For Automotive Vehicles Patents (Class 70/237)
  • Patent number: 6040638
    Abstract: A vehicle immobilization system has an electronically controlled locking mechanism which requires interconnection with an electrical supply for it to be switched between a locked state and an unlocked state. The locking mechanism remains in the state to which it is switched when disconnected from the electrical supply. The immobilization system includes control means which operates to connect the locking mechanism to the electrical supply to switch it from one state to the other, and to disconnect the locking mechanism from the electrical supply when the vehicle engine is running or the vehicle is moving. The immobilization system also includes means to prevent cranking of the engine when the locking mechanism is in it's locked state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2000
    Assignee: Jaguar Cars, Limited, Whitley, Coventry
    Inventor: Steven Christopher Howell
  • Patent number: 6032497
    Abstract: A vehicle immobilizing device adapted for removable interconnection to a vehicle wheel assembly for temporarily immobilizing the vehicle. The vehicle immobilizing device utilizes an outer arm, an inner arm, an engagement dome, a self-positioning tire stop, and a securing mechanism which in combination provides engagement to the vehicle wheel assembly to prevent unauthorized removal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: MITI Manufacturing Co., Inc.
    Inventors: Robert A. Fulcher, Allan E. Beavers
  • Patent number: 6007117
    Abstract: A motor vehicle door lock or the like for a door or hatch of a motor vehicle which can be closed from the outside, preferably via a closing cylinder, with a lock mechanism which, among other elements, has an actuating lever (1), a force application element (4) which moves actuating lever (1), and an intermediate element (5) which is moved away from the closing cylinder or the like, the force application element (4) and intermediate element (5) being made as gear wheels with gear rims (6, 7) which are transmission-coupled to one another. A trip-free mechanism is easily integrated by the gear rim of one of the gear wheels having a gap (8) and thus the intermediate element (5) is able to continue to be turned in idle when this gap (8) is reached without the force application element (4) itself continuing to turn along with it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Joerg Spindler
  • Patent number: 6000255
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for all-terrain vehicles comprising a hollow frame upon which the front or rear wheels of a vehicle rest, said frame being secured to a stable surface, locking structure substantially embedded within the frame, two slidable members engaged with the locking structure, and two wheel engaging end members affixed to the exposed end of said slidable members, which wheel engaging end members press against the wheel hubs of a vehicle thereby prohibiting removal of the vehicle from the stable surface when the locking structure is engaged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 14, 1999
    Inventor: Terry Lee Lester
  • Patent number: 5996382
    Abstract: An automotive lock mechanism is disclosed having a housing with a cylindrical bore, a key cylinder rotatably received within the housing cylindrical bore, a flexible cable having first and second ends, the first end rotatably engaging the key cylinder, and a rotatable release cam receiving the second end in a rotatable, detachable relationship, the release cam adapted to operatively engage a latch mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: David Bruce Lehmkuhl
  • Patent number: 5996381
    Abstract: An automotive door lock device comprises an open lever pivotal between a door latch position and a door unlatch position. The open lever has an engaging lug. A lock/unlock lever is pivotal between lock and unlock positions. A release lever is pivotal between first and second positions. A first sub-lever has one end pivotally connected to the release lever and the other end pivotally connected to the lock/unlock lever. A second sub-lever has one end pivotally connected to the first sub-lever and the other end formed with an actuating arm. The actuating arm is engageable with the engaging lug of the open lever. A spring is used for biasing the second sub-lever toward the first sub-lever.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Ohi Seisakusho Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Hajime Yoneyama
  • Patent number: 5983685
    Abstract: An antitheft motor-vehicle anchor (1, 28, 35) is affixed immovably to a surface position (30) proximate a parking place and has a break-resistant connecter(7, 9, 10, 31, 33, 36, 37) that is lockable to a wheel (14), frame and/or axle of a motor vehicle or vehicular unit to prevent its theft by being carried, towed or pushed away. The break-resistant connector can be retractable or otherwise raised to and lowered from or optionally fixed in a locking or clamping position. Either a fixed or a retractably raised and lowered embodiment can be used as a locking motorcycle stand. A raised and lowered or otherwise retractable embodiment is flush with a surface of a parking place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 16, 1999
    Inventor: David Garnsworthy
  • Patent number: 5977655
    Abstract: A lock actuator assembly for a steering lock and ignition assembly has a two position knob for operating an ignition switch of a vehicle and for operating a steering lock mechanism of the vehicle. The knob is retained within a housing by a latch device until authorization by an authorization system is provided to the latch device. When authorization is received, the latch device releases the knob from the housing so that the steering lock mechanism can unlock the steering shaft and the ignition switch can be operated to start the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 2, 1999
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Hidehiko Anzai
  • Patent number: 5950464
    Abstract: A shift lever locking mechanism is provided including a shift lever having a vertical post slidably situated along a single linear slot formed in a surface of a vehicle to effect various modes of operation including: drive, second gear, and first gear. Also included is an engagement arm pivotally coupled to the surface. A quick release mechanism serves to releasably couple the engagement arm to the shift lever for precluding the transfer of the shift lever from the drive mode of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Inventor: Harry E. Tonne
  • Patent number: 5950463
    Abstract: A vehicle highly visible, convenient locking apparatus which locks all four wheels of a vehicle to prevent it from being driven or towed is disclosed. The apparatus which holds a brake pedal having a leg, close to a floor of a vehicle comprises: a mountable base having a lower side portion and an opposite side portion; and, a longitudinal member having a bottom end portion adapted to releasably engage in the opposite side portion of the base; a peddle holding/lock member carried by the longitudinal member. In use the base is mounted on the floor of the vehicle, beneath the brake pedal; the longitudinal member is releasably engaged in the base; the peddle is depressed, engaging the brakes; and the peddle holding/lock member is locked on the longitudinal member thereby holding the brake pedal in an engaged position and generally preventing the longitudinal member from turning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Inventors: James Glazier, Ken Toole
  • Patent number: 5949206
    Abstract: A multi-functional apparatus employs an intermittent motion mechanism. An electromagnetic device selectively causes movement of the intermittent motion mechanism thereby moving a mechanical device coupled thereto. In another aspect of the present invention, a single electric motor selectively actuates two or three intermittent rotary motion mechanisms thereby causing separate mechanical devices coupled thereto to operate within an automotive vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: UT Automotive Dearborn, Inc.
    Inventors: Raghu Oruganty, Daniel D. Kilker, William Carl Zimmer, James Wayne Gibson
  • Patent number: 5934118
    Abstract: A security device for preventing rotation of a wheel on a vehicle, such as a trailer. The security device includes a base member attachable to the vehicle wheel and a cover member for positioning over the base member wherein the cover member supports a bar extending beyond the radius of the vehicle wheel. The base member and cover member are formed having a cooperating non-circular shape whereby the cover member is prevented from rotating relative to the base member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Inventor: Douglas L. Henness
  • Patent number: 5921120
    Abstract: A steering lock assembly includes a main body having a recess for receiving a portion of a rim of a steering wheel, a hook device pivotally mounted in the main body and including a hook member for releasably enclosing the recess of the main body to securely hold the portion of the rim of the steering wheel, an air bag protective plate securely attached to the hook means to rotate therewith, and pawls for releasably engaging with ratchet wheels respectively mounted on the hook device and the air bag protective plate. The pawls are biased to engage with the ratchet wheels such that the air bag protective plate is only rotatable in a direction toward the air bag and that the hook member is only rotatable toward the recess of the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Inventor: Wen Chang Wu
  • Patent number: 5920254
    Abstract: A steering wheel lock includes a lock body with a stop bar at one side, a locating device fixedly fastened to the lock body, the locating device having two vertical barrels at two opposite sides and a U-shaped retainer plate at the top, a U-shaped shackle, and a vibration-initiated alarm signal mounted inside the lock body, wherein the U-shaped retainer plate of the locating device is hooked on the periphery of the steering wheel of a car, permitting the stop bar of the lock body to be stopped at a part inside the car, and the U-shaped shackle is inserted through the barrels of the locating device into lock holes on the lock body and locked by the lock body to secure the locating device and the lock body in place and to stop the steering wheel from rotation; a radio transmitter circuit is connected to the vibration-initiated alarm circuit, the radio transmitter circuit being triggered to transmit a radio alarm signal into the air when the vibration-initiated alarm circuit is induced to alarm; a radio receiver
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Inventor: Chen-Kuei Hsieh
  • Patent number: 5920158
    Abstract: A multi-functional automotive vehicle apparatus comprising: a rotatable member; an electromagnetic device operable to selectively rotate said rotatable member; a first motion transmitting member selectively moved in response to rotation of said rotatable member; and a second motion transmitting member selectively moved in response to rotation of said rotatable member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Inventors: Robin Mihekun Miller, Daniel D. Kilker, Monte L. Falcoff, H. Winston Maue, Eric J. Krupp, William C. Zimmer, James W. Gibson
  • Patent number: 5911391
    Abstract: A locking apparatus in combination with a locking pin and method for rigidly interlocking a control wheel and the rudder pedals of an aircraft is provided for securing the control surfaces of the aircraft operated by the control wheel and the rudder pedals in a stable position. The locking pin is adapted to be disposed through aligned locking pin receiving holes of the control column and the control panel collar and has a recess formed therein for lockingly receiving a portion of the control column. The locking apparatus includes a pair of control wheel retaining members rigidly connected to one end of a rod member for retainingly engaging the control wheel and a rudder pedal engaging bar rigidly connected to one end of another rod member. The rudder pedal engaging bar is positionable in a V-shaped notch of each of the rudder pedals so as to engage each of the rudder pedals and so as to secure the rudder pedal engaging bar on the rudder pedals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Inventors: Richard T. Russ, Thomas C. Williams
  • Patent number: 5911765
    Abstract: A vehicular control pedal disabling device having a base member, a generally U-shaped member extending upwardly from the base member, a structural housing through which the U-shaped member slides, and a means to lock the device. A means for producing light can be attached to the device to make it more noticeable to those outside of the vehicle. In the device's operable position, the U-shaped member and the structural housing surround the stem of the control pedal and prevent the pedal's actuation when the device is locked. In one embodiment the structural housing includes a support sleeve, a pedal restricting member, a first guide sleeve, a second guide sleeve and a connecting member. The first guide sleeve is connected to the support sleeve through the pedal restricting member and the first guide sleeve is parallel with the support sleeve. The second guide sleeve is axially aligned with the first guide sleeve so that the U-shaped member can slide through both the first and second guide sleeves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Assignee: Scott D. Jacobson
    Inventor: Elias DaSilva
  • Patent number: 5907885
    Abstract: A multi-functional apparatus for use in an automotive vehicle employing multiple tracks has a housing, a rotatable member located in the housing, an electromagnetic device and multiple tracks. The electromagnetic device may be an electric motor which operates in a unidirectional manner to oscillate a window wiper assembly. The electric motor and rotatable member then reverse rotational direction to move the wiper assembly to a park position, allowing the actuation of an intermittent motion mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 1, 1999
    Assignee: UT Automotive Dearborn, Inc.
    Inventors: Christopher R. Tilli, Harry F. Dutka
  • Patent number: 5905314
    Abstract: An auxiliary switching system for vehicles having power door lock systems. The system is for use primarily when drivers lock their keys in the vehicles. The system is electronically simple, and includes a magnetically actuated switch which is mounted in a secret, exteriorly accessible location on the vehicle. A switching module is slaved to the magnetically actuated switch and is integrated into the vehicles door lock system actuation circuit. A simple magnet trips the magnetically actuated switch which, in turn, actuates the switching module which, in turn, unlocks the vehicle's door locks. Between uses, the magnet is concealed at some place on the vehicle's exterior, such as on an inside surface of a bumper, or decorative, metallic vent.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 18, 1999
    Inventor: Duane Roundtree
  • Patent number: 5899101
    Abstract: A security device (10) for security a frame or chassis of a caravan or other wheeled vehicle to the ground comprises an elongate securing arm (12) extending substantially transversely of the chassis between two frame members (4) thereof, and an elongate support member (14) extending downwardly into the ground. The support member (14) and the securing arm (12) are made in one piece and the free end of the support member (14) is engaged in the ground. The engagement of the support member (14) is such that withdrawal thereof from the ground requires rotation of the support member (14). At each of its ends, the securing arm (12) carries engagement members (32,34) to engage with, and be locked to, the frame members (4). Although the security device is simple to manufacture and install, it provides a high degree of security.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 4, 1999
    Inventor: John T. West
  • Patent number: 5896767
    Abstract: An automotive door latch device comprises a latch body having a horizontal passage into which a striker enters, a latch rotatably mounted to the latch body by a latch shaft, a ratchet rotatably mounted to the latch body by a ratchet shaft, a lock lever switched between an unlocked position and a locked position, a block lever rotatably mounted to the latch body by a block shaft and engaging with the lock lever when the latch is in an unlatched position to prevent the lock lever from moving from the unlocked position to the locked position. The latch and the ratchet is substantially arranged along a vertical direction. A straight line connecting the ratchet shaft and the block shaft is substantially in parallel to the horizontal passage of the latch body. The block lever is connected to the ratchet lever by a connection pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 27, 1999
    Assignee: Mitsui Kinzoku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Yoshito Gomi
  • Patent number: 5887462
    Abstract: A force multiplier is employed to embed a compression element or elements of a vehicular chock assembly in one or both sidewalls of a tire to effect a positive interlock therewith. The force multiplier is then locked to the chock assembly to maintain the interlock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Inventor: Wayne B. Stone
  • Patent number: 5881587
    Abstract: A device for locking the brake of a vehicle and preventing its theft comprising: a base member for a placement on the floorboard of a vehicle beneath a brake pedal; a U-shaped housing extending downward and having a first arm attached to the base and having a second shorter arm defining a gap for receipt of a brake pedal shaft, said space between the first and second arms defining a slot for receiving the brake pedal shaft and permitting its full extension upward through said shaft; and locking means associated with the second arm for locking the underside of the pedal within the slot such that the brake pedal cannot be depressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Assignee: Lawman Armor Corp.
    Inventor: Robert A. Vito
  • Patent number: 5870912
    Abstract: A device for locking the brake of a vehicle and preventing its theft comprising: a base member for a placement on the floorboard of a vehicle beneath a brake pedal; a U-shaped housing extending downward and having a first arm attached to the base and having a second shorter arm defining a gap for receipt of a brake pedal shaft, said space between the first and second arms defining a slot for receiving the brake pedal shaft and permitting its full extension upward through said shaft; and locking means associated with the second arm for locking the underside of the pedal within the slot such that the brake pedal cannot be depressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 16, 1999
    Assignee: Lawman Armor Corporation
    Inventor: Robert A. Vito
  • Patent number: 5865044
    Abstract: A motor vehicle steering wheel lock for mounting diametrically across the rim of the steering wheel and having an extended portion adapted to block complete rotation of the steering wheel has locking means which simplify and reduce the number of manual manipulations required to mount and remove the steering wheel lock. A locking means is provided to permit only axial extension of the elongated steering wheel lock when in the locked condition, and to permit axial contraction of the elongated steering wheel lock only when in the unlocked condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Assignee: Winner International Royalty Corporation
    Inventor: Jinn Fu Wu
  • Patent number: 5852943
    Abstract: A rotatable cam of the present invention has an internal edge completely surrounding an elongated slot, a portion of which serves as a camming surface for interfacing with a cam follower. A further aspect of the present invention employs a door lock control member linearly slidable from a locked position to an unlocked position while also being pivotable between a nominal latching position and an unlatching position. In yet another aspect of the present invention, one end of the door lock control member is coupled to a liftgate door latch and the other end is coupled to a multi-functional electric motor by way of a drive transmission and a cable. In still a further aspect of the present invention, a window wiper assembly is drivably coupled to the drive transmission. A method of unlatching an automotive vehicle door is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 29, 1998
    Assignee: UT Automotive Dearborn, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry F. Dutka, Ronald L. Merckling
  • Patent number: 5845521
    Abstract: An antitheft article for a motor vehicle has two parts which are pivotable relative to one another between an open position and a closed position. Each of the parts resembles a box having an open side, and the open sides of the box-like parts face each other. A padlock is fixed to one of the box-like parts, and a tubular element for receiving the shackle of the padlock is fixed to the other of the box-like parts. One of the box-like parts is further provided with a pedestal. In operation, the box-like parts are opened and placed around the tread of the brake pedal with the pedestal facing the floorboard of the vehicle. The box-like parts are closed and, in the process, the shackle of the padlock passes through the tubular element. The padlock is locked thereby fixing the box-like parts with respect to one another. Cutouts are formed in the box-like parts for the lever supporting the tread of the brake pedal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Inventor: Benito A. Najera
  • Patent number: 5842359
    Abstract: An anti-theft door lock for vehicles includes a base plate for straddling the vehicle door and the door frame when the vehicle door is closed, a cover plate for securement over the base plate, a slender locking cable for fitting between the vehicle door and the door frame and including a loop for reception over the striker which holds the vehicle door closed, a portion of the locking cable being captured between the base plate and the cover plate when the cover plate is closed over the base plate, with the locking cable securing the base plate to the vehicle, and a lock for locking the cover plate in place over the base plate and precluding unauthorized access to the captured portion of the locking cable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Inventor: Christopher F. Longueira
  • Patent number: 5842360
    Abstract: A security device for a motor vehicle comprising a cover adapted to be fitted over a portion of the steering wheel of the vehicle including at least one spoke and a portion of the steering wheel rim so as to render the cover irremovable by cutting any combination of the uncovered portions of the steering wheel, a locking mechanism cooperating with the cover and an extension from the cover to foul a driver's ability to operate the steering wheel. The locking mechanism further comprises a locking pin or pins and/or a lid to prevent rotation of the device relative to the steering wheel together with an extension from the cover to inhibit a driver from using the steering wheel when the security device is mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Inventor: Alan David Somerfield
  • Patent number: 5842364
    Abstract: A vehicle immobilizing system for engaging a brake pedal of a vehicle and locking the brakes of the vehicle in an activated position, but which does not interfere with the operation of the vehicle's brakes when the vehicle is being operated. The vehicle immobilizing system includes a standard vehicle brake pedal assembly, a retractable locking shaft, a solenoid, for extending and retracting the retractable locking shaft, a locking tumbler to prevent the retractable locking shaft from being physically forced open to deactivate the vehicle's brakes, and an activation switch for the immobilizing system. The retractable locking shaft is attached to the sidewall of a standard vehicle brake pedal assembly so as to prevent the upward movement of the brake pedal arm when the vehicle's immobilizing system is activated. Once the vehicle immobilizing system is activated all four (4) brakes of the vehicle will be locked and function as an anti-theft device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Inventor: Richard D. Oliver
  • Patent number: 5836185
    Abstract: Two parts telescope so as to selectively engage the steering wheel at a portion of its rim. A third part independently telescopes relative to the first two parts so as to span a remaining portion of the diameter of the steering wheel, and so as engage the rim of the wheel at a point opposite to the portion where are located the first and second parts. One single key lock suffices to lock all telescoping parts in position, selectively engaging or releasing the device from the steering wheel at two points. The impediment presented by the locked device to turning the steering wheel is not subject to being defeated merely by cutting through either the steering wheel, or the device itself, at any single location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Inventor: Renato M. Openiano
  • Patent number: 5829285
    Abstract: Apparatus and method for obtaining same-day payment of parking violation fines imposed by a municipality or other governmental body, having a tire clamp with a combination lock, to be applied to a tire of the violator's vehicle, and a notice to the vehicle owner, which informs the owner of a phone number to call, to pay the fine by credit card and obtain the combination to the lock, allowing the owner to release the vehicle, after which the vehicle owner clamps the tire clamp around a parking meter or sign post, for later retrieval by police.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Inventor: Thomas Edward Wilson
  • Patent number: 5826448
    Abstract: An air bag and steering lock device including a housing. The housing has a top half and a bottom half that allows the housing to be positioned around a column of a steering wheel for replacing the covering of the column. A J-bar member is provided. The J-bar has a back bar with a pair of lateral extents projecting in a forward direction. One of the lateral extents has an interior side with a plurality of catch slots adjacent an end. Lastly, a locking means is fixedly attached to the top surface of the top half of the housing. The locking means is capable of receiving the one lateral extent of the J-bar for locking the J-bar over the steering wheel to limit the steering wheel's movement and disassembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Graham
  • Patent number: 5816082
    Abstract: An anti-theft device (18) mounted to a wheel (90) or the like. Device (18) includes a shield (20) that mounts on top of a wheel (90), with adjustable links (63, 64) at one end (27) of device (18) thrust through voids (91) separating spokes (92) of the wheel (90), and with swingable elbow members (55, 56) at the other end (38) of device (16) thrust through steering wheel voids (91). Legs (58) on the elbow members (55, 56) swing into clasping or yoke members (70), after which a locking bar assembly (80) mounts to the yoke members (70) and by which the device (18) is placed in a locked mode on the wheel (90). The elbow members (55, 56) include arms (57) which, along with the links (63, 64), are adjustable to provide change in depth to the device (18). The shield (20) includes a pair of panels (21, 22) that are slidably engageable with each other, with a fastener (28) and holes (23) in one of the panels that fixes the two together in one of a number of different lengths for the device (18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Mher Gabrielyan
  • Patent number: 5806354
    Abstract: A theft deterrent arrangement for a passenger side air bag assembly includes hollow bolt shield cylinders surrounding mounting bolts holding the air bag assembly to a fixed cross member, a locking cylinder locked in place to prevent access to the bolt head. Removal of the locking cylinder with a key allows removal of the bolts and air bag by use of a socket wrench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventor: Dean C. Hasnik
  • Patent number: 5802887
    Abstract: A snowmobile ski lock used in combination with a ski of a snowmobile with a central track and two spread out skis, to lock the snowmobile to the ground. The lock comprises a reversed U-shaped toothed section kept in place under a ski by means of a member going around the top of the ski. The toothed section has a number of triangular teeth under its U-shaped section, which penetrate into the ground and block one ski of a snowmobile. When a thief tries to set a snowmobile into motion, the locked ski stays attached to the ground, thus causing the snowmobile to pivot around the lock and not go forward.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 8, 1998
    Inventor: Camille Beland
  • Patent number: 5799515
    Abstract: A pivotal column auto lock to prevent unauthorized access to a steering column having a housing, and a cylinder lock for controlling a movable axis pin. The axis pin being formed so as to be flexibly inserted into an enclosure being secured, releasably upon a pivotal column enclosure to block the rotation of the pivotal column when a vehicle is parked. The housing having two equal walls that fits over a steering column-mounted ignition lock, thus a lock-housing having two figurations beneath that fits a pair of grooves upon the two equal walls. This arrangement secures these two equal walls above, while a releasably unmovable rod secures them bellow. The pivotal column enclosure includes two equal walls having a cutout through one wall thus of which a mounted gear-shift lever extends. A flat is provided upon the other equal wall for easy removal of the cylinder lock, when it is rotated to a neutral position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 1, 1998
    Inventor: Herbert R. Floyd
  • Patent number: 5791175
    Abstract: A vehicle security device against theft which comprises a mechanism built into the vehicle out of sight as original equipment or for the after market. The device is built into the gear change console (manual or automatic) housing which is usually a metal pressing fixed to the floor pan so that the mechanism is tamper proof. The mechanism is a plate which lifts into a position in which it locks the gear change into the reverse position, it is released by a high security key on the console. A servo is available to lock the ignition key in its socket to prevent it being withdrawn until the gear lock has been activated, to prevent people forgetting to activate the security device, assuming they are in the habit at least of removing the key before leaving the vehicle. This servo can work on a pneumatic or other basis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 5, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 11, 1998
    Inventor: Alphonso Albertus Van Wyk
  • Patent number: 5782115
    Abstract: An anti-theft device is provided for use with semi-trailers of the type which have a Dolly-Leg, a Dolly-Leg crank, and a Dolly-Leg crank handle. The anti-theft device includes a housing, a locking bar, and a lock. The housing has a top, an end panel, a first side, a second side, and a notched bottom, with the first side and the second side each having formed therein a first side aperture and a second side aperture respectively. The notched bottom has downwardly depending therefrom at least two lock chain guide harnesses. The locking bar has formed therein at one end thereof a locking bar aperture. The locking bar extends through both the first side and the second side of the housing, such that the locking bar passes through both the first side aperture as well as the second side aperture. The lock is secured to the locking bar by attachment thereto through the locking bar aperture. The device also preferably includes a chain, with the chain also being secured to the locking bar.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Inventor: Danny Lee Judy
  • Patent number: 5777546
    Abstract: A method of selection or deselection of automatic power door locks for an automotive vehicle includes the steps of inserting a key into an ignition switch of the automotive vehicle and rotating the key a predetermined number of times. The method also includes the steps of determining whether a power door lock switch was actuated and sounding an audible tone to verify selection or deselection of automatic power door locks if the power door lock switch was actuated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Assignee: Chrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick D. Dean, Stephen L. Hyde
  • Patent number: 5775141
    Abstract: A lock affixed to conventional hand brake structure, and by which, when the lock is unlocked, the hand brake can keep retain its normal functions. When the lock is locked, the hand brake can only be pulled up and cannot be released by pressing down a push button, thus locking is assured. Such structure is has the function of theft-proofing with convenience of use, also has the practicality and improveness in preventing from towing a vehicle away by thieves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 7, 1998
    Inventor: Chi-Yuan Li
  • Patent number: 5765408
    Abstract: A locking mechanism for securely locking a universal joint of the steering column of a heavy duty motor vehicle, the locking mechanism has a tampered tang or end of which passes through the universal joint. The end of the tang passing through the universal joint has an aperture therethrough for receiving the hasp of a lock container within a locking mechanism body. The locking mechanism body prevents access to the lock hasp to prevent breaking the lock. The tang is tapered to prevent its withdrawal from the lock body by cutting off the outer end of the tang.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Inventor: John Sanseverino
  • Patent number: 5755122
    Abstract: Two hinged parts (12) and (14) are moved about a pivot (34) to trap a steering wheel between them. A pivotally mounted locking bar (22) on the part (12) has openings (30). The bar (22) could be swung down about its pivot (32) such that a selected one of these openings moves over a loop (28) extending on the other half (14). A padlock can then be passed through the loop (28) to lock the device in position. In a storage configuration the locking bar (28) can be swung down into the space normally occupied by the wheel and trapped between the two parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Inventor: Mark Christopher Higginson
  • Patent number: 5755125
    Abstract: The present invention provides a small vehicle wheel locking assembly which may be quickly installed over one or more wheels of the unit to be protected, and then locked or bolted to the truck or to an adjacent structure. The preferred embodiment comprises basic top and bottom enclosures in which the wheel of the mobile unit may be placed prior to closure of both assemblies into a box like enclosure. One side of the bottom enclosure is hinged to permit rolling the wheel into the enclosure, and one side of the top enclosure is hinged to aid in sliding the enclosure over the top of the wheel. When closed, the upper subassembly is interlocked with the lower unit and secured with a shielded padlock. The lower subassembly may be secured to the bed of a pickup truck, or to a stationary object. In this manner, the wheel is immobilized against rolling and sliding, and access is denied to all points of wheel or tire disassembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Inventor: Leroy C. Charrette
  • Patent number: 5755124
    Abstract: Disclosed is a lock for use on a steering wheel having an air bag to particularly protect the air bag from being accessed and stolen. The lock includes a fixing seat having two forward extended and angularly spaced hooking bars and a downward extended rear hooking plate for the seat to fitly mount on a steering wheel. The fixing seat has a middle cover plate which just covers the air bag in the steering wheel. A receiving member is provided on a top of the cover plate to pivotally receive a front driving elbow of the movable rod therein. The locking device is adjustably connected to a rear locking bar of the movable rod and can be locked thereto so that the whole lock can be adapted to a steering wheel of any type and size. A rear end of the locking device is provided with many warning lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Inventor: Chao-Ling Chang
  • Patent number: 5735149
    Abstract: A motor vehicle security device for protecting against the cutting of an automobile steering wheel which includes a protective member made of cut-resistant material for covering the steering wheel rim and a connector for attaching the protective member to the steering wheel rim. The protective member radially and circumferentially overlies the steering wheel rim to limit access to the rim and protect against cutting of the rim. The protective member is collapsible for convenient storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Assignee: Winner International Royalty Corporation
    Inventor: James E. Winner, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5730011
    Abstract: In a structure for mounting a steering lock apparatus having a key cylinder unit fixed to an instrument panel and a key lock unit for permitting or regulating rotation of a steering shaft whose tilting is freely changed, a key cylinder interposing unit through which an end of the key cylinder unit is interposed and supported is formed in a plate bracket fixed in the instrument panel side, protrusions projecting upward are provided in an end of the key cylinder unit and an engaging groove for regulating rotation of the key cylinder unit by engaging with both sides of the protrusions and functioning as a stress concentration part for a load applied upward from the key cylinder unit is formed in the key cylinder interposing part.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Takehiro Terai
  • Patent number: 5730008
    Abstract: A snowmobile track lock having a generally U-shaped track member interconnected with a lock body. The track member is fitted over the snowmobile track and secured in place by the interconnected lock body. A handle extends from the track member to facilitate installation of the track lock. Additionally, a flag is mounted to the track lock to remind the operator to remove the track lock before operating the snowmobile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 24, 1998
    Inventors: Willard L. Case, Willard J. Case
  • Patent number: 5718133
    Abstract: An auto steering wheel lock is provided which has a locking set and which is connected with the steering wheel by means of a gripping trench and an auxiliary block, and is blocked with the outside of the instrument panel by means of a blocking rod. The position of the auxiliary block can be adapted for various steering wheels of different sizes by means of an elastic element. The locking set mainly includes a lock and a lock rod, which has a flat recess for engagement by a blocking pin when turning the lock and so obstruct the lock rod from withdrawing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 17, 1998
    Assignee: All Ship Enterprise Co., LTD.
    Inventors: Shih-Yu Chen, Shu-Hwa Lin
  • Patent number: 5715710
    Abstract: A brake pedal immobilizing device has first and second shafts with crossheads mounted thereon for relative longitudinal sliding movement to clamp a brake pedal shaft between them. The second shaft carries a stand-off formed by a floor engaging foot extending longitudinally aligned below the crossheads, supporting the device on the vehicle floor during clamping adjustment. The second crosshead is formed with a hook and is rotatively mounted on one end of the first shaft while the other crosshead is mounted on the first shaft in a screw fit. An upper end of the first shaft is received in a sleeve with a shaft locking mechanism and terminates in a handle. A third crosshead carries a third shaft slidingly received in the first crosshead and having a lower end forming a locking/wedging pin for receipt in a bore in the second crosshead in the clamping position to complete enclosure of the brake pedal shaft. A barrier frame is attached to the first crosshead above a brake pedal to block forcing tool access.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 1996
    Date of Patent: February 10, 1998
    Inventors: Achille A. De Lucia, Roger De Lucia