Of Motorcycles Or Bicycles Patents (Class 340/427)
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Patent number: 6876297Abstract: A vehicle security system includes a protective cover incorporating a battery operated alarm unit contained within a pocket that is attached to the inner surface of the cover. A cable contained within the cover removably connects a switch actuating plunger of the alarm unit to the vehicle for operating a switch to activate the alarm unit, producing an audible alarm in the event an intruder attempts to remove the cover from the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: February 14, 2003Date of Patent: April 5, 2005Assignee: Dowco, Inc.Inventors: Kristopher M. Krohn, Kenneth R. Schweda
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Patent number: 6825759Abstract: A wheel includes a disk form wheel, a tire fitted to the wheel, and a tire tube contained between the wheel and the tire, and is provided with an air pressure detection device intermediately disposed between the tire tube and the wheel. A metallic line form reception antenna is inserted by molding into a front fender. Since the distance from a transmission means fitted to an air pressure sensor to the reception antenna is reduced, reception sensitivity can be enhanced. In addition, since the reception antenna can be pitched to about the size of the fender, the reception sensitivity can be enhanced. Further, since jigs for fixing the antenna are needless, a reduction in the number of component parts can be contrived, and the antenna can be fixed without spoiling the appearance.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2002Date of Patent: November 30, 2004Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Toshio Yamagiwa, Tomoyuki Harada
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Publication number: 20040183658Abstract: A mounting structure for a tire pressure sensing system. The tire pressure sensing system includes a pressure sensor placed on a wheel to sense pressure of a tire which is mounted on the wheel. The wheel is a cast wheel for a vehicle including a rim portion where the tire is mounted, a hub portion provided at the center of the rim portion, and spoke portions connecting the rim portion and the hub portion. The pressure sensor is placed in a boundary portion between the rim portion and the spoke portions. Since the pressure sensor is placed in the boundary portion between the rim portion and the spoke portions, a portion protruding into the tire when replacing a tire can be reduced. Consequently, workability for tire replacement can be improved.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 10, 2004Publication date: September 23, 2004Inventors: Toshio Yamagiwa, Masayoshi Orita, Tomoyuki Harada
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Publication number: 20040075543Abstract: A rear lighting device for a motorcycle is disclosed. The rear lighting device is mounted on a rear fender that covers a rear wheel of the motorcycle. The rear lighting device includes a flasher stay that is mounted on the rear fender through a stay bracket, and flashers mounted on right and left mounting end sections of the flasher stay. The flasher stay includes a mounting plane surface section provided in a generally central area of the flasher stay along its length direction and right and left end sections on both sides of the mounting plane surface section. The mounting plane surface section is defined by a plate like section that is generally flat in a direction perpendicular to the length direction of the flasher stay, and the mounting plane section extends generally horizontally as the flasher stay is mounted on the stay bracket.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 21, 2003Publication date: April 22, 2004Applicant: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Takehiro Miyamoto
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Patent number: 6707377Abstract: A remote control is remotely mounted and controlled by an activation switch. The remote control is mounted within a cavity of a motorcycle and in electrical communication with an activation switch. The activation switch is mounted for easy access and manipulation. A feedback device is provided for communicating that the remote control has been activated. A universal mounting bracket allows the operator to selectively mount the activation switch and feedback device in any location they desire.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 2002Date of Patent: March 16, 2004Assignee: Ironhead, Inc.Inventors: Curtis R. Piper, R. Thomas Mueller
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Patent number: 6690267Abstract: The invention provides a remotely controllable bicycle lock and alarm system and a remote control device enabled to facilitate communication between the a remote control device and the lock and alarm system. Also provided in the lock and alarm system is an audible alarm for notification of the bicycle operator.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2002Date of Patent: February 10, 2004Inventors: Edward A. Linden, Charles P. Marschhausen
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Patent number: 6664890Abstract: A vehicle is provided with an air pressure detection device for a tire which includes a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of a tire and an air pressure sensor for measuring the air pressure of the tire. A reduced air pressure arithmetic portion is provided for calculating a reduced air pressure Pm from the temperature Tx measured by the temperature sensor and the air pressure Px measured by the air pressure sensor by the formula set forth below. An alarm signal generating portion is provided for generating an alarm signal when the reduced air pressure Pm calculated by the reduced air pressure arithmetic portion is decreased to or below a first threshold value Pa. Pm=Px−K(Tx−T0) The condition where the tire air pressure is lowered to or below a threshold value determined based on a recommended air pressure can be accurately detected, and an alarm can be issued, without being affected by tire temperature rise or temperature variations.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2002Date of Patent: December 16, 2003Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Toshio Yamagiwa, Tomoyuki Harada
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Publication number: 20030218536Abstract: The invention provides a remotely controllable bicycle lock and alarm system and a remote control device enabled to facilitate communication between the a remote control device and the lock and alarm system. Also provided in the lock and alarm system is an audible alarm for notification of the bicycle operator.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 22, 2002Publication date: November 27, 2003Inventors: Edward A. Linden, Charles P. Marschhausen
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Patent number: 6603393Abstract: The invention provides a display device for vehicles capable of quickly and reliably displaying high-priority and high-emergency information, while maintaining sufficient display space for other information. The vehicles may be of the type including a trunk provided with a cover. The display device has a display section in which display patterns are used. The display device includes an open position detecting device which detects that the cover of the trunk is open. A warning design pattern producing device generates a warning design pattern which visually expresses a warning when the cover is open. A warning display priority device displays the warning design pattern, prior to other information, on the display section when the cover is detected to be open.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2001Date of Patent: August 5, 2003Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Takashi Sumada, Yoshifumi Mochizuki, Koji Kano, Koji Suzuki, Koichi Shimamura
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Patent number: 6600411Abstract: A bicycle electrical connector cord includes a first connector, a primary cable, a second connector, a secondary cable and an electrical device. The first connector has a plurality of first electrical contacts. The primary cable includes a first conducting member electrically coupled to one of the first contacts and a second conducting member electrically coupled to one of the first contacts. The second connector has at least one second electrical contact electrically coupled to the first conducting member. The secondary cable extends from the second connector and includes a third conducting member electrically coupled to the second conducting member. The electrical device is electrically coupled to the third conducting member. A method is also provided for attaching a bicycle electrical connector cord to a display unit and a pair of electrical devices on a non-forward facing portion of a bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2001Date of Patent: July 29, 2003Assignee: Shimano Inc.Inventor: Naohiro Nishimoto
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Publication number: 20030107479Abstract: An alarm system (10) for use in a vehicle such as a bicycle, motorbike, quad bike or the like, comprising a base (12) on which is mounted a vibration sensor (14), a microprocessor (16) and a sounder (18). A power supply (20), consisting of two rechargeable batteries (22) are connected to the base (12) to provide power to the vibration sensor (14), the microprocessor (16) and the sounder (18). The alarm system (10) can be placed into the handlebar (24, FIG. 2) of a bicycle or the like by removing the handgrip (26, FIG. 2) and inserting the entire system (including the power supply 20) into the open end of the tubular handlebar.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 8, 2002Publication date: June 12, 2003Inventor: Tom Evans
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Publication number: 20030080859Abstract: Two embodiments of very simple by highly effective antitheft devices for use in small vehicles such as motor scooters, personal watercraft or other forms of watercraft. Each system employs a removable component which also functions as a display and which disables the operation of the prime mover of the vehicle. The removed component can be carried by the user and reinserted when he desires to again operate the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 15, 2002Publication date: May 1, 2003Inventor: Mitsuru Tsuji
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Patent number: 6515580Abstract: An improved antitheft system for a vehicle wherein the antitheft control unit and the ignition control unit share a common CPU as one method of avoiding external connections that could be jumped by an unauthorized user.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2000Date of Patent: February 4, 2003Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha MORICInventors: Naoya Isoda, Masahiko Enoyoshi, Masayuki Yamamoto
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Publication number: 20030001730Abstract: A remote control is remotely mounted and controlled by an activation switch. The remote control is mounted within a cavity of a motorcycle and in electrical communication with an activation switch. The activation switch is mounted for easy access and manipulation. A feedback device is provided for communicating that the remote control has been activated. A universal mounting bracket allows the operator to selectively mount the activation switch and feedback device in any location they desire.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 10, 1999Publication date: January 2, 2003Inventors: CURTIS R. PIPER, R. THOMAS MUELLER
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Publication number: 20020171538Abstract: A vehicle motion detector and control device arrangement includes a casing, a rotor rotated with the transmission line of the cable of the mileage meter of the motor vehicle in the casing, a rotary driven member revolvably supported on a damping oil in an annular end chamber of the rotary member and maintained in the middle position by magnetic expulsive force, and switch means mounted outside the casing and induced by a magnet at the rotary driven member to turn on a control device of the motor vehicle upon operation of the motor vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 15, 2001Publication date: November 21, 2002Inventors: Kuo-Hsin Su, Paul Huang
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Patent number: 6463385Abstract: A sports computer having an integral global satellite positioning (GPS) receiver and computer interfacing capability enables functional and/or performance characteristics to be tracked and analyzed as a function of geographical position and/or elevation. The computer includes a mount and/or interfaces to one or more sensors to measure operational and/or physiological parameters such as heart rate, or weather conditions such as temperature. Stored geographical and sensor parameters may be downloaded to an external personal computer so that the data collected during a workout may be reviewed and analyzed on the screen of the PC. Preferably, map data may also be stored enabling the collected data to be viewed relative to the map information, for example, in superposition.Type: GrantFiled: November 13, 2000Date of Patent: October 8, 2002Inventor: William R. Fry
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Publication number: 20020126006Abstract: An air pressure detecting device for detecting the air pressure of a wheel of a vehicle which has a tire tube disposed in a tire. The air pressure detecting device is disposed between the tire tube and the rim of the wheel portion for detecting the air pressure of the tire. The air pressure detecting device includes an annular seat mounted in an opening defined in the tire tube. A lid member is removably fitted over the seat. A detecting and transmitting unit is integrally mounted in the lid member for detecting an air pressure in the tire tube and transmitting pressure information out of the detecting and transmitting unit. When the tire is to be replaced, the lid member is removed, and the detecting and transmitting unit is attached to a new tire for use.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 20, 2001Publication date: September 12, 2002Inventors: Toshio Yamagiwa, Tomoyuki Harada, Osamu Bunya, Takashi Ashigai
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Publication number: 20020121971Abstract: This invention relates to a remote lock operation apparatus for a light vehicle having a bar handle and a switch case and having no cabin. One objective of the invention is to make it possible for the infrared receiver of the remote lock operation apparatus to cover a range of directivity without being influenced by the seat or the vehicle body rear portion. Another objective is to protect the infrared receiver from the weather and mischief. These objectives are achieved by having an infrared receiver provided on a switch case, with a switch operation element provided on a steering bar handle of a vehicle, thereby protecting the infrared receiver from potential damage while at the same time positioning it so that it can be easily operable by a passenger.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 19, 2002Publication date: September 5, 2002Inventor: Takeshi Konno
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Patent number: 6437459Abstract: A safety system for reminding an operator of a motorcycle to remove a lock from a disc rotor of a brake of the motorcycle and for reminding the operator to replace the lock in a storage location on the motorcycle, the motorcycle requiring function of an electrical circuit for starting the motorcycle, is disclosed. The system comprises a sensing mechanism for sensing that the lock is present in the storage location, the sensing mechanism operatively connected to, a switching mechanism operatively connected to the required electrical circuit of the motorcycle for controlling current flow through the required electrical circuit, whereby the motorcycle is prevented from starting unless the lock is present in the storage location.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 2001Date of Patent: August 20, 2002Inventor: Nadav Politi
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Patent number: 6433675Abstract: A receiver for an anti-theft device provided in a motor cycle or the like includes a small radius pole 2 which is integrated and extends in the same direction, coaxial direction, on an upper face of a pole 3 provided on a bottom face of a storage case 41 of an electronic circuit board 42. A plurality of protrusions 5 engaged by press fitting with holes provided in the electrical circuit board radiate along a peripheral longitudinal direction of the small radius pole. An electronic circuit board 42 is resin molded in a storage case 41.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2000Date of Patent: August 13, 2002Assignee: Calsonic Kansei CorporationInventors: Kazuhiko Suda, Yasuo Asaga
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Publication number: 20020105420Abstract: A vehicle is provided with an air pressure detection device for a tire which includes a temperature sensor for measuring the temperature of a tire and an air pressure sensor for measuring the air pressure of the tire. A reduced air pressure arithmetic portion is provided for calculating a reduced air pressure Pm from the temperature Tx measured by the temperature sensor and the air pressure Px measured by the air pressure sensor by the formula set forth below. An alarm signal generating portion is provided for generating an alarm signal when the reduced air pressure Pm calculated by the reduced air pressure arithmetic portion is decreased to or below a first threshold value Pa.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2002Publication date: August 8, 2002Inventors: Toshio Yamagiwa, Tomoyuki Harada
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Publication number: 20020101342Abstract: A wheel includes a disk form wheel, a tire fitted to the wheel, and a tire tube contained between the wheel and the tire, and is provided with an air pressure detection device intermediately disposed between the tire tube and the wheel. A metallic line form reception antenna is inserted by molding into a front fender. Since the distance from a transmission means fitted to an air pressure sensor to the reception antenna is reduced, reception sensitivity can be enhanced. In addition, since the reception antenna can be pitched to about the size of the fender, the reception sensitivity can be enhanced. Further, since jigs for fixing the antenna are needless, a reduction in the number of component parts can be contrived, and the antenna can be fixed without spoiling the appearance.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2002Publication date: August 1, 2002Inventors: Toshio Yamagiwa, Tomoyuki Harada
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Publication number: 20020101341Abstract: A tire air pressure detecting device has a tire air pressure detecting device on a wheel. A main transmitting device is provided at the wheel for transmitting an air pressure signal SP to a vehicle body. A main receiving device is provided at the vehicle body for receiving the air pressure signal SP. A main switch turn-on detecting device is provided on the vehicle body for detecting the turn-on of a main switch. A second control device is provided on the vehicle body for receiving the air pressure signal SP and a main switch ON signal Son. An auxiliary transmitting device on the vehicle body transmits a transmission instruction signal SR to the wheel when the second control means receives the main switch ON signal Son. An auxiliary receiving device on the wheel receives the transmission instruction signal SR. A first control device is provided for reading a new air pressure signal SP. When the main switch is turned on, the state of the tire air pressure can immediately be recognized.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 30, 2002Publication date: August 1, 2002Inventors: Toshio Yamagiwa, Tomoyuki Harada, Hiroyuki Kawasaki
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Patent number: 6418368Abstract: An electrical operating device for a bicycle includes a brake control device adapted to be mounted to a handlebar of the bicycle and a switching device integrated with the brake control device. The brake control device includes a first operating member that moves along a first path for controlling the operation of a brake, and the switching device outputs electrical signals in response to movement of the switching device along a second path different from the first path.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 2001Date of Patent: July 9, 2002Assignee: Shimano, Inc.Inventors: Masahiko Jinbo, Masahiko Fukuda, Takeo Abe
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Patent number: 6396394Abstract: To achieve efficient utilization of a display apparatus installed in a motorcycle. Various information is displayed in accordance with an operation of an operation switch set on an information display screen provided below a speedometer. Upon operation of switching a power supply on, an opening ceremony display is displayed. However, upon operation of switching the power supply off, an ending ceremony display is displayed. By displaying vehicle owner information particularly together with the opening ceremony display, a satisfactory feeling of the owner can be obtained.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2000Date of Patent: May 28, 2002Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Koji Suzuki, Koichi Shimamura, Koji Kano, Masanori Aoki, Hidetoshi Miyazaki, Robert Scott Reif
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Patent number: 6384717Abstract: An unattended bicycle rental and security system, utilizing bi-directional communications with data verification between the individual bicycles and the system is provided which is equipped with an alarm, and can individually identify a number of bicycles and attribute their rental with corresponding customers. The unattended bicycle rental and security system is able to identify if a rental bicycle has sustained an impact during a rental that is sufficient to damage it and identify the customer whose care the rental bicycle was in at the time. The system also allows the integration of several rental locations allowing a bicycle to be rented at one location and returned at another.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2001Date of Patent: May 7, 2002Inventor: Dean R. DeVolpi
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Patent number: 6373382Abstract: Embodiments of an alarm system are described, which may be mounted or built-in to a bicycle or other device which is in need of anti-theft protection. A loud alarm is connected to or mounted in the protected device, and is operatively connected to either or both: a lock that anchors the device to a stationary object, and/or parts of the protected device that might be stolen or vandalized. The alarm unit is built and wired in such a way that the lock or parts of the protected device may not be significantly tampered with or removed without triggering the alarm. Externally-mounted alarm units preferably include a weather-proof casing, which contains a unique clamping feature that makes the alarm tamper-resistant or tamper-proof. The alarm casing may contain a sound chamber that preferably amplifies the alarm sound, waterproofs the alarm component, and prevents a thief from muffling the sound.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2001Date of Patent: April 16, 2002Inventors: Vickie Tikkanen, Paul Tikkanen
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Patent number: 6359551Abstract: An indication device of the present invention includes a case body provided to a movable portion during in use by a both-sided adhesive tape or a fitting; luminous body provided with the case body and emits a light or a blinking light by using electric current generated in a power source; a first ON/OFF switch with an optical sensor interposed between the power source and luminous body, and a second ON/OFF switch turning on automatically during use. Therefore, the indication device can allow the others to become aware of person's whereabouts by emitting light or blinking light when in use. The device can be turned off automatically to prevent dissipation of power.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 2000Date of Patent: March 19, 2002Inventor: Yoshimitsu Suda
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Publication number: 20020030589Abstract: To provide a device capable of firmly mounting a radio communication unit to a helmet in a simple manner without impairing the beauty and handleability of the helmet when the radio communication unit is detached from the helmet. The device for mounting a radio communication unit to a helmet includes a pair of couplers having a chucking function and a pair of magnetic connectors having a magnetically chucking function. The pair of magnetic connectors are provided with electrical contacts adapted to turn conductive when in a chucked condition. Furthermore, one of the pair of couplers and one of the pair of magnetic connectors is disposed on an outer surface of the helmet, while the other of the pair of couplers and the other of the pair of magnetic connectors is disposed on a main surface of the radio communication unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 13, 2001Publication date: March 14, 2002Inventors: Hajime Tabata, Yukio Miyamaru, Nutsumi Katayama
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Publication number: 20020030601Abstract: In view of a possibility that a conventional structure which mounts a pressure-sensitive riding detection sensor on a seat bottom plate and mounts a seat cushion on the riding detection sensor lowers the sensitivity of the riding detection sensor, the present invention arranges the riding detection sensor such that the riding detection sensor can have favorable sensitivity. A lower seat cushion is arranged on a seat bottom plate of a seat, and a seat switch is supported on the lower seat cushion. A seat cushion body which is made thin by the thickness of the lower seat cushion is mounted on the seat switch, and a seat skin covers an upper surface of the seat cushion body.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 19, 2001Publication date: March 14, 2002Inventors: Kengo Yano, Tadashi Onozuka, Yuji Ono
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Patent number: 6351209Abstract: A security system for selectively enabling and disabling the internal combustion engine of a vehicle is provided. The security system includes a security module which selectively interrupts current to or from crucial vehicle subsystems which are necessary for engine ignition or engine operation. The security module attaches and locks to the electrical terminal of a vehicle subsystem so that the security module cannot be removed from the engine compartment of a vehicle without removing the entire vehicle subsystem. Moreover, the security module covers and isolates the electrical terminal of the vehicle subsystem so as to electrically isolate the electrical terminal from unauthorized access. The security system further includes a controller and a switching element which are located within the security module for selectively controlling the flow of current from a conductive path to or from the vehicle subsystem which is sought to be controllably enabled and disabled.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2000Date of Patent: February 26, 2002Assignee: Ultimate Security Systems CorporationInventor: Brian Snyder
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Patent number: 6317036Abstract: A voice alert system 10 for use on bicycles and similar human-powered vehicles. When triggered by the user, it generates one or more safety alerts in the form of pre-established voice messages. It consists of a switch assembly connected to a random-access voice playback module, which in turn drives an amplifier and forward-facing speaker. These components are supported by a main housing and a speaker housing, which in turn are attached to the the host bicycle by means of a clamp assembly. The switch assembly includes at least one switch for producing a triggering signal. On receipt of the triggering signal, the voice playback module produces an electrical representation of a pre-established voice alert, which is amplified by the amplifier and projected by the speaker. Optionally, one or more additional switches are provided to trigger one or more additional voice alerts.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 2000Date of Patent: November 13, 2001Inventors: Pradeep P. Popat, Mara R. Peltz
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Publication number: 20010026217Abstract: The invention provides a display device for vehicles capable of quickly and reliably displaying high-priority and high-emergency information, while maintaining sufficient display space for other information. The vehicles may be of the type including a trunk provided with a cover. The display device has a display section in which display patterns are used. The display device includes an open position detecting device which detects that the cover of the trunk is open. A warning design pattern producing device generates a warning design pattern which visually expresses a warning when the cover is open. A warning display priority device displays the warning design pattern, prior to other information, on the display section when the cover is detected to be open.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 30, 2001Publication date: October 4, 2001Inventors: Takashi Sumada, Yoshifumi Mochizuki, Koji Kano, Koji Suzuki, Koichi Shimamura
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Publication number: 20010019304Abstract: Embodiments of an alarm system are described, which may be mounted or built-in to a bicycle or other device which is in need of anti-theft protection. A loud alarm is connected to or mounted in the protected device, and is operatively connected to either or both: a lock that anchors the device to a stationary object, and/or parts of the protected device that might be stolen or vandalized. The alarm unit is built and wired in such a way that the lock or parts of the protected device may not be significantly tampered with or removed without triggering the alarm. Externally-mounted alarm units preferably include a weather-proof casing, which contains a unique clamping feature that makes the alarm tamper-resistant or tamper-proof. The alarm casing may contain a sound chamber that preferably amplifies the alarm sound, waterproofs the alarm component, and prevents a thief from muffling the sound.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2001Publication date: September 6, 2001Inventors: Vickie Tikkanen, Paul Tikkanen
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Patent number: 6268794Abstract: An intergated secruity, tip-over, and turn signal system for a motorcycle. The system provides multiple-functions with one control unit and a simplified wiring network. The system provides vehicle turn signal control including automatic turn-off of turn signal lamps at the end of a turn. The systems monitors the lateral forces acting on the motorcycle and disables the turn signal lamps, starter system, and fuel system when a tip-over condition is detected. For theft deterrence and prevention, the system allows a rider to disable the vehicle starter and ignition systems while the vehicle is parked. Tamper sensors in the system activate turn signals and an audible alarm if tampering is detected.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2000Date of Patent: July 31, 2001Assignee: Harley-Davidson Motor Company Group, Inc.Inventor: Oleg Tzanev
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Patent number: 6259375Abstract: A warning system in the highway or road immediately adjacent to a pedestrian crossing, school crossing, or railroad grade crossing. The embedded warning system consists of a series of strobe lights powered by a nearby electrical source such as a traffic light, flashing warning light, railroad crossing light and/or gate system or other potential source of electricity. A trough containing the lights is submerged, extending to a depth of 9 to 15 inches below grade. The trough is 8 to 12 feet in length and 5 inches wide. The trough is placed parallel to or perpendicular to the direction of traffic so as to cross the path of oncoming traffic. A series of 4 to 9 strobe lights connected together, having a colored filter of amber or red, is placed along the bottom of the trough. The sides and bottom of the trough are lined with a reflective material made of, for example, highway reflective light beads, a highly polished reflective material, or other reflective material.Type: GrantFiled: June 13, 2000Date of Patent: July 10, 2001Inventor: Roger J. Andras
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Patent number: 6243005Abstract: An electronic seal including a housing, alarm circuitry which when actuated provides an alarm signal, a wire extending from the housing and in electrical communication with the alarm circuitry, a locking element which selectively lockingly engages the wire to the housing, and a switch external to the housing in electrical communication with the locking element which selectively unlocks the locking element to release the wire. There is also provided an electronic seal including a housing including alarm circuitry, the alarm circuitry when actuated providing an alarm signal, a wire extending from the housing and in electrical communication with the alarm circuitry, the wire being attached at a first point and at a second point thereof to the housing, a portion of the wire between the first and second points, called a tying portion, being suitable for tying an object, wherein tampering with the tying portion actuates the alarm circuitry, and an adjustment device for adjusting a length of the tying portion.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 1999Date of Patent: June 5, 2001Assignee: Hi-F-Tek Ltd.Inventors: Yosef Haimovich, Yehuda Armoni, Michael Auerbach
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Patent number: 6236307Abstract: A vehicle alarm system for use with a lock (1) that is attachable to a vehicle wheel (2). The alarm system includes a lock motion detection sensor (20) and a transmitter (15) to transmit signals from the detection sensor. The motion detection sensor and the transmitter are located inside the lock. The vehicle includes a receiver (24) that receives the detection signals sent by the transmitter (15), an alarm (4) that emits a warning sound, and an operations control unit (25) that sounds the alarm in response to the signal from the receiver. The control unit and alarm are powered by the vehicle's battery (7).Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 1999Date of Patent: May 22, 2001Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha AiaishiInventor: Yoshiaki Kurano
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Patent number: 6213910Abstract: A bicycle antitheft device includes an antitheft mechanism switchable between an antitheft state and a release state, wherein the antitheft mechanism includes a first member that moves relative to a second member to move the bicycle forward and backward. A movement controlling mechanism hinders the first member from moving relative to the second member when the antitheft mechanism is in the antitheft state, and a selection mechanism is provided for selecting one of the antitheft state and the release state. Alternatively, the antitheft mechanism may include a sound generator for generating a sound when the first member moves relative to the second member and the antitheft mechanism is in the antitheft state. The movement controlling mechanism and the sound generator may be combined into a single antitheft mechanism.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 1997Date of Patent: April 10, 2001Assignee: Shimano, Inc.Inventors: Nobuyuki Matsuo, Hiroyuki Ookouchi, Hitoshi Kishimoto, Takuro Yamane
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Patent number: 6216078Abstract: An electrical operating device for a bicycle includes a brake control device adapted to be mounted to a handlebar of the bicycle and a switching device integrated with the brake control device. The brake control device includes a first operating member that moves along a first path for controlling the operation of a brake, and the switching device outputs electrical signals in response to movement of the switching device along a second path different from the first path.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 1997Date of Patent: April 10, 2001Assignee: Shimano, Inc.Inventors: Masahiko Jinbo, Masahiko Fukuda, Takeo Abe
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Patent number: 6216060Abstract: A bicycle display device includes a display having a plurality of display elements, an input circuit for inputting a plurality of sensor signals from a plurality of sensors, and a display control circuit for processing the plurality of sensor signals and for displaying information processed from the plurality of sensor signals on the display. An operating mode switch is provided for switching the display control circuit among a plurality of operating modes, wherein the plurality of operating modes comprises a normal operating mode, a display diagnostic mode, and an input diagnostic mode. A display mode switch is also provided for switching the type of data displayed on the display control circuit.Type: GrantFiled: July 1, 1998Date of Patent: April 10, 2001Assignee: Shimano, Inc.Inventor: Hitoshi Kishimoto
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Patent number: 6191685Abstract: Embodiments of an alarm system are described, which may be mounted or built-in to a bicycle or other device which is in need of anti-theft protection. A loud alarm is connected to or mounted in the protected device, and is operatively connected to either or both: a lock that anchors the device to a stationary object, and/or parts of the protected device that might be stolen or vandalized. The alarm unit is built and wired in such a way that the lock or parts of the protected device may not be significantly tampered with or removed without triggering the alarm. For example, the alarm system is adapted to sound if a bicycle lock is tampered with or if sensors transmit that a bicycle part is being moved or tampered with. Externally-mounted alarm units preferably include a weather-proof casing, which contains a unique clamping feature that makes the alarm tamper-resistant or tamper-proof.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 1999Date of Patent: February 20, 2001Inventors: Vickie Theofanous, Paul Tikkanen
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Patent number: 6154132Abstract: The present invention relates to a display system for a theft-preventing apparatus mounted on a vehicle, and an object of the present invention is to provide a display system in which a display device can be commonly used for two kinds of theft-preventing apparatuses. A security ECU (20) outputs a continuous lighting signal when set to a waiting state, and stops outputting the signal in a cautioning state. An immobilizer ECU (22) outputs a blinking signal to a light-emitting device (50) only when the cautioning state is set. Accordingly, the light-emitting device (50) is turned off when both the security apparatus and the immobilizer apparatus are set to a resting state. Additionally, the light-emitting device (50) is continuously lighted when the security apparatus is in the waiting state. Further, the light-emitting device (50) is being blinked when the security apparatus is not set to the waiting state and the immobilizer apparatus is set to the cautioning state.Type: GrantFiled: August 24, 1999Date of Patent: November 28, 2000Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Koji Iwamoto, Manabu Mizutani, Masachika Kamiya, Takao Akatsuka
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Patent number: 6148262Abstract: A sports computer having an integral global satellite positioning (GPS) receiver and computer interfacing capability enables functional and/or performance characteristics to be tracked and analyzed as a function of geographical position and/or elevation. The computer includes mounting means and/or interfaces to one or more sensors to measure operational and/or physiological parameters such as heart rate, or weather conditions such as temperature. Means are provided for downloading the stored geographical and sensor parameters to an external personal computer so that the data collected during a workout may be reviewed and analyzed on the screen of the PC. Preferably, map data may also be stored enabling the collected data to be viewed relative to the map information, for example, in superposition.Type: GrantFiled: December 13, 1999Date of Patent: November 14, 2000Inventor: William R. Fry
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Patent number: 6127924Abstract: A security system includes a control center, a controller installed in a car, a plurality of base stations installed in gas stations and houses, and a releaser. When a car owner finds that his/her car has been stolen, he/she can make a telephone call to the control center. The control center is guided to call the controller through a pager network and command the controller to enter into a searching mode to transmit a searching signal to search for a base station. After a base station receives and confirms the searching signal, the base station transmits a control signal to activate the controller to stop supplying gas and electricity to the car whereby the car is locked and located. In addition, each base station is integrated with a home security and remote control system to enhance its capability.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 1999Date of Patent: October 3, 2000Inventor: Chin-Hui Hung
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Patent number: 6109770Abstract: A light signaling device (30) including a removable lighting device (32,34) and a security device (36, 44, 50) integral with the lighting device (32, 34) and lockable to a vehicle, such as a two-wheeled vehicle. The security device also serves to immobilize the vehicle. The lighting device may include a front signaling light source and a rear signaling light source housed in respective housings (32, 34). The security device includes a mechanical link (36) such as a wiring or steel strip between the housings, and a connecting device (42-70) for joining and locking the housings together.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 1998Date of Patent: August 29, 2000Assignee: Kim CharlesInventors: Henri Choimet, Kim Charles
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Patent number: 6100793Abstract: 1. An integrated vehicle and building alarm system for protecting at least one vehicle located adjacent a building, comprising at least one vehicle alarm device, located within the vehicle, having means for detecting an intrusion into the vehicle, means for producing an audible alert in response to said intrusion, and means for activating an alarm signal when said intrusion occurs. The system also comprises a building alarm device having a plurality of input ports corresponding to a number of protected zones, the device is located within the building and has means for detecting the alarm signal on the input ports. In addition, the device has means for generating an alert signal when an alarm signal occurs. A junction box, having at least one input port and at least one output port, is located inside the building. An attachment cable is electrically connected between the vehicle alarm device and the input port of the junction box.Type: GrantFiled: February 1, 1999Date of Patent: August 8, 2000Inventor: George A. Dimou
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Patent number: 6060982Abstract: The anti-theft alarm system includes a base unit which is shaped and sized to fit in a bicycle accessory such as a water bottle or to fit on a water bottle cage or on a bicycle component such as a seat frame at a location where it is concealed from view. The base unit has a microprocessor and a shock sensor which in reponse to tilt or other movement of the sensor (and bicycle) allows electrical current to flow through the microprocessor which outputs a signal into either just an alarm in some embodiments or into both a radio transceiver and an alarm in other embodiments. The transceiver emits a signal to a remote unit which is sufficiently compact that it may be carried by a user and which includes a second transceiver and an auditory or vibration alarm. The second transceiver activates the auditory or vibration alarm in response to receipt of the signal from the transceiver of the base unit thereby alerting the user to theft or attempted theft of the bicycle.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 1998Date of Patent: May 9, 2000Inventor: Perryn H. J. Holtrop
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Patent number: 6043733Abstract: A lock for a vehicle such as a motorcycle includes a housing having a U-shaped portion and a transverse portion attached thereto. A first terminal end of the U-shaped portion is removeably received within an opening on the transverse portion allowing the housing to be secured about a portion of a vehicle. Removeably received within the transverse portion is a tubular insert having a keypad thereon in communication with an audible alarm means. The alarm means is in communication with a wire disposed within the U-shaped portion for emitting an audible alarm if the U-shaped portion is severed. The alarm means also activates a cellular transmission means for automatically dialing a predetermined number upon the alarm means being activated.Type: GrantFiled: August 19, 1998Date of Patent: March 28, 2000Inventor: Carl E. Lind
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Patent number: 6040763Abstract: An economical and highly reliable vehicle theft prevention device imposes a reduced load on a vehicle's battery. The theft prevention device includes a remote control having a transmitter. On the vehicle, there is provided a current controlling circuit which allows a receiver for the transmitter to operate for only a predetermined period of time. The receiver is allowed to operate for the predetermined period of time immediately after the ignition switch is opened, and immediately after a designated electrical accessory switch of the vehicle is closed.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 1997Date of Patent: March 21, 2000Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Yoshiyuki Nakajima