Engine Starting Interlock Patents (Class 477/99)
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Publication number: 20130040780Abstract: A method for startup control of a motor vehicle whose drive train comprises a drive engine built as a turbo-charged internal combustion engine, an automated friction clutch, and an automatic stepped transmission, with a startup which is triggered by the activation of the gas pedal from the stationary state, after engagement of a determined startup gear. The driven engine, in conjunction with coordinated engagement of the friction clutch, is controlled from the idle speed to a startup speed and from the idle torque to a determined startup torque. To reduce the load on the friction clutch, the method provides that the lowest possible engine speed, which can be generated spontaneously under load from the idle speed depending on the dynamic operating characteristics of the drive engine and with which the drive engine can generate the determined startup torque, is determined and set as the startup speed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2011Publication date: February 14, 2013Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AGInventor: Roland Mair
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Patent number: 8371987Abstract: In an automatic speed change control system for a vehicle wherein a transmission is operated by use of an actuator, to contrive an alleviation of the burden in a shifting operation made by the user after a system starting operation. A shift actuator for controlling the speed change operation of the transmission is provided in a power transmission path. When the transmission is not in a neutral condition at the time when a predetermined system starting operation is conducted, the shift actuator is operated so as to put the transmission into the neutral condition.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 2008Date of Patent: February 12, 2013Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yoshiaki Tsukada, Takashi Ozeki, Hiroyuki Kojima, Yoshiaki Nedachi
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Publication number: 20120316030Abstract: An ignition control type auto lever device may disclose shift mode control signals for P(parking)-R(rear)-N(neutral)-D(drive) that are generated by movement of an auto lever according to a gate pattern, another mode control signal that is generated by movement of the auto lever to a section behind the D(drive), and electric signals generated by at least one or more different operations of the auto lever at a section positioned ahead of the P(parking) position that are sent to a PIC (Personal Identification Card) system.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 3, 2011Publication date: December 13, 2012Applicants: Hyundai Motor Company, SL Corporation, Kia Motors CorporationInventors: Jeehyuck Choi, Yangrae Cho, Chunnyung Heo, Kwanggi Lee
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Publication number: 20120252628Abstract: When a P lock state is set on the basis of a predetermined request signal for setting the P lock state, a P position indicator lamp (62) is turned on or off on the basis of the status of power supplied to the vehicle (10). For example, when the P lock state is set, the P position indicator lamp (62) is turned off when the power status is an ALL-OFF status where a combination meter (56), or the like, is not turned on or is raised to an ACC-ON status; whereas, when the P lock state is set, the P position indicator lamp (62) is turned on when the power status is an IG-ON status, when the power status is changed from the IG-ON status during vehicle driving to the ACC-ON status, or within a predetermined period of time from when the power status is changed from the IG-ON status to the ALL-OFF status.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 5, 2010Publication date: October 4, 2012Inventors: Takahiko Tsutsumi, Keisuke Sekiya, Koki Ueno, Ichiro Kitaori, Toshinari Suzuki
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Publication number: 20120231927Abstract: A driver controllable low speed mode for a stop/start technology-equipped vehicle. The vehicle comprises an internal combustion engine with stop/start technology having an engine controller, a transmission connected to the internal combustion engine, and a shifter connected to the transmission and the engine controller. The shifter is operable to place the transmission into one of a plurality of operating modes, the operating modes including at least a low speed mode wherein stop/start technology is disabled. The engine controller is operable to detect vehicle operation above a speed or acceleration threshold and cause an audible chime or message to be played or a visual cue displayed to prompt the driver to deactivate the low speed mode. The engine controller is further operable to detect a sustained acceleration attempt when the transmission is in low speed mode and to disable low speed mode for a predetermined period of time upon this detection.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 8, 2011Publication date: September 13, 2012Inventors: Brian E. Beechie, John D. Mueller, Jeffrey M. Orzechowski, Anurag Peter Varma
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Patent number: 8225632Abstract: A key interlock device for a vehicle, may include a shift lever moving straight at least in two perpendicular directions between a predetermined range and a P-range in sequence, a key lock lever pivotally coupled to a vehicle body and rotatable by a second straight movement of the shift lever between the predetermined range and the P-range, and a motion transmitting member coupled to an end portion of the key lock lever and transmitting the rotation of the key lock lever to a key set as a straight motion while the other end portion of the key lock lever moves in the second straight movement from/to the P-range of the shift lever by the shift lever.Type: GrantFiled: June 18, 2010Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Assignee: Hyundai Motor CompanyInventor: Dohyon Won
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Patent number: 8224538Abstract: An automatic transmission includes gears, torque-transmitting mechanisms, interconnecting members, an input member and an output member. A method of controlling the automatic transmission includes data acquisition from the output shaft torque sensor, commanding a hydraulic fluid pressure pulse time and a pressure pulse value to engage a first torque-transmitting mechanism, calculating a rate-of-change of a first data output from the output shaft torque sensor, calculating a rate-of-change of a second data output from the output shaft torque sensor, comparing the results of the rate-of-change calculations and adjusting the hydraulic fluid pressure pulse time and a pressure pulse value if the rate of change of the second data output is not equal to the rate-of-change of the first data output.Type: GrantFiled: November 11, 2009Date of Patent: July 17, 2012Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventors: Zhen Zhang, Shushan Bai, John R. Maten
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Patent number: 8197387Abstract: A shift lever assembly utilizing a single switch to produce a first signal indicating that a transmission of a vehicle is in a park position and a second signal to authorize removal of a key from an ignition of the vehicle is disclosed. The switch includes a casing supporting a plunger having a first park indication contact and a first key removal contact. The casing includes a second park indication contact and a second key removal contact. The first park indication contact engages the second park indication contact when the plunger is in a rest position and is disengaged from the second park indication contact when the plunger is in a depressed position. The first key removal contact is disengaged from the second key removal contact when the plunger is in the rest position and engages the second key removal contact when the plunger is in the depressed position.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2008Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: Steering Solutions IP Holding CorporationInventors: Michael C. Vermeersch, Larry W. Burr
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Patent number: 8145399Abstract: Method and arrangement for providing an electronic gear shift selector associated with an automatic mechanical transmission for a heavy vehicle. The gear shift selector includes a toggle switch for asserting at least one gear shift request, a counter receiving the at least one gear shift request, and a time delay for preventing communication of the at least one gear shift request from the counter until a predefined time period has passed. A method for communicating a collective gear shift request to a gear box includes asserting one or more gear shift requests with a gear shift selector, communicating the gear shift requests to a counter, determining the collective gear shift requests occurring within a predefined time period, communicating the gear shift requests occurring within the predefined time period to a gearbox.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2006Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: Volvo Lastvagnar ABInventors: Anders Lindgren, Anders Eriksson
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Patent number: 8128531Abstract: A key interlock control system may include a parking position switch unit configured to detect whether a gearshift lever is located in a parking position; an ignition switch unit configured to be electrically connected to at least a power terminal for supplying electrical power to at least an electric or electronic component by manipulation of an ignition key; and a control unit configured to receive a signal from the parking position switch unit and a signal from the ignition switch unit and to determine whether the ignition key is to be locked by a key interlock unit based on the signals of the parking position switch unit and the ignition switch unit.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2008Date of Patent: March 6, 2012Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors CorporationInventor: Jin Sang Chung
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Patent number: 8087317Abstract: The invention relates to an interface system for a vehicle having a starter motor and a transmission control lever. There is a need for such an interface system which senses control lever position and prevents starter motor operation unless the control lever is in a park position. The interface system includes a plurality of magnet members generating magnetic fields, and a plurality of magnetic sensors or Hall effect switches mounted to the lever so that movement of the lever causes the magnetic sensors to move through the magnetic fields. An interface circuit is connected to the starter motor and to the magnetic sensors. The interface circuit and the sensors cooperate to generate lever position signals. The interface circuit and the sensors also cooperate to prevent activation of the starter motor unless the lever is in its park position. Thus, the same lever position sensors are used by the transmission control system and are used to control operation of the starter.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2007Date of Patent: January 3, 2012Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventor: David Joseph Easton
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Patent number: 8075446Abstract: A key interlock system of a vehicle equipped with an automatic transmission satisfies a condition of a key interlock system that allows a shift lever 3 inserted in a P-range groove (Parking) 2a to be shifted to other ranges (R-range, N-range, and D-range) only by turning a key inserted in a key hole of an ignition lock cylinder 42 to ‘ON’, and a condition of a key interlock system that allows the key to be removed from the key hole of ignition lock cylinder 42 only when shift lever 3 is positioned at P-range (Parking) 2a, by using a mechanical structure. Therefore, it is possible to achieve a key interlock system that can be manufactured at a low cost, does not make noise, and does not easily break down, as compared with electronic devices.Type: GrantFiled: July 22, 2009Date of Patent: December 13, 2011Assignees: KIA Motors Corporation, Hyundai Motor CompanyInventor: Wonjin Jeong
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Publication number: 20110275478Abstract: A method of operating at least one form-locking shifting element of an automatic transmission integrated in a drivetrain which comprises an oil pump that can be driven mechanically by an internal combustion engine and an auxiliary oil pump that can be electrically driven, before start-up of the internal combustion engine. The method including the steps of recognizing the start-up of the combustion engine and, when a start-up of the combustion engine is recognized, controlling the electrically driven auxiliary oil pump and the at least one form-locking shifting element such that, directly after the generation of a defined rotational speed difference of the at least one form-locking shifting element by the internal combustion engine, the at least one form-locking shifting element is engaged.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 12, 2011Publication date: November 10, 2011Applicant: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Ruben Cüppers, Thilo SCHMIDT
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Patent number: 7952222Abstract: A hydraulic control system includes a key detector that detects whether an ignition key is in an on state, a control portion that outputs different control signals according to whether the engine is on if the key is on, and a valve, such as a solenoid valve, that controls gear shifts according to the control signals from the control portion. A hydraulic control method includes determining whether an ignition key is on; determining whether an engine is on or off if the key is on; and controlling a valve, such as a solenoid valve, that controls gear shifts, differently depending on whether the engine is on or off, such as by applying different duty values to the valve. A low duty value may be applied to the valve when the engine is off, and a higher duty value may be applied to the valve when the engine is on.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2008Date of Patent: May 31, 2011Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation, Aisin Aw Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hyun Ku Lee, Yoshio Koike, Ryogo Kato, Yoshizou Akita, Kiyotaka Wakamatsu
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Patent number: 7935021Abstract: A vehicle-starting-engine-torque restricting device is provided to restrict engine torque upon starting of a vehicle with an engine used as a vehicle drive power source, so that a required output of a first electric motor which generates a reaction force corresponding to the engine torque can be made smaller than when the engine torque is not restricted. Namely, the vehicle-starting-engine-torque restricting device eliminates a need of increasing the maximum output of the first electric motor to generate the reaction force corresponding to the engine torque, making it possible to reduce the required size of the first electric motor.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2005Date of Patent: May 3, 2011Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Atsushi Tabata, Yutaka Taga, Atsushi Kamada
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Publication number: 20110053735Abstract: Various systems and methods are described for controlling an engine in a vehicle, the engine being coupled to a transmission. One example method comprises, under selected braking conditions, shutting-off the engine and spinning-down the engine to rest while the vehicle is traveling, and in response to a foot-off-brake event, restarting the engine by at least partially engaging the transmission and adjusting engine torque control actuators.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 1, 2009Publication date: March 3, 2011Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: Donald J. Lewis, Gopichandra Surnilla, Ross Dykstra Pursifull
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Patent number: 7881835Abstract: The invention concerns a method and a system for controlling start-up of a motor vehicle by dialogue of the engine controlling computer with the piloted mechanical gearbox, during a restart of the vehicle in stop and start mode. A “start-up authorization” is transmitted to the gearbox at a time t when the following three conditions are fulfilled: a) verifying the position of the accelerator pedal relative to a predetermined “threshold” position; b) the engine is in sequential injection phase; c) verifying a so-called “autonomous condition”, calculated on the basis of the engine speed and of an engine speed gradient compared to a predetermined threshold value. The invention is applicable to motor vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: March 31, 2006Date of Patent: February 1, 2011Assignee: Peugeot Citroen Automobiles SAInventor: Jean-Christophe Denis
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Publication number: 20100255953Abstract: A vehicle system includes a transmission shifting means, an authorization means, an engine, and a control system. The transmission shifting means is capable of being shifted between a first position and a second position, where the first position represents a start mode. The authorization means adapted to detect an identification signal and to supply an authorization signal indicating the identification signal has been verified. The engine is adapted to turn on and to turn off. The control system is in operable communication with the transmission shifting means, the authorization means, and the engine. When the transmission shifting means is shifted to the first position, the transmission shifting means sends a first signal to the control system, the control system detects whether the authorization signal has been received from the authorization means, and if received, the control system provides a first command to the engine to turn on.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 3, 2009Publication date: October 7, 2010Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS, INC.Inventors: SCOTT A. MCCULLOUGH, INGOBERT K. LASSRICH, DAVID T. PROEFKE, FRED W. HUNTZICKER
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Publication number: 20100184562Abstract: A controller stops a fuel injection when a vehicle is in a specified decelerate condition where the vehicle likely stops and an automatic stop requirement is generated. An input shaft and an output shaft of a shift transmission mechanism are directly connected with each other through a direct connector so that a driving power is transmitted from an engine to a driving shaft through a power transmitter which permits a sliding between an input shaft and an output shaft thereof. When a restart requirement is generated before the vehicle is completely stopped, the engine is restarted under a condition where the input shaft and the output shaft of the shift transmission mechanism are connected with each other by a direct connector. When the restart requirement is not generated before the vehicle is completely stopped, the input shaft and the output shaft are disconnected when the vehicle is completely stopped.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 12, 2010Publication date: July 22, 2010Applicant: DENSO CORPORATIONInventors: Takashi SENDA, Akira Katoh, Kenji Kawahara
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Patent number: 7749135Abstract: The interlock system includes a shaft that defines a longitudinal axis which the shaft rotates about during transmission shift operations. A transmission shift lever is coupled to the shaft, and an inhibitor pin is coupled to the ignition switch by a cable. The inhibitor pin engages the transmission shift lever to prevent shift operations when the ignition switch is in the off position. The inhibitor pin disengages the transmission shift lever when the ignition switch is positioned in the accessory position or a start/run position. The shaft includes a recess into which the inhibitor pin extends when the shaft is in the neutral or drive position to permit disconnection of the accessory circuit by moving the ignition switch to a mid position (between the off position and the accessory position) without placing the shaft in the park position.Type: GrantFiled: September 12, 2007Date of Patent: July 6, 2010Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventors: Michael C. Vermeersch, Gregory P. Ruth
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Patent number: 7659638Abstract: A neutral starter interlock for motorcycles, a form of electronic safety circuit, is disclosed. The interlock is designed as a retrofit especially for Harley-Davidson® Big Twin and Sportster® motorcycles manufactured prior to model-year 2007 and factory equipped with an electric starter and a neutral indicator light. The interlock circuit interconnects the neutral indicator circuit (between the battery and the transmission neutral switch) and the starting circuit (between the battery and the starter solenoid) of the motorcycle, and includes an electronic relay that bars current from flowing from the battery to the starter solenoid unless the motorcycle's transmission is in neutral. This prevents unanticipated movement of the motorcycle if an attempt is made to start the engine with the transmission in gear.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2007Date of Patent: February 9, 2010Inventor: Theodore Paul Hoehn
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Publication number: 20100022349Abstract: A key interlock system of a vehicle equipped with an automatic transmission satisfies a condition of a key interlock system that allows a shift lever 3 inserted in a P-range groove (Parking) 2a to be shifted to other ranges (R-range, N-range, and D-range) only by turning a key inserted in a key hole of an ignition lock cylinder 42 to ‘ON’, and a condition of a key interlock system that allows the key to be removed from the key hole of ignition lock cylinder 42 only when shift lever 3 is positioned at P-range (Parking) 2a, by using a mechanical structure. Therefore, it is possible to achieve a key interlock system that can be manufactured at a low cost, does not make noise, and does not easily break down, as compared with electronic devices.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 22, 2009Publication date: January 28, 2010Applicants: Kia Motors Corporation, Hyundai Motor CompanyInventor: Wonjin JEONG
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Publication number: 20090298643Abstract: A key interlock control system may include a parking position switch unit configured to detect whether a gearshift lever is located in a parking position; an ignition switch unit configured to be electrically connected to at least a power terminal for supplying electrical power to at least an electric or electronic component by manipulation of an ignition key; and a control unit configured to receive a signal from the parking position switch unit and a signal from the ignition switch unit and to determine whether the ignition key is to be locked by a key interlock unit based on the signals of the parking position switch unit and the ignition switch unit.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2008Publication date: December 3, 2009Applicants: HYUNDAI MOTOR COMPANY, KIA MOTORS CORPORATIONInventor: Jin Sang CHUNG
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Patent number: 7617896Abstract: An electric vehicle is provided with an electric motor and a transmission capable of being shifted by a shift mechanism from a neutral state to a start-up speed stage selected state in which a speed stage for start-up of the vehicle has been selected. On a request for a shift from the neutral state to the start-up speed stage selected state, an ECU performs the requested shift by controlling the shift mechanism. If the shift to the start-up speed stage selected state is not completed within a first specified time, the ECU performs a rotating position control in which the motor is controlled to produce a predetermined minute torque in forward and backward rotation directions of the motor, alternately, and a gear of the speed stage for start-up is caused to oscillate in a rotation direction by the minute torque being transmitted to an input shaft of the transmission.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 2007Date of Patent: November 17, 2009Assignee: Mitsubishi Fuso Truck and Bus CorporationInventor: Makoto Ogata
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Patent number: 7597649Abstract: An automatic transmission shifter assembly comprises a shift lever support configured for attachment to a vehicle, a shift lever mounted to the shift lever support to shift between transmission gear settings; a brake transmission system interlock (BTSI) comprising a shift lever control member controllable by actuation of a solenoid or other powered actuator to selectively block the shift lever from moving out of the PARK position. An electronic ignition switch, an ignition actuator and an ignition key interlock are mounted to the shift lever support. The ignition key interlock comprises an interlock member controllable by the ignition actuator to selectively block the solenoid from moving the shift lever control member to the unblock position.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2007Date of Patent: October 6, 2009Assignee: Dura Global Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Yong Qiang Wang
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Patent number: 7559874Abstract: A shift mechanism for a transmission in a vehicle includes a housing, a shift lever, a key cylinder and an actuator. The actuator operably connects to the key cylinder and is capable of movement between a first position that prevents the shift lever from changing shift positions, and a second position that allows the shift lever to change shift positions.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2006Date of Patent: July 14, 2009Assignee: Chrysler LLCInventors: Gregory F. Fischer, Donald J. Stewart, Scott Munro, Robert L. Brown, David P. Jacobs
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Patent number: 7539571Abstract: A non-contact neutral sensing apparatus with directional feedback in a vehicle directional control system for an agricultural or construction vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 5, 2006Date of Patent: May 26, 2009Assignee: CNH America LLCInventors: Richard P. Strosser, Zachary Scmook, Douglas R. Otto, David G. Lutz
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Publication number: 20090111648Abstract: A method of automatically controlling a neutral position and parking lock of an motor-vehicle transmission to immobilize the vehicle depending on a drive position of the transmission selected by the driver with a selector device and subject to other operating parameters of the motor vehicle. Only when simultaneously the vehicle is essentially stationary, an ignition circuit is electrically interrupted and the selector device is in a “Neutral” position, can an Neutral-holding phase be activated, in which the transmission is in a non-frictionally engaged neutral position as long as the parking lock of the transmission has not yet been engaged. If the Neutral-holding phase has not been activated, the transmission remains non-frictionally connected in the Neutral position until the driver at least intends to exit the vehicle, at which time the parking lock of the transmission is automatically engaged.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2008Publication date: April 30, 2009Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AGInventors: Walter HECHT, Armin GIERLING, Klaus STEINHAUSER, Frank WORMS, Bernd ZANGLEIN, Stephane KLEIN
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Publication number: 20090111649Abstract: A method for selecting a neutral position of an automatic or automated motor vehicle transmission and for selecting a parking device of the motor vehicle intended for immobilizing the motor vehicle, wherein the neutral position and the parking device can be engaged or actuated as a function of a position chosen by the driver of the motor vehicle on a selector device and as a function of other operating parameters of the motor vehicle. The invention further relates to a motor vehicle controlled by this method.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2008Publication date: April 30, 2009Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AGInventors: Walter HECHT, Armin GIERLING, Klaus STEINHAUSER, Frank WORMS, Bernd ZANGLEIN, Stephane KLEIN
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Publication number: 20090111647Abstract: The invention relates to a method to select a neutral position of an automatic or automated motor vehicle transmission and to select a parking gear provided to immobilize a motor vehicle, wherein the neutral position and parking device can be set or activated, depending on a gear selected by the driver of the motor vehicle on a selector device and depending on other operating parameters of the motor vehicle. In addition, the invention relates to a motor vehicle controlled by this method. It is proposed that only if the motor vehicle is at least almost stopped and simultaneously an ignition circuit acting on the drive motor vehicle is electrically interrupted and simultaneously a “Neutral (N) gear is selected on a selector device, an N-holding phase, in which the transmission is in a friction-free neutral position, can be activated by a separate control device provided in addition to the selector device, as long as an energy management system of the motor vehicle allows the activation of the N-holding phase.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 24, 2008Publication date: April 30, 2009Applicant: ZF FRIEDRICHSHAFEN AGInventors: Walter HECHT, Armin GIERLING, Klaus STEINHAUSER, Frank WORMS, Bernd ZANGLEIN, Stephane KLEIN
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Publication number: 20090082175Abstract: In an automatic speed change control system for a vehicle wherein a transmission is operated by use of an actuator, to contrive an alleviation of the burden in a shifting operation made by the user after a system starting operation. A shift actuator for controlling the speed change operation of the transmission is provided in a power transmission path. When the transmission is not in a neutral condition at the time when a predetermined system starting operation is conducted, the shift actuator is operated so as to put the transmission into the neutral condition.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2008Publication date: March 26, 2009Inventors: Yoshiaki TSUKADA, Takashi Ozeki, Hiroyuki Kojima, Yoshiaki Nedachi
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Publication number: 20090069152Abstract: The interlock system includes a shaft that defines a longitudinal axis which the shaft rotates about during transmission shift operations. A transmission shift lever is coupled to the shaft, and an inhibitor pin is coupled to the ignition switch by a cable. The inhibitor pin engages the transmission shift lever to prevent shift operations when the ignition switch is in the off position. The inhibitor pin disengages the transmission shift lever when the ignition switch is positioned in the accessory position or a start/run position. The shaft includes a recess into which the inhibitor pin extends when the shaft is in the neutral or drive position to permit disconnection of the accessory circuit by moving the ignition switch to a mid position (between the off position and the accessory position) without placing the shaft in the park position.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 12, 2007Publication date: March 12, 2009Inventors: Michael C. Vermeersch, Gregory P. Ruth
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Publication number: 20090024287Abstract: Internal combustion engine with a power train, to which a torque of a starter can be transferred, wherein the power train is connected to the crankshaft of the internal combustion engine via a clutch, and in so doing, the clutch has an engaged position, wherein a drive torque from the starter can be transferred to the crankshaft, and a disengaged position, wherein the drive torque from the starter cannot be transferred to the crankshaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 17, 2008Publication date: January 22, 2009Applicant: Robert Bosch GmbHInventor: Jochen Laubender
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Publication number: 20080318731Abstract: The invention concerns a method and a system for controlling start-up of a motor vehicle by dialogue of the engine controlling computer with the piloted mechanical gearbox, during a restart of the vehicle in stop and start mode. A “start-up authorization” is transmitted to the gearbox at a time t when the following three conditions are fulfilled: a) verifying the position of the accelerator pedal relative to a predetermined “threshold” position; b) the engine is in sequential injection phase; c) verifying a so-called “autonomous condition”, calculated on the basis of the engine speed and of an engine speed gradient compared to a predetermined threshold value. The invention is applicable to motor vehicles.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 31, 2006Publication date: December 25, 2008Applicant: PEUGEOT CITROEN AUTOMOBILES SAInventor: Jean-Christophe Denis
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Publication number: 20080309453Abstract: Provided are an apparatus and a method for starting automobile engine by a radio communication between an automobile smart key and a smart key electronic control unit (ECU). According to this invention, it is decided whether or not a transmission lever position signal and a break pedal signal are ON. The smart key ECU requests a smart key for a smart key ID when both signals are ON, and receives the smart key ID from the smart key. Then the smart key ECU performs the verification of the smart key using the received smart key ID and turns the starting control relay ON when the smart key is verified. Additionally, when the ignition switch is turned ON within the prescribed time after the starting control relay is turned ON, the smart key ECU supplies the electric power from the ignition switch to the starting motor, thus starting the automobile engine.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 12, 2008Publication date: December 18, 2008Inventors: MIN SEOK KIM, YOUNG TAK KIM, JAE PYUNG KO, JAE WOO YANG
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Publication number: 20080167162Abstract: A vehicle shifter assembly is disclosed which is mounted in an interior of a vehicle in operable connection with a vehicle transmission for selecting a mode of the transmission. The shifter has a base member, an ignition button, and a cover. The base member is mounted to the vehicle interior and translatable relative to the vehicle interior. The ignition button is provided on a top surface of the base member and operably connected to an engine of the vehicle such that actuation of the ignition button starts the engine of the vehicle. The cover is pivotably connected to the top surface of the base member to generally cover the ignition button. The cover has a closed position and an opened position.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 5, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Applicant: FORD GLOBAL TECHNOLOGIES, LLCInventors: Kris Tomasson, Brian White
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Patent number: 7381148Abstract: A system for ensuring the ability to start an internal combustion engine contained within a drive train of a vehicle includes, in addition to an actuation device, a torque transmission device contained in the drive train between the internal combustion engine and driven vehicle wheels, an enabling device that is operable by a person operating the vehicle and by means of which the operability of the starter is enabled for starting the internal combustion engine when the torque transmission between the internal combustion engine and the driven wheels of the vehicle is interrupted.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2005Date of Patent: June 3, 2008Assignee: LuK Lamellen und Kupplungsbau Betelligungs KGInventors: Behzad Nazari, Jens Martin, Matthias Ehrlich, Joachim Hirt, Frank Stengel, Martin Fuss, Alexander Schweizer, Martin Zimmermann
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Patent number: 7374511Abstract: Methods and devices for actuating a parking brake in a gearbox which is actuated in an automated manner, whereby gear changes are carried out using at least one electrically driven actuator, gear positions can be selected by using a selector device, and the parking brake can be activated by using the selector device when the vehicle is stationary or moving slowly. A vehicle provided with an additional gearbox. An ignition key can only be removed, when the gearbox is in a P state and the additional gearbox is not in the N state. A further method and device, whereby the additional gearbox can only be shifted in the N state when the gearbox is not in the P state. Further methods and a device in which automated manual gearboxes, especially parallel gearboxes, are controlled in such a way that the vehicle can be safely parked.Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2007Date of Patent: May 20, 2008Assignee: LuK Lamellan und Kupplungsbau Beteiligungs KGInventors: Reinhard Berger, Alexander Schweizer, Dietmar Lang, Klaus Kuepper, Burkhard Pollak, Juergen Benz
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Patent number: 7357105Abstract: A hydraulic valve driving device includes a valve actuator operable to drive an engine valve, a hydraulic pump that generates the oil pressure for the valve actuator, a hydraulic pump driving motor that drives the hydraulic pump, and a starter motor. At the time of engine starting, after the hydraulic pump is driven by the hydraulic pump driving motor while the crank is stopped in the first engine-starting mode, and then the crank and the hydraulic pump are driven by the starter motor in the second engine-starting mode.Type: GrantFiled: December 27, 2005Date of Patent: April 15, 2008Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yuji Moriwaki, Naoki Tsuchida
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Publication number: 20080045381Abstract: A method of preventing unauthorized movement of a transmission shift mechanism comprises the steps of: detecting a predefined event; moving a locking device into an engaged position with a shift mechanism upon the occurrence of the predefined event to retain the shift mechanism in at least one of a park, reverse, neutral, and drive position; and maintaining an ignition system in a substantially off position during the detecting of the event and the moving of the locking device into the engaged position. A vehicle assembly is also provided comprising the transmission shift mechanism and the locking device coupled to the shift mechanism. The vehicle assembly also includes the ignition system, which is movable between off, accessory, run, and start positions, and a controller with the controller energizing the locking device in response to the predefined event to move the locking device into the locked position while the ignition system remains substantially in the off position.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 17, 2007Publication date: February 21, 2008Inventors: Michael C. Vermeersch, Larry W. Burr
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Publication number: 20080026907Abstract: A shift mechanism for a transmission in a vehicle includes a housing, a shift lever, a key cylinder and an actuator. The actuator operably connects to the key cylinder and is capable of movement between a first position that prevents the shift lever from changing shift positions, and a second position that allows the shift lever to change shift positions.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 31, 2006Publication date: January 31, 2008Inventors: Gregory F. Fischer, Donald J. Stewart, Scott Munro, Robert L. Brown, David P. Jacobs
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Patent number: 7270623Abstract: An automatic transmission shifter assembly comprises a shift lever support configured for attachment to a vehicle, a shift lever mounted to the shift lever support to shift between transmission gear settings; a brake transmission system interlock (BTSI) comprising a shift lever control member controllable by actuation of a solenoid or other powered actuator to selectively block the shift lever from moving out of the PARK position. An electronic ignition switch, an ignition actuator and an ignition key interlock are mounted to the shift lever support. The ignition key interlock comprises an interlock member controllable by the ignition actuator to selectively block the solenoid from moving the shift lever control member to the unblock position.Type: GrantFiled: August 3, 2005Date of Patent: September 18, 2007Assignee: Dura Glabal Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Yong Qiang Wang
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Patent number: 7189186Abstract: A brake transmission shift interlock actuator includes a bobbin that has an open end and a closed end. A plunger is slidably disposed within the bobbin and a plunger rod extends from the plunger. Moreover, a primary plate is installed within the open end of the bobbin. The plunger is movable between an unlocked position, wherein the plunger rod does not extend through the primary plate and a locked position, wherein a first end of the plunger rod extends through a bore formed by the primary plate. Further, a magnetic force of attraction between the plunger and the primary plate diminishes as the plunger approaches the primary plate.Type: GrantFiled: August 1, 2003Date of Patent: March 13, 2007Assignee: Delphi Technologies, IncInventors: Alexis C. Weber, Alejandro Moreno
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Patent number: 7156772Abstract: A switch device that improves reliability in starting an engine is provided. The switch device includes a push button, a magnetic sensor, and a power supply ECU. The push button is pressed by a driver to start the engine. The magnetic sensor detects that the push button has been pressed, in a non-contact manner. The power supply ECU is connected to the magnetic sensor and supplies power to the magnetic sensor to enable the magnetic sensor to detect that the push button has been pressed.Type: GrantFiled: April 22, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki SeisakushoInventors: Kiyokazu Ohtaki, Yukio Iwasaki, Tomoyuki Funayama, Koji Iwamoto
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Patent number: 7115068Abstract: A regulating or control unit actuates a stop/start unit for an internal-combustion engine in a motor vehicle. At least one sensor is provided for detecting at least one parameter which is dependent on a steering wheel position of the motor vehicle. The regulating or control unit actuates the stop/start unit as a function of the detected parameter information.Type: GrantFiled: July 23, 2004Date of Patent: October 3, 2006Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AGInventors: Harald Braun, Henry Gmelin, Torsten Scholt
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Patent number: 7104923Abstract: A start control apparatus includes a position sensor, a basic start determination processor, a sensor output determination processor, and a start permission continuation processor. The basic start determination processor determines whether a sensor output is in a permission region for permitting the start of operation of a motor when an engine start range is selected, and generates a start permission signal when the sensor output is in the permission region. The sensor output determination processor determines whether distinctive variation characteristics are detected in the sensor output when the motor is started based on the start permission signal and supply of electrical current to the motor. The start permission continuation processor permits continuation of operation of the motor when the variation characteristics are detected.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2004Date of Patent: September 12, 2006Assignee: Aisin AW Co., Ltd.Inventors: Mitsunori Nakane, Masayuki Tsugawa, Masayuki Sugiura, Muneo Kusafuka, Kenji Suzuki
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Patent number: 7029420Abstract: A vehicle status change-over device is disclosed wherein an ignition switch 4 and a case 5 are fixed to a steering column cover, a case 5 supports a rotator 6 for rotational movement while fixing a shift position switch 8, a dial 9 is mounted to the case 5 for rotational movement about a center on substantially the line as a rotational center of the rotator 6, a shift lock solenoid 15 is mounted to an outer periphery of the case 5 at an area corresponding to a bore 14, and a lock pin 6 is provided to be moveable with the shift lock solenoid 15.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2001Date of Patent: April 18, 2006Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yutaka Sekino, Yoko Horiuchi
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Patent number: 7031826Abstract: A remote start control system for a vehicle including an engine, a transmission connected to the engine and a data communications bus carrying transmission position data related to a selected transmission position, may include a remote start transmitter, a receiver at the vehicle for receiving signals from the remote start transmitter, and a vehicle remote start controller. The vehicle remote start controller may be connected to the data communications bus and to the receiver for starting the engine based upon the transmission position data carried by the data communications bus and signals from the remote start transmitter. Alternately, or additionally, the data communications bus may carry engine speed data, vehicle brake position data, or vehicle security data. Accordingly, the engine may be started responsive to the engine speed data, the vehicle brake position data, or the vehicle security data.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2003Date of Patent: April 18, 2006Assignee: Omega Patents, L.L.C.Inventor: Kenneth E. Flick
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Patent number: 6997850Abstract: A shifting device (1) is provided for transmitting shift commands to an automatic transmission of a motor vehicle, with a housing (2) and/or a frame, a selector lever (4), which transmits shift commands to the transmission of the motor vehicle and can be moved at least in an automatic gate and preferably also in a Tiptronic gate. The selector lever (4) can be fixed in a parking position P by an axially displaceable locking bar (5) that can be actuated manually, and with a locking device, which is coupled with the ignition lock and prevents the unlocking of the selector lever (4) from the parking position when the ignition key has been removed and the removal of the ignition key when the selector lever (4) is outside the parking position. The locking device is formed by a stopper (8), which is displaceable in the direction of the automatic gate and through which the selector lever (4) passes, and a locking lever (9), which acts on the stopper (8).Type: GrantFiled: February 18, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: ZF Lemförder Metallwaren AGInventors: Andreas Giefer, Jörg Meyer, Dietmar Otto
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Patent number: 6991582Abstract: In a locking device for a selector lever of a motor vehicle transmission comprising a locking member, which is pivotally supported on a support structure, and an adjustable locking element is supported on the support structure and engages the locking member for fixing the selector lever, a locking part is mounted resiliently on the locking member so as to bear against the support structure and to engage the selector lever, the locking part being movable by the selector lever between a first rest position to second position by application of a predetermined force by the selector lever.Type: GrantFiled: November 26, 2003Date of Patent: January 31, 2006Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AGInventor: Armin Segeler