Portable Patents (Class 340/908)
  • Patent number: 11710401
    Abstract: Synchronized work zone traffic management systems and methods are disclosed herein. An example method includes synchronizing, by a first vehicle, communication with a second vehicle over a wireless link, and displaying alternatingly, by the first vehicle, one of two messages on a first external display according to an alternating schema. A first message indicates to drivers to drive slowly and a second message indicates to the drivers to stop. The first message being displayed on the first external display when the second vehicle is displaying the second message on a second external display. The first vehicle displaying the second message on the first external display when the second vehicle is displaying the first message on the second external display. The alternating displaying of the first and second messages being used to control flow of traffic on a one-way street.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2023
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Oliver Lei, Somak Datta Gupta
  • Patent number: 11676396
    Abstract: An automated valet parking system provides an automated valet parking service in a parking lot. Recognition result information is generated based on a result of recognition by a recognition sensor when a vehicle exists in the parking lot. The automated valet parking system identifies the vehicle position in the parking lot by using an infrastructure sensor installed in the parking lot. The automated valet parking system acquires expected recognition result information expected to be obtained at the vehicle position. Then, the automated valet parking system compares the recognition result information with the expected recognition result information to calculate reliability of the recognition result information based on a difference between them. When the reliability is lower than a threshold, the automated valet parking system transmits notification information for notifying an abnormality of the recognition sensor to a terminal device operated by a user of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2023
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Miyuki Takato
  • Patent number: 11626014
    Abstract: A traffic controlling system is provided that can include a platform, a sensor, and a control unit. The platform can have a top side, a locomotion system, and a receiving area. The locomotion system can be configured to move the platform into a preselected position. The receiving area configured to receive a traffic indicator module. The sensor, which can include a camera, can be configured to generate location data of the platform. The camera can capture or record surrounding data for navigational purposes or for other highway traffic control and monitoring purposes. The control unit can be configured to receive the location data. The control unit can also be configured to determine if the platform is in the preselected position. The control unit can be further configured to execute instructions including the pathway that the platform needs to travel to be positioned in the preselected position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 7, 2021
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2023
    Assignee: PIONEER INDUSTRIAL SYSTEMS, LLC
    Inventor: Todd Hendricks, Jr.
  • Patent number: 11586260
    Abstract: A solar powered cooler for a smart device such as a smartphone or smart tablet is provided, optionally with a device holder and a solar powered charger unit. The cooler may include an upper fan casing, an optional bottom fan casing, smart device holder, and an air passage formed between the upper fan casing and the smart device holder. The heat dissipation structure of the smart device holder for holding a smart device is disposed in the close proximity space of the smart device to provide a good heat dissipation effect by way of active cooling (forced convection) and passive cooling (natural convection) so as to enhance the heat dissipation performance of the smart device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2020
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: Tapicu, Inc.
    Inventor: Reginald L. Walker
  • Patent number: 11532216
    Abstract: The present disclosure concerns a warning device comprising a warning body having a longitudinal axis and comprising a light-emitting assembly; and a collapsible stand configurable in a compacted configuration and in a warning configuration in which the light-emitting assembly is at least partially visible. The collapsible stand comprises a handle sleeve mounted to and slidable along the warning body and legs pivotably mounted to the handle sleeve, the legs being juxtaposed against the warning body when the collapsible stand is in the compacted configuration to cover the warning body and the legs extending outwardly and downwardly when the collapsible stand is in the warning configuration, the collapsible stand being configurable between the compacted configuration and the warning configuration by sliding the handle sleeve along the warning body. The disclosure also concerns a warning assembly comprising such a warning device and a method of emitting a warning light signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 28, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2022
    Assignee: SIGNALISATION D'URGENCE RH INC.
    Inventors: Raymond Houle, Gérald Juneau, David Mitchell
  • Patent number: 11508162
    Abstract: The disclosure provides a method and an apparatus for detecting a mobile traffic light. The method includes: obtaining a set of positive sample images with the mobile traffic light and a set of negative sample images without the mobile traffic light; extracting current training data respectively from the set of positive sample images and the set of negative sample images based on a preset sampling ratio; detecting the mobile traffic light of each image in the current training data with a first preset detection model to determine a detection result of each image; determining current classification loss and detecting frame regression loss based on a difference between the detection result of each image and labeled data; and generating a detection model for detecting the mobile traffic light in case that the current classification loss and the current detecting frame regression loss meet a preset condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2022
    Assignee: BEIJING BAIDU NETCOM SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Huan Qin
  • Patent number: 11466471
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a system to provide a smart city platform for urban areas by utilizing module units that contain multiple types of technology and equipment. A smart city platform is created with a multiplicity of module units installed throughout a cityscape. The module units house various equipment, such as various antennas, cables, brackets and other equipment, to enable smart city connectivity and services and may be additionally fitted with service station units to provide extra capabilities and services to communities.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2021
    Date of Patent: October 11, 2022
    Assignee: Champion Optical Network Engineering, LLC
    Inventors: Timothy G. Yanda, John M. Jutila
  • Patent number: 11158217
    Abstract: A portable, self-illuminating traffic sign having a sign head with two opposite sides. One side indicates a first traffic signal, and the other side indicates a second traffic signal. Light assemblies are attached to each side of the sign head. The light assemblies emit light that may match the predominant color of one of the sides of the sign head. A battery may be disposed in a pole that connects to the sign head. A handlegrip allows for the sign to be held and provides a switch to allow for the lights to be selectively turned on and off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2021
    Inventor: Michael J. Evans
  • Patent number: 11138877
    Abstract: A remote controlled mobile traffic control system which can be used in the place of a human flag person. A mobile platform with an adjustable traffic control indicator thereon is controlled by a remote control. The operator can move the platform and change the indication of the traffic control apparatus from a safe distance. The apparatus permits “flagging” of traffic in a moving traffic control zone arrangement, and operational safety is maximized. A traffic barrier arm is movable between deployed and retracted positions obstructing the path of oncoming traffic, for example by a remote controlled actuator or by remote controlled turning of the platform. A remote alarm unit accompanies to the work crew to alarm them of traffic entering the work zone without authorization or at unsafe speed. The apparatus can travel with a moving or changing work zone, either by human remote control or autonomous “follow me” functionality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 5, 2021
    Inventor: Leo Beaulieu
  • Patent number: 11027723
    Abstract: A method of displaying parking assist information is used in a parking assist apparatus comprising a display and a control device. The control device detects a first parking space that satisfies a predefined parking condition. When information of selecting a second parking space other than the first parking space is input, the control device re-detects a parking space that satisfies the predefined parking condition as the first parking space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 8, 2021
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yasuhisa Hayakawa
  • Patent number: 10818104
    Abstract: A method deploys a remotely-maneuverable rolling platform from a faulty self-driving vehicle (SDV). The method detects a driving problem severity level for the faulty self-driving vehicle (SDV), where the driving problem severity level describes an amount of danger that is posed to other vehicles by the faulty SDV, and assesses environmental conditions at the location of the faulty SDV. The method determines an opportune position for deploying one or more road safety flares by the faulty SDV based on the environmental conditions at the location of the faulty SDV and the driving problem severity level, and then deploys a remotely-maneuverable rolling platform, from the faulty SDV to the opportune position, based on the amount of danger that is posed to the other vehicles by the faulty SDV, where the one or more road safety flares are coupled to the remotely-maneuverable rolling platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 8, 2019
    Date of Patent: October 27, 2020
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Michael S. Gordon, James R. Kozloski, Clifford A. Pickover
  • Patent number: 10657810
    Abstract: A remote controlled mobile traffic control system which can be used in the place of a human flag person. A mobile platform with an adjustable traffic control indicator thereon is controlled by a remote control. The operator can move the platform and change the indication of the traffic control apparatus from a safe distance. The apparatus permits “flagging” of traffic in a moving traffic control zone arrangement, and operational safety is maximized. A traffic barrier arm is movable between deployed and retracted positions obstructing the path of oncoming traffic, for example by a remote controlled actuator or by remote controlled turning of the platform. A remote alarm unit accompanies to the work crew to alarm them of traffic entering the work zone without authorization or at unsafe speed. The apparatus can travel with a moving or changing work zone, either by human remote control or autonomous “follow me” functionality.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2020
    Inventor: Leo Beaulieu
  • Patent number: 10511896
    Abstract: A sensor system is provided. The sensor system includes: a battery that powers the sensor system; a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag that stores a unique identifier of the sensor system; a sensor that provides a sensing data for the sensor system; an internet of things (IoT) transceiver that communicates with an access point in an IoT system; and a processor that receives the sensing data from the sensor and controls an activation of the sensor and a frequency of communication of the IoT transceiver with the access point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 18, 2018
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2019
    Assignee: TIONESTA, LLC
    Inventor: Paul Struhsaker
  • Patent number: 10446029
    Abstract: A method and device of a parking system includes, for example, a computer program configured for operating a parking lot, including the steps of ascertaining a route to a target position in the parking lot for autonomous travel of a vehicle in the parking lot to the target position, and blocking at least one section of the route to other vehicles before the vehicle travels through the section, so that the vehicle is able to drive autonomously through the blocked-off section of the route.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 29, 2015
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2019
    Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbH
    Inventors: Stefan Hoffmann, Rolf Nicodemus, Stefan Nordbruch
  • Patent number: 10385525
    Abstract: A temporary traffic control assembly includes a traffic barrier that is positioned in a construction zone of a roadway. A mount is coupled to the traffic barrier and a motor is coupled to the mount. A pole is slidably positioned on the motor such that the motor selectively rotates the pole. A display is coupled to the pole such that the display is visible to drivers on the roadway. The display displays indicia comprising traffic information for the drivers. The display is suspended over the roadway when the motor rotates the pole into a displaying position. Moreover, the display is swung across the traffic barrier when the motor rotates the pole into a maintenance position. In this way a worker standing behind the traffic barrier can manipulate the pole and the display without being exposed to traffic on the roadway. A remote control is manipulated by a user for remotely controlling operational parameters of the motor and the display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 6, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 20, 2019
    Inventor: Daniel M. Pongracz
  • Patent number: 10332394
    Abstract: Unmanned aerial vehicles and related methods and systems are disclosed. An example unmanned aerial vehicle, comprising: a body and a propulsion source to propel the unmanned aerial vehicle during flight; and a display carried by the unmanned aerial vehicle to display a message to coordinate traffic, the display actuatable between a deployed position to enable the message to be conveyed and a stowed position in which aerodynamics of the unmanned aerial vehicle are enhanced.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2019
    Assignee: INTEL CORPORATION
    Inventors: David Gomez Gutierrez, Leobardo Emmanuel Campos Macias, Jose Ignacio Parra Vilchis, Rafael De La Guardia Gonzalez, Rodrigo Aldana Lopez
  • Patent number: 10178449
    Abstract: A sensor system is provided. The sensor system includes: a battery that powers the sensor system; a radio-frequency identification (RFID) tag that stores a unique identifier of the sensor system; a sensor that provides a sensing data for the sensor system; an internet of things (IoT) transceiver that communicates with an access point in an IoT system; and a processor that receives the sensing data from the sensor and controls an activation of the sensor and a frequency of communication of the IoT transceiver with the access point.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Assignee: TIONESTA, LLC
    Inventor: Paul Struhsaker
  • Patent number: 10109189
    Abstract: In one aspect, traffic signaling apparatus are described herein. In some embodiments, a traffic signaling apparatus described herein comprises a first traffic light structure and a second traffic light structure. The second traffic light structure is operable to display a plurality of traffic signals, such as a red traffic signal and a green traffic signal. Further, the second traffic light structure is attached to a horizontal or substantially horizontal cable or to a horizontal or substantially horizontal mast arm. Moreover, the first traffic light structure is attached to the second traffic light structure or to the mast arm by a pole. Additionally, in some cases, the first traffic light structure is disposed at least three feet above the second traffic light structure. The first traffic light structure can also be substantially horizontally aligned with the second traffic light structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2018
    Assignee: UNITED SAFETY TOWERS, LLC
    Inventor: Milton Clifford Beckham
  • Patent number: 10043385
    Abstract: A traffic control device (TCD) is described for managing control of multiple right of way passages at a traffic intersection. The TCD includes a mobile wireless interface for communicating with an in-vehicle mobile wireless device (IV-MWD) to receive a commuter profile (CP) containing a subscribed switch time interval (SSTI). The TCD determines a set of passage priority values for respective ones of a set of controlled right of way passages. The TCD selects, based upon the set of passage priority values, a highest priority one of the set of controlled right of way passages as a next controlled right of way passage granted passage. The TCD resets a timer duration value associated with a next controlled right of way passage period, executes a right of way passage switch. Thereafter, the TCD maintains a current switch status of the traffic control device for a period corresponding to the timer duration value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: United States Cellular Corporation
    Inventors: Sebastian Thalanany, Narothum Saxena, Michael S. Irizarry
  • Patent number: 10045418
    Abstract: Systems and methods for a high output, high color quality light are disclosed. In some embodiments, such a light may include a light fixture including one or more LEDs configured to output a cumulative light output; wherein the cumulative light output comprises an intensity of greater than or equal to 10,000 lumens; and wherein the cumulative light output comprises a CRI of at least 90.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2017
    Date of Patent: August 7, 2018
    Assignee: Cree, Inc.
    Inventors: Brian Kinnune, David Goelz, James Lay, Don Miletich, Alan Ruud, Kurt Wilcox, Yuequan Hu, Liqin Ni, Nicholas William Medendorp, Jr., Boris Karpichev
  • Patent number: 9886854
    Abstract: A flashing beacon may include a signal unit, a control unit associated with the signal unit, a solar panel or collector, and an activation device that may all be mounted or otherwise positioned on a post of a roadway sign. Light units associated with the signal unit may be programmed to flash on and off in a unique wig-wag pattern. Further, a light bar may also be used with the beacon to generate an intense flash of light soon after activation of the beacon as an additional means of grabbing the attention of the operator of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2018
    Assignee: R.D. Jones, Stop Experts, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard D. Jones
  • Patent number: 9685082
    Abstract: In one aspect, traffic signaling apparatus are described herein. In some embodiments, a traffic signaling apparatus described herein comprises a first traffic light structure and a second traffic light structure. The second traffic light structure is operable to display a plurality of traffic signals, such as a red traffic signal and a green traffic signal. Further, the second traffic light structure is attached to a horizontal or substantially horizontal cable or to a horizontal or substantially horizontal mast arm. Moreover, the first traffic light structure is attached to the second traffic light structure or to the mast arm by a pole. Additionally, in some cases, the first traffic light structure is disposed at least three feet above the second traffic light structure. The first traffic light structure can also be substantially vertically aligned with the second traffic light structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2017
    Assignee: UNITED SAFETY TOWERS, LLC
    Inventor: Milton Clifford Beckham
  • Patent number: 9524641
    Abstract: Systems and methods for monitoring operating parameters of traffic lamps. A traffic lamp includes one or more memory modules and a controller. The controller receives data pertaining to one or more operating parameters of the traffic lamp and logs the one or more operating parameters to the one or more memory modules using the received data. The controller may log the one or more operating parameters to the one or more memory modules upon detection of a fault in the one or more operating parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2016
    Assignee: GE LIGHTING SOLUTIONS, LLC
    Inventors: Truong-Khoa Nguyen, Benoit Essiambre, Christian Poirier, Morné Neser
  • Patent number: 9342982
    Abstract: Embodiments relate to traffic control resource planning. An aspect includes receiving information about available routes in a transportation network and receiving an estimate of a traffic demand in the transportation network. Traffic control planning is performed and it may include: simulating a traffic flow based on the available routes and the traffic demand; applying a model that varies traffic control agent (TCA) placement and traffic signal settings in the transportation network to minimize a cost associated with the traffic flow, the cost including a TCA deployment cost and a traffic delay cost; and outputting a traffic control plan based on the applying, the traffic control plan including a TCA placement and traffic signal setting plan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2016
    Assignee: INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINES CORPORATION
    Inventors: Arun Hampapur, Qing He, Xuan Liu, Songhua Xing
  • Patent number: 9305472
    Abstract: A traffic control paddle includes a frame with a handle and a head having two sides. The head has a perimeter, a face inset within the perimeter, a surface on the face carrying literal indicia, and an upstanding lip extending around the perimeter and projecting above the face by a first distance. Two spaced-apart light-emitting diodes in the face are seated in annular projections, each of which projects above the face by a second distance. The handle carries batteries and a switch to provide power to the light-emitting diodes. The light-emitting diodes are spaced above and below the literal indicia on the face and are programmed to blink.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Inventor: Brian K. Pitts
  • Patent number: 9273855
    Abstract: The present invention provides an illumination device comprising an elongated support element (10) with an illumination source (20) integrated therein. Preferably the elongated element is collapsible, telescopic or resiliently flexible. It may comprise a plurality of sections (11, 12) which are adapted to reciprocate between a retracted configuration and an extended configuration. The device is particularly suitable for temporary or collapsible structures such as tents, umbrellas, awnings, shades or the like.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Assignee: Doble Telescopic Lighting Pty Ltd.
    Inventor: Simon Doble
  • Patent number: 9273435
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a vehicle barrier system and method of use. The vehicle barrier system includes a control system adapted to pivot a gate arm between a horizontal position and a vertical position to control the flow of vehicle or pedestrian traffic in control access areas such as parking lots, or parking garages. The gate arm includes inset channels that are disposed along the longitudinal axis of the gate arm and configured to each remove ably receive an array of light emitting diodes to increase visibility and alert drivers or pedestrians to the presence of a gate arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2015
    Date of Patent: March 1, 2016
    Assignee: GateArm Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Russel Lumsden, Jaikeeshan Sirju, Bryce Charles Fortney
  • Patent number: 9193482
    Abstract: A boundary/edge recognition system for on ground vehicular traffic, especially airport runways and taxiways that uses multiple markers, each marker including an elongated tube with a light source in or near the tube for illuminating one or more slits or a plurality of apertures in the tube. Preferred embodiments include spring mounts and/or means for indicating misalignment. Additional options include a defroster/heater and/or bird roost prevention means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2015
    Inventor: Scott P. Stauffer
  • Patent number: 9146560
    Abstract: A robot navigation system includes a robot, a navigation beacon, and a cover structure. The robot includes a chassis, an omni-directional receiver, and at least one directional receiver. The navigation beacon includes an omni-directional infrared emitter and at least one directional infrared emitter. The cover structure is configured to block infrared transmissions between the at least one directional infrared emitter and the directional receiver while simultaneously permitting transmissions between the omni-directional infrared emitter and the omni-directional receiver. The cover structure may be made of a black silicone material.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 29, 2015
    Assignee: iRobot Corporation
    Inventors: Scott Thomas Burnett, Jared Randall Maroon
  • Patent number: 9142126
    Abstract: An emergency traffic system is provided. The emergency traffic system may include a power source, a battery, an emergency traffic light, a light sensor, a mounting assemblage, a computer and an existing traffic light system. The emergency traffic system may be mounted on a traffic light system, whereby the light sensor may be secured to at least one traffic light thereof. The computer may receive electrical signals from the light sensor so as to learn and record the history of the traffic light patterns of the traffic light system. In the next step, the computer compares the instant traffic light pattern to the history of traffic light patterns during the operation of the traffic light system being monitored. If the instant traffic light pattern is not found in the history, then the computer transmits the on signal to the emergency traffic light. If the instant traffic pattern is found in the history then the computer continues to monitor the step comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2015
    Inventor: Michael Scoda
  • Patent number: 9127420
    Abstract: An intelligent construction cone includes a light pervious body rotatable relative to a body. A rotating device is mounted to the light pervious body and driven by a driving device to rotate the light pervious body. A distance detector sends a distance signal to a controller coupled to the driving device. The distance detector is jointly rotatable with the light pervious body to eliminate detection dead angle. A warning device is coupled to the controller and generates a warning message responsive to the distance signal. A lighting device is coupled to the controller and provides illumination. A light sensor and a humidity sensor are coupled to the controller and detect environmental brightness and environmental humidity, respectively. The warning message and intensity of the illumination are adjusted according to a distance between an object and the distance detector, the environmental brightness, and the environmental humidity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 8, 2015
    Assignee: National Pingtung University of Science and Technology
    Inventor: Chien-Ho Ko
  • Patent number: 9090202
    Abstract: A combination scene lighting and traffic control system includes a scene illumination apparatus for illuminating an emergency scene, and a detachable adapter for converting the illumination apparatus into a traffic light. The scene illumination apparatus includes at least two separately actuatable lighting elements within a tripod-mounted housing. A control device allows simultaneous actuation of both lighting elements when maximum illumination is desired or actuation of a single element if less illumination is desired. The adapter holds two different colored filters, each of which overlies a different one of the lighting elements when the adapter is secured to the illumination apparatus, so that one colored light will be visible to approaching motorists when a first of the lighting elements is actuated and a different colored light will be visible when a second of the lighting elements is actuated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 28, 2015
    Inventors: John E. McLoughlin, Neocles G. Athanasiades, Kiam Meng Toh
  • Patent number: 9082304
    Abstract: Systems and methods disclose an enhanced barrel mounted traffic message board system for displaying information to traffic. A traffic message board is adjustably coupled to a pole and configured to display the traffic information to the traffic. A battery provides power to the traffic message board and a solar panel provides power to the battery. A traffic barrel is positioned around the pole and over a base plate that supports the pole. An internal structure positioned within the barrel couples with the base plate to provide support to the pole.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 14, 2015
    Inventor: Llewellyn Richard Benn
  • Patent number: 8994559
    Abstract: A pylon is provided for providing visual signals to race participants. The pylon includes a base. A shell is carried on the base. The shell is formed having an outer wall surrounding an internal chamber. The internal chamber includes a wedge-shaped portion which carries a wedge-shaped luminaire. An upwardly-extending tube is carried by the base. The tube is nested within the internal chamber and carries the shell. A power source is provided which provides electricity to the luminaire. A wireless transmitter is provided which is used by a user to turn the luminaire on and off, which luminaire provides visual signals to the race participants.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Inventor: Michael A LaRocco
  • Publication number: 20150054660
    Abstract: Included is a lightweight portable sign which can be used in one aspect to protect stalled or broken down vehicles with passengers still on board, to prevent oncoming vehicles or traffic from colliding with the stalled vehicles. An infinite number of messages may be displayed by input to the display through the use of a keyboard, smart phone application, auditory input or a pre-set selection of messaged chosen by the user. The sign is computerized with onboard memory, processor and optionally, has sound and audio capabilities. An emergency communications system and method are also included. The method include providing software applications communications components of the sign of the invention which then transmits a signal to a communications center, which then can direct the communication to a hospital, police or roadside assistance entity.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Publication date: February 26, 2015
    Inventor: Michael J. Simmons
  • Patent number: 8957789
    Abstract: A vehicle support information system mounted in a vehicle, the vehicle support system including: a man-detecting unit; a vehicle-position detecting unit; a communication unit; a man-position/waiting-score calculating unit; a stopping-vehicle determining unit determining whether or not the vehicle should be stopped, based on a man position and a waiting score of an at least one potential-crossing-man; a travelling controller for stopping the vehicle when the stopping-vehicle determining unit determines that the vehicle should be stopped; and a man-crossing-signal display unit displaying information to inform the at least one potential-crossing-man whether or not the at least one potential-crossing-man can safely cross the road, based on an instruction of the stopping-vehicle determining unit, wherein the man-position/waiting-score calculating unit outputs the man-position/waiting-score to the communication unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshitaka Hara, Takuya Naka, Saku Egawa, Masashi Koga
  • Patent number: 8933817
    Abstract: A removable vehicle directional light unit for use on a police or emergency vehicle which will be highly visible from a long distance for directing traffic to one or more specified lanes to reduce congestion and avoid accidents, particularly accidents involving police and emergency vehicles parked in the vicinity. The device is removably installed onto the rear window, mounted on the rear deck, or mounted on the trunk or top of the vehicle when in use and has a plurality of highly visible flashing lights configured in the shape of an arrow pointing in the direction leading away from a traffic blockage. The vehicle directional light unit includes a control box with a selector switch and flasher units to cause light groupings to flash in a selected pattern indicating the intended lane or lanes which approaching traffic should use.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2015
    Inventor: Bobby Caudill
  • Patent number: 8917187
    Abstract: The invention disclosed herein is a securely attached portable, wearable device to enhance safety, visibility and communication capability of safety personnel when such personal leave their vehicles. The device provided is configured to be securely attached to the wearer, and is capable of emitting variable visual and audio signals actuated by a control panel component which is designed so that the user can activate various options of visual and audio signals while in flight. The device may further include GPS capability for tracking, activation and deactivation functions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2014
    Assignee: 425, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin D. Matte
  • Patent number: 8907790
    Abstract: A fingerprint analysis system is presented including a chemical analysis module configured to perform chemical analysis of received fingerprints to create a chemical profile and provide at least one response and a comparison module configured to compare the chemical profile and/or the at least one response. The chemical analysis involves at least identification of a select number of molecules and/or organic compounds for deriving distinguishing characteristics from the received fingerprints. The fingerprint analysis system may be in operative communication with at least one electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 9, 2014
    Inventor: Theodosios Kountotsis
  • Patent number: 8872656
    Abstract: An electronic device is presented including a fingerprint collecting module for collecting fingerprint information and a chemical analysis module for performing a chemical analysis of the fingerprint information to create a chemical profile for identifying at least a select number of molecules and/or organic compounds for deriving distinguishing characteristics from the fingerprint information. The electronic device may also include an evaluating module for evaluating the distinguishing characteristics of the fingerprint information to provide at least one response formulated from the distinguishing characteristics derived from the select number of molecules and/or organic compounds.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventor: Theodosios Kountotsis
  • Patent number: 8872657
    Abstract: A system for sharing recommended information is presented including a plurality of electronic devices, each having a fingerprint collecting module for collecting fingerprint information and a chemical analysis module for performing a chemical analysis of the fingerprint information to create a chemical profile for identifying at least a select number of molecules and/or organic compounds for deriving distinguishing characteristics from the fingerprint information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2014
    Inventor: Theodosios Kountotsis
  • Patent number: 8845125
    Abstract: The present invention is directed to a vehicle barrier system and method of use. The vehicle barrier system includes a control system adapted to pivot a gate arm between a horizontal position and a vertical position to control the flow of vehicle or pedestrian traffic in control access areas such as parking lots, or parking garages. The gate arm includes inset channels that are disposed along the longitudinal axis of the gate arm and configured to each removeably receive an array of light emitting diodes to increase visibility and alert drivers or pedestrians to the presence of a gate arm.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2014
    Assignee: GateArm Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Russel Lumsden, Jaikeeshan Sirju, Bryce Charles Fortney
  • Patent number: 8823549
    Abstract: A motion detecting traffic cone assembly includes a cone that may be positioned on a support surface such that the cone is visible to an observer. A processor is coupled to the cone. A motion detector is coupled to the cone so the motion detector may detect the observer. The motion detector is operationally coupled to the processor so the motion detector may selectivel actuate the processor. A light emitter is coupled to the cone. The light emitter is operationally coupled to the processor so the processor may selectively actuate the light emitter. An alarm is coupled to the cone. The alarm is operationally coupled to the processor so the processor may selectively actuate the alarm. A speaker is coupled to the cone. The speaker is operationally coupled to the alarm so the alarm may selectively actuate the speaker. A control panel is coupled to the cone. The control panel is operationally coupled to the processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Inventor: Darryl A. Moone
  • Patent number: 8825358
    Abstract: The present description refers in particular to a computer-implemented method, a computer program product and a device for ensuring the privacy of a user and the utility of data communicated by a device, such as a vehicle telematics device, to a server, the method comprising: moving the device during a time period; receiving data at the device during the time period; processing, by the device, the received data; summarizing, by the device, the processed data in a matrix, wherein the rows and columns of the matrix define circumstances of movement of the device, wherein the matrix includes a plurality matrix-entries, and wherein each matrix-entry includes a distance covered by the device during the time period under a pair of said predefined circumstances of movement; and transmitting the summarized data from the device to the server.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Accenture Global Services Limited
    Inventors: Jörg Schäfer, David Toma
  • Patent number: 8803704
    Abstract: A system and method for setting operating parameters of traffic lamps. A traffic lamp including a memory operates according to one or more operating parameters on the memory. A loading device external to the traffic lamp transfers one or more operating parameters to the traffic lamp, where the traffic lamp sets the operating parameters to the transferred operating parameters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: GE Lighting Solutions, LLC
    Inventors: Truong-Khoa Nguyen, Benoit Essiambre, Christian Poirier
  • Patent number: 8805605
    Abstract: A system is provided that includes a control unit configured to be disposed on-board at least one of a first vehicle or a second vehicle. The control unit also is configured to receive an updated time of an event involving the first vehicle and the second vehicle traveling in a transportation network. The control unit also is configured to change a speed of said at least one of the first vehicle or the second vehicle in response to the updated time to arrive at the event. A method is provided that includes, at one of a first vehicle or a second vehicle, receiving an updated time of an event involving the first vehicle and the second vehicle in a transportation network. The method also includes changing a speed of said one of the first vehicle or the second vehicle in response to the updated tune to arrive at the event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 12, 2014
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Jared Cooper, Mitchell Scott Wills, Kevin Campbell, John McElroy, Jian Li, Bruce Hancock, Sherri Boyd, Mason Samuels, Paul Denton, David Eldredge, Scott Dulmage
  • Patent number: 8779935
    Abstract: A movement warning system for notifying a proximal entity of the approach of a vehicle comprising a sensor system, a controlling mobile device, and a signal generator system. The sensor system generates motion data indicative of movement of the vehicle. The controlling mobile device generates at least one warning signal based on the motion data. The signal generator system generates at least one warning based on the to at least one warning signal. The signal generator generates the warning such that the proximal entity perceives the warning.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2014
    Inventor: Vladimir Savchenko
  • Patent number: 8773284
    Abstract: A stepped intensity electric road flare having a housing supporting a circuit. The circuit comprises an led light source, a power controller and a power supply. The power controller energizes the led light source with the power supply such that the led light source emits a varying light having at least one perceived fixed intensity within a range of emitted intensities. The road flare of the present invention provides a perceived steady light having a perceived fixed intensity during a portion or time zone of its waveform thereby communicating its exact location. In addition because its intensity changes during other portions or time zones of its waveform it also demands attention. The present invention is therefore an attention getting safety device communicating its exact location. The present invention both alerts drivers to a hazard and guides them past the hazard. In addition the emitted light of the present invention is of a reddish color and concentrated by an optic into a powerful light beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 8, 2014
    Inventor: Kevin McDermott
  • Patent number: 8749401
    Abstract: A vehicle support system for supporting a man in safely crossing a road without crosswalks installed is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Hitcha, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshitaka Hara, Takuya Naka, Saku Egawa, Masashi Koga
  • Patent number: 8742917
    Abstract: A warning triangle has a simplified structure and is operable in accordance with the requirement of energy saving and manufactured at lower cost. The warning triangle structure includes a first board body, a second board body and a third board body, which are assembled with each other. Each of the board bodies has a first face and a second face, which together define an internal cavity. At least one light source and a light guide strip for guiding light are disposed in the cavity. The second and third board bodies are pivotally connected with movable stands for supporting the warning triangle in use. The second and third board bodies can be selectively collapsed onto the first and second faces of the first board body to minimize the volume of the warning triangle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Inventor: Chang-Hsien Ho