Catalytic converter anti-theft system
US12415477B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 5, 2023 |
| Grant date | Sep 16, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 2, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF01N2260/22
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An electrically conductive circuit has a distal end coupled to a catalytic converter of a vehicle. A sensor such as a voltage divider is coupled to a proximal end of this conductive circuit. The voltage divider senses when a resistance associated with the conductive circuit is altered, indicative of catalytic converter tampering. An alarm signal can then be sent to the vehicle horn or otherwise beneficially outputted to warn of the tampering. The conductive circuit preferably includes a length of nichrome wire having a substantial resistance. Reliable electrical connection and tampering avoidance can be provided at the distal end of the nichrome wire by utilizing an electrically conductive washer at the distal tip, covering the nichrome wire with high temperature insulating tape, overlying the tape with a pipe clamp and encapsulating the washer, distal end of the nichrome wire, insulating tape and pipe clamp with a high temperature bonding adhesive.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.