US4040007A
Expired / Lapsed
US
⏱️ 0.0 years remaining
Apparatus for warning that a key-operated device in a vehicle is inoperative
Assignee: Minebea AccessSolutions Inc
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Filing: 1976-02-03
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Granted: 1977-08-02
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Expires: 1996-02-03
Abstract
Abstract An apparatus for warning that a key-operated device in a vehicle is inoperative. The vehicle is provided with a warning buzzer connected in series with one or more door switches that are closed by opening a door. A vibrating member of the buzzer is so arranged that the same is restrained by a control pin which is moved with the key-operated device provided on the vehicle. Additional, optional features of the apparatus are also disclosed.
Inventors
- 👤 Shigenobu Kuroki
Bibliographic Details
Application Number
—
Jurisdiction
US
Data Source
google_patents
Last Synchronized
2026-11-04 19:33
CPC Classifications
B; B60; B60R; B60R25/00; B60R25/01; B60R25/02; B60R25/021; B60R25/0211; B60R25/02115; B60R25/02126; B60R25/02128
Claims Analysis
Total Claims: 9
Claim 1
Independent Claim
152 words
An apparatus for warning that a key-operated device in a vehicle is inoperative where said vehicle has a door and normally open switch means adapted to be closed when said door is opened, said apparatus comprising: a. a warning buzzer having a vibratory member for emitting a warning when said door is open and said key-operated device is inoperative, said vibratory member being actuable upon closing of said switch means; and b. a control pin interposed between said vibratory member and said key-operated device, said control pin being movable in response to movement of said key-operated device, and said control pin being arranged to move from a first position when said key-operated device is operative and in which said control pin mechanically restrains said vibratory member from vibrating to a second position when said key-operated device is inoperative and in which said vibratory member is free of restraint by said control pin.
Claim 2
Independent Claim
152 words
An apparatus for warning that a key-operated device in a vehicle is inoperative where said vehicle has a door and normally open switch means adapted to be closed when said door is opened, said apparatus comprising: a. a warning buzzer having a vibratory member for emitting a warning when said door is open and said key-operated device is inoperative, said vibratory member being actuable upon closing of said switch means; and b. a control pin interposed between said vibratory member and said key-operated device, said control pin being movable in response to movement of said key-operated device, and said control pin being arranged to move from a first position when said key-operated device is operative and in which said control pin mechanically restrains said vibratory member from vibrating to a second position when said key-operated device is inoperative and in which said vibratory member is free of restraint by said control pin.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
36 words
The apparatus as defined in claim 1, wherein said control pin is so arranged that it is movable via a contact member that is slidable by its contact with a key insertable in said key-operated device.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
52 words
The apparatus as defined in claim 1, wherein said key-operated device constitutes a burglar-resistant apparatus including means for locking a steering shaft of said vehicle to prevent its rotation, said control pin being movable via a lock pin which forms part of said burglar-resistant apparatus and is engageable with said steering shaft.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
34 words
The apparatus as defined in claim 1, wherein said buzzer is attached to a casing of said key-operated device, thereby allowing said control pin to be mechanically ganged with the mechanism of said buzzer.
Claim 6
Dependent Claim
29 words
The apparatus as defined in claim 1, wherein said key-operated device includes a cylinder lock, an operational rod extending integrally therefrom, and an electric switch connected with said rod.
Claim 7
Dependent Claim
27 words
The apparatus as defined in claim 5, wherein said key-operated device further includes a lock pin for said steering shaft, operable by turning of said operational rod.
Claim 8
Dependent Claim
57 words
The apparatus as defined in claim 6, wherein said cylinder lock is provided with an engaging member arranged to be advanced by the action of a cam plate which latter is in engagement with said lock pin, and a lever arranged to be moved by the insertion of a key, for preventing retraction of said engaging member.
Claim 9
Dependent Claim
46 words
The apparatus as defined in claim 6, wherein said cylinder lock is provided with a contact member projecting into a keyhole, and a slidable member in engagement with said contact member through a contact ball, said slidable member having a surface for guiding said control pin.
References Cited (Backward Citations)
USPTO Annuity & Maintenance Windows
| Annuity Stage | Window Opens | Payment Deadline | Surcharge Period Until | Estimated Fee | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 Years (Year 4) | 1980-08-01 | 1981-01-31 | 1981-08-02 | $2000.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 7.5 Years (Year 8) | 1984-08-01 | 1985-01-31 | 1985-08-02 | $3760.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |
| 11.5 Years (Year 12) | 1988-08-01 | 1989-01-31 | 1989-08-02 | $7700.00 | Window Closed / Lapsed |