Engine Starting Interlock Patents (Class 477/99)
  • Publication number: 20130040781
    Abstract: A method for determining a startup gear in a motor vehicle for starting from standstill while maintaining a load limit of the clutch in a the drive train which comprises a drive engine built as an internal combustion engine, a friction clutch, and an automatic stepped transmission. To avoid overloading the clutch, the method determines a load-independent startup gear with which startup would occur under the present starting conditions without considering the current load state of the clutch and without complying with a load limit of the clutch. A load-specific startup gear is determined as the highest startup gear, with which during a startup under the present starting conditions, a predefined load limit of the clutch would be maintained with consideration given to the present load state of the clutch. The startup gear is the lowest of the load-independent startup gear and the at least one load-specific startup gear.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 2, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventor: Roland Mair
  • Patent number: 8371987
    Abstract: In an automatic speed change control system for a vehicle wherein a transmission is operated by use of an actuator, to contrive an alleviation of the burden in a shifting operation made by the user after a system starting operation. A shift actuator for controlling the speed change operation of the transmission is provided in a power transmission path. When the transmission is not in a neutral condition at the time when a predetermined system starting operation is conducted, the shift actuator is operated so as to put the transmission into the neutral condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshiaki Tsukada, Takashi Ozeki, Hiroyuki Kojima, Yoshiaki Nedachi
  • Publication number: 20120316030
    Abstract: An ignition control type auto lever device may disclose shift mode control signals for P(parking)-R(rear)-N(neutral)-D(drive) that are generated by movement of an auto lever according to a gate pattern, another mode control signal that is generated by movement of the auto lever to a section behind the D(drive), and electric signals generated by at least one or more different operations of the auto lever at a section positioned ahead of the P(parking) position that are sent to a PIC (Personal Identification Card) system.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 3, 2011
    Publication date: December 13, 2012
    Applicants: Hyundai Motor Company, SL Corporation, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Jeehyuck Choi, Yangrae Cho, Chunnyung Heo, Kwanggi Lee
  • Publication number: 20120252628
    Abstract: When a P lock state is set on the basis of a predetermined request signal for setting the P lock state, a P position indicator lamp (62) is turned on or off on the basis of the status of power supplied to the vehicle (10). For example, when the P lock state is set, the P position indicator lamp (62) is turned off when the power status is an ALL-OFF status where a combination meter (56), or the like, is not turned on or is raised to an ACC-ON status; whereas, when the P lock state is set, the P position indicator lamp (62) is turned on when the power status is an IG-ON status, when the power status is changed from the IG-ON status during vehicle driving to the ACC-ON status, or within a predetermined period of time from when the power status is changed from the IG-ON status to the ALL-OFF status.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2010
    Publication date: October 4, 2012
    Inventors: Takahiko Tsutsumi, Keisuke Sekiya, Koki Ueno, Ichiro Kitaori, Toshinari Suzuki
  • Publication number: 20120231927
    Abstract: A driver controllable low speed mode for a stop/start technology-equipped vehicle. The vehicle comprises an internal combustion engine with stop/start technology having an engine controller, a transmission connected to the internal combustion engine, and a shifter connected to the transmission and the engine controller. The shifter is operable to place the transmission into one of a plurality of operating modes, the operating modes including at least a low speed mode wherein stop/start technology is disabled. The engine controller is operable to detect vehicle operation above a speed or acceleration threshold and cause an audible chime or message to be played or a visual cue displayed to prompt the driver to deactivate the low speed mode. The engine controller is further operable to detect a sustained acceleration attempt when the transmission is in low speed mode and to disable low speed mode for a predetermined period of time upon this detection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2011
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventors: Brian E. Beechie, John D. Mueller, Jeffrey M. Orzechowski, Anurag Peter Varma
  • Patent number: 8225632
    Abstract: A key interlock device for a vehicle, may include a shift lever moving straight at least in two perpendicular directions between a predetermined range and a P-range in sequence, a key lock lever pivotally coupled to a vehicle body and rotatable by a second straight movement of the shift lever between the predetermined range and the P-range, and a motion transmitting member coupled to an end portion of the key lock lever and transmitting the rotation of the key lock lever to a key set as a straight motion while the other end portion of the key lock lever moves in the second straight movement from/to the P-range of the shift lever by the shift lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Dohyon Won
  • Patent number: 8224538
    Abstract: An automatic transmission includes gears, torque-transmitting mechanisms, interconnecting members, an input member and an output member. A method of controlling the automatic transmission includes data acquisition from the output shaft torque sensor, commanding a hydraulic fluid pressure pulse time and a pressure pulse value to engage a first torque-transmitting mechanism, calculating a rate-of-change of a first data output from the output shaft torque sensor, calculating a rate-of-change of a second data output from the output shaft torque sensor, comparing the results of the rate-of-change calculations and adjusting the hydraulic fluid pressure pulse time and a pressure pulse value if the rate of change of the second data output is not equal to the rate-of-change of the first data output.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Zhen Zhang, Shushan Bai, John R. Maten
  • Patent number: 8197387
    Abstract: A shift lever assembly utilizing a single switch to produce a first signal indicating that a transmission of a vehicle is in a park position and a second signal to authorize removal of a key from an ignition of the vehicle is disclosed. The switch includes a casing supporting a plunger having a first park indication contact and a first key removal contact. The casing includes a second park indication contact and a second key removal contact. The first park indication contact engages the second park indication contact when the plunger is in a rest position and is disengaged from the second park indication contact when the plunger is in a depressed position. The first key removal contact is disengaged from the second key removal contact when the plunger is in the rest position and engages the second key removal contact when the plunger is in the depressed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: Steering Solutions IP Holding Corporation
    Inventors: Michael C. Vermeersch, Larry W. Burr
  • Patent number: 8145399
    Abstract: Method and arrangement for providing an electronic gear shift selector associated with an automatic mechanical transmission for a heavy vehicle. The gear shift selector includes a toggle switch for asserting at least one gear shift request, a counter receiving the at least one gear shift request, and a time delay for preventing communication of the at least one gear shift request from the counter until a predefined time period has passed. A method for communicating a collective gear shift request to a gear box includes asserting one or more gear shift requests with a gear shift selector, communicating the gear shift requests to a counter, determining the collective gear shift requests occurring within a predefined time period, communicating the gear shift requests occurring within the predefined time period to a gearbox.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar AB
    Inventors: Anders Lindgren, Anders Eriksson
  • Patent number: 8128531
    Abstract: A key interlock control system may include a parking position switch unit configured to detect whether a gearshift lever is located in a parking position; an ignition switch unit configured to be electrically connected to at least a power terminal for supplying electrical power to at least an electric or electronic component by manipulation of an ignition key; and a control unit configured to receive a signal from the parking position switch unit and a signal from the ignition switch unit and to determine whether the ignition key is to be locked by a key interlock unit based on the signals of the parking position switch unit and the ignition switch unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2012
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Jin Sang Chung
  • Patent number: 8087317
    Abstract: The invention relates to an interface system for a vehicle having a starter motor and a transmission control lever. There is a need for such an interface system which senses control lever position and prevents starter motor operation unless the control lever is in a park position. The interface system includes a plurality of magnet members generating magnetic fields, and a plurality of magnetic sensors or Hall effect switches mounted to the lever so that movement of the lever causes the magnetic sensors to move through the magnetic fields. An interface circuit is connected to the starter motor and to the magnetic sensors. The interface circuit and the sensors cooperate to generate lever position signals. The interface circuit and the sensors also cooperate to prevent activation of the starter motor unless the lever is in its park position. Thus, the same lever position sensors are used by the transmission control system and are used to control operation of the starter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Assignee: Deere & Company
    Inventor: David Joseph Easton
  • Patent number: 8075446
    Abstract: A key interlock system of a vehicle equipped with an automatic transmission satisfies a condition of a key interlock system that allows a shift lever 3 inserted in a P-range groove (Parking) 2a to be shifted to other ranges (R-range, N-range, and D-range) only by turning a key inserted in a key hole of an ignition lock cylinder 42 to ‘ON’, and a condition of a key interlock system that allows the key to be removed from the key hole of ignition lock cylinder 42 only when shift lever 3 is positioned at P-range (Parking) 2a, by using a mechanical structure. Therefore, it is possible to achieve a key interlock system that can be manufactured at a low cost, does not make noise, and does not easily break down, as compared with electronic devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignees: KIA Motors Corporation, Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Wonjin Jeong
  • Publication number: 20110275478
    Abstract: A method of operating at least one form-locking shifting element of an automatic transmission integrated in a drivetrain which comprises an oil pump that can be driven mechanically by an internal combustion engine and an auxiliary oil pump that can be electrically driven, before start-up of the internal combustion engine. The method including the steps of recognizing the start-up of the combustion engine and, when a start-up of the combustion engine is recognized, controlling the electrically driven auxiliary oil pump and the at least one form-locking shifting element such that, directly after the generation of a defined rotational speed difference of the at least one form-locking shifting element by the internal combustion engine, the at least one form-locking shifting element is engaged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2011
    Publication date: November 10, 2011
    Applicant: ZF Friedrichshafen AG
    Inventors: Ruben Cüppers, Thilo SCHMIDT
  • Patent number: 7952222
    Abstract: A hydraulic control system includes a key detector that detects whether an ignition key is in an on state, a control portion that outputs different control signals according to whether the engine is on if the key is on, and a valve, such as a solenoid valve, that controls gear shifts according to the control signals from the control portion. A hydraulic control method includes determining whether an ignition key is on; determining whether an engine is on or off if the key is on; and controlling a valve, such as a solenoid valve, that controls gear shifts, differently depending on whether the engine is on or off, such as by applying different duty values to the valve. A low duty value may be applied to the valve when the engine is off, and a higher duty value may be applied to the valve when the engine is on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation, Aisin Aw Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hyun Ku Lee, Yoshio Koike, Ryogo Kato, Yoshizou Akita, Kiyotaka Wakamatsu
  • Patent number: 7935021
    Abstract: A vehicle-starting-engine-torque restricting device is provided to restrict engine torque upon starting of a vehicle with an engine used as a vehicle drive power source, so that a required output of a first electric motor which generates a reaction force corresponding to the engine torque can be made smaller than when the engine torque is not restricted. Namely, the vehicle-starting-engine-torque restricting device eliminates a need of increasing the maximum output of the first electric motor to generate the reaction force corresponding to the engine torque, making it possible to reduce the required size of the first electric motor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 3, 2011
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Atsushi Tabata, Yutaka Taga, Atsushi Kamada
  • Publication number: 20110053735
    Abstract: Various systems and methods are described for controlling an engine in a vehicle, the engine being coupled to a transmission. One example method comprises, under selected braking conditions, shutting-off the engine and spinning-down the engine to rest while the vehicle is traveling, and in response to a foot-off-brake event, restarting the engine by at least partially engaging the transmission and adjusting engine torque control actuators.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 1, 2009
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Donald J. Lewis, Gopichandra Surnilla, Ross Dykstra Pursifull
  • Patent number: 7881835
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method and a system for controlling start-up of a motor vehicle by dialogue of the engine controlling computer with the piloted mechanical gearbox, during a restart of the vehicle in stop and start mode. A “start-up authorization” is transmitted to the gearbox at a time t when the following three conditions are fulfilled: a) verifying the position of the accelerator pedal relative to a predetermined “threshold” position; b) the engine is in sequential injection phase; c) verifying a so-called “autonomous condition”, calculated on the basis of the engine speed and of an engine speed gradient compared to a predetermined threshold value. The invention is applicable to motor vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2011
    Assignee: Peugeot Citroen Automobiles SA
    Inventor: Jean-Christophe Denis
  • Publication number: 20100255953
    Abstract: A vehicle system includes a transmission shifting means, an authorization means, an engine, and a control system. The transmission shifting means is capable of being shifted between a first position and a second position, where the first position represents a start mode. The authorization means adapted to detect an identification signal and to supply an authorization signal indicating the identification signal has been verified. The engine is adapted to turn on and to turn off. The control system is in operable communication with the transmission shifting means, the authorization means, and the engine. When the transmission shifting means is shifted to the first position, the transmission shifting means sends a first signal to the control system, the control system detects whether the authorization signal has been received from the authorization means, and if received, the control system provides a first command to the engine to turn on.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 3, 2009
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.
    Inventors: SCOTT A. MCCULLOUGH, INGOBERT K. LASSRICH, DAVID T. PROEFKE, FRED W. HUNTZICKER
  • Publication number: 20100184562
    Abstract: A controller stops a fuel injection when a vehicle is in a specified decelerate condition where the vehicle likely stops and an automatic stop requirement is generated. An input shaft and an output shaft of a shift transmission mechanism are directly connected with each other through a direct connector so that a driving power is transmitted from an engine to a driving shaft through a power transmitter which permits a sliding between an input shaft and an output shaft thereof. When a restart requirement is generated before the vehicle is completely stopped, the engine is restarted under a condition where the input shaft and the output shaft of the shift transmission mechanism are connected with each other by a direct connector. When the restart requirement is not generated before the vehicle is completely stopped, the input shaft and the output shaft are disconnected when the vehicle is completely stopped.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 12, 2010
    Publication date: July 22, 2010
    Applicant: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takashi SENDA, Akira Katoh, Kenji Kawahara
  • Patent number: 7749135
    Abstract: The interlock system includes a shaft that defines a longitudinal axis which the shaft rotates about during transmission shift operations. A transmission shift lever is coupled to the shaft, and an inhibitor pin is coupled to the ignition switch by a cable. The inhibitor pin engages the transmission shift lever to prevent shift operations when the ignition switch is in the off position. The inhibitor pin disengages the transmission shift lever when the ignition switch is positioned in the accessory position or a start/run position. The shaft includes a recess into which the inhibitor pin extends when the shaft is in the neutral or drive position to permit disconnection of the accessory circuit by moving the ignition switch to a mid position (between the off position and the accessory position) without placing the shaft in the park position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael C. Vermeersch, Gregory P. Ruth
  • Patent number: 7659638
    Abstract: A neutral starter interlock for motorcycles, a form of electronic safety circuit, is disclosed. The interlock is designed as a retrofit especially for Harley-Davidson® Big Twin and Sportster® motorcycles manufactured prior to model-year 2007 and factory equipped with an electric starter and a neutral indicator light. The interlock circuit interconnects the neutral indicator circuit (between the battery and the transmission neutral switch) and the starting circuit (between the battery and the starter solenoid) of the motorcycle, and includes an electronic relay that bars current from flowing from the battery to the starter solenoid unless the motorcycle's transmission is in neutral. This prevents unanticipated movement of the motorcycle if an attempt is made to start the engine with the transmission in gear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 9, 2010
    Inventor: Theodore Paul Hoehn
  • Publication number: 20100022349
    Abstract: A key interlock system of a vehicle equipped with an automatic transmission satisfies a condition of a key interlock system that allows a shift lever 3 inserted in a P-range groove (Parking) 2a to be shifted to other ranges (R-range, N-range, and D-range) only by turning a key inserted in a key hole of an ignition lock cylinder 42 to ‘ON’, and a condition of a key interlock system that allows the key to be removed from the key hole of ignition lock cylinder 42 only when shift lever 3 is positioned at P-range (Parking) 2a, by using a mechanical structure. Therefore, it is possible to achieve a key interlock system that can be manufactured at a low cost, does not make noise, and does not easily break down, as compared with electronic devices.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2009
    Publication date: January 28, 2010
    Applicants: Kia Motors Corporation, Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Wonjin JEONG
  • Publication number: 20090298643
    Abstract: A key interlock control system may include a parking position switch unit configured to detect whether a gearshift lever is located in a parking position; an ignition switch unit configured to be electrically connected to at least a power terminal for supplying electrical power to at least an electric or electronic component by manipulation of an ignition key; and a control unit configured to receive a signal from the parking position switch unit and a signal from the ignition switch unit and to determine whether the ignition key is to be locked by a key interlock unit based on the signals of the parking position switch unit and the ignition switch unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2008
    Publication date: December 3, 2009
    Applicants: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY, KIA MOTORS CORPORATION
    Inventor: Jin Sang CHUNG
  • Patent number: 7617896
    Abstract: An electric vehicle is provided with an electric motor and a transmission capable of being shifted by a shift mechanism from a neutral state to a start-up speed stage selected state in which a speed stage for start-up of the vehicle has been selected. On a request for a shift from the neutral state to the start-up speed stage selected state, an ECU performs the requested shift by controlling the shift mechanism. If the shift to the start-up speed stage selected state is not completed within a first specified time, the ECU performs a rotating position control in which the motor is controlled to produce a predetermined minute torque in forward and backward rotation directions of the motor, alternately, and a gear of the speed stage for start-up is caused to oscillate in a rotation direction by the minute torque being transmitted to an input shaft of the transmission.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 17, 2009
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus Corporation
    Inventor: Makoto Ogata
  • Patent number: 7597649
    Abstract: An automatic transmission shifter assembly comprises a shift lever support configured for attachment to a vehicle, a shift lever mounted to the shift lever support to shift between transmission gear settings; a brake transmission system interlock (BTSI) comprising a shift lever control member controllable by actuation of a solenoid or other powered actuator to selectively block the shift lever from moving out of the PARK position. An electronic ignition switch, an ignition actuator and an ignition key interlock are mounted to the shift lever support. The ignition key interlock comprises an interlock member controllable by the ignition actuator to selectively block the solenoid from moving the shift lever control member to the unblock position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignee: Dura Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Yong Qiang Wang
  • Patent number: 7559874
    Abstract: A shift mechanism for a transmission in a vehicle includes a housing, a shift lever, a key cylinder and an actuator. The actuator operably connects to the key cylinder and is capable of movement between a first position that prevents the shift lever from changing shift positions, and a second position that allows the shift lever to change shift positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2009
    Assignee: Chrysler LLC
    Inventors: Gregory F. Fischer, Donald J. Stewart, Scott Munro, Robert L. Brown, David P. Jacobs
  • Patent number: 7539571
    Abstract: A non-contact neutral sensing apparatus with directional feedback in a vehicle directional control system for an agricultural or construction vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: Richard P. Strosser, Zachary Scmook, Douglas R. Otto, David G. Lutz
  • Publication number: 20090111648
    Abstract: A method of automatically controlling a neutral position and parking lock of an motor-vehicle transmission to immobilize the vehicle depending on a drive position of the transmission selected by the driver with a selector device and subject to other operating parameters of the motor vehicle. Only when simultaneously the vehicle is essentially stationary, an ignition circuit is electrically interrupted and the selector device is in a “Neutral” position, can an Neutral-holding phase be activated, in which the transmission is in a non-frictionally engaged neutral position as long as the parking lock of the transmission has not yet been engaged. If the Neutral-holding phase has not been activated, the transmission remains non-frictionally connected in the Neutral position until the driver at least intends to exit the vehicle, at which time the parking lock of the transmission is automatically engaged.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventors: Walter HECHT, Armin GIERLING, Klaus STEINHAUSER, Frank WORMS, Bernd ZANGLEIN, Stephane KLEIN
  • Publication number: 20090111647
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method to select a neutral position of an automatic or automated motor vehicle transmission and to select a parking gear provided to immobilize a motor vehicle, wherein the neutral position and parking device can be set or activated, depending on a gear selected by the driver of the motor vehicle on a selector device and depending on other operating parameters of the motor vehicle. In addition, the invention relates to a motor vehicle controlled by this method. It is proposed that only if the motor vehicle is at least almost stopped and simultaneously an ignition circuit acting on the drive motor vehicle is electrically interrupted and simultaneously a “Neutral (N) gear is selected on a selector device, an N-holding phase, in which the transmission is in a friction-free neutral position, can be activated by a separate control device provided in addition to the selector device, as long as an energy management system of the motor vehicle allows the activation of the N-holding phase.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventors: Walter HECHT, Armin GIERLING, Klaus STEINHAUSER, Frank WORMS, Bernd ZANGLEIN, Stephane KLEIN
  • Publication number: 20090111649
    Abstract: A method for selecting a neutral position of an automatic or automated motor vehicle transmission and for selecting a parking device of the motor vehicle intended for immobilizing the motor vehicle, wherein the neutral position and the parking device can be engaged or actuated as a function of a position chosen by the driver of the motor vehicle on a selector device and as a function of other operating parameters of the motor vehicle. The invention further relates to a motor vehicle controlled by this method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 24, 2008
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AG
    Inventors: Walter HECHT, Armin GIERLING, Klaus STEINHAUSER, Frank WORMS, Bernd ZANGLEIN, Stephane KLEIN
  • Publication number: 20090082175
    Abstract: In an automatic speed change control system for a vehicle wherein a transmission is operated by use of an actuator, to contrive an alleviation of the burden in a shifting operation made by the user after a system starting operation. A shift actuator for controlling the speed change operation of the transmission is provided in a power transmission path. When the transmission is not in a neutral condition at the time when a predetermined system starting operation is conducted, the shift actuator is operated so as to put the transmission into the neutral condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 23, 2008
    Publication date: March 26, 2009
    Inventors: Yoshiaki TSUKADA, Takashi Ozeki, Hiroyuki Kojima, Yoshiaki Nedachi
  • Publication number: 20090069152
    Abstract: The interlock system includes a shaft that defines a longitudinal axis which the shaft rotates about during transmission shift operations. A transmission shift lever is coupled to the shaft, and an inhibitor pin is coupled to the ignition switch by a cable. The inhibitor pin engages the transmission shift lever to prevent shift operations when the ignition switch is in the off position. The inhibitor pin disengages the transmission shift lever when the ignition switch is positioned in the accessory position or a start/run position. The shaft includes a recess into which the inhibitor pin extends when the shaft is in the neutral or drive position to permit disconnection of the accessory circuit by moving the ignition switch to a mid position (between the off position and the accessory position) without placing the shaft in the park position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2007
    Publication date: March 12, 2009
    Inventors: Michael C. Vermeersch, Gregory P. Ruth
  • Publication number: 20090024287
    Abstract: Internal combustion engine with a power train, to which a torque of a starter can be transferred, wherein the power train is connected to the crankshaft of the internal combustion engine via a clutch, and in so doing, the clutch has an engaged position, wherein a drive torque from the starter can be transferred to the crankshaft, and a disengaged position, wherein the drive torque from the starter cannot be transferred to the crankshaft.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2008
    Publication date: January 22, 2009
    Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Jochen Laubender
  • Publication number: 20080318731
    Abstract: The invention concerns a method and a system for controlling start-up of a motor vehicle by dialogue of the engine controlling computer with the piloted mechanical gearbox, during a restart of the vehicle in stop and start mode. A “start-up authorization” is transmitted to the gearbox at a time t when the following three conditions are fulfilled: a) verifying the position of the accelerator pedal relative to a predetermined “threshold” position; b) the engine is in sequential injection phase; c) verifying a so-called “autonomous condition”, calculated on the basis of the engine speed and of an engine speed gradient compared to a predetermined threshold value. The invention is applicable to motor vehicles.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 31, 2006
    Publication date: December 25, 2008
    Applicant: PEUGEOT CITROEN AUTOMOBILES SA
    Inventor: Jean-Christophe Denis
  • Publication number: 20080309453
    Abstract: Provided are an apparatus and a method for starting automobile engine by a radio communication between an automobile smart key and a smart key electronic control unit (ECU). According to this invention, it is decided whether or not a transmission lever position signal and a break pedal signal are ON. The smart key ECU requests a smart key for a smart key ID when both signals are ON, and receives the smart key ID from the smart key. Then the smart key ECU performs the verification of the smart key using the received smart key ID and turns the starting control relay ON when the smart key is verified. Additionally, when the ignition switch is turned ON within the prescribed time after the starting control relay is turned ON, the smart key ECU supplies the electric power from the ignition switch to the starting motor, thus starting the automobile engine.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2008
    Publication date: December 18, 2008
    Inventors: MIN SEOK KIM, YOUNG TAK KIM, JAE PYUNG KO, JAE WOO YANG
  • Publication number: 20080167162
    Abstract: A vehicle shifter assembly is disclosed which is mounted in an interior of a vehicle in operable connection with a vehicle transmission for selecting a mode of the transmission. The shifter has a base member, an ignition button, and a cover. The base member is mounted to the vehicle interior and translatable relative to the vehicle interior. The ignition button is provided on a top surface of the base member and operably connected to an engine of the vehicle such that actuation of the ignition button starts the engine of the vehicle. The cover is pivotably connected to the top surface of the base member to generally cover the ignition button. The cover has a closed position and an opened position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 5, 2007
    Publication date: July 10, 2008
    Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLC
    Inventors: Kris Tomasson, Brian White
  • Patent number: 7381148
    Abstract: A system for ensuring the ability to start an internal combustion engine contained within a drive train of a vehicle includes, in addition to an actuation device, a torque transmission device contained in the drive train between the internal combustion engine and driven vehicle wheels, an enabling device that is operable by a person operating the vehicle and by means of which the operability of the starter is enabled for starting the internal combustion engine when the torque transmission between the internal combustion engine and the driven wheels of the vehicle is interrupted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2008
    Assignee: LuK Lamellen und Kupplungsbau Betelligungs KG
    Inventors: Behzad Nazari, Jens Martin, Matthias Ehrlich, Joachim Hirt, Frank Stengel, Martin Fuss, Alexander Schweizer, Martin Zimmermann
  • Patent number: 7374511
    Abstract: Methods and devices for actuating a parking brake in a gearbox which is actuated in an automated manner, whereby gear changes are carried out using at least one electrically driven actuator, gear positions can be selected by using a selector device, and the parking brake can be activated by using the selector device when the vehicle is stationary or moving slowly. A vehicle provided with an additional gearbox. An ignition key can only be removed, when the gearbox is in a P state and the additional gearbox is not in the N state. A further method and device, whereby the additional gearbox can only be shifted in the N state when the gearbox is not in the P state. Further methods and a device in which automated manual gearboxes, especially parallel gearboxes, are controlled in such a way that the vehicle can be safely parked.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Assignee: LuK Lamellan und Kupplungsbau Beteiligungs KG
    Inventors: Reinhard Berger, Alexander Schweizer, Dietmar Lang, Klaus Kuepper, Burkhard Pollak, Juergen Benz
  • Patent number: 7357105
    Abstract: A hydraulic valve driving device includes a valve actuator operable to drive an engine valve, a hydraulic pump that generates the oil pressure for the valve actuator, a hydraulic pump driving motor that drives the hydraulic pump, and a starter motor. At the time of engine starting, after the hydraulic pump is driven by the hydraulic pump driving motor while the crank is stopped in the first engine-starting mode, and then the crank and the hydraulic pump are driven by the starter motor in the second engine-starting mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2008
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yuji Moriwaki, Naoki Tsuchida
  • Publication number: 20080045381
    Abstract: A method of preventing unauthorized movement of a transmission shift mechanism comprises the steps of: detecting a predefined event; moving a locking device into an engaged position with a shift mechanism upon the occurrence of the predefined event to retain the shift mechanism in at least one of a park, reverse, neutral, and drive position; and maintaining an ignition system in a substantially off position during the detecting of the event and the moving of the locking device into the engaged position. A vehicle assembly is also provided comprising the transmission shift mechanism and the locking device coupled to the shift mechanism. The vehicle assembly also includes the ignition system, which is movable between off, accessory, run, and start positions, and a controller with the controller energizing the locking device in response to the predefined event to move the locking device into the locked position while the ignition system remains substantially in the off position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2007
    Publication date: February 21, 2008
    Inventors: Michael C. Vermeersch, Larry W. Burr
  • Publication number: 20080026907
    Abstract: A shift mechanism for a transmission in a vehicle includes a housing, a shift lever, a key cylinder and an actuator. The actuator operably connects to the key cylinder and is capable of movement between a first position that prevents the shift lever from changing shift positions, and a second position that allows the shift lever to change shift positions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 31, 2006
    Publication date: January 31, 2008
    Inventors: Gregory F. Fischer, Donald J. Stewart, Scott Munro, Robert L. Brown, David P. Jacobs
  • Patent number: 7270623
    Abstract: An automatic transmission shifter assembly comprises a shift lever support configured for attachment to a vehicle, a shift lever mounted to the shift lever support to shift between transmission gear settings; a brake transmission system interlock (BTSI) comprising a shift lever control member controllable by actuation of a solenoid or other powered actuator to selectively block the shift lever from moving out of the PARK position. An electronic ignition switch, an ignition actuator and an ignition key interlock are mounted to the shift lever support. The ignition key interlock comprises an interlock member controllable by the ignition actuator to selectively block the solenoid from moving the shift lever control member to the unblock position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Dura Glabal Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Yong Qiang Wang
  • Patent number: 7189186
    Abstract: A brake transmission shift interlock actuator includes a bobbin that has an open end and a closed end. A plunger is slidably disposed within the bobbin and a plunger rod extends from the plunger. Moreover, a primary plate is installed within the open end of the bobbin. The plunger is movable between an unlocked position, wherein the plunger rod does not extend through the primary plate and a locked position, wherein a first end of the plunger rod extends through a bore formed by the primary plate. Further, a magnetic force of attraction between the plunger and the primary plate diminishes as the plunger approaches the primary plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2007
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc
    Inventors: Alexis C. Weber, Alejandro Moreno
  • Patent number: 7156772
    Abstract: A switch device that improves reliability in starting an engine is provided. The switch device includes a push button, a magnetic sensor, and a power supply ECU. The push button is pressed by a driver to start the engine. The magnetic sensor detects that the push button has been pressed, in a non-contact manner. The power supply ECU is connected to the magnetic sensor and supplies power to the magnetic sensor to enable the magnetic sensor to detect that the push button has been pressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventors: Kiyokazu Ohtaki, Yukio Iwasaki, Tomoyuki Funayama, Koji Iwamoto
  • Patent number: 7115068
    Abstract: A regulating or control unit actuates a stop/start unit for an internal-combustion engine in a motor vehicle. At least one sensor is provided for detecting at least one parameter which is dependent on a steering wheel position of the motor vehicle. The regulating or control unit actuates the stop/start unit as a function of the detected parameter information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventors: Harald Braun, Henry Gmelin, Torsten Scholt
  • Patent number: 7104923
    Abstract: A start control apparatus includes a position sensor, a basic start determination processor, a sensor output determination processor, and a start permission continuation processor. The basic start determination processor determines whether a sensor output is in a permission region for permitting the start of operation of a motor when an engine start range is selected, and generates a start permission signal when the sensor output is in the permission region. The sensor output determination processor determines whether distinctive variation characteristics are detected in the sensor output when the motor is started based on the start permission signal and supply of electrical current to the motor. The start permission continuation processor permits continuation of operation of the motor when the variation characteristics are detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Aisin AW Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Mitsunori Nakane, Masayuki Tsugawa, Masayuki Sugiura, Muneo Kusafuka, Kenji Suzuki
  • Patent number: 7029420
    Abstract: A vehicle status change-over device is disclosed wherein an ignition switch 4 and a case 5 are fixed to a steering column cover, a case 5 supports a rotator 6 for rotational movement while fixing a shift position switch 8, a dial 9 is mounted to the case 5 for rotational movement about a center on substantially the line as a rotational center of the rotator 6, a shift lock solenoid 15 is mounted to an outer periphery of the case 5 at an area corresponding to a bore 14, and a lock pin 6 is provided to be moveable with the shift lock solenoid 15.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yutaka Sekino, Yoko Horiuchi
  • Patent number: 7031826
    Abstract: A remote start control system for a vehicle including an engine, a transmission connected to the engine and a data communications bus carrying transmission position data related to a selected transmission position, may include a remote start transmitter, a receiver at the vehicle for receiving signals from the remote start transmitter, and a vehicle remote start controller. The vehicle remote start controller may be connected to the data communications bus and to the receiver for starting the engine based upon the transmission position data carried by the data communications bus and signals from the remote start transmitter. Alternately, or additionally, the data communications bus may carry engine speed data, vehicle brake position data, or vehicle security data. Accordingly, the engine may be started responsive to the engine speed data, the vehicle brake position data, or the vehicle security data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Omega Patents, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Flick
  • Patent number: 6997850
    Abstract: A shifting device (1) is provided for transmitting shift commands to an automatic transmission of a motor vehicle, with a housing (2) and/or a frame, a selector lever (4), which transmits shift commands to the transmission of the motor vehicle and can be moved at least in an automatic gate and preferably also in a Tiptronic gate. The selector lever (4) can be fixed in a parking position P by an axially displaceable locking bar (5) that can be actuated manually, and with a locking device, which is coupled with the ignition lock and prevents the unlocking of the selector lever (4) from the parking position when the ignition key has been removed and the removal of the ignition key when the selector lever (4) is outside the parking position. The locking device is formed by a stopper (8), which is displaceable in the direction of the automatic gate and through which the selector lever (4) passes, and a locking lever (9), which acts on the stopper (8).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: ZF Lemförder Metallwaren AG
    Inventors: Andreas Giefer, Jörg Meyer, Dietmar Otto
  • Patent number: 6991582
    Abstract: In a locking device for a selector lever of a motor vehicle transmission comprising a locking member, which is pivotally supported on a support structure, and an adjustable locking element is supported on the support structure and engages the locking member for fixing the selector lever, a locking part is mounted resiliently on the locking member so as to bear against the support structure and to engage the selector lever, the locking part being movable by the selector lever between a first rest position to second position by application of a predetermined force by the selector lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2006
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventor: Armin Segeler