Abstract: An engine comprises a timer (20), which is provided with a temperature-sensing operation mechanism (7). During a cold-starting term, a downstream interlocking portion (2) advances by an advancing operation of the timer (20) based on an operation that the temperature-sensing operation mechanism (7) makes upon sensing the temperature. While the engine is warm, the downstream interlocking portion (2) cancels an advancement by an advancement-cancellation operation of the timer (20) based on another operation that the temperature-sensing operation mechanism (7) makes upon sensing the temperature. The engine oil (56) within the engine is supplied from the oil-supply port (58) to the timer (20), thereby enabling the engine oil (56) in liquid state to contact the temperature-sensing operation mechanism (7).

Abstract: A slave controller for a remote vehicle starting system. The slave controller is mounted in a vehicle having an internal combustion engine started by a starter motor. The slave controller has an antenna circuit input for connection to an antenna circuit suitable for picking up an RF signal and an output. The slave controller also has a control module, coupled to the antenna circuit input. The control module is responsive to a signal transmitted through the antenna circuit input and originating from the antenna circuit to generate a command signal at the output for directing the starter motor to crank the internal combustion engine. The control module is operative to establish a data communication with an external entity through the antenna circuit input to perform a maintenance procedure.

Abstract: A remote starting device prevents the temperature of exhaust gas from being made too high or the amount of toxic gas around a vehicle from being made too large by engine starting by remote control. The remote starting device controls a starter for starting an engine of the vehicle when receiving an engine start command from a portable transmitter. The remote starting device includes a section for deciding whether the engine starting has been frequently conducted, and a section for limiting the engine starting through receiving the engine start command from the portable transmitter when it is decided that the engine starting has been frequently conducted.

Abstract: A process for starting a supplementary direct injection vehicle heater (10) with the following steps: detecting a starting signal (14) which is independent of the ignition process of the internal combustion engine (12), initiating measures to prepare for heating operation of the supplementary direct injection vehicle heater (10) when the starting signal (14) has appeared, and initiation of heating operation of the supplementary direct injection vehicle heater (10) when the internal combustion engine (12) is being started.

Abstract: An engine start control unit enables engine start when a user performs a predetermined normal time push operation on a push switch in a normal mode. The engine start control unit enables the engine start when the user performs a predetermined fail-safe push operation on the push switch in a fail-safe mode. The fail-safe push operation of the push switch requires an increased work load of the user in comparison to that of the normal time push operation of the push switch.

Abstract: A device for starting a vehicle in an emergency is disclosed. The device includes a fob key for transferring a starting signal for starting the vehicle via a wireless connection or a driver's authentication information via a Universal Serial Bus (USB) connection, and a vehicle starting unit for receiving the starting signal or the driver's authentication information, determining whether a driver in question is a valid user, and starting the vehicle. The vehicle starting unit includes an interface unit for receiving the driver's authentication information transferred via a USB connection, an audio unit for identifying the driver's authentication information transferred from the interface unit, and a Personal Identification Card (PIC) unit for receiving the driver's authentication information from the audio unit or the starting signal from the fob key, determining whether the driver in question is a valid user, and starting the vehicle.

Abstract: A set of remote switches (14, 16) located outside the cab of a truck enables service personnel to crank, accelerate, decelerate, and shut off the truck's engine without having to enter the cab. The set of switches are interlocked with controls (12, 13) inside the occupant compartment, including the ignition switch (12) that is used to crank the engine from inside the cab, via an engine control system (11) that uses the state of a switch that senses locking/unlocking of the cab on the chassis engine control system (11) to select either the remote switches or the occupant compartment controls to the exclusion of the other for controlling engine running once the engine has been cranked and started.

Abstract: A system is provided for remote starting of a vehicle. The system includes a transmitter adapted to transmit a command signal and a vehicle. Onboard the vehicle is an engine, a receiver, adapted to accepting the command signal, and an occupant detection system. The occupant detection system may be part of an airbag occupant detection system, for example. The occupant detection system generates a signal indicating whether at least one occupant is in the vehicle. A processor generates a start request signal in response to the command signal and occupant signal if the occupant signal indicates that no occupants are in the vehicle. Occupant detection can be by means of detecting pressure, weight or capacitance on a seat or other suitable means.

Abstract: An engine start control system for a vehicle includes a first switch with which a user operates to start the engine, a second switch, a third switch, a brake switch and an engine start control unit for controlling start of the engine. The engine start control unit provides a normal mode that allows to start the engine when the first switch is operated if the brake switch detects operation of the brake pedal and a failsafe mode that allows to start the engine when at least two of the first, second and third switches are operated even if the brake switch does not detect operation of the brake pedal.

Abstract: A vehicle controller controls an operation of an engine of a vehicle when the engine is started with a remote command. The vehicle controller decreases the number of idle revolutions of the engine, supplies diluted fuel to the engine, uses only a few cylinders of the engine, changes parameters used in detecting and preventing knocking of the engine, controls the windows or curtains of the windows of the engine to increase the efficiency of air conditioning, and supplies lesser power to in-vehicle devices.

Abstract: A signal is received (201, 301) via a wireless communication channel, which signal requests initiation of pre-cycle warm-up for one or more components of an internal combustion engine. It is determined (203, 303) whether at least one of the one or more components requires pre-cycle warm-up. When at least one of the one or more engine components requires pre-cycle warm-up, the at least one of the one or more components is warmed up (205, 207, 305, 307).

Abstract: It is an object of the invention to provide the operability of an engine power generator having a remote controller. A starting switch 90 of a remote controller 9 and a starting switch on a power generator body's side can be operated in parallel. A stopping switch 91 of the remote controller 9 and a stopping switch on the body's side can be operated in parallel. The stopping switch 91 and an oil level switch 26 are connected to each other in parallel. The starting switch 90 and the stopping switch 91 can be operated when a combination switch 12 is in ON position. An engine 2 can be started and stopped by switching operation on the body's side in parallel to remote control operation.

Abstract: A slave controller for a remote vehicle starting system. The slave controller is mounted in a vehicle having an internal combustion engine started by a starter motor. The slave controller has an antenna circuit input for connection to an antenna circuit suitable for picking up an RF signal and an output. The slave controller also has a control module, coupled to the antenna circuit input. The control module is responsive to a signal transmitted through the antenna circuit input and originating from the antenna circuit to generate a command signal at the output for directing the starter motor to crank the internal combustion engine. The control module is operative to establish a data communication with an external entity through the antenna circuit input to perform a maintenance procedure.

Abstract: An improved remote car starter shielding apparatus consisting of a hard, durable, quadrangular convexly shaped shielding component with a plurality of holes in it near the top edge thereof through which a key-ring component, also affixable to a remote car starter unit through a hole in the car starter unit, is inserted and with an elongated elastic banding component, the ends of which are insertable through each of two laterally positioned holes in the shielding component and thereafter respectively affixed to respective remnant portions of the body of the elongated elastic banding component, serving to facilitate affixation of the shielding component about and above the frontal aspect of the remote car starter unit by way of the elastic banding component being fitted about the body of the remote car starter unit.

Abstract: Herein is disclosed a snowmobile configured to start in response to a remote-start signal. One embodiment of the invention includes a snowmobile outfitted with a remote starting system. The remote starting system, itself, includes a remote starting activation switch that transmits a radio frequency signal to a remote starter module to initiate starting of an engine within the snowmobile. The remote starter module receives the radio frequency signal from the remote starting activation switch and, in response to receiving the radio frequency signal, initiates closure of a switch interposed between a battery and a starter motor, thereby causing the starter motor to crank and start the engine of the snowmobile. The engine may be shut off by the remote starting system if the engine RPM exceeds a threshold value.

Abstract: An engine starter adapted to substitute for the traction rope type engine starter of the engine of a remote-control toy car is constructed to include a casing covered with a cover plate to hold a cushion, a driven bevel gear, a driving bevel gear, a locating block and a locating cap on the inside for enabling the starter rod of an electric auxiliary starter to be coupled to the polygonal coupling hole at the driven bevel gear and operated to start the engine.

Abstract: An engine start control system of the present invention has a power supply controller which includes an ignition power supply relay activating an electric component of a vehicle and a central processing unit controlling the ignition power supply relay, a communication device communicating with a portable unit to authenticate a validity of the portable unit and performing engine start control. Further, the engine start control system has the a first drive line provided between the communication device and the ignition power supply relay and not routed through the central processing unit. By this structure, the system can obtain redundancy.

Abstract: A method is provided for monitoring and mitigating exhaust gas emitted from a vehicle in a closable structure. A remote monitoring device within the closable structure is trained in response to a training signal transmitted from a remote transmitter device. A remote engine start signal is intercepted within a receiving circuit of the remote monitoring device during an actual remote engine start operation. The exhaust gas emitted from the vehicle is monitored in response to receiving the remote engine start signal. A determination is made if an exhaust gas concentration level is greater than a predetermined threshold. A control signal is transmitted to a mitigation device for mitigating the exhaust gas within the closable structure when the exhaust gas concentration level is greater than the predetermined threshold.

Abstract: An automotive remote start assembly 10 for use in an automobile 14 is provided. The automotive remote start assembly 10 includes a portable remote device 12 having a remote transmitter element 18 and a remote receiver element 20 in communication with a remote controller element 16. The remote controller element 16 is configured to transmit an operator initiated ignition signal 24, receive a main system confirmation signal 34, and transmit a remote system confirmation signal 42 upon receipt of the main system confirmation signal 34. The automotive remote start assembly 10 further includes an in-vehicle remote start module 26 having an internal transmitter element 30 and an internal receiver element 32 in communication with an internal controller element 28.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and apparatus, consistent with principles of the present invention, allow an unmodified device, for example, a dc starter motor, that normally operates at a first voltage to function in an electrical system providing a second voltage, which is different from the first voltage, and received from the power source. A device actuator, such as a solenoid, is controlled using the second voltage. The first voltage is produced and supplied to the device in response to a first action of the actuator, for example, upon solenoid depression. This voltage is then inhibited from being provided to the device in response to a second action of the actuator, for example, upon solenoid retraction after engine cranking.

Abstract: Herein is disclosed a snowmobile configured to start in response to a remote-start signal. One embodiment of the invention includes a snowmobile outfitted with a remote starting system. The remote starting system, itself, includes a remote starting activation switch that transmits a radio frequency signal to a remote starter module to initiate starting of an engine within the snowmobile. The remote starter module receives the radio frequency signal from the remote starting activation switch and, in response to receiving the radio frequency signal, initiates closure of a switch interposed between a battery and a starter motor, thereby causing the starter motor to crank and start the engine of the snowmobile.

Abstract: The vehicle disabling system includes a vehicle control unit for positioning in a vehicle with a transceiver for transmitting and receiving signals to receive an inquiry signal and transmit an identification code upon the receipt of the inquiry signal. A central database station includes memory for storing a plurality of identification codes of vehicle control units. An authorization code is associated each identification code. A mobile law enforcement unit is positionable in a law enforcement vehicle, and includes a transceiver for transmitting and receiving signals to transmit the inquiry signal to a vehicle control unit. The law enforcement unit receives an identification code from the vehicle control unit and transmits the identification code to central database station. The law enforcement unit transmits the stop signal with the authorization code to the vehicle control unit upon receiving the authorization code from the central database station.

Abstract: An engine (1) of a vehicle comprises an identification device (11) which verifies the identification code of an electronic key (12) using a wireless signal. The controller (5) executes an idle stop under predetermined stop conditions (S6, S7) and re-starts the engine (1) during the idle stop when any one of a plurality of restart conditions are satisfied. The restart conditions include a restart request from the driver of the vehicle (S6, S7). The controller (7) commands the identification device (11) to verify the identification code of the electronic key (12) when restart conditions are established which do not correspond to the restart request to the engine (1) of the driver during an idle stop. When the verification is unsuccessful, restarting of the engine (1) is prohibited and thus it is possible to prevent restarting the engine (1) when the driver is not present.

Abstract: Anti-theft security devices for a motor vehicle, comprise portable transmitting elements, of a receiving module on board the vehicle and of elements controlling a system for interrupting at least one circuit required for operating the vehicle (ignition circuit engine, fuel intake circuit or other . . . ) when the distance between the transmitting elements and the receiving elements exceeds a certain value. The method for managing the operation of such a device consists, when resetting the affected circuit(s), following an interruption relative to accidental signal loss, in performing this resetting only very gradually.

Abstract: A programmable vehicle starting device for starting a vehicle when the user is not in the vehicle. The programmable vehicle starting device includes a housing being designed for being mounted in the vehicle. A processing assembly is positioned within the housing. The processing assembly is designed for operationally coupling to an ignition system of the vehicle whereby the processing assembly starts an engine of the vehicle upon reaching a pre-determined time. A plurality of buttons are positioned on an upper face of the housing. Each of the buttons is operationally coupled to the processing assembly whereby the buttons are for manipulating the pre-determined time when the buttons are engaged by a finger of the user. A display screen is positioned on the upper surface of the housing. The display screen is operationally coupled to the processing assembly whereby the display screen is for displaying the pre-determined time.

Abstract: An automotive remote start assembly 10 for use in an automobile 14 is provided. The automotive remote start assembly 10 includes a portable remote device 12 having a remote transmitter element 18 and a remote receiver element 20 in communication with a remote controller element 16. The remote controller element 16 is configured to transmit an operator initiated ignition signal 24, receive a main system confirmation signal 34, and transmit a remote system confirmation signal 42 upon receipt of the main system confirmation signal 34. The automotive remote start assembly 10 further includes an in-vehicle remote start module 26 having an internal transmitter element 30 and an internal receiver element 32 in communication with an internal controller element 28.

Abstract: Hydraulically actuated aerial lift units for trucks typically have a primary hydraulic pump system driven by the vehicle's engine or by an electric motor. An actuation system accessible to a worker suspended by the aerial lift unit allows the worker to cycle the vehicle's engine on and off and, on vehicles so equipped, activate the backup motor for lowering the aerial lift unit.

Abstract: A safety device for a remotely-activated power supplying system of a manual transmission vehicle includes a starting safety unit connected to a main controller for detecting the presence of a safety condition, and an ignition key detector connected to the main controller for detecting if an ignition key is uprooted from a key-operated power supplying system. Thus, the main controller can be configured to activate a power supplying device to supply electric power to an ignition system when a wirelessly transmitted start signal is received by the main controller, when the safety condition is detected by the starting safety unit, and when the ignition key detector detects that the ignition key is uprooted.

Abstract: A remote start-up control apparatus which takes in a key code outputted on the basis of insertion of a key cylinder of an ignition key, and which is mounted on a vehicle which was equipped with an immobilizer unit for enabling a start-up of an engine, in case that it was judged that the taken-in key code is in conformity with a predetermined key code, and which carries out start-up control of an engine in response to an instruction of a portable transmitter, has a unit for supplying a key code which has been stored in an EEPROM to the immobilizer, when it received a start-up instruction of the engine according to a remote operation, and a unit for prohibiting supply of the key code, in case that there occurred vehicle theft.

Abstract: In an engine having a crankshaft and a camshaft, the current angular position of a rotor fixed to the crankshaft is detected, and a top dead center (TDC) position of the crankshaft is determined based on the current angular position of the rotor, wherein the TDC position is one of an ignition top dead center (ITDC) and a gas transfer top dead center (GTDC). This determination may be made using a learning routine the first time the engine is started. The camshaft angle is then determined based on the TDC value and the current rotor position, and transmitted to a control unit for the engine. The current angular position of the rotor and the camshaft angle are stored in a memory unit when the engine stops, for use the next time the engine is started.

Abstract: Herein is disclosed a snowmobile configured to start in response to a remote-start signal. One embodiment of the invention includes a snowmobile outfitted with a remote starting system. The remote starting system, itself, includes a remote starting activation switch that transmits a radio frequency signal to a remote starter module to initiate starting of an engine within the snowmobile. The remote starter module receives the radio frequency signal from the remote starting activation switch and, in response to receiving the radio frequency signal, initiates closure of a switch interposed between a battery and a starter motor, thereby causing the starter motor to crank and start the engine of the snowmobile.

Abstract: An engine control system for remotely controlling an internal combustion engine. The engine control system includes a pair of relay systems that are connected with an ignition system and a starting system of the engine. The engine control system, according to the signals received from the transmitter, causes the relay systems to be either energized or de-energized as required to start and/or stop the engine. The relay systems are configured to be energized as either as long as a signal is received from the transmitter or to be energized even after the signal is no longer received. This enables the engine control system to temporarily activate the starting system of an engine until the engine is started while more permanently activating the ignition system until the engine is shut down, at which time the appropriate relay system is de-energized.

Abstract: An automobile vehicle equipped with a “hands-free” access and/or engine starting system controlled by a management logic subassembly and equipped with a radio receiver subassembly, which includes at the top of the vehicle's steering column a radio antenna and which converts radio signals received by said antenna into signals exploitable by said management logic subassembly to enable it, when it recognizes said signals as coming from an identification device of a predetermined user, to authorize or trigger an operation in the vehicle, said management logic subassembly, said radio receiver subassembly and said antenna being integrated in and interconnected by an electronic board, wherein this electronic board also includes a subassembly providing interfaces with “on-the-column” control and/or signaling parts mounted on the vehicle's steering column or steering wheel and/or on one or more satellite modules mounted on this steering column.

Abstract: A pass-key electronic module is provided for enabling remote control of a function in a motor vehicle equipped with a key identity code verifying anti-theft system, under control of a vehicle control unit connected to a key identity code receiving sensor through a data communication link and an enable line. The module comprises (a) a communication circuit enabling communication with the vehicle control unit through the data communication link, (b) an input receiver circuit for receiving a command signal from a remote control system controller, (c) a switching circuit for disabling the sensor from communicating with the vehicle control unit upon sensing of the command signal through the input circuit, and (d) a memory circuit storing an operating program and an identity code subject to validation by the vehicle control unit.

Abstract: A remote start control system may include an engine speed data bus reader at the vehicle for reading the engine speed signal on the vehicle data communications bus, and a remote start controller at the vehicle and connected to a receiver and the engine speed data bus reader for operating the engine starter based upon a remote start transmitter and based upon the engine speed signal. In some embodiments, the engine speed signal may include a digital code, and the engine speed data bus reader reads the digital code and converts the digital code into a pulsed tachometer emulation signal for the remote start controller. In other embodiments, the engine speed data bus reader generates an output level based upon the digital code exceeding at least one threshold, such as an engine started or engine overspeed threshold. The remote start control system is readily interfaced to a vehicle having a data communications bus to thereby be able to operate using an engine speed signal.

Abstract: A safety switch is coupled to a control line of a vehicle starting system, and includes a first electrical connector that terminates a second branch of the control line, a first resistor that connects a first branch of the control line to a first voltage source, a switch element having a first end connected to a second voltage source, and a second end terminated by a second electrical connector that mates with the first electrical connector, and a second resistor connected in parallel with the switch element. The switch element makes or breaks electrical connection between the first and second ends according to a detected position state of an engine hood of the vehicle. The starting system is enabled so as to permit remote-controlled activation of the vehicle only when a voltage drop, the magnitude of which is between the voltage outputs of the first and second voltage sources, is present at the control line.

Abstract: A slave controller for a remote vehicle starting system. The slave controller is mounted in a vehicle having an internal combustion engine started by a starter motor. The slave controller has an antenna circuit input for connection to an antenna circuit suitable for picking up an RF signal and an output. The slave controller also has a control module, coupled to the antenna circuit input. The control module is responsive to a signal transmitted through the antenna circuit input and originating from the antenna circuit to generate a command signal at the output for directing the starter motor to clank the internal combustion engine. The control module is operative to establish a data communication with all external entity through the antenna circuit input to perform a maintenance procedure.

Abstract: A method for starting a car engine remotely by sensing the car battery voltage using an algorithm that can adjust its K value on a regular basis whenever the remote control is put into learn mode and a manual sequence is carried out prior to starting the car remotely. The device is highly reliable and easy to install due to a reduction in the amount of wires necessary for its installation and functioning. The device can be used for a wide variety of vehicles.

Abstract: A vehicle security system has an access monitoring device which includes an access control part and/or an electronic immobilizing device which comprises an immobilizer control part, located on the vehicle. An authentication device can be carried by the user for actuation, subject to authentication, of the respective control part on the vehicle via an associated wireless actuation communication channel. Both an actuation communication channel which needs a key, and a wireless actuation communication channel which needs no key (and communicates based on proximity, without manual actuation) are provided for actuating a control part on the vehicle, optionally via one or the other actuation communication channel. The actuation communication channel which requires a key is given priority over the corresponding actuation communication channel which needs no key.

Abstract: A safety switch is coupled to a control line of a vehicle starting system, and includes a first electrical connector that terminates a second branch of the control line, a first resistor that connects a first branch of the control line to a first voltage source, a switch element having a first end connected to a second voltage source, and a second end terminated by a second electrical connector that mates with the first electrical connector, and a second resistor connected in parallel with the switch element. The switch element makes or breaks electrical connection between the first and second ends according to a detected position state of an engine hood of the vehicle. The starting system is enabled so as to permit remote-controlled activation of the vehicle only when a voltage drop, the magnitude of which is between the voltage outputs of the first and second voltage sources, is present at the control line.

Abstract: A keyless entry system for a motor vehicle is modified to be operable when the vehicle's engine is running and the vehicle's park brake is set. Keyless entry systems conventionally include an ignition switch position signal source and a door lock module having an enable input connected to the source of the ignition position signal. The disclosure teaches connecting the output of the ignition switch position sensor to the door lock modulo enable input through the part brake lamp. The enable input to the door lock module is then connected in common with the a park brake lamp switch. When the park brake lamp switch is closed by setting the park brake and activates the park brake lamp, the ignition position feed signal on the enable input is sunk by the switch and the potential level on the enable Is reduced, enabling the door lock module to operate as though the ignition switch had been moved to off.

Abstract: A tachometer apparatus of a remote vehicle starting system for providing tachometric information. The apparatus includes an antenna disposed proximate to the engine compartment of the vehicle and adapted to pick up an RF signal generated by the firing of the spark plugs in the engine compartment. The apparatus also includes an RF detector having the antenna coupled to the input thereof and providing at its output a tachometer signal for coupling to a controller and providing a signal indicative of the running status of the vehicle engine and of the tach speed of the engine.

Abstract: A neutral safety switch (NSS) is described for use with a remote engine starting system. The NSS may be attached to each of an emergency brake on, door open, engine running and motion sensor. By sensing the state of the sensor inputs, the NSS determines that the emergency brake has been set, that the vehicle transmission is in neutral and that the driver and passengers have left the vehicle, and if these conditions are not met, disables the remote starting system. The NSS may be used with automatic or manual transmission vehicles.

Abstract: A tachometer apparatus of a remote vehicle starting system for providing tachometric information. The apparatus includes an antenna disposed proximate to the engine compartment of the vehicle and adapted to pick up an RF signal generated by the firing of the spark plugs in the engine compartment. The apparatus also includes an RF detector having the antenna coupled to the input thereof and providing at its output a tachometer signal for coupling to a controller and providing a signal indicative of the running status of the vehicle engine and of the tach speed of the engine.

Abstract: A remote starting device intended chiefly for use in cars that utilizes a pulse signal that is generated by either an RF transmitter, a keypad, or a telephone. The pulse signal is transmitted to a rotating drive attached to the subject ignition. When the device receives the pulse signal, the rotating drive rotates to activate the ignition of the car, thereby starting the engine. The remote starting device operates independently of the car's circuitry using only the car's battery, via the cigarette lighter, as a power source. There is no need to modify the car's electrical system to install the device. This greatly simplifies installation of the device and does not jeopardize any applicable warranty on the car.

Abstract: The utility of portable electric power generators is enhanced through wireless or hardwired remote controlled starting and stopping of the associated internal combustion engine. The safety of the remote controlled device is enhanced through the use of an audible warning emitted prior to starting of the internal combustion engine. The audible warning consists of a tonal pattern or recorded voice message, or both, to warn persons in close proximity that the engine of the generator system is about to start.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling an internal combustion engine having an electronic engine controller to automatically start the engine at a programmable day/date and time include determining a current day/date and time, comparing the current day/date and time to a day/date and time previously stored in the programmable memory for automatically starting the engine, determining whether current conditions are acceptable for automatically starting the engine, and controlling the engine to automatically start the engine beginning at the programmed day/date and time. In one embodiment, a remotely located computer transmits a signal to coordinate automatic starting of a plurality of engines, such as in a truck/bus fleet, or for construction equipment at a construction site. Security features are provided to reduce the possibility of unauthorized use/theft of a vehicle or other equipment after being automatically started.