Anti-theft device or system for vehicles

• US 4,403,675 A
• Filed: 09/10/1982
• Issued: 09/13/1983
• Est. Priority Date: 07/18/1977
• Status: Expired due to Fees

• Current Assignee: John A. Cardwell
• Original Assignee: John A. Cardwell
• Inventors: Cardwell, John A.
• Primary Examiner(s): SONG, ROBERT
• Application Number:
  US06/416,506
• Time in Patent Office: 368 Days
• Field of Search: 180/287, 307/10 AT, 307/103 BF, 70/255
• US Class Current: 180/287
• CPC Class Codes: B60R 25/08 operating on brakes or brake systems

Abstract

A theft prevention device or system for vehicles permits a vehicle engine to be kept running when the ignition key is switched off and removed. The device includes a relay and momentary switch means, and is activated by engaging the emergency or parking brake, and actuating the momentary switch. In the activated condition, the ignition switch is bypassed, and the relay is energized through a circuit that includes a switch activated by the parking brake. If the parking brake is released without reinserting the key and closing the ignition switch, the ignition system is de-energized. Normal running operation is restored by inserting the ignition key and closing the ignition switch.

Claims

1. In a vehicle having an engine ignition system controlled by a key-actuated ignition switch, the improvement comprising selectively controllable means for bypassing said ignition switch to permit opening of the ignition switch and removal of the key without de-energizing the ignition system but de-energizing the ignition system upon attempted operation of the vehicle while the ignition switch is open, said selectively controllable means comprising a first switch means constructed and arranged to be activated by movement of a vehicle operational component to a position which precludes normal operation of the vehicle, second switch means actuatable by the vehicle operator, and means responsive to activation of said first switch and actuation of said second switch when said ignition switch is closed for bypassing said ignition switch so long as said first switch remains activated, and regardless of the state of said ignition switch and said second switch, whereby the ignition switch can be opened and the key removed without de-energizing the ignition system, and attempted operation of the vehicle by movement of said component to a position which does not preclude vehicle operation will de-energize the ignition system unless said ignition switch is closed.

2. Apparatus as claimed in claim 1 wherein said vehicle operational component is a parking or emergency brake.

3. Apparatus as claimed in claim 2 wherein said second switch means is a momentary switch.

4. Apparatus as claimed in claim 3 wherein said responsive bypassing means comprises a solenoid relay connected to said ignition system and said first and second switch means and controlling a switch bypassing said ignition switch.