Abstract: Vehicle identification number (VIN) data acquisition and stamping center control, wherein a main computer supplies VIN data to a PLC disposed at the stamping center, and the PLC stores a quantity of VIN data, up to a predetermined maximum, in an input buffer memory of the PLC in order to permit the stamping center to continue operating even when the network connection with the main computer is broken. The PLC also includes an output buffer memory in which stamped VINs may be stored until the network connection is restored, at which point the stamped VINs are transmitted to the main computer. Alternative semi-automatic and manual modes of operation permit the stamping center to continue operating even when the supply of VIN data from the input buffer memory is exhausted.

Abstract: An identification (ID) plate attachment structure is provided. According to this structure, adhesive agent spreads over not only one face of an attachment portion of an ID plate, but also the opposite face thereof owing to the provision of a plurality of through holes which the attachment portion of formed with. In attaching the ID plate to a mounting boss of a vehicular main component, such as, a transaxle, via a bolt, the pressure exerted by a head of the bolt in the process of tightening the bolt displace the adhesive agent disposed on the one face of the attachment portion to the side on the opposite face thereof via the through holes. Owing to the provision of the adhesive agent, a roughly equal frictional coefficient is obtained between the bolt and the attachment portion and between the attachment portion and the mounting boss and breakage of the ID plate during installation due to bolt tightening is prevented.

Abstract: An antitheft security system is disclosed for automotive, marine, and other valuable personal articles such as objects of art and valuable collectible objects. A dealer/installer is provided with equipment comprising a main unit having a memory, a keyboard for data entry, and a visual screen for monitoring the data entry procedure and also for displaying to the dealer the precise locations on the article where it is to be marked. The unit randomly selects different marking locations on the article by calling up form its memory a programmed universe of several hundred possible marking sites for each particular type of item. An image of the item is displayed on the visual screen, which indicates the exact location where each marking is to be made. The security codes are applied by a portable hand-held marking head containing an electrostatic, noncontact ink jet spraying nozzle which invisibly microprints a unique, classified security code in a dot matrix format of alphanumeric characters onto the surface.

Abstract: A method for sighting engine components in an engine compartment by first locating a desired perimeter label which is brightly colored and then to envision a straight line from that label to the respective engine component. The engine component will have detection means similar in color to the label to thereby provide immediate recognition. Certain hidden components may also be sighted with the use of two perimeter labels which have respective envisioned straight lines intersecting at the component's location.