Magnetic Or Electrostatic Field Control (e.g., Shielding) Patents (Class 307/91)
-
Patent number: 5765915Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for adjusting the height of the seat cushion for a vehicle which includes a rubber tube positioned under the seat cushion, a pressure sensing means positioned under the rubber tube and moving upward or downward depending upon the load supplied on the seat cushion, a first switch and a second switch selectively operating a compressor and a vacuum pump depending upon a signal from the pressure sensing means, and a limit switch cutting off the first switch on contact with the rubber tube.Type: GrantFiled: December 24, 1996Date of Patent: June 16, 1998Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventor: Chang Seog Lee
-
Patent number: 5767587Abstract: There is provided a distributor of an electric automobile in which the number of switch devices and opening and closing devices is reduced without a sacrifice of functions to thereby simplify and make small a structure. The distributor 10 includes contacts 12P and 12N for cutting off or connecting a driving circuit 68D of an air conditioner 68 and a DC-to-DC converter 66 from or to a main battery 64, electromagnetic coils 12RP and 12RN for opening and closing the contacts 12P and 12N, and a control terminal 12C for controlling the electromagnetic coils 12RP and 12RN.Type: GrantFiled: September 26, 1996Date of Patent: June 16, 1998Assignee: Suzuki Motor CorporationInventor: Hidetaka Nishikiori
-
Patent number: 5761049Abstract: An apparatus comprises a condenser such as a condenser for reducing power source noise to be implemented on a board, a conductor for supplying a current passing through the condenser, and a current path comprising conductors and components which are installed in the neighborhood of at least one of the condenser and conductor and the effective inductance component of the condenser is reduced by passing a current through the current path in the phase opposite to that of a current passing through the condenser and conductor.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 1995Date of Patent: June 2, 1998Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.Inventors: Hitoshi Yoshidome, Takashi Maruyama, Kazuo Hirota
-
Patent number: 5760488Abstract: The invention relates an energy supply network for a vehicle powered by a fuel cell or by a battery. The energy supply network according to the invention is configured as an IT-network in which the consuming devices linked with the load current circuit are electrically connected with the vehicle body by a low impedance. An insulation monitoring device which consists of a measuring-bridge balancing stage and a buffer amplifier stage is connected between the load current circuit and the vehicle body.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 1996Date of Patent: June 2, 1998Assignee: Daimler-Benz AGInventor: Josef Sonntag
-
Patent number: 5760701Abstract: A keyless entry system for use with a mobile transmitter for transmitting an ID code specified therefor along with a command for vehicle door lock/unlock remote control to a control unit. The control unit is operable in an ID code registration mode for registering an ID code transmitted from the mobile transmitter. The transmitted ID code is compared with the registered ID code to permit the remote control specified by the transmitted command when the transmitted ID code is identical with the registered ID code. Upon completion of a first predetermined procedure including a plurality of sequential events of at least one first movable vehicle member provided on the vehicle, a second movable vehicle member is changed from a first position to a second position.Type: GrantFiled: March 13, 1996Date of Patent: June 2, 1998Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Yoshihiro Mitsumoto
-
Patent number: 5761039Abstract: Electronic load switch has an electronic power switch and a control circuit mounted on a hybrid ceramic. Plug lugs are soldered directly to the hybrid ceramic to form a motor-vehicle-typical plug contact element which is engagement compatible with standard plug-contact elements of electromechanical load switches. The electronic load switch of this invention can therefore, without further expense, replace previous electromechanical load switches.Type: GrantFiled: June 7, 1996Date of Patent: June 2, 1998Assignee: Hella KG Hueck & Co.Inventors: Heinrich Bruees, Petrik Lange
-
Patent number: 5757088Abstract: The invention relates to a remote control device for mobile and stationary concrete pumps. The remote control device has a central control device to control groups and signalling units of the concrete pump and a remote control appliance connected to the central control device via a multicore remote control cable. The central control device has an emergency stop switch gear remote controlled by a mechanically actuatable emergency stop switch fitted in the remote control appliance, the power supply to which is taken via a forced first switch contact of the emergency stop switch and which triggers an emergency stop if the power supply fails. In order to ensure reliable emergency cut-off even in the event of a short circuit in the emergency stop system when the emergency stop switch is actuated, there is an overload fuse in the central control-side lead to the first switch contact designed as a break contact.Type: GrantFiled: September 30, 1996Date of Patent: May 26, 1998Assignee: Putzmeister-Werk Maschinenfabrik GmbHInventors: Paul Baeumen, Wolf-Michael Petzold
-
Patent number: 5757624Abstract: A DC--DC converter unit includes a high-voltage circuit having a main fuse provided in a case, a branch circuit branched from the high-voltage circuit on a downstream side of the main fuse, a subfuse inserted in the branch circuit, and a DC-DC converter connected to a terminal of the branch circuit. A main battery, mounted on an electric vehicle, is connected to a primary side of the high-voltage circuit. A high-voltage load is connected to a secondary side of the high-voltage circuit. The circuit of the high-voltage portion can be shortened, so that covered harnesses and waterproof connectors used in the high-voltage portion can be reduced to thereby reduce the cost. Further, the reliability of the high-voltage portion can also be improved.Type: GrantFiled: December 20, 1996Date of Patent: May 26, 1998Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Kenji Kawaguchi
-
Patent number: 5743487Abstract: A video monitor is deployed from an aircraft overhead storage compartment via a monitor-drive shaft selectively connected to an electric motor and retracted back into the compartment by a spring connected to the shaft. The monitor has limited rotational movement in both directions relative to the shaft. A bump sensor detects when the monitor has moved from its deployed position relative to the shaft as a result of being struck by a passenger and trips a solenoid. The solenoid, in turn, disengages the monitor-drive shaft from the motor and allows the spring to return the monitor to its stores position.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 1996Date of Patent: April 28, 1998Assignee: Hollingsead International, Inc.Inventor: Mark X. Rice
-
Patent number: 5744874Abstract: A car remote control system utilizing a signal in the form of electromagnetic wave or infrared ray called `keyless entry`. When receiving a predetermined wake-up signal, an MPU is once operated even when the received input signal is a noise signal to perform only judging operation of whether or not the input signal is normal. Only when judging that the input signal is a normal wake-up signal, the MPU controllably causes an electronic circuit to be shifted to a usual operation mode. When judging that the input signal is the noise signal prior to full input of the tuner signal, the MPU immediately shifts to a sleep mode. Thereby current consumption of an electronic control circuit can be suppressed.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 1996Date of Patent: April 28, 1998Assignees: Hitachi, Ltd., Hitachi Car Engineering Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tatsuya Yoshida, Mitsuru Kon'i
-
Patent number: 5739592Abstract: A system for providing an electrical power and electronic communication link between a tractor and trailer includes a tractor module associated with the tractor and a trailer module associated with the trailer. The tractor module controls a plurality of switching devices operable to switch a corresponding plurality of electrical lines extending between the tractor electrical system and the trailer to one of an electrical power line, a ground line and a communication line. The trailer module similarly controls a plurality of switching devices operable to switch a corresponding plurality of electrical lines extending between the trailer lighting system and the tractor electrical system to one of an electrical system of the trailer a communication line.Type: GrantFiled: January 31, 1996Date of Patent: April 14, 1998Assignee: Grote Industries, Inc.Inventors: Bruce S. Rigsby, Troy Lynn Roney
-
Patent number: 5739761Abstract: A vehicle is equipped with an engine control ECU, an anti-lock brake system control ECU, a transmission control ECU and a meter control ECU. Each ECU shares information with the others by communicating and by performing mutual malfunction diagnosis operations through communication; also, backup operations are performed. After the deactuation of the ignition switch, malfunction diagnosis operations are prohibited by prohibiting communication between the engine control ECU which is supplied with electric power and the other ECUs which are not supplied with electric power. After the deactuation of the ignition switch, when a predetermined time lapses after the actuation of the ignition switch from the state wherein the ECU is supplied with power, prohibition on communication with ECUs is released.Type: GrantFiled: December 1, 1995Date of Patent: April 14, 1998Assignee: Nippondenso Co., Ltd.Inventor: Masayuki Kobayashi
-
Patent number: 5734330Abstract: An anti-theft car protection device includes a key having an IC-chip embedded therein, and an ignition switch that can be turned by the key to any "OFF" position, an "ACC" position and an "ON" position. The device further includes an antenna mounted near the ignition switch, and a communication module that provides a radio communication between the IC-chip of the key and the antenna. The device also includes an immobilizer controller that determines, in accordance with an instruction signal issued from the communication module, whether or not the engine should be started. The communication module includes an electric field generating circuit that energizes the IC-chip of the key by causing the antenna to emit an electromagnetic wave, a transmitting/receiving circuit that carries out exchange of ID-codes with the IC-chip through the antenna, and a system control circuit that controls both the electric field generating circuit and the transmitting/receiving circuit.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 1995Date of Patent: March 31, 1998Assignee: Calsonic CorporationInventor: Shiroh Nakamura
-
Patent number: 5723916Abstract: An insulated gate electrical load driving device includes simple and accurate gate control circuitry for limiting load current therethrough. Preferably, all circuitry is formed of a single integrated circuit having the insulated gate load driving device dielectrically isolated from the gate control circuitry. The gate control circuitry may include either one, or both, of a zener diode and a resistor divider. An input drive signal to the circuit is accurately controlled by the gate control circuitry to thereby limit the saturation current through the insulated load driving device, and hence the load current, to predetermined current level. Preferably, the predetermined saturation current level falls within a range of saturation currents of the insulated gate load driving device that is substantially constant over a wide operating temperature range.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 1996Date of Patent: March 3, 1998Assignee: Delco Electronics CorporationInventors: Donald Ray Disney, John Robert Shreve
-
Patent number: 5723912Abstract: A vehicle controller is presented for use in a remote keyless entry system for controlling a vehicle device function. The controller includes a receiver for receiving a RF request signal including a security code uniquely identifying a portable transmitter that is authorized entry into the vehicle and for controlling access to the vehicle when the received security code matches a prestored security code. A circuit board carries the receiver and a flat ground plane. A helical antenna is mounted on the circuit board and includes an elongated conductive member having one end electrically connected to the receiver means and an opposite free end. The conductive member is helically coiled about a helical axis intermediate the ends thereof with the helical axis being perpendicular to the ground plane. The antenna is configured to provide an omni-directional radiation pattern about the helical axis.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 1996Date of Patent: March 3, 1998Assignee: TRW Inc.Inventors: Mahmood Ahrabian, William P. Sullivan
-
Patent number: 5705860Abstract: A vehicle passenger information system, for example an inflight entertainment system, has a combination of improvements for reducing electromagnetic interference ("EMI") and electrostatic discharge ("ESD"). A microprocessor based system controller has a system controller chassis with a first conductive EMI shield layer, a low impedance aircraft chassis ground path directly electrically connected to the shield layer and to controller components. Additionally, a display unit has a chassis with a second conductive EMI shield layer enclosing a plurality of PCBs directly electrically connected to the shield layer. The display unit supports are grounded through a plurality of system connectors penetrating the display chassis and a low impedance display unit ground path directly electrically connects the two shield layers. A method of decreasing the EMI and ESD susceptibility of, and the levels of radiated EMI from, a vehicle entertainment system is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: March 29, 1996Date of Patent: January 6, 1998Assignees: Sony Corporation, Sony Trans ComInventors: Loi Ninh, Gerald Lester
-
Patent number: 5701116Abstract: A system for converting the tail light signals of a towing vehicle to control the tail lights of a towed vehicle. The converter includes full buffering for all input signals thereby minimizing any loading effect caused by the converter or the towed vehicle. Also, the converter employs an override circuit so that the towed vehicle brake lights operate even if the emergency flashers have been activated on the towing vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 27, 1994Date of Patent: December 23, 1997Assignee: Mascotech, Inc.Inventor: Eric Hoekstra
-
Patent number: 5701038Abstract: The firing loop of a SIR system has a firing element, a capacitor for passing AC pulses to the element and an inductance which varies according to application. A current sensor monitors each pulse and detects a threshold crossing on the trailing side of the pulse, and a toggle circuit operates a switch arrangement to terminate the pulse and initiate the next pulse of opposite polarity. This current feedback circuit varies the pulse frequency according to the loop inductance but the RMS loop current is independent of inductance.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 1996Date of Patent: December 23, 1997Assignee: Delco Electronics Corp.Inventor: Kevin Dale Kincaid
-
Patent number: 5698906Abstract: A remote controlled locking system employing a holographic window display, particularly adapted for vehicle use. The system includes a remotely-operated transmitter for transmitting locking and unlocking signals, and a locking mechanism that is locked and unlocked in response to the transmitted signals. The locking mechanism outputs a status signal or status signals, corresponding to at least one of the locking and unlocking signals. Control electronics process the status signals from the locking mechanism to provide control signals that are coupled to first and second light emitting members, such as LED arrays. The light emitting members produce light output signals in response to the control signals. First and second prism couplers are attached to a surface of a window and are optically coupled to the first and second light emitting members. First and second hologram decals that comprise the holographic window display are attached to the surface of the window and are responsive to the light output signals.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 1995Date of Patent: December 16, 1997Assignee: Hughes ElectronicsInventors: Anthony N. Gardner, Ronald T. Smith
-
Patent number: 5693985Abstract: A trailer electrical monitor function is implemented into a microprocessor based truck tractor and trailer electrical communication system where a programmable memory unit connected to a trailer electronic control unit is used by the trailer electronic control unit to store a trailer identification code, the result of which is connected through an interface circuit to the trailer electronic control unit where the result is then transmitted to a tractor electronic control unit and/or to an external programming unit. The tractor and trailer electronic control units control the state of a plurality of switching devices to establish the appropriate electrical connection into and out of a standard seven pin tractor/trailer electrical connector where high speed data communication links are used for control diagnostics.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 1997Date of Patent: December 2, 1997Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventors: Thomas A. Gee, E. James Lane
-
Patent number: 5691612Abstract: Harsh full voltage conductive switching action is removed from a commutator-type rotary switch integral with a motor assembly and is placed in relay contacts external to the motor assembly by controlling reduced current through the rotary switch to the relay to maintain the relay energized after a control voltage is removed from the relay, and initiating a fixed time one-shot pulse generator in response to the rotary switch opening the reduced current to de-energize the relay and switch the load into a dynamic braking circuit at a particularly timed moment.Type: GrantFiled: January 29, 1996Date of Patent: November 25, 1997Assignee: Eaton CorporationInventor: Lawrence G. Corey
-
Patent number: 5684340Abstract: An arrangement for preventing electromagnetic interference is aimed at attenuating electromagnetic emissions in electronic apparatus, especially those having a printed circuit board, a conductive enclosure, and requiring external connections to other devices. The arrangement comprises a division of the printed circuit board into two zones, a first zone having sources of unwanted electromagnetic energy, and a second zone which is electrically connected with the first zone via conductors which allows the second zone to connect to other devices. Filtering devices are incorporated into the printed circuit board and, in conjunction with integrated conducting zones, provide suitable connections to a metallic protecting enclosure in order to remove or to attenuate unwanted signal components from the signals being transmitted from the first zone to the second zone via the conductors.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 1996Date of Patent: November 4, 1997Assignee: Hewlett-Packard CompanyInventors: Xavier Soler, Richard Lewis, Andrew M. Frost, Robert F. German
-
Patent number: 5675189Abstract: A vehicle multiplex transmission apparatus which can operate all the auxiliary units of a vehicle even when a power supply line of the vehicle is locally short-circuited. This vehicle multiplex transmission apparatus includes a plurality of control nodes arranged in respective portions of a vehicle, for controlling vehicle auxiliary units, and a multiplex transmission line for connecting among the plurality of control nodes. The control nodes are connected to a power supply node arranged at a predetermined position of a vehicle body through two independent systems of first and second power supply lines. The first power supply line supplies power to vehicle travel auxiliary units. The second power supply line supplies power to general system auxiliary units, but it can supply power to the travel auxiliary units as needed.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 1994Date of Patent: October 7, 1997Assignees: Yazaki Corporation, Mazda Motor CorporationInventors: Mitsuru Anma, Nozomi Kawasaki, Seiji Hirano, Osamu Michihira, Hideki Nakazono, Masaaki Shimizu, Kouji Umegaki
-
Patent number: 5672920Abstract: A hybrid vehicle includes a power unit communicating power between a turbine alternator, flywheel and traction motor. The power unit stores DC power in capacitors and places the power on DC bus for use in driving the induction machines. Power transistors receive the DC power from the DC bus and are pulse width modulated to output a synthesized AC wave form at their output. An Ac bus assembly comprises the power transistor modules connected in a plane and each having contact pads formed thereon for providing AC current sources. A bus bar interconnects at least one of the current sources to a peripheral device. The bus bar comprises a plurality of elongated flat plates having a width substantially greater than its thickness and laminated to one another.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 1996Date of Patent: September 30, 1997Assignee: Chrysler CorporationInventors: Kevin J. Donegan, Dennis E. Hartzell, Gary P. Millas, William R. Snow
-
Patent number: 5668415Abstract: In an arrangement of harnesses in a vehicle, a plurality of harnesses connected to a plurality of control units and electronic parts are bundled and disposed in each section of the vehicle so that a bundle of harnesses (25) in one (20) of the sections are connected to a bundle of harnesses in another section (30) via a multiple connector (70). The harnesses bundle (25) in the section (20) is separated into at least two harness bundles (25A, 25B). One (25A) of the two harness bundles is directly connected to a connector (31a) of a control unit (31) in the different section (30). The other harness bundle (25B) is connected to a harness bundle (35C) in the different section (30) via the multiple connector (70).Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 1995Date of Patent: September 16, 1997Assignee: Kansei CorporationInventor: Masafumi Nagami
-
Patent number: 5661346Abstract: A circuit arrangement for an automotive electrical power system to connect an electrical load to the vehicle battery power system either directly so that the load is powered continuously or through an ignition switch so that the load is powered only when the ignition switch is turned on. A plurality of female spade-type contact receptacles includes a first receptacle for connection directly to the vehicle battery power system, a second receptacle for connection to the ignition switch and a third receptacle for connection to the load. The contact receptacles are disposed relative to each other for receiving an automotive-type fuse assembly, having parallel coplanar male spade-type contact plugs, alternately in a first position between the first and third contact receptacles and a second position between the second and third contact receptacles.Type: GrantFiled: April 12, 1995Date of Patent: August 26, 1997Assignee: Chrysler CorporationInventors: James W. Budzyn, Peter J. Byk
-
Patent number: 5656872Abstract: A communication cable for connecting a computer main body with a monitor to display an image on the monitor and to reduce electromagnetic wave interference, includes a plurality of video signal lines for transmitting video signals and ground lines respectively corresponding to the plurality of the video signal lines, each of the plurality of the video signal lines including a filter including an inductive element which is inserted in series with respect to the video signal line and a capacitive element which is connected in parallel between the video signal line and the ground line corresponding to the video signal line wherein respective nodes between the plurality of the capacitive elements each of which is included in the filter of the video signal line and the ground lines corresponding to the plurality of the video signal lines are connected with a common line. Thus, electromagnetic wave interference can be removed without variation of the video signal level.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 1995Date of Patent: August 12, 1997Assignee: Dae Sung Hi-Tech Co., Ltd.Inventor: Jae-Do Lee
-
Patent number: 5650764Abstract: A visual aid for assisting a driver backing up a towing vehicle to a drawn vehicle. A visual display includes a flat screen upon which are depicted images in the form of silhouettes or like simulations of the respective vehicles. This effect is provided by partially and selectively illuminating the screen. A sensor is placed on at least one of the vehicles for detecting relative alignment therebetween and proximity thereof. The sensor generates a signal which controls the screen. The silhouettes are moved on the screen in proportion to the actual relationship of the two vehicles. In a preferred embodiment, the image of the towing vehicle is stationary, and the image of the drawn vehicle moves responsive to input from the sensor. The sensor may employ an emitting coil and an induction coil, or may be of the reflected energy type, such as radar and infrared radiation. The display control preferably comprises a microprocessor.Type: GrantFiled: August 25, 1994Date of Patent: July 22, 1997Inventor: Deborah Y. McCullough
-
Patent number: 5648707Abstract: An intermittent windshield wiper system includes a wiper control module and a wiper switch which allows an operator to set a time delay between consecutive wipes of a windshield wiper. The wiper switch includes an input setting that allows an operator to set the time delay according to the operator's needs and weather conditions. The wiper control module records the time delay and controls a wiper motor to repeatedly actuate a windshield wiper with the operator-set time delay between consecutive actuations of the windshield wiper. In one embodiment, the control module includes a timer for measuring the time delay, a memory for recording the time delay and a motor control for controlling the wiper motor. A method of controlling a windshield wiper for a vehicle is also disclosed.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 1995Date of Patent: July 15, 1997Assignee: United Technologies Automotive, Inc.Inventor: James E. Salliotte
-
Patent number: 5648688Abstract: An automobile multiplex communication system has a plurality of control units mounted on an automobile body and having respective circuits which are connected to communication signal lines through respective connectors for multiplex communications between the control units. Shield wires which cover the communication signal lines between the control units are electrically separate from the connectors and connected to ground. The shield wires have respective ends grounded to a conductor of the automobile body outside of the control units or grounded to conductor housings of the control units.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 1996Date of Patent: July 15, 1997Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yuji Nagatani, Hiroshi Hashimoto
-
Patent number: 5635775Abstract: An electro-magnetic interference suppressor includes a segmented array of ceramic feed-through capacitors, and a conductive fence which is attached to the capacitor array about its periphery. The fence is attached to a ground of a printed circuit board such that a generally planar surface of the segmented array lies adjacent to a planar surface of the printed circuit board. The suppressor provides an effective filter for eliminating unwanted noise occurring in electronic circuitry. The fence, in one embodiment, is surface mounted and soldered to a surface ground pad of the printed circuit board. In another embodiment, the fence includes a ground pin which extends into printed circuit board for contact with the circuit board ground. The ground pin may be soldered in place or may include a compliant section for press-fit reception within a through-hole.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 1995Date of Patent: June 3, 1997Inventors: Richard H. Colburn, Donald F. Hosmer
-
Patent number: 5616964Abstract: A simple operator presence override circuit is connected between available terminals on a PTO switch and a brake switch, and to the seat relay of the operator presence system. The override circuit permits continued operation of the engine under certain restricted conditions when the operator leaves the vehicle seat. A blocking diode connects one side of the seat relay to ground via the brake switch and one set of terminals on the PTO switch. With the PTO switch in the off condition and the vehicle braking system activated so the brake switch is closed, the seat relay remains activated to prevent operation of the ignition grounding circuit that otherwise would shut the engine down when the operator leaves his seat. Switching the PTO switch on or deactivating the braking system without an operator on the seat will automatically open the seat relay so that the engine is killed.Type: GrantFiled: September 19, 1995Date of Patent: April 1, 1997Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventor: Rudolph A. Peterson, Jr.
-
Patent number: 5616969Abstract: Coaxially sheathed single core conductors are employed in this power distribution system. A current of equal magnitude and opposite in direction to that flowing in each core conductor is fed back through the coaxial sheath of that conductor so as to create a neutralizing magnetic field generated by the current flowing through each core conductor to result in substantially no magnetic field emitting from the distribution lines. It also reduces line reactance to provide more even current distribution of the current amongst the parallel conductors.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 1995Date of Patent: April 1, 1997Inventor: Irena Morava
-
Patent number: 5608629Abstract: Crash data from actual vehicle crashes is manipulated to produce new hybrid crash data which contains different acceleration peaks while retaining the overall characteristics of the original crash data. The new crash data is realistic and can be used to test or verify crash management components such as airbag deployment sensors and to demonstrate the robustness of components to different crashes without the expense of running another crash test.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 1994Date of Patent: March 4, 1997Assignee: Ford Motor CompanyInventors: Mark A. Cuddihy, J. B. Drummond, Jr., Daniel J. Bourquin
-
Patent number: 5608270Abstract: A vehicle restraint system that includes an impact sensor for sensing a vehicle impact to provide an electrical impact signal, an occupant restraint such as an air bag to restrain motion of a vehicle occupant, and an electronic control circuit responsive to the impact signal for operating the occupant restraint. The impact sensor includes a permanent magnet axially slidable within a linear cavity and resiliently biased to one end of the cavity, such that vehicle impact forces on the sensor urge the magnet to slide axially toward the opposing end of the cavity against the biasing forces. A magnetic sensor is disposed adjacent to the cavity and is characterized by providing the electrical impact signal as an analog electrical signal that varies in magnitude as a continuous monotonic function of axial position of the magnet within the cavity.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 1995Date of Patent: March 4, 1997Inventor: Jack B. Meister
-
Patent number: 5608269Abstract: Increasingly, motor vehicles are being equipped with safety systems for vehicle occupants and where these safety systems are controlled by electrically actuated triggering means such as ignition pills for airbags that in turn are controlled from an output stage. The invention demonstrates a method that ensures safe and uninterrupted operation of these triggering means and which protects the output stage from being destroyed should a fault occur as a result of, for example, an ignition pill by-pass.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 1995Date of Patent: March 4, 1997Assignee: Temic Telefunken microelectronic GmbHInventors: Gunter Fendt, Peter Hora, Hans Spies
-
Patent number: 5608271Abstract: An electric current distribution system is provided for a plurality of types of automotive vehicles. The distribution system is installed in a vehicle compartment and distributes current from an input terminal to loads (6) via a plurality of output terminals. The distribution system includes a box (10) having input terminals at least equal in number to the maximum number of output terminals necessary for the different types of vehicles. A reading device (12) is provided in the box (10) for reading vehicle specific data stored in a memory (11) that may be outside the box (10), for storing in advance the vehicle specific data for each type of vehicle. A controller (16) is provided in the box (10), and receives the vehicle specific data from the reading device (12), specifies which output terminals out of the plurality of output terminals are to be used and outputs a corresponding control signal.Type: GrantFiled: August 30, 1995Date of Patent: March 4, 1997Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.Inventors: Yuuji Saka, Takahiro Onizuka
-
Patent number: 5602425Abstract: The invention provides a seat-occupancy-detection device in a motor vehicle, by means of which seat functions can be actuated dependent on the load acting on the seat, which device is configured such that it can be utilized and implemented in a more versatile manner. By using a data bus in the vehicle, which provides the functions connected to the data bus with items of information throughout the vehicle, the area around a seating position is automatically adapted based on seat occupancy.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 1994Date of Patent: February 11, 1997Assignee: Mercedes-Benz AGInventors: Volker Wilhelmi, Ernst Maier
-
Patent number: 5596233Abstract: A light switching device for a motor vehicle, in which a switching component, capable of more than one switching position, for switching on and off a plurality of lamps of the operating illumination of a motor vehicle, a indicator for illuminating functions and an electrical plug-in connection device are integrated, are insertable in one piece into the dashboard or the instrument panel of the motor vehicle. The device integrates the operating illumination control, the circuit fuses appertaining to the operating illumination and the circuit monitoring, such that the fuses are easily accessible at the level of the actuating handle of the at least one switching component for the illumination control. The device has a patchboard for exchangeable fuses, and at least one integrated semiconductor circuit, monitoring current paths for current flows, for realizing at least one checking and/or warning function.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 1994Date of Patent: January 21, 1997Assignee: Mercedes-Benz AGInventors: Heinz Leiber, Heinz G. Burghoff, Karlheinz Mangold, Michael Geber, Hartmut Fitz
-
Patent number: 5594283Abstract: A motor vehicle having a plurality of pivotal doors and a sliding door each movable between a closed and an open position has a lock system with a respective lock on each of the doors having an electrical motor energizable to set the respective lock in a locked position and in an unlocked position. A sensor at the sliding door produces a closed-door output when the sliding door is closed and an open-door output when the sliding door is open. Contacts on the sliding door are connected to the respective motor and contacts on the vehicle are engageable with the sliding-door contacts only in the closed position of the sliding door. A command unit can generate a lock-doors output and an unlock-doors output and an electrical controller is connected to the sensor, to the command unit, to the pivotal-door motors, and to the motor-vehicle contacts for energizing the pivotal-door motors to place the pivotal-door locks in the locked position after generation of the lock-doors signal.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 1995Date of Patent: January 14, 1997Assignee: Kiekert AktiengesellschaftInventors: Peter Bartel, Frank Kleefeldt
-
Patent number: 5594615Abstract: Method and apparatus for the reduction of the intensity of magnetic field emissions from display devices and other magnetic field emitters comprising an active magnetic field bucking system and a passive magnetic shield, for use either singularly or in combination. Various circuits are disclosed for generating a bucking current necessary to buck the emitted magnetic field. The magnetic shield comprises a material selected from the group consisting of manganese or aluminum doped yttrium aluminum or yttrium iron garnet, iron doped glass, iron based thin films, ferrous fluoride, ferrous borate, and combinations thereof.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 1995Date of Patent: January 14, 1997Assignee: MTI, Inc.Inventors: Johannes Spijkerman, Hubert F. Flamant
-
Patent number: 5592029Abstract: A system includes a selector switch and a control device. The selector switch is positioned inside a cab of a work vehicle and coupled to main and remote switches, which are in turn coupled to a voltage source. The selector switch can be used to select standard and remote modes that allow, respectively, the main and remote switches to engage and disengage a power takeoff (PTO) on the work vehicle. The control device is coupled to the switches and the PTO to interpret combinations of positions of the switches for engagement and disengagement of the PTO, preferably based on testing of the combinations with stored preselected conditions. Further, the control device activates warning signalers according to conditions of the system.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1995Date of Patent: January 7, 1997Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventors: Jurgen Hollstein, Gerd Redemann
-
Patent number: 5583735Abstract: A video monitor deployment/retraction apparatus includes a frame located in an aircraft overhead compartment and a monitor pivotally mounted on the frame for rotation between a stored and a deployed position. A spring biases the monitor to its stored position where is releasably retained by a locking mechanism. A solenoid and actuating arms selectively disable the locking mechanism to allow the monitor to be lowered to its deployed position and enable a latching mechanism when the monitor has reached its deployed position to retain the monitor in that position. The latching means is disabled when the monitor is bumped by a passenger while in the deployed position to allow the spring to return the monitor to the stored position.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 1994Date of Patent: December 10, 1996Assignee: Hollingsead International, Inc.Inventors: Raymond J. Pease, Mark X. Rice
-
Patent number: 5581129Abstract: The MFD kickout switch controls the drive system on a tractor's front wheels in response to the controlled movement of a three point hitch. Tractors which are equipped with a system that disengages the front drive wheels when a tighter turning radius is needed can utilize the kickout switch to automatically disengage the front wheel drive when an associated three point hitch is raised.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 1993Date of Patent: December 3, 1996Inventors: Kenneth R. Woodard, Lloyd D. Arthur
-
Patent number: 5576686Abstract: In the case of a switch arrangement for reducing the closed circuit current when motor vehicles are parked, including a controllable switch for the central disconnecting essentially of all power supply consuming devices from the motor vehicle battery, the electric supply input of an electric anti-theft device is inseparably connected with the motor vehicle battery. The electric anti-theft device receives an input signal corresponding to the position of the controllable switch and queries the position of a manually operable switch for sensitizing and desensitizing the anti-theft device less often when the controllable switch is open than when the controllable switch is closed.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 1994Date of Patent: November 19, 1996Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke AGInventors: Gerhard Westermeir, Reinhard Busch, Johann Leupolz
-
Patent number: 5576582Abstract: An automatic pump control for a pump such as a marine vessel bilge pump uses solid state components and has no moving parts. A first integrated logic device activates an FET transistor and completes a circuit which turns the pump on when the water reaches a predetermined high level and in association with an interconnected second integrated logic device keeps the pump on until the water subsequently reaches a predetermined low level. The control can be manually operated and includes circuitry to activate a high water alarm. The switch housing is molded in a manner which permits mounting directly to the pump.Type: GrantFiled: September 15, 1994Date of Patent: November 19, 1996Inventor: Paul S. White
-
Patent number: 5574316Abstract: A vehicle battery disabling apparatus for disconnecting a battery of a vehicle including a solenoid having a retracted orientation when electrically energized and an extended orientation when de-energized; a first switch mechanism coupleable between an electrical system of the vehicle and its battery and further engaged with the solenoid and having a first orientation when the solenoid is de-energized for allowing electrical energy to be delivered from the battery to the electrical system and a second orientation when the solenoid is energized for preventing such delivery; a spring-loaded plunger having a biased and extended orientation when impact pressure is applied thereto and an unbiased and retracted orientation when no impact pressure is applied; and a second switch mechanism coupled to the solenoid and further positioned in juxtaposed relation to the plunger and having an activated orientation when the plunger is momentarily abutted thereagainst in its biased and extended orientation for energizing theType: GrantFiled: August 31, 1995Date of Patent: November 12, 1996Inventor: Emil W. Nieschulz
-
Method and apparatus for reducing the intensity of magnetic field emissions from video display units
Patent number: 5561333Abstract: Method and apparatus for the reduction of the intensity of magnetic field emissions from video display units (VDU) in the vicinity of the user comprising a wire coil shaped to mimic the shape of conventional VDU deflection coils draped over a VDU to produce a cancelling magnetic field synchronous with the magnetic field produced by the unit's deflection coil. The cancellation coil is driven by a signature sensor disposed forward of the deflection coil that senses the characteristics of the magnetic field produced by the deflection coil. The gain of the cancellation coil is adjusted to maximize the cancellation coil's cancellation effect in the vicinity of the VDU user.Type: GrantFiled: September 14, 1994Date of Patent: October 1, 1996Assignee: MTI, Inc.Inventor: Ivan H. Darius -
Patent number: 5554890Abstract: An object of the present invention is provide an ignition circuit for a squib in an air bag in a vehicle able to supply sufficient energy to ignite the squib which does not use converter or a high capacity capacitor.The first capacitor 12 and the second capacitor 13 are charged by the battery 11. The sensor 17 is closed and the control circuit 10 makes the NPN type transistor 19 active when a collision is detected. The squib 16 is connected to the junction of the first capacitor 12 and the second capacitor 13 so that sufficient energy can be supplied to the squib even when a converter is not used.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 1994Date of Patent: September 10, 1996Assignees: Fujitsu Ten Limited, Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Kenichi Kinoshita
-
Patent number: 5548094Abstract: A mounting base for an associated inductive proximity switch, with the mounting base having an approximately beaker-shaped plastic housing so constructed that the switching behavior of the proximity switch is independent of the respective mounting surfaces. A metal ring is disposed internally on a base bottom of the mounting base, with a diameter of the ring being approximately equal to transverse dimensions of the proximity switch. The metal ring is advantageously located in a corner area of the base bottom and a jacket surface of the mounting base.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 1994Date of Patent: August 20, 1996Assignee: Werner Turck GmbH & Co. KGInventor: Burkhard Tigges