Indication Of Time Remaining Before Change Of Phase Patents (Class 340/929)
  • Patent number: 11783704
    Abstract: A configuration is provided so that information of detection of vehicles, pedestrians, etc. provided from a roadside device can be used by an automobile that cannot communicate with the roadside device. A warning device is configured to output a warning for an automobile traveling in a predetermined lane at an intersection where a roadside device is installed, the roadside device being configured to transmit information of detection of vehicles, pedestrians, etc., the warning device including a receiving unit configured to receive information of detection of vehicles, pedestrians, etc. transmitted from the roadside device and signal information of a signal lamp for the predetermined lane, and a warning unit configured to output a warning based on the information of detection of vehicles, pedestrians, etc. and the signal information received by the receiving unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2023
    Assignee: Koito Electric Industries, Ltd.
    Inventor: Toshiki Sudo
  • Patent number: 11776393
    Abstract: A method at a computing device in an intelligent transportation system for reconfiguring a road segment, the method including receiving a request from a second computing device associated with a vehicle to change a configuration for the road segment; determining a road segment configuration; and reconfiguring the road segment based on the determined road segment configuration.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 21, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 3, 2023
    Assignee: BlackBerry Limited
    Inventors: James Randolph Winter Lepp, Stephen McCann, Jeffrey Scott Dever
  • Patent number: 11749104
    Abstract: According to various embodiments of the present invention, an electronic device comprises: a communication circuit, a display, a processor operatively connected to the communication circuit and the display, and a memory operatively connected to the processor, wherein the memory, when executed, stores instructions for causing the processor to: receive a message for signal information related to walking from an external electronic device through the communication circuit; display, on the display, a first user interface for the received signal information related to walking; receive a message about signal information related to walking that has been changed according to a designated condition from the external electronic device through the communication circuit while displaying the first user interface; and displaying, on the display, a second user interface for the changed signal information related to walking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2019
    Date of Patent: September 5, 2023
    Assignee: SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Areum Choi, Inyoung Choi, Seungcheol Lee, Jehyun Lee, Kiho Cho, Hyoungtak Cho, Jongsung Joo
  • Patent number: 11335099
    Abstract: A proceedable direction detection apparatus includes a processor. The processor inputs an image acquired from an image capturing unit mounted on a vehicle into a classifier that is pre-trained to output a proceedable certainty degree indicating a proceedable probability of each relative bearing with respect to a predetermined direction relative to a vehicle based on a display status of a traffic signal in the image. The processor calculates, using the classifier, the proceedable certainty degree of each relative bearing based on the display status of the traffic signal in the image. The processor determines the direction in which the vehicle can proceed based on a proceedable certainty degree of each relative bearing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2019
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2022
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kota Hirano, Daisuke Hashimoto, Satoshi Takeyasu
  • Patent number: 11200801
    Abstract: Methods and systems for providing advance warning of a change in status of a traffic light to drivers approaching an intersection. The systems and methods include secondary lights positioned in advance of a traffic light at an intersection so that they are visible to oncoming traffic; and using a controller to control the plurality of secondary lights to start flashing before the traffic light changes from green to yellow. Once activated, the lights flash in the direction of oncoming traffic to warn drivers approaching the intersection that a stop may be required and that caution should be exercised.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 11, 2020
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2021
    Inventor: Russell Wilkin
  • Patent number: 11151871
    Abstract: An autonomous driving vehicle information presentation apparatus includes: a traffic signal information obtaining unit that obtains traffic signal information on a traffic light at an intersection ahead of a host vehicle in a direction of advance; a check-recognition unit that recognizes change timing of a traffic signal of the traffic light based on the traffic signal information on the traffic light; and an information presentation unit that presents traffic signal information including an instruction to stop, a warning for advance, or a permission to advance expressed by the traffic signal of the traffic light, with a rear display unit provided at a position at which the rear display unit is visible to an occupant in a trailing vehicle. The information presentation unit presents the traffic signal information further containing the change timing of the traffic signal of the traffic light recognized by the check-recognition unit, with the rear display unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2020
    Date of Patent: October 19, 2021
    Assignee: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Yoshitaka Mimura, Takashi Oshima, Yuji Tsuchiya, Yuki Kizumi
  • Patent number: 11069230
    Abstract: An in-vehicle device and a method for providing traffic light information by the in-vehicle device are provided. The in-vehicle includes a camera that photographs a front side of a vehicle and a processor that detects traffic light information by recognizing a traffic light in an image captured by the camera. The detected traffic light information is stored cumulatively and the controller provides traffic light prediction information for the traffic light, based on the accumulated traffic light information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 15, 2020
    Date of Patent: July 20, 2021
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, Kia Motors Corporation
    Inventor: Ik Soon Lim
  • Patent number: 10902721
    Abstract: Disclosed is a road projecting method and system for a traffic light. A passable region and an impassable region are determined according to a current state and a time period of the traffic light and a preset travelling speed of a vehicle; on a map, the passable region is displayed in a first manner, and the impassable region is displayed in a second manner; and the first manner is different from the second manner. The road projecting method and system for a traffic light provided by the present invention divides the road on which the vehicle is running into the passable region and the impassable region on the map, and the passable region and the impassable region are displayed in different manners, thereby avoiding congestion caused by stop of a large number of vehicles close to the intersection and improving the traffic efficiency.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2021
    Assignee: IE-Cheng Technology (TIANJIN) Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Xiangying Li, Xuelian Jiao
  • Patent number: 10347124
    Abstract: A traffic light enhancement device for a traffic light comprises a light bulb having a color which is present in the traffic light for installation at the traffic light to replace an existing lightbulb of corresponding color in the traffic light. A processor is provided and associated with the lightbulb for measuring the duration for which the color is illuminated in the normal operation of the traffic light. A lightbulb display is provided in the light bulb for displaying the color based on processor measurements in changing configurations according to remaining duration for which the color is illuminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2019
    Inventor: Meir Grossberg
  • Patent number: 10186149
    Abstract: A driving assistance device includes a controller configured to perform presentation of driving assistance information regarding a signalized intersection to a driver of a vehicle by causing a display unit to display an assistance image. The controller is configured to, when a road distance up to a signalized intersection where the driver of the vehicle is scheduled to enter is less than a threshold distance, prohibit the presentation of the driving assistance information to the driver, the presentation being performed by displaying the assistance image including an image indicating information regarding a predicted light color of a traffic signal installed at the corresponding signalized intersection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2017
    Date of Patent: January 22, 2019
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Yohei Fujii
  • Patent number: 9013325
    Abstract: A roadside equipment (RSE) system that can be used for controlling traffic signals and other equipment and corresponding method. A method includes maintaining a traffic signal in a GREEN phase in a first direction, including displaying a GREEN indicator in the first direction. The method includes detecting an event indicating that the phase of the traffic signal in the first direction should be changed and changing the phase of the traffic signal to a pre-YELLOW phase in response to the detected event, including continuing to display the GREEN indicator in the first direction. The method includes wirelessly transmitting a message indicating the pre-YELLOW phase and a phase time, the phase time indicating a next change of phase of the traffic signal, and changing the phase of the traffic signal to a YELLOW phase when the phase time has been reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: David Dodd Miller, Mark Allen Clark
  • Patent number: 8981964
    Abstract: In this driving supporting device, the light color change cycle of a prediction object traffic signal is acquired on the basis of the light color change cycle of a prediction basis traffic signal installed before the prediction object traffic signal, and the light color state of the prediction object traffic signal when the vehicle arrives at the prediction object traffic signal is predicted on the basis of the light color state of the prediction basis traffic signal and the light color change cycle of the prediction object traffic signal. Thus, since the light color change cycle of the prediction object traffic signal is acquired on the basis of the light color change cycle of the prediction basis traffic signal, it becomes possible to predict a light color state even in the case of a traffic signal which cannot transmit information indicating its light color change cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Takeshi Matsumura
  • Patent number: 8972076
    Abstract: A driving assistance apparatus that assists driving of a vehicle, includes: a vehicle speed sensor; a communication unit that obtains traffic light information relating to a change in a display condition of a traffic light disposed in an advancement direction of the vehicle; a position calculation unit that calculates relative position information between the vehicle and a traffic light location where the traffic light is disposed; and a passage assistance control unit. The passage assistance control unit detects an operating condition of the vehicle at an intersection location before the traffic light, calculates a corrected vehicle speed on the basis of the operating condition and a current vehicle speed, and determines whether or not the vehicle is permitted to pass through the traffic light location on the basis of the corrected vehicle speed, the relative position information between the vehicle and the traffic light location, and the traffic light information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 3, 2015
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Yuki Ogawa
  • Patent number: 8928468
    Abstract: In a method for line-of-sight-independent data transmission in a car-to-car or a car-to-infrastructure communication system, electromagnetic radiation having encoded data is transmitted from a transmitter located in a first vehicle or in a traffic infrastructure object, and a reflector system is provided for at least partially reflecting the transmitted electromagnetic radiation, wherein the reflector system is arranged so that the transmitted electromagnetic radiation arrives at a receiver located in a second vehicle or in the traffic infrastructure object. The reflected electromagnetic radiation having the encoded data can then be received by the receiver even when line-of-sight communication between the vehicles is impossible.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Audi AG
    Inventor: Christoph Ullrich
  • Patent number: 8892342
    Abstract: A driving support apparatus which performs driving support regarding a traffic signal includes: a communication device which acquires time-series traffic signal information regarding the lighting state of the traffic signal; a time calculating unit which calculates the time remaining until the lighting state changes on the basis of the traffic signal information; and an output device which notifies a driver of lighting time information regarding the time remaining. When the time remaining is equal to or smaller than a threshold value, the output device does not perform notification of the lighting time information so that it can be difficult for the driver to predict the timing at which a red lighting state of the traffic signal will change. Accordingly, it becomes possible to suppress unsafe action by the driver based on the traffic signal information notification received.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 18, 2014
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yuki Yamada, Hiroshi Onuma
  • Publication number: 20140225752
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a predictive intersection traffic light that indicates when a green light changes to other light, and can stop a driver from accelerating and tailgating when entering the intersection. The predictive traffic light of two or more colors, which controls a green light and indicates a remaining operation time of the green light, includes a traffic light main body displaying a red light that is a stop signal, a yellow light that is a preparatory intermediate signal, a turn signal light, and a green light that is a proceed light. Here, the green light of the main body comprises Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) arranged in a plurality of circular rows at the outer side of the green light and an indicating plate that is surrounded by the arranged LEDs and indicates only the number for countdown time until the green light turns off such that a driver knows the remaining operation time of the green light that is a proceed signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 14, 2012
    Publication date: August 14, 2014
    Inventor: Eui Ho Lee
  • Patent number: 8717195
    Abstract: A traffic signal control method comprises confirming the shortest green light interval; confirming the conflict area of the different traffic flow and the key conflict point position according to the engineering design for road canalization; confirming the longest clear distance si(m) of the traffic tail unit of green light i and the shortest entry distance sj(m) of the traffic head unit of green light j in conflict with green light i; calculating the longest clear time Max{ti} of the traffic tail unit of green light i and the shortest entry time Min{tj} of the traffic head unit of green light j; calculating the shortest green light interval Iij=A+Max{ti}?Min{tj}; confirming the control scheme for the crossing according to the shortest green light interval and sending the control instruction to the traffic signal display device for displaying in real time according to the control scheme. A traffic signal control system and special equipment are also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 2011
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: HWYL-HUBBL Tech. Development Co, Ltd. In Beijing
    Inventors: Qian Wang, Dahai Wang, Nan Ye
  • Patent number: 8599005
    Abstract: A method for making it possible to set the link between all the types of vehicles and roads with the rolling limits on the roadway is described. This setting can be established from the existing road data bases and from the characteristics of the known vehicles. This method is capable of determining the vehicle rolling limits. A device which can be fitted on any vehicle and capable of implementing the method according to the invention is also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: NODBOX
    Inventors: Thierry Fargas, Dominique Clarac
  • Patent number: 8581746
    Abstract: A drive assist device and method capable of preventing the confusion of a driver at a traffic signal with an arrow lamp are provided. An ECU has a section for determining whether or not it is possible to pass a signal, which determines whether or not a vehicle can pass a signal, and a signal waiting time notification control section, which determines a signal waiting time of the vehicle and displays it on a display unit when the section for determining whether or not it is possible to pass a signal determines that the vehicle cannot pass a signal. The section for determining whether or not it is possible to pass a signal determines not only a lighting time of only a red signal but also a lighting time of a red signal and an arrow lamp and a lighting time of a yellow signal subsequent thereto are determined as a no-pass time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Yuki Yamada
  • Publication number: 20130166109
    Abstract: A notification system determines a correspondence between a vehicle and an upcoming traffic signal, and predicts a likely remaining duration of the traffic signal in a particular state, such as “red light”, when the vehicle is at the signal's location. The notification is displayed on a user device in the vehicle, or is used to control the vehicle directly, for instance to turn off the vehicle's engine if the light is to remain red for a duration exceeding a threshold. Prediction of the vehicle's arrival is also used to set the state of the traffic signal to “vehicle waiting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 25, 2013
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Applicant: ON TIME SYSTEMS. INC.
    Inventor: On Time Systems. Inc.
  • Patent number: 8471728
    Abstract: A traffic management system and method are provided that determine and present a target speed for a vehicle to travel from a first position to a second position when a signaling device at the second position is in a desired phase. The target average speed can be presented via a variety of output devices, such as a display and/or speaker. The output device could, for example, be stationary, at a fixed distance from the signaling device, such as a roadside display. The output device could be a mobile device, carried in a vehicle or by a user, e.g., a cell phone, GPS navigation system, or personal digital assistant. The system can include a signal timing processor that determines a target average speed of travel between the first and second positions, which can be based on, or calculated from, timing information of the signals and a distance between the two positions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Flaherty
  • Publication number: 20130127640
    Abstract: A drive assist device and method capable of preventing the confusion of a driver at a traffic signal with an arrow lamp are provided. An ECU has a section for determining whether or not it is possible to pass a signal, which determines whether or not a vehicle can pass a signal, and a signal waiting time notification control section, which determines a signal waiting time of the vehicle and displays it on a display unit when the section for determining whether or not it is possible to pass a signal determines that the vehicle cannot pass a signal. The section for determining whether or not it is possible to pass a signal determines not only a lighting time of only a red signal but also a lighting time of a red signal and an arrow lamp and a lighting time of a yellow signal subsequent thereto are determined as a no-pass time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 17, 2012
    Publication date: May 23, 2013
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
  • Patent number: 8441374
    Abstract: A traveling support device includes: a road-vehicle communication portion that receives first current-signal information relating to a signal displayed by a traffic signal at a first clock time, from a road side transmitter installed on a road; an inter-vehicle communication portion that receives second current-signal information relating to a signal displayed by the traffic signal at a second clock time, from another vehicle that receives the second current-signal information from the road side transmitter; and a signal cycle estimating portion that estimates signal cycle information relating to transition of the signal on the traffic signal on the basis of the first current-signal information received by the road-vehicle communication portion and the second current-signal information received by the inter-vehicle communication portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2013
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Akihisa Yokoyama, Takeshi Matsumura, Mitsuhisa Shida
  • Patent number: 8405523
    Abstract: A drive assist device and method capable of preventing the confusion of a driver at a traffic signal with an arrow lamp are provided. An ECU has a section for determining whether or not it is possible to pass a signal, which determines whether or not a vehicle can pass a signal, and a signal waiting time notification control section, which determines a signal waiting time of the vehicle and displays it on a display unit when the section for determining whether or not it is possible to pass a signal determines that the vehicle cannot pass a signal. The section for determining whether or not it is possible to pass a signal determines not only a lighting time of only a red signal but also a lighting time of a red signal and an arrow lamp and a lighting time of a yellow signal subsequent thereto are determined as a no-pass time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Yuki Yamada
  • Patent number: 8395530
    Abstract: A traffic control system for converting an intersection into a roundabout during periods of heavy traffic includes a mechanism for monitoring traffic flow through the intersection and about the roundabout. The system also includes a concave opening in and around the intersection and a concrete disc disposed in the cavity, a hydraulic lift is constructed and arranged to elevate the concrete disc above the level of the road and lights provided to alert motor vehicles to enter a roundabout defined by the elevated disc. The system also includes traffic lights for alerting a motor vehicle operator to drive onto the disc or around the disc to use the intersection and/or roundabout.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventor: Khaled Jafar Al-Hasan
  • Publication number: 20130022245
    Abstract: A digital electronic display connected to a traffic signal and a method of controlling the digital electronic display are provided. The digital electronic display includes a communication unit configured to receive content including content segments and metadata, a display screen, and a processor. The processor is configured to monitor the traffic signal to determine when, and the duration during which, a red light and a green light of the traffic signal is illuminated, present a content segment on the display screen corresponding to the red light based on the metadata and substantially for the entire duration when the red light is illuminated, and control the display screen to operate in a low-power state substantially for the entire duration when the green light is illuminated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 22, 2011
    Publication date: January 24, 2013
    Inventor: Clas Sivertsen
  • Publication number: 20120146814
    Abstract: An apparatus for guiding an intersection entry and a standby time includes: a data receiver for receiving a control signal transmitted from an traffic signal control system; a vehicle travel information acquisition unit for acquiring a traveling direction and a travel speed of a vehicle; and a data analyzing unit for analyzing whether the vehicle can enter the intersection by analyzing position information and the traveling direction of the vehicle and the control signal to calculate an entry time into and a distance to the intersection or a standby time of the vehicle. The apparatus further includes a data output unit for providing whether to enter the intersection or the standby time of the vehicle to a driver of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 30, 2011
    Publication date: June 14, 2012
    Applicant: Electronics and Telecommunications Research Institute
    Inventor: Moo Seop KIM
  • Publication number: 20120140075
    Abstract: Traffic signals include displays and controllers for displaying information relating to the general condition of the traffic signal. The information can include a time remaining in seconds until the next change in the general condition. Traffic signal systems are adaptable to facilitate passage of emergency vehicles through intersections, including traffic signal systems with flat panel screens. The displays can be flat panel screens displaying information in multiple information formats.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2011
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Inventor: Thomas W. Cunningham
  • Publication number: 20120026014
    Abstract: A roadside equipment (RSE) system that can be used for controlling traffic signals and other equipment and corresponding method. A method includes maintaining a traffic signal in a GREEN phase in a first direction, including displaying a GREEN indicator in the first direction. The method includes detecting an event indicating that the phase of the traffic signal in the first direction should be changed and changing the phase of the traffic signal to a pre-YELLOW phase in response to the detected event, including continuing to display the GREEN indicator in the first direction. The method includes wirelessly transmitting a message indicating the pre-YELLOW phase and a phase time, the phase time indicating a next change of phase of the traffic signal, and changing the phase of the traffic signal to a YELLOW phase when the phase time has been reached.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2010
    Publication date: February 2, 2012
    Applicant: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: David Dodd Miller, Mark Allen Clark
  • Publication number: 20110133955
    Abstract: A traffic control system for controlling vehicular traffic flow at intersections in which the conventional red/yellow/green three-light traffic signal that informs a motorist to stop, prepare to stop, and go is supplemented with multiple yellow light signals which are integrated as part of the traffic light. The additional yellow light signals inform a motorist that they will have sufficient time to make a gradual normal stop at the intersection before the red stop light is switched on by dividing the duration of the yellow cautionary signal into multiple yellow light signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 4, 2009
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Inventors: Carey Plazak, Joseph Plazak
  • Publication number: 20110133956
    Abstract: A drive assist device and method capable of preventing the confusion of a driver at a traffic signal with an arrow lamp are provided. An ECU has a section for determining whether or not it is possible to pass a signal, which determines whether or not a vehicle can pass a signal, and a signal waiting time notification control section, which determines a signal waiting time of the vehicle and displays it on a display unit when the section for determining whether or not it is possible to pass a signal determines that the vehicle cannot pass a signal. The section for determining whether or not it is possible to pass a signal determines not only a lighting time of only a red signal but also a lighting time of a red signal and an arrow lamp and a lighting time of a yellow signal subsequent thereto are determined as a no-pass time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 8, 2008
    Publication date: June 9, 2011
    Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Yuki Yamada
  • Patent number: 7825825
    Abstract: A terminal and computer program product for receiving traffic information, a method of providing traffic light information, and a method of guiding a signal are provided. The method of providing traffic light information includes receiving a message comprising traffic light information and having a hierarchical structure; acquiring the traffic light information by decoding the message; and displaying signal information of a specific traffic light in a display based on the traffic light information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: LG Electronics Inc.
    Inventor: Young Jin Park
  • Publication number: 20100259419
    Abstract: In combination with a standard traffic control signal having green, yellow and red lights disposed therein and lit in sequence for control of traffic, the improvement comprises an apparatus for providing a warning to drivers as to when a green light on a standard traffic signal will be changing to yellow. The apparatus comprises a countdown timer member disposed one of adjacent to and within such green light of such traffic signal for counting down a predetermined number of seconds before such green light turns to yellow and a countdown display monitor disposed one of in and adjacent to such timer member for displaying final seconds before such green light turns to yellow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2010
    Publication date: October 14, 2010
    Inventors: Russell Renner, Toni Renner
  • Patent number: 7796053
    Abstract: An improved traffic light includes interval lights which are controlled by a control unit mounted to the light housing. The control unit allows the use of existing wiring and makes the light periods dynamic, that is, the traffic light periods can be responsive to changes in traffic flow as well as to the approach of emergency vehicles in real time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 27, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2010
    Inventors: Persio Walter Bortolono, Henry Kasdorf
  • Publication number: 20100117861
    Abstract: An invention regarding traffic flow management “Fast Lane On Warning” (FLOW) is disclosed whereby individual vehicles are informed and told what speed to go in order to pass through a traffic signal while the light is green. A FLOW (“fast lane on warning”) director sequencer works in conjunction with a traffic signal sequencer (commonly known in the art), both of which have the same service cycle period Pi. The (RGY) type phases and FLOW readout phases are set for each unique particular intersection. While the traffic sequencer controls repeating RGY cycles, the flow director sequencer instructs, generates, transmits repeating cycles of changeable readouts on one or more roadside unit (RSU) emplacements positioned up the road from the traffic signal for one or more lanes in one or more directions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 27, 2009
    Publication date: May 13, 2010
    Inventor: James J. Free
  • Patent number: 7667617
    Abstract: A messaging board and a traffic light apparatus comprising a primary traffic panel including a first matrix of multicolored LEDs for directing motor traffic by displaying a plurality of images; a message panel including a second matrix of multicolored LEDs for displaying information unrelated to the directing of traffic; and a personal device interface providing two-way communication of information between the traffic light apparatus and at least one local user with a personal portable electronic device is disclosed. The messaging board is capable of being used as a communications station, as well as an information terminal and/or point-of-sales station.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 23, 2010
    Inventor: Teddy Yeung Man Lo
  • Publication number: 20090135024
    Abstract: Provided are a traffic light display control system and a display method thereof capable of accurately predicting a warning from a yellow light as a signal for alerting drivers to a residual time of a green light and a prepare-to-stop light, and providing traffic instruction.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 16, 2007
    Publication date: May 28, 2009
    Inventors: Jin-gu Park, Young-seok Yang, Jung-hae Park
  • Patent number: 7538689
    Abstract: Methods and systems use a programmable sign display located in proximity to a traffic light to provide information to motorists upon the motorists directing their attention toward the traffic light. The programmable sign display may receive programming for content to be displayed in various ways, such as through an interface to a telephone network accessible by a cell phone that sends programming information to the sign. The programmable sign may be used to inform motorists of a radio frequency upon which relevant information such as advertising or traffic reports is being broadcast. The programmable sign may be used to provide textual or graphical information, such as an instruction to motorists that relates to avoiding an approaching emergency vehicle. Additionally, management of the sign is provided to coordinate programming and control of the content being displayed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2009
    Assignee: 3M Innovative Properties Company
    Inventor: Michael A. Haase
  • Patent number: 7468680
    Abstract: A traffic light safety zone is a painted marked area, of parallel lines, approaching a traffic intersection to warn motorists whether they can safety proceed through the road intersection before a traffic sign light turns red, the zones are configured to indicate whether a motorist in the zone has clearance at a designated speed to proceed and cross with safety, the zone parallel colored thermal plastic painted lines form a visual indicator, and give an audio output due to the thickness of the thermal painted plastic; a distinctive traffic sign indicates to motorists of an approaching traffic light safety zone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 23, 2008
    Inventor: John Heffernan
  • Publication number: 20080272936
    Abstract: This invention relates to provide a pedestrian signal system not only for the normal pedestrian but also for the blinds, the disabled person of weak sight, and the illiterates by displaying the remaining time of each signal change in image figures at the signal head and by generating voice signal in real time. It reduces the cost of the system fabrication, installation and maintenance of the system by combining the five functions of the pedestrian signals such as a walk signal, a stop signal, a remaining time of each signal of red/green and/or the voice generator for blinds in a one signal head. Also, this invention provides the useful double safety traffic signal system especially for a school zone by installing LED studs on the stop line at crossroad for warning to drivers by blinking the LED studs automatically when the walk signal is on-mode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2006
    Publication date: November 6, 2008
    Inventors: Jong Hae Kim, Tommy Y. Kim, Kyoung Ja Han
  • Patent number: 7443315
    Abstract: A vertical by standing LED paneled traffic light that is capable of communicating approximately how much time remains before the traffic light changes from a signal directing motorists to proceed to a signal directing motorists to stop. The traffic light having an LED panel for directing motor traffic, an LED panel for directing pedestrian traffic, an LED street sign and an LED panel for displaying an animated advertisement or important message, such as traffic conditions ahead.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2004
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2008
    Inventor: Teddy Yeung Man Lo
  • Patent number: 7405647
    Abstract: A device includes a cap attachable to a receptacle for co-acting therewithin enclosing medication and timing a predetermined interval for taking the medication defined by one timing schedule of a set of selectable timing schedules. An electronic timing circuit is constructed and arranged to provide an alarm signal designating a time for taking the medication at the expiration at a predetermined time interval defined by the timing schedule. The electronic timing circuit is housed in the cap and includes schedule processing circuitry that defines the set of selectable timing schedules, and a set of outputs for issuing electrical signals at the expiration of the predetermined time interval. The device has a top part that fits snuggly inside the cap and remains attached to the cap under normal circumstances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 2002
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Remind Cap Pte. Ltd.
    Inventors: Roger M. Rosche, Han Kort
  • Publication number: 20080136672
    Abstract: A pedestrian light has a base, a circuit board mounted in the base, an LED panel mounted in the base and a protect lid mounted on the base to cover the circuit board and the LED panel. The LED panel has an outer loop region and an inner rectangular region. The circuit board control the inner rectangular region to display a traffic sign such as a walk or a stop sign, and also controls the outer loop region to show countdown information about the remaining seconds after which the present displayed traffic sign will be changed. Since the pedestrian light uses only a single screen to display the traffic sign and countdown information, more space can be saved, and the traffic light can be displayed in a larger size to improve the recognition on traffic signs at pedestrian crossing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2006
    Publication date: June 12, 2008
    Inventor: Yih-Jiun SHEN
  • Patent number: 7375650
    Abstract: The present invention provides traffic lights comprising an LED panel for directing motor traffic, an LED panel for directing pedestrian traffic, an LED street sign, an LED panel for displaying an animated advertisement or important message, such as traffic conditions ahead, and a personal device interface providing two-way communication of information between the traffic light and at least one local user with a personal portable electronic device. The present invention also provides LED traffic lights that are capable of communicating approximately how much time remains before the traffic light changes from a signal directing motorists to proceed to a signal directing motorists to stop, and a personal device interface providing two-way communication of information between the traffic light and at least one local user with a personal portable electronic device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2008
    Inventor: Teddy Yeung Man Lo
  • Patent number: 7330130
    Abstract: A traffic light indicator warns the motorists and pedestrians of the remaining before the traffic light changes through a visual and pictorial display defined within the light indicators of the traffic light structure. One or more light indicators are programmed to display a selected pattern of diminishing light portions within the area of the light selected indicators, gradually expanding a no-light zone with the passage of seconds remaining before the traffic light changes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2006
    Date of Patent: February 12, 2008
    Inventors: Michael I. Bolotin, Lev M. Bolotin, Jana Bolotin
  • Publication number: 20080030372
    Abstract: A traffic system that helps a driver to save gasoline by avoiding red light or by decelerating before a red light. It predicts the colors of a traffic light and informs about the future traffic light colors that will happen to a driver. The system comprising three kinds of moving sections representing three future colors: green, yellow, and red. The moving sections are moving towards the traffic light. There is a driver advisor in a vehicle displaying the positions of the vehicle, the traffic light, and the moving sections.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 2, 2006
    Publication date: February 7, 2008
    Inventor: Guixian Lu
  • Publication number: 20070296610
    Abstract: A traffic light safety zone is a painted marked area, of parallel lines, approaching a traffic intersection to warn motorists whether they can safety proceed through the road intersection before a traffic sign light turns red, the zones are configured to indicate whether a motorist in the zone has clearance at a designated speed to proceed and cross with safety, the zone parallel colored thermal plastic painted lines form a visual indicator, and give an audio output due to the thickness of the thermal painted plastic; a distinctive traffic sign indicates to motorists of an approaching traffic light safety zone.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 24, 2006
    Publication date: December 27, 2007
    Inventor: John Heffernan
  • Patent number: 7187301
    Abstract: A traffic system that helps a driver to save gasoline by avoiding red light or by decelerating before a red light. It predicts the colors of a traffic light and informs about the future traffic light colors that will happen to a driver. The system comprising a sub-control system, three kinds of moving sections representing three future colors: green, yellow, and red. The positions of the moving sections are showed by indicators. The indicators are secured along one side of the street.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 2004
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2007
    Inventor: Guixian Lu
  • Patent number: 6980126
    Abstract: A unit for pedestrian control of traffic lights operated by a traffic light controller, comprises a casing adapted to be mounted to a traffic light post, the casing having a bottom face carrying a window, and a photocell mounted in the casing for directing a beam through the window in a downward direction generally parallel to the post to which the casing is mounted. The photocell is responsive to the presence of a pedestrian's hand placed beneath the window in the beam. The photocell is adapted to be operatively connected to the traffic light controller to send a signal thereto when the presence of a pedestrian has been detected.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2003
    Date of Patent: December 27, 2005
    Assignee: Logisig Inc.
    Inventor: Serge Fournier
  • Patent number: RE40737
    Abstract: A transparent lens for motorist traffic light signals and pedestrian “Don't Walk” signs that displays, in Lcd countdown “real-time”, how much time remains before the traffic signal command will change. The lens is easily shaped to be adapted over any existing traffic control device or magnified over the existing control device and works in conjunction with existing technology for timing and control settings to provide a quick and economical installation. The covering lens is a traffic light signaling device combination manufactured as one assembly and comprised of known colored liquid crystal (LED), plasma or pixel generators or other imaging generating technology which is quickly affixed to existing signaling traffic devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Inventor: Paul A. Firestone