Including Immobilization Patents (Class 340/426.11)
  • Patent number: 8344849
    Abstract: Method for assuring that the operator of a vehicle is an authorized driver, the method including utilizing an onboard, multi-mode driver identification system to ascertain whether an operator is an authorized driver. A first driver identification procedure is performed on a present operator of the vehicle and determining whether the present operator is an authorized or unauthorized driver of the vehicle. A second driver identification procedure is performed on the present operator of the vehicle and determining whether the present operator is an authorized or unauthorized driver of the vehicle, wherein the first and second driver identification procedures are performed with a time interval therebetween, the time interval being dependent upon the nature of the work being performed by the operator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Assignee: Volvo Technology Corporation
    Inventors: Petter Larsson, Andreas Hagemann, Hanna Björk
  • Patent number: 8334761
    Abstract: A multi sensor detection and disabling lock system includes detector cases for holding interchangeable detectors that sample for chemical, biological and radiological compounds, agents and elements, with each detector case disposed in or upon the monitored product whereupon light alarm indicators (color coded) on the detector case light up when a specific compound or agent is detected whereupon the detector case transmits detection information to a monitoring computer terminal and transmits a signal to a lock disabler engaged to the product to lock or disable the product's lock thereby preventing untrained, unauthorized and unequipped individual's from gaining access and entry to the product, and also preventing further contamination of the area. An authorized individual resets the detection system, and the system's power source is electrical, battery or computer generated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Inventor: Larry Golden
  • Patent number: 8334760
    Abstract: An antitheft device that activates in connection with tampering with a vehicle, includes an air-conditioning unit operation determining portion that determines whether an air-conditioning unit is about to be operated or is operating, and a restricting portion that performs control to prohibit or restrict activation of the antitheft device when it is determined by the air-conditioning unit operation determining portion that the air-conditioning unit is about to be operated or is operating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2012
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Masahiro Tanaka, Takeo Endo
  • Patent number: 8314690
    Abstract: To generally prevent people from being able to take out and move shopping carts from shopping cart parking areas at times when the store is not open, the blocking devices on the shopping carts are activated when the shopping carts are parked in shopping cart parking areas when the store is not open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 20, 2012
    Inventors: Horst Sonnendorfer, Franz Wieth
  • Publication number: 20120280805
    Abstract: A control module provides for immobilization of a vehicle. The control module includes an intelligent control disposed within a housing of the control module, a plurality of discrete inputs and a plurality of discrete outputs operatively connected to the intelligent control, at least one network interface operatively connected to the intelligent control, at least one user interface operatively connected to the intelligent control, and software stored for execution by the intelligent control, the software providing instructions to control functions of a vehicle associated with the control module, the functions including vehicle immobilization functions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Publication date: November 8, 2012
    Applicant: TRIMARK CORPORATION
    Inventors: David S. Magner, Anita L. Reichling
  • Patent number: 8299891
    Abstract: In a keyless entry system, a CPU in an ECU and a CPU in a remote control key each have an associated memory for storing respective function formulas, which are specified by primary function formula data. With this structure, function formulas used in the remote control key and the ECU can be changed to respective new function formulas. This technique makes it difficult to predict the function formulas used in the remote control key and the ECU, thereby further reducing any regularity of rolling codes generated by the function formulas.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Naoto Yamamoto, Hideaki Arai
  • Publication number: 20120268259
    Abstract: A monitored ignition system is provided. A monitored ignition lock unit is contained within a vehicle. The monitored ignition lock unit is in communication with a weight sensor in the driver's seat and a seatbelt detection feature of the vehicle. A monitored ignition lock managing system is contained remotely from the vehicle. The monitored ignition lock and the unit monitored ignition lock managing system are in wireless communication. The monitored ignition lock unit includes a handheld device and a receiving station. The handheld device includes a substance detector, such as a breathalyzer. A camera is aimed to photograph a user when engaged with the substance detector. The handheld device and the receiving station are connected via a tether. The tether is sized such that only a driver sitting relatively close to the monitored ignition lock unit docking can access the substance detector provided in the monitored ignition lock handheld device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2011
    Publication date: October 25, 2012
    Inventors: Patricia J. Igel, Jeffrey M. Igel
  • Publication number: 20120242469
    Abstract: Rule-based intoxicating substance testing associated with vehicles. At least some of the various embodiments are methods including: receiving a signal that a prospective driver intends to drive a vehicle; retrieving at least one previously stored rule regarding intoxicating substance testing associated the vehicle; retrieving data relevant to the rule; determining whether intoxicating substance testing is indicated by the rule; enabling the vehicle responsive to an indication that intoxicating substance testing is not indicated; and administering an intoxicating substance test to the prospective driver responsive to an indication that an intoxicating substance test is indicated. And if the intoxicating substance test is administered: enabling the vehicle responsive to the prospective driver passing the intoxicating substance test, the enabling by the onboard device; and disabling the vehicle responsive to the prospective driver failing the intoxicating substance test, the disabling by the onboard device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2011
    Publication date: September 27, 2012
    Applicant: GORDON*HOWARD ASSOCIATES, INC.
    Inventors: Gerald A. MORGAN, Christopher M. Macheca, Amy E. Rossetter, Stanley G. Schwarz
  • Patent number: 8275307
    Abstract: An audio integrator monitors the outputs of a plurality of audio sources, and a controller prioritizes the audio sources. An active audio detection circuit determines when one or more of the audio sources become active. When the two or more audio sources are active simultaneously, the controller directs the highest priority audio source to one or more speakers. If a lower priority audio signal is currently playing, newly active voice communication audio, such as communications or directional information, is delayed to preserve the beginning of the message during an audio switch-over. A currently-playing, lower-priority audio signal may be decreased in volume, and a tone unique to the new audio source sounded, prior to the switching the audio to the higher-priority source. During audio input (e.g., while actuating a push-to-talk button on a microphone), all active audio sources are quieted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: QUALCOMM Incorporated
    Inventor: Marquis D. Doyle, III
  • Patent number: 8249772
    Abstract: An electric wiring system of a motor vehicle with several control devices that communicate with each other via a data bus, and with an immobilizer is provided. In order to create an electric wiring system of a motor vehicle that includes an immobilizer with high reliability the immobilizer includes at least a first and a second control device from the plurality of control devices and an authentication apparatus, in particular an authentication control device. The authentication information of the plurality of control devices is supplied via the data bus to the authentication apparatus. The authentication cancels the immobilizer of the vehicle when the authentication information transmitted from the first and the second control device corresponds to the authentication information expected for the particular control devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Josef Wagenhuber, Burkhard Kuhls, Marc Lindlbauer, Harry Knechtel
  • Patent number: 8223002
    Abstract: Disclosed is an electronic control apparatus for a vehicle which includes: 1) first storage means for storing vehicle identification information unique to the vehicle; 2) second storage means for storing immobilizer identification information unique to the vehicle; 3) command receiving means for receiving, from an external control apparatus, an update command that commands the electronic control apparatus to update the vehicle identification information stored in the first storage means; and 4) information handling means for handling all the information stored in the first and second storage means. Moreover, in the electronic control apparatus, upon receipt of the update command by the command receiving means, the information handling means updates the immobilizer identification information stored in the second storage means as well as the vehicle identification information stored in the first storage means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2012
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Mikio Teramura, Takeo Umesaka
  • Patent number: 8207860
    Abstract: An automobile monitoring system to monitor user body characteristics includes at least one sensor to monitor at least one user body characteristic. The at least one sensor is operatively coupled to a body of a user to monitor the at least one user body characteristic while the user is operating an automobile. The at least one user body characteristic is at least a glucose level of the user's body. At least one transmitter is operatively coupled to the at least one sensor to communicate sensor data obtained from the at least one sensor while the user is operating the automobile. Automobile electronics are operatively coupled to the at least one transmitter to receive sensor data from the at least one sensor while the user is operating the automobile. The automobile electronics provide the sensor data to the user while the user is operating the automobile. A global positioning system (GPS) is operatively coupled to the automobile electronics to determine a current location of the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Medtronic MiniMed, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley J. Enegren, Himanshu Patel, Bogdan Madzar, Richard K. Yoon, Ajit S. Narang
  • Patent number: 8207859
    Abstract: An automobile monitoring system to monitor user body characteristics, includes at least one sensor to monitor at least one user body characteristic. The at least one sensor is operatively coupled to a body of a user to monitor the at least one user body characteristic while the user is operating an automobile. The at least one user body characteristic is at least a glucose level of the user's body. At least one transmitter is operatively coupled to the at least one sensor to communicate sensor data obtained from the at least one sensor while the user is operating the automobile. Automobile electronics are operatively coupled to the at least one transmitter to receive sensor data from the at least one sensor while the user is operating the automobile. The automobile electronics provide the sensor data to the user while the user is operating the automobile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2009
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Medtronic MiniMed, Inc.
    Inventors: Bradley J. Enegren, Himanshu Patel, Bogdan Madzar, Richard K. Yoon, Ajit S. Narang
  • Patent number: 8179230
    Abstract: A vehicle unlocking sequence includes passively authenticating a vehicle user, granting the authenticated vehicle user access to the vehicle and setting the vehicle main switch into an on-state. A vehicle locking sequence includes passively authenticating the vehicle user, configuring the vehicle, upon a first action from the authenticated vehicle user, into a first locking mode whereby access to the vehicle is denied to a non authenticated user, or configuring the vehicle, upon a second action from the authenticated vehicle user, into a second locking mode whereby access to the vehicle is denied to a non authenticated user and the vehicle main switch is set into an off-state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2012
    Assignee: Renault Trucks
    Inventors: Nicolas Lacour, Loïc Vincent
  • Patent number: 8111145
    Abstract: A single-button ignition control and starting system for a vehicle. The system comprises an onboard computer, a start button, a light source, a clutch sensor, engine sensor and an identity sensor. The computer is connected to the ignition system and starter motor. The start button is connected to the computer to indicate whether the start button is depressed. The light source is connected to the computer to selectively illuminate the start button in a first, a second and a third illumination color. The clutch sensor is connected to the computer to indicate whether the clutch pedal is depressed. The engine sensor is connected to the computer to indicate whether the engine is running. The identity sensor adapted to receive identity indicia and is connected to the computer for producing signals indicative of the identity indicia.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Veedims, LLC
    Inventor: Claudio R. Ballard
  • Patent number: 8106783
    Abstract: An input apparatus for a vehicle includes: an operation element operable by an occupant of the vehicle; a biological information acquisition element acquiring biological information of the occupant; an unawakened state detection element detecting an unawakened state of the occupant based on the biological information, wherein the unawakened state is defined by a predetermined state different from an awakened state; and an operation disabling element disabling an operation input from the operation element when the unawakened state detection element detects the unawakened state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Hiromune Wada, Takashi Aoki
  • Patent number: 8106752
    Abstract: A multi sensor detection and disabling lock system includes detector cases for holding interchangeable detectors that sample for chemical, biological and radiological compounds, agents and elements, with each detector case disposed in or upon the monitored product whereupon light alarm indicators (color coded) on the detector case light up when a specific compound or agent is detected whereupon the detector case transmits detection information to a monitoring computer terminal and transmits a signal to a lock disabler engaged to the product to lock or disable the product's lock thereby preventing untrained, unauthorized and unequipped individual's from gaining access and entry to the product, and also preventing further contamination of the area. An authorized individual resets the detection system, and the system's power source is electrical, battery or computer generated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Inventor: Larry Golden
  • Patent number: 8102247
    Abstract: The present invention is provided to suppress an increase of communication cost, immediately detect theft and illegal use of a moving object, and immediately deal with the theft and illegal use. A moving object monitoring device 10 is installed in a moving object 1, and transmits moving object information 15 of the moving object 1 to a managing server 4 which controls the moving object 1. The moving object monitoring device 10 includes a control unit 11 which transmits the moving object information 15 such that a transmission interval is shorter when a startup lock function for prohibiting the startup of the moving object is on than a transmission interval when the startup lock function is deactivated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventor: Shuuji Arakawa
  • Patent number: 8102249
    Abstract: An immobilizer type outputting part outputs information indicating that no immobilizer device is provided in the vehicle to an immobilizer-installed body ECU or a body ECU through an in-vehicle communication network in the case where an immobilizer type identification part of a remote start ECU judges that no immobilizer device is provided in the vehicle. In the case where the immobilizer type identification part judges that the immobilizer device is provided in the vehicle, the immobilizer type output part outputs information indicating the type of the immobilizer device to the immobilizer-installed body ECU or the body ECU through the in-vehicle communication network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Fujitsu Ten Limited
    Inventors: Takeshi Sakamoto, Yasuo Ono
  • Patent number: 8098128
    Abstract: The lock control system of the present invention makes it possible to perform lock control of a working machine both by remote actuation and by local actuation, so that the convenience of use and so on is enhanced. A lock setting device 140 is provided to the working machine. The lock setting device 140 is provided with a user password storage unit 144, a manager password storage unit 145, and a one-time password storage unit 146. The user is able to perform lock setting and release by local actuation using the user password. A maintenance person is able to perform lock setting and release by local actuation using the one-time password. And lock setting and release can also be performed by remote actuation via a satellite communication network. It is possible to perform lock setting and release by selecting the appropriate method for each individual scenario.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventor: Shuji Arakawa
  • Patent number: 8089347
    Abstract: A vehicle operation termination kit for rendering a vehicle inoperable for preventing unauthorized access thereof. The vehicle operation termination kit includes an enclosure, and a digital controller assembled within the enclosure. The digital controller is communicably coupled to a fuel pump and an ignition switch of the vehicle. The digital controller includes a receiver configured to receive an authorization code, and generate a first signal upon non-receipt of the authorization code. Moreover, the digital controller includes a timer communicably coupled to the receiver. The timer is configured to transmit a second signal to the fuel pump after a predetermined time delay from the generation of the first signal. The fuel pump of the vehicle is adapted to terminate operation upon receipt of the second signal, thereby rendering the vehicle inoperable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2012
    Inventor: Adalberto Aguirre
  • Publication number: 20110279252
    Abstract: A system for controlling movement of a personal mobility vehicle near a restricted region is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system includes a detector that is configured to be disposed on the personal mobility vehicle and that is configured to receive an electromagnetic signal transmitted to the restricted region. The system also includes a control unit configured to communicate with the detector. The control unit is further configured to determine proximity of the detector to the restricted region using information related to the signal received by the detector. The control unit is also configured to provide a command to inhibit movement of the personal mobility vehicle in response to the determined proximity of the vehicle to the restricted region.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 13, 2011
    Publication date: November 17, 2011
    Applicant: GATEKEEPER SYSTEMS, INC.
    Inventors: Scott J. Carter, Jesse M. James, Stephen E. Hannah
  • Patent number: 8035494
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a motor vehicle control device data transfer system and process. In particular, it relates to such a system and process for the transfer of data, subject to the risk of tampering, from a central data-processing device (12) at the motor vehicle manufacturer's to a motor vehicle data-processing device (5), such as an electronic drive engine control device, in which tamper-free data transfer is guaranteed. In this connection, an authentication enquiry value is generated by the vehicle data-processing device (5) and transferred to the central data-processing device (12) by means of a mobile data-processing device (9). This generates an authentication response value, which is transferred back by the same route with release data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2011
    Assignee: AGCO Corporation
    Inventors: Alfred Waldmann, Hans-Peter Spiess
  • Publication number: 20110193692
    Abstract: An anti-theft system for vehicle includes a lock mechanism comprising an anti-theft steering shaft lock and a hood lock; an access controller comprising a programmable processor, a digital identification device, a receiver, and a remote control; a hand brake sensor; a seat pressure sensor; a door lock sensor; a lock release unit; a driving unit; a vibration sensor unit; a deactivation unit; and an alarm unit wherein the access controller is adapted to lock or unlock the anti-theft steering shaft lock, and lock and unlock the hood lock.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 10, 2008
    Publication date: August 11, 2011
    Inventor: Jian-Jhong Fong
  • Publication number: 20110156888
    Abstract: A system includes a vapor sensor mounted in an engine compartment of a powered vehicle and an alarm device adapted to couple with a key ring, the alarm comprising hardware logic and-or logic embodied in machine readable memory devices to communicate with the vapor sensor and to provide an alarm when a hazardous vapor condition exists in the engine compartment.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2010
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Inventor: Patrick Dolan
  • Publication number: 20110140871
    Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for disabling a vehicle. An exemplary system includes, but is not limited to an antenna that is adapted to be attached to the vehicle. The antenna is configured to transmit and receive communication transmissions. A telematics unit is communicatively connected to the antenna. The telematics unit is adapted for attachment to the vehicle and is configured to communicatively connect to a necessary sub-system of the vehicle, to receive telecommunications from a user through the antenna, and to disable the necessary sub-system in response to receiving an instruction from the user to disable the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 10, 2009
    Publication date: June 16, 2011
    Applicant: GENERAL MOTORS LLC
    Inventors: JEFFREY P. CHRISTENSEN, MICHAEL D. SOLOMON, CARL J. HERING, RYAN M. EDWARDS, JASON J. PARKS, TRAVIS L. BRADBURN, LAURA R. CHMIELEWSKI
  • Patent number: 7944368
    Abstract: A system for controlling movement of a personal mobility vehicle near a restricted region is disclosed. In one embodiment, the system includes a detector that is configured to be disposed on the personal mobility vehicle and that is configured to receive an electromagnetic signal transmitted to the restricted region. The system also includes a control unit configured to communicate with the detector. The control unit is further configured to determine proximity of the detector to the restricted region using information related to the signal received by the detector. The control unit is also configured to provide a command to inhibit movement of the personal mobility vehicle in response to the determined proximity of the vehicle to the restricted region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Gatekeeper Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Scott J. Carter, Jesse M. James, Stephen E. Hannah
  • Patent number: 7940160
    Abstract: The convenience of use of a method for locking a working machine without locking actuation by a human being is improved. A lock control device (80) of a working machine (1) includes: a stop operation detection means (186) which detects that a predetermined stop operation has been performed by the working machine (1); a time period length measurement means (187) which measures the time period length from when it has been detected that the predetermined stop operation has been performed, to the present; and a lock setting means (188) which: if the time period length which has been measured is within a predetermined time period length, without locking the working machine, makes it possible to restart it without a password; and, if the time period length which has been measured is greater than the predetermined time period length, locks the working machine (1), and makes restarting possible upon password input.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventor: Shuji Arakawa
  • Patent number: 7932836
    Abstract: A vehicle speed control system includes an RFID equipped vehicle having a computer system for controlling operating functions of the vehicle, a transmitting and receiving station positioned adjacent a speed control zone, capability for sending a speed control command from the transmitting and receiving station to the vehicle, cooperative components associated with the vehicle for receiving the speed control command from the transmitting and receiving station, and various elements associated with the vehicle for adjusting speed of the vehicle in response to the speed control command received from the station. The transmitting and receiving station includes electronic circuitry and related components for determining the speed of the RFID equipped vehicle as the vehicle enters the speed control zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Assignee: RFID Options, LLC
    Inventor: Hap Nguyen
  • Patent number: 7911350
    Abstract: A drunk driving detection system to be incorporated in a vehicle includes a steering wheel, a film, a pair of contact detection electrodes, an alcohol sensor, and a control circuit. The steering wheel is provided with an opening in a portion to be grasped by a driver. The film is liquid-impermeable and air-permeable, and covers the first opening. The contact detection electrodes are provided on the film. The alcohol sensor is provided in a space in communication with the opening. The control circuit is connected to the contact detection electrodes and the alcohol sensor, and measures the resistance between the contact detection electrodes. When the resistance is within a predetermined range, the control circuit determines that the driver is in contact with the film and detects an alcohol drinking condition of the driver based on the output from the alcohol sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2011
    Assignee: Panasonic Corporation
    Inventors: Rihito Shoji, Junichi Yukawa, Fumiyasu Konno, Toshio Ishizaki
  • Publication number: 20110050407
    Abstract: A device and method for measuring the alcohol concentration in a driver's saliva is used in an automobile ignition locking system. The device includes an input testing unit, a processing unit, and an output unit. The input testing unit includes a sampling device, an analyzing unit, and a housing unit. The analyzing device consists a socket for inserting the saliva sample and a contact image sensor for capturing and recording the resulting image. The recorded image is transferred to the processing unit that includes an A/D converter, a digital logic processor, and an ignition system controller. The A/D converter converts the image into digital values, and the digital logic processor processes the data and generates test results. The digital logic processor disables the ignition system controller, which disables the ignition system when the alcohol level is higher than the threshold value. The output unit displays test results and instructions for the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 24, 2008
    Publication date: March 3, 2011
    Inventors: Alexander Schoenfeld, Yaki Nesher
  • Patent number: 7893818
    Abstract: A system and method for communicating vehicular information with remote locations may include communicating data from a wireless interface of a vehicle with a locally positioned wireless device. The wireless device may be configured to enable a user to communicate with other users of wireless devices. Receipt of the internal signal may cause the wireless device to communicate the data to a remote location. The remote location may be a service provider or public safety organization located on a network, such as the public switched telephone network or wireless communications network (e.g., mobile telephone network).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 23, 2007
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Assignee: Embarq Holdings Company, LLC
    Inventors: Clinton J. Smoyer, Shane M. Smith
  • Publication number: 20110037578
    Abstract: An electric circuit for controlling the access and immobilizing a vehicle has a first antenna driver (12) for driving a first antenna (19) for emitting a signal (100) in the event of identification of an ID transmitter (3) for access control of a vehicle. A second antenna driver (24) is provided for driving a second antenna (21) for emitting a signal (104) in the event of identification of an ID transmitter (3) for the immobilizer of the vehicle. In addition, the electric circuit has a receiver device (14) for receiving a signal captured by an antenna (21) for the identification of an ID transmitter (3) for the immobilizer. The first antenna driver (12) and the receiver device (14) are commonly integrated into a semiconductor chip (1).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Publication date: February 17, 2011
    Inventors: Ulrich Emmerling, Bernhard Förstl, Daniel Hostmann, Matthias Huschenbett, Luc Jansseune, Rupert Schuster, Roland Wagner
  • Patent number: 7859413
    Abstract: An RFID equipped vehicle includes a computer system for controlling operating functions of the vehicle, an RFID fob for use by an operator of the vehicle, an RFID emitter for use by a passenger of the vehicle, and logic means associated with the computer system for determining when the RFID fob of the operator is out of range of the vehicle and the passenger RFID emitter is within range of the vehicle so that the computer system may notify the operator that the passenger has remained in the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Assignee: RFID Options, LLC
    Inventor: Hap Nguyen
  • Patent number: 7843318
    Abstract: A control unit having an immobilizer function includes a circuit for transmitting a request signal within a predetermined range. After receiving a reply signal from an electronic key in response to this request signal once and allowing a movable body to move, when a reply signal to the periodically sent request signal is not received, it is determined that the electronic key is out of the range, and it is assumed that the key has been dropped. A monitor section outputs a warning signal and transmits the warning signal to the navigation unit. A navigation unit, in response to the warning signal, stores the location at that time as the positional information on the electronic key. The navigation unit also displays a map showing the location of a key based on positional information on the electronic key. With this system, a lost electronic key may be readily located.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 19, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yusuke Funayose, Takao Yamamoto, Tomohiko Yashiro, Takeshi Konno, Masaki Yamazaki, Sho Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 7825798
    Abstract: A security and tracking system to prevent the unauthorized use or access to machinery having hydraulic components whereby the system has a rerouting device housed in a tamperproof casing. The rerouting device might have a selective re-directional valve that can be remotely activated and monitored using wireless signal technology to direct hydraulic fluid to at least two hydraulic circuits, a control center that communicates via wireless signal technology to the rerouting device, a first hydraulic circuit that has a source of fluid, a fluid pumping means, the rerouting device, and a power take off device (PTO) and a second hydraulic circuit that has the source of fluid, the fluid pumping means, and the rerouting device. In operation the rerouting device selectively routs hydraulic fluid about the hydraulic circuit that includes the PTO, thereby rendering the hydraulic equipment functionally operable until the hydraulic fluid is rerouted to the second hydraulic circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Inventor: Juan G. Torres
  • Publication number: 20100253491
    Abstract: An apparatus, system, and method for controlling functions of a vehicular alarm. The method includes receiving one or more signals including location information, determining a location of the vehicle using the location information, setting one or more functions based on the location information, determining whether an alarm function is activated, and activating the one or more functions according to the setting upon determining that an alarm has been activated. The method may further include using GPS data or signals transmitted from one or more base stations (e.g., from cellular telephone base stations, computer networks, proprietary transmitters, etc.) to determine the position of the apparatus (e.g., installed in the vehicle). The apparatus may also inform a user of regulations relating to an area dependent upon its location.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2010
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Inventor: Victor A. Grossman
  • Patent number: 7800486
    Abstract: A safe driving support apparatus in a vehicle is used in a manner that prevents an over-reliance of a driver on a safety device by an application of a technique. That is, for example, an evaluation of driving operation is lowered when the vehicle has been under control of an avoidance control for avoiding an unsafe situation of the vehicle, and the lowered evaluation of driving operation is recorded on a memory medium as well as being notified for the driver after evaluation is being changed. A provision of the avoidance control may result in a suppression of a vehicular function that contributes to a comfort in the vehicle among functions provided by in-vehicle devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2010
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Toshiyuki Kaneiwa
  • Publication number: 20100231369
    Abstract: An information processing system includes an information processing device arranged in a vehicle, a portable device storing unique information, a specification information recording unit configured to record specification information having a predetermined relationship with the unique information, a first transmission unit configured to transmit a request signal requesting transmission of the unique information, a first reception unit configured to receive the unique information transmitted from the portable device, a position specifying unit configured to compare the received unique information with the specification information and specify whether or not the portable device is inside the vehicle, a detection unit configured to detect a human inside the vehicle, an alarm unit configured to set off an alarm, and an alarm control unit.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 24, 2010
    Publication date: September 16, 2010
    Applicant: OMRON CORPORATION
    Inventor: Taku Oya
  • Publication number: 20100225457
    Abstract: A vehicle operation termination kit for rendering a vehicle inoperable for preventing unauthorized access thereof. The vehicle operation termination kit includes an enclosure, and a digital controller assembled within the enclosure. The digital controller is communicably coupled to a fuel pump and an ignition switch of the vehicle. The digital controller includes a receiver configured to receive an authorization code, and generate a first signal upon non-receipt of the authorization code. Moreover, the digital controller includes a timer communicably coupled to the receiver. The timer is configured to transmit a second signal to the fuel pump after a predetermined time delay from the generation of the first signal. The fuel pump of the vehicle is adapted to terminate operation upon receipt of the second signal, thereby rendering the vehicle inoperable.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2009
    Publication date: September 9, 2010
    Inventor: Adalberto Aguirre
  • Publication number: 20100214084
    Abstract: A vehicle immobilization apparatus may be temporarily secured to a vehicle and may be subsequently activated to disable the vehicle. Upon activation, the apparatus generates an electromagnetic signal to disrupt the vehicle's electronic devices, particularly the engine management control system. The apparatus is mechanically secured to the vehicle by magnets, a suction device or other suitable means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 5, 2007
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventor: Thomas E. Haste, III
  • Patent number: 7782178
    Abstract: In a vehicle anti-theft system, a vehicle-mounted mainframe downloads a sole identification code, serving as a control identification code, and transfers the sole identification code into a part as a part identification code. The vehicle-mounted mainframe determines if the control identification code is obtained when the vehicle is activated. If yes, the vehicle-mounted mainframe sends a request command to the part to obtain the part identification code. The vehicle-mounted mainframe determines if the part identification code meets with the control identification code. If yes, the vehicle-mounted mainframe produces a normal operation signal to enter a normal operational mode and feedbacks the identification code to the customer service center. The customer service center checks with a database for stolen events.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Sin Etke Technology Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kuo-Rong Chen, Chun-Chung Lee, Ming-Wen Yang
  • Patent number: 7777613
    Abstract: A vehicle antitheft system and method detects the starting of a vehicle and starts a first timer. If the first timer times out without the system having detected a first predetermined sequence, the system actuates a vehicle system warning signal and starts a second timer. If the second timer times out without detecting a second predetermined sequence, which may be the same as or different from the first predetermined sequence, the system disables the vehicle. The system may send vehicle location information to a monitoring service or the like. The vehicle remains disabled until the antitheft system is reset.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 9, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Nicholas Duane Fifer, Itzhack Goldberg, Julianne Frances Haugh, Boaz Mizrachi
  • Patent number: 7772966
    Abstract: A vehicle communication and control system is provided that may be more readily installed in a vehicle and that utilizes minimal additional wiring. According to some of the disclosed embodiments, the electrical components of the “brick” of a communication and control system are integrated into a rearview mirror assembly. Preferably, the microwave antenna for the GPS and the cellular telephone antenna are also integrated into the rearview mirror assembly. Various functions and features of the system are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2010
    Assignee: Gentex Corporation
    Inventors: Robert R. Turnbull, Robert C. Knapp, Eric J. Walstra, Alan R. Watson, G. Bruce Poe, John K. Roberts, Wayne J. Rumsey
  • Patent number: 7760076
    Abstract: The present invention generally relates to processes and/or devices that are capable of stopping a vehicle in response to a remote signal. Some embodiments are capable of preserving electrical power to one or more safety-related devices or systems after the engine is shut down. Some devices embodying the present invention can include a receiver, an engine-shutdown means, and a power maintaining means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2010
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Brian Boggess
  • Publication number: 20100176937
    Abstract: The specification and drawing figures describe and show a hardware continuity loop that is installable in a vehicle for preventing vehicle misappropriation. In one embodiment, the hardware continuity loop includes a plurality of cables that is operatively connected across selected components of a mobile computing platform, and a relay for controlling vehicle response to an attempted vehicle misappropriation. In another embodiment, the hardware continuity loop includes as detection circuit located in the mobile application server adapted to process a signal on sensing vehicle misappropriation, a plurality of programmable general purpose modules, and one or more low side drivers, for causing a vehicle response to attempted vehicle misappropriation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Publication date: July 15, 2010
    Applicant: Qualcomm Incorporated
    Inventors: William Von Novak, Michael Joseph Contour
  • Patent number: 7714696
    Abstract: An apparatus is arranged for providing drive-off security in a motor vehicle environment through blocking one or more vehicle engine system sub-functions, such blocking is triggered by detecting an unauthorized system activation. A particular such sub-function facility comprises an on-off control circuit is used to control the functionality of a fuel pump arrangement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2010
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Bernd Rumpf
  • Patent number: 7710244
    Abstract: A remote engine starting system starts an engine when an engine start command signal is transmitted from a remote controller or an ignition key. The system includes an immobilizer ECU, which sets an immobilizer system to prohibit vehicle travel and drives an LED to flash to thereby indicate the vehicle travel prohibition. When the engine is started by the ignition key, the immobilizer system is unset and the LED stops the indication of the vehicle travel prohibition. When the engine is started by the remote controller, the immobilizer system is unset but the LED continues to flash to indicate the vehicle travel prohibition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Assignee: DENSO Corporation
    Inventor: Toshio Shimomura
  • Patent number: 7705710
    Abstract: A method for start and access verification of a motor vehicle by means of a mobile identification transmitter (3) with an evaluation unit arranged in the identification transmitter (3). At least two antennas (1, 2) arranged in different places on the vehicle in any order: each emit time independently an electromagnetic signal which is measured by a measuring device in the identification transmitter (3), and each simultaneously emit an electromagnetic signal which is measured by the measuring device in the identification transmitter (3). Thus, the security of start and access systems of motor vehicles is increased.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Continental Automotive GmbH
    Inventor: Stefan Hermann
  • Patent number: 7705713
    Abstract: A control unit having a microprocessor and at least one electronic memory for storing a program-controlled sequence control for a motor vehicle and a first electronic interface for transmitting the program code of the sequence control from an external data transmission device into the memory and also having a second electronic interface are provided. To prevent manipulation of the contents of the memory, the first electronic interface is irreversibly deactivated after its initial use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Stefan Krimmer, Rainer Stahl