Ignition Or Starting Circuit Lock Patents (Class 307/10.3)
  • Publication number: 20090140573
    Abstract: The security system provides an aircraft security system capable of protecting both single and multiple engine aircraft. Variations of the present system prevent unauthorized starting of protected aircraft and activate an alarm when engine starting it is attempted. Embodiments of the system draw no power from the aircraft when the security system is armed and in no way interferes with the normal starting or operation of the aircraft when the system is disarmed. Embodiments of the present system can activate an alarm when an aircraft's doors or panels are opened. Embodiments of the present invention can activate an alarm when installed equipment or other devices are tampered with or removed from their housings.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2008
    Publication date: June 4, 2009
    Inventor: Timothy J. Brooks
  • Patent number: 7539571
    Abstract: A non-contact neutral sensing apparatus with directional feedback in a vehicle directional control system for an agricultural or construction vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: CNH America LLC
    Inventors: Richard P. Strosser, Zachary Scmook, Douglas R. Otto, David G. Lutz
  • Patent number: 7532107
    Abstract: An anti-theft system for a vehicle includes schedule taking means for taking a usage schedule of the vehicle, wherein the usage schedule of the vehicle includes a future time for the vehicle to be used next, interval calculating means for calculating an interval between a present time and the future time, and security level setting means for setting a security level of the anti-theft system based on the interval between the present time and the future time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2009
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Tetsuya Hara, Shogo Kameyama, Masaaki Ozaki
  • Publication number: 20090108989
    Abstract: Disclosed is a system (1100) to permit access and operation of a machine (100). The machine has a ignition switch arrangement (1152) actuable by at least user manipulation thereof and arranged to enable operation of the machine and at least one immobilizer arrangement (1150) connected with the ignition switch arrangement and configured to selectively inhibit or permit operation of the machine via the switch arrangement. The system comprises a proximity detection arrangement (1110, 1120) associable with the machine and adapted for detection and reading of at least one proximity identification device (1132) carried or worn by a user of the machine. A control arrangement (1122) is responsive to detection by the proximity detection arrangement of a valid device to thereby disarm the immobilizer arrangement. The proximity detection arrangement is at least operationally independent of the ignition switch arrangement and any key actuator (1400) thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 10, 2006
    Publication date: April 30, 2009
    Applicant: KEYLESS LIFESTYLES PTY LTD
    Inventor: Peter Sinclair
  • Publication number: 20090101484
    Abstract: An anti-theft battery switchbox system, comprising: an ignition coil; a cutoff switch electrically connected to the ignition coil; a battery in electrical communication with the cutoff switch; and the cutoff switch selectively electrically couples the battery to the ignition coil. A remote control module in wireless communication with the cutoff switch controls the cutoff switch between an on mode and an off mode. The remote control module includes an actuator configured to permit a user to change between on/off modes. In addition, the actuator is not actuatable by a single linear impulse. The wireless communication between the remote control module and the cutoff switch comprises a unique signal feature. The unique signal feature includes a signal feature from the group of signal features consisting of frequency, amplitude modulation, frequency modulation, and signal key. The unique signal feature comprises a unique frequency and wherein the actuator comprises a knob.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 17, 2007
    Publication date: April 23, 2009
    Inventors: Ronny Frias, Raul Frias, JR.
  • Patent number: 7520533
    Abstract: Disclosed is a seat belt controlled ignition system for supplying power from a power source of an automobile to an ignition switch of the automobile. The seat belt controlled ignition system includes a seat belt and an electric circuit. The seat belt has a first strap member and a second strap member that are capable of being detachably attached with each other. Further, the electric circuit includes a switch mechanism disposed on at least one of the first strap member and the second strap member. Furthermore, the electric circuit is adapted to electrically connect the power source and the ignition switch. Upon detachably attaching the first strap member with the second strap member, the switch mechanism electrically connect the power source and the ignition switch, thereby supplying power from the power source of the automobile to the ignition switch of the automobile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Inventor: Orin Skaurud
  • Patent number: 7520264
    Abstract: An ignition circuit causes a magneto to continue to provide spark to an engine for a delay period after the ignition switch is switched off. After the delay period, the ignition circuit routes energy from the magneto to actuate a magneto disable switch to provide a path to ground for the magneto.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2009
    Assignee: Delta Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: David A. Straka
  • Patent number: 7518489
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for preventing vehicle theft and carjackings. There is provided a method comprising generating an immobilization profile based on the received current vehicle data, and sending the immobilization profile to the vehicle over a wireless communication network. There is also provided a method generally comprising determining current vehicle data regarding vehicle dynamics and driving conditions, obtaining an immobilization profile based on the received current vehicle data, and adjusting vehicle throttle and/or braking (e.g., friction-type braking, engine braking, etc.) so that vehicle speed approximates the immobilization profile. In one embodiment, the above described methods further comprise communicating with the vehicle operator prior to implementing vehicle immobilization profiles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2009
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Scott David Nelson, David Michael Kirsch
  • Patent number: 7508090
    Abstract: When a driver of a vehicle issues a command to stop an engine, an in-vehicle unit communicates with a portable device. When collation of ID codes of the in-vehicle unit and the portable device is OK, a collation ECU permits stopping of the engine. When the result of ID-code collation is NG, the ECU prohibits stopping of the engine. When a vehicle passenger has taken out the portable device from a vehicle compartment, once the engine of the vehicle is stopped, the engine can no longer be restarted. By prohibiting the stop of the engine based on the NG result of ID-code collation, however, it is possible to prevent a state in which the engine cannot be restarted. It is preferred to allow starting of the engine irrespective of the ID code collation, when the ECU stores an engine stall occurring previously.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 24, 2009
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventor: Kazuhiro Nakashima
  • Patent number: 7501714
    Abstract: To dispense with a key cylinder and permit or stop operation of an engine with ease, an engine starting system of the present invention comprises a power source activation unit, an engine control unit, a propelled-object-side equipment, a steering wheel locking unit, a switch, and a portable equipment. The portable equipment includes a transmitter-receiver, a memory circuit, and a control circuit. The propelled-object-side equipment includes a transmitter-receiver, a memory circuit, and a control circuit. The propelled-object-side equipment transmits an inquiry signal to the portable equipment in response to an actuation signal of the switch, and the portable equipment transmits an answer signal corresponding to the inquiry signal. If the answer signal corresponds to the inquiry signal, the control circuit unlocks the steering wheel locking unit, permits the engine to be started, and performs various operations depending on how many times and how long the switch is actuated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2005
    Date of Patent: March 10, 2009
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Toshiaki Hata
  • Patent number: 7496431
    Abstract: In order to satisfy the key interlock regulation in a system for keyless starting of a motor vehicle by an ID transducer carried by the vehicle user and a control element (2) for starting and stopping the engine, a mechanism is provided such that the engine can only be stopped when the gear position “P” for Park is engaged but the engine can be stopped at a vehicle speed (v) equal to or greater than a preset threshold speed (v-threshold) without the gear position “P” for Park being engaged, so that the driver can turn off the engine in emergencies even while driving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2009
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Rudolf Ehrmaier
  • Publication number: 20090045675
    Abstract: The invention disclosed is a device and system for disallowing unauthorized egress of a movable from a location comprising a wire transmitting a transmission signal, a receiver on the movable for receiving the transmission signal, a detector for detecting the movable, a movement inhibiting device in communication with the receiver causing inhibition of movement of the movable upon the receiver receiving the transmission signal, and a mechanism for disabling the inhibition, the mechanism activated at least when the movable is detected by the detector.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2008
    Publication date: February 19, 2009
    Inventor: Gerald J. Novak
  • Patent number: 7492250
    Abstract: An on-vehicle controller performs smart control for transmitting a transmission request signal to a predetermined area and for unlocking a door of a vehicle based on a return signal transmitted by a portable device receiving the transmission request signal, security control for providing a warning if improper conduct to the vehicle is detected, remote keyless entry control for locking or unlocking the door according to a manual operation signal, which is transmitted from the portable device according to button manipulation thereof, and immobilizer control for permitting an engine start if an identification code transmitted from a transponder of the portable device coincides with an identification code stored in the vehicle. If a mode switch is switched to an off position, the controller is switched to a power-saving mode for performing only the immobilizer control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2009
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Koji Yoshida, Akinori Komura
  • Patent number: 7479711
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling cycling of high voltage contactors is provided. In one embodiment, the method includes generating a first contactor command and activating the contactor in response to the first contactor command. A timer is initiated upon generation of the first contactor command. The method also includes determining whether a second contactor command should be generated subsequent to the generation of the first contactor command. The method further includes activating the contactor in response to the second contactor command being generated when the timer has expired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2009
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: David Mack
  • Patent number: 7477136
    Abstract: A vehicle theft deterrent system includes a smart card key system. The theft deterrent system is adapted to output a warning sound from a buzzer upon detection of a vibration of a predetermined value or larger by a vibration sensor. The buzzer prevented from operating at a time of unlocking a seat or unlocking a fuel lid. When an on-board device detects that a seat unlocking switch, for example, has been operated and upon success of mutual authentication after communication with a portable electronic key, the on-board device switches the state of operation of a buzzer into a non-operable state. Therefore, when a user who carries a regular portable electronic key does not want operation of the buzzer, the buzzer can be positively switched to the non-operable state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2009
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takeshi Konno, Tadashi Onozuka
  • Patent number: 7471013
    Abstract: A smart-key-start-up device for an automobile includes a control module configured to receive signals about an operation state of the automobile; a lock-preventing circuit controlled by the control module; a knob housing; a user-operable start-up knob disposed in the knob housing; and a slidable projection on the start-up knob, controlled by the lock prevention circuit based on the operation state of the automobile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 30, 2008
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Ja Yoon Goo
  • Patent number: 7462953
    Abstract: Prenotification information of releasing prohibition of an engine operation is stored in an EEPROM in an interval. The interval is after that a lock controller commands a steering lock to be operable. The interval is before that an engine controller switches an engine operation prohibiting signal to be in a prohibition releasing condition. The engine operation prohibiting signal may change from the prohibition releasing condition to the prohibition setting condition after an engine starting controller starts an engine. In this condition, the engine is stopped, or is continuously operated in accordance with the prenotifying information stored in the EEPROM.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2008
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Hodaka Kamiya, Noriaki Terashima
  • Patent number: 7423353
    Abstract: A propellant anti-theft system can not only perform permission/stop of operation of a vehicle in a simple and easy manner without using a key, but also suppress the theft and reuse of vehicle parts. The system includes a portable device and an on-board device installed on the vehicle, and further includes an engine control device, a switch and various units, all of which are connected to the on-board device. The on-board device includes a transmitter receiver, a storage circuit and a control circuit. The portable device includes a transmitter receiver, a storage circuit and a control circuit. The control circuit of the on-board device compares common data possessed by itself and common data stored in microprocessor units of the engine control device and the various units, and unlocks a steering locking section included in the various units and outputs an engine starting permission signal to the engine control device when both of the individual pieces of common data coincide with each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2008
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Toshiaki Hata
  • Publication number: 20080197701
    Abstract: An intermittent driving system includes a control target circuit to determine and notify a switching timing of ON/OFF of a power supply, and a control circuit to send a power supply ON signal for turning on the power supply or a power supply OFF signal for turning off the power supply of the control target circuit based on the switching timing decided by the control target circuit. The control target circuit is an in-vehicle monitoring circuit including a monitoring camera to monitor a in-vehicle and the control target circuit determines the switching timing based on a monitoring result of the monitoring camera.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 15, 2008
    Publication date: August 21, 2008
    Applicant: NEC Electronics Corporation
    Inventor: Takashi Fuchigami
  • Patent number: 7394350
    Abstract: An on-vehicle controller performs smart control for transmitting a transmission request signal to a predetermined area and for unlocking a door of a vehicle based on a return signal transmitted by a portable device receiving the transmission request signal, security control for providing a warning if improper conduct to the vehicle is detected, remote keyless entry control for locking or unlocking the door according to a manual operation signal, which is transmitted from the portable device according to button manipulation thereof, and immobilizer control for permitting an engine start if an identification code transmitted from a transponder of the portable device coincides with an identification code stored in the vehicle. If a mode switch is switched to an off position, the controller is switched to a power-saving mode for performing only the immobilizer control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 1, 2008
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Koji Yoshida, Akinori Komura
  • Patent number: 7388472
    Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft method for use in a vehicle having an internal combustion engine, an ignition, a starter, fuel injectors, a memory, engine controller, and a real clock time function in the engine controller, said engine controller being configured to operate the engine in a plurality of different modes including a theft protection mode, comprises; a) comparing a lock window definition time with an engine controller real clock time; b) operating the engine in a theft protection mode when the real clock time matches the lock window definition time; c) determining whether the engine is running, and; d) controlling the operation of the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Assignee: Detroit Diesel Corporation
    Inventor: Richard John Mandle
  • Patent number: 7365633
    Abstract: A vehicle remote control apparatus has: A) a first transmitter for outputting an authentication request signal to a mobile device including a radio terminal assigned with an identification code special to a vehicle and outputting an authentication response signal corresponding to the identification code; B) a second transmitter for outputting an interference wave to cancel the authentication request signal at the same time as the first transmitter transmits the authentication request signal; C) a receiver for receiving the authentication response signal output from the mobile device in response to the authentication request signal, thereby checking authenticity of the authentication response signal; and D) a controller for controlling operation of an on-vehicle equipment based on the result of authentication of the authentication response signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Inventors: Makoto Inoue, Tsutomu Maeda, Masaaki Ochi
  • Patent number: 7365450
    Abstract: An electric cutoff circuit for preventing overheating of a load. The current shutoff circuit includes an FET connected to a motor circuit. A relay fault detection circuit is connected to the motor circuit to detect potential at the motor circuit. A CPU sends a control signal to a relay. The CPU determines whether a fault has occurred in the relay based on the control signal sent to the relay and the detection of the relay fault detection circuit. When determining that a fault has occurred in the relay, the CPU opens the FET to configure an open circuit with the motor circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2008
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventors: Toshihiro Nagae, Kazuya Otani, Toru Maeda
  • Patent number: 7362006
    Abstract: A steering lock for ensuring an unlock state when it is imperative that the steering lock remain in the unlock state. The steering lock includes a motor for generating drive force that engages and locks a lock bar with a steering shaft. The steering lock includes an ECU. When shifting the steering lock to the unlock state from a lock state, the ECU controls the motor to generate drive force acting in a direction to urge the lock bar to disengage from the steering shaft. The ECU continuously controls the motor to generate drive force acting in the direction to urge the lock bar to disengage from the steering shaft even after the lock bar has moved to the unlock position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 1, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2008
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventors: Kazuya Otani, Hiroshi Mori, Daisuke Someda, Tomoo Kakegawa, Masachika Kamiya, Noriyasu Onishi
  • Patent number: 7355299
    Abstract: An active keyed locking system (10) for a vehicle (12) includes a keyed actuated device (58). A position sensor (56) is coupled to the keyed device (58) and generates a position signal indicative of position of the keyed device (58). A controller (64) is electrically coupled to the position sensor (56) and enables a vehicle component in response to the position signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2008
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Riad Ghabra, Bruce Banter
  • Patent number: 7346439
    Abstract: An in-vehicle monitor detects the occurrence of a meta-event related to the operation of a vehicle, such as the vehicle's operation over a maximum allowable speed, operation in a prohibited geographic area, operation during a specific time frame, or combinations thereof. The monitor signals a server via a wireless data link, and the server determines an appropriate deferred action to be taken by an in-vehicle controller, such as disabling the engine, limiting vehicle speed, and locking vehicle doors, upon occurrence of a second meta-event including conditions such as time delays, vehicle speed and direction, and vehicle location. The system can thereby allow orderly and safe control of vehicle functions for purposes such as terminating a pursuit, enforcing legal sentences and operator restrictions, and controlling fleet vehicle operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2008
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: William Kress Bodin
  • Patent number: 7342324
    Abstract: An electronic security apparatus for a vehicle being capable of controlling the performance of a vehicle function in response to a user attempting to start the engine of the vehicle. The system being capable of controlling the performance of the vehicle function in response to being provided with a first security code from an electronic key (12). The security system has a secured mode of operation in which the system may be set to a limited authorization state in which performance of the vehicle function is enabled. The system also has an unsecured mode of operation in which the user performing the action enables performance of the vehicle function irrespective of whether or not one or more conditions are met.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 11, 2008
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Chris Bottomley
  • Publication number: 20080028807
    Abstract: An ignition lock for a motor vehicle includes a carrier element for holding an ignition key that is inserted in the ignition lock. The carrier element is movable along a longitudinal axis of the ignition lock. The carrier element pushes a slide bar from a blocking position to an unblocking position when the carrier element moves along the longitudinal axis. A latch bar, when in its latching position, restricts a movement of the carrier element along the longitudinal axis and, when in its unlatching position, allows the carrier element to move along the longitudinal axis. When the latch bar is in its unlatching position and the slide bar is in its blocking position, the slide bar prevents the latch bar from moving from the unlatching position to the latching position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2006
    Publication date: February 7, 2008
    Inventors: Hans-Joachim Frohne, Ralf Borngraber, Steffen Buhl, Dennis Messmer, Thomas Schwarz
  • Publication number: 20070279184
    Abstract: A method for sending and receiving transmissions for a remote keyless entry and immobilizer facilitates operation of multiple transmitters with multiple vehicles. A common secret key code stored in each transmitter and vehicle controller of the system is utilized to encrypt and decrypt information and data transmitted from the transmitter to the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 22, 2007
    Publication date: December 6, 2007
    Applicant: SIEMENS VDO AUTOMOTIVE CORPORATION
    Inventors: Tejas B. Desai, James P. Brecht, Sanjaya Dash
  • Patent number: 7305284
    Abstract: A vehicle has a reference receiver installed at an outer edge position of a desired detection area in a compartment to receive a signal transmitted from a transmitter in the compartment. The level of signal transmission output of the transmitter is adjusted based on the reception result of the reference receiver. It becomes possible to adjust the signal transmission output of the transmitter in the compartment so as to obtain a desired detection area at all times irrespective of change of the detection area reached by the request signal from the transmitter determined by the compartment or irrespective of variation in the electromagnetic wave environment in which the vehicle is placed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2005
    Date of Patent: December 4, 2007
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kentaro Teshima, Haruyuki Tsuzuki
  • Patent number: 7292916
    Abstract: An engine (9) of a vehicle (1) is started by first inserting an ignition key (3) into an ignition lock (2) of the vehicle (1). The vehicle (1) can be started by merely pressing the inserted ignition key, whereby said ignition key (3) is further inserted into the ignition lock (2) and takes in a nearly flush position with a dashboard (4) within which the ignition lock is disposed when the motor runs such that the ignition key (3) does not constitute a potential hazard in the event of an accident. The engine (9) is stopped by once again pressing the ignition key (3). Once the engine (9) has been stopped, the ignition key (3) is brought into a position in which the same can be simply removed from the ignition lock (2) by the driver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2007
    Assignee: Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Ralf Borngräber, Hans-Joachim Frohne
  • Publication number: 20070247280
    Abstract: Aimed at providing an electronic authentication system for a motorcycle excellent in the handlability and operability, operations of turning an ignition knob, and of opening a accommodation lid and a fuel lid, disposed in the front portion of the vehicle, are permitted, when agreement of ID information was judged. The steering bar was made unlockable by operating the ignition knob after agreement of the ID information was judged, and the seat was made unlockable by further operating the ignition knob.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2007
    Publication date: October 25, 2007
    Applicant: SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventor: Tsuyoshi Nakamura
  • Patent number: 7285872
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2007
    Assignee: 2TIS Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: Carl Ellingsworth, Jay Ripley
  • Patent number: 7277007
    Abstract: An automotive keyless smart-start assembly 10 for use in an automobile 22 is provided including an automotive engine 18 having an operating condition and a stopped condition. An ignition controller 16, having a locked state and an unlocked state, is in communication with the automotive engine 18. A receptacle bin 20 is mounted to the automobile 22 and is in communication with the ignition controller 16. The receptacle bin 20 is movable between a closed position 34 and an open position 32. A portable electronic transmitter element 12, including a security code 14, communicates the security code 14 to the ignition controller 16 upon being positioned within the receptacle bin 20. The ignition controller 16 verifies the security code 14 and moves to the unlocked state upon verification. The receptacle bin 20 moves to the closed position 34 upon verification.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 2, 2007
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Nantz John, Tom Tang, Riad Ghabra, Ronald King, Thomas LeMense, Mike Fawaz, David Hein
  • Publication number: 20070222563
    Abstract: A vehicle security control system receives from a separated communication device a demand signal to prohibit or permit engine operation via an immobilizer. The vehicle control device includes a display for displaying information on the engine operation, a communication unit for receiving the demand signal from the separated communication device and a remote security ECU for providing a control signal according to the demand signal, an immobilizer ECU for setting or unsetting the immobilizer according to the control signal. The immobilizer ECU prohibits the display from displaying the information on the engine operation when the immobilizer ECU unsets the immobilizer even when the separated communication device provides the demand signal to prohibit engine operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2007
    Publication date: September 27, 2007
    Applicant: Denso Corporation
    Inventor: Toshio Shimomura
  • Patent number: 7250693
    Abstract: A steering wheel lock apparatus having high reliability. The steering wheel lock apparatus (1) includes a lock pin (21), which engages a steering wheel (5), a motor (23), which moves the lock pin, and a control circuit (31), which controls the motor. The control circuit includes a power supply line (72b), which provides locking current to the motor for locking the steering wheel. A breaker circuit (61) selectively breaks the power supply line when a user operates an ignition switch knob (81) to start the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2007
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventors: Masaki Hayashi, Hirokazu Shamoto, Masaki Yoshino, Toshihiro Nagae
  • Patent number: 7248143
    Abstract: The system has a uniform system architecture that is designed for an access authorization request both with and without the use of a transponder. Should a transponder be used, only a corresponding transponder must be fitted in the key that can interact with an immobilizer coil specially provided for this in a receiving unit of the motor vehicle. In this case, the corresponding system requirements have also already been taken into consideration in the system architecture. As a result, the different system requirements for access and right of use systems to a great extent provide flexibility.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2007
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Ulrich Emmerling, Axel Müller
  • Patent number: 7227447
    Abstract: A switch device is provided that ensures formation of a communicable area by a coil antenna. The switch device includes an ignition switch operated by an operator for driving an engine starter, a decorative cap arranged to surround the ignition switch and having an ornamental surface, and the coil antenna arranged adjacent to the decorative cap for transmitting a transponder-driving radio wave. The decorative cap includes a transmittable area that can transmit the transponder-driving radio wave therethrough. The transmittable area is formed in a part of the decorative cap excluding the ornamental surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2007
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventors: Kiyokazu Ohtaki, Takayuki Hiramitsu, Daisuke Kawamura, Tomoyuki Funayama, Koji Iwamoto
  • Patent number: 7221065
    Abstract: A power window system includes an occupant existence determination unit and a power supply unit. The occupant existence determination unit determines whether an occupant is in the compartment or outside the passenger compartment, by receiving a signal from a portable device held by the occupant. The power supply unit supplies a power to a window driving unit when the occupant existence determination unit determines that the occupant is in the compartment and when the vehicle ignition key is in an OFF state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshinori Amagasa, Tatsuya Michishige
  • Patent number: 7222006
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for determining the duration a motor vehicle engine may operate while operator authorization is verified in response to an ignition request. In one embodiment the method includes the steps of decrementing a pre-authorization timer from a first predetermined time limit and a maximum authorization timer from a second predetermined time limit in response to the ignition request. Also upon receipt of the ignition request an authorization process is initiated. Decrementing of the pre-authorization timer is halted in response to active operation of the starter motor of the motor vehicle, and operation of the motor vehicle is inhibited if either the pre-authorization timer or the maximum authorization timer decrements to zero before completion of the authorization operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: David T. Proefke, Thomas M. Forest, Thomas W. Pfeffer
  • Patent number: 7216616
    Abstract: An engine-starting device for an engine. The device includes a counter that provides a counting value based on an initiation of engine cranking; and a cranking control system that prohibits engine cranking if the counting value of the counter passes a cranking prohibition threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2007
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Tesuya Asada, Takashi Eguchi, Junsuke Ino, Rei Koike
  • Patent number: 7205679
    Abstract: A remote start control system for a vehicle including an engine, a transmission connected to the engine and a data communications bus carrying transmission position data related to a selected transmission position, may include a remote start transmitter and a vehicle remote start controller. The vehicle remote start controller may be connected to the data communications bus for starting the engine based upon the transmission position data carried by the data communications bus and signals from the remote start transmitter. Alternately, or additionally, the data communications bus may carry engine speed data, vehicle brake position data, or vehicle security data. Accordingly, the engine may be started responsive to the engine speed data, the vehicle brake position data, or the vehicle security data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2007
    Assignee: Omega Patents, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Flick
  • Patent number: 7196432
    Abstract: In the device a controllable switch is built into the control device which enables the start authorization and by means of which the supply voltage with which this controllable switch is supplied can be switched off. To check a start authorization a diagnosis can be undertaken which is realized with known resistance elements in the voltage supply line between identification device holder and control device. This allows the voltage drops across the elements to be compared with the corresponding required values. Simple short circuiting of the starter or the ignition is thus no longer possible since this would be detected by the control device as a result of the changes in voltage drop. In addition a fault in the supply voltage or the feed lines can be definitively detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 19, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2007
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Ulrich Emmerling, Axel Müller
  • Patent number: 7187266
    Abstract: A switch device that occupies less space and that can be manufactured at a lower cost. The switch device includes an operation switch operated by an operator for driving an actuator and a coil antenna used to output a transponder-driving radio wave. The coil antenna is arranged adjacent to the operation switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventors: Hiroyasu Hasegawa, Kiyokazu Ohtaki, Tomoyuki Funayama, Koji Iwamoto
  • Patent number: 7183666
    Abstract: An object of the present invention is to prevent a start-up locked state from being released by a third party other than a rightful driver. After a movable body 31 has been set in a state of halted operations (a start-up locked state) by a start-up lock setting unit 830, a rightful driver must contact a manager on a terminal device 11 side when this driver forgets a password or hands over to another driver. Having received contact, the manager transmits a start-up lock release command from the terminal 11 side to the movable body 31 via communication units 1 (see FIG. 1), whereby the state of halted operations (start-up locked state) in the movable body 31 is released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2007
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Shuji Arakawa, Tadashi Morita
  • Patent number: 7176588
    Abstract: A starter drive device which drives a starter motor by, upon actuation of a starter switch, turning a starter relay ON and OFF via an electronic control device, wherein the electronic control device includes: an interface circuit; a power source control circuit; a calculation device and a delay circuit; a buffer; an addition circuit; a latch circuit; a first pull up circuit; a second pull up circuit; and wherein, if the power source control circuit has detected a drop of voltage of the power source when the starter motor is being driven, along with stopping the calculation device, the buffer disconnects the calculation device from the latch circuit, and controls the starter relay by operating the driver circuit via the latch circuit based upon the signals from the interface circuit and the second pull up circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Assignees: Keihin Corporation, Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takuya Yahagi, Takashi Hisaki, Shuji Tomimatsu, Satoshi Arai, Shigeki Baba
  • Patent number: 7167084
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for rendering electronic keys left behind in a vehicle temporarily inactive. The apparatus comprises a vehicle security control module in wireless communication with the electronic keys, and having operatively coupled together a receiver, a processor, non-volatile memory and a short-range transmitter. When the module receives a valid lock command from any source it sends a short-range interrogation signal to keys within the vehicle. Left-behind keys respond and send their unique ID(s) to the module's receiver. The processor obtains the unique ID(s) from the receiver and sets one or more inhibit flags in memory or equivalent to identify those keys as left-behind keys. The processor thereafter ignores commands from such left-behind keys, thereby rendering them temporarily inoperative until a valid unlock command is received form another source, whereupon the processor clears the inhibit flags from memory and restores the left-behind keys to active status.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: David T. Proefke, Thomas E. Utter
  • Patent number: 7148787
    Abstract: A remote keyless entry (RKE) circuit (100) and method reduces the amount of current draw by duty cycling the RKE circuit (100) to ensure that a microcontroller (104) in the RKE circuit (100) is awakened only when needed to evaluate RF data. A total operating period for the RKE circuit (100) includes a transient period, a data monitoring period, and a sleep period. The RKE circuit (100) includes a pulse blocking circuit (109) that prevents a receiver stabilization pulse from waking up the microcontroller (104). If no data is received during the data monitoring period, the microcontroller (104) remains in a sleep mode for the remainder of the operating period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Siemens VDO Automotive Corporation
    Inventors: Scott J. Lucy, Joseph E. Ploucha, Brian Farrell, Torsten Frerichs
  • Patent number: 7145435
    Abstract: A security system using a transmitting signal of a wireless communication terminal and a method using the same are disclosed. In order for security certification, a specific information and numerical information included in the signal transmitted for dialing from the wireless communication terminal are compared with the specific information and numerical information that have been stored in advance. The present invention provides convenience in security certification, and has an advantage in that double the security can be realized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Inventor: Sug-Bae Kim
  • Patent number: RE40367
    Abstract: This invention relates to a remote lock operation apparatus for a light vehicle having a bar handle and a switch case and having no cabin. One objective of the invention is to make it possible for the infrared receiver of the remote lock operation apparatus to cover a range of directivity without being influenced by the seat or the vehicle body rear portion. Another objective is to protect the infrared receiver from the weather and mischief. These objectives are achieved by having an infrared receiver provided on a switch case, with a switch operation element provided on a steering bar handle of a vehicle, thereby protecting the infrared receiver from potential damage while at the same time positioning it so that it can be easily operable by a passenger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2004
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Takeshi Konno