Rotary Or Swinging Patents (Class 70/209)
  • Patent number: 6131426
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for attachment to an automobile steering wheel designed to limit access to an automobile steering wheel, including the rim of the steering wheel. The device consists of a skeletonized metal structure with a size and shape similar to, but fitting over and on top of, an automobile steering wheel. The device is securely attached to a conventional automobile steering wheel bar lock. The device is casehardened to substantially prevent cutting through the device with a hacksaw. The device helps to prevent the theft of the automobile by keeping the steering wheel immobile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: Melvin Tarnofsky
  • Patent number: 6116065
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for precluding the flying of an airplane comprises a pair of arm members telescopically interengaged and having axially outwardly open U-shaped hooks for engaging with two flight control components in the cockpit of an airplane to preclude the displacement of the elevators, ailerons or rudder necessary to fly the airplane. The anti-theft device is releasably locked between the flight control components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Winner Aviation Corporation
    Inventor: Charles Richard Hale
  • Patent number: 6109076
    Abstract: An anti-theft device is provided to deter theft of an automobile and driver's side airbag. The device combines a shield that covers the airbag and at least a portion of the steering wheel and an extensible, ratcheted steering wheel lock. The anti-theft device includes a concave area for accommodating the airbag and a pair of hooks for attaching to the device to the steering wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Master Lock Company
    Inventor: Pete Kajuch
  • Patent number: 6092403
    Abstract: A steering wheel and lock arrangement, which includes a steering wheel and a lock, the steering wheel being formed of an upper wheel half and a lower wheel half, the lower wheel half having a first oblong insertion hole and two second oblong insertion holes at a top side wall thereof and a respective coupling chamber respectively defined inside each oblong insertion hole, the upper wheel half having a downward rod with a transverse block pivotably coupled to the coupling chamber in the first oblong insertion hole, the lock being securely mounted in the upper wheel half and moved with the upper wheel half between the two second oblong insertion holes at the lower wheel half and operated to lock the steering wheel between the operative position and the non-operative position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Inventor: Ching-He Sh
  • Patent number: 6044672
    Abstract: A method for removing a steering wheel lock using a device having a main body having a center opening and a pair of supporting arms extending outwardly and downwardly. The device further comprises a central shaft extending through the center opening in the main body. The central shaft includes an externally threaded portion and a hook portion extending therefrom for grabbing the steering wheel lock. A crank arm having an internally threaded bore is rotatably mounted to the externally threaded portion of the central shaft. To remove a steering wheel lock from a steering wheel, the crank arm is manually rotated which advances the central shaft in an upward direction which in turn pulls at the grab point of the steering wheel lock while the supporting arms of the main body holds the remainder of the steering wheel lock in place, thereby bending the steering wheel lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Inventor: Justin Jacobs
  • Patent number: 6016674
    Abstract: The steering wheel lock and an air bag anti-theft device is adapted to fit atop a steering wheel having a hub, a plurality of spokes about a central hub axis and carrying an air bag thereon. The device includes a first and a second platform slidably engaged together. Each platform has, at opposing ends, an arcuate, steering wheel grip member with a substantially semicircular wheel grip face. Each grip face has an open mouth which faces inboard towards said central axis of said steering wheel. The device also includes first and second laterally spaced apart locking bars each carrying locking grooves. The locking bars are mounted on one of said first and said second platforms. Respective receiving channels hold and guide the first and second locking bars. The channels are formed on the other of said first and second platforms such that said locking bars slide in and out of said receiving channels in an unlocked mode. A key actuatable lock is mounted on said other of said first and second platforms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2000
    Assignee: MSO Limited
    Inventor: Paul Yang
  • Patent number: 6006851
    Abstract: A vehicle steering wheel rotation restraining apparatus which comprises a restraining arm located within the hub of a steering wheel and which is extendable to a steering wheel rotation restraining position outwardly of the steering wheel and retractable within the steering wheel to allow freedom of use of the steering wheel. The restraining apparatus is provided with a lock mechanism on or associated with the exterior surface of the hub for a user to release or lock the restraining arm. The restraining arm is normally located within the hub of the steering wheel and upon opening of the lock device, the restraining arm will automatically extend outwardly to its full steering wheel rotation restraining position. In this latter position, the arm is sufficient in length to preclude any significant turning of the steering wheel since it will impact with a rigid portion of the vehicle or the legs of the vehicle driver. Thus, the restraining arm is easy to use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Inventor: Lawrence A. Brown
  • Patent number: 5996721
    Abstract: A motor vehicle security device for protecting against the cutting of an automobile steering wheel which includes a protective member made of cut-resistant material for covering the steering wheel rim and a connector for attaching the protective member to the steering wheel rim. The protective member radially and circumferentially overlies the steering wheel rim to limit access to the rim and protect against cutting of the rim. The protective member is collapsible for convenient storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Winner International Royalty LLC
    Inventor: Kevin D. Winner
  • Patent number: 5996736
    Abstract: A ladder locking device used for securing ladders on truck and van racks with the ability to tighten and lock the ladder in place, providing safety and theft deterrent for the consumer. The ladder locking device includes a handle, a hook, and a locking arm assembly including a hook, and a threaded key mechanism. The hook accommodates a ladder rack. The handle can include a threaded tightening shaft which rotates through a threaded tightening shaft receiver in the locking arm assembly, moving the locking arm assembly hook against a ladder rung. The locking arm assembly can be extended to accommodate up to five ladders. A key is inserted into and rotates the threaded key mechanism, thus rotating a threaded shaft attached to the threaded key mechanism. Locking pins within the ladder locking device are then pushed downward by spring mechanisms and by the threaded shaft. The locking pins then extend through holes in the locking arm assembly, locking the locking arm assembly in place.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 7, 1999
    Assignee: Danny Stankiewicz
    Inventor: Danny Stankiewicz
  • Patent number: 5992190
    Abstract: The invention is a device for inhibiting the rim of a vehicle steering wheel from movement thereby rendering the vehicle inoperable. The invention is comprised of first and second semicircular casings wherein each casing has an inwardly curving lip disposed around the circular portion of its periphery. Each casing is designed to fit over a portion of the vehicle steering wheel such that when so disposed, the first and second semicircular casings can be secured together to completely encase the rim of the vehicle steering wheel. When secured around the rim of the vehicle steering wheel in this manner, casings prevent any portion of the rim from being broken or cut. Additionally, a radial bar is attached to the outer surface of one of the casings wherein the bar extends beyond the periphery of the steering wheel to prevent substantial rotation of the steering wheel. The bar is also used to join the first and second casings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 30, 1999
    Inventor: Walter C. Townsend
  • Patent number: 5970758
    Abstract: An automobile steering lock includes a body member, a housing and a lock means. The locking means is contained in a lock housing in the housing, and consists of a base, plural number buttons, a press button, an adjust plate, plural wheels, a control plate, a press plate, a coil spring and a deadbolt. When the number buttons are all rotated to the preset coded number for unlocking, the press button can be pressed inward to force the press plate together with the deadbolt to move down to the unlocking position to free the housing from the body member. Thus this lock needs no keys, and the coded number is adjustable by a user, preventing the lock from being pried open by thieves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 26, 1999
    Assignee: Chan Hau Enterprise Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Wen-Chaun Chen
  • Patent number: 5964109
    Abstract: A theft prevention device for a vehicle including a passenger compartment in which a steering wheel is provided to control the movement of the vehicle is disclosed. The theft prevention device includes a first arm having a first end, a second end and a central section. The theft prevention device also includes a second arm having a first end, a second end and a central section, wherein the central section of the first arm is pivotally secured to the central section of the second arm. The device also includes a first arm extension coupled to the first arm and a second arm extension coupled to the second arm. The first arm extension and the second arm extension are shaped to engage when the first arm and the second arm are properly aligned.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 12, 1999
    Inventor: Howard Zenke
  • Patent number: 5956982
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a mechanical device that protects auto-theft. It is to be installed on steering wheel and has the following merits over existing devices. These are: 1) automobile can not be stolen even after they cut steering wheel-rim on both sides of the device, 2) it is adjustable to fit any type of steering wheel, and 3) it takes a simple pushing to lock up the device to the automobile steering wheel, and unlocking the key-operated lock to the device releases it from the automobile steering wheel automatically.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 28, 1999
    Inventor: Chong Hun Kim
  • Patent number: 5953941
    Abstract: A removable antitheft device inhibits theft of an aircraft and the avionics of an aircraft. The device includes a horizontal member having first and second ends. A first hook is positioned at the first end of the horizontal member. The first hook is sized to engage a first yoke shaft of an aircraft. A second hook at the second end of the horizontal member is sized to engage a second yoke shaft of the aircraft. The second hook is detachable from the horizontal member. A vertical barrier is mounted to the horizontal member and is positioned proximate to an avionics stack of the aircraft to block removal of avionics equipment from the avionics stack when the first and second hooks of the horizontal member are engaged with the first and second yoke shafts. The second hook is locked to the horizontal member after the second hook engages the second yoke shaft to prevent the second hook and the horizontal member from being removed from the second yoke shaft.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Inventor: Stephen R. Freund
  • Patent number: 5924315
    Abstract: A steering wheel lock including a lock body, a U-shaped shackle bar mounted on the lock body for securing to the lock body to the rim of the steering wheel to be locked, a hook bar integral with the lock body for hooking on the rim of the steering wheel, and a polygonal stop bar fixed to the lock body for stopping at a fixed location inside the motor vehicle, the polygonal stop bar having square drive ends at both ends for use as L-shaped wrench means for turning bolts and nuts by means of sockets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 20, 1999
    Inventor: Li-Lin Chang
  • Patent number: 5921120
    Abstract: A steering lock assembly includes a main body having a recess for receiving a portion of a rim of a steering wheel, a hook device pivotally mounted in the main body and including a hook member for releasably enclosing the recess of the main body to securely hold the portion of the rim of the steering wheel, an air bag protective plate securely attached to the hook means to rotate therewith, and pawls for releasably engaging with ratchet wheels respectively mounted on the hook device and the air bag protective plate. The pawls are biased to engage with the ratchet wheels such that the air bag protective plate is only rotatable in a direction toward the air bag and that the hook member is only rotatable toward the recess of the main body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 13, 1999
    Inventor: Wen Chang Wu
  • Patent number: 5920254
    Abstract: A steering wheel lock includes a lock body with a stop bar at one side, a locating device fixedly fastened to the lock body, the locating device having two vertical barrels at two opposite sides and a U-shaped retainer plate at the top, a U-shaped shackle, and a vibration-initiated alarm signal mounted inside the lock body, wherein the U-shaped retainer plate of the locating device is hooked on the periphery of the steering wheel of a car, permitting the stop bar of the lock body to be stopped at a part inside the car, and the U-shaped shackle is inserted through the barrels of the locating device into lock holes on the lock body and locked by the lock body to secure the locating device and the lock body in place and to stop the steering wheel from rotation; a radio transmitter circuit is connected to the vibration-initiated alarm circuit, the radio transmitter circuit being triggered to transmit a radio alarm signal into the air when the vibration-initiated alarm circuit is induced to alarm; a radio receiver
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 1, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 6, 1999
    Inventor: Chen-Kuei Hsieh
  • Patent number: 5906122
    Abstract: A semi circular disc steering wheel lock is mainly composed of a semi disc and a lock plate, the semi disc is in a fan shape contour having a bending portion from its edge to form an end wall and a hole at the center portion of the end wall, the inner bottom portion has a guide rail for the lock plate to slide therein and a lock core at the opposite side. The lock plate includes an L-shaped bar erecting from the lock plate and a blind hole at the opposite side of the bar. Whereas, when the semi circular disc lock is placed on a steering wheel, pull the lock plate along the guide rail until the erecting bar extending into the hole, thus, the steering wheel is confined by the lock plate to spin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 25, 1999
    Inventor: Wu Jinn-Fu
  • Patent number: 5890382
    Abstract: A multishaft combination lock includes a lock body, an alignment sleeve, and a detachable pin. The alignment sleeve has a hole and is rotatably coupled to the lock body to provide access into the lock body. The alignment sleeve has an angled cutout at a first end, with the alignment of the cutout being adjusted by rotating the alignment sleeve. The detachable pin has a floating bushing that can be misaligned with the principle axis of the detachable pin. To lock the multishaft combination lock, the lock body is fitted to the detachable pin through the hole of the alignment sleeve with the floating bushing misaligned with the angled cutout. When the detachable pin is fully inserted into the lock body, the floating bushing is positioned beyond the end of the alignment sleeve within the lock body and becomes misaligned or offset with the alignment sleeve. To unlock the lock, the alignment sleeve is rotated so that the angled cutout is aligned with the floating bushing of the detachable pin.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Inventor: Kenneth Wang
  • Patent number: 5887464
    Abstract: An automobile anti-theft device comprised of an outer three prong portion having two outer prongs and a center prong. The outer prongs have a lower portion of a curvilinear portion secured thereto thereby forming a U-shape. The center prong is secured to a midpoint of a top surface of the curvilinear portion. The center prong has an engagement rod extending outwardly therefrom. The device contains an inner three prong portion having two outer prongs and a center prong. The outer prongs have a lower portion of a curvilinear portion secured thereto thereby forming a U-shape. The center prong is secured to a midpoint of a top surface of the curvilinear portion. The center prong has a locking member therein. The locking member includes an engageable locking pawl.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 30, 1999
    Inventor: Angel Perez
  • Patent number: 5881583
    Abstract: A new BASKETBALL RIM LOCKING COVER for PREVENTING UNAUTHORIZED USE OF A BASKETBALL HOOP. The inventive device includes a cover member having a circular configuration. The cover member has a diameter greater than a diameter of a basketball rim. A pair of diametrically opposed coupling members are secured to the planar lower surface of the cover member disposed inwardly of the peripheral edge for engaging the basketball rim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 31, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 16, 1999
    Inventors: Kenith L. Booker, Bettye J. Booker
  • Patent number: 5878609
    Abstract: The invention is based on the principle that the antitheft device has a body of a hard material which cannot be easily cut through and which covers the points of connection of at least one rib with the steering wheel rim and the steering wheel hub. As a result, even though the uncovered rim portion or uncovered ribs are cut through, the device still preserves its antitheft functions, and the vehicle remain non-steerable. The body of the device has a U-shaped cross-sectional configuration so that the device can be hooked up over the wheel rim and then locked to the rim by a lock.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 9, 1999
    Inventors: Mark Gorokhovsky, Gennady Gorokhovsky
  • Patent number: 5875661
    Abstract: A lock assembly a casing securely, releasably engaged onto a steering wheel of a vehicle. The casing includes a number of slots defined in a first portion thereof and a plurality of first holes defined a second portion thereof. A movable plate is mounted between the casing and the steering wheel and slidable relative to the casing. The movable plate includes a number of second holes defined therein for optionally aligning with the first holes in the casing. A locking device consisting of two hooked rods are provided to lock the casing and the movable plate in position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 2, 1999
    Inventor: Tien-Chin Ho
  • Patent number: 5873275
    Abstract: A vehicle wheel lock which is adjustable to accommodate various sized wheels on a vehicle and/or the steering wheel of the vehicle, and includes a two-part base, one-part insertable into the other part, two arms extending in a U-shaped fashion from the base, the distal ends of the U-shaped arms curving inward toward each other, with a serrated locking bracket positioned internal to and attached to one of the insertable bases, and a cylinder-type lock positioned internal to and attached to the opposed base, wherein the width of the lock, that is the distance between the opposed arms, may be adjusted for placement of the lock around tires of various sizes and on to a wheel, and/or a steering wheel, and for placing the lock in a position whereby the lock may be locked, thereby immobilizing the vehicle wheel or steering wheel and preventing theft of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 23, 1999
    Inventor: Walter Vojin Lukich
  • Patent number: 5868016
    Abstract: A vehicular anti-theft device is provided including a steering wheel having a central portion coupled to a steering column and an outer annular portion coupled in concentric relationship with the central portion. A security mechanism is provided for encompassing the outer annular portion of the steering wheel. Next provided is a gripping arm fixed with respect to the security mechanism for precluding the rotation of the steering wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 9, 1999
    Inventor: Thomas R. Duran, Sr.
  • Patent number: 5865044
    Abstract: A motor vehicle steering wheel lock for mounting diametrically across the rim of the steering wheel and having an extended portion adapted to block complete rotation of the steering wheel has locking means which simplify and reduce the number of manual manipulations required to mount and remove the steering wheel lock. A locking means is provided to permit only axial extension of the elongated steering wheel lock when in the locked condition, and to permit axial contraction of the elongated steering wheel lock only when in the unlocked condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 2, 1999
    Assignee: Winner International Royalty Corporation
    Inventor: Jinn Fu Wu
  • Patent number: 5855128
    Abstract: A motor vehicle security device for protecting against the cutting of an automobile steering wheel which includes a protective member made of cut-resistant material covering the steering wheel rim and a connector for attaching the protective member to the steering wheel rim. The protective member radially and circumferentially overlies the steering wheel rim to limit access to the rim and protect against cutting of the rim. The protective member includes two or more plate sections which can be collapsed into a smaller form for convenient storage. The protective member also includes a guide member to limit the movement of the plate sections with respect to one another.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 5, 1999
    Assignee: Winner International Royalty Corporation
    Inventor: Danut Voiculescu
  • Patent number: 5842360
    Abstract: A security device for a motor vehicle comprising a cover adapted to be fitted over a portion of the steering wheel of the vehicle including at least one spoke and a portion of the steering wheel rim so as to render the cover irremovable by cutting any combination of the uncovered portions of the steering wheel, a locking mechanism cooperating with the cover and an extension from the cover to foul a driver's ability to operate the steering wheel. The locking mechanism further comprises a locking pin or pins and/or a lid to prevent rotation of the device relative to the steering wheel together with an extension from the cover to inhibit a driver from using the steering wheel when the security device is mounted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 1995
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Inventor: Alan David Somerfield
  • Patent number: 5842361
    Abstract: A motor vehicle security device for protecting against the cutting of an automobile steering wheel which includes a protective member made of cut-resistant material covering the steering wheel rim and a connector for attaching the protective member to the steering wheel rim. The protective member radially and circumferentially overlies the steering wheel rim to preclude access to the rim and protect against cutting of the rim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Assignee: Winner International Royalty Corporation
    Inventor: Mark W. Banez
  • Patent number: 5836185
    Abstract: Two parts telescope so as to selectively engage the steering wheel at a portion of its rim. A third part independently telescopes relative to the first two parts so as to span a remaining portion of the diameter of the steering wheel, and so as engage the rim of the wheel at a point opposite to the portion where are located the first and second parts. One single key lock suffices to lock all telescoping parts in position, selectively engaging or releasing the device from the steering wheel at two points. The impediment presented by the locked device to turning the steering wheel is not subject to being defeated merely by cutting through either the steering wheel, or the device itself, at any single location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Inventor: Renato M. Openiano
  • Patent number: 5836186
    Abstract: A motor vehicle security device for protecting against the cutting of an automobile steering wheel which includes a protective member made of cut-resistant,material for covering the steering wheel rim and a connector for attaching the protective member to the steering wheel rim. The protective member radially and circumferentially overlies the steering wheel rim to limit access to the rim and protect against cutting of the rim. The protective member is collapsible for convenient storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Assignee: Winner International Royalty Corporation
    Inventor: James E. Winner, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5829283
    Abstract: A theft prevention device for a vehicle including a passenger compartment in which a steering wheel is provided to control the movement of the vehicle is disclosed. The theft prevention device includes a first arm having a first end, a second end and a central section. The theft prevention device also includes a second arm having a first end, a second end and a central section, wherein the central section of the first arm is pivotally secured to the central section of the second arm. The theft prevention device is also provided with a lock selectively coupled between the first arm and the second arm to lock the first arm relative to the second arm and securely position the theft prevention device within a vehicle steering wheel by locking the first arm and the second arm in an X-shaped orientation to obstruct the passenger compartment in the vehicle and deter the theft of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 23, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Inventor: Howard Zenke
  • Patent number: 5826448
    Abstract: An air bag and steering lock device including a housing. The housing has a top half and a bottom half that allows the housing to be positioned around a column of a steering wheel for replacing the covering of the column. A J-bar member is provided. The J-bar has a back bar with a pair of lateral extents projecting in a forward direction. One of the lateral extents has an interior side with a plurality of catch slots adjacent an end. Lastly, a locking means is fixedly attached to the top surface of the top half of the housing. The locking means is capable of receiving the one lateral extent of the J-bar for locking the J-bar over the steering wheel to limit the steering wheel's movement and disassembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Inventor: Kenneth L. Graham
  • Patent number: 5816082
    Abstract: An anti-theft device (18) mounted to a wheel (90) or the like. Device (18) includes a shield (20) that mounts on top of a wheel (90), with adjustable links (63, 64) at one end (27) of device (18) thrust through voids (91) separating spokes (92) of the wheel (90), and with swingable elbow members (55, 56) at the other end (38) of device (16) thrust through steering wheel voids (91). Legs (58) on the elbow members (55, 56) swing into clasping or yoke members (70), after which a locking bar assembly (80) mounts to the yoke members (70) and by which the device (18) is placed in a locked mode on the wheel (90). The elbow members (55, 56) include arms (57) which, along with the links (63, 64), are adjustable to provide change in depth to the device (18). The shield (20) includes a pair of panels (21, 22) that are slidably engageable with each other, with a fastener (28) and holes (23) in one of the panels that fixes the two together in one of a number of different lengths for the device (18).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 6, 1998
    Inventor: Mher Gabrielyan
  • Patent number: 5806350
    Abstract: An anti-theft device has a substantially cylindrical body composed of two semi-cylindrical shells, and structure for hingedly connecting the shells with one another at one circumferential end so that the shells are turnable between an open position in which the other circumferential ends of the body are spaced from one another and a closed position in which the cylindrical body is arranged on a steering column and the other ends of the shells are locked with one another, the cylindrical body being formed so that it completely covers the ignition lock in the closed position so that an unauthorized person can not get access to the ignition lock, and structure for locking the other ends of the shells in the closed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: September 15, 1998
    Inventor: Stanislav Savinsky
  • Patent number: 5794468
    Abstract: A steering wheel assembly for a vehicle includes a steering wheel hub, a rim, the rim being pivotally connected with the hub for rotation of the rim relative to the hub about an axis of rotation disposed inwardly from the rim. The rim is rotatable about the axis between a first position permitting normal steerage of the vehicle and a second position impairing normal steerage of the vehicle. The rim may be engaged and locked in the second position at a point of engagement at or the perimeter of the rim. Futher, the rim may be releasably held in the first position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 18, 1998
    Inventor: Patrick Wai-Chung Leung
  • Patent number: 5787742
    Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft device for attachment to a vehicle wheel or vehicle steering wheel is disclosed. The device has a first rod segment attached to a second rod segment wherein the second rod segment is designed for insertion through openings in a wheel or steering wheel in use. The first rod segment is elongated to prevent rotation of a vehicle wheel or steering wheel by contacting vehicle components, such as a vehicle undercarriage or dashboard. The device also has first and second flanges designed to be positioned in contact with opposing sides of a vehicle wheel or steering wheel when installed. The first flange may be securely attached to the first rod segment and the second flange may be of a design that is easily secured to or removed from the second rod segment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1996
    Date of Patent: August 4, 1998
    Assignee: William H. Lewis
    Inventors: William H. Lewis, Albert L. Davis
  • Patent number: 5784908
    Abstract: A tamper-resistant anti-theft device inhibits rotation of a vehicle steering wheel thus preventing theft of the vehicle and discouraging theft of the driver's side air bag.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Inventor: Robert A. Hileman, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5782116
    Abstract: A full wheel cover steering wheel lock and protector prevents access to an air bag in the steering wheel hub when an inner semicircular shell segment is swung out of an outer semicircular shell segment to completely enclose the steering wheel. A locking bar can be pulled into an extended position from a tunnel on the outer segment and has an arm engaging in a slot of the inner segment to lock the segments in the outwardly swung position while a shoe on its arm can engage the inner periphery of the steering wheel. The device largely fabricated of reinforced polycarbonate is of compact construction and light weight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 21, 1998
    Inventors: Timothy Ryan, Lawrence Cunningham
  • Patent number: 5778709
    Abstract: A steering wheel and air bag antitheft locking apparatus for preventing theft of a vehicle or air bag having a steering wheel with a wheel rim and a wheel spoke includes a tubular outer wheel spanning member having a receiving end and a handle end; an elongate inner wheel spanning member having an entry end and an outwardly protruding end, the entry end being telescopingly fitted into the outer wheel spanning member receiving end; where the inner wheel spanning member protruding end has attached a first pair of outwardly opening wheel rim engaging hooks; where one of the handle end and the protruding end protrudes substantially radially from the steering wheel when the apparatus is engaged to prevent turning of the steering wheel sufficiently to drive the vehicle; and where a second pair of outwardly opening wheel rim engaging hooks is attached to the outer wheel spanning member between the receiving end and the handle end; and a key operated locking mechanism which releasibly secures the inner and outer whee
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 21, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Inventor: Henry Hsu
  • Patent number: 5771721
    Abstract: A vehicle theft prevention device is provided for use with a steering wheel assembly including a central portion with an airbag situated therein and an annular wheel with a generally circular cross-section coupled about the central portion in coplanar relationship therewith. Four linear members are interconnected at ends thereof and encompass the wheel of the steering wheel to abut a dash or windshield of the vehicle thereby precluding the rotation thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 30, 1998
    Inventor: William F. Covone
  • Patent number: 5765414
    Abstract: A steering wheel lock including a lock body having a bottom open chamber adapted to receive one three-way frame section of a steering wheel of a motor vehicle, a shackle inserted into shackle holes in the lock body and locked by a lock cylinder to firmly secure the lock body to the three-way frame section of the steering wheel, and an alarm system installed in the lock body which is disarmed when the shackle is locked, or triggered to produce an audio alarm signal through a speaker when the shackle is forced out of the locking position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 9, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Inventor: Chien-Ho Yu
  • Patent number: 5765415
    Abstract: An anti-theft device has a first elongated element formed to be arranged on top of a steering wheel and having a first forked end formed to receive one portion of a steering wheel rim between an upper prong and a lower prong of the first end, the first elongated element also having a second end, a second elongated element having a first end which is distal from the first elongated element and provided with a lock, the second elongated element also having a second forked end arranged to at least partially surround a diametrical opposite part of the steering wheel rim and also to surround a steering wheel spoke at both circumferential ends, and snapping structure formed in the second ends of the first and second elongated elements, the second elongated element being turnable relative to the first elongated element between a locking position in which the first and second elongated elements are in alignment with one another and the locking structure of the second ends snappingly lock one another and the device ca
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 16, 1998
    Inventor: Stanislav Savinsky
  • Patent number: 5755124
    Abstract: Disclosed is a lock for use on a steering wheel having an air bag to particularly protect the air bag from being accessed and stolen. The lock includes a fixing seat having two forward extended and angularly spaced hooking bars and a downward extended rear hooking plate for the seat to fitly mount on a steering wheel. The fixing seat has a middle cover plate which just covers the air bag in the steering wheel. A receiving member is provided on a top of the cover plate to pivotally receive a front driving elbow of the movable rod therein. The locking device is adjustably connected to a rear locking bar of the movable rod and can be locked thereto so that the whole lock can be adapted to a steering wheel of any type and size. A rear end of the locking device is provided with many warning lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Inventor: Chao-Ling Chang
  • Patent number: 5755122
    Abstract: Two hinged parts (12) and (14) are moved about a pivot (34) to trap a steering wheel between them. A pivotally mounted locking bar (22) on the part (12) has openings (30). The bar (22) could be swung down about its pivot (32) such that a selected one of these openings moves over a loop (28) extending on the other half (14). A padlock can then be passed through the loop (28) to lock the device in position. In a storage configuration the locking bar (28) can be swung down into the space normally occupied by the wheel and trapped between the two parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Inventor: Mark Christopher Higginson
  • Patent number: 5755123
    Abstract: A motor vehicle security device for protecting against the cutting of an automobile steering wheel which includes a protective member made of cut-resistant material for covering the steering wheel rim and a connector for attaching the protective member to the steering wheel rim. The protective member radially and circumferentially overlies the steering wheel rim to limit access to the rim and protect against cutting of the rim. The protective member is collapsible for convenient storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Assignee: Winner International Royalty Corporation
    Inventor: James E. Winner, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5737949
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for use with an automotive vehicle including members which restrict access to the front seat and dashboard areas of the vehicle when in an armed position and which may be removably stored in a non-use position when the vehicle is to be normally used. The access-restricting members are highly visible, thereby discouraging a potential thief because of the potential difficulty of removing the anti-theft device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 14, 1998
    Inventor: Howard Zenke
  • Patent number: 5735150
    Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft device including an interior locking component adapted for lockable coupling with a periphery of a steering wheel of a vehicle and an exterior component adapted for rotatable coupling with respect to the interior locking component and the steering wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Inventor: Richard M. Desouza
  • Patent number: 5735149
    Abstract: A motor vehicle security device for protecting against the cutting of an automobile steering wheel which includes a protective member made of cut-resistant material for covering the steering wheel rim and a connector for attaching the protective member to the steering wheel rim. The protective member radially and circumferentially overlies the steering wheel rim to limit access to the rim and protect against cutting of the rim. The protective member is collapsible for convenient storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 7, 1998
    Assignee: Winner International Royalty Corporation
    Inventor: James E. Winner, Jr.
  • Patent number: 5724838
    Abstract: An anti-theft device (10) for a motor vehicle (12) comprising a clamp (14) mounted in a releasable manner to a steering wheel (16) of the motor vehicle (12), to prevent rotation of the steering wheel (16). A bracket (18) pivotally extends from the clamp (14) and is connected in a releasable manner to a brake pedal (20) of the motor vehicle (12), to prevent operation of the brake pedal (20). A cover (22) is coupled to the clamp (14) and is affixed in a releasable manner about a steering column (24) of the motor vehicle (12), to prevent access to an ignition switch (26) in the steering column (24) and to prevent movement of a gearshift lever (28) on the steering column (24).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1997
    Date of Patent: March 10, 1998
    Inventor: David Alicea