Brake Light Patents (Class 340/479)
  • Patent number: 8204668
    Abstract: An air brake monitoring system for monitoring a pressure of the system and providing various alarms and/or warnings to a user. The air brake monitoring system configurable to function with the existing wiring of the vehicle and including an air brake monitoring device to be positioned in the vicinity of a brake valve. The air brake monitoring system is further provided to monitor the electrical stoplight power transmitted to the ABS brakes as well as the vehicle static/dynamic condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2012
    Assignee: Haldex Brake Corporation
    Inventors: James L. Greene, David G. Engelbert, Jerry J. Donovan, Thomas D. Mullikin
  • Patent number: 8144004
    Abstract: The embodiments of the invention are directed to a method and apparatus to generate pulsing lights where parameters such as frequency, degree of brightness, and the number of pulses vary depending on the duration of the brake pedal application, the time interval between consecutive brake applications, and the deceleration rate of the vehicle, as well as optionally its distance from other vehicles. The brake light control system incorporates a microprocessor having multiple inputs, including a brake pedal sensor, and its output connected via an amplifying circuit to the lights. Other inputs of the microprocessor include a deceleration sensor, a distance sensor, and an optional manual pushbutton or switch located within the driver's reach. The lights controlled by the system may include brake lights, emergency lights, or additional lights shaped into a warning triangle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2012
    Assignee: BLC Paws, LLC
    Inventors: Waldemar Polak, Adam Polak, J. Lee Edwards, Piotr Folkert, M. Lee Jones
  • Publication number: 20120056739
    Abstract: A displacement diagnosis sensor of a brake pedal having a stop lamp switch function is provided. According to the present invention, one sensor performs both a function of a stop lamp switch and a function of diagnosing a rotational displacement of the brake pedal simultaneously to thereby save a manufacturing cost and reduce a weight.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 10, 2011
    Publication date: March 8, 2012
    Applicant: DONGHEE INDUSTRIAL CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Kwanghyuck LEE, Byungju KIM
  • Patent number: 8125327
    Abstract: Vehicle brake lights, hazard lights, bicycle lights, and safety lights for pedestrians, walkers, and runners. The human eye perceives light differently depending on its frequency (or wavelength) relative to the condition or degree of ambient lighting. Moreover, the human visual system perceives changes more readily than a static scene or state. Additionally, light in the green/blue part of the visual spectrum is perceived with much greater apparent intensity compared to red, particularly in low ambient light conditions. Accordingly, a lighting system and method that includes using brake lights that provide continuous changes in color during deceleration and, moreover, that uses blue, green, blue-green, yellow-green, and amber (or yellow) light or combinations thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 28, 2012
    Inventor: Edward J. Ognibene
  • Publication number: 20120044066
    Abstract: A system for detection of braking of a vehicle may include a device provided in a first vehicle. The device may be in communication with a detector mounted to the first vehicle to monitor an area in front of the first vehicle. The detector may detect light emitted by the rear lights of a second vehicle when the second vehicle is ahead of the first vehicle in the monitored area. The device may acquire data from the detector and analyze the acquired data in order to detect an optical signal emitted by the rear lights of the second vehicle. The optical signal may encode information indicative of a braking procedure being performed by the second vehicle. The device may evaluate the detected optical signal in order to derive the information indicative of the braking procedure of the second vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2011
    Publication date: February 23, 2012
    Applicant: Harman Becker Automotive Systems GmbH
    Inventors: Hans-Peter Mauderer, Klaus Hübner
  • Patent number: 8108118
    Abstract: An air brake monitoring system for monitoring a pressure of the system and providing various alarms and/or warnings to a user. The air brake monitoring system configurable to function with the existing wiring of the vehicle and including an air brake monitoring device to be positioned in the vicinity of a brake valve. The air brake monitoring system is further provided to monitor the electrical stoplight power transmitted to the ABS brakes as well as the vehicle static/dynamic condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 31, 2012
    Assignee: Haldex Brake Corporation
    Inventors: James L. Greene, David G. Engelbert, Jerry J. Donovan, Thomas D. Mullikin
  • Publication number: 20120007731
    Abstract: The Helmet Stop Lamp is incorporated into motorcycle helmets. At the lower rear of the helmet, a horizontal array of five red LED, light-emitting diodes, are incorporated into the helmet. These diodes are powered by current from a secure plug-in jack which is incorporated into the right rear of the helmet. The jack, in turn, extends through a flexible, spiral, extensible coated wire approximately three feet in length, this wire fitted with another plug-in jack at the distal end, and this jack in turn plugs into a fitting which is wired into the bike's electrical system. Once the jacks are plugged in, the act of braking, handbrake or footbrake or both, closes a switch and creates a circuit in which current flows to the LED array at the rear of the helmet. The stronger the braking, the more current moves to the LED's, and the brighter and more intense the red lights glow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 5, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventor: Alfred Martinez
  • Publication number: 20110304455
    Abstract: An automotive brake light system producing a graduated display according to the level of vehicle deceleration as sensed by an onboard piezoelectric accelerometer. Taillight assemblies are divided into segments which are illuminated in sequence to produce a graduated display. The vehicle anti-lock brake system may be connected into the system to provide a special lighting effect such as blinking the taillights during a panic stop condition.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 11, 2010
    Publication date: December 15, 2011
    Inventor: Anthony J. KISIEL
  • Patent number: 8078353
    Abstract: A self monitoring vehicle braking system includes multiple sensors that gather data associated with the braking system. The data includes wheel speed, road inclination, moisture associated with a surface of the braking system, and audio associated with the road. A processor receives the data from the sensors and processes the data to determine whether a condition of the braking system falls within defined limits and provides to the driver of the vehicle an indication of the braking system condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: December 13, 2011
    Assignee: Freescale Semiconductor, Inc.
    Inventors: Kai Yun Yow, Poh Leng Eu
  • Patent number: 8049610
    Abstract: An Abrupt Braking Indicator (ABI) that complements a vehicle's existing rear brake light by determining the difference between regular brake pedal usage and dangerous abrupt stops or abrupt-braking that often causes accidents. It is when, and only when, an abrupt stop or hard brake occurs at the differential gravitational value of 0.5 G or more that the present invention emits highly noticeable flashing lights that warn following drivers of the sudden hazard ahead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Inventor: Mohd B. Malik
  • Patent number: 8050836
    Abstract: A method for determining whether a panic braking maneuver has been initiated in a vehicle with a brake pedal includes the steps of receiving brake pedal travel data, receiving brake pedal force data, determining a rate of change of acceleration of the brake pedal from the brake pedal travel data, determining a rate of change of acceleration of force applied to the brake pedal from the brake pedal force data, comparing the rate of change of acceleration of the brake pedal with a first predetermined value and a third predetermined value, and comparing the rate of change of acceleration of force applied to the brake pedal with a second predetermined value and a fourth predetermined value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 1, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Timothy M. Karnjate, William K. Manosh
  • Patent number: 8044790
    Abstract: A third light is added above the lower two rear turn signal lights of an automotive vehicle Detection hardware is included which senses when both lower lights begin flashing simultaneously due to activation of the vehicle's 4-way hazard warning system. Such detection also introduces current pulses to the third light which flashes simultaneously with the lower two lights to generate a triangular configuration of the three flashing lights. Retrofit circuitry is described to enable installing the modified triangular signal into existing vehicles.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 25, 2011
    Assignee: Trixcel, LLP
    Inventors: Jack A. Ekchian, Berj A. Terzian
  • Patent number: 8013759
    Abstract: A transmitter unit has a housing adapted to be coupled in association with a trailing vehicle. The housing also has a multiple axis accelerometer adapted to sense the status of the transmitter unit and a trailing vehicle. The housing also has electronic components coupled with the accelerometer. A receiver unit has a housing adapted to be coupled in association with a leading vehicle. A user in audio proximity to the receiver unit is wirelessly signaled in the event of an anomaly at the transmitter unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2011
    Inventors: James D. Aid, Norman F. Cameron, Shahid Q. Din
  • Patent number: 8009031
    Abstract: A traffic signaling device system for motorcyclists comprising a safety brake and running light assembly (34) mounted to a motorcycle jacket (88). The safety brake light has an L.E.D. housing (22) supported by an outboard support member (20) and a leather piece (18). A plurality of snap buttons (16) can be used to secure safety brake light to jacket. The safety brake light has a six-conductor coil cable assembly (12) extending outside of jacket in front thereof is connected to a control box panel (44) so that the rider can view the operation of control box panel in a convenient seated position. At one end of control box is a six-conductor cable (50) which is electrically connected thereof to the existing wiring for a tail and brake light (78), a left turn signal light (80), and a right turn signal light (81) in such vehicles. Other embodiments are described and shown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventors: Victor Manuel Pacheco, Chong Hui Kim
  • Patent number: 7982594
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus are provided for controllably illuminating automotive brake lights. In one embodiment, an automotive brake lighting system comprises a brake light including first and second light sources, a sensor to sense a level of an operating condition associated with at least one of a brake assembly or a brake pedal of a motor vehicle for illuminating the brake light, and a controller configured to monitor information provided by the sensor. The controller, in response to the level of the operating condition, selectively powers the at least one of the first or second light sources of the brake light based at least in part on the monitored information to generate a variable visual indication relating to braking of the motor vehicle from the brake light over a range of at least two different visual indications that indicate a variable braking rate of the motor vehicle over a corresponding range of at least two different braking rates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Inventor: Sanjeev Kumar Singh
  • Patent number: 7973652
    Abstract: A personal safety system is designed for a user of a vehicle. The system includes body-protective gear adapted for wear by the user of the vehicle. A sensor determines a positive or negative functional state of the body-protective gear. In the positive functional state, the body-protective gear is presumed to be properly applied to a body part of the user; and in the negative functional state, the body-protective gear is presumed to be improperly applied to the body part of the user. A transceiver is operatively connected to the sensor, and communicates the functional state of the body-protective gear to the vehicle. When the body-protective gear is in the negative functional state, operation of the vehicle is restricted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2011
    Assignee: Geared-Up Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Douglas Smith, Mike Moore, Paul Ray Martin
  • Publication number: 20110156894
    Abstract: A tail lamp system for a vehicle includes a dynamic signal unit, a control unit, a set of input lines electrically connecting the dynamic signal unit with the control unit, an LED display board, and a set of output lines electrically connecting the LED display board with the control unit. The dynamic signal unit provides a plurality of dynamic signals relating to various instant driving information of the vehicle. The control unit receives each of the dynamic signals of the dynamic signal unit and outputs a corresponding control signal. The LED display board receives the control signal from the control unit and displays a corresponding pattern according to the received control signal to indicate instant driving information of the vehicle, for example, turning, braking, temporary stop and breakdown of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 13, 2010
    Publication date: June 30, 2011
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: HOU-YAO LIN, SHENG-JUNG YU
  • Patent number: 7948366
    Abstract: A car speed alarm system is installed in a vehicle and has a modulation module and a demodulation module. The modulation module sends a car speed signal to cars behind when the car is decelerating. The cars behind use their demodulation module to read the transmitted car speed signal and notify their drivers, so that the drivers know how and when to reduce their speeds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 24, 2011
    Inventor: Shih-Hsiung Li
  • Patent number: 7944349
    Abstract: A vehicle deceleration warning apparatus is activated immediately when a driver of the vehicle intends to decelerate. The vehicle deceleration warning apparatus includes an ignition monitoring module, a first microprocessor module, a wireless transmitting module, a wireless receiving module, a second microprocessor module, and a display driving module. The ignition monitoring module receives an ignition signal and delivers it to the first microprocessor module. The first microprocessor module performs a calculation by adopting the ignition signal to generate a control signal. Then, the control signal is transmitted to the second microprocessor module wireless transmission. Finally, the second microprocessor module controls the display driving module to generate a display driving signal to a display device, such as a brake light and a warning lamp, so as to generate a warning light representing deceleration of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: X Y E Computer Co., Ltd
    Inventor: Fu-Han Liu
  • Patent number: 7932820
    Abstract: A safety helmet system for motorcycle and bicycle riders includes a lightweight impact resistant helmet having an on/off switch. A power supply lights an electroluminescent strip surrounding the outer periphery of the helmet, signaling at eye level the presence of the rider to all drivers in the vicinity. The power supply also powers a single axis accelerometer having its sensitive axis oriented along the Cycle's travel direction. A microprocessor captures maximum deceleration in a braking cycle. The captured deceleration is segmented into low, medium and high values. A plurality of LED lights are mounted on the back face of the helmet. The microprocessor turns on LED arrays to create progressively increasing LED lit areas in direct proportion with the Cycle deceleration rate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Inventor: Marni Markell Hurwitz
  • Patent number: 7932817
    Abstract: A wireless warning brake light includes a third brake light with a casing installed therein with plural LEDs and a signal receiver for detecting brake signals emitted by an emitter and for activating the LEDs. The rear side of the casing of the third brake light is provided with adhesive material for gluing the third brake light on a safety helmet. A brake light is disposed with plural LEDs and an emitter. The original brake light of a vehicle is replaced with the aforementioned brake light. When the brake light is started, the emitter will be triggered to emit a brake signal that is detected by the receiver of the third brake light, warning vehicles coming from behind. Thus, the safety of motorcyclists or of the drivers of automobiles is ensured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Inventor: James L. Chen
  • Patent number: 7928734
    Abstract: A monitoring and switching device for use with a towed vehicle includes a relay circuit that has a pair of terminals that are adapted to be connected with another circuit. A detection circuit is in communication with the relay circuit. The detection circuit can detect closing of the relay circuit and send an electrical signal that the relay circuit has been closed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 19, 2011
    Assignee: Roadmaster, Inc.
    Inventor: Robert Skinner
  • Publication number: 20110074568
    Abstract: A wireless brake light apparatus includes a brake device adapting to be connected to a handlebar of a bicycle. The brake device comprises a brake lever. A clamping member is detachably connected to the brake device. An actuator is adjustably connected to the clamping member and located beside the brake lever. The actuator has a detector disposed thereon and facing the brake lever. At least one lighting device adapts to be mounted on the bicycle and wirelessly communicated with the detector. When braking, the brake lever is simultaneously slightly moved to contact with the detector. The detector is actuated to send a radio frequency signal to the at least one lighting device for providing illumination.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 29, 2009
    Publication date: March 31, 2011
    Inventor: Johnson Li
  • Publication number: 20110057786
    Abstract: The present invention to provides an improved brake light system which provides increasing illumination with increased braking intensity. The ALERT BRAKING System is a brake light system for automotive vehicles which comprises a speed sensing device, a third brake light mounted on the rear window or either tail light, and interconnecting wiring. This third brake light actually comprises of a series of individual light bulbs, horizontally positioned in rows down the surface of the light assembly. The speed sensor is connected to a logic circuit which, in turn, is connected to the vehicle's computer. In an alternative embodiment, the ALERT BRAKING System can be programmed to be activated at predetermined speeds, with the flashing motion of the lights deactivated once the vehicle has slowed to near stop.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 3, 2010
    Publication date: March 10, 2011
    Inventor: Eugene Giddens
  • Patent number: 7893823
    Abstract: A sequential brake light system for road vehicles has a brake light array of plural lights in a linear, concentric or radial series. A master and slave controllers are connected to the array for lighting the lights in sequence and repeatedly at a rate that is proportional to a deceleration of the vehicle upon braking. A speed sensor senses the instantaneous vehicle speed and deactivates the master controller if the speed is below a threshold value so that the array is not powered in stop-and-go traffic. A brake position sensor senses a position of the vehicle brake pedal and an accelerometer measures deceleration of the vehicle, so that the master controller receives signals corresponding to the instantaneous speed of the vehicle, a signal corresponding to the position of the brake pedal and a signal corresponding to the deceleration of the road vehicle for properly warning a trailing drive of the braking condition of the road vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 22, 2011
    Inventor: Charles J. Morales
  • Patent number: 7877216
    Abstract: A brake, system, and method are presented. The brake includes friction material, a backing pad, sensor-wear material embedded within the friction material, and an electronics assembly. The electronics assembly is configured to measure a characteristic of the sensor-wear material, such as the electrical resistance or the temperature of the sensor-wear material. The sensor-wear material may be applied to the brake using a variety of approaches. A condition of the brake, such as a brake-wear value or an estimated-mileage value is determined, based on the measured characteristic of the sensor-wear material. A brake-wear state may be determined by comparing the brake-wear value to one or more thresholds. The brake-wear value, estimated-mileage value, and/or the brake wear state may be indicated on a brake-wear indicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Mark A Wright, George L Wright
  • Patent number: 7859391
    Abstract: An automated leading-vehicle message warning system for notifying a trailing vehicle of an unsafe traveling condition preferably includes a vehicle speedometer sensor and a vehicle brake system sensor. The warning system also may include a mechanism for determining whether a real-time traveling condition between the leading and trailing vehicles is a safe traveling condition by detecting whether the trailing vehicle is traveling at a minimum safe linear distance directly behind the leading vehicle upon receipt of input signals from a speedometer sensor and a vehicle brake system sensor. The warning system may also include a plurality of transducers housed in the leading vehicle that may be selectively toggled to respective activate modes such that each of the transducers generates and transmits a unique warning signal when the trailing vehicle fails to maintain the minimum safe distance from the leading vehicle during the unsafe traveling condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Inventor: Jose Solis
  • Patent number: 7857479
    Abstract: The lighted helmet apparatus provides several features that aid both the wearer and those behind the wearer. The turn signals of the helmet are importantly arrow-shaped to be easily identified by following traffic, and appropriately located on left and right sides of the helmet. The running lights of the helmet importantly provide the elevated identification of operation to following motorists. The brake lights of the helmet importantly provide easily and centrally recognized braking of the wearer. The helmet wearer is reminded of turn signal functions by the front mounted signal reminders so that turn signals are not inadvertently left on, which is often the case in motorcycle and other such vehicular operation. Flush mounting of the individual lights within the helmet are an especially attractive feature and also one that prevents damage to the lights. The Bluetoothâ„¢ inclusion in the apparatus is a further advantage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 28, 2010
    Inventor: Carlos R. Marroquin
  • Patent number: 7850349
    Abstract: A vehicle headliner mounted center high mount stop lamp (CHMSL) including a light source disposable between a vehicle roof base layer and headliner generally aft of a vehicle, and a CHMSL frame disposable between the vehicle roof base layer and the headliner adjacent the light source. The CHMSL frame may be releasably mountable to the vehicle roof base layer by a fastener for mounting the headliner to the vehicle roof base layer. The invention also provides a method of mounting and servicing a CHMSL, including the steps of attaching the CHMSL to a vehicle roof base layer and/or a headliner, such that the CHMSL is disposed between the vehicle roof base layer and the headliner generally aft of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Albert Ekladyous, Tom Partch, Todd Schwanger, Bruce Williams, Ehab Kaoud, Jim Smithbauer
  • Patent number: 7852204
    Abstract: An apparatus is disclosed where a third brake light assembly contains solar cell panel and battery where the solar cell panel charges the battery, driving light and brake light wherein the driving light draws electricity from the battery, a radio frequency receiver that activates the driving light; a radio frequency transmitter that is coupled to a vehicle driving light switch, where the radio frequency transmitter receives instruction from the driving light switch and transmits instruction to the radio frequency receiver. Likewise, a method to add driving light to a vehicle's third brake light assembly is disclosed which includes providing solar cell panel, battery, and driving light where the solar cell panel charges the battery and the battery supplies power to the driving light, and providing radio frequency transmitter that is coupled to a vehicle driving light switch and it receives instruction from the driving light switch and transmits instruction to the radio frequency receiver.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 12, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Inventor: Ching Tsung Lai
  • Publication number: 20100308989
    Abstract: A wireless light and accessory control system for golf carts (18) and other vehicles having a sender (1) that permits a user to remotely activate various accessories, such as headlights (2), turn signals (4), horns (5) and other accessories, such as radios, dome lights, etc., by sending signals via a wireless transmitter (9) located in the sender to controllers (10) located in each of the accessories. In addition, brake lights (3) may be activated and deactivated by a motion sensing means (10) in addition to being deactivated after a predetermined amount of time by a timer (11).
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 9, 2009
    Publication date: December 9, 2010
    Inventor: Joseph Gasper
  • Publication number: 20100302024
    Abstract: A signalling device is provided that includes a transmitter to be connected to a circuit for controlling at least one primary signalling light or a specific control of the cycle and, on the other hand, a receiver connected to at least one secondary signalling light, said receiver being capable of receiving a signal emitted by said transmitter in order to control the switching on and/or off of the secondary signalling light synchronously with the switching on and/or off of the primary signalling light. The secondary signalling light is positioned on a holder to be rigidly mounted on the trunk or top case. The device can particularly be used for signalling applications for motorcycles and quads, and a simpler version can be achieved by suppressing the transmitter-receiver link and implementing a direct wire connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2008
    Publication date: December 2, 2010
    Inventor: Mohamed Ait El Hadj
  • Patent number: 7839292
    Abstract: Systems and methods are disclosed to predict driving danger by capturing vehicle dynamic parameter, driver physiological data and driver behavior feature; applying a learning algorithm to the features; and predicting driving danger.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2010
    Assignee: NEC Laboratories America, Inc.
    Inventors: Jinjun Wang, Wei Xu, Yihong Gong
  • Patent number: 7834752
    Abstract: A brake-actuated message device. An illustrative embodiment of the brake-actuated message device includes a device casing having a front panel, a plurality of lights carried by the front panel, a message panel carried by the front panel generally adjacent to the plurality of lights, a message provided in the message panel, a lighting module connected to the plurality of lights and brake circuit wiring connected to the lighting module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2007
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventor: Jed K. Kuvantrarai
  • Patent number: 7834751
    Abstract: A method for controlling the brake lights of a vehicle includes determining vehicle deceleration potential and modulating brake light activation based upon the vehicle deceleration potential, the modulating comprising changing at least one of brake light intensity and flashing of the brake lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.
    Inventor: Asim Tewari
  • Patent number: 7821388
    Abstract: Embodiments for lighted see-through displays include a plurality of light elements positioned thereon at select points arranged to convey information. The light elements may be selectively lit to provide fixed or moving information, or may even be programmed to change or even display like a marquee or even a television. Particular embodiments of the invention employ a lightweight, flexible substrate to support the light elements. Other embodiments employ one or more comparatively rigid substrates supporting rows of light elements. Particular applications for the lighted sign embodiments include display in vehicle windows such as police vehicle windows, construction and utility vehicle windows, and school bus and public transportation windows. Global Positioning System and radio signal receiver components allow for regional display of pertinent information in particular embodiments of the invention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Inventors: Kenneth C. Booth, Kael Duaine Burden
  • Patent number: 7817028
    Abstract: A system and method for driving LED vehicle lights is provided, for diving an LED taillight and brake light, an LED reversing light and an LED direction indicator. The system and method uses direction indicator controller to receive the direction indicator enabling signal generated by vehicle light power controller and generate an direction indicator control signal to an enabling switch controller to avoid the flasher frequency of the direction indicator from being affected by the lighted taillight and brake light and reversing light so as to provide the driving capability that can stabilize the flasher frequency of the direction indicator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2010
    Assignee: Opto Tech Corp.
    Inventors: Ju-Yuan You, Chien-Feng Chang, Zong-Huai Lee, Chih-Hao Tseng
  • Publication number: 20100253501
    Abstract: A safety synchronized illuminated system includes wearing apparels worn on a person. A plurality of light strips is secured to the wearing apparels. The wearing apparels include jacket, helmet and a pair of gloves. A power source, CPU chip for timing, sequencer for time sequential selection and turn signal box activates the plurality of light strips in four items: jacket, helmet, a pair of boots and a pair of gloves in a one-by-one time sequential manner, and synchronized rolling fashion in light patterns and following the traffic color codes via wire or wireless link. Each of items of the apparel can be also activated individually, independently and separately. When the light strips are activated by switch and a power source, the wearing apparels worn on the person is more visible to others especially at night.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 1, 2010
    Publication date: October 7, 2010
    Inventor: DELVONO GIBSON
  • Publication number: 20100238017
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus are provided for controllably illuminating automotive brake lights. In one embodiment, an automotive brake lighting system comprises a brake light including first and second light sources, a sensor to sense a level of an operating condition associated with at least one of a brake assembly or a brake pedal of a motor vehicle for illuminating the brake light, and a controller configured to monitor information provided by the sensor. The controller, in response to the level of the operating condition, selectively powers the at least one of the first or second light sources of the brake light based at least in part on the monitored information to generate a variable visual indication relating to braking of the motor vehicle from the brake light over a range of at least two different visual indications that indicate a variable braking rate of the motor vehicle over a corresponding range of at least two different braking rates.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 3, 2010
    Publication date: September 23, 2010
    Inventor: Sanjeev K. Singh
  • Patent number: 7782185
    Abstract: The progressive brake light apparatus sequentially lights three separate brake lights via hydraulic pressure sensing of the brake system between the master cylinder and the rear brakes. The apparatus provides a brake light assembly with the three distinctly different light sources disposed within, each of different size and different color, the brightest and largest being disposed at the top of the brake light assembly and the smallest and dimmest at the bottom of the brake light assembly. The apparatus thereby provides signal to trailing vehicles of the intensity of braking force applied, and therefore with a distinct signal of only initial brake pressure, versus average stopping, versus intense braking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Inventor: Dan M. Burns
  • Patent number: 7779955
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to systems and methods designed to reduce the dangers presented by certain unintentional and intentional actions by drivers of motor vehicles, and more specifically to eliminating the panic-based, unintentional acceleration of motor vehicles by drivers in emergency situations as well as the intentional abuse of motor vehicle power by drivers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Inventor: Victor Ramon Van Saanen
  • Patent number: 7768385
    Abstract: A system includes lights coupled to a vehicle power supply source. One light is located at the vehicle's rear window. Remaining lights are independently and simultaneously operable with the one light. A mechanism is included for determining whether the vehicle is parked. Another mechanism determines whether a vehicle brake pedal has been engaged beyond a threshold level while the vehicle is not parked. A further mechanism flashes the one light and is mated to the park determining mechanism for activating the one light when the vehicle is parked and the brake pedal is engaged. The flashing mechanism is coupled to the brake pedal pressure level determining mechanism for activating the one light when the vehicle is not parked and the brake pedal is engaged beyond the threshold level. The flashing mechanism is automatically reset to a non-operating mode when the brake pedal is disengaged during parked and non-parked conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 3, 2010
    Inventors: John M. Juranovich, Katherine A. Juranovich
  • Patent number: 7755475
    Abstract: A device for controlling the brake lights in a motor vehicle having a brake system, designed to be operated by outside forces, is described. The device includes a control device for actuating the brakes of the vehicle in such a manner that an automatic braking operation can be carried out as a function of the vehicle operating conditions, and at least one brake lamp which can be actuated by the control device or by a separate control unit. The control device or the control unit may be designed in such a manner that during an automatic braking operation, the brake lamp is switched on below a predefined boundary speed, as a function of a braking pressure determined in the activated brake of the vehicle, or as a function of a parameter correlating to the braking pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Thomas Toelge, Alexander Meske
  • Patent number: 7755474
    Abstract: A method and an apparatus are provided for controllably illuminating automotive brake lights. In one embodiment, an automotive brake lighting system comprises a brake light including first and second light sources, a sensor to sense a level of an operating condition associated with at least one of a brake assembly or a brake pedal of a motor vehicle for illuminating the brake light, and a controller configured to monitor information provided by the sensor. The controller, in response to the level of the operating condition, selectively powers the at least one of the first or second light sources of the brake light based at least in part on the monitored information to generate a variable visual indication relating to braking of the motor vehicle from the brake light over a range of at least two different visual indications that indicate a variable braking rate of the motor vehicle over a corresponding range of at least two different braking rates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Inventor: Sanjeev Kumar Singh
  • Patent number: 7744260
    Abstract: A straddle type vehicle includes a movable cover on a rear trunk space and a light assembly having a first light unit extending in a generally horizontal direction and a second light unit extending in a generally vertical direction. The assembly can also include two vertical light units, one positioned on the left side of the movable cover and the other positioned on the right side of the movable cover, and one horizontal light positioned below the movable cover. Connectors and fastening mechanisms can be utilized to connect the light units and movable cover of the assembly. In addition, the first light unit and the second light unit can both be a light-emitting diode (LED) light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Yoshiaki Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 7710254
    Abstract: An integrated progressive brake light system for vehicles in which different sequences of brake lights are illuminated dependent on operator activation input. The brake light system uses a progressive multiple selective illumination in which additional central oriented brake lights are actuated as metered increase of operator input to indicate the relative degree of applied braking force as will be evident to the visual interpretation thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2010
    Inventor: Joel H. Hill, III
  • Publication number: 20100102947
    Abstract: A wireless warning brake light includes a third brake light with a casing installed therein with plural LEDs and a signal receiver for detecting brake signals emitted by an emitter and for activating the LEDs. The rear side of the casing of the third brake light is provided with adhesive material for gluing the third brake light on a safety helmet. A brake light is disposed with plural LEDs and an emitter. The original brake light of a vehicle is replaced with the aforementioned brake light. When the brake light is started, the emitter will be triggered to emit a brake signal that is detected by the receiver of the third brake light, warning vehicles coming from behind. Thus, the safety of motorcyclists or of the drivers of automobiles is ensured.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Publication date: April 29, 2010
    Inventor: JAMES L. CHEN
  • Publication number: 20100090821
    Abstract: A braking display apparatus for a vehicle, the apparatus including at least one sensor means adapted to detect changes in input information, signal generating means to generate a signal based upon changes detected in the input information, and a display means mounted for at least visual display and operable to produce a display upon receipt that a change has occurred in the input information from the signal generating means.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 31, 2007
    Publication date: April 15, 2010
    Inventor: Mark W. Gallon
  • Patent number: 7696865
    Abstract: An electronic message board includes a housing removably affixed to an interior surface of a selected window of a vehicle. Such housing is visible to another driver during driving conditions and includes a back wall with front and rear planar surfaces respectively and a first electrically conductive plate with a planar rear surface directly attached to the front surface of the back wall. The message board further includes a light display removably interfitted within the housing, a light emitting diode array, a transparent faceplate with predetermined indicia formed in a front surface thereof, and a mechanism for selectively actuating the light display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Inventor: Marvin Robinson
  • Patent number: RE41243
    Abstract: A multi-functional side rear view mirror for a vehicle for preventing blind spots for viewers. The multi-functional side rear view mirror includes a housing for mounting to the vehicle, a pair of mirrors disposed in the housing for viewing behind the vehicle, a pair of side marker lights disposed on the housing for continuously illuminating while the external light system of the vehicle is activated for preventing blind spots for the viewers, a turn signal light disposed on the housing for flashing while the turn signal system of the vehicle is activated for preventing blind spots for the viewers, and a brake light disposed on the housing for continuously illuminating while the brake light system of the vehicle is activated for preventing blind spots for the viewers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2002
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2010
    Inventor: John F. Kurth