Including Immobilization Patents (Class 340/426.11)
  • Publication number: 20070222563
    Abstract: A vehicle security control system receives from a separated communication device a demand signal to prohibit or permit engine operation via an immobilizer. The vehicle control device includes a display for displaying information on the engine operation, a communication unit for receiving the demand signal from the separated communication device and a remote security ECU for providing a control signal according to the demand signal, an immobilizer ECU for setting or unsetting the immobilizer according to the control signal. The immobilizer ECU prohibits the display from displaying the information on the engine operation when the immobilizer ECU unsets the immobilizer even when the separated communication device provides the demand signal to prohibit engine operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 7, 2007
    Publication date: September 27, 2007
    Applicant: Denso Corporation
    Inventor: Toshio Shimomura
  • Patent number: 7274979
    Abstract: To prevent a vehicle from being stolen or improperly utilized when the registered user is not in the vicinity of the vehicle under the condition that its engine is in an idling state, an anti-theft apparatus according to the present invention comprises an immobilizer provided in the vehicle, and designed to control a gear shifter not to allow the gear shifter to be shifted from a neutral state or a parking state when the person is identified as the unregistered user under the condition that the vehicle is in the stopped state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2007
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Norihiro Fujioka
  • Patent number: 7272469
    Abstract: The invention relates to an improved immobilizer system for automotive vehicles that enables a running vehicle to be effectively immobilized while an authorized driver is absent from the vehicle. The immobilizer may be operated in a number of modes that provide effective protection to a vehicle from theft in a variety of operative situations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2007
    Assignee: Magtec Products Inc.
    Inventors: Ed E. Kalau, Herbert Peyerl
  • Patent number: 7245204
    Abstract: A system and method is described for alerting authorities during a vehicle carjacking or carnapping. The method includes a first step of providing a vehicular radiotelephone communication system with speech recognition and a controller operable to monitor at least one vehicular system. A next step includes defining at least one predetermined sequence of operation of the at least one vehicular system for triggering a silent alert. The sequence can include spoken words or vehicle control operation. A next step includes monitoring the at least one vehicular system for the defined at least one predetermined sequence, such as a hidden switch activation for example. A next step includes activating a silent alert upon detection of the at least one predetermined sequence.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2007
    Assignee: Temic Automotive of North America, Inc.
    Inventors: Abigail Z. Ramos, Cy M. Fieldman, Maria L. Mazur, Vijay S. Raisinghani
  • Patent number: 7242281
    Abstract: A speed control system employing a remote control system in which a vehicle is provided with a vehicle engine disabling/brake activating device capable of receiving a signal to immediately stop the vehicle when the remote control system has detected the presence of a pedestrian at a location, like a crosswalk, and the presence of the approaching vehicle. When a detector detects the presence of a pedestrian at a location, like a crosswalk, the remote control system is placed on stand-by status so that when the remote control system further receives a signal of the presence of an approaching vehicle, either due to a vehicle driving over a road safety bar or the vehicle being detected by an infrared detector, the remote control system transmits a signal to a vehicle engine disabling/brake activating device to disable the vehicle by either shutting down its vehicle engine and/or activating its brake system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Inventor: Mel Francis P. Quintos
  • Patent number: 7242283
    Abstract: An anti-theft automobile steering wheel lock with an alarm includes an alarm and a lock body. The alarm set fixed on the lock body consists of a circuit board, a buzzer and a battery base. The circuit board possesses a microphone sensor, a vibrating sensor and a warning light. The warning light and the battery base are connected with the circuit board. In using, wrap a fitting member of the lock body around a part of the steering wheel of an automobile and power the alarm set in a detecting state. If a door of an automobile is opened by a thief, air current outside the automobile will flow into the interior of the automobile, inducing the microphone sensor to make the buzzer sound out for warning. If the body of an automobile is struck by a thief, the vibrating sensor will be induced to make the buzzer sound out.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2007
    Inventor: Hui-Hua Hsieh
  • Patent number: 7224261
    Abstract: When transmitting an instruction for activating an immobilizer function to a vehicle, a base station also transmits a given password for releasing the immobilizer function. When receiving the instruction and the given password, an immobilizer ECU outputs an instruction for prohibiting an engine from starting. Prohibition of engine start is released only when the given password is inputted on a display. Therefore, a regular user alone, who knows the given password, can start the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Assignee: DENSO Corporation
    Inventor: Toshio Shimomura
  • Patent number: 7222006
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for determining the duration a motor vehicle engine may operate while operator authorization is verified in response to an ignition request. In one embodiment the method includes the steps of decrementing a pre-authorization timer from a first predetermined time limit and a maximum authorization timer from a second predetermined time limit in response to the ignition request. Also upon receipt of the ignition request an authorization process is initiated. Decrementing of the pre-authorization timer is halted in response to active operation of the starter motor of the motor vehicle, and operation of the motor vehicle is inhibited if either the pre-authorization timer or the maximum authorization timer decrements to zero before completion of the authorization operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2007
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: David T. Proefke, Thomas M. Forest, Thomas W. Pfeffer
  • Patent number: 7215237
    Abstract: In the global protection of objects structured with electronic components, security devices, e.g., in a vehicle, become active by at least one component, and/or information within at least one component that is essential for operation of the vehicle is deactivated irreversibly and or erased, so that even a disassembly or bridging of the component concerned can achieve no effect, since acquisition of a functional replacement part is not available. The components can, for example, be placed in the motor electronics, the steering column lock, the door lock, and/or the key, and through miniaturization of the receiver, any electronic device can be protected including, among other things, radio telephones, (Euro-)checkcards and cash cards, credit cards, telephone cards, keys to electronic systems, mobile electronic devices, such as cassette recorder, CD players, clocks, computers, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2007
    Inventors: Ernst Messerschmid, Felix Huber, Wolfgang Schäfer
  • Patent number: 7176787
    Abstract: Means for disabling an automobile by causing an on-board computer to disable the ignition system thereof. A radio receiver provides a signal to the on-board computer through an existing port (e.g. diagnostic port or ignition interface port). The on-board computer disables ignition function through supplanted firmware that recognizes the status of the signal received from the radio receiver. Removal of the radio receiver also disables the ignition system. The entire system is installed during government required inspections (e.g. a smog check).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2007
    Inventors: Humberto Herrera, Jack I. J'maev
  • Patent number: 7173517
    Abstract: When transmitting an instruction for activating an immobilizer function to a subject vehicle, a base station also transmits a given ID code for releasing the immobilizer function. An immobilizer ECU that receives the instruction and the given ID code, prohibits an engine from being started by other than a key having the given ID code. Therefore, a regular user alone, who owns a key having the given ID code, can start the engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2007
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Akihiro Kondo, Ifushi Shimonomoto, Toshio Shimomura
  • Patent number: 7170399
    Abstract: A method of making a device utilizes the step of winding a coil; disposing the coil in a predetermined position on a component which forms part of the device; connecting the ends of the coil to first and second pins by winding the ends of the coil onto the pins; and disposing the first and second pins in electrical connection with first and second connection structures formed on a PCB (printed circuit board) which is disposed in/on the component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 30, 2007
    Assignee: Omron Automotive Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Dawn Melman, John Gaughan
  • Patent number: 7167084
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for rendering electronic keys left behind in a vehicle temporarily inactive. The apparatus comprises a vehicle security control module in wireless communication with the electronic keys, and having operatively coupled together a receiver, a processor, non-volatile memory and a short-range transmitter. When the module receives a valid lock command from any source it sends a short-range interrogation signal to keys within the vehicle. Left-behind keys respond and send their unique ID(s) to the module's receiver. The processor obtains the unique ID(s) from the receiver and sets one or more inhibit flags in memory or equivalent to identify those keys as left-behind keys. The processor thereafter ignores commands from such left-behind keys, thereby rendering them temporarily inoperative until a valid unlock command is received form another source, whereupon the processor clears the inhibit flags from memory and restores the left-behind keys to active status.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: January 23, 2007
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: David T. Proefke, Thomas E. Utter
  • Patent number: 7161262
    Abstract: A start control apparatus has a steering lock mechanism, which includes a lock pin and a lock control unit. The lock pin is selectively engaged and disengaged from the steering shaft. The lock control unit controls the lock pin. The start control apparatus further includes a portable communication device, a verification control unit, which communicates with the portable communication device, a power source control unit, which control power supply, an engine control unit, which controls the engine, a lock state detecting switch, which detects an engaged state and a disengaged state of the lock pin. The lock control unit and the power source control unit monitor detection signals from the lock state detecting switch. The engine is permitted to be started on condition that the control units acknowledge that the lock bar is in the disengaged state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventors: Toshihiro Nagae, Masaki Yoshino, Hisashi Kato, Toru Maeda, Masaki Hayashi, Tomoyuki Funayama, Toshio Asahi, Tomoo Kakegawa, Toshinori Aoki
  • Patent number: 7161464
    Abstract: Herein disclosed is a vehicle security system for protecting a vehicle against use by an unauthorized person, comprising: a base station, located away from the vehicle, for transmitting a control signal; and a vehicle unlocking apparatus, provided in the vehicle. The vehicle unlocking apparatus includes: vehicle communication means for receiving the control signal from the base station; and a vehicle component whose operation is necessary to drive the vehicle. The vehicle component is operable to selectively assume two operation states including a vehicle drive state in which the vehicle component allows the vehicle to be used and a vehicle protection state in which the vehicle component protect the vehicle from being used in response to the control signal received by the vehicle communication means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Masahiro Yuhara
  • Patent number: 7161471
    Abstract: A system for a vehicle for receiving and transmitting wireless transmitted radio data that is emitted from outside a vehicle, the system having an antenna for receiving the radio data, a first module disposed within the vehicle, a second module and a transmission line for transmitting the radio data substantially within the vehicle, the antenna of the system being connected to a receiver disposed within the second module such that the radio data is transmittable from the second module to the first module through the transmission line, and the antenna being formed by an electrical line that also forms the ground connection of the second module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2007
    Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Martin Schulz, Peter Hornschuh
  • Patent number: 7141890
    Abstract: An automobile anti-theft device disrupting normal operation of an automobile. To attain this, incorporated into an automobile is a module configured to disrupt the normal firing of the automobile's spark plugs upon actuation of a user-controlled controller. In an embodiment, the module electrically couples the automobile's coil to the automobile's distributor cap through a controller-controlled switch. In an embodiment, the module relays instruction sets to an engine control unit, upon execution of the instruction set the engine control unit disrupts spark plug firing. A method for preventing automobile theft, which incorporates into an ignition system a user-controlled module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Inventors: Jose A. Gallardo, Graciela A. Gallardo
  • Patent number: 7135788
    Abstract: A plug-in replacement relay for automotive use incorporating a security system (43) to control the actuation of the relay is disclosed. The plug-in replacement relay derives its power supply from bridge rectifier(s) (33, 37) having their inputs connected across the coil socket connector (pins 85, 86) and/or the switching contacts (11) (pins 30, 87), allowing polarity free connection. An inhibitor circuit (31) ensures that the contacts (11) are actuated only when intended.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: Dynamco Pty Ltd.
    Inventors: Ivor Metlitzky, Richard Thomas Frizell
  • Patent number: 7132762
    Abstract: A plug-in replacement relay for automotive use incorporating a security system (43) to control the actuation of the relay is disclosed. The plug-in replacement relay derives its power supply from bridge rectifier(s) (33, 37) having their inputs connected across the coil socket connector (pins 85, 86) and/or the switching contacts (11) (pins 30, 87), allowing polarity free connection. An inhibitor circuit (31) ensures that the contacts (11) are actuated only when intended.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2006
    Assignee: Dynamco Pty Ltd
    Inventors: Ivor Metlitzky, Richard Thomas Frizell
  • Patent number: 7116214
    Abstract: A circuit board assembly for use in a vehicle immobilizer system in accordance with the present invention includes a printed circuit board for mounting in an interior portion of the vehicle and having an aperture formed therethrough. The aperture is defined by an interior wall of the printed circuit board. An antenna trace is printed on the circuit board proximate to the interior wall defining the aperture. An ignition switch assembly extends through the aperture of the circuit board. The ignition switch is operable to receive a key having a transponder disposed thereon, and the antenna trace is operable to alternately transmit a signal to and receive a signal from the transponder when the key is positioned in the ignition switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2006
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Riad Ghabra, David A. Michalski, Helena Thornton
  • Patent number: 7091834
    Abstract: An antitheft device is provided, whereby a person who attempts to commit a theft of a vehicle can be captured, having an improved crime prevention performance to thefts of vehicles, electrical equipment mounted on vehicles, money and articles left inside vehicles and the like. The antitheft device includes an expansible body system to expand an expansible body for blocking the motion of an intruder in a prescribed space inside a vehicle, which emits a substance to be a base of foaming polystyrene inside the vehicle and applies steam to the substance so that the foaming polystyrene blocks the motion of an intruder, when the presence of the intruder inside the vehicle is detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Fujitsu Ten Limited
    Inventor: Shinichi Tanaka
  • Patent number: 7091821
    Abstract: An anti-theft system comprises a digital code in a key ring. The code is transmitted to a client box installed in a car. The box analyses the code and, in the case of theft, transmits a distress signal to a surveillance station. The surveillance station is equipped with a receiver and a display to display information concerning the stolen vehicle. A person at the surveillance station can stop the stolen vehicle or can use a switch on the surveillance station unit that sends a signal to a receiver in the client box and thus turns off the fuel pump of the car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 15, 2006
    Assignee: Kolombo Technologies LTEE
    Inventors: Hugo Lessard, Eric Gros-Louis
  • Patent number: 7088219
    Abstract: A method, apparatus, and computer program are provided for remotely controlling the ignition of a vehicle. A variety of conditions can be placed on the vehicle for operation, such as time or geography, from a variety of remote wireless technologies. The ignition control system is also capable of effectively learning safe zones under which the vehicle can operate. Also, the ignition control system can cease operations upon request by an owner or law enforcement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Christopher James Dawson, Craig William Fellenstein, Rick Allen Hamilton, Edward Noel Luddy, II
  • Patent number: 7061137
    Abstract: A vehicle security system may disrupt communications on a vehicle data communications bus, such as to prevent starting of the vehicle engine. The vehicle security system may include at least one vehicle security sensor, a vehicle data communications bus disrupter for disrupting communications on the vehicle data communications bus, and a security controller for selectively operating the vehicle data communications bus disrupter. The disrupter may be operated based upon the at least one vehicle security sensor to thereby disable the vehicle engine. The disrupter may alternately be operated based on a signal from a monitoring station that receives position information from the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2002
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2006
    Assignee: Omega Patents, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Flick
  • Patent number: 7053758
    Abstract: The present invention was achieved in order to provide an antitheft device, which can prevent unauthorized intrusion into a car even if an engine is started by remote control, to be mounted on a vehicle having a remote engine starting system which starts the engine based on a command from a remote control transmitter, comprising a controller to control the state of door windows so as to prohibit at least the opening out of the opening and closing of the door windows when the engine is started by the remote engine starting system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 30, 2006
    Assignee: Fujitsu Ten Limited
    Inventors: Shinichi Tanaka, Nobuhito Yamazaki
  • Patent number: 7049709
    Abstract: A system for remotely disabling the drive train of a vehicle including an identifier unit which includes a first processor, a scanner connected to the first processor for transmitting a scanning signal and receiving an identification code signal from the vehicle, and a disabling transmitter connected to the first processor for generation of a disabling signal. The system further includes a disabling apparatus connected to a drive train of the vehicle. The disabling apparatus includes an identification tag for receiving the scanning signal and transmitting the identification code signal in response to receipt of the scanning signal, a valve connected to the drive train, and a second processor for receiving the disabling signal and controlling the valve to move the drive train into a neutral gear upon receipt of the disabling signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 23, 2006
    Inventor: Clayton Boggs
  • Patent number: 7034654
    Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for insuring that a motor vehicle is being operated by an authorized operator. The apparatus includes an electronic control unit (ECU), an engine immobilizer unit, and a shared encryption key. The ECU generates a challenge by combining the output of a pseudo-random number generator and the output of a somewhat random number generator and cycling the combined number through a linear feedback shift register. The ECU sends the challenge to the immobilizer unit where it is encrypted with the shared key and sent back to the ECU as a response. The ECU uses the same key to encrypt the challenge and compares the encrypted challenge to the response. If the response matches the encrypted challenge, engine operation is enabled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2006
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: Thomas M. Forest, David T. Proefke, Axel Nix, Marcelleaus P. Baines
  • Patent number: 7026918
    Abstract: A motor vehicle verification and control system providing a remote activator enabling locating, monitoring and disabling of an equipped vehicle, a receiver for analog, digital, broadband, satellite (i.e. GPS), green light and/or infrared signal technologies, a remote infrared target for disabling an equipped vehicle, an interactive license plate coupled with the remote infrared target for disabling means, and a license scanner that enables law enforcement to regulate the speed, operation and traveling distance of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventor: David Douglas Briick
  • Patent number: 7027919
    Abstract: A tracking system and method for locating a vehicle and/or asset. The system includes an inertial navigation device with inertial navigation sensors mounted on the vehicle and/or asset for generating a position vector used to determine an absolute vehicle/asset location. The system also includes a radio transmitter connected to the navigation device for transmitting the position vector; and a central monitoring station for receiving the position vector transmitted by the radio transmitter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2006
    Inventors: Daniel Bernesi, Francesco Losito
  • Patent number: 7015792
    Abstract: An anti-theft system comprises a digital code in a key ring. The code is transmitted to a client box installed in a car. The box analyses the code and, in the case of theft, transmits a distress signal to a police car. The police car is equipped with a receiver and a display to display information concerning the stolen vehicle. The police officer can stop the stolen vehicle or can use a switch on the police car unit that sends a signal to a receiver in the client box and thus turns off the fuel pump of the car.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 21, 2006
    Assignee: Technologie Kolombo Inc.
    Inventors: Hugo Lessard, Éric Gros-Louis
  • Patent number: 7002465
    Abstract: A security system of a construction machine of the present invention has a construction machine, a base station and a communication device. The construction machine comprises a data sending and receiving portion for sending first information, a storage portion for storing received information, and a control portion for controlling an operation of the construction machine. The base station receives the first information from the data sending and receiving portion of the construction machine and sends second information to the construction machine and manages the construction machine. It is configured so that the communication device is connected to the base station through a communication network and can send third information to the construction machine through the base station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 17, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2006
    Assignee: Hitachi Construction Machinery
    Inventors: Hideki Komatsu, Hiroyuki Adachi, Kazuhiro Shibamori, Koichi Shibata, Itsuo Kondo, Toshinori Kimura, Genroku Sugiyama, Toichi Hirata, Tadatoshi Shimamura, Yuji Nagashima, Hiroshi Watanabe
  • Patent number: 6982631
    Abstract: A vehicle immobilizer disables a vehicle's system after receiving from a vehicle security system two immobilizer control signals in predetermined states. The vehicle's system is a necessary system for the vehicle to run, for example, an ignition system or an engine computer, so that the vehicle is immobilized when the necessary system is disabled. The immobilizer includes switching and self-biasing circuits that bypass the security system. Bypassing the security system reduces the likelihood of immobilizing a running vehicle because of a security system malfunction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 3, 2006
    Assignee: Directed Electronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Jonathan T. Kemper
  • Patent number: 6980124
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a security, telemetry and control system which utilizes wireless communication between a control unit and smart relay(s) within the vehicle and also utilizes wireless communication between the vehicle and a remote base station to monitor and protect a vehicle or piece of equipment against unauthorized users and thieves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Autosafe International, Inc.
    Inventors: Qin Kong, Frank Stevens
  • Patent number: 6977580
    Abstract: An apparatus, system and method of identifying a vehicle that may present safety threats to security areas are provided. When a vehicle is approaching a security zone, a request for identification (ID) is issued to the vehicle's on-board computer system (OBCS). Upon receiving the ID, a comparison is made between the ID of the vehicle and a list of suspect vehicle IDs. It there is a match, the vehicle is considered to be suspect and the OBCS is instructed to take control over the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2005
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Dwip N. Banerjee, Kumar Ravi, Eduardo N. Spring
  • Patent number: 6967581
    Abstract: A breath alcohol detection system that prevents operation of a vehicle when an operator's breath alcohol concentration is above a predetermined threshold limit or when the operator's identity is not verified. The device incorporates a breath alcohol detection device that employs an electrochemical fuel cell and an optical skin sensor that positively identifies the operator. The skin sensor is designed to sense skin on the operator's face or in the operator's mouth. Before a vehicle's starter is enabled, the operator must pass a breath alcohol test and the operator must be positively identified. If the breath alcohol test results indicate a breath alcohol concentration above a predetermined threshold, or the operator is not positively identified, the starter is disabled, thus preventing the vehicle from being operated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2005
    Inventor: Harry Karsten
  • Patent number: 6956467
    Abstract: A car alarm is providing including an annunciator for providing an alarm signal from a car alarm system and n automatic dialer that provides automatic dialing capabilities to a wireless phone or pager upon initiation of said annunciator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2003
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Inventor: Adelino Mercado, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6956473
    Abstract: An alarm system having the capability to self-adjust or self-calibrate itself is disclosed. The system includes an alarm controller and at least one sensor that generates a signal that corresponds to the magnitude of a detected event. The signal evaluator is part of the alarm controller and receives the magnitude signal from the sensor. The signal evaluator compares the magnitude signal to a user-defined or preset alarm sensor sensitivity threshold and generates an alarm signal if the magnitude signal exceeds the alarm signal sensitivity threshold. If repeated alarm signals are generated, an alarm threshold adjuster will adjust the sensor sensitivity threshold to a point where repeated magnitude signals will be ignored. The system will reset itself to the original user-defined or preset sensor sensitivity threshold levels after a predetermined time of no alarm signal generation. The alarm signals generated will activate an alarm annunciator, which generates an alarm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: JBS Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Scott T. Hanood
  • Patent number: 6956466
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for a vehicle with tyre wheels includes an immobilization device, at least one detection control unit, and at least one sensor. The immobilization device activates an anti-theft procedure. The at least one detection control unit is connected to the immobilization device and verifies an alarm condition. The at least one sensor is associated with one or more of the tyre wheels, communicates with the at least one detection control unit, detects movement of one or more of the tyre wheels, and detects inflation pressure of one or more of the tyre wheels. A method for activating an anti-theft device for a vehicle with tyre wheels includes detecting an alarm condition from at least one of the tyre wheels, receiving the detected condition, and activating an anti-theft procedure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 18, 2005
    Assignee: Pirelli Pneumatic S.p.A.
    Inventors: Renato Caretta, Flavio Fontana, Vittorio Giaroli
  • Patent number: 6940397
    Abstract: An apparatus for the recording of images from an interior of a vehicle upon detection of an intrusion allows for the arming of the vehicle when it is not in use. A locking of the vehicle's doors, a shutting off of the engine, or other methods are used to detect when the system is to be armed. The system does not record images when it is armed. It must be armed and then an intrusion must occur. Intrusion is detected by a dome light illuminating, a door lock being opened from the inside, a motion sensor detecting a presence or by other methods. When intrusion occurs with an armed system, recording of the images in the vehicle discreetly occurs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Inventor: Benjamin E Le Mire
  • Patent number: 6900723
    Abstract: An object is to provide an anti-theft system for vehicles which is easy to operate and is capable of returning a stolen vehicle to its owner. A stolen vehicle is remote-controlled so as to make it impossible to restart an engine in response to a vehicle-theft report signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2005
    Assignee: Pioneer Corporation
    Inventors: Tadamasa Yamanaka, Masahiro Odashima, Koji Sakuma
  • Patent number: 6894599
    Abstract: A method is provided for releasing a secret number of a theft prevention function in jet propulsion boat, which is equipped with the theft prevention function. The theft preventing function is capable of turning a power source ON by an occupant inputting the secret number. In the method, at least one of a plurality of harness connected to the theft prevention function is removed to input, a predetermined number (number for release), whereby the secret number is rendered capable of being released. Since the secret number is rendered capable of being released by removing at least one of a plurality of harnesses connected to the theft prevention function, and by inputting a predetermined number, it is possible to make forgetting the secret number and maintenance of the theft prevention function compatible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2005
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yusuke Funayose, Toru Hasegawa, Tomohiko Yashiro
  • Patent number: 6885290
    Abstract: Two embodiments of very simple by highly effective antitheft devices for use in small vehicles such as motor scooters, personal watercraft or other forms of watercraft. Each system employs a removable component which also functions as a display and which disables the operation of the prime mover of the vehicle. The removed component can be carried by the user and reinserted when he desires to again operate the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2005
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Moric
    Inventor: Mitsuru Tsuji
  • Patent number: 6879241
    Abstract: A vehicle ready for a card key and a radio communication system for a vehicle which utilizes a card key wherein transmission and reception functions are incorporated in a card key to be loaded onto a vehicle, thereby allowing communication between vehicles. A card key loaded on a two-wheeled vehicle communicates with a first card key loaded in a first card key receiving slot of a four-wheeled vehicle. Further, a microphone, a speaker and a transmitter-receiver are provided on a helmet for a driver, and the card key communicates also with the transmitter-receiver on the helmet. Similarly, a card key loaded on a second two-wheeled vehicle communicates with a second card key loaded in second card key receiving slot of the four-wheeled vehicle and the transmitter-receiver of the helmet worn by the driver of the second two-wheeled vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tomokazu Sakamoto, Kenji Tamaki, Yoshiyuki Horii, Satoshi Kazama, Hidetoshi Kabayama, Dai Higashida
  • Patent number: 6873246
    Abstract: The vehicle disabling system includes a vehicle control unit for positioning in a vehicle with a transceiver for transmitting and receiving signals to receive an inquiry signal and transmit an identification code upon the receipt of the inquiry signal. A central database station includes memory for storing a plurality of identification codes of vehicle control units. An authorization code is associated each identification code. A mobile law enforcement unit is positionable in a law enforcement vehicle, and includes a transceiver for transmitting and receiving signals to transmit the inquiry signal to a vehicle control unit. The law enforcement unit receives an identification code from the vehicle control unit and transmits the identification code to central database station. The law enforcement unit transmits the stop signal with the authorization code to the vehicle control unit upon receiving the authorization code from the central database station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2005
    Inventors: Joseph P. Ligoci, Sr., Elias J. Goletsas
  • Patent number: 6870467
    Abstract: A vehicle disablement device detects whether it has been tampered with. If the vehicle disablement device determines that it has been tampered with, the vehicle disablement device sends a signal to a tamper disabler. The tamper disabler is then able to disable the vehicle in the same manner in which the vehicle disablement device disables the vehicle. Accordingly, the vehicle may be disabled even when the vehicle disablement device is tampered with.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 22, 2005
    Assignee: Payment Protection Systems, Inc.
    Inventor: Michael P. Simon
  • Patent number: 6861947
    Abstract: Anti-theft security devices for a motor vehicle, comprise portable transmitting elements, of a receiving module on board the vehicle and of elements controlling a system for interrupting at least one circuit required for operating the vehicle (ignition circuit engine, fuel intake circuit or other . . . ) when the distance between the transmitting elements and the receiving elements exceeds a certain value. The method for managing the operation of such a device consists, when resetting the affected circuit(s), following an interruption relative to accidental signal loss, in performing this resetting only very gradually.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2005
    Assignee: Sevic System AG
    Inventor: Pascal Albert
  • Patent number: 6853295
    Abstract: In a vehicular control unit, a main power supply voltage detecting section to detect a voltage value of a main power supply is provided and, an abnormality determining section determines an abnormality occurs in the main power supply voltage detecting section when the main power supply voltage detecting section negatively detects the voltage value of the main power supply and a power supply stop command output section outputs a command to stop the supply of the continuous power supply to the power supply control circuit without an execution of a shut-off process when the abnormality determining section determines that the abnormality occurs in the main power supply voltage detecting section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2005
    Assignee: JATCO Ltd
    Inventors: Kiminobu Takebe, Masatoshi Akanuma, Satoshi Takizawa
  • Patent number: 6833784
    Abstract: An electric vehicle (1) including a rechargeable secondary battery (30), an electric motor (9) for driving a running section such as wheels and the like and a controller (5) for conducting control to drive the electric motor by electric power from the secondary battery (30) is provided with a nonvolatile memory (6) for storing a password, a display and operation unit (7) for inputting a password, means (the controller (5) may also serve) for bringing the vehicle into a state capable of being driven only when the password inputted through the display and operation unit (7) matches the password stored in the memory (6).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2004
    Assignee: Tokyo R & D Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Ishii, Takashi Aoki, Nobuhito Ohnuma
  • Publication number: 20040239488
    Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for disabling a mobile vehicle. A data signal for disabling the vehicle is received at an in-vehicle telematics unit, which monitors for a trigger event in response to the receipt of the data signal. A disable command is sent from the telematics unit to a vehicle control module when the trigger event is detected. A computer usable medium with suitable computer program code is employed to disable a mobile vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 2, 2003
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Applicant: General Motors Corporation
    Inventors: William A. Douglass, Christopher L. Oesterling
  • Patent number: 6822558
    Abstract: An arrangement for theft protection of a motor vehicle accessory, in particular of a car radio, having a codable theft protection device. An enclosing device that can be activated or deactivated via an immobilizer of a control system of a drive mechanism of a motor vehicle is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Guenter Haderer