Abstract: A safety fuel tank and filler cap apparatus is disclosed for use with a powered implement such as a lawnmower, tiller, weed trimmer or the like. The apparatus includes switch members mounted on the fuel cap and tank that disallow engine operation when the filler cap is separated from the tank such as during refueling.

Abstract: A fuel shutoff system that is usable on engines without a battery, and is inexpensive to manufacture. The fuel shutoff system operates without interfering with the engine governor, and effectively blocks the fuel flow downstream of the fuel bowl upon engine shutdown. The invention is a fuel shutoff system for an internal combustion engine, wherein the engine has a carburetor with a fuel bowl and a fuel nozzle, an intake valve, and a fuel conduit between the fuel bowl and the intake valve. The engine also includes a gas passageway through which a gas may pass to an intake valve of the engine. The engine has a throttle valve disposed in the passageway, and the blocking apparatus is distinct from the throttle valve. The invention includes a blocking member disposed in the gas passageway.

Abstract: A power switch operable to change between a conductive and non-conductive state for use with an ignition circuit of an internal combustion spark-ignited engine and adapted to be disposed between the output conductor of a high voltage generator or ignition coil and an ancillary system, such as an aftermarket ignition system, anti-theft system or speed control governor circuit. The power switch receives a high voltage pulse-type signal from the engine's original equipment high voltage generator or "coil" and connects the primary power source, such as a battery, to the auxiliary system. Power is supplied to the ancillary system in synchronization with the output signal from the high voltage coil. The power switch is particularly adapted to permit use of aftermarket ignition systems and other auxiliary circuits with original equipment ignition systems without interrupting the electrical connections or systems that rely on signals from the high voltage generator or coil of the original engine ignition system.

Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a control for an engine of a watercraft. The watercraft is preferably of the personal variety, and includes a water propulsion device which is driven by an output shaft of the engine. The engine has at least one combustion chamber, an intake system providing air to the combustion chamber, a fuel system providing fuel to the combustion chamber for combustion therein, and an ignition system including at least one ignition element associated with the combustion chamber. The watercraft engine control is of the type which does not include a main switch, but is arranged to turn on electrical systems of the engine when the engine is started and shut them off when the engine is stopped. The control includes a lanyard switch having first and second positions. In a first position the lanyard switch permits power to flow to the ignition element and the electrically-powered engine features, such as a fuel delivery mechanism.

Abstract: Devices and methods for preventing pull away or drive away incidents. The preferred devices can be retrofitted to critical gas pipes on fuel trucks or gas tanker trucks. A version of my device can be readily employed with conventional automobiles. Through my system a vehicle engine cannot start or continue to ram until a proper disconnection is made from a fueling or refueling source. The preferred protection device comprises a rigid, frame having a base portion connected to a gas pipe with spaced apart clamps. An elongated arm pivotally extending from the frame terminates in a blocking plate. The blocking plate can be user-deflected to either block access to the gas connection, or to expose it. When disposed in the blocking position, the arm activates a spark-proof ignition switch, which enables the ignition circuit in the vehicle being fueled or loaded.

Abstract: An antitheft apparatus for a motor vehicle can allow operation of an internal combustion engine of a motor vehicle to be started notwithstanding of decision of discrepancy in an engine start enabling signal ascribable to transient error in communication between a code collating means and an engine start decision means. An identification code stored in an engine key (1) is read out upon every starting of operation of the motor vehicle to be collated with a preset identification code to thereby make decision as to whether or not both of the identification codes coincide with each other. Upon decision of coincidence, the identification code as read out is affixed with a rolling code which is updated every time the engine of the motor vehicle is operated, to thereby generate an engine start enabling signal. Means are provided for sending the engine start enabling signal and for generating the rolling code. The rolling code as generated is sent to the rolling code adding means (30b).

Abstract: A vehicle security system attached to a power source for controlling a vehicle ignition. The vehicle security system includes first and second normally closed switches connected in series along a first power line between the power supply and a distributor of the vehicle. The first switch is positioned within a cabin of the vehicle and the second switch is positioned with a trunk of the vehicle. A third normally open switch is connected along a second power line between the power supply and a trunk lock of the vehicle and positioned within the trunk of the vehicle. The first and second switches are operable between a first closed position connecting the power source to the distributor allowing the vehicle to be started and a second open position disconnecting the power source from the distributor and preventing the vehicle from starting.

Abstract: A positive off and automatic on ignition stop switch and electronic circuit for use in an internal combustion engine. The circuit that allows for normal operation of the engine in an unbiased state. When it is desired to turn the engine off, a stop switch is triggered which provides a single mechanism for shutting off the engine. After the switch is activated, the circuit holds the ignition circuit in an off state for a sufficient amount of time to allow the engine to completely stop operation. The circuit holds the engine in the off state for a period of time even after the switch is deactivated. As a result, the operator of a piece of equipment in which the present invention is utilized can activate a switch one time, which results in the engine coming to a complete stop, without the requirement of further activity.

Abstract: A tap-resistant security circuit. In the preferred embodiment, the apparatus includes a conduit including an electrically conductive wire surrounded by a gas-filled, gas impermeable sheath. At one end of the conduit is a pressure switch which is normally open but is maintained closed by the pressure in the gas-filled conduit. The other end of the conduit is sealed. If the gas-filled conduit is disturbed, for example, if an attempt is made to cut the wire, the gas within the conduit escapes, the pressure holding the switch closed drops and the circuit is opened. As a result, any attempt to by-pass or "tap" the wire results in the current through the wire being interrupted.

Abstract: An improved capacitive discharge ignition apparatus includes disable circuitry for permitting shut-off of the engine. The disable circuitry includes a SCR and a transistor in series to provide a bypass for current that would otherwise charge the ignition capacitor. The SCR is gated by a RC circuit charged by momentary contact of a user-actuated switch. The transistor is rendered conductive only during periods when a positive voltage is induced on the charge coil, thereby limiting discharge of the RC circuit. In addition, the RC circuit is regeneratively charged by a leakage current through the SCR gate. The disable circuitry thus achieves engine stoppage regardless of the time required.

Abstract: A four-cycle engine is provided which is suitable for use in a vehicle or an apparatus such as a small jet boat to be operated on the premise that it often overturns, and which is simple in structure. An oil pan 22 is disposed below the bottom of a crankcase 13, the spaces in the components are communicated with each other via a communicating hole 27 which is formed in the bottom of the crankcase 13, and a cylindrical peripheral wall 26 which is downwardly extending from the bottom of the crankcase 13 toward the oil pan 22 is formed around the communicating hole 27 and is spacially separated from the side wall of the oil pan 22 by a distance.

Abstract: An engine condition monitoring system includes a sensor for producing a sensor signal representing the oxygen content of the exhaust gas of a small internal combustion engine in a floor buffer fueled by propane or other form of natural gas. A micro-processor, operating in accordance with programming instructions stored in an EPROM, processes the received sensor signal, determines whether the engine is operating in one of four categories: normal, warning, idle and shut down, and generates an output signal indicative of the determined category. The output signal is used to provide a visual display of the engine's condition on red and green LEDs and/or shut down the engine by shorting the ignition circuit.

Abstract: A speed limiting circuit measures the speed of the engine through the use of a device that functions generally as a tachometer. A speed signal is provided and is a function of the frequency of a plurality of pulses provided by a pulse generator. The frequency of the plurality of signal pulses, in a preferred embodiment, is representative of the frequency of a plurality of voltage pulses provided by an ignition coil. Since the voltage pulses from the ignition coil are directly related to the speed of the engine, the speed signal from an integrator can be used as an accurate representation of the engine speed. This speed signal can then be differentiated to determine the acceleration of the engine. The speed signal and acceleration signal are combined by an adder and the combined signal that results is compared to a threshold magnitude.

Abstract: An engine operation control system for an engine having at least one variable volume combustion chamber with an ignition element corresponding thereto and an exhaust port for controlling the flow of exhaust from the chamber is disclosed. Upon detection of an engine overheat condition, the operation control system operates to advance the timing of the firing one or more of the ignition elements and misfiring these elements, whereby engine cooling is achieved without backfire.

Abstract: An engine shut down apparatus of an internal combustion engine having a magneto type ignition system comprises a magneto generator, a power source circuit, an engine stop switch, a fuel cut drive circuit, a fuel cut-off solenoid valve, an engine stop circuit and a fuel cut-off/ignition stop circuit. When the engine stop switch is turned on, in the fuel cut-off/ignition stop circuit, an engine stop instruction signal is sent to the fuel cut-off drive circuit and then the fuel cut-off solenoid valve is operated so as to close the fuel supply to the engine. On the other hand, in the fuel cut-off/ignition stop circuit, the engine stop instruction signal is sent to the engine stop circuit after a specified time has elapsed so as to operate the engine stop circuit with a time lag. Then, the engine stop circuit short-circuits the ignition system so as to stop ignition. Further, the fuel cut-off/ignition stop circuit is electrically separated with respect to electric noises from the ignition system.

Abstract: A safety device for vehicles for preventing accidental driving off with the vehicle from a fuel pump without first removing a fuel dispensing nozzle from the tank of the vehicle. When the fuel dispensing nozzle is in the spout of the tank, a solenoid valve is activated to disengage the ignition system and/or illuminate alarm lights and audible signals.

Abstract: A portable machine having a frame and an engine supported by the frame, the engine having a power source and an engine cutoff device connected to the engine. In combination with the machine is a machine diagnosis circuit comprised of at least one protective switch connected in series with the engine power source and the engine cutoff device. The circuit also includes a diagnosis indicator combination wired across each of the at least one protective switches, the diagnosis indicator combination is comprised of an LED pair and resistor. In order to provide an indication of a machine problem, an indicator panel is located along the outside of the machine. The panel overlays the LED pairs and includes at least one icon which is illuminated by the LED pair to provide an outside readable graphical indication of the existence and location of the machine problem.

Abstract: An inside case made of rubber is mounted in an outside case, a substrate integrally provided with an engine stop switch circuit and a switch electrode of an engine stop switch unit is assembled in the inside case, and its lower side is filled with curable insulating base material to be sealed. Further, a switch contact opposed to the switch electrode is formed of pressure sensitive conductive rubber, and a reversal spring is further interposed on the pressure sensitive conductive rubber. As a result, wirings are eliminated, a decrease in the size of the entire apparatus and simplification can be realized, and a metal contact is eliminated to improve durability.

Abstract: A method of controlling operation of a compressed natural gas vehicle as a function of a predetermined level of methane in the ambient. Vehicle ignition is turned off when a predetermined level of methane is sensed in the ambient.

Abstract: A engine shut-off switch including a generally V-shaped pipe that has a first pipe end and a second pipe end. The pipe has a mounting bracket that is attached. The mounting bracket is mounted to a fire wall of a vehicle. A solid ball is positioned within an interior surface area of the pipe. A pair of L-shaped holding pins are provided. Each pin has an interior end, an exterior end with a pin head and a bridge. The exterior end projects from the inner side wall of the pipe. The interior end is attached to the interior surface. Lastly, a pair of toggle switches are included and attached to an opposite outer side wall of the pipe. Each switch has a connecting wire. Each switch has a bias spring-like lever that is attached to the inner surface of the outer wall. Each lever has a projecting member that is capable of movement between the inner surface of the pipe and the switch. The projecting member turns the switch off by pressing against a switch arm of the toggle switch, when the vehicle rolls on a side.

Abstract: This invention relates to an anti-theft device for an engine-driven vehicle having a control unit for controlling either of the supply of fuel to an engine and the ignition timing of this fuel, and a back-up mechanism acting for the control unit when the control unit is damaged. It is determined whether or not the control unit has functioned appropriately when the engine is started up, and if it is determined that it has not, the function of the back-up mechanism is prohibited. Hence, the engine will not start and theft of the vehicle is prevented even if, for example, the control unit is deliberately damaged and an attempt is made to start the engine. However, the back-up mechanism does function if the control unit develops a fault while the vehicle is running, and the vehicle therefore continues to run.

Abstract: An antitheft device for a vehicle such as a motorcycle or an automobile for preventing theft of the vehicle by controlling the ignition system of the vehicle. The antitheft device includes a power supply, an ignition device for starting the vehicle's engine, an ignition switch having a switch mechanism for opening and closing a power circuit between the power supply and ignition device and an antitheft unit. The ignition switch includes a mechanical locking mechanism for selectively preventing the normal steering operation of the vehicle as well as sensors for detecting the removal or destruction of the switch mechanism or the mechanical locking mechanism. The antitheft unit causes a first disablement condition in response to an input signal where at least a part of the ignition device is disabled and causes a second disablement condition in response to the detection of an abnormality by the sensors where at least a part of the ignition device is disabled.

Abstract: A protruding part is provided on the outer periphery of a recoil drum and a movable member is provided to move conjointly with a slide switch S used for starting and stopping an internal combustion engine equipped with an electric spark ignition system. The protruding part contacts the movable member only when the slide switch S is moved toward the OFF-state position. A warning signal generating means is provided and is actuated when the movable member 11 contacts with the protruded part 3a.

Abstract: An electronic ignition system replacing corresponding stock circuitry but utilizing the stock magneto and ignition coil provided with the engine of a sport vehicle, such as a jet ski or snowmobile, to provide improved performance. A timing circuit is provided as part of the ignition circuitry to enable a trigger pulse of a predetermined duration to be delivered to the ignition coil and further, to inhibit subsequent trigger pulses limiting the engine speed below a determined rpm limit. The timing circuitry uses an over-temperature switch connecting a capacitance to lengthen the inhibit time period reducing the maximum rpm limit. A holeshot switch connected across the over-temperature switch lowers the rpm limit while the throttle is held in the full speed position. Compensated pickup circuitry, automatic battery connect/disconnect, low impedance kill switch circuitry and an impedance protected tachometer output is provided to enhance the performance and features of the ignition systems of sport vehicles.

Abstract: A system is provided for use with an automotive vehicle having a normally disabled ignition system. Each driver license is encoded with indicia, such as a magnetic strip, indicative of the identity of the driver. This driver's license is inserted into a reader container in the vehicle which then generates an identification signal representative of the identity of the driver's license. A microprocessor then compares the identification signal from the driver's license with prerecorded computer memory representative of the authorized driver(s) for the vehicle. When the driver's license identification signal matches the stored data in memory, the microprocessor generates an output signal which enables the vehicle ignition system. Alternatively, when the driver's license identification signal does not match the stored data, a radio transmitter transmits the driver's license identification signal to a central station which compares this signal against stored data representative of a plurality of different drivers.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an automatic starting and stopping apparatus for an engine, which prolongs the lives of mechanical components such as a starter motor and which is applicable also to automatic vehicles. The automatic starting and stopping apparatus for an engine comprises a vehicle-to-vehicle distance sensor 29, which detects whether the distance from the preceding vehicle is less than a preset value, a signal color identifying and detecting device 30, which identifies whether the lit color of the signal is yellow or red, a car speed sensor 15, and a control circuit 31, which performs automatic start and stop of the engine in accordance with the detection results of the vehicle-to-vehicle distance sensor 29 and the signal color identifying and detecting apparatus 30.

Abstract: An engine operational control unit for an internal combustion engine which protects an engine in the event of abnormal condition of the throttle mechanisms by discontinuing operation of the ignition or the ignition and fuel injection dependent upon engine speed. In this way, the engine is protected from overheating if operating at a high speed, and from wetting or fouling of the spark plugs if operating at a lower speed, if abnormal conditions prevail.

Abstract: A vaporized fuel injection system for an internal combustion engine includes a housing adapted to be mounted on the engine and having a vaporizer heat shell therein connected to the engine for receiving hot exhaust gases. Air is compressed by means of compressor blades mounted at the tips of the conventional fan blades for the engine. The compressor blades travel in a shroud whereby the air is compressed and supplied to the housing where it passes over the vaporizer heat shell. A fuel vaporization chamber is formed directly on the heat shell and liquid fuel is injected directly onto the heated shell for vaporizing the fuel. When the engine is cold, the liquid fuel may be injected directly onto glow plugs disposed in communication with the chamber.

Abstract: A control system for a multiple cylinder, direct fuel injected, spark ignited, internal combustion engine that protects the fuel injectors by precluding the possibility of firing of the spark plugs at a time when a fuel injector is open and if the kill switch has been turned on. The control circuit precludes the disabling of the ignition circuits until all fuel injectors of the engine are in their closed positions.

Abstract: In a fuel supply system for a motor vehicle wherein a solenoid valve is interposed in an air breather pipe by which fuel vaporized in a fuel tank is introduced into a canister, and the solenoid valve is opened by an ON signal of a fuel flap switch which turns ON when a fuel flap is opened, so as to bring the air breather pipe into communication from the fuel tank to the canister, thereby permitting the fuel tank to be fueled; a safety circuit for a fuel supply system of a motor vehicle comprising the fact that a solenoid valve driving circuit which extends from a power source to an earth through the fuel flap switch as well as the solenoid valve is provided with a first relay of normally-closed type to turn OFF in an ON state of a boost switch which turns ON when a stop of an engine is detected in an ON state of an ignition key switch, and that an ignition coil driving circuit which extends from the power source to the earth through the ignition key switch as well as an ignition coil is provided with a second

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method for operating control apparatus during delayed shutoff after switching off the ignition of an internal combustion engine. This method protects the battery as far as possible and for this method, three principles are applied individually or in any desired combination but preferably all together. The first principle provides that the delayed-shutoff functions are no longer carried out, as has been conventional, until a fixed pregiven time duration is reached; instead, the functions are either interrupted when values of special variables reach a fixed pregiven threshold or a threshold fixed in dependence upon operating variables in advance of switch-off of the engine is reached.

Abstract: Apparatus for monitoring an engine of a vehicle having an ignition switch operable between on and off positions, a vehicle power supply, and an electrical load, including the engine, selectively connectable to the vehicle power supply via the ignition switch. A controllable switching device is disposed between the vehicle power supply and the ignition switch. A timer accumulates time when the ignition switch is in the on position and the vehicle is stationary. If the timer reaches a predetermined time value the controllable switching device is actuated to disconnect the vehicle power supply from the ignition switch, to turn off the engine, if running, as well as disconnecting the electrical load energized via the ignition switch, limiting engine idle time, reducing engine wear and emissions, and terminating any drain on the vehicle power supply in the event the engine is not running.

Abstract: The invention relates to an operating-mode position selector arrangement for an internal combustion engine in a portable handheld tool such as a motor-driven chain saw. The engine includes an electrical ignition system and is supplied with a fuel mixture by a carburetor. In a start position of the operating-mode position selector, the position selector holds the choke flap and the throttle flap of the carburetor in pregiven start positions. In an operating position of the operating-mode position selector, the throttle flap is released for actuation via a throttle lever and the choke flap is fully opened. In a stop position of the operating-mode position selector, an electric contact is closed between a terminal of the electric ignition system and ground. The different positions of the operating-mode position selector are detected electrically.

Abstract: This invention teaches a system for interrupting operation of the internal combustion engine of a vehicle so as to prevent an undesirably high level of carbon monoxide in the ambient by using the voltage output signal from an engine oxygen sensor placed in the exhaust stream. Engine operation is interrupted when there are simultaneous signals indicating both an EGO sensor signal level above a predetermined value and idling condition of the engine.

Abstract: This invention teaches a system for interrupting operation of the internal combustion engine of a vehicle so as to prevent an undesirably high level of carbon monoxide in the ambient. Engine operation is interrupted when there are simultaneous signals indicating a carbon monoxide level above a predetermined value and and idling condition of the engine.

Abstract: This invention teaches a system for interrupting operation of the internal combustion engine of a vehicle so as to prevent an undesirably high level of carbon monoxide which would cause a low level of oxygen in the ambient. Engine operation is interrupted when there are simultaneous signals indicating an oxygen level below a predetermined value and an idling condition of the engine.

Abstract: A switch for controlling the operation of a motor boat comprises a cylinder and a key. The key includes a grippable knob and a detachable key actuator which engages a key-receiving member in the cylinder. The knob is turned from a first stable angular orientation (that is, an off-position) to a second stable angular orientation (that is, an on-position) to operate the motor. The knob is also coupled by means of a lanyard to the operator. If the operator falls overboard, the knob will separate from the key actuator and springs located inside the cylinder return the switch to the off-position. The switch also permits the a choke signal to be sent to the motor by pressing inwardly on the knob.

Abstract: A safety circuit coupled to an ignition circuit and a magneto coil for disabling an engine that powers a riding lawn mower. The circuit includes a triac which is rendered conductive in response to a sensed unsafe condition. The triac turns on to short the magneto coil and prevent generation of a spark plug energization voltage. A capacitor coupled to the triac gate electrode charges in the event an unsafe condition is sensed and is prevented from charging when operating conditions are safe.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a method and an arrangement for detecting measured values in combination with an engine control system for motor vehicles. The position of an adjusting device is determined on the basis of stored extreme values of this position and the detected positioning signal. The stored extreme values are corrected or learned anew at the end of an operating cycle of the motor vehicle after the engine is switched off.

Abstract: An improved warning system for a marine propulsion unit that includes a starter, a starter switch, an ignition circuit having a kill switch for disabling the ignition circuit, a warning device and an abnormal operating condition sensor. The warning device is in circuit with the abnormal engine condition sensor and the device for sensing an attempt to start the engine with the kill switch enabled so that the single warning device will indicate either of the conditions.

Abstract: The microprocessor-based speed limiter compares a speed value functionally related to the actual speed of the engine with a stored reference value and generates a limit signal to ground the ignition pulses if the speed value is greater than or equal to the reference value. The ignition pulses are preferably grounded for a preselected number of engine revolutions, after which another comparison is made to determine whether the actual engine speed is below the maximum limit speed. Both the stored reference value and the preselected number of engine revolutions may be changed.

Abstract: A spark ignition safety circuit and starting circuit having grounding of the primary winding through safety switches and preferably also through the ignition switch. The primary winding of the ignition circuit is grounded through closed safety switches which are in series with the ignition switch.

Abstract: An anti-after-burning system in an internal combustion engine provided with a governor device, in which a governor spring is stretched between a governor lever and a governor control lever and the governor lever is connected to a carburetor throttle lever, and a stoppage device for stopping an engine by grounding a primary wire of an ignition circuit, is improved. The governor control lever is provided with a grounding section for grounding the primary wire of the ignition circuit as a result of the rotation of the lever to an engine stoppage position. The governor lever and one end of the governor spring are connected so as to be relatively rotatable and so as to have a freedom of movement with respect to the axial direction of the governor spring.

Abstract: A hydrogen engine system comprises an engine, a metal hydride container connected with the engine and providing the engine with hydrogen, a heat intermedium providing mechanism connected with the hydrogen occluding alloy container and providing the metal hydride container with heat intermedium, a first control mechanism connected with the heat intermedium providing mechanism and controlling the heat intermedium providing mechanism so that the temperature of the heat intermedium supplied to the metal hydride container be kept at a constant value, and a second control mechanism connected with the heat intermedium providing mechanism between the first control mechanism and the metal hydride container and controlling the amount of the heat intermedium supplied from the heat intermedium providing mechanism to the metal hydride container.

Abstract: An engine shut-down device is shown for an engine, having a magneto for generating an a.c. voltage in response to a speed of the engine, an ignition coil provided to ignite the engine, a driver responsive to the a.c. voltage for driving the ignition coil, and generator for generating an engine-stop signal. The device includes a trigger responsive to the engine-stop signal for flowing a forward current from magneto to a ground when the magneto produces a positive value of the a.c. voltage and a backward current for a predetermined period of time from the ground to the magneto when the magneto produces a negative value of the a.c. voltage, an engine-stop section responsive to the backward current for flowing a short-circuit current from ground to the magneto to disoperate the ignition coil, so as to stop the engine.

Abstract: Two embodiments of arrangements for precluding the discharge of fuel to an engine when its kill switch is enabled and the starter is operated. One embodiment relates to a fuel injected system and the other embodiment relates to a carbureted system.

Abstract: A safety system against engine overturning contains an inclination sensor for detecting an engine inclination and transmitting a signal representing the engine inclination and a self-hold device operatively connected to the inclination sensor. The self-hold device determines an inclined condition of the engine in response to the signal from the inclination sensor and transmits and holds an engine stopping signal in a case where the detected engine inclination exceeds a preliminarily set allowable inclination. The operation of the engine is stopped in response to the engine stopping signal from the self-hold device. The driving condition of the engine and a fuel pump are determined and controlled by driving condition determining device serving to drive the fuel pump when an engine speed exceeds a preliminarily set reference value while to stop the fuel pump when the engine stopping signal is transmitted from the self-hold device.

Abstract: A snowmobile electrical system having a battery conservation circuit. The system is designed to conserve battery power after deactivation of the engine using the kill switch, even if the key switch is left on. Battery power is normally consumed by continued connection of the microprocessor-based electronic engine control unit (ECU) to the battery after kill switch activation. To prevent battery consumption, the ECU monitors the electrical output of the ignition system at a position within the system wherein the output is dependent on engine speed. If the output drops to a specified level, a signal generator in the ECU is activated. Signals from the signal generator are directed to a solid state switching system which disconnects the battery from the ECU. As a result, battery consumption is controlled.

Abstract: An ignition-powered engine shut-off circuit is provided for power-driven apparatus such as lawn mowers, pumps, generators, tractors and the like. The shut-off circuit preferably includes a first switch, such as a low oil or toggle switch, which is activated when a particular condition exists. The circuit also includes an electronic switch that is subject to the control of a switch control means. When the first switch senses that a particular condition exists, the switch control means gates on the electronic switch, grounding the ignition pulses and shutting off the engine. The first switch is preferably a reed switch used to sense low oil levels, and the electronic switch is preferably a high-power SCR or other thyristor. An indicator means consisting of an LED and a shunt resistor indicates that the ignition pulses are being grounded.

Abstract: A snowmobile electrical system having a battery conservation circuit. The system is designed to conserve battery power after deactivation of the engine using the kill switch, even if the key switch is left on. Battery power is normally consumed by continued connection of the microprocessor-based electronic engine control unit (ECU) to the battery after kill switch activation. To prevent battery consumption, the ECU monitors the electrical output of the ignition system at a position within the system wherein the output is dependent on engine speed. If the output drops to a specified level, a signal generator in the ECU is activated. Signals from the signal generator are directed to a solid state switching system which disconnects the battery from the ECU. As a result, battery consumption is controlled.