Vehicle Door Patents (Class 340/5.72)
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Patent number: 8022808Abstract: A vehicle equipped with a passive key entry system may employ a method of controlling a vehicle power sliding door(s) or other door(s), to accomplish locking, unlocking, opening and closing of such doors. A switch on a door handle may be activated by a physical touch or touches of a user, after which, the method may proceed with inquiring and confirming if all vehicle doors are closed; inquiring and confirming if all vehicle doors are locked; inquiring and confirming if a valid passive entry key is exterior to and within range of the vehicle; unlocking a power sliding door with a lock motor; and opening the power sliding door with a door motor. Before actually performing a door opening, closing or locking, a passive entry key system on the vehicle may verify the presence of a passive entry key fob.Type: GrantFiled: October 1, 2007Date of Patent: September 20, 2011Assignee: DENSO International America, Inc.Inventors: Christopher Kurpinski, Thomas Keeling, Justin McBride, Toshihiro Wakamatsu, Michael Wiegand
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Patent number: 8018329Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: December 12, 2008Date of Patent: September 13, 2011Assignee: Gordon * Howard Associates, Inc.Inventors: Gerald A. Morgan, Stanley G. Schwarz
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Publication number: 20110215921Abstract: A method and apparatus for wireless authentication, secure automatic access to application and to systems and for providing an alarm to users upon detecting that a monitored device is not within a desired proximity using a BLUETOOTH apparatus are described.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 22, 2009Publication date: September 8, 2011Inventors: Mourad Ben Ayed, Abderrahman Ben Ayed
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Patent number: 8009410Abstract: In at least one embodiment, a keyfob assembly comprising a housing and a battery chamber is provided. The housing includes a plurality of electrical components positioned therein for transmitting radio frequency (RF) signals to a vehicle. The battery chamber is positioned within the housing and includes at least one removable battery operably coupled to the electrical components for powering the electrical components. The battery chamber is capable of being slideably removed from the housing to facilitate battery exchange.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2009Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignee: Lear Corporation GmbHInventors: Frank Goemmel, John Burca
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Patent number: 8009023Abstract: An access arrangement for a vehicle (FZ) has a transmit/receive device on the vehicle side (19) to transmit one or several interrogation signals. In addition, the access arrangement has a mobile identification generator (IDI, IDA) with a transmit/receive device on the identification generator side (SE) to receive interrogation signals from the transmit/receive device on the vehicle side and to evaluate signal characteristics of the interrogation signals at at least two different points in time. The mobile identification generator furthermore has a control device (ST) to output a different control command depending on a change (?FS, ?FR) in the evaluated signal characteristics. In the event of no change or a small change in the signal characteristics, a signal may be output to deactivate the identification generator, while in the event of a marked change a locking signal to lock a door (TFZ) of the vehicle may be output.Type: GrantFiled: September 11, 2007Date of Patent: August 30, 2011Assignee: Continental Automotive GmbHInventors: Nikolas Bergerhoff, Herbert Froitzheim, Thomas Klement, Wolfgang Piesch, Roland Wagner
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Publication number: 20110205018Abstract: An input apparatus for a vehicle includes: an operation element operable by an occupant of the vehicle; a biological information acquisition element acquiring biological information of the occupant; an unawakened state detection element detecting an unawakened state of the occupant based on the biological information, wherein the unawakened state is defined by a predetermined state different from an awakened state; and an operation disabling element disabling an operation input from the operation element when the unawakened state detection element detects the unawakened state.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 3, 2011Publication date: August 25, 2011Applicant: DENSO CORPORATIONInventors: Hidekazu Oohashi, Kazuya Enami
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Patent number: 7999655Abstract: A communication system that controls the disabling and enabling of a communication function in a communication portion of a portable device in accordance with whether the communication function of the portable device is disabled or enabled. The communication system includes a selection device for selecting a disablement mode, which disables automatic communication of the portable device with respect to a communication controller, and a communication mode, which enables automatic communication of the portable device. A determination unit recognizes which one of the disablement mode and the communication mode the portable device is in to determine whether to enable or disable automatic communication with respect to the portable device in accordance with the recognition. A recognition information providing device provides the determination unit with recognition information used to recognize which one of the disablement mode and the communication mode the portable device is in.Type: GrantFiled: November 18, 2003Date of Patent: August 16, 2011Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki SeisakushoInventor: Fumitaka Yoshikawa
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Publication number: 20110187498Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: January 29, 2010Publication date: August 4, 2011Inventors: Natasha Margaret Minenko Flaherty, David M. Birnbaum
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Patent number: 7986215Abstract: A method for selectively controlling a security system comprises receiving a tag identification, determining a security identification based on the tag identification, and transmitting a message comprising the security identification and a security system command. A security system having a unique security identification comprises a control device for controlling the security system, wherein the control device transmits a message to the security system comprising the unique security identification and a function command, the control device comprising keypad for entering a tag identification corresponding to the unique security identification.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2008Date of Patent: July 26, 2011Assignee: Audiovox CorporationInventors: Ryan Beehler, Joseph Dentamaro, Ryan Edwards, Michael Schroeder, David Showalter, Peter Stouffer, Shane Wilson
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Patent number: 7984937Abstract: A door handle apparatus for a vehicle includes a door handle including an outer side handle portion formed with a grip portion, a rotating portion rotatably supported by a supporting member, an operating portion operating a door opening and closing mechanism, and an encasement accommodating electronic components, an unlock electrode accommodated in the encasement and configuring an unlock capacitive sensor detecting changes of an electric capacity between the unlock electrode and the outer panel, an unlock signal circuit transmitting an unlock signal based on the changes of the electric capacity between the unlock electrode and the outer panel, and a lock electrode provided between an end of the grip portion at the side of the rotating portion and the rotating portion and configuring a lock capacitive sensor detecting the changes of the electric capacity.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 2007Date of Patent: July 26, 2011Assignee: Aisin Seiki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Tetsurou Tanimoto, Koichi Nagata, Eiji Mushiake
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Patent number: 7978049Abstract: A time-of-flight ranging system, such as a keyless access Control system, comprises a first part and a second part, e.g., a portable device such as a key fob. Both parts have a transceiver for effecting communication with each other. At least the first part includes a device, e.g., a processor, for determining the distance between the two parts based on time-off-light. To save power, when the two parts are a relatively great distance apart, a time-of-flight measuring device computes the time based on a relatively coarse algorithm, and when the parts are relatively close, the computation is carried-out using a more precise algorithm. The clock frequency may be reduced when the two parts are a relatively great distance apart, and increased when they are closer. Further the transmitter power may be reduced when the two parts are relatively close together and increased when they are a relatively great distance apart.Type: GrantFiled: July 6, 2005Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventor: Adam S. Leitch
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Publication number: 20110148573Abstract: A passive entry system and method for determining the location of a remote transmitter positioned near a vehicle. The system and method may include an irregularly shaped authorization zone. The authorization zone may be formed using as least three LF antennas. Alternatively, at least two antennas may be used to form at least one elliptically shaped authorization zone. A controller may determine the location of the fob when the fob is physically positioned within the authorization zone.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2009Publication date: June 23, 2011Applicant: Lear CorporationInventors: Riad Ghabra, Nikolay Yakovenko, Hilton W. (Jerry) Girard, III
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Publication number: 20110148575Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: December 22, 2010Publication date: June 23, 2011Applicant: MAGNA MIRRORS OF AMERICA, INC.Inventors: Justin E. Sobecki, Keith D. Foote
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Patent number: 7961076Abstract: Methods, systems, and media for remote control of a vehicle device and vehicle lockout notification are disclosed. Embodiments comprise a method of creating a secure bidirectional communication link between a remote access device and a central locking unit (CLU) of a vehicle, enabling the central locking unit to authenticate a user of the remote access device to manipulate a device of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the CLU may wait for an access attempt from a mobile device. In other embodiments, the CLU monitor vehicle conditions, detect a lockout condition, and alert the user before authenticating and granting vehicle access. Embodiments utilize private and shared key encryption methods to facilitate securely passing an access code between the CLU and the remote access device. Some embodiments authenticate the user by voice verification, while other embodiments may use personal identification numbers.Type: GrantFiled: February 28, 2006Date of Patent: June 14, 2011Assignee: International Business Machines CorporationInventors: Nia L. Kelley, Guillermo J. Silva
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Patent number: 7956726Abstract: A radio operating system, in particular for a medical device, comprises: a radio base station, provided for control of a device, an operating unit, for establishment of a radio connection with the radio base station, whereby the operating unit comprises a controller with a first threshold value (S1) relating to a reception parameter (K), depending on which a switching between various operational modes (B0, B1) for the operating unit is provided. On dropping below the threshold value (S1), a safety-oriented operating mode (B0) and, on exceeding the threshold value (S1), a standard operating mode for the operating element (3), are provided. A first non-safety-critical command set (BS1) may be activated by the operating unit and equally used in the various operating modes (B0, B1), a second safety-critical command set (BS2), activated by means of the operating unit, may be used in the safety-oriented operating mode (B0) in a limited manner in comparison to the standard operating mode (B1).Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 2004Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Robert Kagermeier, Donal Medlar, Dietmar Sierk
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Patent number: 7956721Abstract: An operator system and related methods for automatically controlling access barriers which include a base controller associated with at least one access barrier and at least one base receiver associated with the base controller. The system also includes a mobile transmitter configured to be carried by a carrying device, such as a vehicle. The mobile transmitter automatically and periodically generates a mobile signal received by the base receiver. The base controller selectively generates barrier movement commands upon receipt of the at least one mobile signal. Furthermore, the mobile transmitter includes an accelerometer to detect when the carrying device is moving so as to selectively turn the mobile transmitter on and off in order to conserver power.Type: GrantFiled: January 9, 2007Date of Patent: June 7, 2011Assignee: Homerun Holdings CorporationInventor: Jason L. Mamaloukas
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Patent number: 7948358Abstract: In a vehicle anti-theft system including an immobilizer system and a keyless entry system provided adjacent to a key cylinder, an immobilizer system antenna (5) is insert molded in an annular member (3) surrounding a key opening (2) of the key cylinder and a keyless entry system antenna (9) is incorporated in a housing (6, 7) which is integrally formed with the annular member. Thereby, the immobilizer system antenna and keyless entry system antenna can be accommodated in a common unit while suitably spacing them away from each other. Therefore, without requiring any special shielding arrangement, the two antennal can perform favorably while the overall size of the system can be minimized.Type: GrantFiled: May 9, 2006Date of Patent: May 24, 2011Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Honda LockInventors: Osamu Hidaka, Kimiharu Mishima, Makoto Honkawa
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Patent number: 7937893Abstract: The invention is a sliding door assembly operable move a vehicle door between an open and a closed position. The assembly includes a motor, reversibly operable to move the door towards one of the open and the closed position. A handle is mounted to the door and a handle sensor is provided, operable to detect the grasping of the handle. When the handle is grasped, a controller activates the motor to move the door when the handle sensor is triggered. Moving the door using the handle by at least a predetermined distance causes the controller to deactivate the motor, allowing manual movement of the door.Type: GrantFiled: August 21, 2007Date of Patent: May 10, 2011Assignee: Magna Closures Inc.Inventor: Mirko Pribisic
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Patent number: 7931314Abstract: A vehicle door outer handle system is provided in which a pair of electrodes and a circuit board on which is provided a detection circuit for detecting a change in capacitance between the electrodes are housed within an operating handle formed from a handle main body and a cover covering the outer side of the handle main body, the operating handle being disposed on an outer side of a vehicle door, and the electrodes (43) being patterned on the circuit board (44), the operating handle thereby being made thin.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2004Date of Patent: April 26, 2011Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Honda LockInventors: Masakatsu Nitawaki, Hiroto Fujiwara, Osamu Hidaka, Yuho Otsuta, Masahiko Sueyoshi
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Patent number: 7928829Abstract: In a method for controlling access to a vehicle (FZ), first an authentication signal is sent from the vehicle to an authorized mobile ID transmitter (IDG), with which authentication signal the ID transmitter is authorized to unlock the vehicle. Subsequently, the distance from the valid authorized mobile ID transmitter to the vehicle is determined. Finally, an unlock signal (ES) is transmitted from the valid authorized mobile ID transmitter to the vehicle, if the distance from the ID transmitter to the vehicle is less than a predetermined first proximity distance (ANRE). In this way an efficient control of access to a vehicle is achieved, wherein the mobile ID transmitter automatically unlocks the vehicle when a certain proximity to the vehicle is identified.Type: GrantFiled: September 6, 2007Date of Patent: April 19, 2011Assignee: Continental Automotive GmbHInventor: Stefan Hermann
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Publication number: 20110086668Abstract: A mobile telephone capable of controlling a remote keyless system is provided. The mobile telephone is loaded with an executable program that enables the mobile telephone to control the remote keyless system using frequencies and systems already used by the remote keyless system. The complex functionality a mobile telephone allows the executable program to fully control remote keyless systems.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 14, 2009Publication date: April 14, 2011Inventor: Dipam Patel
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Publication number: 20110080258Abstract: The present invention is a new type of luxury automobile which would implement numerous ergonomically designed innovations which would deter various criminal activities which would include car theft, carjacking, and driving under the influence. Identity is a security mechanism installed on car doors that requires a fingerprint scan prior to the keypad being revealed. If the fingerprint scan is not recognized the keypad is not revealed and access to the vehicle is denied. Identity would be installed during the manufacturing of the vehicle or can be utilized by existing vehicles. Fingerprint scans would be programmed by the individual or individuals who will be authorized to entry. More than one fingerprint scan could be programmed into identity. Anyone authorized to drive the vehicle could have their fingerprint scanned. Identity only recognizes the authorized, programmed fingerprint scans.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 8, 2010Publication date: April 7, 2011Inventor: Kim R. Curtis
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Publication number: 20110080259Abstract: An antenna system may include a first antenna having a helical shaped portion, and configured to receive signals over a first frequency range. A second antenna may be positioned in proximate distance from the first antenna, and be configured to receive signals over a second frequency range. A splitter may be configured for separating signals received from radio and remote keyless entry antennas and may include a first branch including a first filter to filter AM band signals from communications signals received from an antenna, a second branch including a second filter to filter FM band signals from communications signals received from the antenna, a third branch including a third filter to filter remote keyless entry signals from communications signals received from the antenna, and an amplifier to amplify the remote keyless entry signals. The filters may be passive filters. The antenna may be a whip antenna or roof antenna.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 9, 2010Publication date: April 7, 2011Inventors: Victor Rabinovich, Yaroslaw Matkiwsky
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Publication number: 20110074561Abstract: A security system is disclosed with a digital processor-based wireless remote controller that sends command to perform system operations and receive confirmation of various aspects of the system. The security system monitors environmental and vehicle system parameters and automatically provides commands or prohibits issuance of commands to operate vehicles systems based on preset environmental and vehicle system conditions. The system reports command and response status to users through the remote controller.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 28, 2010Publication date: March 31, 2011Applicant: DEI Headquarters, Inc.Inventors: Tyson James Mackjust, Joseph Kunkel
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Patent number: 7915998Abstract: A main control portion of a vehicle has an LF transmission antenna for transmitting a search signal. The LF transmission antenna has five antennas respectively provided on door knobs of the vehicle. A smart key receives the search signals transmitted from respective antennas constituting the LF transmission antenna, and then measures a filed strength of the received search signal. The smart key transmits field strength information representing the measured field strength to the main control portion. The main control portion calculates relative position information of the vehicle to the smart key, based on the field strength information. On the basis of the relative position information, the main control portion controls the door of the vehicle to be locked or unlocked.Type: GrantFiled: November 16, 2006Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Assignee: Fujitsu Ten LimitedInventors: Manabu Matsubara, Hirofumi Takasuka, Akira Matsuura
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Patent number: 7916005Abstract: An anti-theft system for a vehicle, includes certifying means of an electronic key for getting in the vehicle, human body certification information certifying means, door lock control means for unlocking a vehicle door in a case where the electronic key is certified by the certifying means of the electronic key for getting in the vehicle and the human body certification information of the person is confirmed by the human body certification information certifying means in a state where the door is unlocked; memory means for memorizing ID information of the electronic key; certifying means of an electronic key for starting an engine; and engine starting control means for starting the engine of the vehicle in a case where the electronic key is certified by the certifying means of the electronic key for starting the engine and the electronic key is an electronic key whose ID information is memorized in the memory means, after the vehicle door is unlocked by the door lock control means.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2005Date of Patent: March 29, 2011Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Yoshihide Nakane
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Patent number: 7911321Abstract: A keyless entry system has a handle housing and a grip cover defining a door handle grip, a keyless entry pad defining a plurality of keys, each identified with a corresponding symbol, a plurality of sensors in proximity to the keys for detecting an object in the vicinity of the keys, an illumination source to selectively backlight the sensors and symbols, and a light-controlling membrane extending over the keyless entry pad. Entering a keyless entry code into the keyless entry pad by selecting keys in a predetermined sequence enables a latch to be selectively disposed in either a locked condition or an unlocked condition. In ambient light, the light-controlling membrane renders the symbol invisible. When the illumination source backlights the sensor and the symbol, the light-controlling membrane renders the symbol visible.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2009Date of Patent: March 22, 2011Assignee: ADAC Plastics, Inc.Inventors: Robert L. Bingle, Joseph Meinke
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Publication number: 20110057773Abstract: A keyless entry assembly includes a carrier with an electrical conductor thereon, a light pipe having an indicator, and a controller. The light pipe is connected to the carrier such that the indicator and conductor are in alignment. The light pipe is operable for receiving light to illuminate the indicator. The carrier with the light pipe connected thereto is mountable to a user accessible portion of a vehicle. The conductor capacitively couples to an electrically conductive object proximal to the conductor while the conductor is driven with an electrical charge such that capacitance of the conductor changes due to the conductor capacitively coupling with the object. The controller is operable for driving the conductor with the electrical charge, measuring the conductor capacitance to determine whether an electrically conductive object is proximal to the conductor, and controlling a vehicle operation as a function of the object being proximal to the conductor.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 9, 2010Publication date: March 10, 2011Applicant: Uusi, LLC d/b/a NartronInventors: Todd R. Newman, John M. Washeleski, Andrew E. Blank, David W. Shank
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Patent number: 7898387Abstract: A vehicle function switch and a controller electrically are connected together. The controller has a passive mode of operation in which the controller is not responsive to activation of the vehicle function switch to transmit a vehicle function signal. The controller also has an active mode of operation in which the controller is responsive to activation of the vehicle function switch to transmit a vehicle function signal. A mode switch is associated with the controller and adapted to cause the controller to change from the passive mode of operation to the active mode of operation.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2003Date of Patent: March 1, 2011Assignee: Chrysler Group LLCInventors: Nashat K Abdel Jalil, Grigory Yezersky, Gerald Cilibraise, Stephen J Buckley
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Patent number: 7893831Abstract: An entrapment prevention sensor detecting an entrapment of an obstacle between an opening and closing door of a vehicle constituting a first member and including a corner portion and a periphery of a body opening portion constituting a second member, includes a protector including an assembly portion and a hollow portion, the assembly portion assembled onto a fitting flange provided at one of the first and second members, the assembly portion prevented from being provided at the corner portion, a sensor main body accommodated within the hollow portion, and a corner member provided at the corner portion and including a receiving portion and a fixed plate portion, the receiving portion having a hollow and curved shape corresponding to a shape of the corner portion and accommodating the sensor main body, the fixed plate portion including a clip bore and fixed to the fitting flange by means of a clip.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 2007Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: Nishikawa Rubber Co., Ltd.Inventors: Masaru Hoshina, Hironori Koeda, Toshio Nakaike
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Patent number: 7894810Abstract: The problem of being able to use in a practical way a single communication and remote control device, instead of requiring the use of multiple communication and multiple remote control devices for communication and automobile door opener and or ignition starters, is solved by this invention. A wireless signal is transmitted by cellular transmission, received and processed in an automobile for control of a door lock or control of ignition. Processed location finder, touch screen, time division multiple access (TDMA), Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), orthogonal frequency division multiplex (OFDM) signals are provided for wireless transmission. Location finder Global Positioning System (GPS) signal and non GPS signals are received and processed. In addition to cellular system components, wireless local area networks (WLAN) and/or other wideband/broadband network devices, such as orthogonal frequency division multiplex (OFDM) transmitters and receivers are incorporated into the cellular devices.Type: GrantFiled: October 15, 2008Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Inventor: Kamilo Feher
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Patent number: 7893833Abstract: A radio frequency identification (RFID) tag is coupled to a circuit board to track the specific operating and environmental conditions of each manufacturing stage as the circuit board passes through the 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 information for each circuit board at various manufacturing stages as well as the operating conditions for each stage at a particular time. Such manufacturing metrics can then be retrieved on a stage-by-stage basis for a particular circuit board by an identifier printed on the circuit board.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2006Date of Patent: February 22, 2011Assignee: Sanmina-Sci CorporationInventor: Rony Shachar
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Patent number: 7889054Abstract: The disclosed inventions relate to a method and apparatus for creating scramble signals. The disclosed inventions further relate to a method and apparatus for creating scramble signals from data signals. The disclosed inventions also relate to a method and apparatus for creating minimum-energy scramble signals. The disclosed inventions further relate to a method and apparatus for exploiting sleep and wake commands to achieve efficient data and scramble signals.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2006Date of Patent: February 15, 2011Assignee: Seknion, Inc.Inventor: Thorkild Hansen
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Publication number: 20110032075Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for enabling communication between an information handling device, such as a computer, and a vehicle. A dongle is provided for enabling the communication and includes an external coupling device, dongle transceiver circuitry, and a dongle controller. The dongle transceiver circuitry enables remote keyless entry communication between the dongle and the vehicle. The external coupling device couples the dongle to the information handling device, and the dongle controller is coupled to the external coupling device for determining when the dongle is coupled to the information handling device. The dongle controller is also coupled to the dongle transceiver circuitry for providing a remote keyless entry wakeup message to the dongle transceiver circuitry in response to receiving a communication initiation signal from the information handling device.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 7, 2009Publication date: February 10, 2011Applicants: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC., GENERAL MOTORS COMPANYInventors: ANSAF I. ALRABADY, CALVIN E. WOLF, FRED W. HUNTZICKER, DAVID T. PROEFKE, SALVATORE G. TRUPIANO
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Patent number: 7880583Abstract: A remote control apparatus for a vehicle according to the invention includes a portable-device determination unit, and a distance determination unit. The portable-device determination unit determines whether a first portable device, which can remotely control a vehicle function, is present in the vehicle. The distance determination unit determines whether a distance between the user of the vehicle and the vehicle is greater than or equal to a predetermined distance. When the portable-device determination unit determines that the first portable device is present in the vehicle, and the distance determination unit determines that the distance between the user and the vehicle is greater than or equal to the predetermined distance, the remote control apparatus permits a second portable device, which can remotely control a vehicle function, to remotely control the vehicle function.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2006Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Naoki Taki, Takeshi Matsumura, Tatsunori Kato
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Patent number: 7868746Abstract: The invention relates to an electric circuit arrangement for generating or receiving an output signal or switched condition definitive for the effective locking condition of a door system, especially a motor vehicle door system. The object of the invention is to provide a circuit arrangement with which an output signal definitive for the locking condition of a door system can be furnished, the generation of which signal takes the intentions of a user or the instantaneous situation into account in improved manner.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2007Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: Ident Technology AGInventor: Wolfgang Richter
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Patent number: 7868735Abstract: In a vehicle door control system, a vehicle-side unit communicates with a hand-held device and detects an operation on any one of vehicle doors. When a condition for unlocking the doors is satisfied, the vehicle-side unit unlocks the doors. In addition, the vehicle-side unit also automatically opens some specific doors having an automatic door opening/closing function. Thus, the holder of the hand-held device no longer needs to issue another command to execute an operation to automatically open the specific doors. The vehicle side-unit also detects an operation on any doors and communicates with the hand-held device to automatically close and lock the doors, when the holder of the hand-held device leaves the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: January 27, 2006Date of Patent: January 11, 2011Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Kazuhiro Nakashima, Ifushi Shimonomoto
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Patent number: 7859129Abstract: When a remote start of an engine using a predetermined transmitter is performed, a security regarding theft of a vehicle can be prevented form being significantly deteriorated. The vehicle has a remote engine starter for remotely start an engine and a vehicle antitheft device for activating an alarm when there is a possibility of occurrence of vehicle theft. The remote engine starter and the vehicle antitheft device are connected to each other through a communication line. In a case where an engine start signal is supplied from the transmitter, the remote engine starter is caused to supply a start signal to the vehicle antitheft device through the communication line before causing a contact point closing signal to be supplied to an ignition relay.Type: GrantFiled: December 25, 2003Date of Patent: December 28, 2010Assignee: Fujitsu Ten LimitedInventors: Takao Ozawa, Shinichi Tanaka
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Patent number: 7859389Abstract: An example receiver/transmitter for a passive start and entry system switches between amplitude shift keyed modulation and frequency shift keyed modulation to maintain clear uninterrupted and dependable communication with a remote transmitter in the presence of interfering signals. The receiver/transmitter is switched to receive incoming FSK signals in response to the RSSI becoming saturated by undesired signals. The switch to FSK signal modulation occurs by signaling the remote transmitter to change over and begin sending FSK modulated signals. The FSK modulated signals are then received without significant interference.Type: GrantFiled: February 13, 2008Date of Patent: December 28, 2010Assignee: Continental Automotive CorporationInventors: Josef Baumgartner, Gerald Ostrander, Patricia Kachouh
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Patent number: 7852199Abstract: A security configuration in or for a motor vehicle, which includes a bodywork part, such as a door, and a window pane arranged in the bodywork part. The security configuration includes a touch-sensitive keypad integrated in or mounted to the window pane. The keypad has a plurality of touch sensors, each of which takes the form of resonant oscillating circuits and via which an actuation of a respective touch sensor can be picked up. An electronic evaluation system is configured for the purpose of detecting an actuation of the keypad and attributing said actuation to a respectively actuated touch sensor. There is also provided a motor vehicle which includes such a security configuration.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2007Date of Patent: December 14, 2010Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventors: Tejas Bhupendra Desai, Thomas Klement, Norbert Müller
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Patent number: 7839262Abstract: The present invention is particularly applied to a vehicle relating to a key-less entry system, and desired information is provided to a vehicle 5 corresponding to the information by monitoring a remote control signal from an electronic key 2 for the key-less entry system, and starting up operations in response to this remote control signal as a trigger.Type: GrantFiled: March 24, 2004Date of Patent: November 23, 2010Assignee: Sony CorporationInventor: Akira Shinada
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Publication number: 20100283581Abstract: A system and method for coordinating movement of a powered sliding door module and an access ramp for a vehicle is shown in FIG. 5 An OEM key fob (26a) is modified to send a non-OEM signal when a passenger side sliding door button is pressed A non-OE controller (70) receives the non-OEM signal and, depending on whether the passenger side sliding door is opened or closed, and whether the access ramp is stowed or deployed, sends the OEM signal to open the door before deploying the ramp, or delays sending the OE signal until the ramp is stowed In another embodiment, an OEM receiver is modified to receive a non-OEM signal and the control configured to receive the OEM signal and send or delay sending of the non-OEM signal depending on the condition of the door and ramp.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 6, 2007Publication date: November 11, 2010Inventor: Keith D. Heigl
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Patent number: 7830245Abstract: Systems and methods for placing a vehicle operator into an performance driving position for a particular vehicle by adjusting equipment on the vehicle based on various combinations of biometric parameters of the vehicle operator. In one embodiment, the performance driving position for a particular vehicle is first determined and is stored in a processing device or associated memory. The vehicle operator may enter required biometric parameters into an input device operably connected to the processing device, which in turn calculates the vehicle operator's present location and any movement of the seating elements, controls, and set forth necessary to place the vehicle operator in an performance driving position. The processing device then sends one or more output signals to one or more motors associated with one or more seating elements or controls to adjust such equipment and place the operator in the performance driving position.Type: GrantFiled: March 14, 2005Date of Patent: November 9, 2010Assignee: Performance Driving Position LLPInventors: Stephen D. Barker, Harry Sakjas
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Publication number: 20100277277Abstract: 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: ApplicationFiled: April 29, 2009Publication date: November 4, 2010Applicant: JOB SITE RESOURCES, LLCInventors: Michael Green, Kevin Hall
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Patent number: 7825779Abstract: A vehicle remote entry locking or unlocking chirp sound reduction system including a remote transmitter operable to transmit a signal, a receiver operable to receive the signal from the remote transmitter, a controller operably connected to the receiver and being operable in response to the signal from the remote transmitter, and a horn operably connected to the controller. The controller may be configured to cause the horn to generate an audible signal having a predetermined pulse duration which depends on at least one characteristic of a vehicle prior to or during actuation of the remote transmitter. Also provided is a method of reducing the sound of an audible signal generated by actuation of a vehicle remote entry system.Type: GrantFiled: June 3, 2008Date of Patent: November 2, 2010Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: John Van Wiemeersch, John Demetriou, Lisa Boran
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Patent number: 7822614Abstract: A language analyzer performs speech recognition on a speech input by a speech input unit, specifies a possible word which is represented by the speech, and the score thereof, and supplies word data representing them to an agent processing unit. The agent processing unit stores process item data which defines a data acquisition process to acquire word data or the like, a discrimination process, and an input/output process, and wires or data defining transition from one process to another and giving a weighting factor to the transition, and executes a flow represented generally by the process item data and the wires to thereby control devices belonging to an input/output target device group. To which process in the flow the transition takes place is determined by the weighting factor of each wire, which is determined by the connection relationship between a point where the process has proceeded and the wire, and the score of word data.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2004Date of Patent: October 26, 2010Assignee: Kabushikikaisha KenwoodInventor: Rika Koyama
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Publication number: 20100268424Abstract: A vehicle door lock system may include a control unit for selectively unlocking a door, the control unit having an input for receiving a signal from an occupant detection system, a logic unit for determining whether to send an unlock signal to the door based upon the input, and an output for selectively sending the unlock signal to the door when the automatic door unlock conditions are met.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 15, 2009Publication date: October 21, 2010Inventors: Michael Binfet, John Sgueglia
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Publication number: 20100265035Abstract: Process to control access authorization for a motor vehicle. Using an activation circuit in the vehicle, a radio signal is sent out, and an ID transmitter which is carried by the user receives the radio signal and verifies it with an evaluation circuit. If verification is successful, the ID transmitter sends out a high frequency release signal which is received by the vehicle. The activation circuit activates an oscillating circuit so that the oscillation rise time of the oscillating circuit is varied in dependency of a randomly generated parameter, wherein the power supply of the oscillating circuit is controlled in dependency of the parameter. An expected system run time is determined using actual system run times, and included into the evaluation in order to prevent extensions of the radio distance.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 15, 2010Publication date: October 21, 2010Inventor: Boris Ziller
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Patent number: 7813755Abstract: An antenna device includes: a transmitting unit which is connected to a control unit of an in-vehicle device mounted at a vehicle; and a transmission antenna connected to the transmitting unit. The transmitting unit operates the transmission antenna based on a binary signal and a carrier signal from the control unit. The transmitting unit includes: a duty ratio controller that modifies the binary signal to a duty ratio signal having a prescribed duty ratio and outputs the duty ratio signal; and a driving circuit that supplies an energizing current to the transmission antenna based on the carrier signal. The duty ratio controller changes intensity of the signal transmitted from the transmission antenna by changing the energizing current according to the duty ratio signal so as to form a desired communication range.Type: GrantFiled: October 3, 2007Date of Patent: October 12, 2010Assignee: Panasonic CorporationInventors: Masaaki Ochi, Hiroshi Deguchi
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Patent number: RE41843Abstract: A method detects relaying of a contactless data communication by a radio amplifier for intercepting and manipulating the communication to achieve an unauthorized authentication. The method involves transmitting an electromagnetic field successively from at least two spatially separated antennas of a transmitting unit, receiving the transmitted fields in a receiving unit, determining field strength vectors of the received fields allocated to each antenna, and comparing actual values of the vectors with prescribed nominal values stored in a nominal value field that maps the true field strength distribution in multi-dimensional space around the transmitting unit. The actual field strength magnitude and the reception angle between the transmitting antennas can be determined from the vectors and compared with stored nominal values in this manner. When the determined actual values match prescribed nominal values of the nominal value field, the occurrence of a relaying of the signal can be reliably excluded.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2007Date of Patent: October 19, 2010Assignee: Atmel Automotive GmbHInventors: Werner Blatz, Helmut Moser