The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document.
The patent badge is an abbreviated version of the USPTO patent document. The patent badge covers the following: Patent number, Date patent was issued, Date patent was filed, Title of the patent, Applicant, Inventor, Assignee, Attorney firm, Primary examiner, Assistant examiner, CPCs, and Abstract. The patent badge does contain a link to the full patent document (in Adobe Acrobat format, aka pdf). To download or print any patent click here.
Patent No.:
Date of Patent:
Mar. 01, 2011
Filed:
Feb. 24, 2006
Applicants:
Andrew J. Vitale, Peoria, IL (US);
Brian G. Funke, Peoria, IL (US);
Inventors:
Andrew J. Vitale, Peoria, IL (US);
Brian G. Funke, Peoria, IL (US);
Assignee:
Caterpillar Inc., Peoria, IL (US);
Attorney:
Primary Examiner:
Assistant Examiner:
Int. Cl.
CPC ...
G06F 3/00 (2006.01);
U.S. Cl.
CPC ...
Abstract
A work machine uses an operator presence detection strategy to enable or disable the work machine. A plurality of sensors provide independent indications of operator presence. These sensors may include a seat sensor, an inching pedal sensor, a transmission output speed sensor and a conveyance gear sensor. The work machine is enabled if at least one sensor indicates the presence of an operator; however, the work machine is disabled if none of the sensors indicate an operator.