Abstract: A theft resistant vehicle system (10) includes a security system (12) adapted to generate a first control signal as a function of the substantial meeting of a parameter for activating and a second control signal in response to a failure to meet the parameter. An inverter (22) is adapted to receive the control signals and is adapted to deactivate in response to the second control signal and is further adapted to generate an alternating current power signal in response to the first control signal. An electric machine (24) is adapted to receive the alternating current power signal.

Abstract: Car-used burglarproof lock capable of controlling power on/off of the car. By means of unlocking/locking the lock core of the burglarproof lock, a remote controlling unit hidden in the burglarproof lock is controlled. By means of remote controlling unit, a receiving controlling unit disposed in a hidden place of the car is controlled to identify and go into standby cut off state (or immediate cut off state) or go into power on state for discharging standby cut off state (or immediate cut off state). Accordingly, the car-used burglarproof lock has both mechanical burglarproof effect and electronic standby cut off (or immediate cut off) burglarproof effect.

Abstract: 1. Electronic starter and steering locking device.

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: A plug-in replacement relay for automotive use incorporating a security system (43) to control the actuation of the relay is disclosed. The plug-in replacement relay derives its power supply from bridge rectifier(s) (33, 37) having their inputs connected across the coil socket connector (pins 85, 86) and/or the switching contacts (11) (pins 30, 87), allowing polarity free connection. An inhibitor circuit (31) ensures that the contacts (11) are actuated only when intended.

Abstract: Disclosed is a keyless system for operating and accessing a vehicle such as an automobile, truck, minivan, bus, airplane, train, boat, etc. Preferably, the user's fingerprint is his or her “right of passage” into the vehicle. The system includes fingerprint triggered access to the physical inside space of a vehicle and along with other commands, preferably voice activated and/or card/card reader, control the vehicle's various systems. The system is designed to perform optimally in less than perfect environmental conditions and is preferably provided with its own source of energy. The system also includes a controller and interface in communication with a fingerprint sensor.

Abstract: A theft prevention device, having a first switch capable of movement between a first position and a second position, the first position electrically connecting an electrical system to a power supply of a vehicle and the device includes a switch bypass circuit being electrically connected to said power supply when the switch is in the second position, the switch bypass circuit allows a current from the power supply to reach the electrical system, this current is less than the current traveling through the switch when the switch is in the first position, the current is sufficiently large enough to maintain volatile memories of electrical components in a vehicle.

Abstract: This is a system for preventing vehicle theft that can be activated and deactivated from a touch-tone phone. The alarm activation code and alarm deactivation code are capable of activating a plurality of switches through the feedback loop. When the car is stolen, the owner can activate the signal code, which will disable the engine once the thief turns off the engine. After the stolen car is restored, the owner can deactivate the engine-disabling code and drive the car as usual.

Abstract: A safety switch apparatus for use in a remote starter system of a vehicle, the apparatus having a magnetically actuated electrical switch for disabling the starter system when the switch is closed and a transmission of the vehicle is in-gear, and a magnet for urging the switch into a switched position when the magnet is adjacent thereto. The switch is securely mountable at a fixed mounting position on a frame of the vehicle, and the magnet is directly and securely mountable on a translatable portion of a user actuator for shifting the transmission. The translatable portion of the user actuator is operatively interposed between the transmission and a shifter handle portion of the user actuator. Both the fixed mounting position and the translatable portion are substantially concealed and substantially exterior relative to an interior seating compartment of the vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle immobilizer locks the transmission shift lever in the park position. A key has an identification code and a transmitter. When the key is inserted into a key cylinder and used to rotate the key cylinder to start the vehicle, a code detector reads the key code. The key code is then compared to a prestored key code. If the key codes match, a first detection signal is generated. A brake detector detects when the brake pedal has been depressed and generates a second detection signal. When both the first and second detection signals are generated, the shift lever is unlocked and an engine ECU is enabled so that the engine may be started and the transmission may be engaged.

Abstract: A motor vehicle verification and control system providing a remote activator enabling locating, monitoring and disabling of an equipped vehicle, a receiver for analog, digital, broadband, satellite (i.e. GPS), green light and/or infrared signal technologies, a remote infrared target for disabling an equipped vehicle, an interactive license plate coupled with the remote infrared target for disabling means, and a license scanner that enables law enforcement to regulate the speed, operation and traveling distance of a vehicle.

Abstract: A golf cart anti-theft device for locking the brake pedal in the depressed position includes a solenoid member with an extrudable shaft and wedge that is wired into the keyed vehicle on-off switch electrical circuit. When the key is on, the solenoid is activated and the shaft remains in the withdrawn position. When the key is in the off position the solenoid is deactivated and the shaft extrudes to force the wedge against the vehicle break arm solenoid bearing member, brake pedal arm and the vehicle floorboard bottom surface, preventing the brake pedal arm from moving from the depressed position. The device can be retrofitted to existing carts or installed in the original manufacture, and can eliminate the need for a parking brake. The device can also be adapted for an above floorboard installation.

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. Also there is provided a holding circuit for permitting continued operation of the prime mover until the recognized key is shut off regardless of the condition of the controller.

Abstract: A start control apparatus has a steering lock mechanism, which includes a lock pin and a lock control unit. The lock pin is selectively engaged and disengaged from the steering shaft. The lock control unit controls the lock pin. The start control apparatus further includes a portable communication device, a verification control unit, which communicates with the portable communication device, a power source control unit, which control power supply, an engine control unit, which controls the engine, a lock state detecting switch, which detects an engaged state and a disengaged state of the lock pin. The lock control unit and the power source control unit monitor detection signals from the lock state detecting switch. The engine is permitted to be started on condition that the control units acknowledge that the lock bar is in the disengaged state.

Abstract: An apparatus and method designed for use with a vehicle that remotely activates an audio warning device prior to disabling the ability for the driver to start the vehicle. The apparatus is installed in the vehicle and includes a special pager receiver that decodes paging messages sent from a paging transmitter site. The pager receiver is electrically connected to a controller which interprets the coded message. An in-vehicle digital radio transmitter then sends a wireless transmission to digital radio receivers installed in the vehicle. Each digital radio receiver is incorporated in a package that includes an electrical connection to an electromagnetic relay. The relay is plugged into the electrical circuits of the vehicle which activate certain devices or functions, such as the starter motor, ignition system, power door locks, headlamps, horn, and other system that may use electrical relays.

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: A starting system for an engine of an automotive vehicle having an ignition system includes a fingerprint sensor (26) that generates a fingerprint signal. A memory has a plurality of authorized fingerprint signals stored therein. A switch (28) is used to generate a start signal. A controller is coupled to the ignition system (20), the fingerprint sensor (26), the memory (18), and switch (28). The controller compares the fingerprint signal with the authorized fingerprint signal stored in the memory and enables the ignition system in response to the start signal and the fingerprint signal being substantially equal to an authorized fingerprint signal.

Abstract: A theft resistant vehicle system (10) includes a security system (12) adapted to generate a first control signal as a function of the substantial meeting of a parameter for activating and a second control signal in response to a failure to meet the parameter. An inverter (22) is adapted to receive the control signals and is adapted to deactivate in response to the second control signal and is further adapted to generate an alternating current power signal in response to the first control signal. An electric machine (24) is adapted to receive the alternating current power signal.

Abstract: A device for communicating a signal with respect to an authorization system for actuating a motor vehicle, and the device is relatively portable with respect to the motor vehicle. The device includes a first housing part, a cavity extending into the first housing part, a member substantially filling the cavity, a transponder being embedded in the member, and a second housing part connecting to the first housing part. The first housing part has an exterior surface and includes a first material. The cavity includes a first cavity portion and a second cavity portion. The first cavity portion extends into the first housing part from a first opening in the exterior surface, and the second cavity portion extends in the first housing part between a second opening in the exterior surface and the first cavity portion. The member includes a second material that is different from the first material, and the member has a portion at least partially visibly at the first opening.

Abstract: A non-contact chip lock and a battery-free key for unlocking the lock are provided. When the insertion portion of the key is inserted into the cylindrical body of the lock, the inductive choke in the key is induced by the magnetic field generated by the transmitting coil unit in the lock and together with the transmitting coil unit to form a flyback transformer. The induced inductive choke generates induced current that enables normal operation of the key without any battery, and bi-directional transmission of encrypted data between the key and the lock.

Abstract: A locking mechanism for locking and/or unlocking a door, window or the like comprises a barrel having a number of apertures, each aperture being connected to a light emitter or a light sensor via an optic fibre. A key for insertion into the barrel is also provided with a number of apertures internally connected via optic fibres for optically connecting selected ones of the apertures in the barrel together. When the key is in place, continuous light paths are provided between the light emitters and the light sensors, the latter being arranged to actuate the locking mechanism.

Abstract: The method of secure data transmission between an immobilizer (1) of a motor vehicle's anti-theft device and a motor control unit (2) includes storing an internal key (20′) in both immobilizer and the motor control unit; generating a random bit sequence (21) from existing sensor data in the motor control unit in response to a wake-up signal (24) from the immobilizer (1); transmitting the random bit sequence from the motor control unit to the immobilizer and storing it therein; producing a key code (22) with the random bit sequence (21) and the internal key (20′) in both control units; encoding a message (23) including redundant data with said key code (22) in the immobilizer; sending the message (23) to the motor control unit; reading and checking the message (23) in the motor control unit by means of the redundant data contained in the message (23) to verify correct encoding and transmitting a release signal to the motor control unit when the encoding is correct.

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 device and a method for reproducing information in a motor vehicle include, as part of a keyless access system and/or drive authorization system, a portable transponder for sending a code via a transceiver to a control device arranged in the motor vehicle. Access authorization and/or drive authorization are granted if the control device receives a valid code. A display is arranged in the vehicle. The display displays specific data based on an output signal from the control device.

Abstract: The present invention provides an electronic key system for a vehicle which is a type of starting the engine with pressing a button switch and can be operated at familiar mechanical movements thus easing the user or driver of an unfamiliar conception as well as improved in the operability and the protection against theft. When a quick-start switch mounted on the steering wheel is pressed after the code identification is valid, a CPU switches on the start switch to energize a starter motor. The CPU judges from a change in the voltage of an alternator that the engine starts running. As the engine runs, an ignition switch is automatically turned to the II position with a valet key inserted. The engine can be stopped by the valet key turning to the 0 position. In the parking state, the valet key may be detached from or accommodated in the ignition switch.

Abstract: In the construction machinery equipped with an engine, a hydraulic control unit and a machine controller, there is provided an antitheft device for the construction machinery, which can prevent the engine from starting and the hydraulic control unit from working with reliability no matter how the starter circuit of the engine is modified. The initial state of the machine controller is so set that the fuel injection by a fuel injection unit of the engine is halted and that the operations of control units in the hydraulic control unit are halted, and an antitheft control unit is provided to release the initial state of the machine controller upon receiving a release signal from the antitheft control unit.

Abstract: An electronic automotive anti-theft device that prevents unintentional operation. The anti-theft device includes a lock pin for engaging and disengaging at least one of a movable member of a steering mechanism and a movable member of a driving mechanism in an automobile. An actuator drives the lock pin. A control unit is connected to the actuator to control the actuator. A power supply line connects the control unit to a power supply. A power supply switch is connected to the power supply line to supply the control unit with power. The power supply switch disconnects the power supply line when the automobile is being driven or when the automobile is allowed to be driven.

Abstract: A warning system for a hood of a vehicle is provided which includes a switch electrically connected to a vehicle ignition, a vehicle starter, warning indicia, and a power source. The warning indicia receives power from the power source and the starter is unconnected to the power when the switch is in an open position. The vehicle ignition and the vehicle starter receives power from the power source when the switch is in a closed position. The switch includes a movable contactor to close the switch when the hood is locked to the vehicle and to open the switch when said hood is not locked to the vehicle.

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: 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: A control circuit between a control port of a microprocessor and an actuator has a control stage whose terminal connection is connected to an actuator terminal and whose control connection is connected to the control port of the microprocessor. In normal operation, the control port is switched as an input and, depending on the terminal voltage, the control stage outputs a control signal which is amplified in a driver stage. By switching the control port as an output and applying a low level to the control connection, the control stage can be inhibited in special cases, such as when the supply voltage dips below a given threshold.

Abstract: The occurrence of vehicle theft is more positively prevented when a door and running system of a vehicle are unlocked, by a remote controller, with different identification codes. The door of a vehicle is locked when an identification code is inputted from the remote controller, and the door cannot be unlocked as long as the same identification code is not inputted from the remote controller. The running system of the vehicle is locked when the driver of the vehicle pushes the switch of an interior device in driver-selected order. As long as the switch of the interior device is pushed in the same order, the running system can be unlocked. As a result, theft of the vehicle can be more positively prevented.

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: Disclosed are methods and systems for an automated car sharing system. An authorized user makes a reservation to use a vehicle at a certain location, specifying the date and time for the pick-up and drop-off. At the appointed time, the user accesses the vehicle and presents identification to automatically gain access to the car. The system maintains all necessary information such as mileage, length of use, distance, and other such information, and when the user returns the car, automatically generates a bill.

Abstract: The disclosure relates to an authentication device for automobile vehicles that controls door locking and/or engine starting and is able to interchange data over a certain distance with an identifier, intended to be carried by a user, when said identifier lies within the emission/reception coverage zone of said authentication device, to enable “hands-free” vehicle access and/or engine starting when said identifier has been authenticated by said authentication device, wherein said authentication device is connected to a single antenna inside the vehicle passenger compartment and is able to emit via said antenna at least two distinct emission powers, a first emission power enabling said antenna to cover a first zone including at least part of said passenger compartment, and a second emission power greater than said first emission power enabling said antenna to cover a second zone including at least the whole of said passenger compartment and possibly a coverage zone outside said vehicle.

Abstract: An improved antitheft system for a vehicle wherein the antitheft control unit and the ignition control unit share a common CPU as one method of avoiding external connections that could be jumped by an unauthorized user.

Abstract: The invention relates to a mechanism for electronically disabling a motor vehicle. More specifically, the invention relates to a transmitter that is aimed by law enforcement personnel at a receiver attached to a motor vehicle driven by a suspect. The transmitter emits signals that cause the receiver to trigger a relay to open thereby terminating the power to the ignition coil (or to a microprocessor) and shutting off the engine of the suspect's motor vehicle.

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: A system for preventing inadvertent operation of remote keyless entry commands for a vehicle remote keyless entry system having a user interface located on the head of the vehicle ignition key. Whenever the ignition key is about to or has been inserted into the vehicle ignition, the user may inadvertently depress one or more of the command buttons of the keyhead. This accidental depression may occur before or during inserting the key, or after the key has been inserted and the key is being turned to activate the ignition. The system of the present invention selectively inhibits the vehicle from acting upon the commands when it is believed any of these situations may be occurring.

Abstract: A method for starting a motor vehicle having an internal combustion engine, an operator actuatable switch, an electric starter and a corresponding starter relay includes coupling a first control circuit to the starter relay during one or more crank operations, and coupling a second control circuit to the starter relay during the one or more crank operations, the coupling steps resulting in a minimal delay time associated with the starting of the motor vehicle.

Abstract: An ignition system that includes an ignition switch assembly for preventing the short-circuiting of the ignition system is provided. The ignition switch assembly includes a contact carrier assembly that is in electrical switching contact with an electrical component, such as a printed circuit board, of the ignition system. The printed circuit board contains substantially all electronics of the ignition system separate and apart from the ignition switch assembly. Upon removing the ignition switch assembly from the ignition switch system, a switching contact member of the printed circuit board is destroyed thereby effectively preventing the ignition system from being short-circuited or “hot wired.

Abstract: A method for starting a motor vehicle having an internal combustion engine, an operator actuatable switch, an electric starter and a corresponding starter relay includes coupling a first control circuit to the starter relay during one or more crank operations, and coupling a second control circuit to the starter relay during the one or more crank operations, the coupling steps resulting in a minimal delay time associated with the starting of the motor vehicle.

Abstract: An ignition switch sensor having a plurality of contacts arranged on a sensor to make intermittent contact with a movable contact and generate a first plurality of outputs corresponding to the position of the movable contact relative to the plurality of contacts. A power mode module receives the first plurality of outputs and compares the outputs to data stored within the memory of the module and provides a second plurality outputs according to the value of the first plurality of outputs. A theft resistor may be integrated into the ignition switch sensor circuitry to facilitate protection from tampering and unauthorized starting of the vehicle's engine.

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: A vehicle security system includes a vehicle anti-theft controller in communication with an identification system and a power distribution system. The power distributing system limits power to the ignition system starter motor. The power distribution system supplies power at various levels in response to commands by the vehicle anti-theft controller. In an unarmed state, the starter motor is operable when the power distribution system provides a first power level thereto. In an armed state, a second power level, which is typically much lower than the first, is adequate to operate the identification system and vehicle accessory systems but not the starter motor.

Abstract: An electrical/electronic system architecture for a vehicle includes a plurality of regions partitioning the vehicle, with each region having a regional electrical/electronic controller (REEC) and at least one local network partitioning each region, with each local network having an electrical/electronic device. The electrical/electronic system architecture includes a global power distribution network that distributes power from a power source to the REEC within each region and a regional power distribution system that distributes the power from the REEC to the local network. The electrical/electronic system architecture also includes a global communication network that provides serial data communication between the REECs in the regions and a regional communication network communicating with the global communication network, such that the regional communication network provides data communication between the REEC and the local network within the region.

Abstract: A vehicle lock apparatus in which a wireless door lock function and an immobilizing function are established is provided. A key (26) is provided with a battery (30), a switch (32) and a control IC (28). An antenna-coil 12 is mounted at an end portion of a key cylinder (10). A wireless antenna (20) is mounted at a predetermined position in a vehicle. When the switch (32) is turned on, a wireless signal is transmitted by the control IC (28) so that the wireless door lock function is established.

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 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: A keyhole is formed on an operating knob installed on the front surface of a rotary switch. The rotary switch can therefore be operated by inserting into the keyhole an electronic key having a long and narrow shape and then turning the operating knob. As a result, operations for an engine start using the electronic key are the same as those using a conventional key.