Communications: electrical – Land vehicle alarms or indicators – For bicycle
Reexamination Certificate
1999-02-11
2001-02-20
Lieu, Julie (Department: 2736)
Communications: electrical
Land vehicle alarms or indicators
For bicycle
C340S427000, C340S539230, C070S233000, C070S434000, C070S439000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06191685
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
1. Field of the Invention
Embodiments of the present invention relate to anti-theft devices for bicycles.
2. Related Art
As an introduction to the problems solved by the present invention, one may consider the fact that the bicycle anti-theft devices that are currently available, conventional cable lock and U-lock type devices, can be broken by using either bolt-cutters or metal cutting saws. Thieves have become proficient at rapidly removing these types of locks, making them less than fully secure. Crime statistics of rampant and widespread bicycle theft in the United States confirm that bicycle thefts typically are carried out by cutting of a conventional bicycle lock.
In view of the problem described above, the need exists for a better means of securing bicycles and deterring thieves.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
Accordingly in the present invention, a loud alarm is connected to or mounted in a bicycle frame and is operatively connected to a bicycle lock and/or to parts of the bicycle, in such a way that the lock or bicycle parts may not be significantly tampered with or removed without triggering the alarm. The alarm system is adapted to sound if the lock is tampered with or if sensors transmit a signal that a bicycle part is being tampered with. In one group of externally-mounted embodiments, both the alarm unit and sensors and cables are mounted on the outside of the bicycle. In these externally-mounted units, the alarm includes a weather-proof casing, which contains a unique clamping feature that makes the alarm tamper-resistant or tamper-proof. The alarm casing may contain a sound chamber that preferably amplifies the alarm sound, waterproofs the alarm component, and prevents a thief from muffling the sound. In another group of internally-mounted embodiments, the alarm is mounted inside the bicycle frame and sensors are mounted on the various bicycle parts that are frequently stolen, preferably with the sensors and wiring on the external surfaces of the bicycle, or, less-preferably, with the sensors and wiring in the internal channels of the bicycle frame and components.
According to one aspect of the invention, the alarm unit is preferably connected to a U-shaped lock on the bicycle, by means of a cable comprising multiple wires in parallel conductors. The cable has a connector at each end, which connect the alarm to the lock but which can only be removed when the alarm is disabled. If the cable is disconnected when the alarm is enabled, the alarm will be triggered. Also, a novel means of connection of the multiple wires in the cable prevents theft by presenting a challenge to those attempting to cut the connection between the alarm and lock.
According to another aspect of the invention, the alarm casing may only be opened by a special key. This key provides access to the alarm battery and mounting means. If alarm unit removal is attempted by abusive means, such as by prying or hammering, internal momentary switches will trigger the alarm.
In embodiments in which the built-in alarm unit is fitted internally in the frame tube of the bicycle, sensors are preferably mounted on the handle bar stem, the seat post, and on each wheel hub that prevent those vehicle parts from being removed without triggering the alarm.
In yet other embodiments of the invention, an optional transmitter, mounted inside of the alarm unit will send a signal to the bicycle owner's alarm receiver whenever the alarm is triggered.
According to another aspect of the present invention, the alarm device preferably acts also as a horn. The horn feature is enabled whenever the alarm is disabled, and vice versa, resulting in the invention having dual uses for added convenience and economy.
These and other embodiments, aspects, advantages and features of the present invention will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will become apparent to those skilled in the art by reference to the following description of the invention and referenced drawings, or by practice of the invention. The aspects, advantages and features of the invention are also realized and attained by means of the instrumentalities, procedures, and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims.
REFERENCES:
patent: 5270681 (1993-12-01), Jack
patent: 5408212 (1995-04-01), Meyers et al.
patent: 5534847 (1996-07-01), McGregor
patent: 5955965 (1999-09-01), Calandruccio
Theofanous Vickie
Tikkanen Paul
Lieu Julie
Pedersen Barbara S.
Pedersen Ken J.
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