WO1996035597A1

WO1996035597A1 - Improved anti-theft device

Info

Publication number: WO1996035597A1
Application number: PCT/US1995/014671
Authority: WO
Inventors: Anthony Licausi
Original assignee: Anthony Licausi
Priority date: 1995-05-08
Filing date: 1995-10-26
Publication date: 1996-11-14
Also published as: AU4234696A

Abstract

The first embodiment of the present invention relates to an anti-theft device capable of engaging a middle portion of a steering wheel containing an air bag device. This device includes an air bag cover having a front portion, a first side portion and a second side portion. The first side portion and the second side portion both extend backward from the front portion. A stabilizing member for engaging a steering column and attached to the first side portion of the air bag cover. A bracket member attached to the air bag cover for securing the airbag cover to the steering wheel. The alternative embodiment of the present invention relates to an improved anti-theft device capable of being secured to the steering wheel of a vehicle. This device includes a yoke member that has a U-band member, which mounts the yoke member to a steering column. An ignition shield which extends backward from the yoke member for enclosing an ignition switch on the steering column. An ignition cover which extends outwardly from the ignition shield and is adopted to cover an ignition switch on a dashboard. An air bag cover adapted to engage the center portion of the steering wheel and is attached to the yoke member. A U-strap bracket attached to both the yoke member and the air bag cover.

Description

i TITLE: IMPROVED ANTI-THEFT DEVICE

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates generally to an ant-theft device, more particularly, the present invention relates to a device that is adapted to be removably and/or hingedly and/or fixedly secured to the steering wheel of a vehicle enclosing the ignition switch and preventing the rotation of the βsteering wheel, this device further capable of enclosing the air bag device contained in the center portion of the steering wheel.

BACKGROUND ART

The prior art discloses a number of anti-theft devices that are mounted to the steering wheel of a vehicle. A number of these devices engage the steering wheel in some fashion for preventing lthe rotation of the wheel. While the rest of the disclosed devices enclose the ignition switch of a vehicle for denying access to the ignition switch. Often these prior art devices do not work very well and are difficult to mount to the steering wheel. Also, these prior art devices do not prevent the theft of an air bag device contained within the center portion of the steering wheel. Therefore, there exists a need for an easy to use all purpose anti-theft device that can also prevent the theft of 6an air bag device.

Numerous innovations for anti-theft devices have been provided in the prior art that are described as follows. Even though these innovations may be suitable for the specific individual purposes to which they address, they differ from the present invention as hereinafter contrasted.

The present invention is an improvement of U.S. Patent No. 5,113,674 to LiCausi, which ldiscloses a yoke and bent bracket combination that is mounted to the steering column for preventing the rotation of the steering wheel and enclosing the ignition switch on the steering co_umr This patent differs from the present invention because a device with an air bag cover that can enclose the center portion of the steering wheel and a flange for enclosing an ignition switch on the dashboard is not disclosed. 6 U.S. Patent No. 5,212,970 to Harrell, U.S. Patent No.5,343,721 to Calnen, U.S. Patent No. 5,353,614 to Anderson each disclose an anti-theft device. Harrel discloses an enclosure that is mounted to the steering wheel for enclosing the ignition switch on the steering column or the ldashboard. Calnen discloses a housing for enclosing an ignition switch that is held in place by cables fitting around the steering column. Anderson discloses a flat circular cover that is held in place over the front portion of the steering wheel by a plate section and bar assembly, wherein the device prevents the rotation of the wheel.

These patents differ from the present invention because they do not disclose a device having 6an air bag cover that can enclose the center portion of the steering wheel, a yoke member and a bracket member that can removably and/or hingedly and/or fixedly secure the air bag cover and yoke member to the steering wheel.

Numerous innovations for anti-theft devices have been provided in the prior art that are adapted to be used. Even though these innovations may be suitable for the specific individual purposes to 1 which they address, they would not be suitable for the purposes of the present invention as heretofore described.

DISCLOSURE OF INVENTION

In according with the first embodiment of the present invention, the improved anti-theft device includes an air bag cover, a yoke member and a U-strap bracket The air bag cover consisting of βa front portion and two side portions, which is adapted to engage a center portion of a steering wheeL The yoke member which is adapted to be mounted to the steering column and is removably and/or hingedly and/or fixedly attached to the air bag cover. The yoke member further having an ignition shield that is adapted to enclose an ignition switch on the steering column and an ignition cover that is adapted to cover an ignition switch on the dashboard. The U-strap bracket member 1 which secures both the air bag cover and the yoke member to the steering wheel assembly.

Broadly considered, the first embodiment invention comprises an anti-theft device that can be easily be secured to the steering wheel of a vehicle. When installed, the air bag cover encloses the center portion of the steering wheel which can prevent the theft of the air bag device. The air bag cover further preventing the rotation of the steering wheel, which is an additional anti-theft feature. βThe yoke member capable of enclosing an ignition switch on the steering column or on the dashboard prevent tampering.

Accordingly, it is an object of the first embodiment invention to provide an anti-theft device.

More particularly, it is an object of the first embodiment invention to provide a device that is adapted to be removably and/or hingedly and/or fixedly secured to the steering wheel of a vehicle lto enclose the center potion of the steering wheel.

In keeping with these objects, and with others which will become apparent hereinafter, one feature of the first embodiment invention resides, briefly stated, is that it can prevent the theft of an air bag device.

When the air bag anti-theft device is designed in accordance with the first embodiment βinvention, it can provide a simple and affective measure against vehicle theft.

In accordance with another feature of the first embodiment invention is that it can lock the steering wheel in place.

Another feature of the first embodiment invention is that it can enclose an ignition switch on the steering column or on the dashboard of a vehicle. 1 Yet another feature of the first e-nbodiment invention is that it is of a simple design making the air bag ant-theft device easy to install.

Another feature of the first embodiment invention is that the it is a modestly costing device.

In an alternative embodiment the present invention, the air bag anti-theft device includes an air bag cover consisting of a front portion and two side portions adapted to engage and enclose the βcenter portion of a steering wheel, wherein the first side portion has a stabilizing member that engages a side of the steering column and the second side portion also encloses the ignition switch. A bracket member having two legs that is removably and/or hingedly and/or fixedly attached to the air bag cover.

Broadly considered, the alternative embodiment invention comprises an anti-theft device that lean be easily be secured to the steering wheel of a vehicle. When installed, the air bag cover enebses the center portion of the steering wheel which can prevent the theft of the air bag device. The air bag cover further engages the steering column preventing the steering wheel from rotating and also is capable of enclosing the ignition switch on the steering column which prevents tampering. The bracket member removably and/or hingedly and/or fixedly connected to the air bag βcover will secure it to the steering wheel.

Accordingly, it is an object of the alternative embodiment invention to provide an anti-theft device.

More p-UTJcularly, it is an object of the alternative embodiment invention to provide an air bag anti-theft device. 1 In keeping with these objects, and with others which will become apparent hereinafter, one feature of the alternative ernbodiment invention resides, briefly stated, is that it can prevent the theft of an air bag device.

When the air bag anti-theft device is designed in accordance with the alternative embodiment invention, it can provide a simple and affective measure against vehicle theft. 6 In accordance with another feature of the alternative embodiment invention is that it can lock the steering wheel in place.

Another feature of the alternative embodiment invention is that it can enclose the ignition switch.

Yet another feature of the alternative embodiment invention is that it is of a simple design 1 making the air bag ant-theft device easy to install.

Another feature of the alternative embodiment invention is that the it is a modestly costing device.

The novel features which are considered characteristic for the first and alternative embcκϋment invention are set forth in the appended claims. The first and alternative embodiment invention itself, βhowever, both as to their construction and method of operation, together with additional objects and advantages thereof, will be best understood from the following description of the specific embodiments when read and understood in connection with the accompanying drawings

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS FIGURE IA is a perspective view of the air bag cover 12 of the first embodiment of the lpresent invention.

FIGURE IB is a perspective view of the lock 16 of the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIGURE 1C is a perspective view of the bracket member 14 of the first embodiment of the present invention 6 FIGURE 2 is a left side perspective view of the first embodiment of the present invention exhibiting: a steering wheel containing the air bag device.

FIGURE 3 is a left perspective view of the first embodiment of the present invention exhibiting: an air bag anti-theft device secured to the steering wheel. 1 FIGURE 4 is a right perspective view of the first embodiment of the present invention exhibiting: an air bag anti-theft device secured to the steering wheel

FIGURE 5 is a top perspective view of the first embodiment of the present invention exhibiting: an air bag anti-theft device secured to the steering wheel.

FIGURE 6 is an exploded view of the alternative embodiment of the present invention βexhibiting: an improved anti-theft device adjacent to the steering wheel of the vehicle.

FIGURE 6A is rear view of the alternative embodiment of the present invention exhibiting: a yoke member.

FIGURE 7 is a left perspective view of the alternative embodiment of the present invention exhibiting: an improved anti-theft device secured to the steering wheel 1 FIGURE 8 is a right perspective view of the alternative embodiment of the present invention exhibiting: an improved anti-theft device secured to the steering wheel.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Firstly, referring to FIGURES IA, IB, and 1C which are perspective views of the air bag cover 12, lock 16, and bracket member 14, respectively of the first embodiment of the present invention. 6 The air bag cover 12 consists of the front portion 12B, first side portion 12C, second side portion 12A and stabilizing member 12D. The first side portion 12C and second side portion 12A are substantially parallel to each other and each extend backward from one of the side edges of the front portion 12B. This configuration allows the air bag cover 12 to engage and enclose the center portion of the steering wheel 18A (shown in FIGURE 2) containing the air bag device. The air bag 1 cover 12 encbsing the center portion of the steering wheel 18A will deny access to this part of the vehicle, which will prevent the theft of the air bag device.

The second side portion 12A must be of a length that will allow the second side portion 12A to extend backward encbsing the ignition switch on the steering column 20 of the vehicle (shown in FIGURE 5). The second side portion 12A enclosing the ignition switch will prevent tampering, βwhich is a further feature of the air bag anti-theft device 10.

Contained within the rear-upper portion of both the first side portion 12C and second side portion 12A is a bracket slot 12F. The bracket slot 12F on the first side portion 12C extends into the stabilizing member 12D as shown. Both bracket slots 12F allow the bracket member 14 to be 1 attached to the air bag cover 12. Extending outward from both the upper edges of both the first side portion 12C and second side portion 12A is a side flange 12G. Both side flanges 12G increase the surface area of the upper edge of both the first side portion 12C and second side portion 12A, which makes them stronger and harder to cut.

Attached to the rear edge of the first side portion 12C is the stabilizing member 12D. The βstab-lizing member 12D engages the left side of the steering column 20 (shown in FIGURE 2) which functions to stabilize the air bag cover 12 on the steering wheel 18 (shown in FIGURE 2). The stabilizing member 12D when engaged to the steering column 20 will further prevent the rotation of the steering column 18 which is another feature of the air bag anti-theft device 10. The stabilizing member 12D consists of the front flange 12DA which extends outward 1 approximately at a right angle from the rear edge of the first side portion 12C and the side flange 12DB which extends backward approximately at a right angle from the first edge of the front flange 12DA. The stabilizing member 12D further includes a top flange 12DC which is attached squarely to both the top edge of the front flange 12DA and side flange 12DB, and a bottom flange 12DD which is also squarely attached to the both the bottom edge of the front flange 12DA and side βflange 12DB. The above discussed flanges are attached to each other at right angles so that the stabilizing member 12D will engage the three surfaces of the steering column 20 squarely.

Contained within the side flange 12DB is the first notch 12DE and second notch 12DF. The first notch 12DE is positioned within the upper portion of the rear edge of the side flange 12DB to allow an accessory lever such as a tilt wheel lever (not shown) to pass through. The second notch 12DF lis positioned within the middle portion of the rear edge of the side flange 12DB to allow the signal lever 22 (shown in FIGURE 2) to pass through.

The air bag cover has five embossments 12E stamped into its surface. Two embossments are contained within the front portion 12B (shown in FIGURE 3), and one embossment is contained within each of the first side portion 12C, second side portion 12A and side flange 12DB. The βembossments strengthen the air bag cover 12, which allows it to be fabricated from a thinner material Also, the air bag cover 12 has protective trim 13 on its upper and lower edges. The protective trim 13 protects the steering wheel 18 of the vehicle from damage.

The bracket member 14 which is adapted to be attached to the air bag cover 12 functions to secure the air bag cover 12 to the steering wheel 18. The bracket member 14 consists of the first lleg 14A, nose portion 14B and the second leg 14C. The first leg 14A and second leg 14C are substantially parallel to each other and are connected to each other by the nose portion 14B. The nose portion 14B is shown extending downward from the first leg 14A and second leg 14C.

The nose portion 14B provides added lateral strength to the bracket member 14. Because of the nose portion 14B configuration, it requires a greater force to pry the first leg 14A and second leg 614C apart, than if both legs were connected to each other by just a straight portion. Contained within the first distal end of both the first leg 14A and second leg 14C are the bracket orifices 14D. Both bracket orifices 14D are substantially aligned to each other to allow a locking means to pass through them.

Both the air bag cover 12 and bracket member 14 can be fabricated from various types of rigid Imetals or metal alloys. Although, preferably the air bag cover 12 and bracket member 14 should be fabricated from a low carbon cold rolled steel The air bag cover 12 preferably should be fabricated from a low carbon cold rolled steel having a thickness of 3/32 of an inch, while the bracket member should be fabricated from the same material having a thickness of 3/16 of an inch. After the air bag cover 12 and bracket member 14 are fabricated from the low carbon rolled steel, βthey will be hardened by a case hardening process.

The lock 16 secures the bracket member 14 to the air bag cover and is an embodiment of the locking means. The lock 16 has two lock channels 16A and two lock cylinders 16B. The lock channels 16A are configured to receive the ends of the first leg 14A and second leg 14C of the bracket member 14.The lock cylinders 16B are capable of moving inward within the locking 1 channels 16A passing through the bracket orifices 14D, thereby securing the ends of the first leg 14A and second leg 14C therein.

Referring to FIGURE 2 which is a left side perspective view of the first embodiment of the present invention exhibiting: a steering wheel 18 containing the air bag device. The center portion of the steering wheel 18A contains the air bag device. The steering wall 18 is shown rotated βapproximately forty-five degrees from the straight position so that the center portion of the steering wheel 18A is vertical lengthwise. The air bag anti-theft device 10 can only be installed when the steering wheel 18 is in this position.

Referring to FIGURE 3 which is a left perspective view of the first embodiment of the present invention exhibiting: an air bag anti-theft device 10 secured to the steering wheel 18. The air bag lcover 12 is engaging and enclosing the center portion of the steering wheel 18A. The stabilizing member 12D squarely engages the left side of the steering column 20. Because the stabilizing member 12D squarely engages the steering column 20, it cannot be forced to slip and allow the steering wheel 18 to rotate. The signal lever 22 is passing through the second notch 12DF.

Referring to FIGURE 4 which is a right perspective view of the first embodiment of the present βinvention exhibiting: an air bag anti-theft device 10 secured to the steering wheel 18. The second side portion 12A extends backward enclosing the ignition switch on the steering column 20. The bracket member 14 is attached to the air bag cover 12, by placing the second leg 14C within the two bracket sbts 12F as shown. Both ends of the first leg 14A and second leg 14B are in a position to be secured within the lock lό.The nose portion 14B is of a length to extend downward over the 1 second side portion 12A, which acts as a barrier to prevent tools such as bolt cutters from trying to cut or damage the second side portion 12A. The nose portion 14B is further configured to allow the transmission lever 24 to pass through it.

Referring to FIGURE 5 which is a top perspective view of the first embodiment of the present invention exhibiting: an air bag anti-theft device 10 secured to the steering wheel 18. From this view βboth side flanges 12G are shown extending outward from the top edges of both the first side portion 12C and second side portion 12A. The first feg 14A and second leg 14B are secured within the lock 16, which will secure the bracket member 14 to the air bag cover 12.

When installing the air bag anti- theft device 10, the steering wheel 18 of the vehicle must be rotated approximately 45 degrees from the straight position as shown in FIGURE 2. Then the air lbag cover is placed over the center portion of the steering wheel 18 A, thereby engaging the air bag cover 12 thereon. The second leg 14C is then slid into both bracket slots 12F attaching the bracket member 14 to the air bag cover 12 as shown in FIGURE 4. Then the lock 16 is placed within both bracket orifices 14D, thereby securing the air bag cover 12 to the steering wheel 18.

Referring to FIGURE 6 which is an exploded view of the alternative embodiment of the present βinvention exhibiting: an improved anti-theft device 110 which includes the air bag cover 122, yoke member 124 and the U-strap bracket 126 adjacent to the steering wheel 112 of the vehicle.

The steering wheel 112 has a center portion 112A that contains an air bag device. The steering wall 112 is shown rotated approximately forty-five degrees from the straight position so that the center portion of the steering wheel 112A is vertical lengthwise. The improved anti-theft device 110 lean only be installed when the steering wheel 112 is in this position. The steering wheel 112 extends back until it meets the front surface of steering column 116. Because the rear surface of the steering wheel 112 is smaller than the front surface of steering column 116, the outer portion of the front surface of steering column 11 B is exposed, which is utilized by the present invention.

The steering column 116 extends back until it meets the dashboard 120. Located on the steering βcolumn is the ignition switch 116A. Located on the rear portion of the steering column 116 is the second ignition switch 118, which is a dotted representation of a ignition switch in that position. Located on the dashboard 120 is the third ignition switch 120A, which is a dotted representation of an ignition switch in that position. The ignition switch 116 A, second ignition switch 118 and the third ignition switch 120A correspond to the different positions an ignition switch can be placed

11 within a vehicle.

The air bag cover 122 consists of the front portion 122B, first side portion 122A, second side portion 122C, U-flange 122D and second flange 122E. The first side portion 122A and second side portion 122C each extend backward from one of the side edges of the front portion 122B. This configuration allows the air bag cover 122 to engage the center portion of the steering wheel 112A

16 when moved in the directions of the arrows. When engaged, the air bag cover 122 will enclose the center portion of the steering wheel 122A which will deny access to this part of the vehicle, which wϋl prevent the theft of the air bag device. The air bag cover 122 is also configured to prevent the steering wheel 112 from rotating, when the anti-theft device 110 is assembled and secured to the steering wheel 112.

21 The U-flange 122D is attached to the first side portion 122A and is adapted to receive the front leg 126A attaching the first side portion 122A to the U-strap bracket 126. The U-flange consists of the rear flange 122DA extending outward at a right angle from the first side portion 122A and the side flange 122DB extending forward at a right angle from the rear flange 122DA as shown. The second flange 122E which extends outward at a right angle from the second side portion 122C

2 βattaches the second side portion 122C to the yoke member 124.

Located on the front portion 122B are two embossments 122F stamped into its surface. The embossments 122F strengthen the air bag cover 122, which albws it to be fabricated from a thinner materiaL The air bag cover 122 also has the protective trim 128 attached to the bottom and top edges of the air bag cover 122. The protective trim 128 will prevent the edges of the air bag cover

31122 from damaging the steering wheel 112 1 The yoke member 124 includes the U-band member 124A, which serves as a rigid frame for the yoke member 124. The yoke member 124 including a top leg 124AA which has a top slot 124AC at its first distal end and a bottom leg 124AB which has a bottom slot 124AD also at its first distal end. The top leg 124AA and bottom leg 124AB are substantially parallel to each other and mount the yoke member 124 to the steering column 116, when the yoke member 124 is moved in the βdirection of the arrows. The top sbt 124AC and bottom sbt 124AD are substantially aligned within each other and attach the U-strap bracket 126 to the yoke member 124. Extending inward at a right angle from the front edge of the U-band member 124A is the U-band flange 124B. The U-band flange 124B functions to secure and stabilize the yoke member 124 over the front portion of the steering column 116. 1 The base 124C which is attached to the rear inner surface of the U-band member 124A reinforces the U-band member 124A to prevent the top leg 124AA and bottom leg 124AB from being pried apart.

The captivator 124D is attached to the front of the base 124C and is adapted to receive the second flange 122C of the air bag cover 122, thereby attaching the air bag cover 122 to the yoke βmember 124. The captivator 124D consists of the front wall 124DA extending forward at a right angle from the straight edge of the base 124C and the side wall 124DB extending inwardly at a right angle from the front wall 124DA. The top wall 124DC is squarely attached to the top edge of both the front wall 124DA and the side wall 124DB. While the bottom wall 124DD (shown in FIGURE 6 A) is squarely attached to the bottom edge of both the front wall 124DA and the side 1 wall 124DB. Contained within the front wall 124DA and the side wall 124DB is the captivator opening 124DE, which provides an opening for accessory levers to pass through.

Attached to the rear of the base 124B is the ignition shield 124E, which has a square configuration that extends backward. The ignition shield 124E is adapted to enclose the ignition switch 116A when the yoke member 124 is mounted to the steering column 116, thereby preventing βtampering. Referring to FIGURE 6A, The ignition shield consists of the shield wall 124EA, top shield wall 124EB and bottom shield wall 124EC. The shield wall 124EA extends backward at a right angle from the rear of the base 124B. Attached between the top edge of the shield wall 124EA and the rear edge of the top leg 124AA is the top shield wall 124EB. While Attached between the bottom edge of the shield wall 124EA and the rear edge of the bottom leg 124AB is the bottom lshield wall l24EC.

Referring back to FIGURE 6, the ignition cover 124F which extends outwardly at a right angle from the rear edge of the shield wall 124EA. The ignition cover 124F which is a rectangular member is configured to lay over the dashboard 120 covering either the second ignition switch 118 or the third ignition switch 120A when the yoke member 124 is mounted to the steering column

6116. This will prevent tampering with the either of the second ignition switch 118 or the third ignition switch 120A.

The top support member 124FA and bottom support member 124FB reenforce the ignition cover 124F, which prevents it from being pried away when in position over the dashboard 120. The top support member 124FA extends downward from the top edge of the ignition cover 124F and lis attached to the shield wall 124EA. While the bottom support member 124EB extends upward from the bottom edge of the ignition cover 124F and is also attached to the shield wall 124EA.

The protective trim 128 is also attached to the portion of the U-band flange 124B attached to the top leg 124AA and bottom leg 124AB of the yoke member 124. The protective trim 128 will prevent damage to the steering column 116 when the yoke member 124 is attached thereon. 6 The U-strap bracket 126 consists of the front leg 126A, nose portion 126B and the rear leg 126C. The front leg 126A and rear leg 126C are substantially parallel to each other and are connected to each other by the nose portion 126B. The nose portion 126B extends forward from the front leg 126A and rear leg 126C as shown.

The nose portion 126B provides added lateral strength to the U-strap bracket 126. Because of lthe nose portion 126B configuration, it requires a greater force to pry the front leg 126A and rear leg 126C apart, than if both legs were connected to each other by just a straight portion. Contained within the bottom distal end of the front leg 126A is the front orifice 126AA, while contained in the bottom distal end of the rear leg 126C is the rear orifice 126CA. The front orifice 126AA and the rear orifice 126CA are substantially aligned to each other to allow a locking means to pass βthrough them.

The U-strap bracket 126 is configured to be attached to both the air bag cover 122 and the yoke member 124, thereby securing the improved anti-theft device 110 to the steering wheel. This is accomplished by moving the U-strap bracket in the direction of the arrows, where the front leg 126A is placed within the U-flange 122D of the air bag cover, and the rear leg 126C is placed 1 within both the top slot 124AC and bottom slot 124AD of the yoke member 124.

Both the air bag cover 122, yoke member 124 and bracket member 126 can be fabricated from various types of rigid metals or metal alloys. Although, preferably the air bag cover 122, yoke member 124 and U-strapped bracket 126 should be fabricated from a low carbon cold rolled steel. The air bag cover 112 and the yoke member 124 preferably should be fabricated from a low carbon βcold rolled steel having a thickness of 3/32 of an inch, while the U-strapped bracket 126 should be fabricated from the same material having a thickness of 3/16 of an inch. After the air bag cover 122, yoke member 124 and U-strapped bracket 126 are - bricated from the low carbon rolled steel, they are preferably hardened by a case hardening process.

Referring to FIGURE 7 which is a left perspective view of the alternative embodiment of the Ipresent invention exliibiting: an improved anti-theft device 110 secured to the steering wheel 112.

The air bag cover 122 is engaging the middle portion of the steering wheel 112A. The U-strap bracket 126 is attached to the air bag cover 122, by the front leg 126A being contained within the U-flange 122D. The front leg 126A is retained within the U-flange 122D by the rear surface of front leg 126A contacting the front surface of the rear flange 122DA. 6 The U-strap bracket 126 is also attached to the yoke member 124, by the rear leg 126C being contained within both the top slot 124AC and bottom slot 124AD of the yoke member 124.

The ball padlock 130 is contained within both the front orifice 126AA and the rear orifice 126CA of the yoke member 124, which locks the air bag cover 122, yoke member 124 and the U- strap bracket 126 to the steering wheel 112. The ball padlock 130 is an embodiment of the locking 1 means. The preferred locking means is a ball padlock made by the company Meroni-Luccotto.

Referring to FIGURE 8 which is a right perspective view of the alternative embodiment of the present invention exhibiting: an improved anti-theft device 110 secured to the steering wheel 112.

The yoke member 124 to is shown mounted to the steering column 116, by the top leg 124AA and bottom leg 124AB engaging the top and bottom surface of the steering column 116. Also, the U- βband flange 124B is contacting the outer portion of the front surface of steering column 116B,

• thereby securing and stabilizing the yoke member 124 over the front portion of the steering column 116. The ignition shield 124E is in position on the side of the steering column 116 enclosing the ignition switch. The ignition cover 124F is in position in front of the dashboard 120, which would cover an ignition switch positioned as either the second ignition switch 118 or third ignition switch 1120A.

The air bag cover 122 is attached to the yoke member 124, by the second flange 122E being contained within the captivator 124D. The second flange 122E is secured within the captivator 124D by the front surface of the second flange 122E contacting the rear surface of the side wall 124DB. Because the first side portion 122A is secured to the U-strap bracket 126 and the second βside portion 122C is secured to the yoke member 124, the air bag cover 122 will prevent the steering wheel 112 from rotating, thereby locking the steering wheel 112 in the position shown.

When installing the improved anti-theft device 110, the steering wheel 112 of the vehicle must be rotated approximately 145 degrees from the straight position as shown in FIGURE 6. Then the air bag cover 122 is placed over the center portion of the steering wheel 112A, thereby engaging 1 the air bag cover 122 thereon.

The yoke member 124 is then slid into position over the front portion of the steering column 116 and the second flange 122E of the air bag cover 122 is also placed within the captivator 124D. The U-strap bracket 126 is then moved into position, wherein the front leg 126A is placed within the U-flange 122D and the rear leg is placed within both the top slot 124AC and bottom slot 124AD. βThe ball padlock 130 is then placed within the front orifice 126AA and the rear orifice 126CA, thereby locking the improved ant-theft device 110 to the steering wheel 112.

It wul be understood that each of the elements described above, or two or more together, may also find a useful application in other types of constructions differing from the type described above.

While the invention has been illustrated and described as embodied in an air bag anti-theft device, lit is not intended to be limited to the details shown, since it will be understood that various omissbns, modifications, substitutions and changes in the forms and details of the device illustrated and in its operation can be made by those skilled in the art without departing in any way from the spirit of the present invention.

Without further analysis, the foregoing will so fully reveal the gist of the present invention that βothers can, by applying current knowledge, readily adapt it for various applications without omitting features that, from the standpoint of prior art, fairly constitute essential characteristics of the generic or specific aspects of this invention.

What is claimed as new and desired to be protected by Letters Patent is set forth in the appended claims. 1 INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The present invention is primarily utilized to prevent car theft and air bag theft which occurs in all industrialized countries. By utilizing the present invention vechicle theft and air bag is reduced and concurrently vechicle insurance premium is reduced to the consumer. The present invention can be sold as an accessory in automotive parts stores as well as be provided βas a feature when a consumer purchases a new automobile.

Claims

1 CLAIMS

1. An improved anti-theft device including a yoke member that has a U-band member, the

U-band member having a top and bottom leg that mounts the yoke member to a steering column, a base contained within the rear portion of the U-band member for reenforcing therein, an ignition βshield extending backward from the base for enclosing an ignition switch on the steering column, wherein the improvement comprises: a) an ignition cover extending outwardly from the ignition shield and is adopted to cover an ignition switch positioned on a dashboard;

b) an air bag cover adapted to engage the center portion of the steering 1 wheel and attached to the yoke member, the air bag cover having a front portion, a first side portion and a second side portion, the first side portion and the second side portion both extending backward from the front portion; and

c) a U-strap bracket removably attached to both the yoke member and the air bag cover.

2. The improved anti-theft device of claim 1, which further comprises a U-band flange that extends inwardly from a front edge of the U- band member for stabilizing the yoke member on the steering column.

3. The improved anti-theft device of claim 1 , wherein the ignition cover is a rectangular member extending outwardly at right angle from a rear edge of a shield wall of the ignition shield.

4. The improved anti-theft device of claim 3, wherein a top support member is attached to the shield wall and extends downward from a top edge of the ignition cover and, a bottom support member is attached to the shield wall and extends upward from a bottom edge of the ignition cover.

5. The improved ant-theft device of claim 1 , wherein the steering wheel is prevented from rotating by the air bag cover being attached to both the U-strap bracket and the yoke member.

6. The improved anti-theft device of claim 1, wherein the air bag cover is configured so that the first side portion extends backward from a first side edge of the front portion and the second side portion extends backward from a second side edge of the front portion.

7.The improved anti-theft device of claim 6, wherein the second side portion of the air bag cover is attached to the yoke member.

8. The improved anti-theft device of claim 7, wherein the air bag cover has a second flange extending outward from the second side portion.

9. The improved anti-theft device of claim 8, wherein the yoke member has a captivator attached to the base of the U-band member, the captivator adapted to receive the second flange to attach the second side portion to the yoke member, the captivator further having a captivator opening to allow an accessory lever to pass through.

10. The improved anti-theft device of claim 9, wherein the captivator consists of a front wall extending forward from a straight edge of the base, a side wall extending inward from the front wall, a top wall attached to the top edge of both the front wall and the side wall, and a bottom wall attached to the bottom edge of both the front wall and the side wall.

11. The improved anti-theft device of claim 10, wherein a front surface of the second flange of the air bag cover contacts a rear surface of the side wall of the captivator for retaining the second flange within the captivator.

1 12. The anti-theft device of claim 11, wherein the air bag cover has at least two embossments.

13. The improved anti-theft device of claim 1, wherein the U-strap bracket includes a front leg, a rear leg and a nose portion that extends forward from the front leg and the rear leg.

14. The improved anti-theft device of claim 13, wherein the first side portion of the air bag βcover is attached to the U-strap bracket.

15. The improved anti-theft device of claim 14, wherein the air bag cover has a U-flange attached to the first side portion, the U-flange adopted to receive the first leg of the U-strap bracket to attach the first side portion to the U-strap bracket.

1 16. The improved anti-theft device of claim 15, wherein the U-flange includes a rear flange extending outward from the first side portion and a side flange extending forward from the rear flange, a front surface of the rear flange contacts a rear surface of the first leg of the U-strap bracket which retains the first leg within the U-flange.

17. The improved anti-theft device of claim 16, wherein the first distal end of the top leg of the yoke member has a top sbt contained therein and the first distal end of the bottom leg of the yoke member has a bottom slot contained therein, the rear leg of the U-strap bracket contained within both the top slot and bottom slot attaching the U-strap bracket to the yoke member.

18. The anti-theft device of claim 17, wherein a bottom distal end of the first leg has a front orifice contained therein and a bottom distal end of the rear leg has a rear orifice contained therein.

19. The anti-theft device of claim 18, which further comprises a locking means contained within the front orifice and the rear orifice.

1 20. The anti-theft device of claim 1, wherein the air bag cover, yoke member and the U- strap bracket are fabricated from low carbon cold rolled steel.

21. An anti-theft device comprising:

a) an air bag cover adapted to engage a middle portion of a steering wheel containing an air bag device, the air bag cover having a front portion, a β first side portion and a second side portion, the first side portion and the second side portion both extending backward from the front portion;

b) a stabilizing member for engaging a steering column and attached to the first side portion of the air bag cover; and

c) a bracket member attached to the air bag cover for securing the air bag cover to the steering wheel.

22. The anti-theft device of claim 21, wherein the first side portion extends backward from the first side edge of the front portion and the second side portion extends backward from the second side edge of the front portion.

23. The anti-theft device of claim 22, wherein the first side portion and second side portion are parallel.

24. The anti-theft device of claim 23, wherein the second side portion is of a length to encbse an ignition switch located on the steering column when the air bag cover engages the center portion of the steering wheel.

25. The anti-theft device of claim 21 , wherein a first side flange extends outward from a top edge of the first side portion and a second side flange extends outward from the top edge of the second side portion.

1 26. The anti-theft device of claim 25, wherein the stabilizing member is attached to a rear edge of the first side portion.

27. The anti-theft device of claim 26, wherein the stabilizing member includes a front flange that extends outward from the rear edge of the first side portion, a side flange that extends backward from the front flange, a top flange attached to a top edge of both the front flange and the

6side flange, a bottom flange attached to a bottom edge of both the front flange and the side flange.

28. The anti-theft device of claim 27, wherein a first right angle is formed between the first side portion and the front flange, a second right angle is formed between the front flange and the side flange.

29. The anti-theft device of claim 28, wherein a rear edge of the side flange has a first 11 notch and a second notch contained therein.

30. The anti-theft device of claim 29, wherein the air bag cover has a plurality of embossments.

31. The anti- theft device of claim 21, which further comprises a protective trim attached to the an upper edge and a lower edge of the air bag cover.

16 32. The anti- theft device of claim 21, wherein the bracket member includes a first leg, a second leg and a nose portion that extends downward from the first leg and the second leg.

33. The anti-theft device of claim 22, wherein the first leg and the second leg are paralleL

34. The anti-theft device of claim 23, wherein a first distal end of the first leg has a first bracket orifice contained therein and a first distal end of the second leg has a second bracket orifice

♦

21 contained therein.

1 35. The anti-theft device of claim 24, wherein the first bracket orifice and the second bracket orifice are aligned with each other.

36. The anti-theft device of claim 25, wherein the bracket member is secured to the air bag cover by a first bracket sbt contained within the first side portion of the air bag cover and a second bracket slot contained within the second side portion of the air bag cover, the second leg of the βbracket member contained within both the first bracket slot and the second bracket slot

37. The anti-theft device of claim 26, wherein the nose portion is of a length to extend downward over the second side portion of the air bag cover forming a barrier to tools thereon.

38. The anti-theft device of claim 27, which further comprises a locking means contained within the first bracket orifice and the second bracket orifice.

39. The anti-theft device of claim 21, wherein the air bag cover and the bracket member are fabricated from low carbon cold rolled steel