Method and apparatus for enabling and disabling certain functions of an automobile
US6664888B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 16, 1998 |
| Grant date | Dec 16, 2003 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 16, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB60R2325/202
- WIPO fieldTransport
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An apparatus and method designed for use with a vehicle that remotely activates an audio warning device prior to disabling the ability for the driver to start the vehicle. The apparatus is installed in the vehicle and includes a special pager receiver that decodes paging messages sent from a paging transmitter site. The pager receiver is electrically connected to a controller which interprets the coded message. An in-vehicle digital radio transmitter then sends a wireless transmission to digital radio receivers installed in the vehicle. Each digital radio receiver is incorporated in a package that includes an electrical connection to an electromagnetic relay. The relay is plugged into the electrical circuits of the vehicle which activate certain devices or functions, such as the starter motor, ignition system, power door locks, headlamps, horn, and other system that may use electrical relays. The digital radio receivers decode the transmissions from the in-vehicle transmitter and decide whether to open or close their respective relays, thus disabling or enabling certain devices or functions in the vehicle. The invention finds applicability for use by lender institutions in order to…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.