For Automotive Vehicles Patents (Class 70/237)
  • Patent number: 6439012
    Abstract: The invention is a non-slip, dual leg pedal lock for securing one or more pedals and pedal arms of an automobile to prevent the theft of the automobile, the pedal lock a pair of dual leg shaft components, a locking slide bar component, a pedal engaging component and a keyed lock which engages both of the dual leg shaft components for double security locking the pedal to the floor of an automobile in a non-slip attachment to the vehicle floor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Inventor: Dennis Quiang Chen
  • Patent number: 6434979
    Abstract: A clutch lock for preventing starting or operation of a recreational vehicle. The clutch lock includes a clutch member, a locking mechanism, and a handle. The clutch member includes two legs, connected at one end, to form a U-shape. The clutch member is placed through the housing on a vehicle's clutch. The locking mechanism operates to connect the two open ends of the legs of the clutch member to fix the clutch lock to the clutch housing. The lock is operable between a locked position where the clutch lock is fixed to the clutch housing and an open position where the locking mechanism may be removed to allow removal of the clutch lock. The handle extends away from the clutch member such that it makes contact with the frame of the vehicle to prevent the clutch from rotating and, thus, the vehicle from starting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventors: Joseph Edward Allen, Chad Anton Armstrong
  • Patent number: 6434980
    Abstract: A tire clamp for immobilizing a vehicle including a fixed bar having a generally L-shaped configuration. The fixed bar is comprised of a horizontal segment and a vertical segment. The horizontal segment is comprised of an inner portion and an outer portion. The inner portion has a plurality of sharpened teeth extending downwardly therefrom. The vertical segment has an inwardly angled lower portion. The fixed bar is positionable with respect to a tire with the horizontal segment disposed above and extending across the tire with the plurality of teeth abutting the tire and pointed thereat. A movable bar has an inwardly angled lower portion and is coupled with the fixed bar and is slidably mounted thereon. The movable bar is positionable with respect to a tire with both inwardly angled lower portions positioned against an exterior of the rim the tire is mounted on while the sharpened teeth remain oriented toward and abutting the tire.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2002
    Inventor: Robert Foster
  • Publication number: 20020104343
    Abstract: The invention relates to a closure mechanism (1) for a vehicle door, having disposed on the inner face of the vehicle door a mounting bracket (2) for the attachment of an external door handle (3) and of a locking cylinder (5) which is joined to an actuating lug (8) adapted to be swivelled against the pressure of a return spring (10).
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Publication date: August 8, 2002
    Inventors: Dittmar Schwab, Holger Schiffer
  • Patent number: 6422050
    Abstract: A burglarproof locking device for handle and airbag of vehicle comprises a first panel and a second panel. The first panel is of plate shape and has a hollow chamber therein. The first panel has a first L-shape hook and a key unit. The key unit is operated to control movement of a sliding block in retractable manner. The second panel is of plate shape and has a plurality of clamping parts corresponding to the sliding block. The second panel has a second L-shape hook. One end of the second panel is inserted into the hollow chamber of the first panel in a telescopic manner. The key unit is operated to control the sliding block to lock into one of the clamping parts.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 11, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Inventor: Hui I Ho
  • Publication number: 20020078724
    Abstract: A tail gate locking apparatus whose operational modes can be selectively switched to make an opening of the tail gate possible or impossible from inside the vehicle is disclosed to prevent the tail gate from being dangerously opened by children's wrong manipulation, the apparatus comprising: a base plate; a latch lever rotatively installed at the base plate in connection to a latch device by a latch rod; a control lever rotatively installed at the base plate to rotate the latch lever; an inside lever rotatively installed at the base plate with one side thereof being connected with an inside cable; and rotational force controlling means coupled between the control lever and inside lever to selectively switch a state of unblocking or blocking transmission of rotational force of the inside lever to the control lever.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 14, 2001
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Inventor: Jin-Su Choo
  • Patent number: 6405571
    Abstract: A cable drive assembly 102 for a motor vehicle locking system is described. A lock mechanism 104 is mounted on a first carrier 108. The first carrier is connected to a second carrier 110 by a cable, such that turning of an appropriate key in the lock causes the first carrier to rotate. In turn this causes the second carrier to rotate. Rotation of the second carrier causes a latch mechanism remote from the locking system to be actuated. The first carrier is held in a first position within a housing prior to insertion of the lock mechanism. Insertion of the lock mechanism during assembly of the locking system frees the carrier and allows it to rotate in response to turning of the lock mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: MG Rover Group Limited
    Inventor: Barry Tyas
  • Patent number: 6401503
    Abstract: A vehicle steering wheel lock comprises a first plate and a second plate that can be engaged onto a steering wheel of a vehicle for protecting the vehicle or an air bag in the steering wheel from being stolen. The first plate and the second plate can be engaged with each other in a manner having a smaller overall area for convenient storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Inventor: Tsann-Hwang Lin
  • Patent number: 6397645
    Abstract: A vehicle anti-theft accelerator lock for preventing the accelerator pedal of a vehicle from being depressed by a person attempting to steal the vehicle. The vehicle anti-theft accelerator lock includes a base assembly including a base member being adapted to be securely attached to a floor of a vehicle, and also including a shoe support member being securely fastened with fasteners to the base member; and further includes a shoe member being adapted to cover an accelerator pedal of the vehicle and being adapted to lockingly mount to the base assembly for preventing unauthorized use of the accelerator pedal; and also includes a locking member for locking the shoe member to the base assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Inventor: Deloash Grant, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6390222
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for use with a pedal operated vehicle having a pedal lever. The device includes a housing member secured to the interior of a vehicle adjacent the pivotal point of the pedal lever. The housing member has a first bore housing a sliding rod. The rod moves from a retracted position to an extended position. In the extended position, the rod protrudes from the housing member for a predetermined distance and engages the pedal lever. A mechanically controlled pin engages the rod in the extended position to keep it in the extended position. With the pin engaging the rod, the rod prevents a driver from pressing down upon the pedal lever. Thus, disabling the operation of the vehicle. The normal operation of the pedal lever is restored when the pin disengages the rod, enabling the rod to freely retract into the first bore of the housing member. The movement of the rod is triggered by either air from an air compressor or by the force of a solenoid located behind the rod.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventor: Christopher Cornelius
  • Patent number: 6389858
    Abstract: A lock structure for a steering wheel. Pivot axles of the lock structure are used to connect a wheel with the seat of the steering wheel so that the steering wheel can be turned to a desired angle. A locking component fixes the angular position of the wheel. The entire steering wheel can make engagement between the wheel and a dashboard or other peripheral devices of the seat of the steering wheel and effectively disable the steering wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventor: Chun-Chang Lee
  • Publication number: 20020056298
    Abstract: A vehicle door lock apparatus includes a lever mechanism directly connected with a key cylinder provided at the outside door handle for locking and unlocking the vehicle door in response to rotation operation of the key cylinder. The lever mechanism is provided with a key rotor directly connected with the key cylinder, and a key lever directly connected with the key rotor. An input shaft of the lever mechanism formed by the key rotor is inclinable relative to an output shaft of the lever mechanism formed by the key lever, and this inclination is absorbed through the connection between the key rotor and the key lever.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2001
    Publication date: May 16, 2002
    Inventors: Katsutoshi Fukunaga, Makoto Suzumura, Ryujiro Akizuki, Norio Konomoto, Akira Muramatsu, Shigeru Hayakawa, Yasuhiko Sono
  • Publication number: 20020050156
    Abstract: A so-called super-lock condition of a door lock is achieved with a simple and compact construction. The door lock includes first and second lock/unlock mechanisms which establish the super-lock condition when assuming lock conditions respectively. The first and second lock/unlock mechanisms are actuated by an electric actuator mounted to the door lock. In a housing of the electric actuator, there are installed first and second electric motors and first and second operation levers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 26, 2001
    Publication date: May 2, 2002
    Applicant: OHI SEISAKUSHO CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Fumio Kobayashi, Ryoji Shimura
  • Patent number: 6360568
    Abstract: An automobile steering lock includes a sector-shaped cover, a locking device combined on the cover and a press rod. The locking device has a lock rod, a disc and a fix block fixed on the cover. And the disc has a hole for the lock rod to move through back and forth by rotating a key for locking and unlocking quickly. The cover can hide the safety air bag and the steering wheel at the same time, and the press rod presses the panel board, so the lock can lock at three directions to elevate locking effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 11, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2002
    Inventor: Tian-Yuan Chen
  • Patent number: 6349580
    Abstract: A lock for a steering wheel of a vehicle includes a body and a catch, wherein the body consists of a holding portion, a lock core and a rod, the catch is slidingly mounted around the rod, a retaining plate of the catch is extendable into a locking groove defined in the holding portion corresponding to the retaining plate, a lock block of the lock core is extendable into a lock hole defined in the retaining plate of the catch corresponding to the lock block to retain the catch in a lock mode. When a steering wheel is fitted in the holding portion and obstructed by the retaining plate which is inserted into the locking groove and locked therein, the rod is pressed against an interior part of the vehicle, thereby the steering wheel is retained in a non-rotatable position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2002
    Inventor: Fu-Sheng Kuo
  • Patent number: 6348857
    Abstract: A warning device for door lock of car. The door lock has a driving motor to drive a driven shaft to lock the door of the car, and a locking shaft passing through a through hole on the driven shaft. The warning device for door lock of car is characterized in that the through hole is lengthened to form a triggering space and a sensor is provided within the triggering space. When the puller is pulled by external force, the sensor arranged within the triggering space generates a signal to a controlling IC and the controlling IC triggers a driving circuit. The driving circuit drives a loud speaker to alarm the car owner.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Inventor: Tzu-Lung Hsu
  • Patent number: 6343494
    Abstract: The locking device (10) for doors, in particular of vehicles, has an inside door opener and an outside door handle (12) which can be used to actuate at least one lock for locking the door. Locking devices of this type are conventionally very complicated mechanically, since the mechanical connection between the outside door handle (12) and the lock is meant to be uncoupled as a function of various functional positions. In order to reduce the mechanical complexity, only the inside door opener should act mechanically on the lock, and the outside door handle (12) should act via an electric control on an actuating drive (18), which actuates the lock. In this case, the opening command is instigated only if at least one defined allowable precondition is present. The required additional functions of locking devices can very easily be controlled by the electric control, so that additional mechanical elements are not required.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2002
    Assignee: Mannesmann VDO AG
    Inventors: Martin Roos, Dirk Hipp
  • Patent number: 6334345
    Abstract: A multi-sectional extendible lock structure for steering wheels. The structure includes a base portion having an inner space formed therein and having a fixing hook on the tailing end thereof; a middle rod section telescopically extending in the inner space of the base portion and also having an inner space with a fixing hook in opposition to the fixing hook on the base portion; a tailing rod section telescopically extending in the inner space of the middle rod section; a core rod extending in the tailing rod section and forming engagement between the middle rod section and the tailing rod section; and a lock barrel provided on the base portion with a locking pin thereof extending into the inner space of the base portion to make engagement with the middle rod section.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Assignee: Tung Chu International Inc.
    Inventor: Chun-Chang Lee
  • Publication number: 20010045113
    Abstract: A cable drive assembly 102 for a motor vehicle locking system is described. A lock mechanism 104 is mounted on a first carrier 108. The first carrier is connected to a second carrier 110 by a cable, such that turning of an appropriate key in the lock causes the first carrier to rotate. In turn this causes the second carrier to rotate. Rotation of the second carrier causes a latch mechanism remote from the locking system to be actuated. The first carrier prior is held in a first position within a housing prior to insertion of the lock mechanism. Insertion of the lock mechanism during assembly of the locking system frees the carrier and allows it to rotate in response to turning of the lock mechanism.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 1999
    Publication date: November 29, 2001
    Inventor: BARRY TYAS
  • Patent number: 6321580
    Abstract: A device that fits over a fixture, such as a toilet. It uses a number of articulated members that align with the rim of the bowl. A center star gear is used to pull all the members inward, tightly against the rim. The members are designed to fit over the rim to ensure a tight fit that is not easily defeated by prying from the underside, for example. A lock is used to prevent removal of the device. Finally, the device can be designed to fit over sinks and urinals as well.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventor: Gary W. Olson
  • Publication number: 20010035033
    Abstract: The invention relates to a lock device, in particular for doors of motor vehicles, having lock elements such as at least rotary latch and pawl, in which at least one lock element (pawl 1) can be connected via connecting elements with at least one handle or such connection can be eliminated, characterized by the fact that an actuator device has a cam disk (6) the connection being made or eliminated as a function of the cam disk (6).
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 28, 2001
    Publication date: November 1, 2001
    Applicant: Mannesmann VDO AG
    Inventor: Torsten Wegner
  • Publication number: 20010027668
    Abstract: A device for blocking the turnability of the steering spindle 3 of a motor vehicle contains a movable interlocking element 14 that is situated in a lock chamber 12 and engages into the steering spindle 3 in its locked position, as well as an actuating device 9 for actuating the interlocking element 14. This device is characterized by the fact that the lock chamber 12 is passively secured against manipulative access by electric/electronic operating components K required for driving the motor vehicle. This is realized by arranging these operating components K in such a position relative to the lock chamber 12 that the function of at least one operating component K is terminated if manipulative access is attempted.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2001
    Publication date: October 11, 2001
    Inventors: Harald Donner, Werner Volmer, Dipl.-Ing Jorg Welschholz, Bernhard Schambeck
  • Patent number: 6298696
    Abstract: A device to lock a brake or clutch pedal of a vehicle so as to deter theft of the vehicle includes a base for placement on the floor of the vehicle beneath the pedal of the vehicle being locked and beneath a pedal shaft supporting the pedal. The device includes a generally U-shaped housing with a second leg attached to the base, a first leg shorter than the second leg, and a cross member connecting the first and second legs to define an opening between the first leg and the base and a slot between the first and second legs to receive the pedal shaft and permit travel of the pedal shaft through the slot. A locking mechanism includes a locking pin and a lock. The locking pin is selectively movable on the U-shaped housing between a raised locked position sufficiently close to a lower side of the pedal shaft to prevent the pedal shaft from being operably depressed, i.e.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2001
    Inventor: Robert A. Vito
  • Publication number: 20010022051
    Abstract: A door assemble for vehicles includes a space defined between a door inner panel and a door trimming, in which a door locking device for holding a vehicle door on a vehicle body is accommodated so as to be secured on the door inner panel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 1999
    Publication date: September 20, 2001
    Inventors: RYOICHI FUKUMOTO, MOTOHIRO KOKUBO, MASAYUKI UCHITSUNEMI, KEIICHI FUKUSHIMA, HIROSHI TAKAI, DAIICHI SHIRAISHI
  • Patent number: 6282930
    Abstract: A diametric style steering wheel lock is disclosed having improved strength and resistance to forced removal, while, at the same time, demonstrating increased ease in actual use. The steering wheel lock utilizes an enclosed and protected dead bolt locking system providing positive and powerful diametric fixation of the device across a vehicle steering wheel. Although dead bolt operation is employed, the device demonstrates free rotation of one or both steering wheel rim engagement means facilitating placement of the device. In addition, the steering wheel lock advantageously incorporates longitudinally aligned adjustment and locking grooves located upon the surface of the locking rod to provide quick, keyless application of the lock including, extension, contraction and rotation further facilitating positioning thereof. Push-to-engage means as well as automatic dead bolt engagement is disclosed in the disclosed embodiments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 4, 2001
    Inventors: Richard L. Strauss, Alex Nyirucz
  • Patent number: 6237377
    Abstract: The lower section of the L-shaped truck/camper security bar inserts into an existing load-leveling type trailer hitch and can be locked into place with an existing trailer hitch lock. The upper section extends vertically along the rear of the vehicle to block the pulling down action that would open the tailgate and to block the lifting up action that would open the camper top rear window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2001
    Inventor: Robert Joseph Vasquez, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6230530
    Abstract: An apparatus for use with a control switch of a machine, such as an ignition switch of a motor vehicle, and with a locking device that is used to secure the machine when the machine is not in operation includes a covering that is detachably-attachable with respect to the control switch and the locking device. The covering is disposed in one of two positions. It is disposed in a first position over the control switch so as to prevent use of the control switch when the locking device is attached to the machine or it is disposed in a second position over a portion of the locking device so as to prevent use of the locking device when the locking device is not attached to the machine. When the covering is disposed over the control switch it serves as a reminder indicating that the locking device is attached to the machine. Alternative embodiments are described that provide various ways for making the covering and for attaching it to the control switch and to the locking device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 15, 2001
    Inventors: Che Ram Souza Voigt, Ronald Glen Bond
  • Patent number: 6202456
    Abstract: An anti-theft device for locking the foot pedal of a vehicle against depression toward the underlying floorboard of the vehicle comprises a base for engaging the floorboard beneath the foot pedal, a tubular body extending upwardly from said base and having an upper end spaced above the pedal arm and a slot extending from the base toward the upper end, a locking rod slidably received in the tubular body and having a hook extending outwardly through the slot and providing an upwardly open recess with said body for receiving the foot pedal arm, and a key operated lock for releasably holding the locking rod in a position relative to the tubular body in which the hook precludes displacement of the foot pedal toward the floorboard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: Winner International Royalty LLC
    Inventor: Robert V. Vickers
  • Patent number: 6199415
    Abstract: A motor vehicle security device for protecting against the cutting and/or turning of an automobile steering wheel which includes a pair of clam shell halves made of cut-resistant material for covering the steering wheel rim and an anti-rotation arm. The clam shells radially and circumferentially overlies the steering wheel rim to limit access to the rim and protect against cutting of the rim. Second and third layer motion detector, siren and lights all having a battery and a backup power source are housed in the center of the clam shells.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 13, 2001
    Assignee: Blockit & Lockit Systems
    Inventors: Harvey Keith Markegard, Joseph Michael Higgins
  • Patent number: 6192724
    Abstract: A device to lock a brake or clutch pedal of a vehicle so as to deter theft of the vehicle includes a base for placement on the floor of the vehicle beneath the pedal of the vehicle being locked and beneath a pedal shaft supporting the pedal. The device includes a generally U-shaped housing with a second leg attached to the base, a first leg shorter than the second leg, and a cross member connecting the first and second legs to define an opening between the first leg and the base and a slot between the first and second legs to receive the pedal shaft and permit travel of the pedal shaft through the slot. A locking mechanism includes a locking pin and a lock. The locking pin is selectively movable on the U-shaped housing between a raised locked position sufficiently close to a lower side of the pedal shaft to prevent the pedal shaft from being operably depressed, i.e.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Inventor: Robert A. Vito
  • Patent number: 6192725
    Abstract: A liftgate handle assembly for actuating a remotely mounted liftgate latch comprising a liftgate handle assembly including a housing having a handle pivotally mounted therein, a key cylinder rotatably mounted therein, a main lever slidably and pivotally mounted thereon, a subordinate lever mounted thereon and in pivotal communication with the main lever which is operably engageable by the handle and operably connected to the key cylinder. The liftgate handle assembly includes a cable connected between the subordinate lever and the liftgate latch. The main lever is adapted to be reciprocally slidably actuated between a locked and an unlocked mode by rotation of the key cylinder, and pivotally actuated in an unlocked mode by manually lifting the handle to move the cable via the subordinate lever to operate the liftgate latch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 27, 2001
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler Corporation
    Inventors: Earl L. Watson, Donald G. Mikolai
  • Patent number: 6189647
    Abstract: An anti-theft steering wheel has a box-like housing in its central transverse hub portion disposed below the plane of the surrounding annular steering wheel ring portion. The housing is secured to the steering shaft upper end to rotate therewith and has a pair of parallel spaced longitudinal tubular passageways. A pair of metal security rods telescopically mounted in the tubular passageways are movable between a fully retracted position within the tubular passageways and a fully extended position extending radially outward from laterally opposed sides of the steering wheel central transverse hub portion a sufficient distance beyond the annular ring portion to obstruct and prevent effective rotation of the steering wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2001
    Inventors: William S. Horn, III, Richard B. Lee
  • Patent number: 6155086
    Abstract: A steering shaft lock for heavy-duty trucks having a steering shaft and accessible universal joint. The steering shaft lock has an elongated member and a flexible member attached to one end of the elongated member. The elongated member is steel bar-like member and the flexible member is a link-chain type member having one or more apertures or links. The elongated member is adapted to engage a spaced defined in the universal joint and protrude therefrom. The flexible member is adapted to lockingly engage the outer perimeter of the elongated member (at the point of its protrusion) with a locking device, such as a padlock. The steering shaft is locked by moving the flexible member toward the protrusion of the elongated member and placing the shackle of a locking device through one aperture of the flexible member and over the outer perimeter of the elongated member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2000
    Inventor: Richard E. Miller
  • Patent number: 6148840
    Abstract: The valve operating device comprises in a housing a valve operating member, which is movable in a compartment in the housing and at its underside has a generally cone-shaped recess, and an operating rod, which is in engagement with the recess with one end and with the other end is in contact with a valve actuating pin of a vehicle air valve, on which the device is mounted. It has a locking sleeve axially movable in the housing and being arranged coaxially with the operating rod and has an internal thread for attachment to the air valve and with an abutment for engagement with a pivotable locking pin of a lock in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 21, 2000
    Assignee: Ashbourne Limited
    Inventor: Ulf Rothman
  • Patent number: 6141997
    Abstract: A semitrailer antitheft system is described for use with a semitrailer landing gear of the type having a housing-enclosed gear train coupled to a telescoping lower strut. The antitheft system includes a non-rotatable shaft-mounted gear segment for engaging the gear on the stationary shaft of the existing gear train, thereby preventing unauthorized raising or lowering of the telescoping lower strut. A lock is provided on one end of the non-rotatable shaft to prevent unauthorized disengagement of the gear segment from the gear train. The antitheft system may be incorporated into an existing housing, if room permits, or the housing may be modified so as to provide for incorporation. Alternatively, the antitheft system may be provided as an add-on kit to be attached to the existing housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2000
    Inventor: Andrew Blehi, III
  • Patent number: 6131424
    Abstract: A vehicle pedal locking device includes a multi-piece housing assembly having an internal chamber, a two-part sleeve-like pedal engaging member disposed within the housing assembly, and a lock assembly for selectively securing the housing assembly portions in a pedal-securing orientation. Housing assembly portions each include a corresponding portion of the pedal engaging member, and the pedal engaging member pieces secure opposite ends of a selected brake pedal. The lock assembly is key operated and substantially enclosed within the device outer housing. The housing internal chamber substantially surrounds the secured brake pedal and accelerator. With this arrangement, the present invention prevents unwanted pedal operation. The present invention also protects the secured pedals and included lock assembly from abuse and makes unauthorized removal of the device difficult.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Inventor: Roy J. Dixon
  • Patent number: 6125672
    Abstract: A security device for immobilizing a vehicle by securing one or more of its wheels to a fixed location. The device includes an anchorage assembly mounted on a flat horizontal surface that includes two spaced apart channels and one stopper member near to one of the channels. A central assembly with three walls, perpendicularly mounted to each other, is slidably mounted to the anchorage assembly. A holding assembly removably locks central and holding assemblies together. The central assembly has several arms that extend radially outwardly and embrace a vehicle's wheel. A reinforcing arched member connects the bent portions of the arms enhancing the structural integrity of the holding assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2000
    Inventor: Adalberto Diez
  • Patent number: 6119546
    Abstract: An apparatus is provided for use in a vehicle having a rotatable steering shaft (32) and a locking mechanism (56) for preventing rotation of the steering shaft. The locking mechanism (56) is deactivated by an ignition key (58) in the vehicle's ignition. The apparatus comprises a vehicle steering wheel assembly (20) having a front side (68) facing a driver of the vehicle and a back side facing away from the driver, an inflatable vehicle occupant protection device (90) for helping to protect the driver of the vehicle in a vehicle collision, and a mechanism (60, 110) for removably connecting the inflatable vehicle occupant protection device (90) with the steering shaft (32). The mechanism (60, 110) for removably connecting the inflatable vehicle occupant protection device (90) requires rotation of the steering wheel assembly (20) to accomplish removal of the inflatable vehicle occupant protection device from the steering shaft (32).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: TRW Vehicle Safety Systems Inc.
    Inventor: Charles E. Steffens, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6116062
    Abstract: A chock-type wheel lock has two V-shaped cradles joined at the lowermost part of the "V" horizontally at the tire's center. A sliding bar and cylinder lock engage the cradle members together. Alternatively, a series of adjustment blocks join the cradles together for differing tire sizes. The chocks may be adjustable having an axle which slides into notches in a cradle housing to provide for multi-size tire use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Assignee: Blockit & Lockit Systems
    Inventors: Harvey Keith Markegard, Joseph Michael Higgins
  • Patent number: 6112560
    Abstract: The track lock for snowmobiles is a portable anti-theft device secured to the track of a snowmobile. The device is in the form of a main arm which is longer than a standard snowmobile track. Clamps are included for securing the main bar to the track in the form of one fixed clamp and one movable clamp. A lock is provided for fixing the movable clamp in place while the device is in use. Wings extend outward from the device across outer edge sections of the track to prevent the device from being removed by cutting the track. Guards in the form of flanges are also included on the device to surround and protect the locking mechanism. A flexible member extends through the main arm and connects between the first and second clamps. The flexible member is made of a suitable high tensile strength material to resist being cut therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2000
    Inventor: Larry Mabee
  • 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: 6109078
    Abstract: A gooseneck trailer jack stand locking assembly having an extendable longitudinal locking brace extending from the gooseneck trailer coupling post hitch ball to the drop leg of the leveling jack of the trailer or alternatively to a plate attached to the underside of the trailer preventing positioning or hitching of a vehicle thereto and including a lock to prevent removal of the brace.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Bob Marshall Enterprises, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert L. Marshall
  • Patent number: 6098432
    Abstract: The invention concerns a closure with a closure cylinder whose cylinder core (33) can be moved by a key into different operating positions. The object of the invention is for at least one microswitch (50) to be actuated by switching cams (42) only once, even if the switching cam (42) continues to be moved when the microswitch (50) has been actuated. During the return movement, this microswitch (50) should not be triggered by the switching cam (42) again, and so faulty switching is avoided. To that end, a control member (40) cooperates via a separable coupling (35, 45) with a control member (40) on which the switching cam (42) is located. The control member (40) is acted upon by a restoring spring (46) which endeavors to move the control member into an initial position and simultaneously subject it to a force (43) in the coupling sense by the cylinder core (33).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Huf Hulsbeck & Furst GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventor: Wolfgang Uwe Spies
  • Patent number: 6089055
    Abstract: A device for locking the brake or clutch of a vehicle and preventing its theft comprises a base member for placement on the floorboard of a vehicle beneath a brake pedal, a U-shaped housing extending downward further comprises a first arm attached to the base and having a second shorter arm defining a gap for receipt of a brake pedal shaft, said space between the first and second arms defining a slot for receiving the brake pedal shaft and permitting its fully extension upward through said shaft, and locking means associated with the second leg for locking the underside of the pedal within the slot such that the brake pedal cannot be depressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Inventor: Robert A. Vito
  • Patent number: 6085558
    Abstract: A motor-vehicle latch assembly has a door latch displaceable between a locked and unlocked position, a housing forming a seat, a lever pivoted on the housing, and a linkage connected between the lever and the door latch for displacement of the latch between its positions by the lever. A lock cylinder can fit in the seat and with the lever and interengaging formations on the lever, housing, and cylinder retain the lever in a predetermined angular position on the housing except when the cylinder is fitted in the seat. The housing is centered on an axis and has an elastically deformable and axially rearwardly projecting tongue having a radially inwardly directed ramp surface. The lever projects radially from the housing and is formed with a radially outwardly open notch receiving the tongue in a predetermined angular position of the lever on the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Kiekert AG
    Inventor: Michael Strathmann
  • Patent number: 6085559
    Abstract: An anti-theft locking device for the accelerator pedal of a motor vehicle has rigid flat upper and lower plates, a rectangular lockbox open at both a front end and a front portion of its top and having a first pair of opposing inside ledges to receive the lower plate, and a shorter handled box that can fit into the lockbox and is open at a rear end but has a front end wall that includes an opening for the pedal arm. The handled box has a second pair of opposing inside ledges to receive the upper plate. After the plates are inserted into the lockbox and the handled box, the device is positioned around the pedal with the pedal spaced between the lower and upper plates and the pedal arm extending out of the front end of the lockbox. The handled box, perched above the lockbox in an open position, is then lowered into a closed position until the upper plate presses against the top of the pedal and the handled box is subsumed within the lockbox.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Inventor: David Jarrett
  • Patent number: 6081186
    Abstract: An electronic system of locking and alarming one or more doors such that if an attempt is made to open the door, the alarm sounds. The device is preferably installed on vehicles having multiple built-in equipment compartments. The device is powered by the vehicle battery and includes a novel lock mechanism which requires very little power. The lock mechanism comprises a lock housing, a pin, a pivoting latch gate, a switch and a solenoid. The device is electrically connected to a vehicle's conventional remote-controlled security system and sounds an alarm if an attempt is made to open a compartment door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Inventor: Morgan Allen Adams
  • Patent number: 6073470
    Abstract: A device for locking the wheel of a vehicle to prevent unauthorized movement of the vehicle. The device is particularly suited for use with trailers and other such vehicles that are often left at unguarded or remote locations. The device has a mounting member suitable for mounting on the underside of the vehicle frame or body and a locking member suitable for placement under one of the wheels of the vehicle. A connecting member interconnects and is hingedly connected to both the mounting and locking members. To allow use on a variety of vehicles, the connecting member is adjustable to vary its length and it adjustably connects to the mounting member. The hinged connections of the connecting member to the mounting and locking members allows the device to be placed in a collapsed configuration when it is not in use. A retaining pin is used to hold the device in the collapsed condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2000
    Inventors: Larry D. Burnitzki, Lorraine L. Burnitzki
  • Patent number: 6058749
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a combination anti-skid, anti-theft and vehicle lifting device. In particular, the device disclosed herein attaches easily and quickly to a vehicle tire to help extract the tire and the vehicle to which it is attached from ice, mud, snow, or other immobilizing medium. It also converts readily to a conventional vehicle lifting jack for changing tires. It also converts readily to a "tire boot" and so can be used to prevent vehicle theft. Finally, it is readily convertible to as to immobilize the vehicle steering wheel, also for theft prevention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Inventor: Edward Rekemeyer
  • Patent number: 6043733
    Abstract: A lock for a vehicle such as a motorcycle includes a housing having a U-shaped portion and a transverse portion attached thereto. A first terminal end of the U-shaped portion is removeably received within an opening on the transverse portion allowing the housing to be secured about a portion of a vehicle. Removeably received within the transverse portion is a tubular insert having a keypad thereon in communication with an audible alarm means. The alarm means is in communication with a wire disposed within the U-shaped portion for emitting an audible alarm if the U-shaped portion is severed. The alarm means also activates a cellular transmission means for automatically dialing a predetermined number upon the alarm means being activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Inventor: Carl E. Lind