Remote Control Patents (Class 340/426.13)
  • Patent number: 7068151
    Abstract: A remote watch (FIG. 7) design for a car security system, comprising of a display screen and base 706 with keypad 704. A user of the remote watch will not only be able to keep track of the time but also will be able to arm/lock, disarm/unlock and remotely start their vehicle by pushing specific buttons on the watch. It is common for people to lose or misplace their keys along with the keyless remote that is attached to the keys. Since the watch is placed on the users wrist, the user never has to worry about damage due to dropping it on a hard surface, in liquids (ex. water), or even losing their keyless remote as you would by having a keyless remote attached to keys or a key chain. If the user ever loses their keys, the remote watch will now allow the user to still have access to their vehicle without their keys, thus giving the user the freedom to store an extra set of keys in their vehicle in case they lose the original ones.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2006
    Inventors: Samuel K. Giles, Christopher E. Smith
  • Patent number: 7042342
    Abstract: A portable remote keyless entry fob has a plurality of control elements disposed on the fob for manual activation by a user. A display is provided for displaying information to the user. An RKE transmitter wirelessly transmits RKE messages from the fob to a vehicle-mounted receiver. A wideband receiver receives RF signals broadcast by wireless devices nearby the fob and generates a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) signal in proportion to the RF signals. A controller is coupled to the plurality of control elements, the display, the RKE transmitter, and the wideband receiver wherein the controller has an RKE mode for providing a plurality of remote entry command functions. The controller has a detector mode for detecting presence of a wireless device using a comparison responsive to predetermined signal patterns and the RSSI signal. The controller generates an indication on the display when the wireless device is detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 9, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Yi Luo, Qingfeng Tang
  • Patent number: 7042343
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for a motorcycle includes an anti-theft locking mechanism, a remote control, a receiver that receives a locking release signal transmitted from the remote control, a controller that releases locking by the locking mechanism according to the locking release signal, and a locking release mechanism that unlocks the locking mechanism by manual operation of a dedicated key. The locking release mechanism is normally covered with a cover member of the motorcycle such that it is not easily detected by unauthorized persons.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Takeshi Konno, Tadashi Onozuka
  • Patent number: 7042341
    Abstract: A battery operated controller for a door operator includes a keypad backlit by a light emitting diode operably connected to a microcontroller which also controls operation of the controller. The microcontroller periodically measures ambient light as sensed by the light emitting diode and when a voltage level related to a predetermined light intensity decreases below a predetermined level the light emitting diode is energized to provide backlighting for the controller keypad. The intensity of backlighting may be varied in accordance with the amount of ambient light illuminating the keypad and above a certain intensity of ambient light the light emitting diode is de-energized to conserve battery power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2006
    Assignee: Overhead Door Corporation
    Inventor: Michael T. McMahon
  • Patent number: 7031835
    Abstract: A vehicle tracking unit is preferably for a vehicle of a type including an engine starter interrupt device. The vehicle tracking unit preferably includes a vehicle position determining device, a wireless communications device, and a controller. The controller may switch between an armed mode and a disarmed mode based upon operation of the engine starter interrupt device. The controller when in the armed mode may cooperate with the wireless communications device to send an alert message to the monitoring station and including vehicle position information, for example. The controller is also for selectively operating the engine starter interrupt device. The controller may include a combination input and output terminal for connection to the engine starter interrupt device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2006
    Assignee: Omega Patents, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Flick
  • Patent number: 7023329
    Abstract: An air pressure induction type vehicle anti-thief device includes an on-vehicle main unit installed in a motor vehicle adapted to detect variation of air pressure in the inside chamber of the motor vehicle through an air pressure sensor and to drive an alarm to output an alarm signal when the amount of variation of transient variation of air pressure surpassed a predetermined safety air pressure value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Tung Thih Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Shin-Chung Chen
  • Patent number: 7019625
    Abstract: Unit-specific identification data (IDA, IDB) of a transmission electronic control unit (5) and an engine electronic control unit (4) are stored in memories (5A, 4A), and engine start data (DES) required for starting an engine (2) are stored in the memory (4A) of the transmission electronic control unit (5). At the time of engine starting, the validity of the combination of the transmission electronic control unit (5) and the engine electronic control unit (4) is checked in the transmission electronic control unit (5) based on the identification data (IDA, IDB), and the engine start data (DES) are sent from the transmission electronic control unit (5) to the engine electronic control unit (4) in response to a request from the engine electronic control unit (4) only when validity is confirmed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2006
    Assignee: Bosch Automotive Systems Corporation
    Inventor: Ryoichi Harada
  • Patent number: 7010402
    Abstract: A vehicle control system is for a vehicle including a vehicle data communication bus extending throughout the vehicle and may include a plurality of user control devices, and a first controller at the vehicle for generating a data bus code on the bus from among a series of data bus codes based upon a respective user control device. Each data bus code of the series may have a common function portion and an identity portion that is different for each respective user control device. Moreover, a second multi-vehicle controller at the vehicle may compare a data bus code on the bus with a vehicle code learning index to determine the vehicle from a plurality of different vehicles. The index may include possible data bus codes each including a respective common function portion for each different vehicle with a don't care condition specified for each identity portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2006
    Assignee: Omega Patents, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Flick
  • Patent number: 7005972
    Abstract: When the connection of a cable to a control interface is confirmed, and thereafter a write command is received, a data write process is executed to renew contents of a conversion table stored in a memory based on link data attached to the write command. Furthermore, when a read command is received, a data read process is executed to retrieve the contents of the conversion table stored in the memory and thereafter to transmit the retrieved data to an external device through the control interface. Then, when disconnection of the cable is detected, the processes, each of which is executed according to the corresponding command transmitted from the external device, are bypassed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2006
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventor: Munenori Matsumoto
  • 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: 6998967
    Abstract: This method is intended for a vehicle (2) equipped with a hands-free access system comprising a badge (4) and means of communication by electromagnetic signals between the vehicle (2) and the badge (4) making it possible to locate the badge (4) with respect to the vehicle. The hands-free access system makes it possible to operate a locking of the doors when the last door of the vehicle (2) is closed and when the badge (4) exits a first zone (Z1) delimited around the vehicle. A second zone (Z2), more extensive than the first zone (Z1), is delimited around the vehicle. A relocking is commanded when, after a locking of the doors commanded by the hands-free system, a door is opened without action of the hands-free system and then closed again, uniquely insofar as a badge (4) is located within the second zone (Z2).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2006
    Assignee: Siemens VDO Automotive
    Inventors: Alain Brillon, Jean-Michel Farinier
  • Patent number: 6980094
    Abstract: A system for remotely controlling the doors of an automotive vehicle with a reduced number of transmitters to be held and a reduced number of buttons of the transmitters is disclosed. The transmitter has a lock button and an unlock button. Upon depression of the lock button or the unlock button, a corresponding demand signal is transmitted repeatedly. The demand signal includes an ID code, a button code and a time code. The button code indicates the identification of the lock button or the unlock button. The time code indicates whether a button has been kept depressed for at least a predetermined length of time or the number of times the button is depressed. The receiver controls the door lock/unlock operation and the door open/close operation based on the button code and the time code. The time code can be replaced with a number-of-times code indicating the number of times a button is depressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Fujitsu Ten Limited
    Inventors: Manabu Matsubara, Minoru Yoshimura
  • Patent number: 6980092
    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: April 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    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: 6963794
    Abstract: A system for automatic access or driving authorization for a motor vehicle includes a first device in the form of a control device having at least two states for engaging and disengaging vehicle door locks, an immobilizer, or the like. An associated second device is provided in the form of an electronic key, an ID transmitter, a chip card or the like. Both devices have means for transmitting or receiving signals, including a coded operating signal for authenticating the second device, so that a change in the state of the first device can be implemented when the second device is authorized. Before the second device is first activated, it is in a sleep state in which operation-independent function is not permitted and energy consumption is reduced. During a first operator-dependent authentication, the second device is changed over from the sleep state into a standby state in which an operation-independent function is at least partially made possible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventors: Michael Geber, Uwe Hipp, Johannes Mattes, Karl Mueller, Andreas Pohlmann, Matthias Reinhardt, Markus Ruther, Dietmar Weisser
  • 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: 6950020
    Abstract: A vehicle surveillance system includes a vehicle-installed sensor apparatus for transmitting by radio, sensor information acquired by a sensor, a communication adapter for receiving by radio the sensor information from the vehicle-installed sensor apparatus and transmitting the received sensor information onto a public network, and a surveillance server for receiving the sensor information from the communication adapter. The vehicle surveillance system further includes at least one portable surveillance remote for relaying transmission of the sensor information from the vehicle-installed sensor apparatus to the communication adapter.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: Omron Corporation
    Inventors: Hiroshi Shimamoto, Masayuki Oyagi, Yoshiyuki Otsuki
  • Patent number: 6950008
    Abstract: A method for the authentication of a transceiver unit with respect to a second transceiver unit, located at a distance to it. A first signal is transmitted via an aerial connected to the first unit, when second unit is located within the reception area of the first unit. The first signal is received by means of the second unit via an aerial connected to it, whereby, on the basis of the first signal received, a value is measured that characterizes the strength of the electro-magnetic field generated by the first signal at the location of the second unit. A second signal is transmitted via the aerial connected to the second unit that contains information relating to the magnitude characterizing the field strength; and the second signal is received via the aerial connected to the first unit, where, on the basis of the second signal received, a value is measured that characterizes the strength of the electro-magnetic field generated by the second signal at the location of the first unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2005
    Assignee: Texas Instruments Deutschland GmbH
    Inventors: Andreas Hagl, Konstantin Aslanidis
  • Patent number: 6947731
    Abstract: A method for conversion of a voice output of appliance statuses, wherein three spoken phrases are stored for each appliance to be controlled, with the first spoken phrase being allocated to a first appliance status, the second spoken phrase being allocated to a second appliance status, and the third spoken phrase being allocated for at least one third status. When an appliance status is checked, the relevant appliance sends a data word. If the value (which identifies the current appliance status) of the data word corresponds to a first value, the first spoken phrase is output, if it corresponds to a second, the second spoken phrase is output, and the third spoken phrase and the third value are output for at least one third value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2005
    Assignee: Siemens Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventor: Erich Kamperschroer
  • Patent number: 6937141
    Abstract: Sensor data of respective controlled objects of a vehicle are collected by calling a vehicle remote-control system provided to the vehicle via a mobile phone, and then these data are displayed on an LCD display panel 11c of the mobile phone. In this state, the controlled object to be remotely controlled is selected by operating a cursor (30) and an ON/OFF setting button (31), and then its ON or OFF state is set. At this time, the remote-control command data are transmitted to the vehicle remote-control system from the mobile phone to set the corresponding controlled object. The condition is transmitted once again to the mobile phone as the sensor data, and is displayed on the LCD display panel (11c).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 10, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2005
    Assignee: Yamaha Corporation
    Inventor: Toshihiko Muramatsu
  • Patent number: 6927685
    Abstract: A remote control system includes a remote control transmitter that transmit a signal and a receiver than can receive the signal from the transmitter. A control device performs a function having a first and a second option. The control device responds to the signal received by the receiver and performs the first option if the distance between the remote control transmitter and the receiver is greater than a particular distance and performs a function based on the ambient noise level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2005
    Inventor: Douglas L. Wathen
  • Patent number: 6919797
    Abstract: A remote-controlled lock includes a bottom base, a transmission motor, a connecting rod, a sleeve, a deadbolt, a spring and a casing. The transmission motor is started to rotate clockwise together with the stop member on its shaft by pressing the unlocking button of a remote controller, letting the stop member disengaged from the stopper of the sleeve. Thus, the sleeve and the deadbolt can be moved inward to unlock the remote-controlled lock. On the contrary, pressing the locking button of the remote controller starts the transmission motor to rotate counterclockwise together with the stop member to let the stop member block the stopper of the sleeve. Thus, the sleeve is restricted in position, unable to be moved inward, and the engage member of the deadbolt is engaged in the engage groove of the engage base of a doorjamb to lock the remote-controlled lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2005
    Inventor: Hui-Hua Hsieh
  • 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: 6864800
    Abstract: A crystal-less keyless entry system includes a micro controller, a timing circuit, a memory, and a radio frequency circuit. The memory and timing circuit are a unitary part of the microprocessor. The memory is programmed with a compensation that adjusts an output frequency of the timing circuit such that the output frequency of the timing circuit does not coincide with a frequency discontinuity that occurs within an output of the timing circuit. A method of calibrating the crystal-less keyless entry system includes programming the temperature compensation and a voltage compensation in the memory.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Alps Automotive, Inc.
    Inventors: Wilhelm Leichtfried, Charles McDowell, James Dulgerian
  • 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: 6859138
    Abstract: A vehicle entry and security system includes a key cylinder that is operated using a key. A first cable has one end attached to the key cylinder. A mechanical actuator is attached to an opposite end of the first cable. A second cable has one end attached to the mechanical actuator. A latch is connected to an opposite end of the second cable and releases a door or a trunk. The mechanical actuator triggers a switch when the key operates the key cylinder. A vehicle security system triggers an alarm when the door or trunk is opened without using a key fob. The vehicle security system monitors the state of the switch and prevents the alarm from being triggered when the switch is in a second state. When the key is operated a first number of times within a first period, the vehicle security system reprograms the key fob.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2005
    Assignee: General Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Peter Gordie Thompson
  • Patent number: 6847289
    Abstract: A device for initiating an opening and locking procedure of a motor vehicle. The device includes a first proximity sensor which generates an unlocking intent signal for initiating an opening procedure of a closing system of a vehicle when a user approaches the first proximity sensor. A second proximity sensor is also provided, generating a locking intent signal for initiating a locking procedure of the closing system of the vehicle when a user approaches the second proximity sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2005
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Peter Pang, Daniel Schaeffner, Elmar Giehler, Ulrich Goetz
  • Publication number: 20040257209
    Abstract: An auto anti-thief system employing a bluetooth technique is provided. The anti-thief system includes a system core processor, a bluetooth communication module, an anti-thief alarm control circuit, an indicator control circuit, a door lock initiator control circuit and a power voltage regulator circuit. When cooperating the present invention with the bluetooth communication module built in the mobile phone, it can reduce the loading of carrying the remote controller for the user. Moreover, through the frequency hopping used by the wireless channel of bluetooth, it will not be interfered easily. Furthermore, utilizing 128 bits to protect the encoding method, the security is more increased. Therefore, the present invention breaks through the unidirectional transmission employed by the conventional remote controller.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 29, 2003
    Publication date: December 23, 2004
    Inventor: Wu-Chung Yang
  • Patent number: 6825774
    Abstract: An apparatus includes a moveable part and a transmission and reception device, for remote control of an electronic device, in particular of an entertainment electronic device, using a transponder. In order to initiate various functions, there are stored in a memory of the movable part in the form of a modulated transmitted signal that is analysed in the device in order to produce control signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 30, 2004
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventor: Klaus-Erwin Gröger
  • Publication number: 20040227642
    Abstract: A remote watch (FIGS. 7) design for a car security system, comprising of a display screen and base 706 with keypad 704. A user of the remote watch will not only be able to keep track of the time but also will be able to arm/lock, disarm/unlock and remotely start their vehicle by pushing specific buttons on the watch. It is common for people to lose or misplace their keys along with the keyless remote that is attached to the keys. Since the watch is placed on the users wrist, the user never has to worry about damage due to dropping it on a hard surface, in liquids (ex. water), or even losing their keyless remote as you would by having a keyless remote attached to keys or a key chain. If the user ever loses their keys, the remote watch will now allow the user to still have access to their vehicle without their keys, thus giving the user the freedom to store an extra set of keys in their vehicle in case they lose the original ones.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2003
    Publication date: November 18, 2004
    Inventors: Samuel K. Giles, Christopher E. Smith
  • Patent number: 6812829
    Abstract: The remote start control system may include at least one vehicle device associated with starting an engine of the vehicle, a remote start transmitter, a receiver at the vehicle for receiving signals from the remote start transmitter, and a vehicle remote start controller connected to the data communications bus for communicating with the at least one vehicle device associated with starting the engine of the vehicle. The remote start controller is also connected to the receiver and may be responsive to signals from the remote start transmitter. The vehicle device associated with starting the engine of the vehicle may include at least one controller, such as the engine management controller or the transmission controller, for example. Alternately, or additionally, the at least one vehicle device associated with starting the engine of the vehicle may include at least one vehicle sensor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2004
    Assignee: Omega Patents, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Flick
  • Publication number: 20040201461
    Abstract: This is a system for preventing vehicle theft that can be activated and deactivated from a touch-tone phone. The alarm activation code and alarm deactivation code are capable of activating a plurality of switches through the feedback loop. When the car is stolen, the owner can activate the signal code, which will disable the engine once the thief turns off the engine. After the stolen car is restored, the owner can deactivate the engine-disabling code and drive the car as usual.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2004
    Publication date: October 14, 2004
    Inventors: Donald Parker, Eunice I. Parker
  • Patent number: 6803855
    Abstract: A method for reducing average current consumption in an RF system adjusts RF stabilization time by measuring the temperature of the operating environment. The RF system includes a RF receiver that has a predetermined base RF receiver stabilization time. A temperature sensor takes at least one temperature measurement of the environment in which the RF receiver operates. The base RF receiver stabilization time is then adjusted based on the temperature measurement.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2002
    Date of Patent: October 12, 2004
    Assignee: Siemens VDO Automotive Corporation
    Inventors: Vitaliy Selektor, John R. Costello
  • Publication number: 20040183657
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a robbed vehicle information communication system for vehicle drivers which includes a remote control transmission unit which outputs a password and a work code, a remote control receiving unit which receives a password and work code outputted from the remote control transmission unit and operates a door key switch and a power control switch, a vehicle robbed information transmission unit which is connected with the door key switch and the start key switch, respectively, and transmits his vehicle robbed information to other vehicle drivers nearby, and a vehicle robbed information receiving unit which receives a vehicle robbed information from the other vehicles nearby, wherein in the remote control transmission unit, the remote control receiving unit which is carried by a vehicle driver, and the vehicle robbed information transmission unit and the vehicle robbed information receiving are integrally formed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 18, 2003
    Publication date: September 23, 2004
    Inventor: Eung-Soon Chang
  • Patent number: 6791449
    Abstract: A key fob for use in accessing first and second motor vehicles includes a portable housing defining a hole for receiving a key chain and first and second motor vehicle selector buttons connected to integrated circuit logic within the housing and accessible through the housing. The fob further includes at least one function selector button connected to the integrated circuit logic and accessible through the housing. The integrated circuit logic is configured to select the first or second motor vehicle upon activation of the first or second motor vehicle selector buttons respectively. The integrated circuit logic controls a lock of the selected motor vehicle upon activation of the function selector button.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Inventor: Raman N. Dewan
  • Patent number: 6784803
    Abstract: Apparatuses and methods for monitoring and detecting seat belt usage, having an enforcement device with an enforcement circuit board and a vehicle device with a vehicle circuit board. Each of the enforcement circuit board and the vehicle circuit board has a transformer and a receiver and a pair of antennas for transmitting and receiving a first signal and a return signal. The enforcement device and the vehicle device communicate a properly fastened state or an improperly fastened state for a seat belt.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Seatbelt Safety First--LLC
    Inventors: George E. Hypke, Robert R. Walker
  • Patent number: 6774779
    Abstract: A vehicle security system with a tire monitoring device comprises at least one vehicle sensor for detecting unauthorized actions, at least one sensor module, a controller and a remote unit. The sensor module is attached to a tire of a vehicle for sensing the tire conditions and transmitting a first radio frequency signal including the tire conditions. The controller is attached to the vehicle, and is used for generating a plurality of signals of security system conditions in response to the at least one vehicle sensor and for receiving and operating the first radio frequency signal including the tire condition. The controller then is used for transmitting a second radio frequency signal including the security system condition signals and the tire conditions. The remote unit receives the second radio frequency signal and generates a plurality of remote indications for showing the security system conditions and the tire conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: Lite-on Automotive Corporation
    Inventor: Sheng Hsiung Lin
  • Publication number: 20040150512
    Abstract: A communication system that controls the disabling and enabling of a communication function in a communication portion of a portable device in accordance with whether the communication function of the portable device is disabled or enabled. The communication system includes a selection device for selecting a disablement mode, which disables automatic communication of the portable device with respect to a communication controller, and a communication mode, which enables automatic communication of the portable device. A determination unit recognizes which one of the disablement mode and the communication mode the portable device is in to determine whether to enable or disable automatic communication with respect to the portable device in accordance with the recognition. A recognition information providing device provides the determination unit with recognition information used to recognize which one of the disablement mode and the communication mode the portable device is in.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2003
    Publication date: August 5, 2004
    Applicant: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventor: Fumitaka Yoshikawa
  • Patent number: 6759943
    Abstract: A remote memory preference system for a passenger vehicle is disclosed. The remote memory preference system utilizes existing passive or active remote entry devices. Memory preference settings include driver's seat position, mirror positions and radio station presets. Once these settings are adjusted by a primary vehicle user, they are stored in a memory location in the vehicle either automatically or when a memory button on the remote entry device is depressed by the user. Settings may then be later recalled either automatically by activating the remote entry device or when a recall button on the remote entry device is depressed by the user. The system may also employ a shift register system, which would automatically store current and previous memory preference settings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Assignee: Siemens VDO Automotive Corporation
    Inventors: Scott Lucy, James A. Poirier, Frank Buccinna, Gerald Ostrander, Joseph R. Thompson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6756885
    Abstract: A control system includes a transmitter, a receiver for receiving signals from the transmitter, and a multi-vehicle compatible controller cooperating with the transmitter and receiver. The multi-vehicle compatible controller is for storing a set of device codes for a given vehicle device for a plurality of different vehicles, for reading a device code from a data communications bus, and for determining a match between a read device code and the stored device codes to thereby provide compatibility with a plurality of different vehicles. Such an arrangement provides for a relatively simple and straightforward approach to interface with a vehicle having a data communications bus. The multi-vehicle compatible controller may include a memory for the stored device codes, and a processor cooperating with the memory for determining the match between the read device code and the stored device codes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Omega Patents, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Flick
  • Patent number: 6756886
    Abstract: A remote start control system may include an engine speed data bus reader at the vehicle for reading the engine speed signal on the vehicle data communications bus, and a remote start controller at the vehicle and connected to a receiver and the engine speed data bus reader for operating the engine starter based upon a remote start transmitter and based upon the engine speed signal. In some embodiments, the engine speed signal may include a digital code, and the engine speed data bus reader reads the digital code and converts the digital code into a pulsed tachometer emulation signal for the remote start controller. In other embodiments, the engine speed data bus reader generates an output level based upon the digital code exceeding at least one threshold, such as an engine started or engine overspeed threshold. The remote start control system is readily interfaced to a vehicle having a data communications bus to thereby be able to operate using an engine speed signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: Omega Patents, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Flick
  • Patent number: 6744364
    Abstract: A distance sensitive remote control system includes a remote control transmitter that transmit a signal and a receiver than can receive the signal from the transmitter. A control device performs a function having a first and a second option. The control device responds to the signal received by the receiver and performs the first option if the distance between the remote control transmitter and the receiver is greater than a particular distance and performs the second option if the distance between the remote control transmitter and the receiver is less than a particular distance.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Inventor: Douglas L. Wathen
  • Patent number: 6737965
    Abstract: A commander transmits a command signal that includes a channel code set by a channel code setting switch. When receiving the transmission command signal from the commander, a transmitter transmits a response signal that contains the channel code contained in the command signal and a unique ID code of the transmitter. When receiving the response signal from the transmitter, a receiver stores the ID code contained in the response signal in the memory if the channel code contained in the response signal is related to a channel code set by a channel code setting switch. As a result, the ID codes of the transmitter is correctly registered in the receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 18, 2004
    Assignee: Pacific Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Youichi Okubo
  • Publication number: 20040090315
    Abstract: A digital processor-based remote controller of a wireless remote control system includes a small number of manual input devices, such as keys and scroll wheels, and a graphical user interface. The remote controller can have a single scroll wheel with internal push-to-activate switch, and a small display. This configuration minimizes the size of the remote controller, while allowing for a large number of different control commands to be transmitted to the controlled system. In addition, the remote controller can be configured by the user for both right- and left-handed operation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 30, 2003
    Publication date: May 13, 2004
    Applicant: Directed Electronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Tyson James Mackjust, Mark Edward Rutledge, Jerry Wayne Birchfield
  • Patent number: 6731195
    Abstract: A tamper-resistant anti-theft system suitable for vehicles includes a radio signal receiver capable of receiving periodically broadcast keep-alive signals. The keep-alive signals, each coded for a particular protected vehicle, are provided by a monitoring agency with which the protected property is registered. The anti-theft system includes logic for validating a received signal. The system also includes a run signal generator for generating a limited-duration run signal that permits the protected property to be used normally for the duration. If the vehicle is reported stolen, the monitoring agency stops broadcasting keep-alive signals for the vehicle. Once the current run signal lapses, operations are initiated to prevent further normal use of the vehicle. Property other than vehicles can be protected by the system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2004
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventor: Kazuo Nemoto
  • Patent number: 6703926
    Abstract: An onboard, multi-channel vehicle communication system uses a wireless hand-held control and display unit which can be removed from a charging cradle and moved about the interior of an automotive vehicle. An alarm function reminds the user of the hand-held unit that he/she is leaving the immediate area of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Yazaki North America
    Inventor: Sergio Alexandre Paulo
  • Patent number: 6703929
    Abstract: An automobile vehicle equipped with a “hands-free” access and/or engine starting system controlled by a management logic subassembly and equipped with a radio receiver subassembly, which includes at the top of the vehicle's steering column a radio antenna and which converts radio signals received by said antenna into signals exploitable by said management logic subassembly to enable it, when it recognizes said signals as coming from an identification device of a predetermined user, to authorize or trigger an operation in the vehicle, said management logic subassembly, said radio receiver subassembly and said antenna being integrated in and interconnected by an electronic board, wherein this electronic board also includes a subassembly providing interfaces with “on-the-column” control and/or signaling parts mounted on the vehicle's steering column or steering wheel and/or on one or more satellite modules mounted on this steering column.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Assignee: Valeo Electronique
    Inventor: Xavier Baudard
  • Publication number: 20040036584
    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: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2003
    Publication date: February 26, 2004
    Inventor: David Douglas Briick
  • Patent number: 6696927
    Abstract: A vehicle security system includes a vehicle security sensor and associated sensor bus interface, an alarm indicator and associated alarm indicator bus interface, and an alarm controller and associated alarm controller bus interface for interfacing the alarm controller. The vehicle security system is for a vehicle of a type including a data communications bus connecting a plurality of vehicle devices. The security system preferably further includes a desired signal enabling circuit for enabling the alarm controller to operate using a set of desired signals for a desired vehicle from among a plurality of possible sets of signals for different vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Omega Patents, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Flick
  • Patent number: 6696982
    Abstract: A wireless communication circuit provides wireless communication with a network; and a supply power control circuit controls supplying a power to at least one of said wireless communication circuit and a unit in a vehicle in response to a command signal which is inputted from an operation circuit or through the wireless communication circuit. The power is periodically supplied to a unit in its vehicle or the wireless communication circuit. A control circuit receives data from the unit and stores the data. The data is outputted or transmitted in response a data request. The unit may be a position detection circuit including a GSP receiver. The power is cut off when the unit is not used. Information is transmitted to the vehicle terminal apparatus which stores and displays it in response to a data command or a start-up of the vehicle. A diagnostic function may be provided. The main battery may be checked and the result is transmitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenji Yoshioka, Takumi Ajima
  • Patent number: 6696938
    Abstract: A vehicle security system includes at least one vehicle sensor, a remote transmitter to be carried by a user, and a controller positioned in the vehicle. The controller may be switchable to at least one of an armed mode and a disarmed mode based upon the remote transmitter, and the controller may cause a light indicator circuit of the vehicle to selectively supply power to at least one vehicle light bulb upon switching to at least one of the armed and disarmed modes. The vehicle security system may also include a strobe light device at the vehicle and electrically connected to the light indicator circuit for providing a confirmation indication to the user that the controller has been switched to at least one of the armed and disarmed modes. This may be done based upon a leading or trailing edge of the power supplied by the light indicator circuit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 24, 2004
    Assignee: Omega Patents, L.L.C.
    Inventor: Kenneth E. Flick