Patent · US Expired

Vehicle theft detection device and method

US6950011B2 · kind B2 · utility

1Cited by
11References
15Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateFeb 18, 2003
Grant dateSep 27, 2005
Priority date
Expiry dateFeb 18, 2023

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
  • CPC primaryB60R25/102
  • WIPO fieldTransport
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A vehicle-motion based vehicle theft detection device uses preexisting vehicle motion sensors in combination with an engine immobilizer system to detect and deter potential vehicle theft. Depending on whether or not a valid ignition key is in use, the engine immobilizer system sends signals to an electronic module to enter either a “disarmed” or “armed” state. When a vehicle sensor relays a signal to an electronic module, the electronic module determines, based on this signal, if the vehicle is in motion. If a valid key is in use, the electronic module is in a disarmed state and takes no further action, as the motor vehicle is authorized for motion. If, however, a valid key is not in use, the electronic module is in an armed state, and activates the vehicle alarm system which, in turn, may activate an audible or visual alarm, activate a remote notification device, generate a tracking signal, and/or store evidence of unauthorized vehicle motion in memory.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.