By Preventing Unauthorized Or Unintended Access Or Use Patents (Class 180/287)
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Patent number: 7802649Abstract: A steering lock device has a steering catch mechanism including a handlebar attached to a steering stem, and a locking arm attached to this handlebar and being equipped with a lock pin for engagement on the tip end portion thereof. The steering catch mechanism also includes a locking claw as an engaging portion that is engagable with the lock pin. The locking claw is usually biased in the unlocking direction. In this catch mechanism, the locking claw is disposed on a rotation track of the lock pin. Accordingly, when an external force is applied to the lock pin such that the lock pin is in contact with the locking claw of the catch mechanism, the locking claw is moved in the locking direction so that the locking claw can be engaged with the lock pin. Therefore, a steering-lock stand-by state is accomplished.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 2007Date of Patent: September 28, 2010Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takeshi Konno, Tadashi Onozuka, Yoshiaki Takeuchi
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Patent number: 7779954Abstract: A readily transportable and rapidly deployable vehicle immobilization device is provided. The exhaust of an internal combustion engine is obstructed, resulting in choking off and stopping of the engine. In an aspect, a plug is provided having an extension fixed to the plug for human grasping, and facilitating insertion into an end of a vehicle exhaust pipe. In an aspect the plug expands upon being heated and is adhesive to the exhaust pipe for at least partially sealing the exhaust pipe. In another aspect, a length of adhesive material is attached to the front of a pursuing vehicle and engages an end of an exhaust pipe of a fleeing vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2008Date of Patent: August 24, 2010Inventor: Jeffrey Wax
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Patent number: 7751946Abstract: In a remote control system, the remote control of a vehicle function is executed. The remote control system includes a control terminal and a cancellation device. The control terminal transmits a request for the remote control of the vehicle function to a vehicle. The cancellation device cancels the remote control of the vehicle function if the local control of the vehicle function is requested before the remote control of the vehicle function is executed according to the request for the remote control.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2006Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Naoki Taki, Atsushi Niwa
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Patent number: 7730991Abstract: A locking assembly is provided for installation on a saddle-type vehicle such as an ATV. The locking assembly has a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration and comprises a removable portion and a receptacle. The receptacle is configured to engage the removable portion. The locking assembly is configured to unlock and allow powering of the vehicle when the removable portion is engaged in the receptacle and to lock and prevent powering the vehicle when the removable portion is not engaged in the receptacle. The removable portion includes an actuator configured to select from a first operable engine condition and a second inoperable engine condition.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2007Date of Patent: June 8, 2010Assignee: Honda Motor Company, Ltd.Inventor: Jason William Grundey
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Patent number: 7714696Abstract: An apparatus is arranged for providing drive-off security in a motor vehicle environment through blocking one or more vehicle engine system sub-functions, such blocking is triggered by detecting an unauthorized system activation. A particular such sub-function facility comprises an on-off control circuit is used to control the functionality of a fuel pump arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: March 19, 2003Date of Patent: May 11, 2010Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Bernd Rumpf
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Patent number: 7702441Abstract: A safety logic for vehicle rollover detection systems comprising a main rollover detection logic and at least one protection device for the occupant or occupants of the vehicle, including a vehicle lateral acceleration sensor (11), which generates an output signal indicating a near rollover event, when a lateral acceleration of a vehicle exceeds the first predefined threshold value (15) or, when a lateral acceleration of vehicle exceeds the second predefined threshold value (16) that is lower than the first predefined threshold value (15) and simultaneously at least one additional safety logic activation signal is present (1, 1?, 1?, 1??).Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2005Date of Patent: April 20, 2010Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Mariusz Geborek, Aleksandra Urbanek, Daniel Sygnarowicz
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Publication number: 20100059303Abstract: The present invention concerns a self moving transport mean for partially disabled people and a method for using said transport mean in shopping centres or other specific public areas. The transport mean houses seats or wheel-chairs and gives the user the chance to access all the services of said areas thanks to proper drive systems, safety devices, and a simple and safe lifting device of a flat surface supporting the wheel-chair or the seat. The method of the invention provides a box for housing and recharging the transport means and the exchange of data between them and a central processing unit of the area apt to let the completely enjoying the services of the area and the mobility features of the transport means.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 26, 2007Publication date: March 11, 2010Applicant: MP S.r.L.Inventor: Marco Paolacci
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Patent number: 7673717Abstract: An anti-theft device includes a first steering column, a second steering column, a clutch and an actuating unit. The first steering column is connected to a steering wheel. The second steering column is connected to a universal joint. The actuating unit moves the clutch between a first position for connecting the first steering column to the second steering column and a second position for disconnecting the first steering column from the second steering column.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 2007Date of Patent: March 9, 2010Inventor: Jian-Jhong Fong
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Publication number: 20090322146Abstract: A lockable hydraulic power-assisted steering system for steering one or more wheels of a vehicle, the system comprising: a hydraulic pump (1) having an inlet (2) and an outlet (3); a hydraulic reservoir (4) having an inlet (5) and an outlet (6); said pump inlet (2) being connected to the reservoir outlet (6); a hydraulic power steering housing (7a), the steering housing being operable by means of a steering wheel and the steering housing having an inlet port (8) and an outlet port (9); a hydraulic circuit, including: a pressure conduit connecting the pump outlet (3) to the steering housing inlet port (8), a return conduit connecting the steering housing outlet port to the reservoir inlet (5), a user operable lock valve (10) which selectively allows to connect and disconnect the steering housing inlet port (8) from the pump outlet (3) and/or to connect and disconnect the steering housing outlet port (9) from the reservoir inlet (5), characterized in that at the inlet port (8) of the hydraulic power steering hoType: ApplicationFiled: June 5, 2007Publication date: December 31, 2009Applicant: LOCK-VISION LTD.Inventor: David Raban
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Patent number: 7635044Abstract: A safety device for a motorcycle gear lever includes a gear lever and a mounting member. The gear lever has a base member, a pivoting member mounted pivotally on the base member and a foot post. The foot post is mounted on the pivoting member and has an annular groove. The mounting member is disposed adjacent to the gear lever and has a mounting hole and a key lock having a locking member. When the pivoting member pivots, the foot post is mounted in the mounting hole and the locking member of the lock selectively engages the annular groove of the foot post to lock the foot post.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2008Date of Patent: December 22, 2009Inventor: Chun-Chieh Wang
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Patent number: 7631950Abstract: An apparatus for externally controlling one or more brakes on a vehicle having a pressurized fluid braking system. The apparatus can include a pressurizable vessel that is adapted for fluid-tight coupling to the braking system. Impact to the rear of the vehicle by a pursuit vehicle, shooting a target mounted on the vehicle or sending a signal from a remote control can all result in the fluid pressures in the braking system of the vehicle being modified so that the vehicle is stopped and rendered temporarily inoperable. A control device can also be provided in the driver's compartment of the vehicle for similarly rendering the vehicle inoperable. A driver or hijacker of the vehicle preferably cannot overcome the stopping action from the driver's compartment.Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2005Date of Patent: December 15, 2009Assignee: Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLCInventors: Willard H. Wattenburg, David B. McCallen
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Publication number: 20090294198Abstract: A theft deterrent system for an electronic device associated with a motor vehicle is disclosed. The theft deterrent system includes a shield portion, a bracket portion and a fastener. The shield portion and the bracket portion are attached to an electronic device with the fastener. The shield portion prevents substantially immediate removal of a connector from a connecting port of the electronic device.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 3, 2008Publication date: December 3, 2009Applicant: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Golam Ahmed, Jack Alan Strahm, JR.
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Publication number: 20090293960Abstract: Apparatus deflates a tire following unauthorized access to a motor vehicle. In one embodiment, a self-damaging tire valve assembly is capable of being damaged to such a degree by damage inflicting apparatus in close proximity to the valve assembly that air escapes from the corresponding tire. An activation device housed within the damage inflicting apparatus, when activated, following unauthorized access of a motor vehicle is able to damage the body and grommet of the valve assembly without damaging the tire rim. In one embodiment, a processor transmits an activation signal to a wireless switch following reception of an unauthorized access signal when the motor vehicle is in an armed state.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2006Publication date: December 3, 2009Inventors: Dror Tzarum, Asher Tzarum
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Patent number: 7592714Abstract: A system and method for bypassing the ignition switch and controlling operation of an engine and an accessory drive of a vehicle, the system comprising an ignition switch, a user-activated secondary switch, a control logic circuit, and a third switch. The ignition switch controls operation of the engine that enables the engine to operate when the ignition switch is in an ON state. The user-activated secondary switch makes a connection in a parallel electrical power supply circuit to the engine and vehicle accessory drive, when the secondary switch is in the CLOSED state. The control logic circuit is responsive to the ignition switch, the secondary switch, and a user-activated vehicle control device. The third switch is associated with a user-activated vehicle control device wherein the third switch causes the logic circuit to interrupt the parallel electrical power supply circuit, when the user-activated vehicle control device is activated.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2006Date of Patent: September 22, 2009Assignee: Safe Stop International, LLCInventors: Charles Barroy Brown, Jr., Michael Joseph Trebilcott, Jr.
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Patent number: 7584979Abstract: A powered retractable motorcycle stand is disclosed having a stationary upper assembly mounted to a motorcycle and a moving lower assembly for ground contact. The stationary assembly includes a horizontal driven shaft coupled to an electric motor coupled. Gear reduction means transfers torque from the horizontal shaft to a vertical screw shaft that extends to a ground contact position and retracts into a protective housing. The vertical screw shaft is pinned so that it does not rotate and is restricted to linear movement. A safety device to prevent operation of the motorcycle while the stand is engaged is included. Motorcycle anti-theft means are also included.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2006Date of Patent: September 8, 2009Inventors: Daniel Labonte, Jeanne Labonte
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Patent number: 7579791Abstract: A vehicle-side device receives a response signal transmitted from an electronic key carried by a user and executes a matching process to check whether the key is an authorized one. When the matching is confirmed and the operation of a sensor/switch disposed on a door is detected, a given door is unlocked. The device determines a door which is to be opened by the user, and the seat state is controlled on the basis the door to be opened. If the door to be opened is for rearmost seats, the rearmost seats are automatically controlled to a seating state or a loading state based on detection of absence or presence of an object on the rearmost seats.Type: GrantFiled: May 3, 2007Date of Patent: August 25, 2009Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Kazuhiro Nakashima, Kentarou Teshima, Kenichi Ogino
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Patent number: 7574940Abstract: A steering column assembly for a motor vehicle includes a steering shaft, a support bracket rotatably receiving the steering shaft for rotatably supporting the steering shaft on the motor vehicle, and an anti-rotation device. The anti-rotation device is supported by the support bracket and is moveable between an engaged position and a disengaged position. In the engaged position, the anti-rotation device prevents rotation of the steering shaft relative to the support bracket. The anti-rotation device may be moved from the engaged position to the disengaged position to allow rotation of the steering shaft relative to the support bracket. Prior to assembly of the steering column assembly to the motor vehicle, the anti-rotation device may be moved to the engaged position to lock the steering column in a common rotational position. After assembly, the anti-rotation device may be moved to the disengaged position to allow rotation of the steering shaft.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2006Date of Patent: August 18, 2009Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.Inventors: Jason R. Ridgway, Marvin V. Manwaring, William D. Cymbal
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System, method, and apparatus for collecting telematics and sensor information in a delivery vehicle
Patent number: 7571036Abstract: The invention is directed to a data collection and evaluation system that includes a telematics device for collecting, time-stamping, and storing vehicle sensor data. Examples of the type of data collected include door data, ignition data, speed data, global positioning data, and diagnostic and trouble code data. The system further includes an external data acquisition device, such as a mainframe computer system or a hand-held computing device like an iPAQ. The external data acquisition device is configured to communicate with the telematics device over a wireless network, which enables the telematics device to transmit the time-stamped data to the external data acquisition device and receive information and instructions from the external data acquisition device.Type: GrantFiled: October 20, 2008Date of Patent: August 4, 2009Assignee: United Parcel Service of America, Inc.Inventors: John Olsen, David Bradley, Rhesa Jenkins -
Patent number: 7540350Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft mechanism moves the driver's unit into a location which prevents operation of the vehicle. The mechanism includes a bracket mechanism that fits onto the driver's seat unit and has two screws that movably connect a first bracket cross arm to a second bracket cross arm. A motor operates the screws to move the cross arms toward and away from each other when activated by a programmable remote control. The first cross arm is connected to the seat unit and the second cross arm is connected to the vehicle frame adjacent to the steering wheel of the vehicle to be stationary with respect to the first cross arm so that operation of the motor will move the first cross arm toward or away from the second cross arm, thereby moving the seat unit connected to the first cross arm toward and away from the second cross arm. The second cross arm thus moves the seat unit toward and away from the steering wheel.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2006Date of Patent: June 2, 2009Inventor: Gregory L. Vickers
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Patent number: 7529602Abstract: The vehicle-installed remote control unit includes a receiver receiving a command signal transmitted from a transmitter dedicated to a vehicle, and a controller controlling a part of the vehicle in accordance with the command signal received by the receiver. The controller has a noise-decision function of deciding whether or not a signal received by the receiver is a noise, a record function of recording noise information including at least information specifying a time at which the signal received by the receiver is decided to be the noise by the noise-decision function in a memory included in the controller, and an output function of outputting the noise information recorded in the memory to an external device in response to a command received from the external device.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 2005Date of Patent: May 5, 2009Assignee: DENSO CORPORATIONInventors: Hitomi Nagata, Yoshinori Katsuta, Kenichi Ogino
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Publication number: 20090107752Abstract: An exhaust system protection device is described that can be installed on the exhaust pipe of a vehicle. The device is designed to protect valuable components of the exhaust system from unauthorized removal. The device has a first locking collar that is configured to be removably positioned around the exhaust pipe of the vehicle. The first locking collar is positioned adjacent to the first end of the component that is to be protected. A second locking collar is removably positioned around the exhaust pipe adjacent the second end of the component that is to be protected. A plurality of elongated members extends from the first locking collar to the second locking collar. The plurality of elongated members is positioned around the component in a manner whereby the component cannot be removed from the exhaust system between the plurality of elongated members.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2008Publication date: April 30, 2009Inventor: James R. Dusa, II
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Patent number: 7526371Abstract: The present invention concerns a method for the position-dependent control of a mobile element in a motor vehicle, wherein the element is movable in a drive movement by an electrically powered positioning device, wherein the positioning device has several different operational modes, and characteristics of a drive signal of the positing device, in particular a waviness of a drive current, are used for the determination of the position of the element. According to the invention, a characteristic variable, which influences the drive movement of the positioning device, and/or a specific value, which characterizes the positioning device, are evaluated for the determination of an error value of the determined position of the mobile element, and that the operating modes of the positioning device are controlled in dependence of the determined error value.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2005Date of Patent: April 28, 2009Assignees: Brose Fahrzeugteile GmbH & Co., Kommanditgesellschaft, HallstadtInventors: Jürgen Seeberger, Carsten Abert
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Patent number: 7521817Abstract: A system 10 and method for reducing the possibility of fires and/or explosions when a vehicle impacts an object includes a cable connector 12 having a first portion 14 connected to an ungrounded terminal 20 of a battery 22 in the vehicle and a second portion 16 connected to all vehicle electrical components requiring power from battery 22, an inert gas canister 18 having an internal pressure that facilitates the separation of the first and second portions 14 and 16 of the cable connector 12 when predetermined conditions are satisfied, electric squib means 24 for initiating pressurized inert gas flow from the canister 18 to the first portion 14 of the cable connector 12, an accelerometer 28 for sensing impact between the vehicle and the object, and a microprocessor 30 for signaling the accelerometer 28 to “fire” the squib means 24 when the magnitude of impact requires an inert gas flow to the first portion 14 whereby the second portion 16 is forcibly ejected from the first portion 14 and the area adjacent to tType: GrantFiled: May 3, 2006Date of Patent: April 21, 2009Inventor: Donald Gors
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Patent number: 7503195Abstract: A wheel lock apparatus for a wheeled vehicle, said vehicle having a tire, the wheel lock apparatus comprising at least one tooth, wherein the at least one tooth is moveable between a first position, against the tire, and a second position, remote therefrom, such that, in the first position, the at least one tooth is oriented to substantially prevent forward rotation of the tire by engaging the tire, whilst in the second position, the tire is free to rotate.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2002Date of Patent: March 17, 2009Inventor: Alfred Michael Vegvary
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Patent number: 7502687Abstract: A tracking unit for a vehicle may include a vehicle position determining device, a wireless communications device, and a controller cooperating with the wireless communications device and the vehicle position determining device to determine and send vehicle position information to a user. The controller may store a user selected reference location, and send the vehicle position information based upon the vehicle moving beyond a radial threshold distance from the user selected reference location. More particularly, the vehicle position information may be sent a threshold time after the vehicle moves beyond the radial threshold distance from the user selected reference location if the vehicle has not moved back within the radial threshold distance. Additionally, the vehicle tracking unit may further include at least one input device to be positioned within the vehicle for setting the user selected reference location.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 2005Date of Patent: March 10, 2009Assignee: Omega Patents, L.L.C.Inventor: Kenneth E. Flick
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Patent number: 7496441Abstract: The present invention is directed to a computer based control system for controlling hydraulic and electromechanical actuators on a power machine, such as a skid steer loader. The computer based control system is configured to implement a number of features to enhance certain operational aspects of the power machine.Type: GrantFiled: October 19, 2006Date of Patent: February 24, 2009Assignee: Clark Equipment CompanyInventors: Kenneth A. Brandt, Scott R. Rossow
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Publication number: 20090038874Abstract: A locking assembly is provided for installation on a saddle-type vehicle such as an ATV. The locking assembly has a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration and comprises a removable portion and a receptacle. The receptacle is configured to engage the removable portion. The locking assembly is configured to unlock and allow powering of the vehicle when the removable portion is engaged in the receptacle and to lock and prevent powering the vehicle when the removable portion is not engaged in the receptacle. The removable portion includes an actuator configured to select from a first operable engine condition and a second inoperable engine condition.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 9, 2007Publication date: February 12, 2009Inventor: Jason William Grundey
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Publication number: 20090025999Abstract: A vehicle door lock device includes a latching mechanism, a locking mechanism, and a child-lock mechanism. The child-lock mechanism is arranged between the latching mechanism and an inside door handle, and switches between a transmitting state and a non-transmitting state. The child-lock mechanism in the transmitting state transmits to the latching mechanism a force regarding an attempt to open a door by using the inside door handle, while the child-lock mechanism in the non-transmitting state does not transmit the force to the latching mechanism. When the latching mechanism receives the force, an inside-door handle lever causes the locking mechanism to switch to an unlocked state from a locked state. When the child-lock mechanism is in the transmitting state and the locking mechanism is in the locked state, a link lever and a panic lever operate the inside-door handle lever without transmitting the force to the latching mechanism.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 17, 2008Publication date: January 29, 2009Inventor: Katsuyuki ISHIGURO
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Patent number: 7469767Abstract: A method for regulating the speed of a motor vehicle includes the steps of sensing an open door, verifying the authorization of a driver, and preventing the flow of fuel to the engine until an authorized driver has securely closed the vehicle doors. The method also includes the steps of sensing that the driver's seat belt is securely fastened and limiting the flow of fuel to thereby provide a relatively slow speed until the seat belt is fastened and thereafter limiting the flow of fuel to provide a second pre-selected speed. Further, the method includes the steps of overriding the second pre-selected speed and activating a vehicle's flashers when the second pre-selected speed is exceeded. Apparatus for accomplishing the method is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2005Date of Patent: December 30, 2008Inventor: Jasem Al Jasem
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Patent number: 7466217Abstract: A system for signaling that a person is in an vehicle is provided and includes a power source, a processing unit including a counter, a state monitoring unit configured to monitor an internal temperature of the vehicle and to monitor whether the vehicle is in an off state and a door monitoring unit configured to monitor whether any of the vehicle doors are open or closed, a first buckle receiver, including a first signal issuing unit, a first buckle to be removably inserted into the buckle receiver and to thereby cause the first signal issuing unit to issue an installation signal to the processing unit, a second buckle receiver, including a second signal issuing unit, a second buckle to be removably inserted into the second buckle receiver and to thereby cause the second signal issuing unit to issue an occupation signal to the processing unit, and an alarm unit.Type: GrantFiled: April 24, 2008Date of Patent: December 16, 2008Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Alexander C. Johnson, Scott W. Nelson, Hal A. Porter, Joshua R. Paulson
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Patent number: 7463135Abstract: A multi-mode vehicle security system is provided. The system comprises: a control module wirelessly selectable to operate in one of a plurality of modes; and a function module for receiving a command from the control module and instructing a vehicle device to perform a function associated with the command.Type: GrantFiled: March 1, 2006Date of Patent: December 9, 2008Assignee: Audiovox CorporationInventor: John DiCroce
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System, method, and apparatus for collecting telematics and sensor information in a delivery vehicle
Patent number: 7457693Abstract: The invention is directed to a data collection and evaluation system that includes a telematics device for collecting, time-stamping, and storing vehicle sensor data. Examples of the type of data collected include door data, ignition data, speed data, global positioning data, and diagnostic and trouble code data. The system further includes an external data acquisition device, such as a mainframe computer system or a hand-held computing device like an iPAQ. The external data acquisition device is configured to communicate with the telematics device over a wireless network, which enables the telematics device to transmit the time-stamped data to the external data acquisition device and receive information and instructions from the external data acquisition device.Type: GrantFiled: January 10, 2005Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: United Parcel Service of America, Inc.Inventors: John Olsen, David Bradley, Rhesa Jenkins -
Patent number: 7451851Abstract: A readily transportable and rapidly deployed vehicle immobilization device is provided. The exhaust of an internal combustion engine is obstructed, resulting in choking off and stopping of the engine. In an aspect, a plug is provided having an extension fixed to the plug for human grasping, and facilitating insertion into an end of a vehicle exhaust pipe. In an aspect the plug expands upon being heated and is adhesive to the exhaust pipe for at least partially sealing the exhaust pipe. In another aspect, a length of adhesive material is attached to the front of a pursuing vehicle and engages an end of an exhaust pipe of a fleeing vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 2004Date of Patent: November 18, 2008Inventor: Jeffrey Wax
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Publication number: 20080245598Abstract: A system and method for motor vehicle restriction control enables an owner of a motor vehicle to restrict another person's use and operation of the owner's motor vehicle. The system includes a driver identification module identifying a driver operating the motor vehicle and a storage device for storing at least one restriction profile defining for the driver at least one restriction of the operation the motor vehicle. The system farther includes a motor vehicle controlling device for restricting the operation of the motor vehicle according to the at least one restriction in response to the driver identification module identifying the driver.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 16, 2008Publication date: October 9, 2008Applicant: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATIONInventors: Rosemarie M. Gratz, Dimitri Kanevsky, Alexander Zlatsin
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Publication number: 20080223646Abstract: A method and system for inhibiting power of a vehicle given to a third party. The system includes a mode-indicating, an authenticator coupled to the mode-indicating device, and a power inhibiting device coupled to the mode-indicating device and adapted to selectively inhibit the power of the vehicle. Here, the mode-indicating device is adapted to communicate a power restriction signal to the power inhibiting device to inhibit the power of the vehicle upon an activation of the mode-indicating device by an authenticated driver and until a deactivation of the mode-indicating device by the authenticated driver, and the authenticator is adapted to restrict the activation and the deactivation of the mode-indicating device unless the driver has been authenticated by the authenticator.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 4, 2007Publication date: September 18, 2008Inventors: Steven C. White, Roger F. Wells
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Patent number: 7408445Abstract: A system for generating a reminder signal to one or more individuals exiting a vehicle for purposes of preventing the inadvertent leaving of a child, pet or other object therein. A sensor assembly monitors the presence of an individual within a predetermined proximity area and actuates an alarm assembly so as to generate a demonstrable reminder signal of significant intensity. A control assembly operatively connected to the sensor assembly comprises both arming and shut-off capabilities which are automatically and/or manually operable, respectively, to activate and deactivate the sensor assembly. In operation, the sensor assembly will cause the alarm assembly to generate the reminder signal upon the passage of one or more individuals out of the predetermined proximity area thereby forcing a return to the vehicle to deactivate the system, wherein the interior of the vehicle is readily observable to determine the existence of an inadvertently left object.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2005Date of Patent: August 5, 2008Inventor: Bill Cunningham
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Patent number: 7408446Abstract: There is provided in back of the instrument panel the motion sensor that transmits the radio wave continuously or periodically and receive the radio wave reflected in the vehicle compartment. Also, there is provided the burglar horn that executes specified alarming when a specified change in the reflected radio wave received by the motion sensor occurs. Herein, the motion sensor transmits the radio wave toward the instrument panel. Thereby, the stable burglar alarm operation can be performed.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2005Date of Patent: August 5, 2008Assignee: Mazda Motor CorporationInventors: Yoshifumi Umeo, Akihiro Furuzawa, Yasushi Hamada
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Patent number: 7394352Abstract: Vehicle theft deterrence is affected by requiring the entry of an enabling code to prevent disablement of vehicle operation. System operational variables may be programmed by operators. The system is substantially integrated with existing vehicle control systems.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2005Date of Patent: July 1, 2008Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLCInventors: Joseph A. Bell, Robert D. Dannenberg
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Patent number: 7388471Abstract: In accordance with the present invention, an anti-theft system includes an input device and a processor having an associated memory, the memory including instructions executable by the processor to activate the anti-theft system in response to receiving an authorization code from the input device and, when the anti-theft system is activated, to lock the engine in response to receiving one of a user code and a master code from the input device.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2005Date of Patent: June 17, 2008Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: Glenn O. Scheer, Dennis P. Reiter, Kenneth Franck
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Patent number: 7388473Abstract: An entry control system includes a portable device carried by a vehicle user and a biometric sensor attached to a vehicle door. The biometric sensor includes a CCD camera and a shutter. The shutter is moved to uncover the CCD camera only when the portable device is validated. After the biometric sensor detects the biometric information based on a finger print image of the user, the shutter is moved again to cover the CCD camera. Each time the shutter moves, a brush cleans the CCD camera. The vehicle door is enabled to be opened only when the user is validated based on the biometric information.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2005Date of Patent: June 17, 2008Assignee: DENSO CORPORATIONInventors: Kentaro Teshima, Kazuhiro Nakashima, Takeshi Kumazaki
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Patent number: 7383928Abstract: A parking brake for a vehicle, including a parking brake unit, an actuating device situated inside the vehicle and operable to transmit an actuation signal to a control unit, a hydraulic circuit of a service brake of the vehicle connected to the parking brake unit, and an actuator and locking device for locking the parking brake in a braking position; the parking brake is actuatable by means of the hydraulic circuit and the actuator is a brake booster of the service brake.Type: GrantFiled: September 22, 2006Date of Patent: June 10, 2008Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventor: Cedric Leboisne
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Patent number: 7354218Abstract: A system for repositioning an elongated traffic barrier utilizes a tow vehicle connected to one end of the elongated traffic barrier to exert a pulling force on the elongated traffic barrier and a drag connected at the other end of the elongated traffic barrier to exert a drag force opposed to the pulling force exerted by the tow vehicle to resist wandering of the elongated traffic barrier during repositioning thereof.Type: GrantFiled: January 19, 2007Date of Patent: April 8, 2008Assignee: Barrier Systems, Inc.Inventors: Gerrit Dyke, Alvaro E. Morales Flores
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Patent number: 7352081Abstract: A control device is provided for activating and deactivating a child safety lock function of rear doors of a motor vehicle. The control device includes a safety lock device connected to rear inside door handles of the rear doors. The control device also includes a central control unit for controlling the safety lock device between a first operating position that defines a normal operating mode, in which the safety lock device allows the rear doors to be opened using both the rear inside door handles and the rear outside door handles, and a second operating position that defines a safety lock mode, in which the safety lock device does not allow the rear doors to be opened using the rear inside door handles. A selector device is included for manually selecting between the normal operating mode and the safety lock mode.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2006Date of Patent: April 1, 2008Assignee: Intier Automotive Closures S.p.A.Inventor: Marco Taurasi
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Patent number: 7350615Abstract: A theft-deterrent system for a vehicle includes at least one detecting unit that detects information on damage of the vehicle including vehicle theft or vandalizing of the vehicle, at least one prevention unit that executes a preventive measure against the damage, a situation identifying unit that identifies a situation of the damage based on order of detection of the information, a degree-of-danger judging unit that judges a degree of danger based on the situation, and a theft-deterrent control unit that selects and controls the at least one prevention unit corresponding to the degree of danger to execute the preventive measure against the damage.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2004Date of Patent: April 1, 2008Assignee: Fujitsu Ten LimitedInventors: Yoshihiko Maeno, Hiroshi Takeuchi, Toshitaka Yamato, Satoshi Harumoto, Naotoshi Miyamoto
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Patent number: 7339459Abstract: Various systems, methods, and computer programs are used to operate a vehicle having a power door. The power door may be opened in response to a user instruction when a vehicle speed value is below a predetermined vehicle speed value. When an alarm system for the vehicle is in an armed state, a signal representative of a synthetic vehicle speed value that is above the predetermined vehicle speed value is generated to prevent the power door from opening.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2006Date of Patent: March 4, 2008Assignee: Nissan Technical Center North America, Inc.Inventors: Matthew Jordan, Ronald Shpakoff
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Patent number: 7327230Abstract: A security system having security devices with hierarchical levels of access provided to coded keys which may be hand held transmitter units, is disclosed. The levels of access are master which is restricted to the manufacturer, seller and installer, supervisor which can be allocated to a site, and user which is usually specific to one security device only. The security devices can be programmed to be responsive to all of the supervisor coded keys and/or user coded keys, or a user coded key only. The security system can be used in a method of securing all vehicles at a car sales, where all of the vehicles can have their security devices programmed to be responsive to supervisor coded keys specific to the car sales site. When a vehicle is sold, its security device can be reprogrammed to be responsive to specific user coded keys only.Type: GrantFiled: August 16, 2004Date of Patent: February 5, 2008Assignee: Dynamco Pty LtdInventors: Ivor Metlitzky, Richard Thomas Frizell
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Device for occupant protection in a motor vehicle and for anti-theft protection of the motor vehicle
Patent number: 7320379Abstract: The invention relates to a device for occupant protection in a motor vehicle and for anti-theft protection of the motor vehicle, comprising an airbag (3), which may be inflated with gas by means of a filling device, a transceiver (5), for electromagnetic waves (6) and an occupant protection analytical unit (81) connected thereto. An occupant protection interrogation unit (41) is arranged on the inflatable airbag (3), which is wirelessly interrogated by the transceiver (5). Information on the degree and/or speed of unfolding of the airbag is thus provided to the occupant protection analytical unit (81). The transceiver (5) may furthermore wirelessly interrogate a portable anti-theft interrogation unit (42), for example, a chipcard and hence provide an anti-theft analytical unit (82) with information about the authorisation of the anti-theft interrogation unit (42) and/or the separation of the anti-theft interrogation unit (42) from the transceiver (5) based on the returned signal.Type: GrantFiled: October 31, 2003Date of Patent: January 22, 2008Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Janos Gila, Jürgen Herold, Klaus Hofbeck, Wolfgang Konrad, Birgit Rösel, Stephan Zecha -
Publication number: 20080006466Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft mechanism moves the driver's unit into a location which prevents operation of the vehicle. The mechanism includes a bracket mechanism that fits onto the driver's seat unit and has two screws that movably connect a first bracket cross arm to a second bracket cross arm. A motor operates the screws to move the cross arms toward and away from each other when activated by a programmable remote control. The first cross arm is connected to the seat unit and the second cross arm is connected to the vehicle frame adjacent to the steering wheel of the vehicle to be stationary with respect to the first cross arm so that operation of the motor will move the first cross arm toward or away from the second cross arm, thereby moving the seat unit connected to the first cross arm toward and away from the second cross arm. The second cross arm thus moves the seat unit toward and away from the steering wheel.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 6, 2006Publication date: January 10, 2008Inventor: Gregory L. Vickers
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Patent number: 7298241Abstract: A remote control apparatus for a saddle-type vehicle includes a handlebar lock module having a knob enabling at least a starting operation of an engine, and a handlebar lock cancellation operation in response to reception of a signal from a portable transmitter. The knob is disposed on a leg shield covering the front of the legs of a rider. An accommodation recess includes a lid member and is formed on the leg shield on one side of the handlebar lock module. An emergency unlocking key cylinder lock for enabling at least starting of an engine and handlebar lock cancellation without the necessity for a portable transmitter is disposed in the leg shield such that a keyhole thereof faces an inner side face of the accommodation recess. The invention allows operation of the vehicle using an emergency unlocking mechanical key even if a portable transmitter is not available.Type: GrantFiled: October 11, 2004Date of Patent: November 20, 2007Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Takeshi Konno, Fuminori Kamemizu
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Patent number: 7285872Abstract: A method to prevent unauthorized use and/or access to a vehicle is disclosed. The method includes apparatus which is positioned within a known motor housing and actuable only within the motor housing. In one embodiment, an ignition generator coil interrupt circuit is provided and mounted directly within the housing of the motor. A switch is connected to the circuit which allows power interruption to the ignition generator coil. When the switch is activated, power interruption of said ignition generator coil is achieved to disable the engine from normal operation. Conveniently, the interrupt circuit is positioned entirely within the housing and therefore inaccessible for tampering. In another embodiment a switch circuit is positioned between an ECM motherboard and sensors typically associate with an automobile engine. This circuit is useful for arrangements which do not include a magneto/stator arrangement.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 2004Date of Patent: October 23, 2007Assignee: 2TIS Technologies Inc.Inventors: Carl Ellingsworth, Jay Ripley