
    Inventors: Kenneth Pagliaroli, Dean Pagliaroli
  • Patent number: 5237970
    Abstract: A anti-theft ignition coil installation for the ignition system of an internal combustion engine of a conventional automobile having a driver's compartment with the installation comprising a chamber mounted in the driver's compartment for housing the ignition coil and an ignition key structure mounted in the ignition coil structure for electrically connecting the battery, ignition coil and starter. The ignition key structure is mounted integrally to the ignition coil with an anchor for activating the ignition coil when the proper key is inserted; however, if the key structure is altered by any means other than by the proper key, the anchor will render the ignition coil inoperable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1993
    Inventor: Joseph D. Weis
  • Patent number: 5224567
    Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft device includes remotely operated relays for disabling the vehicle ignition and starter activated by a remote control or signal source that transmits an encoded radio frequency or infrared signal. A receive, including a decoder, located in the vehicle receives the signal and provides electrical pulses to flip flop switches that transmit electrical signals to selected trigger circuits. The trigger circuits generate short duration electrical pulses that are amplified to actuate the relays. An optional digital keypad mounted inside the vehicle may be used to close the relays in the event that the remote device is misplaced or lost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1993
    Inventor: Norvel Tomlinson
  • Patent number: 5225713
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for preventing unauthorized operation of an engine of a motorized vehicle having a cellular telephone whereby certain DTMF tones must be generated on the cellular telephone prior to the engine of a motor vehicle being operational.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1993
    Inventors: Warren J. Henneberry, Stewart Settles
  • Patent number: 5202580
    Abstract: A lock for the ignition circuit of an automobile is disclosed. The lock includes a Hall effect sensor element which is activated by a control magnet on the cylinder member of the lock so that when the cylinder is rotated by a key to its start position the Hall effect sensor element is activated. The activation of the sensor element provides one of several starting criteria to an ignition circuit for starting an automobile. An anti-tampering magnet on the cylinder member lies directly under the sensor element in the off position and biases the Hall effect sensor element to its off position so hard that other magnetic forces induced from the exterior of the lock cannot overcome the bias and activate the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1990
    Date of Patent: April 13, 1993
    Assignee: Briggs & Stratton
    Inventor: David Janssen
  • Patent number: 5200644
    Abstract: An air conditioning system comprises a converter for converting a commercial AC into DC, an inverter for reconverting the DC into an AC having a predetermined frequency corresponding to an air conditioner load, a compressor driven with the AC from the inverter under a compressor capacity control operation matching the load, a battery used for dealing with a voltage drop of the supply power from the commercial AC power source and for supplying a DC different from the DC converted by the converter to the inverter via a switching element, and a discharge control unit for controlling the switching element in the manner that the battery supplies a current having a predetermined value proportional to a difference between the AC supplied from the power source to the converter and a preset current value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 1989
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1993
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Takehiro Kobayashi, Kazuhiko Akiyama
  • Patent number: 5191228
    Abstract: An antitheft device is provided for use in conjunction with a vehicle having an engine, an electrical system with an electrical starter, and a battery. The antitheft device includes a conventional alarm system which detects an unauthorized attempt to enter or start the vehicle motor and which generates an output signal representative thereof. A normally closed switch is connected in series between the battery and the vehicle electrical system. A switch actuator circuit is electrically connected to the alarm system and, upon receipt of an alarm signal from the alarm system, actuates the switch to the open position thereby disconnecting the vehicle battery from the engine starter and preventing unauthorized vehicle ignition. The switch actuator circuit also includes circuitry which detects an engine running condition which prevents actuation of the switch at any time that the engine is operating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1991
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1993
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Sloan
  • Patent number: 5184023
    Abstract: An anti-theft device that is adapted to be connected adjacent to or on a battery of a motor vehicle and including a power switch for disconnecting the battery from its standard battery cable when current flowing through the cable exceeds a preselected substantial amount of current associated with an attempt to start the vehicle. A lockout circuit is actuated by a remote transmitter for generating an external command signal to override the operation of the power switch. This device can be attached directly to a battery without external wiring and still provide the passive or self-arming anti-theft device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 1991
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1993
    Assignee: James E. Winner
    Inventors: Louis D. Carlo, Joey B. Adkins
  • Patent number: 5132660
    Abstract: A vehicle security system includes a transmitter, a receiver, a timer, a controller and an alarm circuit. The transmitter transmits selectively an encoded signal when activated by the user. The receiver develops a decoded signal in response to reception and recognition of the encoded signal. The decoded signal has a reception time duration commensurate with a transmission time duration of the encoded signal. The timer develops a momentary timer output signal. The timer output signal is developed in response to initial application of the decoded signal to the timer in the absence of ignition voltage and is developed after a selected timer duration in response to continuous application of decoded signal to the timer and the presence of the ignition voltage only if the reception time duration exceeds the selected time duration. The controller develops a binary signal. The binary signal switches states in response to each occurrence of the timer output signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 1991
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1992
    Assignee: Nutek Corporation
    Inventors: Chau-ho Chen, Chih-hung Shee
  • Patent number: 5132551
    Abstract: An anti-theft device that is adapted to be connected adjacent to or on a battery of a motor vehicle and including a power switch for disconnecting the battery from its standard battery cable when current flowing through the cable exceeds a preselected substantial amount of current associated with an attempt to start the vehicle. A lockout circuit is actuated by a remote transmitter for generating an external command signal to override the operation of the power switch. This device can be attached directly to a battery without external wiring and still provide the passive or self-arming anti-theft device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1992
    Assignee: James E. Winner
    Inventors: Louis D. Carlo, Joey B. Adkins
  • Patent number: 5128551
    Abstract: An electrical supply control system from a battery to the electrical facilities of a motor vehicle is arranged to isolate the battery from the electrical facilities in some circumstances to reduce the risk of inadvertent drain on the battery. The system comprises a main switch arranged to supply power from the battery, to the electrical facilities. A coil is arranged when energised to close the main switch and is connected to be energised when an engine function element such as an ignition switch is active. The coil can be disconnected from the engine function element by a connector. A manually operable mechanical actuator for the main switch is arranged in one position to close the main switch to provide a continuous supply to the electrical facilities and in another position to allow the state of energisation of the coil to control opening and closing of the main switch and thus isolate the loads when the engine function element is inactive.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1992
    Assignee: Jaguar Cars Limited
    Inventor: Andrew K. Clokie
  • Patent number: 5124565
    Abstract: An electric power supply control device for a vehicle comprises a lock actuator for driving actuators of the vehicle and an operation switch for outputting an operation instruction signal to the lock actuator. A circuit for vehicle running system for actuating an engine of the vehicle and a steering lock circuit for actuating the steering lock actuator in a locking direction are connected, exclusively with each other, to a power supply circuit. Wireless communication is conducted between a driver's transceiver and the vehicle when the vehicle engine is stopped and the power supply circuit therefor remains on, to automatically disconnect the power supply circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 23, 1992
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Susumu Yoshida, Munemitsu Ebihara, Tsutomu Kurita, Masahiko Sueyoshi
  • Patent number: 5121102
    Abstract: A circuit for detecting the occurrence of an event and for providing an output signal upon the detection of the event includes a sensor for detecting the occurrence of the event. A programmable voltage source is interconnected to the sensor for generating the output signal of a predetermined voltage value. The predetermined voltage value is generated by the programmable voltage source when the programmable voltage source is activated by the sensor. Circuitry is interconnected to the programmable voltage source for preventing identification of the preselected voltage value when the programmable voltage source is not activated by the sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1990
    Date of Patent: June 9, 1992
    Assignee: Optek Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert S. Stricklin, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5119065
    Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft device includes a lock body carried on the vehicle and having a key receiving a slot. A pair of bore holes are spaced apart from each other in a predetermined pattern and extend through the lock body, which is transparent to a particular frequency of electromagnetic radiation. The key includes a first radiation reflective area aligned with one of the bore holes and a second non-reflective area aligned with the other bore hole. A systems controller includes a pair of radiation emitters and associated radiation detectors. A pair of fiber optic cables connect the radiation emitters and the radiation detectors to the bore holes. The systems controller generates control signals in response to radiation reflected from the key through the optic cables. If a proper pattern of radiation is reflected through the optic cables, the vehicle will be operated in a normal manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1991
    Date of Patent: June 2, 1992
    Inventor: Fred A. Wiehagen
  • Patent number: 5115145
    Abstract: A security system for motor vehicles enables the ignition switch to be turned to the "off" position and the key to be removed without turning off the engine and accessories. Normal driving operation is restored by reinserting the key, turning the ignition switch to the "on" position, and preparing the vehicle for driving. If a person without the ignition key attempts to drive the vehicle, the engine turns off. The security system includes a solenoid, a switch means to energize and deenergize the solenoid, an ignition bypass line and switch, and a starter-override switch which prevents the flow of current to the starter should the ignition switch be inadvertently turned past the "on" position to the"start" position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 19, 1992
    Assignee: Dittrick/Christensen Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventors: Frederick W. Westberg, Dean P. Brondos
  • Patent number: 5111376
    Abstract: Prior voltage balancers for three-phase inverters are useful only with inverters which are not in wide use today. In order to overcome this problem, a voltage balancing circuit for a commonly used inverter balances N phase voltages produced on N output lines. The circuit includes switch controllers coupled to the N output lines for sensing the magnitude of each phase voltage and N-1 voltage combining circuits responsive to the switch controllers and coupled to N-1 output lines for modifying the voltage magnitudes on the N-1 output lines whereby the N phase voltages are maintained within a range of voltage magnitudes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1990
    Date of Patent: May 5, 1992
    Assignee: Sundstrand Corporation
    Inventor: Byron R. Mehl
  • Patent number: 5086288
    Abstract: An accessory for use with a vehicle, equipped with a vehicle anti-theft system, and an interrogator device for the anti-theft system. The accessory includes a connector arrangement for establishing between the vehicle anti-theft system and the interrogator device an electrical current carrying path which passes through the vehicle ignition lock cylinder mechanism. An ignition key arrangement is provided which is cooperable with the connected arrangement and permits mechanical operation of the vehicle ignition switch mechanism while the electrical current carrying path remains established.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 1990
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1992
    Assignee: Borroughs Tool & Equipment Corporation
    Inventor: Carl Stramer
  • Patent number: 5079435
    Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft system, comprising a mechanical key unit, an electronic key unit, and a control unit allowing operation of a motor vehicle only when both the mechanical key unit and the electronic key unit are operataed by a mechanical key and a keyboard, respectively. To permit operation of the motor vehicle even when the second electronic key unit has become unable to operate normally, there is provided a second electronic or mechanical key unit which can be operated manually or by means of the mechanical key. To discourage unauthorized operation of the motor vehicle, the second key unit requires entry of coded data or insertion of a mechanical key into a key switch provided in a poorly accessible part of the vehicle body. In this way, an authorized person can operate the motor vehicle even when the electronic key unit is unable to function normally without increasing the risk of an unauthorized person operating the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 1989
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1992
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Akira Tanaka
  • Patent number: 5079436
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for vehicles comprising a control circuit between the positive pole of the vehicle battery and the battery terminal of the solenoid of the starter. The control circuit comprises an SCR whose anode is connected to the positive pole and its cathode connected to the battery terminal of the solenoid. The control circuit is normally open and when closed by a detachable circuit key permits the battery positive pole to be now connected to the battery terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1991
    Date of Patent: January 7, 1992
    Assignee: State Paving Corporation
    Inventor: Robin K. Elkins
  • Patent number: 5066941
    Abstract: A key-in-ignition warning switch (10) is integrally mounted within an ignition switch (11). The warning switch (10), positioned along the rotational axis (17) of the ignition switch (10), comprises an inner plunger (15), an outer plunger (16), a plunger spring (28), and a housing spring (31). As the ignition key (26) is inserted into the key cylinder (12), a linkage (14) between the key cylinder (12) and the warning switch (10) pushes against the inner plunger (15), which in turn pushes against the outer plunger (16). As the key (26) is inserted completely into the key cylinder (12), contacts (24,25) attached to the plungers (15,16) make contact with terminals (34,36) located within a terminal block (35) attached to the ignition switch (11). When both plunger contacts (24,25) and mating terminals (34,36) are in contact, the key-in-ignition warning circuit is completed, thereby enabling the associated warning devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1990
    Date of Patent: November 19, 1991
    Assignee: United Technologies Automotive
    Inventor: Daniel Lau
  • Patent number: 5061915
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for motorized vehicles consisting of three relays and a number of switches controlled by the relays that are wired into the existing electrical system of the vehicle. The first relay energizes in response to an electrical signal generated by the existing electrical system and controls the sequencing of the disarming steps. The second relay disarms the device when energized by a signal generated in the existing electrical system but only after the first relay has been energized. The third relay activates the alarm and/or disables the vehicle starter when energized. The third relay will energize when there is an attempt to start a vehicle without following the prescribed sequence of disarming steps and is prevented from sounding an alarm and/or disabling the vehicle starter by the second relay when the second relay is energized. A connector consisting of a male-female pair that is installed with the pair disconnected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1990
    Date of Patent: October 29, 1991
    Inventor: Del A. Murphy
  • Patent number: 5041810
    Abstract: Automobiles such as a cash carrying car, truck, police car and so on, are prevented from being ridden away during loading or unloading cash or goods or being robbed by robbers after having been forcibly stopped on road. When a door of the automobile is opened, a opened-door detection switch operates and a first-control means stores in its memory the switch's action and cuts off an engine start-up circuit. The engine can be restarted when a registered password is entered into the device through a password inputting means, whereby a second-control means stores the signal and enters a resetting signal into the first control means to restore the engine start-up circuit. At the same time, a resetting signal produced by a reset signal generating means is inputted into the second control means which is thereby restored to the initial state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1990
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1991
    Inventor: Motohiro Gotanda
  • Patent number: 4992670
    Abstract: An ignition disabling anti-theft device (16) for a motor vehicle in which circuit switching devices (18 and 20) are used to disable the ignition system (6) of a vehicle every time the vehicle engine is shut off. The ignition sysem (6) can be enabled only by the application of battery voltage from a pre-existing vehicle electrical circuit through a secret switch (10). Further, the anti-theft device only disables the RUN circuit to the vehicle ignition system allowing the engine starter circuit to operate and the engine to start normally either with an unauthorized key or by splicing wires in the ignition circuit. When the starter circuit is deactivated after engine start, the engine will die, simulating an out of tune engine. A bypass switch (8) is provided to allow normal, unprotected operation of the engine ignition system when required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 1989
    Date of Patent: February 12, 1991
    Inventor: David E. Pastor
  • Patent number: 4983947
    Abstract: A combination illuminated entry and door lock switch for a vehicle door lock assembly which provides voltage signals to a single wire bus and smart sensor multiplex control system for controlling turning on interior lights of the vehicle when a door handle is operated and for disarming a vehicle alarm system when a door key is turned in a door lock cylinder. Another embodiment includes a keyboard mounted in a cavity of the door handle assembly which permits sending voltage signals over the single wire bus to the smart sensor multiplex control system to control a variety of drivers and other control devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 1990
    Date of Patent: January 8, 1991
    Assignee: Chyrsler Corporation
    Inventors: James E. Mullen, James S. Jurkiewicz
  • Patent number: 4980680
    Abstract: A theft resistant security system for motor vehicles. The system has a receptacle with a coupling coil. A surface acoustical wave device associated with the receptacle for relative movement thereto is also provided. The SAW device has a code and its own coupling coil for interaction with the receptacle coupling coil. A testing mechanism is connected to the receptacle for determining whether the code of the SAW device is valid for operation of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1990
    Date of Patent: December 25, 1990
    Assignee: GTE Products Corp. and GTE Laboratories, Inc.
    Inventors: William C. Knoll, James R. McColl
  • Patent number: 4978940
    Abstract: Vehicle security apparatus includes a tubular housing, a lock barrel having a rotary lock cylinder that controls a retractable latch, the barrel being slidably received in the housing bore and movable between an unlocked extended position and a locked retracted position within the bore. There is also a spring positioned in the housing bore which biases the barrel toward its extended position and detents for establishing the extended and retracted positions of the barrel by engagement with the barrel latch. The barrell is rotatable within the housing to a release position when the barrel is not in its locked position so that the latch no longer engages the detents, enabling the barrel to be pulled entirely out of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1988
    Date of Patent: December 18, 1990
    Assignee: Boston Auto Security, Inc.
    Inventor: Neil B. Kaplan
  • Patent number: 4965460
    Abstract: A vehicular anti-theft system, comprising: a mechanical key switch which can be turned with a matching mechanical key between a first angular position suitable for receiving the mechanical key therein and corresponding to an inoperative state of the vehicle and a second angular position corresponding to an operative state of the vehicle; electronic code matching circuit for detecting an electronic code signal transmitted from a transmitter incorporated in a part of the mechanical key; a control circuit which enables the vehicle when the mechanical key switch is turned with a matching key to the second angular position and the electronic code matching circuit has detected the matching code signal from the transmitter; a trigger circuit which acts upon the control circuit into detecting the matching code signal transmitted from the transmitter; wherein the trigger circuit is activated when the angular position of the mechanical key switch is set to a certain position preceding the position for starting the vehi
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1988
    Date of Patent: October 23, 1990
    Assignees: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha, Kabushiki Kaisha Honda Lock
    Inventors: Akira Tanaka, Masaaki Fukamachi, Kazuhiro Sakata
  • Patent number: 4958699
    Abstract: For a motor vehicle, wherein the motor vehicle has an electrical battery and at least one of an ignition, a distributor, and headlights electrically connected to the battery by electrical wires, an anti-theft device having a pole member, and a housing. The housing has a bottom and a cover. The cover defines a pole aperture configured and dimensioned so as to allow at least a portion of the pole member to pass therethrough in reciprocating motion. A portion of the pole member is visible when a portion of the pole member is extending through the pole aperture. An electrical switch means is electrically connected to at least one of the electrical wires. The electrical switch means has an on position so as to maintain the electrical connection and an off position so as to disconnect the electrical connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 1988
    Date of Patent: September 25, 1990
    Inventor: George G. Tchilinguirian
  • Patent number: 4945354
    Abstract: The invention features a theft resistant security system for motor vehicles. The system has receptacle with a coupling coil. A SAW (surface acoustical wave) device associated with the receptacle for relative movement thereto is also provided. The SAW device has a code and its own coupling coil for interaction with the receptacle coupling coil. A testing mechanism is connected to the receptacle for determining whether the code of the SAW device is valid for operation of the motor vehicle. Problems of crosstalk and wave reflection may produce spurious code pulses in systems of this type. The invention provides techniques for eliminating or reducing these unwanted pulses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1988
    Date of Patent: July 31, 1990
    Assignee: GTE Products
    Inventor: James R. McColl
  • Patent number: 4933664
    Abstract: An automobile theft prevention device has an alarm circuit for intermittently energizing a horn, a sensor for detecting a monitored action; and a control unit for controlling the alarm circuit so as to intermittently energize the horn when the monitored action is detected by means of the sensor during a period of time after an automobile door is locked according to a predetermined procedure and until the automobile door is properly unlocked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 12, 1990
    Assignee: Shiroki Kinzoku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshiharu Igawa, Masahiro Kunitachi
  • Patent number: 4931664
    Abstract: A controller for a motor vehicle security system. The controller has a SAW device adapted to receive a signal and to generate a reply signal. A decoder is connected to the SAW device for decoding the reply signal. A comparator compares the reply signal to a previously stored value and an enabling device enables operation of the motor vehicle when the predetermined value and the decoded reply signal are successfully compared.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 5, 1990
    Assignee: GTE Products Corporation
    Inventor: William C. Knoll
  • Patent number: 4914314
    Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft device which includes electronic control apparatus for controlling a function of a vehicle, the electronic control apparatus having anti-theft circuitry and controlling the vehicle function through an electrical cable, a plug in connection for physically connecting and disconnecting the electrical cable to and from the electronic control apparatus, the plug in connection including a first electrical contact electrically connected to the cable, a second electrical contact electrically connected to the electronic control apparatus when the plug in connection is physically connected thereto, at least one switching device having a first condition wherein the first and second electrical contacts are electrically connected and a second condition wherein they are electrically nonconnected, sensor apparatus for sensing a physical disconnection of the plug in connection from the electronic control apparatus and for placing the switching device in the second condition in response thereto, and switc
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1988
    Date of Patent: April 3, 1990
    Inventor: Helmut Hirtz
  • Patent number: 4857888
    Abstract: An automative alarm system is set forth wherein an ignition cutoff and audible alarm is sounded after a predetermined delay. The alarm apparatus includes a plurality of switches comprising a pressure foot treadle switch and an optional secondary switch with a third bypass switch positioned discretely within the automobile's interior for actuation of the apparatus. The third switch is formed as a cutoff switch positioned under the hood of an associated automobile or a like inaccessible place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 15, 1989
    Inventor: Enrique R. Torres
  • Patent number: 4855710
    Abstract: In a burglarproof system for an automotive vehicle, a door key cylinder arranged at a vehicle door includes a cylindrical body and a rotor accommodated therein. An acting section provided at the rotor extends radially from an axis thereof. A door key switch arranged in the vicinity of the door key cylinder detects the acting section to output a key-operation detection signal, when the rotor is angularly moved by turning operation of a key to bring a door locking mechanism to an unlocked position. A door lock switch detects in which one of the locked and unlocked positions the locking mechanism is. A stealing detector is provided for outputting a stealing detection signal when the stealing detector does not receive the key-operation detection signal from the door key switch, but receives the lock-releasing detection signal from the door lock switch. A burglarproof unit executes operation for a burglarproof in response to the stealing detection signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 1988
    Date of Patent: August 8, 1989
    Assignee: Diesel Kiki Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hideya Kikuchi, Hiroshi Ikeuchi
  • Patent number: 4842093
    Abstract: A system and method for preventing unauthorized starting of a motor vehicle. A timing interval of preselected duration is generated only upon detecting positioning of an ignition switch to a first position by means of a proper key inserted into the vehicle ignition switch. An electrical indication is generated when the ignition switch is positioned to a second position which, in one embodiment, corresponds to a start position of an automobile ignition switch. A starting circuit interrupt element remains in or is urged into a normally closed state to electrically complete the starting circuit only when the electrical indication appears during the time interval. The starting circuit may thereby only be energized for starting the motor during a normal preselected starting sequence comprised of key insertion followed by positioning of the switch from the first to the second state within the preselected time interval.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 1988
    Date of Patent: June 27, 1989
    Inventors: Nolan C. Lerche, Edward A. Fletcher, Michael H. Twedell