For Automotive Vehicles Patents (Class 70/237)
  • Patent number: 8279588
    Abstract: A housing of an electronic device encloses and supports at least one operational component and includes at least one opening sized to accommodate a mechanical input assembly. The mechanical input assembly includes a feature arranged to receive an input event, at least a portion of the feature exposed at an outside surface of the housing, an operational indicia visible on the exposed portion and having a preferred orientation with respect to the housing, the operational indicial providing an indication of how an operation of the operational component is influenced, and a shaft having a size and shape in accordance with the opening, the shaft attached to the external feature at a first end and an integrally formed self-capturing feature at the second end. The self-capturing feature is inserted into the opening until activated. The indicia is then properly aligned and the mechanical input assembly is locked to the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2012
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Felix Jose Alvarez Rivera, Wey-Jiun Lin, Emery Sanford
  • Patent number: 8256252
    Abstract: A steering lock device includes a lock member that is slidable between a lock position and an unlock position, and a slider that is disposed slidably in a direction perpendicular to a moving direction of the lock member. A sloped portion that is linearly sloped toward the steering shaft along a slide direction of the slider is provided on at least one of the lock member and the slider. The lock member is shifted between the lock position and the unlock position by the sloped portion in response to sliding of the slider. According to the steering lock device, downsizing can be brought due to its short height along a stroke direction of the lock member and cost reduction by commoditization of its main components can be achieved.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2012
    Assignee: Alpha Corporation
    Inventor: Takahiro Okada
  • Patent number: 8250889
    Abstract: A compact power lock is provided for use in a pickup truck tailgate with a key lockable latch that relies on a lock lever for its operation. The power lock includes a linear power actuator attached to a sliding actuating link with two tabs that engage the lock lever of the key lockable tailgate latch. The actuating link is arranged alongside the linear power actuator so as not to add to its length and to attain maximum compactness. The spacing of the two tabs is such that the lock lever can move freely between the locked and unlocked position when it is activated by the key lockable tailgate latch. When the actuator is energized by voltage pulses of alternating polarity its motion is transferred to the attached actuating link and the tabs push the locking lever to or fro to lock or unlock the tail gate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2012
    Assignee: Pop & Lock, LLC
    Inventor: Dimiter S. Zagoroff
  • Patent number: 8245549
    Abstract: A tamperproof power lock is provided for use in a pickup truck tailgate latch handle. The lock includes a power actuator, a rotating crank, a connecting rod and a lock bolt that locks the tailgate handle. The linear output motion of the actuator is transferred into rotation of the crank that is limited to rotate between two stops. An over center spring or friction keeps the crank or the lock bolt in either of the two stop positions. The rotation of the crank is transferred into linear motion of the locking bolt by the connecting rod. In the locked position the crank is up against one of the stops and the connecting rod past dead center. As a result the locking bolt cannot be pushed back forcibly in an attempt to defeat the lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Pop & Lock, LLC
    Inventor: Dimiter S. Zagoroff
  • Patent number: 8243137
    Abstract: A device that has the double function of opening a lock upon actuation of a handle, and as the need may arise, of capturing the exterior of the vehicle in an image via a camera. A hole is provided in the back wall of a support shell receiving the handle, and the housing of a module is mounted on the hole. The camera is supported in a pivoting and translatory manner in the module housing via a camera mount between a retracting position and an extending position. Furthermore, a drive and a gear are mounted on the module housing for a rotational-translatory displacement of the camera.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Huf Hulsbeck & Furst GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Heiko Schuetz
  • Patent number: 8240176
    Abstract: A steering lock device includes a pin protruded from a side surface of an arm of a slider, a guide groove disposed on a housing to accommodate the slider slidably, and a cover wall the pin when the slider positions at its lock end within the guide groove. According to the steering lock device, it can be made difficult to unlock a steering shaft through an improper act, and thereby superior antitheft performance can be brought.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Alpha Corporation
    Inventor: Takahiro Okada
  • Publication number: 20120174634
    Abstract: A closure system is provided, in particular for a motor vehicle, having a lock device, which is arranged in or on the outer side of a wall element, in particular of a motor vehicle, and which has an opening, into which an unlocking and/or locking device, which is implemented as corresponding to the opening in particular and is manual in particular, is insertable in an insertion direction, and having a cover device, which can be or is arranged on the lock device, so that it entirely covers the opening of the lock device at least in the insertion direction, and which is at least partially removable from the lock device to expose the opening for the unlocking and/or locking device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Publication date: July 12, 2012
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventor: Joerg GSCHWENG
  • Publication number: 20120090452
    Abstract: A ballistic panel provides protection from various munitions. The ballistic panel may be configured to conform to various contours and shapes. In this way, the ballistic panel may be used to create or replace traditional non-ballistic panels, such as those found in structures, vehicles, and device enclosures. The ballistic panel may comprise one or more layers of material including fiberglass, metal, mesh, ceramic, and natural and synthetic materials, among others. The ballistic panel may protect individuals, property, devices, and other assets from physical damage, electromagnetic radiation, and the like. The ballistic panel may be inexpensively constructed with low cost materials and manufacturing processes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 15, 2010
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventor: Ashok Em Sudhakar
  • Patent number: 8151610
    Abstract: An operation mechanism section has a key lever that follows operation of a key cylinder, a lock lever that can move to an unlock position where operation of an operation handle is enabled and to a lock position where it is disabled, linkage levers that, when the lock lever is at the unlock or lock position, follows operation of the operation handle to make a door openable or not openable, and a motor that can move the lock lever to the unlock or lock position. The lock lever is formed by integrating together a gear section, a key operation input section, and an operation transmission section. The gear section is supported so as to be pivotable about a pivot shaft to the unlock and lock positions and directly meshing with a worm gear installed on the rotating shaft of the motor. The key operation input section is directly connected to the key lever. The operation transmission section is directly connected to the linkage lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2012
    Assignee: Mitsui Kinzoku Act Corporation
    Inventor: Yoshihiko Fujihara
  • 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: 8117873
    Abstract: A gooseneck trailer lock is provided including a body having a coupler engaging portion and a trailer frame engaging portion. A lock secures the body to the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2012
    Inventor: Paul J. Bickel, III
  • Publication number: 20120036905
    Abstract: In one embodiment, the optical lock system may include an electronic control unit, a lock housing including a lock chamber, and an optical key including a multilayer photonic structure. The multilayer photonic structure may produce a unique intensity profile and includes a plurality of coating layers of high index dielectric material and a plurality of coating layers of low index dielectric. A light source may transmit a reference light to the multilayer photonic structure when the optical key is disposed within the lock chamber. A photo detector may receive an interaction light from the multilayer photonic structure and may transmit the unique intensity profile to the electronic control unit which may execute machine readable instructions to: compare the unique intensity profile to an electronic master; and cause the lock actuator to transition from a first state to a second state when the unique intensity profile corresponds to the electronic master.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2010
    Publication date: February 16, 2012
    Applicants: Toyota Motor Corporation, Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Benjamin Alan Grayson, Debasish Banerjee, Minjuan Zhang, Yasuo Uehara, Masahiko Ishii
  • Patent number: 8083249
    Abstract: The present invention provides a trailer coupler having an integrated locking device attached to the handle or the coupler body. The handle of the trailer coupler moves from a first position where the hitch ball is insertable to a second position where the hitch ball is prevented from insertion. The locking device having a locking pin that is insertable into the aperture of the handle to prevent movement of the handle from the second position to the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2011
    Assignee: Cequent Consumer Products
    Inventors: Toby Most, Francis Bernart
  • Publication number: 20110277519
    Abstract: An operation restricting device for an ignition switch includes a body including a turning restriction portion at a first position and a second portion, a rotor rotatably disposed in the body, a locking pin held movably in a turning plane of the rotor by the rotor, for restricting a first turn of the rotor from the second position to the first position, and a second turn of the rotor from the first position to the second position, the first turn and the second turn being opposite to each other, and a plate disposed movably or immovably in a movement plane of the locking pin, for permitting the first turn and the second turn of the rotor by switching an actuator. The turning restriction portion at the second position includes a turning lever to turn in the turning plane of the rotor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2011
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOKAI-RIKA-DENKI-SEISAKUSHO
    Inventor: Takahiro Hirashita
  • Patent number: 8047029
    Abstract: A tire locking assembly includes a first elongated member and a second elongated member. Each of the first and second elongated members has a top end and a bottom end. The first and second elongated members each have an aperture extending therethrough positioned adjacent to an associated one of the top ends. A locking rod has a first end and a second end. The locking rod is extendable through the apertures in the first and second elongated member. The locking rod is extendable through a rim of a tire. A lock removably engages the locking rod and the second elongated member to secure the locking rod to the second elongate member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Inventor: Trevor Henry
  • Publication number: 20110259061
    Abstract: The invention relates to a motor vehicle lock having the locking elements lock catch and pawl (1) and having a lock mechanism (2), it being possible for the lock mechanism (2) to be moved into different functional states such as “unlocked”, “locked”, “anti-theft locked” or “child-safety locked” and with said lock mechanism (2), for this purpose, having at least one functional element (3) which can be adjusted into corresponding functional positions. The invention proposes mounting the functional element (3) in a subregion, in particular an end region, of the functional element (3) by means of a bearing arrangement (3a) such that the rest of the functional element (3) can be adjusted both in the lateral direction and in the vertical direction, in each case substantially perpendicular to its longitudinal extent, in relation to a reference plane (R) in any case.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2009
    Publication date: October 27, 2011
    Applicant: BROSE SCHLIEßSYSTEME GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Simon Brose, Jürgen Zietlow
  • Publication number: 20110232340
    Abstract: A method of mounting a lock to a pick-up truck tailgate latching mechanism including the steps of locating targets for holes to be formed in a plastic bezel, the bezel carrying a handle for the tailgate, forming the holes in the plastic bezel, and securing the locking mechanism to the bezel via the formed holes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2011
    Publication date: September 29, 2011
    Inventor: Dimiter S. Zagoroff
  • Publication number: 20110179838
    Abstract: The invention relates to a remote control device with a stowable key, in particular for an automobile, which comprises a remote control casing including two lower (1) and upper (2) shells, an insert (3) defining a key-bit pivotally mounted between an extended use position and a stowed position inside the casing, and an elastic return mechanism for returning the insert to the extended position, which comprises a push button (4) provided on the upper shell (2). According to the invention, the insert (3) rotates directly about said button (4) which is rotatingly connected with the upper shell (2), and includes rotational indexing means with said insert (3) that can be declutched by pushing said button (4).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 28, 2009
    Publication date: July 28, 2011
    Applicant: VALEO SECURITE HABITACLE
    Inventor: Marc David
  • Publication number: 20110167882
    Abstract: A drive unit (1) comprising at least one electric drive motor (2) that moves a functional element (3), wherein the functional element (3) assumes, during its movement, a stop position (4) for switching off an electric drive motor (2), and at least one frictional element (6) cooperating with the functional element (3), wherein the frictional element (6) is disposed along a segment of a motion pathway (5) before the functional element (3) reaches the stop position (4). In addition, a motor vehicle lock (10) having a central locking mechanism (11) with such a drive unit (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 6, 2009
    Publication date: July 14, 2011
    Applicant: Kiekert AG
    Inventors: Ulrich Nass, Johannes-Theodor Menke, Frank Kunt, Lars Kretschmer, Philippe Mih
  • Publication number: 20110113837
    Abstract: The invention relates to a locking device (5, 6) comprising a first locking system (7) equipped with a control handle (12), intended to be actuated by an operator, characterized in that it includes a second locking system (8) connected to the first (7) by linking means (9) designed to actuate the second locking system (8) because of the actuation of the first (7), the first locking system (7) being actuated alternately between a locked state and an unlocked state by movement of the handle (12) over the totality of a defined course, the linking means (9) having sequencing means designed to actuate the second locking system (8), between a locked state and an unlocked state thereof respectively, during the displacement of the handle (12) over only part of the travel of the latter.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Applicant: AIRCELLE
    Inventors: Pascal-Marie Paul Marcel Soulier, Aurélie De Sorbay
  • Publication number: 20110107800
    Abstract: A latch system includes a latch and a key barrel operably coupled via a clutch to the latch. The clutch has an engaged condition where operation of the key barrel unlatches the latch, and the clutch has a disengaged condition where operation of the key barrel does not unlatch the latch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 24, 2010
    Publication date: May 12, 2011
    Inventors: Stephane Barbier, Dominique Benoit, Remi Castella
  • Publication number: 20110061429
    Abstract: A car burglar proof assembly with the functions of positioning and fixedness comprises an outer tube; the outer tube being installed with a core barrel; a telescopic inner tube; the inner tube can be telescopically inserted into the outer tube and being formed with a plurality of lock holes; a lock structure installed in the core barrel of the outer tube; the lock structure including a lock core, a buckle, a spring and a positioning unit; a lower side of the lock core being installed with the buckle; a lower side of the buckle being installed with the positioning unit which can be positioned into the lock hole of the inner tube; the spring being installed between the buckle and the positioning unit; and center of the positioning unit being formed with a penetrating hole for passing through a cylinder of the buckle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2009
    Publication date: March 17, 2011
    Inventor: Yu-Hsien Wu
  • Publication number: 20110041572
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of manufacturing locks for doors of a plurality of models of motor vehicles, each lock comprising a latch (1) which is rotatable about an axis (A) and which is associated with a pawl (2) rotatable about an axis (B), and also a mechanical and/or electrical transmission arrangement for carrying out an identical list of commands, the positioning of the fastening points (3, 4, 5) of these locks being identical, and the relative positioning of their “S point” (S1, S2) being different. According to the invention, said mechanical and/or electrical transmission arrangement of each of the locks is identical and only the assembly consisting of the latch and the associated pawl is different for each model of vehicles, in order to achieve said positioning of the “S point”.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2008
    Publication date: February 24, 2011
    Applicant: VALEO SECURITE HABITACLE
    Inventors: Jean-Marie Lefebvre, Francois Bernier, Laurent Duriez, Patrick Dupont
  • Publication number: 20110022422
    Abstract: A vehicle key system and method which reduces problems with key management, distribution, and collection. The system includes a computer for completing a vehicle rental transaction involving one of a plurality of different vehicles, for determining an encrypted code associated with a vehicle security system of the one vehicle, and for storing the encrypted code in a reusable programmable key to limit use of the key to operating the one vehicle during a rental period defined by the vehicle rental transaction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 23, 2009
    Publication date: January 27, 2011
    Inventor: Norman G. Taylor
  • Patent number: 7854153
    Abstract: A locking cylinder having a two-part housing, including an upper part and a lower part. A cylinder core is received in the housing and can be actuated by turning a key. The housing of the locking cylinder is fastened to the body of a vehicle by a fastener. The fastener used to fasten the housing of the locking cylinder on the body is also used as a connector for fastening the housing upper part on the housing lower part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Assignee: Huf Hulsbeck & Furst GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Ralf Lennhoff, Mensur Velicanin, Lars Gabriel, Stefan Mönig, Mario Christensen
  • Patent number: 7832789
    Abstract: A vehicle including an integrated vehicle door hinge and interior handle is disclosed. The integrated vehicle door hinge and interior handle may comprise a door hinge and an interior door release handle, with the door hinge having a hinge support flange pivotally coupled with a vehicle body, and an exposed hinge arm extending from the hinge support flange. The interior door release handle may include a pull handle configured for gripping by a vehicle occupant, and a handle pass through arm extending from the pull handle and connected to the exposed hinge arm, with the handle pass through arm mounted to the door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventors: Kelly G. Craigo, Wade W. Bryant, Therese A. Tant
  • Patent number: 7827836
    Abstract: A power-release door lock system for an automotive door having a latch, including a ratchet (18) and pawl (20), and an electro-mechanical exterior latch release mechanism (220) for actuating the pawl to release the ratchet. The system includes a controller (210) and a pressure sensitive switch (216) mounted to an outside door handle (214) of the automotive door and electrically connected to the controller. The controller is programmed to disable the pressure sensitive switch in response to a predetermined “lock” signal and enable the pressure sensitive switch in response to a pre-determined “unlock” signal, in which case the controller energizes the exterior latch release mechanism to release the ratchet in the event the pressure sensitive switch is actuated. The system eliminates the need for an exterior lock assembly and its attendant inside lock button or rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 9, 2010
    Assignee: Magna Closures Inc.
    Inventor: Roman Cetnar
  • Patent number: 7805966
    Abstract: A vehicle security system for securing a vehicle against theft. One system comprises a driving function disablement component having a first portion configured to substantially permanently affix to a moveable vehicle component, and a second component configured to removably attach to the first portion and disable the movable vehicle component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2010
    Assignee: Double O Tech (2009) Ltd.
    Inventor: Omri Oringer
  • Publication number: 20100236305
    Abstract: Motor vehicle lock (1) having a lock housing (2) with at least a locking mechanism (3) and actuating means (6), wherein at least one actuating means (6) extends through an opening (8) in the lock housing (2) and the opening (8) is provided with at least one reinforcing insert (9).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 4, 2008
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Applicant: KIEKERT AG
    Inventors: Andreas Beck, Kay-Olaf Loock, Kai Schrenke, Willi Kammerbauer
  • Publication number: 20100199729
    Abstract: An example key fob assembly includes a fob portion and a releasable portion releasably connected to the fob portion. A locking mechanism moves along a curved path between an engaged position and a disengaged position. The disengaged position permits separation of the fob portion from the releasable portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2007
    Publication date: August 12, 2010
    Inventors: Michael Joseph Zaitz, Jill Sara Logsdon
  • Publication number: 20100192646
    Abstract: A driving section and a regulating member are easily mounted to a subject of assembly. In an interlock unit, a solenoid, a shaft, a link, a release link, and a torsion spring are integrated together by means of a unit box. By the interlock unit being mounted to a lock body, the solenoid, the shaft, the link, the release link and the torsion spring can be mounted to the lock body. For this reason, it is not necessary that the solenoid, the shaft, the link, the release link and the torsion spring are separately mounted to the lock body, and the solenoid, the shaft, the link, the release link and the torsion spring can be easily mounted to the lock body.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 28, 2010
    Publication date: August 5, 2010
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOKAI-RIKA-DENKI-SEISAKUSHO
    Inventor: Yuji NAKAMOTO
  • Patent number: 7703310
    Abstract: In a door opening and closing device for a vehicle in which a cylinder body of a cylinder lock having a rotor turned in response to a key operation and a casing of a door-locking device which has a door-locking lever shaft turned in response to the turning of the rotor and is switched over between a locking state and an unlocking state in response to the turning of the door-locking lever shaft are mounted to a door, a turning movement-transmitting member having a flexibility is disposed between the cylinder lock and the door-locking device so as to transmit a turning force of the rotor to the door-locking lever shaft by its twisting motion responsive to the turning of the rotor. Thus, it is possible to increase the degree of freedom for the relative dispositions of the cylinder lock and the door-locking device, while eliminating the need for a protector for preventing the unauthorized access from the outside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignees: Kabushiki Kaisha Honda Lock, Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuuichi Usuzaki, Fumio Kobayashi, Naoki Katsumata, Nobuyuki Kishikawa, Hidetoshi Ijuin
  • Publication number: 20100071427
    Abstract: A key slot capable of accommodating an auxiliary key, which is a vehicle key other than a master key. A key lock mechanism locks or unlocks movement of the auxiliary key in the key slot, thereby allowing the auxiliary key to be taken out of the key slot in accordance with a lending condition of the auxiliary key. An invalid key return prevention unit permits the auxiliary key to be returned to the key slot in accordance with a return condition of the auxiliary key. If the return condition is met, the invalid key return prevention unit causes the key lock mechanism to lock the auxiliary key in the key slot. If the return condition is not met, the invalid key return prevention unit does not allow the auxiliary key to be returned to the key slot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Publication date: March 25, 2010
    Applicant: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventor: Hiroshi Tsuruta
  • Publication number: 20100052849
    Abstract: The invention relates to a switching device (1) for the keyless activation or deactivation of a consumer, especially an engine or the like in a vehicle, and/or for unlocking or locking a functionally essential component of a vehicle. Said device comprises at least one switching element (3), arranged inside a housing (2), which can be actuated by an actuation element (4), thereby generating at least one switching signal for the control unit (10). The aim of the invention is to provide a switching device which consists of only few components and which is incorporated into a keyless security system in a simple manner. For this purpose, an electrode (5) is provided on the housing (2) and is connected to the control unit (10). Said electrode (5) transmits data to a mobile ID transmitter (13) and the electrode (5) allows data being transmitted to a mobile ID transmitter (13) via a capacitative coupling (32, 34).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 16, 2007
    Publication date: March 4, 2010
    Applicant: HUF HULSBECK & FURST GMBH & CO. KG
    Inventors: Bernd Steegmann, Ulrich Muller
  • Publication number: 20100024193
    Abstract: A method of connecting a motor vehicle door lock (3) to a vehicle door (8), in which the motor vehicle door lock (3) comprises a carrier plate (4) whereon the locking pieces (2, 21, 22) are mounted, and a lock housing (32) which at least partially surrounds the locking pieces (2, 21, 22) comprising the carrier plate (4), comprising a counter piece (34) formed from the side (36) of the lock housing (32), which is opposite to the carrier plate (4), the counter piece (34) being provided in such a way that it co-operates with a connection element (7) in the vehicle door (8) by means of a through opening (43) in the carrier plate (4).
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2009
    Publication date: February 4, 2010
    Applicant: KIEKERT AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventor: Dirk Hanisch
  • Publication number: 20100000271
    Abstract: The invention relates to a latch that comprises a lock and a closing part (10). Said lock comprises a catch (15), a click (20) equipped with an adjusting arm (21) and a motorised opening aid (30). Said catch (15) comprises a receiving element for the closing part (10) and at least one stop notch (17) for engaging the click (20). The opening aid (30) is equipped with an eccentric (40) that is driven by a motor, whereby the eccentric curve interacts with a lateral adjusting surface of the adjusting arm (21) and ensures that the clink (20) is displaced in a motorised manner from its locked position in the stop notch (17) into an elevated position. In order to prevent problems in the latch, an end segment (42) of the eccentric (40) and/or the adjusting arm (21) of the clink (20) is elastic.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2007
    Publication date: January 7, 2010
    Inventors: Jorg Berghahn, Dirk Ruppach, Hans-Günter Kaiser, Rolf Kamps, Jürgen Moczygemba, Eckart Schuler
  • Patent number: 7642669
    Abstract: An electrical circuit arrangement includes an unlatching actuator, a primary power source and a secondary power source. The electrical circuit arrangement further includes an operator actuated switch and an electrically controlled bypass switch having an energized condition at which the bypass switch adopts a first switching configuration and a de-energized condition at which the bypass switch adopts a second switching configuration. The circuit has a first configuration in which the bypass switch is in the first switching configuration so that the primary power source, the operator actuated switch, the bypass switch and the unlatching actuator are configured so that actuation of the operator actuated switch causes the unlatching actuator to be energized by the primary power source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Assignee: Meritor Technology, Inc.
    Inventor: Nigel Spurr
  • Publication number: 20090320535
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for making a rotating lock (10) for the locking system of an automotive vehicle, that comprises at least first and second complementary parts (5, 6) that can be assembled in at least one overlap area (7) for defining a stator (12) inside which a rotor (11) can be rotated, characterised in that it comprises the following steps: a first step for assembling the two parts (5, 6) in order to position in said overlap area (7) at least one opening (32) formed in the first part of the stator (6) opposite the opening of a corresponding cavity (34) formed in the second part of the stator (5); a second crimping step during which a crimping punch (22) is introduced in each opening (32) for at least partially deforming the wall of the opening (32) in the direction of the corresponding cavity (34) in order to crimp the assembly of the two parts of the stator (5, 6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 4, 2008
    Publication date: December 31, 2009
    Applicant: VALEO SECURITE HABITACLE
    Inventor: Bernard Planteline
  • Publication number: 20090314045
    Abstract: A self-disengaging lock for a motor vehicle lock mechanism, including a fixed stator and a rotor which is rotatably mounted in the stator and which comprises pins which are radially mobile under the action of a key intended to be axially introduced into the rotor, where the rotor is coupled to a control device of the lock, in an angular alignment in the manner of a cardan joint, when the key is correct, and the rotor is decoupled from the control device in the disengaged position, where the rotor is coupled to the control device directly, the end of the control device having a coupling arrangement held by the stator and the end of the rotor having another complementary coupling arrangement, where the coupling of the rotor and the control device enables the angular displacement of the control device in order to ensure the angular alignment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 21, 2006
    Publication date: December 24, 2009
    Applicant: VALEO SECURITE HABITACLE
    Inventors: Fabrice Giacomin, Louis Canard
  • Patent number: 7628046
    Abstract: A steering wheel lock has a hollow locking shaft with two hooks, a locking base slidably mounted on a middle section of the locking shaft and having a bar corresponding to the two hooks, a retractable rod engaged the locking rod and having a positioning device at one end and a loop lock at the other end, and an interior shaft received inside the retractable rod and having an abutting head at one end and a clamping device at the other end. Thereby, the positioning device is secured by the clamping device on the interior shaft in a normal condition so that the retractable rod is temporarily held. Moreover, the loop lock and the hooks on the locking rod respectively and detachably mount on two opposite sides of the steering wheel to provide excellent burglarproof efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 8, 2009
    Inventor: Wen-Chyun Su
  • Publication number: 20090278698
    Abstract: The object of the invention is to provide a vehicle key capable of preventing the drunken driving. The vehicle key comprises a key portion with the forward end portion thereof insertable into the key hole of the vehicle such as a train, a motor bike and an automobile, a holder portion arranged at the base end portion of the key portion, a projection member projected from the holder portion along the key portion, a spring for urging the projection member in the direction of projection, a breath component detection means for detecting the alcohol contained in the breath of the user, and a lock mechanism for locking the projection member in a projected state in accordance with the detection result of the breath component detection means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 11, 2009
    Publication date: November 12, 2009
    Inventor: Hiroshi Kamiki
  • Patent number: 7614267
    Abstract: A control pedal disabling device includes a housing having a side opening or notch for receiving a pedal assembly component. The opening has a forward surface for bearing against the underside of a pedal assembly component. A rod is slidably mounted to the housing. The rod is movable across the opening to trap the pedal assembly component in the opening. The rod is also movable forwardly from the housing to bear against a vehicle floor, thereby preventing movement of the pedal assembly component toward the vehicle floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Inventor: David Simon
  • Publication number: 20090272156
    Abstract: A locking system for locking a stopper incorporated into the top of a fuel tank filler pipe, the stopper allowing the pipe to be opened automatically via action of a fuel dispensing nozzle. The stopper is retractable under action of a thrust directed against the stopper along an axis parallel to the axis of the top of the pipe, and is secured to a return spring that keeps the stopper in the closed position. The system includes a rotary ring configured to prevent movement of the stopper via a bayonet system, and rotary movement of which is brought about using a key.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 15, 2005
    Publication date: November 5, 2009
    Applicant: INERGY AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS RESEARCH (SOCIETE ANONYME)
    Inventor: Maurice Journee
  • Publication number: 20090249844
    Abstract: A lock is provided for a vehicle. The lock system comprises a linear actuator, a deadbolt lock for the vehicle and a flexible Bowden cable connecting the linear actuator to the deadbolt lock, wherein the flexible Bowden cable is the sole connection between the linear actuator and deadbolt lock.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 8, 2008
    Publication date: October 8, 2009
    Inventor: James Kinnucan
  • Patent number: 7598753
    Abstract: A human body detecting device for a vehicle includes a sensor electrode provided in a door handle arranged on outside of a vehicle door, the sensor electrode changing the electrostatic capacitance in response to an approach of human body and a determining circuit for judging whether a human body approaches or not based on the change of the electrostatic capacitance of the sensor electrode. The human body detecting device further includes an auxiliary electrode coupled capacitance-wise with the sensor electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 6, 2009
    Assignees: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha, Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Kiyokazu Ieda, Takeshi Ito, Takamasa Fujitsuna, Noriyasu Onishi, Teruya Tomiyasu
  • Publication number: 20090223263
    Abstract: A dual-member locking mechanism for a vehicle door handle assembly activated by an inertial force acting on the locking mechanism, comprising a first lever having a first axis of rotation; and a second lever having a second axis of rotation; wherein the first lever is engageable with the door handle assembly; the second lever comprises a weight member and a finger member; the finger member is engageable with the first lever; and the second lever is rotatable around the second axis of rotation in response to the inertial force.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2009
    Publication date: September 10, 2009
    Applicant: KIEKERT AG
    Inventors: Livianu Dorin Puscas, Karl Lambertz, Vlad Negrut
  • Publication number: 20090205380
    Abstract: A personal property securement device mountable to a vehicle may comprise a cable housing with a safety port that defines a passage extending from internal to external the housing. A cable may be threaded through the passage with one end fixed to a cable retention knob external the housing and the other end fixed to a reel that may be disposed for rotation within the housing. A power spring may present a torque on the reel to enable retrievable winding and tensioned unwinding of the cable. The property securement device may further comprise a ratchet mechanism in cooperation with the reel to release tensioning of the cable at given incremental extractions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 27, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Inventor: Dale Anton Tollefson
  • Publication number: 20090205383
    Abstract: A vehicle door handle device, includes a cylinder lock for locking and unlocking a locking mechanism of an opening/closing panel, and a pair of pivot members pivotally attached to the opening/closing panel. One pivot member of the pair of pivot members is formed of a shutter capable of opening and closing a key insert hole of the cylinder lock, and another pivot member of the pair of pivot members has a pivotal force transmitting portion for transmitting a pivotal force in a direction to open the key insert hole to the one pivot member and is formed of an operating handle for opening and closing the opening/closing panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Publication date: August 20, 2009
    Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOKAI RIKA DENKI SEISAKUSHO
    Inventors: Toshiharu KATAGIRI, Yoshiyuki SEKI
  • Publication number: 20090183540
    Abstract: A tailboard lock includes a main body having one side bored with two insert holes and a lateral hole crossing with the insert holes, a lock core received in the main body and having one end combined with interacting engage members, a positioning casing provided with a cover with a slide lid, a shackle having two rods connected by a curved member and having their inner surface cut with plural fitting notches, and a protective cover covered around the positioning casing and the cover. In using, the shackle is fitted around the pivot of a pickup-truck tailboard, and after the tailboard is pivotally assembled on the truck body, the two rods are inserted in the insert holes of the main body. Then, the lock core is turned to have the interacting engage members extended to fitting in one of the fitting notches of the lock rods, thus firmly locking the tailboard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2008
    Publication date: July 23, 2009
    Inventor: Chien-Chih LU
  • Patent number: 7552606
    Abstract: A vehicle includes a coupling assembly for connecting first and second sections of a brake supply line, the coupling assembly comprising complementary first and second couplings which fit together. A safety device is complementary to one coupling and which can be fitted to the coupling so that it cannot be connected to the other coupling. The safety device includes a locking device which is operable to prevent removal of the safety device from the coupling; the locking device prevents removal of a key until the locking device is operated. The key removed from the locking device can be used to enable use of a loading bay.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 30, 2009
    Assignee: Castell Safety International Limited
    Inventor: Michael Drummond