Residual Or Remanent Magnetism Control Patents (Class 307/101)
  • Patent number: 5965950
    Abstract: A washer solution hose controlling device includes a car speed sensor and an electronic control device outputting a control signal in proportion to the car speed detected from the car speed sensor. The washer solution hose controlling device further employs a solenoid where the voltage supplied from the battery, depending upon the control signal output of the electronic control device which is in proportion to the car speed, is varied. Both sides of a feed hose are pushed by the solenoid to increase the injection pressure of washer solution proportionate to the detected car speed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: In Heum Park
  • Patent number: 5961144
    Abstract: An apparatus (12) is a combination horn pad and driver position sensor. The apparatus (12), in its function as a horn pad, provides a signal to a horn activator circuit (30) when a deforming pressure is applied to the apparatus. The horn activator circuit (30) causes an audible horn (28) to sound. The apparatus (12), in its function as a driver position sensor, senses a distance between a vehicle driver (22) and the apparatus. A driver/monitor circuit (60) is operatively connected to the apparatus (12) to operate the apparatus in its sensor function, and to provide a signal (58) regarding the sensed distance to a controller (50) of an inflatable restraint system (20). The apparatus (12) has a field-effect circuit (e.g., 74) and a ground plate circuit (e.g., 76), for providing the sensor function, and a horn pad circuit (e.g., 78). The apparatus (12) also has a sheet of substrate material, which is folded to define a plurality of planar portions (e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: TRW Inc.
    Inventor: Mark R. Desmarais
  • Patent number: 5961562
    Abstract: A CPU 30 first receives data of accelerations Gx and Gy applied respectively along a longitudinal axis and a lateral axis of a vehicle (S20). The CPU 30 then calculates an arithmetic value fx from the acceleration Gx in the longitudinal direction according to specified arithmetic operations, and calculates an arithmetic value fy from the acceleration Gy in the lateral direction according to specified arithmetic operations (S22). The CPU 30 subsequently projects vectors based on the arithmetic values fx and fy in a preset direction a to yield projective components of the vectors, and determines a sum fa of the projective components (S24). The CPU 30 compares the projective component fa with a threshold value fth(a) previously set for the direction a, and determines whether or not the projective component fa is greater than the threshold value fth(a) (S26).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Motomi Iyoda
  • Patent number: 5963013
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for charging a battery in a transported apparatus from the electrical system of a transporting vehicle. In one aspect of the invention there is provided circuit means for determining when a battery has been sufficiently recharged, adapted to be respectively coupled to both the battery of the transported apparatus and the electrical system of the transporting vehicle. The circuit means may include means for determining the status of the battery being charged such as a meter, an array of lights, or an array of light emitting diodes, the number and sequence of illumination being indicative of the extent to which the battery has been recharged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Inventors: James L. Watson, Janet C. Watson
  • Patent number: 5962978
    Abstract: An automatic degaussing circuit for a color picture tube (CPT) capable of automatically degaussing the CPT when a power conservation mode is released in a monitor having a power conservation function. The degaussing circuit includes a degaussing coil for eliminating electromagnetic waves produced from the CPT, a power conservation mode detecting section for detecting the release of the power conservation mode in accordance with a power conservation mode signal of the CPT inputted thereto and providing a degaussing control signal for controlling the operation of the degaussing coil if the release of the power conservation mode is detected, and a degaussing coil driving section for driving the degaussing coil for a predetermined time in accordance with the degaussing control signal when the power conservation mode is released.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 5, 1999
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Kwang Ho Lee
  • Patent number: 5959366
    Abstract: An electrical connection system for interconnecting an electrical element of a mount with an electrical element of a subassembly has a foil secured to a face of the mount and provided with a plurality of conductive strips connected to the respective electrical element and a plurality of contacts fixed on a face of the subassembly and engageable with the strips of the foil. The two faces are pressed together as the subassembly is secured to the mount to press the two faces together and thereby engage the contacts against the strips. The contacts project from the face of the subassembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Assignee: Kiekert AG
    Inventor: Johannes-Theodor Menke
  • Patent number: 5959365
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an apparatus to provide a monitoring device for detecting problems associated with the wheels of trucks and trailers. The apparatus comprises one or more individual axle spindle sensors, a programmable micro processor for receiving and processing the sensor signals to detect an alarm condition and alarm means to alert the driver of a problem with one or more of the wheels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventors: John Mantini, Ken Adams, Sam Chia
  • Patent number: 5959364
    Abstract: The invention relates to a display arrangement for distance-transmitting device mounted on an instrument panel of a vehicle. The device has at least one display unit on the instrument panel within the field of vision of the driver. The display unit is advantageously inserted into an opening, in particular into a slit-like duct provided or into an extension thereof, in the instrument panel in approximately the vertical direction and to such an extent that a top part of the display unit which contains the display area, projects upwards beyond the instrument panel. The instrument panel has at least one air-outlet slit which extends along the vehicle's windshield, approximately parallel to it and is intended for ventilating the windshield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventors: Hans-Dieter Futschik, Norbert Weber
  • Patent number: 5959367
    Abstract: A vehicle rear vision system includes at lest two rearview assemblies each having an image transfer device for transferring images rearwardly of the vehicle in order to be observable by a driver. A rear vision communication system is provided to effect communication between the rearview assemblies. The rear vision communication system also includes a communication link with the vehicle multiplex communication network. The vehicle rear vision system may include an interactive dynamic position control, which repositions each mirror in the system in response to a change in the position of one mirror in a manner which allows the mirror aim to track a driver's eye position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Desmond J. O'Farrell, Roger L. Veldman, Kenneth Schofield
  • Patent number: 5956247
    Abstract: A plurality of switches are connected to a lesser plurality of shift registers which are controlled by the microcontroller to provide serial binary signals over a single data line with a voltage level clamp by a zener diode in response to clock pulses. A second plurality of switches and rheostats are supplied to a lessor plurality of multiplexers. One of the input channels to each of the multiplexers is selected in response to a channel select signal provided by the microcontroller. The registers and multiplexers produce output signals that are clamped to a lower microcontroller operating level. Signals from the microcontroller are skipped as to control the registers and multiplexers. The operation of the switches and rheostats is used by the microcontroller to control the power devices such as lights, windows, turn signals and air conditioning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: Lear Automotive Dearborn, Inc.
    Inventors: Steven R. Settles, Darrell J. Kolomyski
  • Patent number: 5953196
    Abstract: The locking force of an electromagnetic joystick lock with flux having a flux canceling driver circuit is controlled in order to maintain the control lever of a joystick in a desired position. In one embodiment, the locking force may be in either an activated or deactivated state, and one of a forward or reverse current is applied to the coils of the lock in response to the state, in order to eliminate the residual magnetism when the locking force is deactivated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.
    Inventor: Daniel E. Zimmermann
  • Patent number: 5952730
    Abstract: A method selects one of several equivalent operating elements for controlling the lengthwise and/or transverse dynamics of a motor vehicle. Inadvertent control of the lengthwise and/or transverse dynamics of the motor vehicle is prevented and manual switching between various operating elements is allowed without a transition to be safely feasible for the participants even while driving. The selected operating element is activated simultaneously when the previous operating element is deactivated, after activation of the selected operating element has been made possible by a selector switch. The method therefore takes place in two steps, with activation of an operating element first being made possible by activating a selector switch. The actual activation takes place at a later point in time, namely when the operating element to be activated is in fact actuated to control the lengthwise and/or transverse movement of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Daimler-Benz AG
    Inventors: Uwe Haller, Harald Leschke
  • Patent number: 5952630
    Abstract: A vehicle interior trim panel electrical switch assembly (10) includes a switch panel portion (16) with a continuous outer surface (18). Force sensitive resistor switches (20a-20g) are supported on the switch panel portion (16) and are secured to the inner surface of a skin cover having a continuous outer surface (18) and forming the outer layer of a soft feel composite. The force sensitive resistor switches are embedded in the soft feel composite either as being cast in a layer of flexible foam or being applied within preformed openings in a layer of flexible foam in certain embodiments in which case they are associated with a circuit module (34) that negates preloading effects due to thermal expansion caused by changes in ambient conditions. In a preferred embodiment the correction occurs due to a circuit configuration that corrects for such preloading effects on a deflection rate basis. The circuit module (34) for each switch (20a-20g) may also include a relay in high power applications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 14, 1999
    Assignee: Textron Automotive Company Inc.
    Inventors: Scott M. Filion, Bruce A. Batchelder
  • Patent number: 5949148
    Abstract: A D.C. power distribution and fuse panel unit facilitates installation and trouble shooting of vehicle auxiliary electrical equipment such as two-way radios, sirens, computer mobile data terminals, and mobile phones in police and other emergency vehicles. The unit is installed beneath the dash of a vehicle or other location inside the vehicle and is connected to the battery by a single wire which passes through the firewall, and is joined to the ignition circuit by a second wire connected to a suitable point such as the existing vehicle fuse block. The unit is supplied with a constant source of positive D.C. voltage, and also with ignition voltage when the vehicle ignition switch is turned on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventor: William F. Wagner
  • Patent number: 5949147
    Abstract: An electrical short circuit protection device for an electric trailer brake controller includes a fuse connected between the controller and the trailer brakes and an acoustic piezoelectric transducer connected across the fuse. Upon a short circuit fault developing in the trailer brakes, the fuse opens and the transducer generates an audio warning signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Hayes Lemmerz International, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael C. McGrath, Michael A. Hedding, Charles L. Robertson
  • Patent number: 5949150
    Abstract: An automatic windshield wiper system connected to a source of power and windshield wipers of a vehicle for automatically controlling operation of the windshield wipers based upon an intensity of falling precipitation. The automatic windshield wiper system includes a transducer for sensing precipitation and generating a signal indicative of the sensed precipitation and a comparator connected to receive the control signal. The comparator analyzes the control signal to determine whether precipitation is falling. A relay is connected between the comparator and the windshield wipers. The relay is toggled by the comparator to supply power from the power source to activate the windshield wipers upon a determination by the comparator that the transducer sensed falling precipitation, the transducer continually senses the state of falling precipitation and continually transmits signals to the comparator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Inventor: Claude F MacDonald
  • Patent number: 5949149
    Abstract: A multifunctional switching apparatus, preferably used as a steering switch, comprises a first switching section selecting a specific combination from a plurality of combinations resulting from any possible combination between operating functions of a second switching section and operating functions of a third switching section. The second and third switching sections are operable independent of each other in the specific combination selected by the first switching section. One operating key is provided to control a plurality of switching sections. A display of the operation key is provided to make the judgement of operational function of each switch section easy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 7, 1999
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hitokazu Shitanaka, Ryoichi Taniuchi, Katsuya Saitou
  • Patent number: 5945743
    Abstract: A supervisory circuit for an anti-lock brake system (ABS) unit. The circuit includes an independent internal voltage reference source that provides power to the circuit components. The circuit also includes an external power source monitor powered by the internal voltage reference source which inhibits the ABS unit when an external power source voltage exceeds a predetermined level. The circuit also includes a system voltage monitor powered by the internal voltage reference source that inhibits the ABS unit when a system voltage deviates from predetermined system voltage parameters. The circuit also includes an electronic control unit (ECU) monitor powered by the internal voltage reference source that monitors a periodic signal generated by an ECU and that inhibits the ABS unit if an ECU timing signal deviates from a predetermined threshold level. The supervisory circuit helps to prevent spurious operation of ABS modulators due to race conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignee: AlliedSignal Truck Brake Systems Co.
    Inventors: Tamas I. Pattantyus, Cheryl L. Greenly, Ronald E. Squires
  • Patent number: 5944534
    Abstract: A steering column module electrically connected to the electrical system of a vehicle with the fewest number of connector parts is attached to the outer tube of a steering column of the motor vehicle. The module includes a carrier and functional units attached to the carrier. The carrier is attached to the outer tube of the steering column. Plug-in connector parts are provided on the lower sides of the functional units. A plate-shaped distributing device having upper and lower sides is also included. The distributing device encompasses the steering column and is aligned perpendicular thereto. The distributing device includes mating connector parts on its upper side and a plug-in connector arrangement on its lower side. Each mating connector part is coupled to a respective one of the plug-in connector parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignee: Leopold Kostal GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Ernst Wilhelm Hoffmann, Rudiger Menz, Jorg Welschholz
  • Patent number: 5945745
    Abstract: A detector and battery switch control energy flow from a battery in a vehicle to an electronic module. The vehicle ignition switch controls battery energy flow when the ignition switch is on and the detector and battery switch control battery energy flow when the ignition switch is off. A dimming circuit provides a dimming signal when a demand for energy is made, such as when the headlights are turned on with the ignition switch turned off. The detector senses the dimming signal and operates a battery switch to power up a microprocessor controller from an unpowered state to control operation of the module when the demand for energy is made. There is no sleep mode. A response is made directly to the demand for energy and there is no battery power used until a demand is made for battery energy.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventor: Harold Ryan Macks
  • Patent number: 5945744
    Abstract: In order that a signal can be transmitted without contact from a stationary vehicle part to a rotationally mounted vehicle part, in the case of axial displacement between the parts, provision is made for a rotary transformer having pot-type cores for primary and secondary windings which have L-shaped profiles. These pot-type cores are mounted coaxially inside each other such that one or a plurality of air gaps existing between them run parallel to the rotational axis and are intersected by the magnetic flux radially with respect to the rotational axis. One of the surfaces of the two pot-type cores bordering on the air gaps is provided with a bevel, which tends to decrease the width of the air gap when an axial displacement lengthens the path of the magnetic flux. One of the pot-type cores may include a plurality of ring segments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 31, 1999
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Klaus Dobler, Erich Zabler, Anton Dukart
  • Patent number: 5942988
    Abstract: The remote starter includes a receiver for receiving wireless signals and a controller coupled to the receiver and the engine ignition. The controller activates the ignition in response to receipt of an engine start signal by the receiver and terminates the operation of the engine upon detection of a predetermined condition. The remote engine starter of the present invention may be used to start a vehicle engine and environmentally condition the vehicle interior without indefinitely operating the vehicle. Preferably, the controller terminates engine operation after a predetermined time. The predetermined time period is preferably selected by a user through a remote transmitter. In response to the time period selection, the controller generates a confirmation signal which indicates the selected time period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1995
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignee: Bulldog Security Alarm Systems
    Inventors: Douglas D. Snyder, James J. Sawinski
  • Patent number: 5942815
    Abstract: A flexible capacitor is used in a switch circuit arrangement for activating a vehicle horn. The switch circuit arrangement includes an astable circuit having a flexible capacitor. The astable circuit generates a signal having a frequency that varies in response to force applied to the capacitor. A programmed frequency sensor activates a horn activation signal if the frequency of the signal falls below a programmed threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 24, 1999
    Assignee: Sheldahl, Inc.
    Inventors: David Raymond Neuman, Roy A. Maynard, Gary W. Schult
  • Patent number: 5939796
    Abstract: An electrical switching unit includes a first switch for positioning a vehicle component or activating a memory function. A second switch controls the first switch to select between positioning the component or activating the memory function. Preferably, the switching unit controls the positioning of the right and left side mirrors and activation of a memory function. In one embodiment, the second switch has three positions to select right side mirror positioning, left side mirror positioning, or memory function. The first switch includes four sub-switches to control the upward, downward, inward, and outward adjustment of the right and left side mirror and activation of the set and recall modes of the memory function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: UT Automotive Dearborn, Inc.
    Inventors: Roberto Tomassi, Mark Feldman, John Cranick, Gennaro Fedele
  • Patent number: 5939835
    Abstract: A discharge lamp lighting device for turning on a discharge lamp, including: a power system which generates a high voltage, the power system having a grounding line; a control system having an analog circuit which has a grounding line, and a digital circuit which has a ground wire, the control system for controlling the power system; and a power source system for generating voltages to drive the power system and the control system, wherein the grounding line of the power system, the grounding line of the analog circuit in the control system and the grounding line of the digital circuit in the control system are provided independently of each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hitoshi Takeda, Toru Nakayama, Goichi Oda, Masayasu Yamashita
  • Patent number: 5939795
    Abstract: Seat sensor switches connected to the drivers seat and passenger's seat of a motor vehicle generate signals indicating when the seats are occupied. The passenger sensor switch generates an adult present signal, a child or small adult signal, or an infant/small child present signal depending on the size of the occupant. In response to a signal indicating that all the seats are unoccupied, the parking brake is set, a windshield curtain and a side window sunshade panel are deployed, and the headlamps and ceiling light are deactivated. In response to an adult present signal from the passenger sensor switch, a first quantity of air bag propellant is electrified, the air bag is aimed at an upper location, and the shoulder belt anchor is moved to an upper position. In response to a child or small adult present signal from the passenger sensor switch, a second, smaller quantity of air bag propellant is electrified, the air bag is aimed at a lower location, and the shoulder belt anchor is moved to a lower position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Inventor: Wei Kong Yu
  • Patent number: 5938234
    Abstract: An airbag deactivation system for the airbags mounted in a motor vehicle. The system provides a switch and circuitry to allow for selective deactivation of driver and/or passenger airbags in a motor vehicle via a conventional ignition key inserted into a key cylinder. The switch includes interchangeable key cylinders to allow for limited selective deactivation and a key stop to limit the amount of insertion of the ignition key into the key cylinder. LED's emit light from the deactivation module when indicating a deactivation condition, which is viewable by both a driver and a front seat passenger. Alternatively, LED's are mounted in a remote indicator assembly, separate from the deactivation module, to provide improved visual indication to the driver and front seat passenger of the state of airbag deactivation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 17, 1999
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Anthony Cuddihy, Thomas F. Hrynik, Matt Alan Niesluchowski, Richard Michael Ross, Paul Simmons, J B Drummond
  • Patent number: 5936313
    Abstract: A switched capacitor circuit for delivering electrical triggering energy to an airbag squib of a supplemental restraint system for a vehicle, or a plurality of such airbag squibs, employs a switching arrangement on both sides of the airbag squib. An energy storage element, which may be a capacitor having stored therein a quantum of energy sufficient to fire the airbag squibs is coupled thereto by a substantially series pair of electronic switches connecting each terminal of the storage capacitor to each terminal of the airbag squib arrangement. A further capacitor is coupled across the airbag squib arrangement, electrically intermediate of the substantially series pairs of electronic switches. A still further capacitor is coupled across the airbag squib arrangement itself. This arrangement can withstand plural short-circuit false conditions, including short-circuits to ground or to supply potential at the terminals of the airbag squib arrangement itself.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: Siemens Automotive Corp.
    Inventors: Charles R. Cook, Jr., Horst Belau
  • Patent number: 5934403
    Abstract: A work vehicle having an improved transmission control circuit, that is responsive to a shuttle shift lever and associated switch that generates a forward signal, a reverse signal and a neutral signal, whereby the transmission control circuit engages the transmission in a forward gear ratio on receipt of the forward signal, a reverse gear ratio on receipt of the reverse signal and places the transmission in neutral on receipt of the neutral signal, and further wherein the transmission control circuit further places the transmission in neutral whenever it receives both a forward and neutral signal, or both a reverse and neutral signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: Case Corporation
    Inventors: Byron R. Moore, Chad E. Bement, Michael G. Nahorny
  • Patent number: 5936317
    Abstract: A power supply unit is provided between a car-carried battery and load units, such as a light control unit. The power supply unit is connected to the load units through a multi-signal line. The power supply unit calculates a consumption current consumed by the load unit using an operating state of the load unit which is received through the multi-signal line from the load control unit associated with the load unit. The power supply unit compares the calculated consumption current with a supplying current supplied form the battery. If the supplying current is excessively large, the power supply unit interrupts the supply of current from the battery to the load unit. Therefore, the power supply device can detect a phenomenon, for example, a rare short of an extremely short shorting time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignees: Harness System Technologies Research, Ltd., Sumitomo Wiring System, Ltd., Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Nobuyuki Sasanouchi, Masahiro Tokunaga, Motonori Kido, Hideaki Toyama, Akio Matsumaru, Hiroshi Yamagishi
  • Patent number: 5936314
    Abstract: A battery and an electrically heated catalytic converter (EHC) are connected to an alternator in a parallel arrangement via a changeover switch. The changeover switch operates between a first position where it connects the battery to the alternator and a second position where it connects the EHC to the alternator. An electronic control unit (ECU) is provided for controlling the changeover switch and the alternator. When the changeover switch is to be switched between the first and the second position, the ECU first terminates the power generation of the alternator before it actually switches the changeover switch in order to reduce the electric current flowing through the switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Hideaki Suganuma, Masahiko Hibino, Shinji Ikeda
  • Patent number: 5936315
    Abstract: A driving data recording device for a motor vehicle for collecting at least one of time- and speed-dependent data and including, housing having an element for securing the housing to a housing shell of a motor vehicle drive gear, a control module for processing collected data and located in the housing, and a memory located in the housing and cooperating with the control module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 10, 1999
    Assignee: VDO Adolf Schindling AG
    Inventor: Norbert Lais
  • Patent number: 5932931
    Abstract: When a closing end of a vehicle windowpane is located at the upper side of a preset point P1 while the windowpane is closing, an obstacle pinched between a window frame and the windowpane is detected by a window frame sensor. When the closing end of the vehicle window is located at the lower side of a preset point P2, the pinched obstacle is detected by the window frame sensor and a motor rotation speed sensor, which indicates changes in motor driving load. This prevents a vehicle window control system from operating erroneously when an obstacle is pinched at a slope portion of the window frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Assignee: Asmo Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takeshi Tanaka, Noboru Tsuge, Hidenori Ishihara, Tsutomu Saito
  • Patent number: 5929535
    Abstract: An ignition circuit output stage which is driven by one or several microprocessors. Up to now different modes of operation each required their own different ignition circuit output stage. The ignition circuit output stage according to the invention is programmable - that is, using one and the same output stage, different modes of operation can be selected such as, for example, the unregulated or output stage mode as well as the regulated and limited output current mode. The circuit essentially consists of a down converter which, when activated, will regulate and limit the discharge current. The down converter can be activated and deactivated by means of an appropriate signal. When the down converter is in its deactivated state, an unregulated discharge takes place; this is the output stage mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: TEMIC TELEFUNKEN microelectronic GmbH
    Inventors: Gunter Fendt, Peter Hora, Norbert Muller
  • Patent number: 5929534
    Abstract: A device for improving the performance of a vehicle having a driving unit, a plurality of wheels and wheel brakes is furnished with a moisture sensor indicating the environmental humidity. The moisture sensor provides its information to an electronic controller of a brake system and optionally another automatic device, such as a ventilation system, window control or sunroof control. The knowledge about the humidity is useful to determine the friction coefficient of the road surface. It is advantageous to measure also the environmental temperature to recognize at least temperatures below the freezing point. If the friction coefficient is known, an electronic control unit can estimate the maximum transferable wheel forces or the maximum achievable vehicle acceleration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: ITT Manufacturing Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen J. Pickett
  • Patent number: 5929533
    Abstract: The invention is directed to a method and an arrangement for controlling the idle of a drive unit. In this method, the influence of the control on the drive power of the drive unit is limited when the vehicle is parked or when it begins to roll away. The limiting is carried out at least in the sense of reducing an increase in power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Martin Streib
  • Patent number: 5926107
    Abstract: In a method for operating an anti-theft system and an anti-theft system operating according to the method, a stationary transceiver sends a question code signal to a portable transponder, which in turn responds with an answer code signal. The answer code signal is scanned at predetermined scanning times and a piece of code information is demodulated therefrom. If the first bits of the answer code signal are already unreadable, then the scanning time is displaced by a phase angle, and the remainder of the answer code signal is read.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Manfred Glehr
  • Patent number: 5925939
    Abstract: The startability of an internal combustion engine at low temperatures is improved and the revolution stability of the internal combustion engine right after start-up is increased by setting the predetermined maximum value of field current to a low level at low temperatures and to a high level at high temperatures by field current limit setting means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shiro Iwatani, Tsunezi Gouda
  • Patent number: 5926088
    Abstract: A put-in-park alarm which is energized whenever an automatic shift vehicle is stopped but the shift lever is not in park. The put-in-park alarm is energized when the driver moves his door handle in a door opening direction. Not only is the alarm energized but the door cannot be opened until the shift lever is moved to park whereupon the signal is deenergized, but the door is unlocked upon a second movement of the handle in a door opening direction. The invention includes a broken/maladjusted alarm which is different from the put-in-park alarm but produces substantially similar results.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Inventor: William A. Barr
  • Patent number: 5924505
    Abstract: The invention concerns a driving system for a hybrid-powered motor vehicle. It includes a generator set producing a direct current used by a driving set with an electric motor for driving at least one driving wheel of the vehicle. Using an accelerator, the driver gives a power set-point signal that is used by a first adjusting device which acts on the thermal engine, the generator, and the AC/DC converter of the generator set. A second adjusting device adjusts the power of the driving set as a slave of the generator set, according to the variations in the voltage of the supply circuit with respect to a desired voltage, without considering the signal from the accelerator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Assignee: SMH Management Services AG
    Inventors: Patrick Theurillat, Gianni Francescutto, Robert Apter, Rene Jeanneret, Antoine Toth
  • Patent number: 5923095
    Abstract: A control apparatus for an onboard AC generator for a motor vehicle is capable of suppressing erroneous operation of the switching circuit due to a leakage current to thereby prevent the output voltage of the AC generator from abnormal rising. The control apparatus includes an AC generator (1) including a field winding (102), a rectifier circuit (2) for converting an output voltage of the AC generator (1) into a DC voltage, a battery (5) charged with the DC voltage, a switching circuit (3) constituted by a low-side switch for turning on/off a current flow loop extending through the field winding (102), a control unit (4) for controlling on/off-operation of the switching circuit (3) so that a voltage (VB) appearing at a charging terminal of the battery (5) matches with a predetermined voltage level, and a resistor (303) inserted between a control input terminal of the switching circuit (3) and the ground potential.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shiro Iwatani, Tatsuki Kouwa
  • Patent number: 5923096
    Abstract: An all-electric vehicle control system arranges operator interface controls at a console between a pair of seats, either of which can be used by an operator. The console controls include a joystick arranged in communication with an electronic motor control system for driving and regeneratively braking the vehicle wheels. The joystick is also in communication with an electronic servo amplifier and an electric servo actuator that steers the vehicle electromechanically and provides a closed loop feedback circuit for steering control. Electromagnetically actuated brakes are interposed between drive wheels and electric drive motors and are energized automatically whenever the vehicle rolls to a stop, thereby holding the vehicle still. The console also includes a dynamic brake switch that can energize the electromagnetic brakes for decelerating the vehicle in conjunction with regenerative braking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Assignee: Manak Dynamics Engineering Corp.
    Inventor: Richard T. Manak
  • Patent number: 5919048
    Abstract: A device for connecting an external electrical power cord to an engine block heater in an automotive vehicle. The device is permanently mounted in the vehicle grille and includes a flanged electrical inlet whose terminals are hard-wired to the heater, and a housing which is pivotable upwardly to allow the female plug of the power cord to be connected to the inlet prongs. The original grille escutcheon is attached to the pivotable housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 17, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Inventor: Billy B. Slattery
  • Patent number: 5920128
    Abstract: A communication link between a tractor and trailer is established utilizing existing by dormant tractor and trailer circuitry. In one embodiment of the invention, a tractor communications device has a communications port connected to a turn signal circuit and a trailer communications device has a communications port connected to the same turn signal circuit. The two communications devices permit communications therebetween over the turn signal circuit as long as the turn signal circuit is inactive, and otherwise inhibits such communications. In another embodiment of the invention, such a communications link is used to transmit a fault signal, relating to an abnormally operating trailer anti-lock brake system (ABS), to the tractor for activation of an in-cab ABS warning device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Assignee: Grote Industries Inc.
    Inventor: Antonio Hines
  • Patent number: 5915725
    Abstract: An airbag deactivation system for the airbags mounted in a motor vehicle. The system provides a switch and circuitry to allow for selective deactivation of driver and/or passenger airbags in a motor vehicle via a conventional ignition key inserted into a key cylinder. The switch includes interchangeable key cylinders to allow for limited selective deactivation and a key stop to limit the amount of insertion of the ignition key into the key cylinder. LED's emit light from the deactivation module when indicating a deactivation condition, which is viewable by both a driver and a front seat passenger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Anthony Cuddihy, J B Drummond, Thomas F. Hrynik, Matt Alan Niesluchowski, Richard Michael Ross, Paul Simmons
  • Patent number: 5917249
    Abstract: An apparatus for driving electrical loads provided at a vehicle by feeding power to the electrical loads, includes a power source for feeding power to a plurality of the electrical loads provided at a vehicle. The plurality of electrical loads are divided into more than one group. Each of the groups is driven by each of a plurality of load drive circuits by feeding power to each of the load drive circuits from the power source, provided at the vicinity of each of set places in the vehicle at which a group of the electrical loads are concentratedly arranged. A power line is connected to the battery, wherein each of the load drive circuits has a pair of power input terminals, and the power line connected to the battery is branched into two branch power wires. Each of the branch power wires is connected to a power input terminal of each of a first two load drive circuits of the load drive circuits.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 29, 1999
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Mitsuru Kon'i, Hiroyuki Saito
  • Patent number: 5914539
    Abstract: A motor vehicle electrical control circuit for controlling energy consumption units includes a microcomputer, semiconductor output amplifiers, and control circuits. Each of the output amplifiers is connected to a respective one of the consumption units for providing electrical energy to the units. The control circuits are connected to the microcomputer and to a respective one of the output amplifiers for controlling the electrical energy provided to the consumption units. The control circuits generate a measurement signal indicative of a variable of the respective one of the output amplifiers. The computer systems process the measurement signals to determine if either a critical change or a sub-critical change of the variable has occurred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 22, 1999
    Assignee: Leopold Kostal GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Uwe Borgmann, Reiner Janca
  • Patent number: 5912511
    Abstract: The harness system adapts to a first type of vehicle having a tail ledge with right- or left-had drive and a second type of vehicle having no tail ledge with right- or left-hand drive. The harness wiring is so arranged that a front harness and a combined harness integrating floor harness and rear harness can be commonly used for these four types of vehicles. Only a combined harness integrating cowl harness and instrument harness is differently wired for the right- or left-hand drive vehicle. The front harness and the two sets of combined harnesses are connected to one another through a connecting means located on the same side, either on the right or left side of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 15, 1999
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventor: Mitsuru Hidaka
  • Patent number: 5907194
    Abstract: A device for supplying voltage in a motor vehicle is described in which there is at least one generator that can furnish an generator-speed-dependent output voltage without voltage regulation. The at least one generator is preferably a three-phase alternator with a plurality of stator windings whose electrical connections are switchable at predetermined generator speeds by a control unit to provide the generator-speed dependent output voltage. In a following power control unit, this generator speed-dependent voltage is rectified by means of at least one controlled rectifier bridge and via assigned voltage converters is converted into a plurality of directly voltages of different magnitude. These direct voltages are supplied to the individual on-board electrical system components via electronic vehicle body power control system units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Joachim Schenk, Dieter Schramm, Richard Schoettle
  • Patent number: 5907287
    Abstract: In a keyless entry control apparatus having a fault diagnosis unit provided separately from a car and a keyless entry C/U, the fault diagnosis unit transmits a signal to each control unit connected to a communication line, and when receiving a communication enabling signal transmitted from the keyless entry C/U, the fault diagnosis unit can communicate with the keyless entry C/U. In the case where ID codes are entered in the keyless entry C/U, a signal for setting the keyless entry C/U to ID entry mode is transmitted from the fault diagnosis unit to the keyless entry C/U. The keyless entry C/U which received the signal is set to ID entry mode, and transmits entry information of the ID codes entered in an EEPROM to the fault diagnosis unit immediately. The entry information is displayed on a display device of the fault diagnosis unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Atsushi Sakagami, Kenichi Hanada