Vehicle Door Patents (Class 340/5.72)
-
Publication number: 20150002266Abstract: Method for improving the security of communication between the electronic key and vehicle to prevent interception by a third-party item of electronic equipment by highlighting in such event, a time delay in acknowledgement of this signal by the key. This method includes, before authorizing the access to and/or starting of the vehicle, additional steps of adapting the amplitude of a coded identification request signal received by the key to reach the detection threshold of the key as soon as possible; measuring the sum of the duration of the emission of the coded interrogation signal and of the duration of the response signal of the electronic key; comparing the sum of the measured durations to a reference duration, and triggering an alarm relating to the conditions of access to and/or starting of the vehicle when the separation between this sum of durations and the reference duration is above a preset threshold.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 19, 2014Publication date: January 1, 2015Applicants: CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE GMBH, CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE FRANCEInventors: Alain BRILLON, Isabelle VERDON
-
Patent number: 8919159Abstract: The invention relates to an actuator (10) for closing and/or opening a mobile part, especially a door, a tailgate or the like. Said actuator comprises a support (20), an actuating element (30), an electronic unit (50) and a detector system (60), the actuating element (30) being arranged on the support (20), the detector system (60) being arranged in the region of the actuating element (30) and at least a locking or unlocking action being triggerable directly or indirectly on the detector system (60). The electronic unit (50) interacts with the detector system (60) and the electronic unit (50) controls a locking system (40) for locking or unlocking. The invention is characterized in that a receiving unit (70) is integrated into the support (20) and/or into a handle shell (32) in a material fit, at least a part of the electronic unit (50) being permanently accommodated in the receiving unit (70).Type: GrantFiled: October 5, 2007Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: Huf Hulsbeck & Furst GmbH & Co. KGInventors: Martin Witte, Mario Christensen, Erkan Korultay
-
Patent number: 8922339Abstract: A system and method for receiving signals from a tire pressure monitoring (TPM) system, a remote keyless entry (RKE) system, and a passive entry system in a manner that reduces the occurrence of signal interference includes transmitting at least a first signal to a receiver on the vehicle. The receiver is configured to have multiple channels for receiving the TPM signal, the RKE signal and/or the passive entry signal. The method also includes receiving the first signal on a first receiver channel. The method further includes selecting a second receiver channel for receiving at least a second signal when the second signal is or will be generated.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2005Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Riad Ghabra, Ronald O. King, John Nantz, Tom Q. Tang
-
Patent number: 8919831Abstract: A door handle device for a vehicle includes a door handle configured to be supported by a door panel, the door handle including a first handle case arranged to have a void relative to the door panel, a second handle case fixed to the first handle case at a side opposite from the door panel, and a lock command detection sensor including a lock detection signal processing circuit fixed to an inner side of the first handle case, a circuit connection portion electrically connected to the lock detection signal processing circuit, and a lock detection electrode assembled on the second handle case in a state to be arranged along an inner surface of the second handle case, the lock detection electrode being electrically connected to the circuit connection portion in a state where the second handle case is fixed to the first handle case.Type: GrantFiled: July 20, 2011Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignees: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki Kaisha, Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Masashi Tateishi, Eiji Mushiake, Hiroki Okada, Ryuta Atsumi, Shigeki Nishiyama
-
Patent number: 8922340Abstract: A vehicle door latch assembly includes a first proximity sensor on a first side of a door handle and a second proximity sensor on a second side of the door handle. The assembly also includes a latch operative to latch the door closed and to unlatch the door to allow the door to open. The assembly further includes control circuitry for activating the latch to unlatch the door based on an object such as an operator's hand sensed with both the first and second proximity sensors.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2012Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Stuart C. Salter, Yun Shin Lee, Pietro Buttolo, Cornel Lewis Gardner
-
Patent number: 8922357Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a method for programming keys to a vehicle to establish primary keys and secondary keys to control vehicle functionality is disclosed. The method comprises receiving a key identification signal from a first key. The method further comprises generating a key status signal indicative of whether the first key is one of a primary key and a secondary key in response to the key identification signal. The method further comprises transmitting the key status signal to a vehicle interface display. The method further comprises allowing a user to change a status of at least one of the first key and an additional key with the vehicle interface display in response to determining that the key status signal corresponds to the primary key.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2012Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Thomas Lee Miller, Brian Bennie, Scott Alan Watkins, Michael L. Gusta, Eric L. Reed
-
Patent number: 8924087Abstract: A motor vehicle has a plurality of doors, each secured by a lock, peripheral control units, each connected to one of said locks, for sending a command signal to an actuator of the lock, a central control unit for sending command signals to the actuators of the locks, and an accident detector. If the accident detector has detected an accident, at least one of the actuators is switchable from a central operating mode in which it executes command signals of the central control unit and its associated peripheral control unit into a peripheral operating mode in which it executes only command signals from its peripheral control unit.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2012Date of Patent: December 30, 2014Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Andreas Heberer, Jeffrey L. Konchan, Frank J. Arabia, Jr., Matthias Ruehr, David T. Proefke, Jeffrey James Hoorn, Peter Eduard Schuessler, Richard J. Lange
-
Patent number: 8912883Abstract: A customer uses a wireless portable device to interact with a remote cloud-based car rental service. Details at check in are recorded and the customer is authorized to take possession of the car. At checkout, additional details are noted, a receipt is produced, and the customer leaves the car at the car facility. The check-in and checkout process can be achieved without any car rental attendant. That is, the customer via the wireless portable device and with the assistance of the remote cloud-based car rental service completely achieves check in and checkout for a car rental.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2010Date of Patent: December 16, 2014Assignee: NCR CorporationInventor: Erick Kobres
-
Patent number: 8907762Abstract: An electronic key system that performs ID verification communication to verify an ID of an electronic key. The ID verification communication is started by transmission of a wireless signal from a vehicle and performed between the vehicle and the electronic key. The electronic key system determines the location of the electronic key in accordance with the received signal strength of a radio wave used for the ID verification communication. A signal strength measurement circuit measures a first signal strength, which is the received signal strength when a signal from the electronic key is received, and a second signal strength, which is the received signal strength of the radio wave during a vacant time when the electronic key is performing the ID verification communication. A control unit controls operation of the electronic key in accordance with a measurement result of the first and second signal strengths.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2011Date of Patent: December 9, 2014Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki SeisakushoInventor: Masayuki Kawamura
-
Publication number: 20140347163Abstract: A system for accessing a vehicle when the main battery is incapable of supplying sufficient power for actuating the vehicle's power door locks/latches comprises: a power supply in the door or release handle supplying power to the vehicle's power latch; an entry authentication device for receiving one or more inputs for authenticating a user's access to the vehicle, the entry authentication device powered by the rechargeable power supply; and a latch controller powered by the power supply and operatively connected to the power latch and the at least one entry authentication device to receive information from the entry authentication device corresponding to the one or more inputs. The latch controller can authenticate a user's access to the vehicle to place the power latch in an unlocked state so that the door can be opened.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 7, 2013Publication date: November 27, 2014Inventors: C. Bruce Banter, Jeffrey Stokes, Marcus Merideth, Rob Bingle
-
Publication number: 20140347164Abstract: A door handle system for a door of a vehicle includes a door handle assembly, a locking mechanism, a control and a near field communication device. The door handle assembly is configured to mount at a handle region of a vehicle door of the vehicle. The near field communication device is operable to receive signals from a smartphone that is within a threshold distance from the near field communication device. The control, responsive to the near field communication device, is operable to determine whether or not a smartphone that is within the threshold distance and that is communicating with the near field communication device is an authorized device. The control is operable to actuate the locking mechanism to unlock the vehicle door responsive to a determination that the smartphone within the threshold distance and communicating with the near field communication device is an authorized device.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 11, 2014Publication date: November 27, 2014Inventors: Darryl P. De Wind, Justin E. Sobecki, Eric S. Deuel
-
Patent number: 8896418Abstract: A wireless unit for a wireless vehicle system includes a receiver for receiving a vehicle-originating signal, a transmitter for transmitting a reply signal, a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) for determining a received signal strength of the vehicle-originating signal, a memory for storing sensitivity data, and a control unit in electrical communication with the receiver, the transmitter, the RSSI and the memory. The receiver has a sensitivity, and the memory is for storing sensitivity data corresponding to the sensitivity of the receiver. The control unit is configured to communicate with the transmitter to direct the transmitter to transmit the reply signal. The reply signal includes received signal strength data used for determining a distance between the wireless unit and an associated vehicle-side transmitter on an associated vehicle. The received signal strength data is based on the received signal strength and the sensitivity data.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2011Date of Patent: November 25, 2014Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Brian K. Lickfelt
-
Patent number: 8896417Abstract: A system for operating a gate of a vehicle may include a laser diode unit that shows step positions for operating the gate by radiating a plurality of laser points onto the ground, an ultrasonic wave sensor unit that measures the distance between the bottom of the rear bumper and the step positions and senses step input from a change in the distance due to the user stepping on the step positions, a gate driving unit that opens/closes the gate, using a driving part, and a control unit that controls the opening/closing operation of the gate driving unit on the basis of information on a step-on status kept for a predetermined time by the user which may be found by the ultrasonic wave sensor unit.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2012Date of Patent: November 25, 2014Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventors: Youngwook Song, Huijeong Bae, Kichang Yi
-
Patent number: 8890654Abstract: A system may include a system controller in communication with a function controller and configured to receive an authentication request. The authentication request may include a user input and the user input may be authenticated by matching the user input with at least one stored input. The controller may determine a vehicle mode and update, via the function controller, a status associated with a key fob in response to the vehicle mode being in an authenticated mode.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2013Date of Patent: November 18, 2014Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventor: John Robert Van Wiemeersch
-
Patent number: 8884740Abstract: A method for activating a function of a vehicle, which is associated with a key which wirelessly interchanges data with the vehicle, is carried out with the aid of a telecommunications device which is different from the key. However, the telecommunications device attempts to communicate with the key in order to make the method safe. During communication with the key, an item of information is obtained and is compared with an item of comparative information.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2012Date of Patent: November 11, 2014Assignee: Audi AGInventors: Heiko Kuebler, Eckart Donner
-
Patent number: 8872620Abstract: A wireless key system and location detection method determine whether a wireless key is located inside or outside a main body. A communication device in the main body transmits a wireless signal using an inner antenna and an outer antenna outside the main body having a different directivity. A wireless key measures direction of movement of the wireless key when the wireless signal is received by one of antennas having different directivities, detects one of the antennas receiving the highest signal level of the wireless signal as a first antenna, selects one of the antennas having the same directivity as the inner antenna as a second antenna according to the measured direction of movement and detected directivity of the antenna, and decides that the wireless key is inside the main body based on the signal levels of the wireless signals received by the first and second antennas.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2011Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Lapis Semiconductor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Nobumasa Higemoto, Takashi Taya
-
Patent number: 8872629Abstract: In one embodiment, a passive transponder comprising a first circuit comprising a first attenuator, the first circuit configured to receive a first signal from at least one base station and coupled to a first node, a first rectifier coupled to the first node, the first rectifier configured in a forward direction to charge a first capacitor, and the first capacitor coupled to the first rectifier, the first capacitor configured to receive a charge from the attenuator sufficient for powering the passive transponder.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2011Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Atmel CorporationInventor: Werner Ziegler
-
Patent number: 8874256Abstract: A system for in-vehicle monitoring and control of commodity loading, such a grain or loose or fluid materials, from a storage bin to a transport bin using a loading system, includes a loading system control device and a user interface device capable of mutual wireless communication. The system improves safety by eliminating the need for operators to crawl up the side of vehicle in order to check levels of commodity in the transport bin, while also trying to move the transport bin as required. The loading system control device includes a logic switching unit for selectively operating the loading system that transfers the commodity from the storage bin; one or more cameras providing visual feeds of the loading of commodity into the transport bin; and a security or safety feature. The user interface device includes a display for displaying the visual feeds and control switches for operating the loading system.Type: GrantFiled: August 18, 2009Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Loadout Technologies LLCInventor: Neil T Mylet
-
Patent number: 8872621Abstract: A capacitance type detection device may include a sensor electrode forming a capacitor with respect to a peripheral conductor; a measurement unit measuring the floating capacitance of the sensor electrode, which changes correspondingly to a positional relation between the sensor electrode and the detection object; and a judgment unit judging the approach of the detection object in a case in which there is satisfied an approach detection condition including a fact that a magnitude correlation between a time rate-of-change of the floating capacitance measured by the measurement unit and a predetermined time rate-of-change which is defined correspondingly to a combination of the detection object and an object to be discriminated so as to be different from the detection object lies in a predetermined relation.Type: GrantFiled: February 24, 2012Date of Patent: October 28, 2014Assignee: Sumida CorporationInventors: Yoshinori Miura, Hitoshi Moriya, Takanobu Rokuka
-
Patent number: 8860550Abstract: An in-vehicle device controller includes: an in-vehicle unit for controlling an in-vehicle device; and a portable device. The in-vehicle unit includes a request signal transmitter for transmitting a request signal including random information to the portable device. The portable device transmits a response signal in response to the request signal at multiple frequencies according to a switching pattern corresponding to a part of the random information. The in-vehicle unit further includes: a frequency specifying device for specifying the switching pattern based on the part of the random information; and a reception determination device for executing a reception determination process of the response signal based on a specified switching pattern. The in-vehicle device identifies the portable device according to the reception determination process, and controls the in-vehicle device according to an identification of the portable device.Type: GrantFiled: October 25, 2011Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignees: DENSO CORPORATION, Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Kazuhiro Nakashima, Arinobu Kimura, Hiroki Okada, Hiroko Murakami
-
Patent number: 8860566Abstract: A device for monitoring the lining thickness of a brake lining of a friction brake of a vehicle is disclosed, wherein the brake lining interacts with a friction partner, such as a brake disk. The brake lining is equipped with at least one passive transponder of an RFID system, wherein the passive transponder is changed and/or destroyed once the brake lining has reached a defined wear threshold as a result of contact with the friction partner or with an element that is guided by the friction partner, such that the transponder transmits a signal that differs from an expected signal, or no signal, to a reading unit of the RFID system after being illuminated by the reading unit.Type: GrantFiled: February 20, 2009Date of Patent: October 14, 2014Assignee: Knorr-Bremse Systeme fur Schienenfahrzeuge GmbHInventor: Marc-Gregory Elstorpff
-
Publication number: 20140300448Abstract: An in-vehicle device stores a Wake Up pattern, which notifies a mobile device of a start of communication, in an area before a data storage area of a frame and transmits the frame, the mobile device includes a modulation/demodulation circuit and a microcomputer that perform a predetermined reception process on a reception signal, a pattern determination circuit that, when the reception signal includes a Wake Up pattern, determines to start communication and activates the modulation/demodulation circuit and the microcomputer, a power detection circuit that detects power of the reception signal, and, when power is detected for a certain period of time or longer, activates the pattern determination circuit, and a Wake-Up control unit that activates the power detection circuit for a predetermined time with a constant period during a time period other than during communication.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 10, 2012Publication date: October 9, 2014Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric CorporationInventors: Mari Ochiai, Akinori Taira
-
Patent number: 8854181Abstract: A remote wireless keyless entry transmitter includes a communications interface for connecting the transmitter directly to an in-vehicle network for registering the transmitter with the vehicle access system. The interface is further connectable to a personal computer to load a set of control codes and programming codes corresponding to a vehicle. The transmitter is programmable to operate multiple functions for multiple vehicles, separately or simultaneously. The transmitter can include a transponder circuit, a display, an accelerometer and a key coupler. A wireless transponder is operationally associated with a vehicle security system by physically connecting the transponder to a vehicle data port with a temporary data link and transferring data between the security system and the transponder over the data link to enable subsequent wireless operation of the security system with the transponder. The transmitter can include an audible signal generator and be programmable to respond to a pager signal.Type: GrantFiled: June 17, 2013Date of Patent: October 7, 2014Assignee: Secured Mobility, LLCInventors: Emmanuel Enrique Lopez, Michael Laranang
-
Patent number: 8847731Abstract: A system for communicating with a vehicle includes a control module equipped with a remote keyless entry (RKE) receiver and configured to control vehicle functions in response to a RKE signal. The system includes a fob equipped with a RKE transmitter and a short range transceiver, such as BLUETOOTH™, IEEE 802.11, or near field communication (NFC). The fob transmits a RKE signal in response to receiving a message from a consumer device, such as a cellular phone, smart phone, tablet computer, or personal computer equipped with a short range transceiver, enabling the user to control the vehicle from the consumer device. The system may be configured to transmit vehicle status information to the consumer device. The control module may include a third short range transceiver that communicates with the consumer device when the distance is between the vehicle and the consumer device is less than the distance threshold.Type: GrantFiled: June 29, 2011Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventor: Craig A. Tieman
-
Patent number: 8847770Abstract: In at least one embodiment, an apparatus for performing an alcohol monitor in a vehicle based on a driver being one of a primary driver and a secondary driver is provided. The apparatus comprises an electronic device that is positioned within the vehicle. The electronic device is configured to receive a driver status signal indicating that the driver of the vehicle is the secondary driver. The electronic device is further configured to receive an alcohol content measurement from an alcohol monitoring device (AMD) indicative of blood alcohol content for the secondary driver. The electronic device is further configured to compare the alcohol content measurement to a predetermined alcohol content.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2009Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Thomas Lee Miller, Brian Bennie, Steven Yellin Schondorf
-
Publication number: 20140285320Abstract: A vehicle security system that includes a knock detection means such as a microphone configured to detect knocking on the vehicle such as knocking on a window of the vehicle. The system includes a controller configured to receive a signal from the knock detection means and unlock a door of the vehicle if the signal corresponds to a predetermined pattern.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 20, 2013Publication date: September 25, 2014Applicant: DELPHI TECHNOLOGIES, INC.Inventors: STEPHEN C. BLACKMER, ERIC J. MAYO
-
Publication number: 20140285321Abstract: A panic device operable in conjunction with a local device is configured to unlock a locking mechanism. The panic device can take the form of an electronic key fob, a key shaft, or a key holder. A first trigger on the panic device triggers a local alarm that is on-board or off-board the panic device. A second trigger on the panic device can activate an alarm circuitry that utilizes a local device to provide position information to a distant dispatch station. The local device uses a GPS-aware circuitry or other non-GPS means such as triangulation to determine the position information. The position information can then be sent to the distant dispatch station with or without the aid of the local device.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 3, 2014Publication date: September 25, 2014Applicant: Global Life-Line, Inc.Inventor: Robert Eisenman
-
Patent number: 8841988Abstract: A garage door opener (GDO) system and method include a remote keyless entry (RKE) receiver and a GDO system interconnected by a vehicle bus. Upon receiving a RKE GDO request signal from a key fob, the RKE receiver forwards a command signal over the vehicle bus to the GDO transmitter. Upon receiving the command signal from the RKE receiver, the GDO transmitter transmits a garage door signal to a GDO receiver of a garage to control a garage door.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2007Date of Patent: September 23, 2014Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Jason T. Summerford, Mike Fawaz
-
Publication number: 20140266594Abstract: Techniques are disclosed for permitting a person to keylessly start a vehicle using a machine-sensible item such as his/her mobile device without requiring the person to possess a smart key.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 14, 2014Publication date: September 18, 2014Applicant: The Crawford Group, Inc.Inventor: Derik Reiser
-
Patent number: 8836477Abstract: A portable communication machine includes RF data generating means, RF wireless transmitting means for transmitting transmission data as an RF signal, RF wireless receiving means for receiving an RF signal transmitted from a vehicle-mounted machine, RF data analyzing means for analyzing received data, key operating means for instructing to control a vehicle by a user, storing means for storing control data of a vehicle-mounted information apparatus, attachable/detachable external apparatus communicating means, and controlling means for controlling the RF data generating means, the RF data analyzing means, the key operating means and the external apparatus communicating means, and is used along with an external apparatus and the vehicle-mounted information apparatus.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2008Date of Patent: September 16, 2014Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric CorporationInventor: Masanobu Hiramine
-
Patent number: 8831817Abstract: A computer-implemented method, executable by a vehicle computing system (VCS), includes determining that a connection between a wireless device and a VCS has been lost. The method further includes determining if a driver is present in the vehicle, upon a lost link detection. The method additionally includes waiting until an enter-event occurs and then attempting to re-establish a connection between the wireless device and the VCS. This last step may be conditional upon a determination that a driver is not present.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2011Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventor: Doron M. Elliott
-
Patent number: 8831820Abstract: A vehicle group control device for controlling the arrangement of vehicles within a vehicle group including plural vehicles, the vehicle group control device including: a periphery monitoring performance grasping unit which grasps a periphery monitoring performance of each vehicle constituting the vehicle group; and an arrangement determination unit which determines the arrangement of the vehicles within the vehicle group on the basis of the periphery monitoring performance of each vehicle. Accordingly, since the periphery monitoring performance of each vehicle within the vehicle group is grasped and the arrangement of the vehicles within the vehicle group can be determined on the basis of the periphery monitoring performance of each vehicle, it is possible to efficiently drive the entire vehicle group.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2009Date of Patent: September 9, 2014Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Kunihito Sato
-
Patent number: 8823469Abstract: A SAW filter includes at least four electrically interconnected DMS tracks. First and second tracks of the at least four DMS tracks are connected in parallel in opposite directions to form a first filter element. The first and second tracks have two resonant frequencies that are offset from one another from track to track within the first filter element such that they define a common passband by virtue of a lower-frequency resonance of the first track being in phase at the same frequency as a higher-frequency resonance of the second track. Third and fourth tracks of the at least four DMS tracks can be connected in a similar fashion to form a second filter element. The passbands of the first and second filter elements are offset from one another and each comprise one of two channels of a two-channel filter.Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2010Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignee: Epcos AGInventor: Thomas Telgmann
-
Patent number: 8823486Abstract: An antitheft system of a charger for an electric vehicle that prevents theft of a charger during charging a battery of the electric vehicle is disclosed. More specifically, a first signal generating portion is provided at the charger, receives a decoupling will of the charger, and generates a decoupling signal. A second signal generating portion generates a position signal, so that anyone who is allowed to handle the electric vehicle possesses the second signal generating portion. A control portion generates an operating signal when both the decoupling signal of the first signal generating portion and the position signal of the second signal generating portion are received by the control portion. Once received, an actuator decouples the charger from the connector once the operating signal from the control portion is received.Type: GrantFiled: August 22, 2011Date of Patent: September 2, 2014Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors CorporationInventors: Yun Jae Jung, Seok Kim, Taehyoung Park
-
Patent number: 8803656Abstract: A card-type electronic key having a high level of portability and including an emergency mechanical key that is difficult to duplicate. The electronic key is used with a communication controller arranged in a vehicle. The electronic key includes a communication circuit unit which transmits a wireless signal including an authentication code. The communication circuit unit is allowed to control an external device arranged on the subject when the communication controller receiving the wireless signal determines that the verification code is authentic. A key card unit includes a verification code pattern formed by through holes. A concealment film is removably adhered to the key card unit and conceals the through holes so that the through holes cannot be seen.Type: GrantFiled: February 25, 2009Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki SeisakushoInventors: Takumi Tamezane, Toshiharu Katagiri, Noriyasu Shamoto
-
Patent number: 8803657Abstract: The RFID-mechanical dual-mode entry key includes a key blade attached to and extending away from a housing. A double-pole, double-throw (DPDT) switch is disposed on the key blade housing. A microantenna disposed in the housing is connected to the switch. An unlock passive Radio Frequency microcircuit disposed in the key blade housing is operably connected to a first pole of the DPDT switch to activate the unlock passive RF microcircuit when the switch is thrown to the first pole, exclusively connecting the unlock passive RF microcircuit to the microantenna. A lock passive Radio Frequency microcircuit disposed in the key blade housing is operably connected to a second pole of the DPDT switch to activate the lock passive RF microcircuit when the switch is thrown to the second pole, exclusively connecting the lock passive RF microcircuit to the microantenna, The key supports remote/mechanical locking/unlocking of a vehicle door.Type: GrantFiled: July 25, 2013Date of Patent: August 12, 2014Inventor: Fawzi Q. M. A. O. A. Behbehani
-
Patent number: 8786401Abstract: An extendable flush door handle assembly for a door or liftgate of a vehicle includes a base portion and a handle portion movably attached to the base portion. The handle portion is movable between a recessed position, where the handle portion is at least partially received in the base portion, and a partially extended position, where the handle portion extends partially outward from the base portion and is graspable by a user. The handle portion is moved from the recessed position to the partially extended position responsive to a trigger, such as a signal from a key fob or a passive entry system or a vehicle door unlock button or the like. The handle portion, when in its recessed position, is at least partially received in the base portion so as to be not readily graspable by a user until the handle portion is moved toward its partially extended position.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2010Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.Inventors: Justin E. Sobecki, Keith D. Foote, Eric S. Deuel
-
Patent number: 8786413Abstract: A remote determines an acknowledgement is not received for a command transmitted to a first device, broadcasts a discovery message, receives a response from a second device that received the discovery message and a proximity signal from the remote, and configures itself to control the second device. The remote may also transmit an acknowledgement to the second device. The second device may notify the first device. In various implementations, configuration information in the response may include pairing information and the remote may unpair itself from the first device and pair with the second device. In some implementations, the remote may include a table for controlling devices and the remote may utilize an entry in the table for the second device instead of the first device. In various implementations, the remote may receive responses to the discovery message from multiple devices and may select one to configure itself to control.Type: GrantFiled: November 2, 2011Date of Patent: July 22, 2014Assignee: EchoStar Technologies, L.L.C.Inventor: William R. Reams
-
Patent number: 8775012Abstract: What is described is a motor vehicle ignition key and a method including a movement sensor for detecting the movement of the motor vehicle ignition key, a motor vehicle navigation device, and a method including a calculator for calculating a driving route in dependence of movement data, and a motor vehicle system and a method including a motor vehicle ignition key and a motor vehicle controller.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2010Date of Patent: July 8, 2014Assignee: Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Foerderung der angewandten Forschung e. V.Inventors: Christian Podolak, Hans Joachim Moersdorf, Christian Arzt, Martin Rulsch, Sergey Ershov, Robert Couronne
-
Patent number: 8773248Abstract: A vehicle control device mounted on a vehicle has a search signal transmission unit that transmits a search signal for searching a position of a portable device, which remotely operates the control device, a determination unit that determines a bright and dark state of outside of the vehicle, and a storage unit that stores a determination result of the determination unit.Type: GrantFiled: February 12, 2010Date of Patent: July 8, 2014Assignee: Omron Automotive Electronics Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hideo Ebizawa, Hideyuki Ohara
-
Patent number: 8773240Abstract: The invention relates to a method for detecting an identification object in an area (ZO) around an antenna device. The invention is characterized in that it comprises the following steps in which: a calibration signal (S_CAL) is emitted in the direction of the antenna device in order to determine a control power (PR); a functional signal (S_FONC) corresponding to the control power (PR) is emitted in the direction of the antenna device, such that the antenna device emits a predetermined magnetic field; the magnetic field (Br) received by the identification object, corresponding to the emitted magnetic field, is measured and compared with a nominal magnetic field (B0); and, depending on the result of said comparison, it is determined if the identification object is located inside the area (ZO) around the antenna device. The invention is suitable for motor vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 2009Date of Patent: July 8, 2014Assignee: Valeo Securite HabitacleInventors: Eric Leconte, Stéphane Violleau
-
Patent number: 8760300Abstract: A system for preventing driving a vehicle by an alcohol intoxicated person, includes at least one alcohol sensor for detecting a presence of an alcohol in a potential driver; a door of a vehicle provided with a door lock; and a unit operatively connected with said sensor and with a door lock and configured for preventing unlocking of said door lock of said door of a vehicle and opening said door of a vehicle when said alcohol level sensor senses an alcohol level in the potential driver which is not within an allowable range.Type: GrantFiled: April 25, 2012Date of Patent: June 24, 2014Inventor: Gabriel Sezanayev
-
Patent number: 8749345Abstract: An authorization system for permitting an apparatus to function normally in the presence of an authorized user includes complementary apparatus and user parts of a wireless communication device, which communicate within a spatial envelope defining a permissible working relationship and communication link for authorizing normal functioning of the apparatus. The system responds to interruption of the communications link with the apparatus inhibited from normal functioning after a delay, as measured in time or distance, that permits a separation to be established between the user and the apparatus, so that if the apparatus is forcibly taken from the authorized user, the user's safety is not jeopardized by the proximity of the non-functional apparatus. Inhibition of functionality may include a vehicle, or any apparatus, becoming immobile or constrained as to maximum operating speed.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2004Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Inventor: Milton Thompson
-
Patent number: 8749346Abstract: A remote control system is for a vehicle including a data communications bus extending therein, and a plurality of vehicle devices communicating over the data communications bus. The system may include a cellular transceiver within the vehicle, and a multi-vehicle controller within the vehicle and coupled to the data communications bus for communication with at least one of the plurality of vehicle devices to perform a remote vehicle function based upon a received remote control signal. The multi-vehicle controller may be enabled to communicate via the data communications bus using a desired set of signals for a corresponding desired vehicle from a plurality of sets of signals for different vehicles based upon learning from at least one of the plurality of vehicle devices on the data communications bus and downloading via the cellular transceiver.Type: GrantFiled: April 1, 2013Date of Patent: June 10, 2014Assignee: Omega Patents, L.L.C.Inventor: Kenneth E. Flick
-
Publication number: 20140152423Abstract: The invention relates to a unit (SYST) for communication by means of a predetermined protocol, said communication unit (SYST) including: a master device (EQ_MAI); and a slave device (EQU_ESC) capable of communicating with a vehicle according to a UHF or BF protocol, and capable of assuming a plurality of states, characterized in that the master device (EQ_MAI) is suitable for sending, to the slave device (EQU_ESC), alerts pertaining to the actuation of a state.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2012Publication date: June 5, 2014Applicant: VALEO SECURITE HABITACLEInventors: Laurent Petel, Eric Menard
-
Patent number: 8744482Abstract: In at least one embodiment, an apparatus for determining a locating a wireless device with respect to a vehicle is provided. The apparatus comprises a controller for being operably coupled to a plurality of antennas in a vehicle and each antenna transmitting a first wireless signal to a wireless device to locate a primary antenna. The primary antenna being one of the plurality of antennas that transmitted the first wireless signal at a strongest signal strength. The controller being configured to store a first signal strength for a first control point that is positioned about the vehicle and away from the primary antenna. The controller being configured to determine the location of the wireless device based on a comparison of the first signal strength to the strongest signal strength.Type: GrantFiled: January 3, 2012Date of Patent: June 3, 2014Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Jordi Virgili Margalef, Sameer Deshpande, Daniel Cirujano Cuesta
-
Patent number: 8738280Abstract: Methods for pedestrian unit (PU) communication activity reduction in pedestrian-to-vehicle communication networks include obtaining safety risk information for a pedestrian at risk for involvement in an accident and using the risk information to adjust a PU communication activity. In some embodiments, the activity reduction is achieved without implementing understanding of surroundings. In other embodiments, the activity reduction is based on risk assessment provided by vehicles. In some embodiments, the activity reduction includes PU transmission reduction. In some embodiments the transmission activity reduction may be followed by reception activity reduction for overall power consumption reduction.Type: GrantFiled: May 10, 2012Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Assignee: Autotalks Ltd.Inventor: Onn Haran
-
Patent number: 8736438Abstract: In general, this disclosure discloses techniques for using a computing device as a smart vehicle key. The computing device may send a validation request signal to a vehicle via a first short-range communication protocol. After to sending the validation request signal, the computing device may establish a secure connection with the vehicle over a second short-range communication protocol. The computing device may send via the secure connection an ignition signal to the vehicle that activates an ignition system operable to activate a motor of the vehicle. The computing device may periodically send via the secure connection a keep-alive message to the vehicle as the motor of the vehicle is running.Type: GrantFiled: January 18, 2013Date of Patent: May 27, 2014Assignee: Google Inc.Inventors: Juan Vasquez, Vinson Mok
-
Patent number: 8730006Abstract: Provided is an engine control unit, which supports an antitheft system outputting, when a key ID registered in a portable device matches an authentication-purpose key ID registered in a receiver, a receiver status signal that contains information indicating that the portable device has been authenticated, and which is initiated in response to an initiating instruction has not been issued from an external, includes: starting control unit for controlling a starting operation of an engine in response to a start permission signal; storage unit registered with an authentication-purpose receiver ID for authenticating the receiver; and antitheft function install/non-install judging unit for judging whether or not the antitheft function is installed to the moving object, in which, when the authentication-purpose receiver ID is not registered in the storage unit and the receiver status signal is not entered, the antitheft function install/non-install judging unit judges that the antitheft function is not installed, anType: GrantFiled: December 31, 2008Date of Patent: May 20, 2014Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric CorporationInventor: Yasuaki Kishimoto
-
Patent number: RE45166Abstract: Vehicle information (e.g., status information, calibratable parameters, or diagnostic data) is transmitted from a base station mounted in a vehicle to a portable RKE fob via a radio-frequency signal within a specified average field strength limit. A multi-byte vehicle message is formed and then coded into a multi-bit coded message. The multi-bit coded message is framed into a plurality of packets. The radio-frequency signal is wirelessly transmitted from the base station with a plurality of spaced packet windows having a predetermined duty cycle, each packet window including a respective one of the plurality of packets. The radio-frequency signal within each of the packet windows has a predetermined field strength greater than the average field strength limit and a substantially zero field strength between the packet windows. The predetermined duty cycle results in an actual average field strength for transmitting all of the packets not exceeding the average field strength limit.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2013Date of Patent: September 30, 2014Assignee: Lear CorporationInventors: Yi Luo, Riad Ghabra, Qingfeng (Tom) Tang