Patents by Inventor Robert Bruce Kleve
Robert Bruce Kleve has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Patent number: 11555336Abstract: A powered latch system for motor vehicles includes at least one powered latch that can be controlled based, at least in part, on vehicle operating conditions. The system may be configured to control unlatching of the vehicle doors utilizing data relating to the vehicle speed and/or the existence of a crash event. The powered latch system can be configured as required for various vehicles, and to accommodate specific operating requirements with respect to child locks in various geographic jurisdictions.Type: GrantFiled: April 29, 2019Date of Patent: January 17, 2023Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Robert Bruce Kleve, John Thomas Ricks, Jim Michael Weinfurther, John Robert Van Wiemeersch, Ronald Patrick Brombach, Laura Viviana Hazebrouck, Lisa Therese Boran, Howard Paul Tsvi Linden
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Patent number: 11466484Abstract: A latch system for vehicle doors includes a powered latch including a powered actuator that is configured to unlatch the powered latch. An interior unlatch input feature such as an unlatch switch can be actuated by a user to provide an unlatch request. The system may include a controller that is operably connected to the powered actuator of the powered latch. The controller is configured such that it does not unlatch the powered latch if a vehicle speed is greater than a predefined value unless the interior latch feature is actuated at least two times according to predefined criteria.Type: GrantFiled: September 24, 2018Date of Patent: October 11, 2022Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: H. Paul Tsvi Linden, Daniel Carl Bejune, John Robert Van Wiemeersch, Kosta Papanikolaou, Noah Barlow Mass, Lisa Therese Boran, Ronald Patrick Brombach, Jim Michael Weinfurther, Robert Bruce Kleve, John Thomas Ricks
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Patent number: 11270233Abstract: A computer-implemented method for detecting a working condition of one or more vehicle components includes communicating with a cellular communication module in a vehicle over a telecommunications network. A vehicle component characteristic or identifier for the vehicle components is received over the telecommunication network. One or more operation status identifiers for the one or more vehicle components based on data from the vehicle is also received. A location for servicing or purchasing the one or more vehicle components based on the vehicle component characteristic or identifier is determined. A service status of the one or more vehicle components based on the one or more operation status identifiers is also determined. Based on the service status, a message including an identification of the vehicle components and a service or purchase location for the vehicle components is generated. The message is transmitted to a terminal for display.Type: GrantFiled: July 19, 2017Date of Patent: March 8, 2022Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Steven Yellin Schondorf, Robert Bruce Kleve, John Robert Van Wiemeersch, Dilip B. Patel, Brian Bennie, Gregory Swadling
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Publication number: 20220009447Abstract: Example embodiments described in this disclosure are generally directed to the use of a multi-zone geofence for key-free vehicle operations management. The multi-zone geofence may include a first zone where vehicles can be operated without the use of keys or key fobs, and a second zone surrounding the first zone where a first set of functional restrictions are imposed upon the vehicles. The first set of functional restrictions can include an upper speed limit that is automatically imposed upon a vehicle. The multi-zone geofence can include additional zones having functional restrictions, such as a third zone surrounding the second zone wherein key-free vehicle operations are permitted with a second set of restrictions. The second set of restrictions may include a directional speed feature involving an automatic speed reduction upon a vehicle travelling towards a periphery of the third zone and lifting the speed reduction if the vehicle turns back.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 10, 2020Publication date: January 13, 2022Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Robert Bruce Kleve, John Robert Van Wiemeersch, John Eric Rollinger, Scott Steadmon Thompson, Nicholas Herhusky, Scott Christensen, Adam J. Richards
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Patent number: 10831859Abstract: In a first illustrative embodiment, a processor operably programmed and configured to receive input defining one or more vehicle parameters to monitor and control during a vehicle rental. The processor may monitor and control the vehicle parameters during a vehicle rental period starting when an authorized user keylessly activates a vehicle during a defined start time. The processor may control driver behavior by limiting vehicle performance based on a predefined threshold of one or more vehicle parameters. The monitoring and control may continue until the rental period has expired or when the vehicle is returned to a predetermined geographic area designated by the vehicle owner. The processor may initiate wireless communication of the vehicle parameters to a vehicle rental administrative system through a cellular telephone located in proximity to the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2012Date of Patent: November 10, 2020Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: John Robert Van Wiemeersch, Robert Bruce Kleve
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Patent number: 10692313Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a system for authorizing use of a vehicle communication and information system may include one or more data processors configured to receive information associating one or more devices with a vehicle computer. The data processor(s) may be also configured to receive information identifying a user requesting authorization to command the vehicle controls from the one or more devices associated with the vehicle computer. The user(s) may be authorized to command the vehicle controls from the one or more devices associated with the vehicle computer based on performing an authentication process for authenticating the user, determining that the user is an authenticated user based on the authentication process, and enabling command of one or more vehicle controls from the one or more remote devices via the associated vehicle computer based on the user being authenticated.Type: GrantFiled: May 14, 2015Date of Patent: June 23, 2020Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Robert Bruce Kleve, Brian Petersen, Ritesh Pandya, Edward Andrew Pleet, John Robert Van Wiemeersch
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Patent number: 10576941Abstract: A pump system includes a pneumatic pump, a hose, a nozzle that can attach to a tire of a vehicle, and a processing device. The processing device receives a target tire pressure for the tire, receives a current tire pressure of the tire, and controls the operation of the pneumatic pump according to the target tire pressure and the current tire pressure. A method includes receiving a target tire pressure for a tire of a vehicle, receiving a current tire pressure of the tire, and controlling operation of a pneumatic pump according to the target tire pressure and the current tire pressure.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2018Date of Patent: March 3, 2020Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: Steven Yellin Schondorf, John Robert Van Wiemeersch, Robert Bruce Kleve, Greg Swadling, Dilip B. Patel
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Patent number: 10438485Abstract: In at least one embodiment, an apparatus for transmitting vehicle information to a portable personal communication device (PCD) is provided. The apparatus comprises a communication module positioned in the first vehicle. The communication module is configured to transmit a first signal including static information and dynamic information to the first PCD. The static information includes one of a first vehicle serial number and a vehicle type and the dynamic information includes one of a connect status, a driver alert rating, and a silent alarm. The first PCD is arranged to control operation thereof based on at least one of the static information and the dynamic information.Type: GrantFiled: March 8, 2016Date of Patent: October 8, 2019Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Thomas Lee Miller, Doron M. Elliott, Robert Bruce Kleve
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Patent number: 10427486Abstract: A vehicle system may include a controller configured to receive a height selection indicating a vehicle height from a plurality of vehicle height options, detect, via a first sensor, a low clearance structure and determine a clearance height, compare the vehicle height with the clearance height; and generate an alert in response to the vehicle height being greater than the clearance height.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2016Date of Patent: October 1, 2019Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Robert Bruce Kleve, Anthony Gerald King, Brian Wolski
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Publication number: 20190249463Abstract: A powered latch system for motor vehicles includes at least one powered latch that can be controlled based, at least in part, on vehicle operating conditions. The system may be configured to control unlatching of the vehicle doors utilizing data relating to the vehicle speed and/or the existence of a crash event. The powered latch system can be configured as required for various vehicles, and to accommodate specific operating requirements with respect to child locks in various geographic jurisdictions.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2019Publication date: August 15, 2019Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Robert Bruce Kleve, John Thomas Ricks, Jim Michael Weinfurther, John Robert Van Wiemeersch, Ronald Patrick Brombach, Laura Viviana Hazebrouck, Lisa Therese Boran, Howard Paul Tsvi Linden
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Patent number: 10323442Abstract: A powered latch system for motor vehicles includes at least one powered latch that can be controlled based, at least in part, on vehicle operating conditions. The system may be configured to control unlatching of the vehicle doors utilizing data relating to the vehicle speed and/or the existence of a crash event. The powered latch system can be configured as required for various vehicles, and to accommodate specific operating requirements with respect to child locks in various geographic jurisdictions.Type: GrantFiled: April 27, 2015Date of Patent: June 18, 2019Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Robert Bruce Kleve, John Thomas Ricks, Jim Michael Weinfurther, John Robert Van Wiemeersch, Ronald Patrick Brombach, Laura Viviana Hazebrouck, Lisa Therese Boran, Howard Paul Tsvi Linden
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Patent number: 10301855Abstract: A vehicle door includes a powered latch configured to selectively retain the door in a closed position when the powered latch is latched, and permits the door to be opened when the powered latch is unlatched. The vehicle door further includes an exterior door handle having an outer side that faces away from the door structure, and an inner side that is spaced apart from an outer surface of the door to define a gap. A force sensor on the exterior door handle detects impact forces on the handle. The door also includes an unlatch switch that can be actuated by a user to request unlatching of the powered latch. A controller is configured to deny an unlatch request generated by actuation of the unlatch switch if the force sensor detects an impact on the exterior handle.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2017Date of Patent: May 28, 2019Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: John Robert Van Wiemeersch, Kosta Papanikolaou, Robert Bruce Kleve, Michael Hrecznyj
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Patent number: 10273725Abstract: A powered door latch system for vehicles includes a controller configured to receive data concerning vehicle operating conditions. The door latch system also includes at least one electrically powered door latch having a powered actuator that can be actuated by the controller to unlatch the electrically powered latch. An emergency release is mechanically connected to the electrically powered latch to mechanically release the latch. The system also includes a user communication device such as a display screen that is operably connected to the controller. The user communication device provides a user with information concerning the location and/or operation of the emergency release if a predefined operating condition such as a loss of electrical power has occurred.Type: GrantFiled: May 13, 2014Date of Patent: April 30, 2019Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: John Robert Van Wiemeersch, Robert Bruce Kleve, Ronald Patrick Brombach, Rajesh K. Patel
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Patent number: 10267068Abstract: A vehicle door includes a powered latch mechanism and an interior door handle having first and second sensors disposed on opposite sides of the interior door handle. The first and second sensors are configured to detect the presence of a user's hand to control operation of the powered latch mechanism. The powered latch may be unlatched if an unlatch switch is actuated and the first and second sensors detect the presence of a user's hand.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2018Date of Patent: April 23, 2019Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: John Robert Van Wiemeersch, Robert Bruce Kleve, Kosta Papanikolaou
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Publication number: 20190088036Abstract: A vehicle rental administrative system comprising a computer system configured to manage vehicle rental transactions between vehicle owners and potential Temporary Users. The system allows an owner to develop a customer profile with information related to a rentable vehicle. The customer profile may include, but not limited to, the model year of the vehicle, engine specifications, and the rental rate. The potential Temporary User may request a certain vehicle to rent, and the system may provide a list of one or more vehicles matching the request. Once the Temporary User selects a vehicle, the system may notify customer that his vehicle has been selected. The customer may either approve or deny permission to rent vehicle. If the customer approves, a rental agreement is signed and the system sends a code to both vehicle and Temporary User's mobile device for a predetermined rental period to allow keyless drive-away of the vehicle.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 19, 2018Publication date: March 21, 2019Inventors: John Robert VAN WIEMEERSCH, Robert Bruce KLEVE, Michael HRECZNYJ, Thomas Joseph HERMANN
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Publication number: 20190024416Abstract: A latch system for vehicle doors includes a powered latch including a powered actuator that is configured to unlatch the powered latch. An interior unlatch input feature such as an unlatch switch can be actuated by a user to provide an unlatch request. The system may include a controller that is operably connected to the powered actuator of the powered latch. The controller is configured such that it does not unlatch the powered latch if a vehicle speed is greater than a predefined value unless the interior latch feature is actuated at least two times according to predefined criteria.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 24, 2018Publication date: January 24, 2019Inventors: H. Paul Tsvi Linden, Daniel Carl Bejune, John Robert Van Wiemeersch, Kosta Papanikolaou, Noah Barlow Mass, Lisa Therese Boran, Ronald Patrick Brombach, Jim Michael Weinfurther, Robert Bruce Kleve, John Thomas Ricks
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Publication number: 20180354470Abstract: A pump system includes a pneumatic pump, a hose, a nozzle that can attach to a tire of a vehicle, and a processing device. The processing device receives a target tire pressure for the tire, receives a current tire pressure of the tire, and controls the operation of the pneumatic pump according to the target tire pressure and the current tire pressure. A method includes receiving a target tire pressure for a tire of a vehicle, receiving a current tire pressure of the tire, and controlling operation of a pneumatic pump according to the target tire pressure and the current tire pressure.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 22, 2018Publication date: December 13, 2018Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Steven Yellin Schondorf, John Robert Van Wiemeersch, Robert Bruce Kleve, Greg Swadling, Dilip B. Patel
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Patent number: 10119308Abstract: A latch system for vehicle doors includes a powered latch including a powered actuator that is configured to unlatch the powered latch. An interior unlatch input feature such as an unlatch switch can be actuated by a user to provide an unlatch request. The system may include a controller that is operably connected to the powered actuator of the powered latch. The controller is configured such that it does not unlatch the powered latch if a vehicle speed is greater than a predefined value unless the interior latch feature is actuated at least two times according to predefined criteria.Type: GrantFiled: May 16, 2014Date of Patent: November 6, 2018Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: H. Paul Tsvi Linden, Daniel Carl Bejune, John Robert Van Wiemeersch, Robert Bruce Kleve, John Thomas Ricks, Kosta Papanikolaou, Noah Barlow Mass, Lisa Therese Boran, Ronald Patrick Brombach, Jim Michael Weinfurther
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Patent number: 10086803Abstract: A pump system includes a pneumatic pump, a hose, a nozzle that can attach to a tire of a vehicle, and a processing device. The processing device receives a target tire pressure for the tire, receives a current tire pressure of the tire, and controls the operation of the pneumatic pump according to the target tire pressure and the current tire pressure. A method includes receiving a target tire pressure for a tire of a vehicle, receiving a current tire pressure of the tire, and controlling operation of a pneumatic pump according to the target tire pressure and the current tire pressure.Type: GrantFiled: August 27, 2013Date of Patent: October 2, 2018Assignee: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: Steven Yellin Schondorf, John Robert Van Wiemeersch, Robert Bruce Kleve, Greg Swadling, Dilip B. Patel
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Patent number: 10075806Abstract: A vehicle tracking system includes a remote portable wireless device. The system also includes a wireless transceiving device included in each of a plurality of vehicles, the wireless transceiving device in communication with a GPS device. The system further includes a server, capable of communicating with both the remote portable wireless device and each wireless transceiving device. The at least one server may receive a plurality of vehicle selections from the remote portable wireless device. The server may also determine a vehicle that corresponds to each of the plurality of selections, including a cellular phone number for each determined vehicle. The server may further transmit tracking instructions to each determined vehicle and receive GPS coordinates from each vehicle. The server may compare the received coordinates from each vehicle and report a deviance beyond a predetermined threshold to the remote portable wireless device.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2010Date of Patent: September 11, 2018Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Robert Bruce Kleve, John Robert Van Wiemeersch