Vehicle Door Patents (Class 340/5.72)
  • Patent number: 8730006
    Abstract: 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, an
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 31, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventor: Yasuaki Kishimoto
  • Patent number: 8723715
    Abstract: The invention is directed to an electric circuit arrangement and to a method to collect and transfer circuit signals, in particular for use in connection with electrical devices. The object of the invention is to provide a circuit arrangement which is cost-effective to implement overall and which offers a high degree of configurability with regard to the positioning or design of switching or input zones.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 13, 2014
    Assignee: Ident Technology AG
    Inventor: Peter Fasshauer
  • Patent number: 8717142
    Abstract: A door lock control apparatus includes a lock switch on an exterior of a vehicle, a controller, and a check device. The controller performs a first key check in response to a lock command inputted through the lock switch. The first key check determines whether an electronic key specific to the vehicle is located outside around the vehicle based on a response from the key. The check device has previously performed a second key check, after the key has been put into a situation in which the key might have been moved from inside to outside the vehicle. The second key check determines whether the key is located inside the vehicle based on the response from the key. The check device stores a result of the second key check as a stored check record, which is then immediately available for checking when the controller responds to an inputted lock command.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Satoshi Nagao, Hironori Mitsubayashi, Daigo Akutsu, Taichi Yamaguchi, Mitsuru Ogawa, Tomoo Kakegawa, Hiroko Murakami, Tomoyuki Funayama
  • Patent number: 8710949
    Abstract: The invention relates to a remote ignition system for a vehicle with a remote ignition control device for activating a remote ignition by providing a release signal, means for detecting a driver's intention to start driving, and an engine control device which comprises the following: a first evaluation unit for evaluating a signal which has been received from the remote ignition control device, a unit coupled to the first evaluation unit for starting of the engine in response to a release signal and for stopping the engine in response to a blocking signal, and a second evaluation unit for evaluating signals which have been received from the means for detecting the intention to start driving.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: Augi AG
    Inventor: Ingo Ledendecker
  • Patent number: 8708396
    Abstract: A system and method is provided to index the door window glass of a vehicle to disengage the glass from the window sealing interface prior to opening the door. A door latch including an unlatching lever selectively connectable to the inside and outside door handles is configured such that moving either handle to actuate the latch causes an initial change in the position of the unlatching lever prior to latch release. A sensor in the latch detects the initial change in position of the unlatching lever and signals an indexing mechanism to move the glass to the indexed position prior to latch release, such that the glass does not substantially interfere with the sealing interface when the door is moved from a closed position. The system may be configured such that the door lock mechanism must be unlocked prior to the indexing mechanism moving the window to an indexed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Jeffrey L. Konchan
  • Publication number: 20140091906
    Abstract: A vehicle remote control system and method are capable of remotely controlling opening and closing a door and/or a trunk of a vehicle. In particular, the method of remotely controlling a vehicle utilizes a remote control key including an operation button for remotely controlling a designated control target of the vehicle, and includes steps of: determining whether communication with the vehicle is possible; and notifying whether the communication with the vehicle is possible.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Publication date: April 3, 2014
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Wan Lee
  • Patent number: 8688330
    Abstract: A first operator control function is activated if it is detected by means of a first sensor that a first physical variable is higher than a predetermined first threshold value. In a similar way, a second operator control function is activated if it is detected by means of a second sensor that a second physical variable is higher than a predetermined second threshold value. A third operator control function is activated if it is detected by means of the first sensor that the first physical variable is higher than a predetermined third threshold value and if at the same time it is detected by means of the second sensor that the second physical variable is higher than a predetermined fourth threshold value, the third threshold value being higher than the first threshold value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignees: Volkswagen Aktiengesellschaft, Hella KGAA Hueck & Co.
    Inventors: Stefan Werner, Lothar Scharwald, Dietmar Grave, Andreas Thiele
  • Patent number: 8686831
    Abstract: A mobile tool facility is provided having a container configured to be moved to a plurality of locations. A portal system is positioned in an interior of the container and spaced from a container end allowing access to the portal system. The portal system is operable to control access into and out of the container. A radio frequency shield wall is positioned in the interior of the container and spaced from the portal system allowing access between the portal system and the shield wall. The shield wall is configured to reduce an amount of electromagnetic energy entering the interior of the container. An auxiliary power unit associated with the container is operable to provide power to the portal system. A plurality of items stored in the interior of the container in a controlled space is available to be removed from the container through the portal system by an authorized individual.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Job Site Resources, LLC
    Inventors: Michael Green, Kevin Hall
  • Patent number: 8688306
    Abstract: Aspects of the present disclosure relate generally to limiting the use of an autonomous or semi-autonomous vehicle by particular occupants based on permission data. More specifically, permission data may include destinations, routes, and/or other information that is predefined or set by a third party. The vehicle may then access the permission data in order to transport the particular occupant to the predefined destination, for example, without deviation from the predefined route. The vehicle may drop the particular occupant off at the destination and may wait until the passenger is ready to move to another predefined destination. The permission data may be used to limit the ability of the particular occupant to change the route of the vehicle completely or by some maximum deviation value. For example, the vehicle may be able to deviate from the route up to a particular distance from or along the route.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2014
    Assignee: Google Inc.
    Inventors: Philip Nemec, Christopher Paul Urmson, Bradley Templeton, Nathaniel Fairfield, Anthony Scott Levandowski
  • Publication number: 20140085049
    Abstract: An automotive communication method includes installing a sensor within a vehicle such that the sensor is submerged in a liquid during operation of the vehicle and/or substantially surrounded by a metallic structure during operation of the vehicle. A long wave magnetic signal is transmitted from the sensor. The signal is indicative of a condition sensed by the sensor. The signal is wirelessly received at a controller disposed within the vehicle. Receipt of the signal at the controller is responded to by adjusting a display and/or a setting within the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Inventors: Vivek Jain, Lakshmi Venkatraman, Thomas Hogenmueller
  • Publication number: 20140077931
    Abstract: Provided are a vehicle remote control key, and a system and a method of remotely controlling a vehicle, the system and method being capable of variably outputting a transmission radio signal so that a remote control distance is controlled for each control target to be operated. In particular, a method of remotely controlling opening or closing of an additional control target of the vehicle through the remote control key includes a function button for remotely controlling a door of the vehicle, the method including: detecting operation of the function button; and transmitting a signal related to the opening or closing of the additional control target with an output set according to an operation time of the function button.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 11, 2012
    Publication date: March 20, 2014
    Applicant: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Seong Hwan Cho
  • Publication number: 20140070921
    Abstract: A near field communication method between a vehicle and a mobile device includes the following steps: establishing a contact between the mobile device and vibration elements, installing vibration elements in a communication device mounted on the vehicle, the vibration elements adapted to emit a predetermined vibratory signal, installing an element for detecting and analyzing vibrations in the mobile device, implementing an authentication procedure between the communication device and the mobile device in which: the communication device of the vehicle emits toward communication elements of the mobile device, a request signal by near field communication and by vibratory signal, and the communication elements of the mobile device emits, in return, a response signal to the vehicle only if it has received a near field signal and a vibratory signal according to a predetermined format. A device for implementing this method is also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 12, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicants: CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE GmbH, CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE FRANCE
    Inventor: Luc JANSSEUNE
  • Publication number: 20140070920
    Abstract: A reliable and secure activation of an access based on a detection of movement in a remote access system by providing a secure method for opening/closing of an access in hands-free access mode. The detection of movement relates to the displacement of a lower member of a user by a remote access system, this access system including at least two elements of detection which each emit a signal whose variations (31, 33, 35) are analyzed. The detection of a movement of a lower member is validated by the application of a double verification step according to parameters (dAsA, dAsB) of a criterion for identification (tA, tB; dAsA, dAsB) of a form of variation (F2; A, B) of each signal (31, 33, 35) with a model form of the movement, and according to a criterion for simultaneity of detection of the forms of variation (F2) identified on the two signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2013
    Publication date: March 13, 2014
    Applicants: CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE GMBH, CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE FRANCE
    Inventors: Olivier ELIE, Maxime CORDIER, Mickael GUIBBERT
  • Patent number: 8659387
    Abstract: A function for authenticating an operator to control whether to permit them to operate a vehicle (20) can be added to the vehicle by simple modification. An operation permission control device (22) is installed on the vehicle (20). The operation permission control device (22) incorporates a relay inserted in the middle of a start signal line (47) connecting a key switch (46) and vehicle start circuit (48) (starter relay of an engine-powered vehicle or main controller of a battery-powered vehicle) and can open and close the start signal line (47). The operation permission control device (22) reads data of a authentication card (34) carried by the operator, collates the read data with preprogrammed data in a removable set memory a (32). If the data match, the device connects the start signal line (47) to enable start of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignees: Komatsu Utility Co., Ltd., Komatsu Ltd.
    Inventors: Shigeru Nitta, Hajime Iida, Manabu Uenosono, Takeshi Kurokawa, Shinichiro Okubo, Kazuaki Ohtsuki
  • Patent number: 8659388
    Abstract: A wireless communication system is provided. The communication system comprises a key fob comprising a wireless transmitter adapted to transmit a first signal having a first transmission field strength and first transmission duration, and a second signal having a second transmission field strength and second transmission duration and a vehicle comprising a wireless receiver adapted to receive the first and second signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2014
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: William A. Biondo, David T. Proefke
  • Publication number: 20140043140
    Abstract: Provided is an electronic key in which a waterproof rubber can be prevented from getting damaged at the time of assembling various parts into an upper case. This electronic key includes: upper case (10) and lower case (20) that fit together and seal the interior thereof; inner case (30) covered by upper case (10) and lower case (20) and having, on the lower-surface side thereof, battery (39) that drives an electronic circuit performing communication with the exterior; waterproof rubber (40) covering the upper-surface side of inner case (30); upper-case projection (18) that projects from the inner wall of upper case (10); and waterproof-rubber outer-wall recess (45) that is recessed in the outer wall surface of waterproof rubber (40) and receives upper-case projection (18). A space is provided between upper-case projection (18) and waterproof-rubber outer-wall recess (45).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Applicant: PANASONIC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Shigeru Nakabayashi, Koichi Sasaki
  • Publication number: 20140043139
    Abstract: An apparatus for performing a desired vehicle function is provided. The apparatus comprises a base station configured to receive a command signal indicative of the desired vehicle function while in a receive mode. The base station is further configured to determine whether the received command signal includes at least one of a second data component from a plurality of second data components and to activate a transmit mode in the event the received command signal includes the at least one of the second data component. The base station is further configured to determine whether the received command signal includes at least one additional second data component from the plurality of second data components while in the transmit mode and to determine that the portable device is positioned within a predetermined range in the event the received command signal includes the at least one additional second data component.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2012
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Applicant: LEAR CORPORATION
    Inventors: Stephen Humphrey, Riad Ghabra, Matthew Ryan Honkanen, Ronald O. King
  • Patent number: 8648692
    Abstract: Accessing an automobile with a transponder is disclosed. A processor may determine if the transponder is within range and receive a signal with an identification code from the transponder. If the identification code is valid, user information for the automobile based on the identification code are retrieved. The processor may also process spoken commands if the identification code is valid.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Seong Sang Investments LLC
    Inventor: Richard B. Himmelstein
  • Patent number: 8648693
    Abstract: A key slot capable of accommodating an auxiliary key, which is a vehicle key other than a master key. A key lock mechanism locks or unlocks movement of the auxiliary key in the key slot, thereby allowing the auxiliary key to be taken out of the key slot in accordance with a lending condition of the auxiliary key. An invalid key return prevention unit permits the auxiliary key to be returned to the key slot in accordance with a return condition of the auxiliary key. If the return condition is met, the invalid key return prevention unit causes the key lock mechanism to lock the auxiliary key in the key slot. If the return condition is not met, the invalid key return prevention unit does not allow the auxiliary key to be returned to the key slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2014
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventor: Hiroshi Tsuruta
  • Publication number: 20140015640
    Abstract: A device (D?) for detecting presence of a user includes: a connection to the electrical ground (14), an electrode (12), control elements (13?) of the electrode, a conducting element (11), connected to the connection (14) to the electrical ground, a first switching element (I1) between the conducting element and the connection to the electrical ground, first element (16) for selecting the position of the first switching element, in order to select the position of the first switching element as a function of the type of coating covering a second exterior surface of a handle into which the device is integrated. The door handle including the device and the associated method for configuring the handle are also described.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 12, 2013
    Publication date: January 16, 2014
    Inventors: Xavier HOURNE, Cyril ROBIN, Joel CARNIAUX
  • Patent number: 8626357
    Abstract: A method for applying driver preference settings for a vehicle includes transmitting an exterior signal from at least one closure antenna. The method further includes determining whether a valid response signal was received in response to the transmitted exterior search signal. The valid response signal includes a respective ID code unique to a fob that transmitted the valid response signal. Upon determining that a valid response signal was received, the method further includes determining whether a door switch flag allows for changing of a driver preference setting. Upon determining that the door switch flag allows for changing the driver preference setting, the method includes assigning the driver preference setting based on the respective ID code in the received response signal. The assigned driver preference setting includes at least one of a vehicle seat setting, a rearview mirror setting, a side view mirror setting, a radio station setting, and an HVAC setting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2014
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Brian K. Lickfelt
  • Patent number: 8618908
    Abstract: In one embodiment, providing an endpoint access to a locked target includes receiving a virtual key at a grantee endpoint through a wireless link. The virtual key results from a permission from a grantor endpoint, and is operable to unlock a physical lock of the target. The virtual key is wirelessly transmitted to a management system of the target to unlock the lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Cisco Technology, Inc.
    Inventors: Shmuel Shaffer, Ramanathan T. Jagadeesan, Bich T. Nguyen, Gregory D. Pelton, Labhesh Patel
  • Patent number: 8620490
    Abstract: A smart entry system for a vehicle having a lockable trunk is provided. The smart entry system includes portable devices, an onboard transmitter for transmitting request signals to the portable devices, an onboard receiver for receiving identification signals from the portable devices, and a trunk lockout protection feature. The trunk lockout protection feature is configured to receive a command signal to either initiate a trunk lockout protection sequence to unlock the trunk in the event that one of the portable devices is locked in the trunk or to disable the trunk lockout protection sequence to permit the trunk to remain in a locked state in the event that one of the portable devices is locked in the trunk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Brian K. Lickfelt, Shinichi Ueda, Katsuyasu Yamane, Takashi Mori, Masashi Sugita
  • Patent number: 8614622
    Abstract: Various embodiments may include methods and system for enabling an authorized vehicle driveaway. A vehicle driveaway authorization code for authorizing a vehicle to be driven and a user authorization code that corresponds to the vehicle driveaway authorization code may be generated. The codes may be generated by, for example, at least one server configured to generate the authorization codes. The at least one server may be communicating with a nomadic device and a vehicle driveaway authorization system. A vehicle driveaway request signal may be received. In response to a receipt of the vehicle driveaway request signal, the vehicle driveaway authorization code may be transmitted to the vehicle driveaway authorization system and the user authorization code may be transmitted to the nomadic device for input to the vehicle driveaway authorization system in order to enable the vehicle to be driven.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 24, 2013
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: John Robert Van Wiemeersch, Robert Bruce Kleve, Kevin Thomas Hille
  • Patent number: 8598983
    Abstract: A transceiver is disclosed. The transceiver includes: a circuit board; a receiving antenna mounted to the circuit board; and a transmitting antenna mounted to the receiving antenna. The receiving antenna includes: a supporter; a coil antenna having a coil wound around the supporter; a first terminal arranged on the supporter and connected with the coil antenna; and a second terminals arranged on the supporter. The transmitting antenna includes: a horizontal part extending in a direction perpendicular to a thickness direction of the circuit board; and a vertical part extending in the thickness direction of the circuit board. The vertical part is connected with the horizontal part and the second terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventor: Takayuki Hattori
  • Patent number: 8590210
    Abstract: An electric window lifter of a vehicle with a vehicle door having a frameless window is actuated according to a novel, low-wear actuation method. An entry signal is acquired that allows a conclusion to be drawn about whether a person has entered through this vehicle door. In this case, the window pane that is associated with the window of this given vehicle door is lowered by a short stroke by way of the window lifter in response to a central exit signal only when the entry signal was first identified. The window lifter or power window assembly includes an associated actuation unit with a query module that is configured for automatically carrying out the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2013
    Assignee: Brose Fahrzeugteile GmbH & Co. Kommanditgesellschaft, Hallstadt
    Inventors: Thomas Schindhelm, Christian Vetter
  • Patent number: 8588995
    Abstract: A vehicle control device mounted on a vehicle for performing communication with a mobile device and performing predetermined control in accordance with communication contents with the mobile device, having a locking operation unit that locks or unlocks doors of the vehicle, interior signal transmitting and receiving units that detect a position of the mobile device left in an interior of the vehicle in a case where a locking operation is performed by the locking operation unit, and an interior lamp drive control unit that lights an interior lamp among a plurality of interior lamps provided in the interior of the vehicle, the interior lamp being close to the position of the mobile device based on information of the position detected by the interior signal transmitting and receiving units.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 29, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Assignee: Omron Automotive Electronics Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Tatsuki Nagata
  • Patent number: 8579481
    Abstract: A door handle apparatus for a vehicle is provided. The door handle includes a door handle body that is configured to be disposed at a door of the vehicle. A light source is mounted inside the door handle body. A light-transmitting member is located between the light source and the door handle body. The light-transmitting member is partially exposed to an exterior of the door handle body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Aisin Technical Center of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Adam Minter, Michael Wlotkowski, Sadayuki Makino, Katsuhisa Yamada
  • Patent number: 8581713
    Abstract: A geo-fence is defined and established automatically based on a current location of an asset along with some range or distance, avoiding the need for a user to manually specify a location by drawing a perimeter, specifying a point location, or by any other means. Once established, the geo-fence can be activated so as to notify the owner of the asset and/or some other entity of movement of the asset beyond the boundary specified by the geo-fence. In one embodiment, the geo-fence can be automatically activated upon certain conditions, or can be manually activated, or any combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Gordon*Howard Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald A. Morgan, Stanley G. Schwarz
  • Patent number: 8576047
    Abstract: A motor vehicle outside door handle with a wall surrounding an interior space, a first sensor electrode of a first capacitive sensor for triggering a final locking operation, a second sensor electrode of a second capacitive sensor for triggering a locking operation, and an evaluation circuit, which is connected to the first sensor electrode. The second sensor electrode is arranged in the interior space. The first sensor electrode, the second sensor electrode and the evaluation circuit are accommodated in a single sensor module which can be inserted into the interior space. The sensor module has a flat plastic trough which has a bottom wall and is open on one side. A printed circuit board provided with connecting cables is placed into the plastic trough filled with a plastics compound. The sensor electrodes are formed by metal-coated layers of the printed circuit board or by metal bodies mounted on the printed circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Huf Hulsbeck & Furst GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Andreas Peschl, Stefan Neuhoff, Marion Kilian
  • Patent number: 8570145
    Abstract: The present invention is concerned with a security system. The system may comprise at least a first handheld device, a second handheld device, a first secure entity, and a second secure entity. The first handheld device and the first secure entity are electronically pre-registered with each other, the first handheld device and the second secure entity are electronically pre-registered with each other, the second handheld device and the first secure entity are electronically pre-registered with each other, and the second handheld device and the second secure entity are electronically pre-registered with each other, with pre-registration of each respective handheld device and secure entity pair establishing a unique channel for the respective handheld device and secure entity pair.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Inventors: Jonson Chung-shun Au, Melvin Sik Yu Li
  • Patent number: 8570147
    Abstract: A debounce strategy is disclosed for use with a switch detection circuit to validate whether the switch is properly actuated or whether interferences, switch bounce, or other interruptions are presenting indications of switch activation. The debounce strategy may be implemented in a multi-stage process so that systems relying on debounce validation can begin processing, or other so that other time depending operations begin processing, prior to completing debounce validation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2013
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Hilton W. Girard, III, Keith A. Christenson
  • Publication number: 20130271262
    Abstract: 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: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2013
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventor: KENNETH E. FLICK
  • Patent number: 8552867
    Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is coupled to a circuit board to track the specific operating and environmental conditions of each stage as the circuit board passes through one or more manufacturing and/or post-manufacturing stages. An RFID reader and data collector are used at each stage to read the RFID tag and store its identifying information along with processing information, operating conditions, and results for each stage. This permits to quickly and accurately collect manufacturing and post-manufacturing information for each circuit board at various stages as well as the operating conditions for each stage at a particular time. Such manufacturing and/or post-manufacturing metrics can then be retrieved on a stage-by-stage basis for a particular circuit board by an identifier associated with the circuit board.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Sanmina-SCI Corporation
    Inventors: Rony Shachar, Srivats Ramaswami, David Anderson
  • Patent number: 8550364
    Abstract: A card key includes a circuit board and a plate-shaped key body. The circuit board is mounted with electronic parts that configure an electronic circuit for performing radio communication with an on-vehicle device. The key body is mounted with the circuit board which is covered with a resin material. The key body has a principal front surface on the side of which the electronic parts are mounted, and has a main body recess sunk to a predetermined depth level from the principal front surface and a key component accommodating recess further sunk to a level deeper than the main body recess and opened in a bottom surface of the main body recess. The key body forms an outline of the card key together with a sheet body fitted to the main body recess. The key component accommodating portion is formed between the sheet body and the key component accommodating recess.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Keiichi Sugimoto, Mitsuru Nakagawa
  • Publication number: 20130257591
    Abstract: A vehicle controller installed in and controlling a vehicle includes an obtaining part that obtains identification information specific to the vehicle, a communicator that communicates with an information processor located outside the vehicle by transmitting and receiving information, a match judging part that makes a matching judgment on whether a plurality of the identification information obtained at different times are identical, and a judging part that judges whether to permit the control of the vehicle based on the matching judgment. The information processor also can make the matching judgment and only transmit a control command to the vehicle controller when there is a match.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: FUJITSU TEN LIMITED
    Inventors: Ryuji NISHIMURA, Akira TAKEE, Shingo TAGUCHI, Takeshi SAKAMOTO, Tetsuya NOMURA, Satoshi HARUMOTO
  • Patent number: 8547253
    Abstract: A method of indicating a proximity value representative of the distance between a key fob (202) and a vehicle (102) includes transmitting (304, 406, 504) at least one locate signal from the key fob (202) to the vehicle (102), transmitting (364, 468, 562) at least one response signal from the vehicle (102) to the key fob (202) in response to the at least one locate signal, performing (362, 462, 510) RSSI measurements of either the at least one locate signal or the at least one response signal, and displaying (318, 412, 514) the proximity value on the key fob (202) based on the RSSI measurements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: David T. Proefke, Clark E. McCall, William A. Biondo, Robert V. Lust
  • Patent number: 8542092
    Abstract: A vehicle ignition system includes a fob for transmitting an identification code. The fob includes a low frequency transceiver circuit and low frequency antenna. An ignition module is provided including, a housing, switch contacts and a push button slidably mounted in the housing and arranged so that pushing of said button closes said switch contacts. A LF coil is provided and is axially stationary within the housing and is located inside of the push button. An ignition module circuit provides power to the fob and establishes low frequency communications with the fob via the LF coil. An immobilizer circuit is operatively coupled to the ignition module for permitting or preventing actuation of the ignition system in response to the low frequency communications with the fob and the ignition module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2013
    Assignee: TRW Automotive U.S. LLC
    Inventors: Paul Lumley, Mike Blossfeld, Luis Fernando Sanchez
  • Publication number: 20130234828
    Abstract: A sensor unit is provided that is not susceptible to errors for contactlessly actuating a vehicle door. The sensor unit includes a first proximity sensor and a second proximity sensor. Each of the two proximity sensors has an elongate detection field extending substantially in a Y direction. The detection fields of the two proximity sensors are spaced from one another in a direction perpendicular to the Y direction. In addition, the detection field of the first proximity sensor projects beyond the detection field of the second proximity sensor in the Y direction at least on one side by a projecting length.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 26, 2013
    Publication date: September 12, 2013
    Applicant: Brose Fahrzeugteile GmbH & Co. KG, Hallstadt
    Inventors: Frank Holzberg, Karl Schneider
  • Patent number: 8531269
    Abstract: An automatic locking apparatus which is installed in a vehicle, communicates with a portable-unit in areas inside/outside the vehicle, and automatically locks doors, based on whether a response-signal is received from the portable-unit and opening/closing of the doors. The apparatus includes a door-opening/closing-detecting-unit, an inside-of-vehicle-determining-unit forming a communication-area inside the vehicle when one door changes from the opened-state to the closed-state, and determining whether the response-signal is received, an outside-of-vehicle-determining-unit forming a communication-area outside the vehicle when the response-signal is not received, and determining whether the response-signal is received, a locking-control-unit automatically locking the doors when the response-signal is received, when all the doors are closed and presence-of-reception is changed to absence-of-reception, and a storing-unit storing history-information indicating that the response-signal is received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventors: Satoshi Nagao, Kazunari Nakamura, Hironori Mitsubayashi, Mitsuru Ogawa
  • Patent number: 8531268
    Abstract: A passive entry system for an automotive vehicle may include a token capable of receiving a plurality of wireless signals. The token may generate a response signal to at least one of the plurality of wireless signals and reconfigure so that the token does not provide a response to at least one of the plurality of wireless signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2013
    Assignee: Lear Corporation
    Inventors: Riad Ghabra, Ehab Abdulla Tarmoom
  • Patent number: 8525641
    Abstract: A vehicular electronic key system includes a vehicle having a key cylinder and a portable device. The portable devise includes a key body and a mechanical key. The key body is communicatable with the vehicle. The mechanical key is attachable to and detachable from the key body and mechanically rotates the key cylinder whereby the communication between the vehicle and the portable device allows the vehicle to execute predetermined functions. The key body includes a key detector configured to detect an attachment state and a detachment state of the mechanical key to and from the key body so that the key body transitions to a valet mode to limit some of the predetermined functions executable by the vehicle in accordance with the communication between the vehicle and the portable device while the key detector detects the detachment state of the mechanical key from the key body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Katsuyasu Yamane, Shinichi Ueda, Shinichi Arie
  • Patent number: 8514055
    Abstract: A vehicle for cargo handling is equipped with a storage unit for storing a password, a password input unit, and a control unit for controlling selection of a normal operating mode with no restrictions on travel capability or cargo handling capability, an emergency operating mode where at least the travel capability of the vehicle is restricted, and a travel prohibited mode where neither the normal operating mode nor the emergency operating mode is selected. The control unit determines whether password entry is required when the vehicle is powered on and controls selection of the normal operating mode when password entry is required or when a correct password is entered, the emergency operating mode when emergency operation is indicated, or the travel prohibited mode when the normal and emergency operating modes are not selected within a predetermined specific amount of time or within a specific number of times of operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Naoki Ishikawa
  • Patent number: 8514053
    Abstract: An anti-theft system for a vehicle that registers ID information at the time of replacement of a lock controller. A portable device, such as a key, has exclusive ID information. A lock controller locks or unlocks a control target device according to an authentication result of the portable device. An auxiliary controller transmits and receives data to and from the lock controller and stores the ID information of the portable device as backup data. The lock controller receives the ID information from the auxiliary controller, and transmits a response requiring signal for searching the portable device which has the ID information received from the auxiliary controller and is present within a predetermined detection range. Then, the lock controller stores the ID information of the portable device which has transmitted a response signal to the response requiring signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Sachio Ito
  • Patent number: 8511121
    Abstract: A key holding device includes a key cylinder capable of retaining an auxiliary key which is a vehicle key that is not a master key. A rotor is rotatably arranged in the key cylinder. The auxiliary key is insertable into the rotor. A tumbler is rotatable with the rotor in the key cylinder. The tumbler holds the auxiliary key in a manner irremovable from the key cylinder in accordance with the rotational position of the rotor. A key lock mechanism is capable of locking the rotor in a state in which the tumbler holds the auxiliary key in a manner irremovable from the key cylinder. A control unit selectively switches the rotor between a locked state and an unlocked state by controlling the key lock mechanism so as to permit removal of the auxiliary key when the rotor is in the unlocked state.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2013
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki Seisakusho
    Inventor: Hiroshi Tsuruta
  • Patent number: 8508349
    Abstract: A geo-fence is defined and established automatically based on a current location of an asset along with some range or distance, avoiding the need for a user to manually specify a location by drawing a perimeter, specifying a point location, or by any other means. Once established, the geo-fence can be activated so as to notify the owner of the asset and/or some other entity of movement of the asset beyond the boundary specified by the geo-fence. In one embodiment, the geo-fence can be automatically activated upon certain conditions, or can be manually activated, or any combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Gordon*Howard Associates, Inc.
    Inventors: Gerald A. Morgan, Stanley G. Schwarz
  • Publication number: 20130194069
    Abstract: Method for determining spurious contacts on a contact detection sensor for a handle of an automobile door, the sensor defining a locking area and being connected to an onboard electronic locking and unlocking system, includes: a) detecting a contact on the locking area when, for an engagement time of the locking mechanism, the number of charge transfers from the sensor is less than a threshold number of charge transfers, b) evaluating the number of charge transfers, starting from the time of the minimum value of the number of measured charge transfers and for an evaluation time in order to distinguish detections of contacts made by the user from detections of spurious contacts, c) if the contact detections are spurious, matching the threshold number of charge transfers in order to be able to detect any next contact originating from the user on the locking area in the presence of spurious contacts.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 9, 2011
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicants: CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE GMBH, CONTINENTAL AUTOMOTIVE FRANCE
    Inventors: Stephan Baudru, Maxime Cordier, Olivier Elie, Xavier Hourne
  • Patent number: 8493193
    Abstract: An anti theft locking system for the cargo carrying portion of a truck, trailer, shipping container, and/or railcar having at least one access door. The anti theft locking mechanism and associated signal processing means for locking the access door are all located entirely within the cargo carrying portion and cannot be accessed from outside. The locking mechanism can be locked in response to a coded locking signal generated from the exterior of the cargo carrying portion. The locking mechanism can be unlocked in response to a coded unlocking signal generated from a remote location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 28, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Inventors: Jean Ramy Louis, Milton L. Hultberg, William J. Seeber
  • Patent number: 8493177
    Abstract: Various systems, devices, and methods for communicating vehicle information from a vehicle to a keyless entry device are provided. The system may include a keyless entry device for communicating vehicle information from a vehicle to a user. The keyless entry device may include a haptic actuator and one or more processors that may establish a communication channel with a vehicle, communicate, via the communication channel, a command to the vehicle, receive a response to the command from the vehicle, and cause the haptic actuator to output a first haptic effect based on the response. The vehicle may include a vehicle device that may obtain vehicle information that relates to a vehicle, determine and output a control signal that corresponds to the vehicle information. The control signal may cause the keyless entry device to output a first haptic effect that haptically communicates the vehicle information to the user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: Immersion Corporation
    Inventors: Natasha Margaret Minenko Flaherty, David M. Birnbaum
  • Patent number: 8493175
    Abstract: A vehicle authentication control device has a first, second, and third determination units, and a registration unit. When identification information unique to a vehicle is registered in both a portable device and an authentication device on the vehicle, the first determination unit matches first identification information returned from the portable device in response to a request from the authentication device and second identification information registered in the authentication device to determine whether a combination of the portable device and the authentication device is legitimate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: OMRON Corporation
    Inventors: Takahiro Sakuma, Tomoko Onoda