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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Automotive device for inhibiting engine ignition

Patent ·
OSTI ID:6719615

An automotive device is described for preventing activation of a starter by an activator in response to untimely operation of an ignition switch following controlled dimming of a gauge warning light. The ignition switch has an OFF position and first and second active positions. The device comprises: (a) port means for electrically connecting the device to the starter, the gauge warning light, and the ignition switch; (b) first analog circuit means for supplying a voltage to the gauge warning light; (c) first digital circuit means connected to the ignition switch for outputting a first control signal to the first analog circuit means such that a constant voltage is supplied to the gauge warning light in response to the ignition switch being turned to the first active position; (d) variable timing means for outputting timing signals to the first digital circuit means such that the first control signal is supplied to the first analog circuit means for a variable length of time; and (e) second analog circuit means connected to the first analog circuit means for producing a gradual decrease in the voltage supplied by the first analog circuit means in response to the end of the first control signal.

Assignee:
NOV; EDB-87-064503; NOV-87-049462
Patent Number(s):
US 4645939
OSTI ID:
6719615
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English