Abstract: An autonomous mobile robot includes a chassis, a drive supporting the chassis above a floor surface in a home and configured to move the chassis across the floor surface, a variable height member being coupled to the chassis and being vertically extendible, a camera supported by the variable height member, and a controller. The controller is configured to operate the drive to navigate the robot to locations within the home and to adjust a height of the variable height member upon reaching a first of the locations. The controller is also configured to, while the variable height member is at the adjusted height, operate the camera to capture digital imagery of the home at the first of the locations.

Abstract: A system detects tampering of an electronic system of a vehicle operated by a driver. The system receives historical occurrences of at least one diagnostic trouble code (DTC) generated by the onboard vehicle computing system based on sensor data received from a vehicle sensor during a trip. The system identifies a length of the trip and a speed of the vehicle when each DTC was generated. The system identifies a distance the vehicle had traveled when each DTC was generated. The system determines a subsequent trip was started, whether a driver operating the vehicle on the subsequent trip is a same driver or a new driver, whether DTCs were generated during the trip, and whether DTCs were generated during the subsequent trip. The system determines a tamper rating for the driver that indicates a likelihood that the driver has tampered with the vehicle.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for preventing a restricted individual from operating a motor vehicle. The system monitors a speed of the individual via a smart device associated with the individual. The system activates a monitoring function based on a detected speed of the device, which may evidence the individual riding in a motor vehicle. The system them verifies that the user of the device is the restricted individual through a variety of different identification methods. Once identified, the system accesses various data sources associated with one or more ride applications running on the smart device in order to determine whether the restricted individual has requested a ride from a third party during a relevant time period. After analyzing the data, a determination is made as to whether the individual is driving, or whether more information is needed.

Abstract: A system and method are disclosed for preventing a restricted individual from operating a motor vehicle. The system monitors a speed of the individual via a smart device associated with the individual. The system activates a monitoring function based on a detected speed of the device, which may evidence the individual riding in a motor vehicle. The system them verifies that the user of the device is the restricted individual through a variety of different identification methods. Once identified, the system accesses various data sources associated with one or more ride applications running on the smart device in order to determine whether the restricted individual has requested a ride from a third party during a relevant time period. After analyzing the data, a determination is made as to whether the individual is driving, or whether more information is needed.

Abstract: A motor vehicle door lock apparatus includes a meshing mechanism with a striker, a control unit authenticating a transmitter and switching an operation of an outside electric operation element to be enabled and disabled, a locking and unlocking mechanism being switched to an unlocking state where a meshing of the meshing mechanism can be released and a locking state where the meshing cannot be released by an operation of an inside mechanical operation element or a driving of a locking and unlocking motor, and an electric releasing mechanism releasing the meshing by a driving of a releasing motor to activate a releasing operation based on a valid operation of the outside electric operation element, and after a predetermined length of time has elapsed since collision detecting means detect a collision of the motor vehicle, the control unit drives the locking and unlocking motor to activate an unlocking operation.

Abstract: A motor vehicle door lock apparatus includes a meshing mechanism with a striker, a control unit authenticating a transmitter and switching an operation of an outside electric operation element to be enabled and disabled, a locking and unlocking mechanism being switched to an unlocking state where a meshing of the meshing mechanism can be released and a locking state where the meshing cannot be released by an operation of an inside mechanical operation element or a driving of a locking and unlocking motor, and an electric releasing mechanism releasing the meshing by a driving of a releasing motor to activate a releasing operation based on a valid operation of the outside electric operation element, and after a predetermined length of time has elapsed since collision detecting means detect a collision of the motor vehicle, the control unit drives the locking and unlocking motor to activate an unlocking operation.

Abstract: A generator set for a transport refrigeration unit that is operable at a first frequency and a second frequency. The generator set includes a generator and a prime mover. The generator set is controlled by an electronic control unit (ECU) that is coupled to a controller. The ECU is configured to monitor the engine operation condition to obtain an engine operation condition value; whereas the controller is configured to receive the engine operation condition value and compare the value with an engine operation condition threshold. When the engine operation condition value, for example, exceeds the engine operation condition threshold, the controller instructs the ECU to operate the engine at a first speed; and when the engine operation condition value, for example, is below the engine operation condition threshold, the controller instructs the ECU to operate the engine at a second speed that is slower than the first speed.

Abstract: An appliance includes a position switch retention device for use with an appliance including a body defining a generally cylindrical profile extending through a first portion thereof along an axis and having a first radius. The body further defines a pin-receiving channel open on at least a first end thereof and positioned within the generally cylindrical profile. The device further includes a first tab extending from a side of the body. The tab defines a ramp and an edge with the ramp extending away from the first end of the body to the edge. A cap extends outwardly from a second end of the body opposite the first end. The cap is spaced apart from the edge of the tab at a first distance and has a second radius greater than the first radius.

Abstract: A motor vehicle theft protection and disablement system that is safe, not easy to circumvent, and offers benefits to vehicle owners as an incentive for their participation. The system is for preventing vehicle theft and carjacking. The system comprises five elements, a motor vehicle, a programmable safety switch, a keypad transmitter, an automatic security switch, and at least one remote activation transmitter.

Abstract: A method and system for managing passenger and vehicle safety is disclosed. The method includes registering a passenger based on an identification parameter received from the passenger when the passenger boards a vehicle. The method further includes monitoring a set of vehicle status parameters associated with the vehicle in real time. The method also includes generating a notification when a predefined notification condition occurs. The predefined notification condition is associated with at least one of the vehicle status parameters and the identification parameter. The method further includes deregistering the passenger based on the identification parameter when the passenger exits the vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle navigation aid (nav-aid) system and method are provided to un-lock nav-aid functions in a moving vehicle. Sensors within the vehicle provide vehicle speed S and whether a person other the driver is present. For S greater than predetermined threshold speed Sth?0, the nav-aid system remains in a locked-out state if a passenger is not present. When a passenger is present, then the system may accept some otherwise locked-out nav-aid requests. A warning and disclaimer message requiring positive acknowledgement thereof is desirable. In a preferred embodiment, the passenger should occupy a front seat and have a weight or size or both exceeding a predetermined (e.g., “adult”) threshold. Desirably, navigation aid access is precluded for S>Sth unless the occupied seat belts are latched. In a further embodiment, a user access status display indicates which nav-aid functions can be accessed depending on the vehicle status.

Abstract: In a vehicle-to-vehicle communication network utilizing PKI security methods to protect communications and in which the PKI encryption utilizes a Certificate Authority having both a private key and a publicly distributed key, a method for allocating multiple certificates for each vehicle which are assigned to each vehicle in the communication network. The method includes the step of assigning a unique secret key k to each vehicle in the communication network. The Certificate Authority then creates a plurality of public key and private key encryption pairs for each vehicle and each encryption pair is associated with an index i. A plurality of certificates are then created with one certificate for each value of the index. A revocation list comprising the secret keys is maintained by the Certificate Authority so that all encryption pairs assigned to a particular vehicle may be revoked by the secret key k corresponding to that vehicle.

Abstract: A construction machine capable of increasing a frictional force and an acceleration performance without causing unwanted slip and an excessive load to a transmission by a driving force. The construction machine comprises a first mode to set the maximum output of an engine to a prescribed output, a second mode to limit the maximum output of the engine to an output lower than the prescribed output and a mode selector switch used for a operator to select from the plurality of modes. The construction machine also comprises control means that controls the machine to operate in the second mode regardless of the mode selected by the mode selector switch when a vehicle speed is equal to or less than a prescribed speed and the opening of an accelerator is equal to or more than a prescribed opening.

Abstract: Weight sensor for determining the weight of an occupant of a seat including a bladder arranged in a seat portion of the seat and including material or structure in an interior thereof which constrains fluid flow therein and one or more transducers for measuring the pressure of the fluid in the bladder. The material or structure might be open cell foam. The bladder may include one or more chambers, and if more than one chamber is formed, each chamber can be arranged at a different location in the seat portion of the seat.

Abstract: An installation and maintenance method for maintaining a control module for remote starter and alarm system for vehicles includes the steps of plugging in a signal converter onto the control module, establishing an electronic connection between the control module and a first information processing device, obtaining a control information for the control module, and applying the control information on the control module. The signal converter includes a serial to wireless converter and the first information processing device includes a personal digital assistant (PDA). The method can further includes the steps of establishing a connection between the first information processing device and a second information processing device through a communication network and downloading an information from the second information processing device. A remote installation and maintenance system includes an information processing device, a communication network, and a server.

Abstract: A vehicle cruise control system comprises a plurality of pre-set cruise control speed buttons and cruise control logic circuitry coupled to the pre-set cruise control speed buttons. Each one of the pre-set cruise control speed buttons corresponds to a respective pre-set cruise control speed. The cruise control logic circuitry is configured for implementing control of a vehicle speed to maintain the respective pre-set cruise control speed corresponding to a selected one of said pre-set cruise control speed buttons.

Abstract: A working vehicle is provided for improving safety and work efficiency by changing a travel speed limit appropriately depending on forms and conditions of work. The working vehicle is driven with an engine, and a working machine such as a working pump is mounted on the vehicle. Fuel supplied to the engine is regulated by an injector. Travel speeds of the working vehicle are detected with a vehicle speed sensor. A control unit is provided with a high speed travel mode which limits vehicle speed at or below a predetermined high speed limit and a low speed travel mode which limits vehicle speed at or below a low speed limit which is set below the high speed limit. In this way, either the high speed travel mode or the low speed travel mode is set according to a changeover signal from a travel mode changeover switch.

Abstract: A remotely operable vehicle disabling system for terminating operation of a vehicle. The system has a remotely operable transmit unit for transmitting a command shutdown message to a command-receiver vehicle unit in a vehicle. The vehicle unit is in communication with at least one operational component and capable of shutting down that component to thereby terminate vehicle operation. The transmit unit can initially transmit a query message prior to the shutdown message to confirm vehicle identity or to confirm the presence of the vehicle disabling system. Correspondingly, the vehicle unit is capable of receiving both the query message and the shutdown message and of responding to the query message, with all such communication activities preferably being encoded with a continuously changing key. The disabling system provides a safe and efficient manner for law enforcement personnel to apprehend criminals attempting to escape in vehicles.

Abstract: A multifunction vehicle security system, which includes a receiver connected to a control unit which processes received information and enables various functions. The user can increase or decrease the sensitivity of the system sensor, by merely pressing a button on the remote control to increase the sensor sensitivity, and another button to decrease the sensitivity. A special programming mode resets the system programmable features and values to factory settings, to quickly re-establish to a known state all or only preselected features. The system provides automatic silencing during night conditions of the system's arming/disarming chirping to confirm the change of system state. The security system generates a door unlocking command to the vehicle's power door locking system to unlock the doors in the event of a vehicle collision. A theft warning LED energy management system conserves battery power when the vehicle is left unattended for long periods of time.

Abstract: A system and method for detecting tampering with a vehicle speed sensor input signal include determining a current gear ratio, comparing the current gear ratio to at least one reference gear ratio to determine a gear ratio difference value, and generating an error signal indicating tampering with the vehicle speed sensor signal when the gear ratio difference value exceeds a first threshold. In one embodiment the step of generating an error signal is performed only when the gear ratio difference value exceeds the first threshold for an elapsed time greater than a predetermined time period. One embodiment includes determining a current engine speed, current vehicle speed, and current transmission gear ratio and storing values for the current engine speed, vehicle speed, and transmission gear ratio in the memory whenever at least one predetermined criterion is satisfied.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for protecting against unauthorized use of a vehicle which has bidirectional communication with a master station, whereby it is possible not only to transmit exclusively a position message of the vehicle to the master station or to transmit exclusively enabling signals to the vehicle from the master station, but also to make the communication appropriate to requirements. The necessary transmission of information is substantially reduced in that the enabling signal is broadcast only when requested by the vehicle. On the other hand, it is still not possible for the enabling to be carried out at the vehicle end only.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system for detecting the tampering of the vehicle speed signal in a vehicle having electronic engine control. An algorithm that forms part of the present invention is operable to detect a tampering mode producing a constant transmission out-of-gear signal to the vehicle speed sensor input of the electronic controller, and tampering mode disallowing the electronic controller from acting upon a vehicle owner or manager-programmed top gear ratio, or maximum vehicle speed limit. In response to detecting a possible vehicle speed signal tampering condition, a vehicle speed signal tampering fault code is logged into a memory portion of the controller, a vehicle operator warning lamp is activated and the engine speed is electronically controlled to a vehicle owner/manager programmable maximum engine speed limit. The system is operable with a number of transmission embodiments including manual and automatic types intended for either on or on/off highway applications.

Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft system is remotely operable and includes a pump fluidically connecting a reservoir of hydraulic fluid to a hydraulic cylinder of a vehicle braking system. The system further includes a pump control circuit that operates the pump to pump fluid into the braking system hydraulic cylinder to lock the vehicle brakes and to stop the pump as soon as the pressure in the braking system reaches a predetermined value. In one form of the system, operation of a remotely controlled switch deactivates the system and re-orients a valving system so operation of the pump drains the braking system by moving hydraulic fluid from the braking system back into the fluid reservoir. The pump control circuit stops the pump when pressure in the braking system drops to a predetermined level, and can include a timer to automatically stop the pump after a predetermined time of draining operation whereby the drainings does not deprive the braking system of sufficient fluid to operate in a normal manner.

Abstract: A car security system has a proximity sensor such as a radar sensor with variable sensitivity and capable of producing a detection signal upon detecting motion of a person in a monitoring area. A control circuit is provided controls the sensitivity of said proximity sensor. The system also has a monitoring/alarming control circuit for control of predetermined monitoring and alarming control on the basis of the output from the proximity sensor, and alarming devices such as a headlight flash circuit, buzzer and siren for performing a predetermined alarming operation under the control of the monitoring/alarming control circuit. The sensitivity control circuit operates in response to a predetermined operation such as an arming start operation to vary the sensitivity of the proximity sensor so as to automatically set the sensitivity to a first sensitivity level which is the highest level within a range which does not cause the sensor to produce the detection output.

Abstract: A circuit for detecting the occurrence of an event and for providing an output signal upon the detection of the event includes a sensor for detecting the occurrence of the event. A programmable voltage source is interconnected to the sensor for generating the output signal of a predetermined voltage value. The predetermined voltage value is generated by the programmable voltage source when the programmable voltage source is activated by the sensor. Circuitry is interconnected to the programmable voltage source for preventing identification of the preselected voltage value when the programmable voltage source is not activated by the sensor.

Abstract: A fuel cut-off anti-theft device for a vehicle having a fuel control valve (1) for mounting in a vehicle fuel line (2), and a control device for operating the valve (1) including a local control device (10) formed by an electronic circuit (15) mounted to the valve body and a remote keypad (12) through which the user inputs a coded sequence of input signals to operate the valve (1). The electronic circuit (15) and the body of the valve are encapsulated in an epoxy resin compound to prevent tampering with the valve body and/or circuit (15).

Abstract: A car theft proofing system includes a sensor disposed in a cylinder lock for detecting insertion into the cylinder lock of a door key or other article, an alarm device for giving an alarm, an alarm drive device for driving the alarm device, a control unit for causing the alarm device to give the alarm in response to signals received from the sensor and the alarm drive device, and a radio transmitter for transmitting a radio wave upon insertion of the article. The alarm drive device includes a portable remote control transmitter and a receiver disposed on a car body. The remote control transmitter includes an abnormality alarm for transmitting a theft signal in response to the radio wave transmitted from the radio transmitter.

Abstract: A car theft proofing system includes a sensor attached to a door lock mechanism for detecting insertion into the door lock mechanism of a door key or other article, an alarm device for giving an alarm, an alarm drive device for driving the alarm device, a control unit for causing the alarm device to give the alarm in response to signals received from the sensor and the alarm drive device, and a radio transmitter for transmitting a radio wave upon insertion of the article. The alarm drive device includes a portable remote control transmitter and a receiver disposed on a car body. The remote control transmitter includes an abnormally alarm for transmitting a theft signal in response to the radio wave transmitted from the radio transmitter.

Abstract: A car theft proofing system includes a sensor a sensor disposed adjacent a cylinder lock for detecting insertion into the cylinder lock of a door key or other article, an alarm device for giving an alarm, an alarm drive device for driving the alarm device, a control unit for causing the alarm device to give the alarm in response to signals received from the sensor and the alarm drive device, and a radio transmitter for transmitting a radio wave upon insertion of the article. The alarm drive device includes a portable remote control transmitter and a receiver disposed on a car body. The remote control transmitter includes an abnormality alarm for transmitting a theft signal in response to the radio wave transmitted from the radio transmitter.

Abstract: A car theft proofing system includes a sensor attached to or mounted adjacent a cylinder door lock for detecting insertion into the door lock of a door key or other article, an alarm device for giving an alarm, an alarm drive device for driving the alarm device, and a control unit for causing the alarm device to give the alarm in response to signals received from the sensor and the alarm drive device.

Abstract: A car theft proofing system includes a sensor attached to or mounted adjacent a cylinder door lock for detecting insertion into the door lock of a door key or other article, an alarm device for giving an alarm, an alarm drive device for driving the alarm device, a control unit for causing the alarm device to give the alarm in response to signals received from the sensor and the alarm drive device, and a radio transmitter for transmitting a radio wave upon insertion of the article. The alarm drive device includes a portable remote control transmitter and a receiver disposed on a car body. The remote control transmitter includes an abnormality alarm for transmitting a theft signal in response to the radio wave transmitted from the radio transmitter.

Abstract: An intermediate governor system is provided that restricts fuel supply in response to road speed. The system is programmable by the owner to an intermediate road speed that the truck cannot exceed in lower gears and a top road speed that can be achieved in the highest gear. The road speed is sensed and compared to a threshold value in the intermediate governor system. When the road speed exceeds the threshold value, the fuel delivered to the engine is restricted by the intermediate governor in order to prevent the engine from exceeding a predetermined engine speed. As the truck driver shifts the gears upward higher road speeds are attained at the same engine speed, the highest gear permitting the highest road speed.

Abstract: A computerized alarm system for an automobile, which is also capable of rendering the vehicle useless to anyone making a forced entry is disclosed. The invention includes a computer panel which is equipped with a keyboard for entering a secret code. The alarm system of the present invention further includes a voice synthesizer which verbally warns intruders not to take further action in an attempt to deter theft or vandalism.

Abstract: In a burglarproof system for an automotive vehicle, a door key cylinder arranged at a vehicle door includes a cylindrical body and a rotor accommodated therein. An acting section provided at the rotor extends radially from an axis thereof. A door key switch arranged in the vicinity of the door key cylinder detects the acting section to output a key-operation detection signal, when the rotor is angularly moved by turning operation of a key to bring a door locking mechanism to an unlocked position. A door lock switch detects in which one of the locked and unlocked positions the locking mechanism is. A stealing detector is provided for outputting a stealing detection signal when the stealing detector does not receive the key-operation detection signal from the door key switch, but receives the lock-releasing detection signal from the door lock switch. A burglarproof unit executes operation for a burglarproof in response to the stealing detection signal.

Abstract: An electronic lock and key includes an electronic key which produces a specific electric signal such as a frequency signal, photo signal or logic signal when inserted into the key holder of the lock; and an electronic lock which is comprised of a power source, a key holder, a lock signal generator, and a signal comparing circuit that compares the signal of said key and the signal of said lock signal generator.

Abstract: A protective signaling device for the prevention of theft of an automobile, which is arranged to generate an alarm only when the engine of the automobile is started without the use of its ignition key, i.e. without switching an ignition switch of the automobile on. The device includes a pickup capable of detecting a radio wave generated as an electrical noise when the engine is started and of generating a first detection signal upon detection of the radio wave, and a detector adapted for generating a second detection signal when the ignition switch is in the off position. Means is provided for allowing the actuation of an alarm only upon receipt of both of the first and second detection signals at the same time.

Abstract: A theft warning system for use in a vehicle, which issues a warning to protect vehicle contents when a vehicle door is opened without use of a door key. The theft warning condition is set only when all doors are closed while all the door lock devices are locked. The theft warning system generates a theft warning signal when the final open door is closed and locked without use of a door key and one of the door lock devices subsequently is unlocked without a door key.

Abstract: A digital circuit for the prohibition of operation of a motor vehicle by an intoxicated person may be fabricated by combining an ignition switch with an engine locking and unlocking means, timing means, sensing means and an indication means. The normal ignition circuit of a motor vehicle is interrupted by an engine locking and unlocking means. A timing signal is generated by the timing means in response to signals received from a clock and a sensing means which in turn is responsive to the performance of the operator in a motor ability test such as the ability to maintain a predetermined amount of steady pressure on a brake pedal. If the operator is successfully performing the test, an indication means produces a first cognizable signal which indicates a successful performance.