Abstract: The invention relates to a device for opening and closing windows (1a, 1b, 1c, 1d) of a motor vehicle having window regulators (4a,4b,4c,4d) which are operated by a secondary force and which can be triggered independently of each other by operating elements (5a,5b,5c,5d) and with an anti-jam protection device (7). According to the invention an additional operating element (8) is provided with which the locking devices (3a, 3b, 3c, 3d) of the vehicle can be triggered, the anti-jam protection device (7) can be deactivated and the window regulators (4a, 4b, 4c, 4d) can be brought jointly into their closing position.

Abstract: A control unit for user-specific adjustment of device settings in a motor vehicle on the basis of user data according to a specific key, where the control unit recognizes the users in the seat positions in a motor vehicle on the basis of identification means assigned to each user. The control system is characterized by a great variability and convenience. Instead of allowing only driver-specific settings, the control system according to the present invention allows a person-specific selection of seat positions, climate control or multimedia entertainment. This is made possible by means of a seat-specific identification.

Abstract: A driver briefly places his hand upon a biometric hand reader once during each successive four minute recurrent time interval established by a microprocessor that continuous to produce a maintain-truck-operative signal to prevent truck disablement that would otherwise occur while driving. Should a hijacker drive the truck away and use the hand reader, the reader senses a mismatch, will cease to produce the maintain-truck-operative signal, and the truck will stop. The hijacker is prevented from occupying the cab and forcing the driver to drive and use the sensor by a switch-mat within the passenger area that senses the hijacker's presence and disables the truck. A facial recognition reader will stop the truck if the driver is absent in an even faster manner, which is very important when a gasoline truck that is a bomb-on-wheels is stolen. More affordable data input sensors comprising a steering wheel pushbutton encoder are also disclosed.

Abstract: A watercraft includes an anti-theft switch which disables the starter button and provides a kill signal to the engine, thereby preventing unauthorized use and inadvertent draining of the battery.

Abstract: A system and method for controlling functions of a vehicle includes first and second electromagnetic communication devices. The first electromagnetic communication device is adapted to transmit a coded response signal. The second electromagnetic communication device is adapted to receive the coded response signal. The second electromagnetic communication device is further adapted to transmit an uncoded outgoing signal and to receive an uncoded incoming signal that is a reflection of the outgoing signal.

Abstract: A start/drive system for a vehicle includes a selector assembly having a drive/gear selector, a driver authority device, a security system and a lock. The lock provides an initial partial release and a subsequent complete release of the drive/gear selector. An initial movement of the selector triggers an authorization check in order to allow a further complete release of the selector.

Abstract: A security system (10) for providing a remote indication of a breach in security including an electronic device with an electronic device body (12) and a disabling member (14) couplable thereto. The electronic device is disabled by removing the disabling member (14). A security breach causes an alarm signal to be sent to the disabling member (14), which announces the receipt of an alarm signal. The electronic device can be a vehicle sound-reproduction device, and the disabling member (14) can be all or a portion of a face thereof. The alarm signal can be sent first by radio transmission that, if necessary, can be supplemented by a mobile communications transmission. The disabling member (14) could further act as a mobile communications pager and as a mobile telephone. The disabling member (14) could operate to affect operation of a vehicle in which the security system (10) is employed.

Abstract: A pedal locking device for locking and securing a brake and/or clutch pedal of a vehicle includes a dual locking mechanism. The dual locking mechanism provides a first locking device which is movable to engage a locking bracket with the pedals and a second locking device which is actuatable to lock the first locking mechanism in its locked position. The locking device is adjustably mounted to a steering column of the vehicle and is adapted for use with different vehicles, without requiring any alteration of the length of the locking device.

Abstract: In a method of protecting against unauthorized use of a vehicle having a communication structure for exchange of data between a receiving unit, a use protection and control unit and at least one operationally essential system control, a master station broadcasts a signal defining use restrictions applicable to the vehicle, and the use protection and control unit aboard the vehicle checks for violation of the use restrictions, and disables the at least one operationally essential system control if a violation is detected.

Abstract: A refueling safety system for a vehicle with a switch attached to a fuel door to prevent a vehicle's engine from functioning while the fuel door is opened and being refueled.

Abstract: An industrial truck includes a lifting apparatus, in particular a lifting mast, and a driver's workplace. To provide an industrial truck in which injuries caused by the operator touching the lifting apparatus can be effectively prevented, a safety device is provided which is effectively connected with a drive device of the lifting apparatus and/or of an actuator device of the lifting apparatus. In one advantageous embodiment, the safety device is effectively connected with a sensor device, whereby depending on the signal of the sensor device, the drive device of the lifting apparatus can receive a signal and/or the actuator device of the lifting apparatus can be enabled. The sensor device is located on a steering device, such as a steering wheel, and detects contact with the steering wheel by the driver's one hand.

Abstract: This invention concerns the anti-theft security devices for a motor vehicle, such devices being of the type consisting of portable transmitting means, of a receiving module on board said vehicle and of means controlling a system for interrupting at least one circuit required for operating the vehicle (ignition circuit engine, fuel intake circuit or other . . . ) when the distance between said transmitting means and said receiving means exceeds a certain value.

Abstract: In a vehicle remote-control system, an anti-theft unit includes a vehicle control module, which can receive a disarm signal directly from a signal transmitting key, and which can change from an armed state, in which an inactive state of an ignition system is maintained, to a disarmed state, in which the ignition system is activated, upon receipt of the disarm signal. A starting unit includes a starting device, which generates an enable signal upon receipt of a starting control signal from a remote controller, and which controls starting operation of the ignition system when the vehicle control module is at the disarmed state and the starting device receives the starting control signal. A signal connector is enabled by the enable signal so as to relay the disarm signal from the key to the vehicle control module.

Abstract: An air bag module (20) having a base plate (30) and a toroidal air bag (80) is disclosed. The toroidal air bag (80) defines a pocket (120). The toroidal air bag (80) is coupled to the base plate (30). A control module (40) having a base plate portion (82) and a generally cylindrical portion (86) is coupled to the base and located within the toroidal air bag (80). The control module (40) has a control module cover (90) coupled to said generally cylindrical portion (86) disposed within said pocket (120).

Abstract: A vehicle system includes a remote function controller, and a data bus adaptor cartridge removably coupled to a data bus adaptor cartridge connector for permitting communications between control circuitry and at least one vehicle device over the data communications bus. The control circuitry may couple to the data bus adaptor cartridge through serial or parallel interfaces. The control circuitry may generate digital command codes, and the data bus adaptor cartridge may convert the digital command codes into data communications bus signals according to a desired protocol. The control circuitry may also read digital codes, and the data bus adaptor cartridge may convert data communications bus signals into digital codes according to a desired protocol for the control circuitry.

Abstract: A system for the selective deployment of a tire deflation device. The system incorporates the use of a mounted housing combined with a compressed gas propulsion source for ejecting a collapsed tire deflation device that is attached to the housing with a tether line. One embodiment of the invention is to have a dual system mounted to the underside of a vehicle behind the rear tires. Each system is pointed in an opposite direction to achieve left or right side deployment. A set of control switches mounted inside the vehicle near the operator can be depressed for either left or right side ejection. Upon ejection the tire deflation device projects laterally away from the vehicle. A remote trigger is disclosed.

Abstract: A vehicle security and monitoring system for protecting vehicles from theft and providing visual evidence of activity. The vehicle security and monitoring system includes an alarm assembly positioned within a vehicle including an audible alarm and a video assembly.

Abstract: A method and apparatus of vehicle theft prevention, which utilizes a key having a transponder bearing an ID and a key cylinder, that is adapted to receive this key and which has an antenna for supplying electrical power to the transponder and receiving an ID signal back from it. This system permits easy correction of incorrectly set original IDs or the simple substitution of a new key or an old master key as a new master key into a vehicle wherein the lock cylinder must be replaced due to a defect.

Abstract: A device for locking a piston rod of a hydraulic piston and cylinder assembly in an extended condition. The locking device is placed in interposed relation to a hydraulic cylinder and an opposing bearing point to prevent retraction of the piston rod. The device has a split sleeve configuration to facilitate mounting the locking device in encircling relating to the piston rod including opposed longitudinally extending edges that are locked to one another via a locking means. The locking means of the device is partially enclosed by a lock protecting housing to protect the locking device from being removed by unauthorized persons. The device is durable, easy to install and remove, and adaptable to a variety of hydraulic piston and cylinder assemblies.

Abstract: A remote control lock operation system for a vehicle capable of unlocking a mechanical locking mechanism for mechanically disabling traveling of the vehicle by a infrared signal, without using the key. Components of the system include a handheld remote control transmitter, a receiver, a mechanical locking mechanism, a lock actuator and control unit, and wiring sections for connecting the lock actuator and the receiver to the control unit mounted in a common module housing contained on the vehicle body. The main components of the system, including the wiring section leading to the lock actuator, are unitized and integrate into the common module housing in order to prevent unauthorized unlocking of the lock. Also provided is a mobile communication terminal having an infrared transmitting port, and a method for using of the terminal.

Abstract: Pyroelectric detector systems may be used in vehicles for security applications, such as intrusion detection and anti-theft alarms. The pyroelectric detectors are small in size, highly reliable and consume very low power. They can be physically and electrically integrated with other vehicle components, including rear-view mirror assemblies in automobiles, without incurring additional installation costs. They can also be easily integrated into aircraft cockpits.

Abstract: In a simultaneous multi-data stream transmission method and apparatus a first signal is transmitted at a fixed repetition rate from a first transceiver device (14). A second transceiver (33) then receives and demodulates the information embedded in the first signal and transmits a second signal back to the first transceiver device (14). The first transceiver (14) then receives and demodulates the information embedded in the second signal and modifies the repetition rate to another rate. A wireless receiving device (10) detects the another repetition rate of the transmitted first signal and takes action dependent on the designed application.

Abstract: An anti-theft lock structure for a vehicle having a code box which must be accessed to enable the vehicle to operate. When the vehicle is not enabled the steering column is locked in position, the gear shift lever is locked in position so the transmission cannot change gears, the front brakes are locked and the rear brakes are separately locked; and the electrical system, for a gas engine is disabled at the distributor, and the fuel system, for a diesel engine, is disabled at the fuel cell. The lock has a piston slidably received in a hydraulic cylinder having a piston rod extending from the piston to an operative shaft. An electromagnet is supported on the hydraulic cylinder and adjacent to the piston so that the field from the electromagnet holds the piston rod out of engagement with the operative shaft when the ignition of the engine is turned on. The engine has an oil system connected to the hydraulic cylinder to force the magnetic piston away from the gear rim when the engine has started.

Abstract: Occupant sensing system (12) for detecting the presence of an occupant within an automotive vehicle (10) includes a seat belt sensor (14) for detecting a buckled condition of the seat belt. An ignition sensor (24) generates an ignition-off signal. An indicator (30) is coupled to a controller (20), the seat belt sensor (22), and the ignition sensor (18). The controller controls the indicator in response to the seat belt buckled signal and ignition-off signal.

Abstract: A tamper-resistant anti-theft system suitable for vehicles includes a radio signal receiver capable of receiving periodically broadcast keep-alive signals. The keep-alive signals, each coded for a particular protected vehicle, are provided by a monitoring agency with which the protected property is registered. The anti-theft system includes logic for validating a received signal. The system also includes a run signal generator for generating a limited-duration run signal that permits the protected property to be used normally for the duration. If the vehicle is reported stolen, the monitoring agency stops broadcasting keep-alive signals for the vehicle. Once the current run signal lapses, operations are initiated to prevent further normal use of the vehicle. Property other than vehicles can be protected by the system.

Abstract: This process is adapted for at least two groups of antennas (4, 6). A modulated signal is emitted by a first group of antennas (4) whilst the antennas (6) of a second group emit a similar modulated parasitic signal but of less amplitude.

Abstract: A vehicle security system 10 having an improved signaling methodology 22 which results in a decrease in the power consumed by the vehicle security system 10.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a device (10) for starting and for locking/unlocking a motor vehicle, of the type comprising: a key (11) carrying at least one control for locking/unlocking the vehicle, a support (12) designed to accommodate the key in an appropriate housing (13) and to detect the presence of this key in the housing, and an element for starting/stopping the vehicle engine, the device being characterized in that the starting/stopping element is a bistable button (15) formed on the support (12), the said button (15) furthermore constituting a structure for immobilizing the key (11) in the housing (13) when the vehicle is in operation.

Abstract: An anti-theft device for a pedal operated vehicles having a pedal lever. The device having a housing member adaptable for mounting within an interior of a vehicle near the pedal lever. The housing member having a first bore in which a rod is positioned to move interchangeably from a retracted position to an extended position to engage and disengage the pedal lever. The movement of the rod being operated by a linear actuator motor connecting thereto. The device further containing a means to lock the rod in the extracted position.

Abstract: A vehicle disabling system for terminating operation of a vehicle. The system includes a transmit unit for transmitting a command shutdown message and a command-receiver vehicle unit within the subject vehicle in communication with at least one operational component of the vehicle and capable of shutting down that component to thereby terminate vehicle operation. The transmit unit is operable only by an operator having a pre-authorized biometrics identification that is read, recognized, and confirmed by the transmit unit site prior to system activation. Both the transmit unit and the vehicle unit preferably are in separate communication with the global positioning satellite. With respect to the transmit unit, such satellite communication functions to record all transmit unit usage to thereby maintain and assure proper and appropriate operator use thereof.

Abstract: The present invention proposes an all-purpose burglarproof device of steering wheel and safety air bag. The burglarproof device of the present invention comprises a first plate body, a connecting plate body, a second plate body, and at least a locking device. The first plate body has a first hook element and a first opening. One side of the first plate body is pivotally joined with the connecting plate body. The second plate body has a second hook element and a second opening respectively symmetric to the first hook element and the first opening. Recessed slide grooves are formed on the bottom surface of the second plate body to match slide blocks of the connecting plate body. The locking device fixedly locks the burglarproof device over a steering wheel so that the burglarproof device can exactly cover above the position where the safety air bag is installed.

Abstract: The passenger detection apparatus according to the present invention is arranged to input to a displacement detecting means by force transmission thread and detect the displacement of a power point caused through contact with the passenger.

Abstract: A system is provided for sensing the presence of a standard component of a locking mechanism of a door of a trailer when the door is moved to the closed position and is secured. A sensor is provided on the trailer proximate to the locking mechanism. The sensor automatically reacts when a ferrous target comes within its sensing range. Control circuitry on the trailer processes and uses signals from the sensor to perform various functions.

Abstract: A vehicle ignition and remote keyless entry (RKE) assembly includes a key with an RKE transmitter and a first immobilizer coil. A key cylinder is configured to receive the key. A housing receives the key cylinder. A lightpipe is also received within the housing. An actuator is engageable with the key for connecting the key to a circuit board assembly. An RKE antenna insert molded into the housing or the lightpipe. A second immobilizer coil is insert molded into the housing or the lightpipe.

Abstract: An anti-theft device for a motor vehicle wherein a personal identification unit is carried by an authorized operator of said motor vehicle and includes means for identifying its location in the vicinity of the motor vehicle. A vehicle control unit mounted onto the motor vehicle, has a first and second condition with means for allowing operation of the motor vehicle when the control unit is in the first condition and means for inhibiting operation of the motor vehicle when said control unit is in the second condition and means for shifting the control unit into the second condition at a time subsequent to removal of the identification device from the vicinity of the motor vehicle and/or upon the occurrence of a predetermined condition of movement of the vehicle subsequent to removal of the identification device from the vicinity of the vehicle.

Abstract: A communication system (10) for a vehicle (12) includes a portable identification device (32) for keyless entry into the vehicle (12) and a tire sensor device (e.g., 48A) for providing information regarding a condition at a tire (e.g., 46A) of the vehicle (12). The portable identification device (32) includes an antenna (110) for receiving an interrogation signal (36) and for transmitting an identification indicative signal (38) responsive to the interrogation signal. The tire sensor device (48A) includes a sensor (158) for sensing at least one tire condition. The tire sensor device (48A) includes antennas (148 and 172) for receiving an initiation signal (e.g., 66A) and for transmitting a condition indicative signal (e.g., 50A) responsive to the initiation signal. The system (10) includes a transmitter arrangement (e.g., 72A, 28A, and 64A) for emitting the interrogation signal (36) at a first frequency and the initiation signal (66A) at a second, different frequency.

Abstract: A lock structure for a steering wheel. Pivot axles of the lock structure are used to connect a wheel with the seat of the steering wheel so that the steering wheel can be turned to a desired angle. A locking component fixes the angular position of the wheel. The entire steering wheel can make engagement between the wheel and a dashboard or other peripheral devices of the seat of the steering wheel and effectively disable the steering wheel.

Abstract: An anti-theft device for use with a pedal operated vehicle having a pedal lever. The device includes a housing member secured to the interior of a vehicle adjacent the pivotal point of the pedal lever. The housing member has a first bore housing a sliding rod. The rod moves from a retracted position to an extended position. In the extended position, the rod protrudes from the housing member for a predetermined distance and engages the pedal lever. A mechanically controlled pin engages the rod in the extended position to keep it in the extended position. With the pin engaging the rod, the rod prevents a driver from pressing down upon the pedal lever. Thus, disabling the operation of the vehicle. The normal operation of the pedal lever is restored when the pin disengages the rod, enabling the rod to freely retract into the first bore of the housing member. The movement of the rod is triggered by either air from an air compressor or by the force of a solenoid located behind the rod.

Abstract: A vehicle disabling system for terminating operation of a vehicle. The system first includes a transmit unit in communication with a global positioning satellite for conveying a command shutdown message via the satellite to a target vehicle. Second, the system includes a command-receiver vehicle unit in two-way communication with the transmit unit via the global positioning satellite such that a shutdown message from the transmit unit can reach the vehicle unit. The vehicle unit is in communication with at least one operational component of the vehicle and capable of shutting down that component upon receipt of a shutdown message from the transmit unit to thereby terminate vehicle operation.

Abstract: The present invention provides a seating arrangement for a motor vehicle including a steering wheel, the seating arrangement includes a lower seat member, a seatback member and a theft deterrent system. The seatback member is coupled to the lower seat member for articulation between a first position and a second position such that the seatback member is oriented generally vertical in the first position and an upper portion of the seatback member is adapted to be disposed adjacent to the steering wheel when the seatback member is in the second position. The theft deterrent system is operative for selectively locking the seatback member in the second position.

Abstract: The invention relates to a structural theft protection system for motor vehicles with a blocking control device (30) for releasing a motor control device (31), a code acquisition device (20, 21) that is connected to the blocking control device, and a device (32) connected to the blocking control device (30) for acquiring a vehicle use parameter (T, S), as well as with several locally fixed code takeover/output stations (10, 11), wherein the blocking control device (30) keeps the motor control device (31) in the release position only if the blocking control device (30) is fed a new release information by one of the locally fixed code takeover/output stations (10, 11), preferably at regular intervals.

Abstract: There is disclosed a theft prevention system for trailers interacting with the customary pneumatic trailer braking system having spring actuated parking brakes that apply when in absence of pressure in an air supply line to the trailer from a tractor-mounted compressed air tank. A normally closed solenoid valve is connected in series with the pressurized air supply line that supplies air to release the trailer parking brakes and a signal receiver adapted to receive an electrical signal from a transmitter in the tractor cab must be caused to actuate the solenoid to open the valve to release the trailer parking brakes. The signal from the transmitter to the receiver may be a dc, ac, or high frequency signal transmitted over the normally provided electrical cable from tractor to trailer or may be a radio transmitted signal wherein of the kind employed for garage door openers.

Abstract: The security to prevent theft of a central locking system for motor vehicles is improved by arranging a switch 34, 340, which can be switched by a coded signal, in the supply voltage lines 31 and/or 310 and/or 32 for driving an-actuating element.

Abstract: A vehicle having a central locking system for doors, tailgates or the like, as well as a device for illuminating an interior space of the vehicle, wherein the central locking system has a central control unit (1), and the central control unit (1) has an output (7) both for at least one actuating drive (2) and for the device for illuminating the interior space.

Abstract: A transponder system for a motor vehicle includes a transponder that transmits an access signal as a response to a query signal, and a signal processing device that transmits the query signal and receives the access signal, which the transponder transmits in response to the query signal. The signal processing device transmits the query signal as a transponder check signal if the motor vehicle is deactivated, a warning signal being generated if the access signal is received in response to the transponder check signal.

Abstract: The invention relates to a handle (10) for operating an opening leaf of a motor vehicle comprising an operating lever handle (14) which is intended to be moved by the user from a position of rest into a position for opening, and a transmission member (22) which normally moves with the lever handle (14) from a position of rest into a position of opening and which is connected to a linkage (64) for operating a lock, wherein the transmission member (22) is connected to the lever handle (14) by means of a disengageable mechanism (49, 22, 68, 66), the engagement of which is brought about by the vehicle antitheft unit and which, in its disengaged state, stores up at least some of the mechanical energy of opening applied to the lever handle by the user so as then to restore this energy to the transmission member during engagement.

Abstract: An improved and low cost electrical connection for use in circuit boards for key fobs incorporates a plurality of generally cylindrical pin members which are symmetric about a central axis. The use of the symmetric pin allows automatic insertion of the pin in that the orientation of the pin relative to the board is unimportant. The pin has a generally tapered transition portion which provides a contact surface for the battery, and this transition portion is also symmetric such that the orientation of the pin relative to the board is unimportant. Further, a stop face on the pin provides a stop for insertion of the pin into the circuit board such that the pin is at the desired height relative to the battery and such that the transition portion will provide electrical contact to the battery.

Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft system and method that operates the engine in a theft protection mode in which the engine is permitted to operate at idle or speed limited is provided. The method includes receiving an arm password, comparing the arm password with a stored password in the memory, and operating the engine in the theft protection mode when the arm password matches the stored password.

Abstract: A drive-away blocking device is provided for motorcycles having a side support. A sensor, which is mounted on the vehicle and has a linearly guided distance sensing device, and a control component, which is rigidly connected with the swivellable side support and which, at a site eccentric with respect to the axis of rotation of the side support, is connected by way of a restricted guidance with the distance sensing device of the sensor, are provided. In the operational support position of the side support, the sensor emits a signal to the electric or electronic engine control unit to prevent a driving-away of the motorcycle.

Abstract: An industrial truck includes a lifting apparatus, in particular a lifting mast, and a driver's workplace. To provide an industrial truck in which injuries caused by the operator touching the lifting apparatus can be effectively prevented, a safety device is provided which is effectively connected with a drive device of the lifting apparatus and/or of an actuator device of the lifting apparatus. In one advantageous embodiment, the safety device is effectively connected with a sensor device, whereby depending on the signal of the sensor device, the drive device of the lifting apparatus can receive a signal and/or the actuator device of the lifting apparatus can be enabled. The sensor device is located on a steering device, such as a steering wheel, and detects contact with the steering wheel by the driver's one hand.