Starter interlock for electronically controlled vehicle

摘要

In a vehicle in which the engine is started from a battery and in which a safety interlock prevents starting if the transmission is not in neutral, the safety interlock is of a type that latches into a condition that enables cranking to continue even when the battery voltage becomes so low that some of the control circuits would not work properly. The interlock is latched when a start command occurs if the transmission is in neutral and the clutch is disengaged. The interlock remains latched until the starting signal ceases. Limited automatic control of the engine's throttle can also be provided during cranking. If desired, the safe status of the transmission and clutch can continue to be monitored during the cranking and the interlock can be unlatched if the transmission or clutch becomes engaged.