Stabilized, Anti-hunting Or Antioscillation Systems Patents (Class 307/102)
  • Patent number: 5547039
    Abstract: A front end loader is provided with a seat switch that is closed when an operator sits in a seat and a seat belt switch that is closed when a seat belt is fastened. Closure of the seat switch enables a programmable controller which begins executing a program. The program repetitively checks the status of the seat and seat belt switches and enables the hydraulic controls for the boom and bucket only if (1) the seat belt switch is not closed at the time the operator sits in the seat and (2) subsequent to sitting in the seat the operator fastens the seat belt. The system makes it inconvenient for an operator to defeat the purpose of the seat belt by fastening it and sitting on it since, on each entry into the operator's cab, the operator must unbuckle the seat belt before sitting in the seat in order to enable the boom and bucket controls. To deter theft, the operator may lower the boom and bucket to engage the ground and then enter any two-digit lock code using two manual switches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Assignee: New Holland North America, Inc.
    Inventors: John G. Berger, Robert E. Long, Darryl T. Leeds
  • Patent number: 5548163
    Abstract: A security device for use with audio and video equipment installed in an automobile or other type of vehicle, such as a van or boat. The security device includes a module which is coupled to the equipment to be protected. The security device comprises an encoded security key which is plugged into a key receptacle to disarm and arm the module. The key includes logic for producing an encoded disarming signal and is of a size which can be easily carried on the person of the user. The module can be located at a space in the vehicle which is remote to the key receptacle thereby allowing otherwise inaccessible equipment to be conveniently secured from the passenger compartment of the vehicle for example. Without a proper encoded key, the equipment cannot be operated and is virtually useless if removed from the vehicle. To provide a further deterrent to theft, the module and/or equipment include a warning notice signifying the inoperative nature of the equipment without the key.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 20, 1996
    Assignee: Blade Technologies Inc.
    Inventor: John B. French
  • Patent number: 5543776
    Abstract: A vehicle security system including a remote control communicating with the system via an RF link for remotely arming and/or disarming the system. Modes of system operation include an armed mode in which sensor outputs are monitored for intrusion indicating conditions and an RF receiver is monitored for remote commands, an alarm mode in which a siren is sounded in response to a detection of an intrusion indicating condition during the armed mode, a disarmed mode in which sensor monitoring for intrusion conditions is disabled, a programming mode in which features of the system are programmable, a valet mode in which only selected sensor outputs are monitored, and a pre-arming mode following system disarming and prior to passive arming, in which the door switch is monitored. A display facilitates programming by providing an indication of the present position within the programming sequence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Assignee: Whistler Corporation
    Inventors: Lauren L. L'Esperance, Craig R. Autio, E. Thomas Mariner, Norval D. Stapelfeld
  • Patent number: 5543665
    Abstract: In an electrical switch which includes a key for its operation. The key includes a code which is specific to a specific switch. The switch includes illumination means for illuminating the key carried code, a scanning device for reading the key code, electronic circuits for comparing the key code with the proper key code for that specific lock, and responding to a correct key by allowing the switch to close electrically or to an incorrect key which prevents the switch from closing electrically and can turn on an alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 6, 1996
    Inventor: Vincent Demarco
  • Patent number: 5541571
    Abstract: The invention relates to a hand-held transmitter for the remote control of various vehicle systems with integrated normal key. A housing has electronics and the normal key connected to the said housing, and a sensor system which detects positions or movements of the normal key. Here, a code for the remote-controlled actuation of at least the lock system of the vehicle is emitted as a function of the signals of the sensor system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1996
    Assignee: Mercedes-Benz AG
    Inventors: Siegfried Ochs, Peter Brenner
  • Patent number: 5539377
    Abstract: Vehicle security protection system provides anti-theft security system for the voluntary vehicle vacate situation, regardless of whether the engine is running. When a thief trips the armed system, the engine ignition circuit is instantaneously and continuously broken at the vehicle's engine ignition module. The system is difficult to hot-wire or to reset. An anti-hijack security protection system is also provided which can interface with the anti-theft system. Either system can be "armed" regardless of engine status. However, the user must be in the vehicle before arming the anti-hijack system because the door/courtesy light circuit is used as the trigger circuit for engine kill. A time delay is provided in the anti-hijack mode to cause the thief to commit to public actions and to give the owner time to escape from the hijack scene. In either mode, when the system is tripped, the fuel gauge indicates an empty tank condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 23, 1996
    Inventor: John A. Dillon
  • Patent number: 5535844
    Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft device including a portable transmitter for emitting control signals; a tuned receiver mechanism coupleable to a vehicle for receiving the control signals; a first switch having an engaged orientation for preventing a hood of a vehicle from being opened; a second switch having an engaged orientation for preventing flow of fuel from a gas tank to an engine of a vehicle; and a console mechanism coupled to the receiver mechanism and responsive to the received control signals for placing the first and second switches in their engaged orientations upon receipt of control signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 16, 1996
    Inventor: Ricky L. Samford
  • Patent number: 5534846
    Abstract: A lock device has a lock lever changing from its locked position to its unlocked position by a normal-lock-motor, and a super lock member displaced between its super locked position preventing the lock lever from changing and a releasing position enabling the change. The lock device has a switch adapted to turn on when a key is inserted into the ignition key cylinder at the driver's seat, another switch adapted to turn on when any person is in the interior of a car, still another switch adapted to turn on when any door opens, still another switch adapted to turn on when the trunk opens, and still another switch adapted to turn on when any window opens. When even one of these switches has turned on and the super lock member is changed to its super locked position, an alarm buzzer sounds or the change to the super lock halts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1996
    Assignee: Mitsui Kinzoku Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Katsuya Kuroda
  • Patent number: 5533589
    Abstract: A remote signal responsive vehicle disabling system comprising a receiver, a disabling mechanism with external leads for direct connection to a fuse receptacle of an operative electrical circuit in the vehicle, where the disabling mechanism comprises a destructible component which is destroyed upon activation, thereby interrupting the operative electrical circuit of the vehicle and disabling it.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1996
    Assignees: Rick P. Lucas, Allan D. Terry
    Inventor: W. Larry Critzer
  • Patent number: 5534845
    Abstract: An electrically powered security system for monitoring and controlling access to a protected area and having multiple levels of alert signal commensurate with the level of security threat to the area; a siren for communicating multiple levels of alert signal, both visual and audible, progressively including: a low level, medium level and full level alert consisting of a voice warnaway, a series of audible chirps, or blinking lights; an electrically erasable and programmable read only memory for permanently storing system operational parameters and a controller for using the operational parameters for controlling the operation of security system, the security system including a remote transmitter to remotely test all input sensors and remotely disable specific sensors from operation, thus having control of any combination of variable audio and/or audio-visual alarm response, the security system further including a light control for automatic light engagement and mutual cooperation with windshield wipers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 9, 1996
    Inventors: Darrell E. Issa, Jerry W. Birchfield, Glenn R. Busse, Sidney B. Perdue, Kenneth A. Ward
  • Patent number: 5532521
    Abstract: A keyless system for quickly and conveniently securing the storage area of a delivery type truck against unauthorized entry and theft while the driver is away from the truck making a delivery or pickup. In reaching a delivery point or approaching the truck after a pickup, the driver actuates a portable transmitter to generate a wireless signal which is received and processed by a receiver within the truck and which unlocks and opens the access door to the storage area. Upon exit from the storage area after selecting or depositing a package, the driver simply taps a switch located in the cab of the truck to generate a signal which causes the access door to close and lock automatically. Securement of the rear cargo loading door also is controlled by use of the portable transmitter to generate a further signal for operating the loading door lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1993
    Date of Patent: July 2, 1996
    Inventor: Robert L. Leininger
  • Patent number: 5528216
    Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft system is remotely operable and includes a pump fluidically connecting a reservoir of hydraulic fluid to a hydraulic cylinder of a vehicle braking system. The system further includes a pump control circuit that operates the pump to pump fluid into the braking system hydraulic cylinder to lock the vehicle brakes and to stop the pump as soon as the pressure in the braking system reaches a predetermined value. In one form of the system, operation of a remotely controlled switch deactivates the system and re-orients a valving system so operation of the pump drains the braking system by moving hydraulic fluid from the braking system back into the fluid reservoir. The pump control circuit stops the pump when pressure in the braking system drops to a predetermined level, and can include a timer to automatically stop the pump after a predetermined time of draining operation whereby the drainings does not deprive the braking system of sufficient fluid to operate in a normal manner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 18, 1996
    Inventor: Louis Main
  • Patent number: 5521443
    Abstract: A portable display device is capable of monitoring the residual capacity of a traveling battery from the outside of an electric vehicle, and conducting operations such as locking and unlocking of a door from outside of the vehicle and controlling the operation of the air conditioner through wireless means. This portable display device is inserted into an insertion section provided in an instrument panel of the vehicle for operating the vehicle. If an ID code in the portable display device agrees with an ID code in the vehicle, a traveling switch is unlocked. Then, if the traveling switch is operated, a steering lock device is released and the traveling motor is connected to the traveling battery in a state in which the electric vehicle is operable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 28, 1996
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yoshikazu Imura, Kouichi Suyama, Atsuo Ohno, Yoshikazu Takahira
  • Patent number: 5519376
    Abstract: An antitheft apparatus for an automotive vehicle comprises: a transponder (1) buried in an ignition key to store an ID number thereof; a receive unit (2) to receive the ID number of the ignition key inserted into the ignition key cylinder; an immobilizer unit (3) for outputting an engine start enable signal when the received ID number matches one of the stored ID numbers and not outputting the engine start enable signal when does not match; and an engine control unit (5) for enabling an engine drive in response to the reception of the engine start enable signal but disabling the engine drive in response to no reception of the engine start enable signal. In particular, the engine drive unit (5) keeps the immobilizer unit (3) inoperative for a predetermined time duration when the engine cranking operation is detected and allows the immobilizer unit (3) to be operative after the predetermined time has elapsed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1996
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yohichi Iijima
  • Patent number: 5519255
    Abstract: A "normal mode" allows a hijacker to drive away but disables the vehicle after a short delay. An optional "valet mode" allows others, e.g. parking attendants and mechanics, a limited driving period that when exceeded causes vehicle shut-down that cannot be overcome without actuating a hidden switch. One embodiment has both modes and includes: a switch for arming the system in the normal mode; an element, responsive to a hijacking event, e.g.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1994
    Date of Patent: May 21, 1996
    Inventors: Timothy A. Burtch, David F. Carey, Peter E. Asaro, Wilson S. Fickle
  • Patent number: 5514914
    Abstract: An electronic antitheft device for a motor vehicle provided with conventional functional elements allowing the control of the operation of the vehicle, namely for example an electric battery for the general electric power supply of the vehicle, an electric starter and brakes, has a remote control box for transmitting a digital code carried for example by an infrared beam, the remote control box cooperating with a receptacle disposed in the driving compartment of the vehicle so that the digital code is only transmitted if the remote control box is disposed in the receptacle, and an electronic center having a digital code receiver, and switches connected to one or more of the functional elements so as to control their operation in the case of the reception of said digital code.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 7, 1996
    Inventors: Albert Sellem, Fran.cedilla.ois Iosca
  • Patent number: 5513107
    Abstract: Parameters for operation of a number of vehicle operating subsystems are stored in a vehicle controller and selected to control and configure the operating subsystems. Control and configuration can be based on individual recognized operators of the vehicle or an operating mode can be selected for the vehicle. For example, sport, cruise, luxury, off-road or other performance modes can be set up and selected. If a vehicle is to be operated by an authorized person who is not a recognized operator or is not authorized to select a mode of operation, default operating characteristic parameters are stored and selected. If the authorized person is to be restricted in the possible operation of the vehicle, a further set of limited operating characteristic parameters are stored and selected, preferably by entry of control signals corresponding to a security code. For example, if a valet is parking the vehicle, the limited operating parameters are selected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1992
    Date of Patent: April 30, 1996
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventor: Joseph Gormley
  • Patent number: 5506562
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a device for shutting off an engine remotely and sounding off an alarm locally and which includes an alarm motor, a module for activating the alarm motor, a key switch for turning the module on and off, a siren connected to the alarm motor, and a battery with an alternator terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Inventor: Jerry C. Wiesner
  • Patent number: 5506563
    Abstract: An anti-theft system is described adaptable to any motor vehicle having a removable accessory electronic unit such as a high-fidelity stereo component unit installed within a mounting bracket and slidably detachable therefrom. Upon leaving the car, the vehicle owner takes along the entire accessory unit, or alternatively takes only a detachable front control panel from the unit, for secure safekeeping or to be retained in the personal possession of the owner. At the same time, continuity of the electrical circuit supplying current from the storage battery to the motor vehicle fuel pump (or ignition switch, or other control component of the vehicle) is interrupted, thus preventing normal operation of the vehicle and protecting against unauthorized use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 1994
    Date of Patent: April 9, 1996
    Inventor: Danko Jonic
  • Patent number: 5495224
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for preventing automobile theft which includes structure for rendering the front windshield, or all the windows of the automobile, opaque. The opaqueness may be caused either by mechanical means, or alternatively, by utilizing liquid crystals or similar media, energized by electric fields.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 27, 1996
    Inventor: Uriel Adar
  • Patent number: 5493268
    Abstract: Apparatus for use in thwarting an attempted hijacking of a vehicle utilizes a fluid chemical agent which irritates living human tissue upon contact. The fluid is contained in a reservoir, and is flowed under pressure to spray nozzles via tubes. The nozzles are located relative to the vehicle to spray the agent onto a hijacker so as to produce discomfort and disorientation. An automatic actuation system sprays fluid out of the nozzles when the system is enabled, the vehicle is running, and one of the vehicle's windows has been broken. Agent may also be sprayed by manually actuating an override switch into an energized position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: February 20, 1996
    Inventors: Robert J. Lewis, Sr., Kim L. Burke
  • Patent number: 5486806
    Abstract: An anti-hijacking and theft prevention device for motor vehicles having a fuel restricting solenoid valve assembly including an interchangeable solenoid operated fuel restricting valve and a circuit for operating the system. The solenoid operated fuel restricting valve is installed in the vehicle's fuel line. When the ignition key is inserted into the ignition switch of a vehicle and turned to the "on" position and the engine is started, a timer will start to count down from a predetermined period of time. If the system is not disabled by activating a hidden switch during the count down period, the solenoid operated fuel restricting valve moves from an open position to a closed position. The solenoid valve has a small valve orifice which allows only a small restricted amount of fuel to flow through the valve assembly in the fuel line. While the amount of fuel is sufficient to keep the engine from stalling, the vehicle will be capable of a speed of no more than 5 to 10 miles per hour.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 23, 1996
    Inventors: Harold A. Firari, John A. Werner
  • Patent number: 5481253
    Abstract: An anti-theft system for an automobile includes a microprocessor-based control module that enables operation of solenoids for the power circuits of the car only if a proper identification code is entered by a data entry device and the automobile's ignition switch is sequenced through its positions. The anti-theft device further includes operating a serial switch placed in a critical electrical circuit for the engine, and data communications capability with electronic controls for the engine and other systems on the automobile so as to limit or to disable their function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 1994
    Date of Patent: January 2, 1996
    Inventors: Michael D. Phelan, Keith N. St. John
  • Patent number: 5477206
    Abstract: A new and improved anti-carjacking apparatus for a motor vehicle includes an open door sensor assembly and a first timer assembly actuated by the open door sensor assembly. A first switch actuator assembly is activated by the first timer assembly for a first predetermined period of time. The first timer assembly controls a ready state for the first predetermined period of time. A second timer assembly is actuated by the first timer assembly. The second timer assembly is actuated after actuation of the first timer assembly by a second predetermined period of time which is a delay period. A deactuation switch assembly is capable of being manually actuated by a person and is capable of deactuating the first timer assembly and the second timer assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 19, 1995
    Inventor: Richard Rodriguez, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5475362
    Abstract: A tractor-trailer alarm system having mounted interior and exterior arming switches arranged in parallel either of which is operated by the tractor driver to arm the alarm system. The alarm system comprises a system of relays connected to the tractor batteries through the arming switches and further comprises a plurality of sensing switches, arranged in parallel, which trigger the relay system when actuated, such as by the unauthorized opening of a door. The relay system, in turn, is connected to one or more warning devices, such as a siren, which provides a warning when the relay system is triggered by the actuation of one of the sensing switches. The relay system is further connected to one or more essential components of the tractor engine, such as the fuel pump, which is disabled by the relay system when the relay system is triggered by one of the sensing switches.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 12, 1995
    Assignee: Truckers Alarm System, Inc.
    Inventor: Jimmy L. McRae
  • Patent number: 5473305
    Abstract: A vehicle alarm system with two-stage disarming consists of a remote control unit, a receiver-decoder unit, a Central Processing Unit (CPU). When the alarm system is armed, the CPU continues to monitor the signals transmitted from the receiver-decoder unit. If no attack is made on the vehicle or no triggering signal is detected by the alarm system, pressing the remote control unit one time will disarm the alarm. When a triggering signal is detected, the siren will sound immediately and the signal lights will flash continuously. To turn off the siren and signal lights, the remote control unit can be pressed one time while the alarm system is continuously and fully armed. If the burglar goes on stealing the vehicle, the siren will sound and the parking lights will flash again as well as that the engine start is disabled. Such full protection remains until the car owner comes back to press the remote control unit twice to deactivate, the alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1995
    Inventor: Shih M. Hwang
  • Patent number: 5473200
    Abstract: A theft prevention device that includes a digital control unit and digital receiving units. These digital components form a control system along with existing peripheral components. The control system utilizes a signal network where signals are transmitted and received on the existing wiring or through the air between the digital components. The components of the anti-theft device operate in either an armed or disarmed state, and the system automatically arms whenever the ignition key is turned from on to off. If the system is in a vehicle and the vehicle is started without disarming the system first, each component becomes active after its programmed time delay has elapsed. A unique code, generated by the digital control unit, is passed through alarm system's signal network during the disarmed state such that the digital components in the theft prevention device becomes active and perform their respective functions even if the power supply is cut in the armed state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 1993
    Date of Patent: December 5, 1995
    Assignee: Depromax Limited
    Inventor: Thomas Woo
  • Patent number: 5469135
    Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft device and alarm includes a U-shaped rod for attachment to a vehicle steering wheel in a position overlying the vehicle dash board. An alarm is positioned in said U-shaped rod, whereby said alarm is firmly secured to a vehicle and inaccessible for tampering.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1995
    Assignee: WOLO Manufacturing Corporation
    Inventor: Joseph E. Solow
  • Patent number: 5469151
    Abstract: An easy-to-install automotive security system mounts a siren assembly in the engine compartment and a sensor assembly in the passenger compartment. The assemblies are in wireless, radio frequency communication, thereby eliminating wires extending between the compartments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: November 21, 1995
    Assignee: Audiovox Corporation
    Inventors: Patrick M. Lavelle, John DiCroce, Thomas C. Malone
  • Patent number: 5463371
    Abstract: A portable automobile alarm hung over the top of an automobile side window is secured in place by raising the window into its frame. The portion of the unit positioned on the interior side of the glass contains a sensor, a receiver, and associated electronic circuitry. The exterior unit houses an alarm siren. The unit is powered from an internal battery or from a cigarette lighter. The unit may be armed and disarmed by a remote transmitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 31, 1995
    Assignee: Coyote Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Russell Fuller
  • Patent number: 5459448
    Abstract: An automotive security device of the type consisting of: (a) a portable unit and (b) a central unit. The portable unit consisting of a transmitter circuit and a pulse duration circuit being capable of transmitting specified signal pulses at periodic intervals over a limited distance. The central unit, which is mounted in the vehicle, consisting of a receiver circuit and an interface circuit being capable of receiving these signals and activating the vehicle electrical system upon receiving said signal and deactivating the vehicle electrical system upon the absence of said signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 17, 1995
    Inventors: Christopher J. Dortenzio, Brian H. Twohig
  • Patent number: 5457438
    Abstract: An alarm system is disclosed which includes a triggering device which triggers a warning device in the case of an unauthorized change of the position of the motor vehicle. The device comprises a compass by means of which the actual position value is reported to a control apparatus. As soon as the compass reports a value to the control apparatus which deviates from the stored position value, the warning device is activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 1994
    Date of Patent: October 10, 1995
    Inventor: Martin Ziegler
  • Patent number: 5450920
    Abstract: A method for operating a motor vehicle driven by an internal combustion engine, and having a drive train for receiving mechanical power of the engine and imparting motion to the motor vehicle via at least one set of wheels of the motor vehicle, can include a system for engaging and disengaging at least a part of the drive train. This system for engaging and disengaging can be utilized for preventing the motor vehicle from being driven under its own power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1995
    Assignee: Fichtel & Sachs AG
    Inventors: Karl-Georg Enk, Walter Fichtler, Wolfgang Thieler, Bernd Gaubitz, Hans-Jurgen Schneider
  • Patent number: 5451926
    Abstract: A car-used burglarproof device capable of emitting human voice, including a remote transmitter, a central door lock controller, a wireless SOS system, a remote receiver, a decoder, a latch circuit, a vibration detecting circuit, a counter, a timer, a voice system and a re-triggerable timer, whereby the remote transmitter is operated to transmit signal to the receiver and the receiver responds to the signal by voice or sound. When the burglarproof effect is set up or released, the car doors are simultaneously locked or unlocked. After the burglarproof effect is set up, if the car is touched or shocked, the burglarproof device will emit a voice of "this car is equipped with alarm system, please don't touch". If the car is again touched, the burglarproof device will emit a warning voice of "if you touch the car again, I shall call the police".
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 25, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1995
    Inventor: Kou Lian Li
  • Patent number: 5451925
    Abstract: A vehicle passive electronic security control for instant and automatic anti-theft protection which functions without special keys, switches, operator system awareness and does not require active arming or disarming. This invention is easily installed using common tools for electrical and mechanical connections. It cannot be defeated by hot wiring methods. The original ignition key and normal vehicle operating techniques instantly activate or arm and deactivate or disarm this anti-theft invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: September 19, 1995
    Inventor: Hy D. Le
  • Patent number: 5448218
    Abstract: An anti-theft alarm system designed for use with a motor vehicle such as an automobile which includes a logic control assembly activated by a transmitted, coded signal being sent to a receiver and decoder connected to the logic control system for the activation and operation of a fuel valve control mechanism, an ignition control and associated timer mechanism, and a mobile transmitter structure mounted on and carried with the motor vehicle. Activation of the system may occur by authorized personnel calling into a central telephone switching office by means of a conventional subscriber, touchtone telephone or a cellular telephone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 1993
    Date of Patent: September 5, 1995
    Assignee: Protector 2000, Inc.
    Inventor: Indalecio Espinosa
  • Patent number: 5444430
    Abstract: A motor vehicle having an engine and drive train is protected by a security system including a sensor, a sequencer and an interrupter. The sensor can detect motion of the motor vehicle to provide a motion signal. The sequencer is coupled to the sensor and responds to the motion signal for providing a disable signal after production of the motion signal. The interrupter is coupled to the engine for disabling it in response to the disable signal. Thus the motor vehicle is disabled only after its motion is detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: August 22, 1995
    Inventor: Richard McShane
  • Patent number: 5424627
    Abstract: A modular thyristor controlled series capacitor (TCSC) system, including a method and apparatus, uses phase controlled firing based on monitored capacitor voltage and line current. For vernier operation, the TCSC system predicts an upcoming firing angle for switching a thyristor controlled commutating circuit to bypass line current around a series capacitor. Each bypass current pulse changes the capacitor voltage proportionally to the integrated value of the current pulse. The TCSC system promptly responds to an offset command from a higher-level controller to control bypass thyristor duty to minimize thyristor damage, and to prevent capacitor voltage drift during line current disturbances. In a multi-module TCSC system, the higher level controller accommodates competing objectives of various system demands, including minimizing losses in scheduling control, stabilizing transients, damping subsynchronous resonance (SSR) oscillations, damping direct current (DC) offset, and damping power-swings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 13, 1995
    Assignee: Electric Power Research Institute
    Inventors: Kara Clark, Einar V. Larsen, Carl A. Wegner, Richard J. Piwko
  • Patent number: 5418519
    Abstract: An electronic circuit device having an electric-code locking functions so that when the electronic circuit device is electrically connected to a battery, a control circuit is activated to cause a power supply detecting circuit to detect whether the electronic circuit device has been stolen. When a proper code is input by a control input unit after the completion of its detection, the electronic circuit device can be normally operated. In response to another simple operation signal input from the control input unit, the control circuit controls a radio receiving circuit, a tape circuit and a muting circuit in such a manner that the electronic circuit device is temporarily brought to the normal operation state. That is, the electronic circuit device can be provided with an additional function for temporarily bringing the electronic circuit device to an operation state by inputting an operation signal other than a signal indicative of a mnemonic in order to improve the efficiency of its fabrication.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 23, 1995
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Denki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yuji Hino, Ryou Tomohiro
  • Patent number: 5412378
    Abstract: Method and apparatus for protecting a device at a first location using an operational member, within the device at the first location, that is activated by a control unit at a second location, separated from the first location, including an activation switch that enables the generation of a signal for rendering the device operational at the first location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1992
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Inventor: Jon K. Clemens
  • Patent number: 5412371
    Abstract: An electronic security system for protecting an interior space such as the interior of an automobile includes a settable alarm for producing, when set by an arming signal, an alarm indication in response to a trigger signal, an arming circuit which, when activated, provides a setting signal to the alarm and activating means for activating and deactivating the arming circuit. The system also includes a detector for detecting a presence in the space being protected and providing a trigger signal to the alarm in response thereto and a detector, which may be the same as the detector which triggers the alarm, to inhibit activation of the arming circuit when a presence is detected in the space before the alarm is set. When the system is implemented as a vehicle anti-theft device, it may also include provision for preventing the system from becoming armed when the vehicle's engine is running and for preventing the vehicle's automatic door locks from locking when the vehicle is still occupied.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Inventor: Neil B. Kaplan
  • Patent number: 5412370
    Abstract: A system and method for preventing the unauthorized starting and driving away of a vehicle. The vehicle cannot be started unless a secret starting sequence is initiated, and the vehicle will stall if a flight prevention sequence is initiated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 1993
    Date of Patent: May 2, 1995
    Inventors: Leonard C. Berman, Joseph C. Noe
  • Patent number: 5408211
    Abstract: A vehicle disabling system for connecting to a vehicle ignition system to disable the associated vehicle after a pre-determined length of time following an actuation of the system by a user. The device includes a disabling circuit which may be installed in series with the ignition system of the vehicle. The circuit includes a panic switch operable to actuate a timer and, after a pre-determined length of time has elapsed, subsequently actuate a relay. The relay is operable to then close a switch which results in a current surge through a fuse, thereby blowing the fuse and interrupting a supply of power to the vehicle ignition system. An alternate embodiment of the present invention includes a key-contained fuse holder for containing the fuse within the ignition key of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: April 18, 1995
    Inventor: Walter K. Hall
  • Patent number: 5401924
    Abstract: A remote battery switch for motor vehicles provides for the remotely controlled disconnection and connection of the vehicle electrical system, for long term storage or carjacking threats. The switch attaches directly to the side terminal or top post connector of a standard motor vehicle battery, without further need for additional structural attachment. A cord or cable is run from the battery switch to the vehicle passenger interior, and is preferably discreetly accessible by the vehicle operator should the need arise. The cord or cable serves to open the switch by releasing a magnetic contact and withdrawing the magnetic switch bar against a spring, whereupon the switch bar is caught and retained by a double acting catch. A second pull on the cord releases the catch, whereupon the spring pulls the magnetic switch bar into magnetic contact with the other switch point to close the circuit. Thus, the switch may be remotely opened and closed using purely tensile forces in the cord.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1994
    Date of Patent: March 28, 1995
    Inventor: Frank Armanno, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5398532
    Abstract: A circuit module for a vehicle ignition lock. The circuit module houses a pair of electrical contacts on either side of a key way for closing a circuit between the contacts and a resistor provided in a key. The circuit module includes a cover and base adapted to be secured to one another for enveloping and securely holding a wire set within the module and for positioning the contacts in proper alignment with the key way. The circuit module is adapted to fit into a cylindrical cavity provided in a bezel of the lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 21, 1995
    Assignee: Briggs & Stratton Corporation
    Inventors: David C. Janssen, Vilnis Gagainis
  • Patent number: 5398017
    Abstract: An anti-theft device with a sound warning device for attachment to the steering wheel of an automobile comprising a sound warning device deposited in an inner cavity in an elongate rod of the steering lock, the sound warning device consisting of a case, an electronic circuit board contained in the case and having electronic components to send out a signal to a sound system of the automobile to give out a warning sound in case the body or the steering wheel should be touched by a would-be burglar, and a cover closing on the case in the cavity in the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 14, 1995
    Inventor: Tian-Yuan Chen
  • Patent number: 5396215
    Abstract: A band housing a transmitter is non-removably mounted about a portion of the body of a person who is not authorized to operate a motor vehicle. A receiver is mounted in the vehicle in close proximity to the vehicle steering wheel to detect signals from the transmitter when the person wearing the band is situated in proximity with the steering wheel. Upon receiving a signal from the transmitter, the receiver generates an output signal to electric circuit control elements which inhibit the operation of the vehicle. The circuit elements include a relay whose switchable contact is connected between the vehicle battery and the ignition coil. Alternately, the contact of the relay is connected to a solenoid which activates a steering or ignition lock mechanism. A detector may be provided in combination with the transmitter and the receiver to detect movement of the vehicle steering wheel or contact of the wearer of the band with the steering wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 1992
    Date of Patent: March 7, 1995
    Inventor: Terry A. Hinkle
  • Patent number: 5394135
    Abstract: A motorized vehicle anti-theft system which is passive by being automatically armed (i.e., does not require a vehicle occupant to set the system). Once power has been turned on to the vehicle, detection of an attempt to start the vehicle motor or the opening of a vehicle door starts a predetermined time cycle. If a first reset signal is not received before the end of the time cycle, a vehicle disabling circuit is set. After that, a detection of actuation of the vehicle brake will cause the disabling circuit to only permit the vehicle engine to operate properly near the engine idling speed, and set off an alarm. Only proper generation of the first and a second reset signal will allow the vehicle to be operated properly again.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 15, 1992
    Date of Patent: February 28, 1995
    Inventor: David M. Stadler
  • Patent number: 5389911
    Abstract: An alarm system for detecting glass breakage has a switch having an input terminal, output terminal, and control terminal. The input terminal is electrically connected to a power source such as a battery. An electrically conductive trace is formed on glass, and is electrically connected to the output terminal of the switch. A controller is electrically connected to the control terminal of the switch and controls the operation of the switch between conducting and non-conducting states. The controller measures and compares a reference output terminal voltage of said switching means while said switching means is in the conducting state, a second output terminal voltage while the switch is in the non-conducting state and a third output terminal voltage of the switch while the switching is in the conducting state. The controller generates a control signal in response to a comparison of said measured voltages.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 14, 1995
    Assignee: Ford Motor Company
    Inventor: Adrian Madau
  • Patent number: 5387897
    Abstract: An arrangement for a motor vehicle with a central locking system and an anti-theft alarm system is controlled by a control device which both systems have in common and which monitors the operating condition of the systems. For this purpose, the locked condition and the unlocked condition of all locks or doors of the motor vehicle is monitored by additional switching contacts. A differentiation is made between at least three operating conditions which are indicated by visually distinguishable flashing signals output by electro-optical indicating elements in the door locking buttons by visually distinguishable flashing signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 7, 1995
    Assignee: Porsche AG
    Inventors: Rolf Bechtle, Walter Hacker