Supported By Vehicle Structure (e.g., Especially Adapted For Vehicle) Patents (Class 362/459)
  • Publication number: 20140056020
    Abstract: A light unit for a motor vehicle with an illuminated area through which visible light can be emitted. The illuminated area is formed by a first and a second planar OLED-element and the first OLED-element can be controlled independent from the second OLED-element, thus a segmenting of the illuminated area occurs.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2013
    Publication date: February 27, 2014
    Applicant: Hella KGaA Hueck & Co.
    Inventors: Carmen Bungenstock, Carsten Hohmann, Martin Mügge, Alfons Puls, Thomas Vieregge
  • Patent number: 8651713
    Abstract: A system is for a landing site for a helicopter or a load suspended from a helicopter, where landing positioning references are visualized as a luminous pattern on the landing site, and where the landing positioning references are formed as lines of light projected on the landing site from one or more light sources arranged at the landing site. A method is for forming of landing positioning references visualized as a luminous pattern on the landing site.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Inventors: Torgeir Espedal, Per Ingar Mortensen
  • Publication number: 20140036521
    Abstract: A roadway and street lighting apparatus (200) comprises a sensor (214) to detect movement, and a light source (202) for emitting light, a solar panel (206) for providing energy to the light source, all provided in one apparatus. The apparatus does not rely on mains electricity supply and so the current electricity supply can be left disconnected. The lighting device is 100% renewable, stand alone, self sufficient unit which can be operated without the mains electricity supply. The apparatus is durable, sturdy and easy to maintain.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 10, 2012
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Inventor: Adam Elliott
  • Patent number: 8641251
    Abstract: An automobile panel (10) includes at least one icon area (18), the area being illuminated by a light source (20) placed under the ornament panel, the panel including a flexible translucent skin (12), forming the outer surface (14) of the ornament panel, and a backing layer (16), placed against the translucent skin (12), the layer (16) having at least one translucent area aligned with the icon area (18). The ornament panel includes at least one polarizing filter (32) placed between the light source (20) and the icon area (18) so as to polarize the light illuminating the icon area (18) and to substantially prevent the subsequent reflection thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2014
    Assignee: Faurecia Interieur Industrie
    Inventors: Jean-François Oeuvrard, Godefroy Beau
  • Patent number: 8632232
    Abstract: A vehicle lamp includes, within a lamp chamber formed by a lamp body and a front cover, a light source, a columnar light guide having an incident portion at the end thereof in the vicinity of the light source, and an annular reflecting portion arranged in the vicinity of the light source side of the incident portion. The columnar light guide guides incident light from the light source, which enters via the incident portion, and irradiates the incident light from a light-emitting portion on a front side. The annular reflecting portion reflects light with a large emission angle, which has not been able to directly enter the incident portion from the light source, toward the incident portion. The light source is arranged on a central axis of the annular reflecting portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Kazuki Okui, Akio Inoue
  • Patent number: 8628225
    Abstract: A charge port illumination system for an electric vehicle includes a charge port at an electric vehicle for electrically connecting to a charging source to charge a power source of the electric vehicle. A self-contained sealed module is disposed at or proximate to the charge port and includes at least one illumination source. The illumination source, responsive to an activating event associated with an electric charging event of the electric vehicle, is activated to provide illumination at the charge port. The activating event may include detection of touch at or movement of a cover panel and/or a signal from a remote transmitting device or a passive entry device or a motion detection device. The illumination source may be automatically deactivated after at least one of a period of time after activation, plugging in a charging source at the charge port and closing a cover panel at the charge port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 26, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Richard R. Hook, David A. Dingman
  • Publication number: 20130342104
    Abstract: A cup-holder arrangement for a vehicle includes a cup-holder, a lighting unit; and a control unit for controlling a color gradient of the lighting unit as a function of a temperature setting of the cup-holder or of a temperature in or on the cup-holder.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 19, 2013
    Publication date: December 26, 2013
    Inventors: Michael Mayer, Marcus Pfeil
  • Patent number: 8556482
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for producing a headlamp lens (2) for a vehicle headlamp, in particular for a motor-vehicle headlamp (1), wherein the headlamp lens (2) comprises a transparent body (3) with an optically effective surface (5), which is in particular substantially planar and can be turned towards a light source (10), and an optically effective surface (4), which is in particular convex and can be turned away from the light source (10), wherein the gradient of a light-dark boundary (25) projected by the headlamp lens (2) or a further headlamp lens is measured, and wherein a light diffusing structure (35) is produced in the transparent body (3) in accordance with the measured gradient.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 16, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2013
    Assignee: Docter Optics SE
    Inventor: Jens Fischer
  • Patent number: 8545068
    Abstract: Systems and methods for providing adequate lighting and sighting for a bicycle are disclosed. A lighting system that includes an illumination ring configured to be coupled to a wheel is also disclosed. The illumination ring is configured to simultaneously project light forward and to the side of a front wheel and to project light rearward of and to the side of a rear wheel. The illumination ring may be mounted to or integrated with the bicycle wheel. Methods of controlling light sources on the illumination ring are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 18, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Assignee: Revolights, Inc.
    Inventor: John Kent Frankovich
  • Publication number: 20130242581
    Abstract: A lighting device for a vehicle is provided to a vehicular door trim to illuminate a handle housing portion in which an inside handle is housed. The lighting device includes a light exit member, a light exit member mount member provided on an upper side of the inside handle and on which the light exit member is arranged, and a light transmission portion provided to the light exit member mount member and through which light from the light exit member is directed to the handle housing portion. The light exit member is arranged on a vehicular compartment inner side than the light transmission portion.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 4, 2012
    Publication date: September 19, 2013
    Applicants: TOYOTA SHATAI KABUSHIKI KAISHA, TOYOTA BOSHOKU KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Ukai, Hiroyasu Tahara, Takahiro Sugioka, Ryuuji Fukui
  • Patent number: 8525659
    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: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hou-Yao Lin, Sheng-Jung Yu
  • Patent number: 8506145
    Abstract: A method using lens imaging to control hotspots of a vehicle light has steps of providing the area light source having a first shape and a first size, mounting the lens in front of the area light source, choosing a focal length between the area light source and the lens, and determining an angle of view ? using the first size of the area light source and the focal length of the lens and generating a hotspot of the vehicle light having the first size and a size range. By changing the height of the area light source and the focal length of the lens, an angle of view formed by light emitted from the area light source and passing through the lens is adjustable. Accordingly, a range of hotspots of the vehicle light is controllable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: Phoenix Optronics Corp.
    Inventor: Ren-Cheng Chao
  • Patent number: 8480274
    Abstract: A lighting apparatus for use with a skateboard includes a light housing having top, bottom, and side walls defining an interior space. A fastener on the housing top wall is selectively attached to a lower surface of the skateboard. A plurality of lights is positioned in the light housing. A battery is also positioned in the light housing and electrically connected to the plurality of lights. The light housing wide walls are configured so that light from the plurality of lights is visible outside the light housing when the plurality of lights is energized. An extension structure may be connected to the light housing that extends away beyond one of the front and rear end of the skateboard. An entertainment device, such as a pinwheel is coupled to a free end of the extension structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Inventor: Terry Anthony Wallace
  • Publication number: 20130163270
    Abstract: In an elevator installation, a source of electrical energy provides electrical power to a cabin lamp mounted within a cabin to illuminate the cabin during regular and emergency situations. The lamp includes a carrier having at least one terminal to receive electrical power from the source of electrical energy. A light element is coupled to the terminal and positioned on the carrier to illuminate the cabin. The lamp includes further an energy storage device positioned on the carrier and coupled to the light element to power the light element during emergency situations. The carrier, the energy storage device and the light element may be positioned within a housing of the lamp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Publication date: June 27, 2013
    Inventor: Seth Burgin
  • Patent number: 8469563
    Abstract: A turn-indicator light module for an external rear view mirror assembly has at least one or more light emitting sources mounted on one or more printed circuit boards (PCBs). A reflector and a front housing unit create a lens. At least a major portion of the light module follows a portion of said outer contour of the mirror assembly in the driving direction. The PCB is arranged with respect to the reflector to emit light indirectly by light reflection by the reflector along the major portion of the lens portion of the front housing unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Assignee: SMR Patents S.a.r.l.
    Inventors: Hyok-Joo Hwang, Kwang-Ryeol Park
  • Patent number: 8454211
    Abstract: A vehicle headlamp to project light forward from a vehicle includes a headlamp housing supported by a vehicle body and supporting a lens. A headlamp mounting portion is disposed on an upper portion of the headlamp housing. An extending contact portion is continuous with the headlamp mounting portion. A headlamp pressing portion is disposed below the headlamp mounting portion. A first bracket has a first end portion and a second end portion. The first end portion is attached to a body mount of the vehicle body together with the headlamp mounting portion. The second end portion is attached to the headlamp pressing portion. A second bracket has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is attached to the body mount together with the headlamp mounting portion and the first end portion. The second portion is close to the extending contact portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 16, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinichi Todaka, Toshihisa Miyazaki, Takamichi Yabuzaki
  • Publication number: 20130135880
    Abstract: A vehicle article carrier system is disclosed for carrying articles above an outer body surface of a vehicle. At least one support rail is secured to the outer body surface. The support rail uses a support foot at each of its opposite ends, with each support foot being adapted to be secured to the outer body surface of the vehicle. A solar panel is used for collecting solar energy. A battery is used for storing electrical energy created using the collected solar energy. A light is powered by the battery, with the light forming an integral portion of the support rail.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2012
    Publication date: May 30, 2013
    Applicant: JAC PRODUCTS, INC.
    Inventor: JAC Products, Inc.
  • Patent number: 8444305
    Abstract: A head light device, according to one embodiment, has a head light, a position light provided around the head light, a reflector to reflect bulb light of the head light, and an extension covering the perimeter of the reflector. The extension covers a position in front of the position light, and the extension is provided with openings, and reflection members to guide the light of the position light to the outside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2013
    Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hiroshi Nishijima, Hiroyasu Ota, Hayato Ohashi, Eiji Ashihara
  • Publication number: 20130114276
    Abstract: Disclosed herein is a method of manufacturing an insert sheet for an automobile interior material. The method includes: forming a surface treatment layer on a carrier film; forming a pattern-printed layer by printing a heat-resistant and light-resistant resin on the surface treatment layer to a thickness of 2 to 5 microns; forming an adhesive layer by laminating an acrylic adhesive on the pattern-printed layer to a thickness of 1 to 3 microns; laminating the adhesive layer such that the adhesive layer is placed on the surface of a base layer to which a transparent ABS sheet is applied, and heating the adhesive layer to combine the adhesive layer with the base layer; and removing the carrier film.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 6, 2011
    Publication date: May 9, 2013
    Applicant: LG HAUSYS, LTD.
    Inventor: Min-Ho Lee
  • Patent number: 8432098
    Abstract: The invention relates to a lighting device for a motor vehicle. Said lighting device comprises a gas discharge lamp (1; 96) for emitting light, a starting device for providing a starting voltage for starting the gas discharge lamp (1; 96) and a control device for providing an input voltage for the starting device and an operating voltage for operation of the gas discharge lamp (1; 96). The control device is an integral part of the starting device. In order to come to grips with the problems associated with space and temperature with such lighting devices, the invention proposes that the combined starting and control device (5; 80) has a plug element (6) for connecting a vehicle power supply system voltage (7), the plug element (6) being in the form of a printed circuit board plug, which is formed by conductor tracks (21; 23) guided at an edge of a printed circuit board (20) of the starting and control device (5; 80).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: Automotive Lighting Reutlingen GmbH
    Inventors: Thomas Froehlich, Jochen Mehl, Christian Johann, Matthias Roder, Franco Marcori, Alain Bosero
  • Publication number: 20130094231
    Abstract: An illuminated sports board has: a top sheet having a board top surface; a core layer having an optional longitudinal groove; an LED strip can be mounted at least partially within the longitudinal groove; a battery housing mounted on a top surface of the board. A switch is mounted to the battery housing. A first terminal is formed as an aperture mounted to the board top surface. The LED strip is mounted below the top sheet. A first terminal conductor is electrically connecting the first terminal to the LED layer. A second terminal is formed as an aperture mounted to the board top surface. A second terminal conductor electrically connects the second terminal to the LED layer. A first bolt makes electrical connection between the first terminal and the battery housing. A second bolt makes electrical connection between the second terminal and the switch.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Publication date: April 18, 2013
    Inventors: Tyler Sherman, Eric Robert Pohto
  • Publication number: 20130082161
    Abstract: An external control stand for a self-propelled construction machine. The construction machine has a working component that can be operated from the external control stand. The invention includes a lighting device for illuminating a ground section on the external control stand, as seen in the direction of travel, in front of, behind and/or below the external control stand.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 2, 2012
    Publication date: April 4, 2013
    Applicant: JOSEPH VOGELE AG
    Inventor: JOSEPH VOGELE AG
  • Publication number: 20130077328
    Abstract: A charge port illumination system for an electric vehicle includes a charge port at an electric vehicle for electrically connecting to a charging source to charge a power source of the electric vehicle. A self-contained sealed module is disposed at or proximate to the charge port and includes at least one illumination source. The illumination source, responsive to an activating event associated with an electric charging event of the electric vehicle, is activated to provide illumination at the charge port. The activating event may include detection of touch at or movement of a cover panel and/or a signal from a remote transmitting device or a passive entry device or a motion detection device. The illumination source may be automatically deactivated after at least one of a period of time after activation, plugging in a charging source at the charge port and closing a cover panel at the charge port.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2012
    Publication date: March 28, 2013
    Applicant: MAGNA MIRRORS OF AMERICA, INC.
    Inventor: MAGNA MIRRORS OF AMERICA, INC.
  • Patent number: 8403546
    Abstract: An illuminating device includes a light source body and a lens array. The light source body includes a plurality of light sources. The lens array includes an opposed surface, a reverse surface, a plurality of lenses, a recess, and a projection. The plurality of lenses corresponds respectively to the plurality of light sources. The plurality of lenses includes a first lens and a second lens, which is located adjacent to the first lens. The recess is formed at an end portion of the first lens adjacent to the second lens. The projection is formed at an end portion of the second lens adjacent to the first lens. The projection is coupled with the recess, so that at least a part of a boundary line between the first lens and the second lens is formed in a concave-convex shape as a result of a combination of the recess and the projection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 26, 2013
    Assignee: Denso Corporation
    Inventor: Kazumasa Kurokawa
  • Publication number: 20130057160
    Abstract: An LED lamp is placed in service on an automotive vehicle to enhance nighttime visual ability or anywhere where increased lighting is needed. The LED lamp utilizes a multi-stage power and control design, where the LED drive current is managed by an LED constant current controller that is coupled to a microprocessor that commands the intensity value of an LED array. The microprocessor manages the light intensity of the LED array using well known pulse-width modulation control methods. The microprocessor measures the voltage of the DC power source and to detect when DC power is removed. Once this detection has occurred, the microprocessor signals the LED current controller to change the current operational mode being delivered to the LED array to the next available operational mode, or alternatively, to the next appropriate operational mode to be used as determined by software stored within the microprocessor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2011
    Publication date: March 7, 2013
    Inventors: Stephen Adams, Jim Rhodes
  • Patent number: 8388200
    Abstract: A vehicle light can improve the visibility (noticeability) for pedestrians, roadside obstructs, other vehicles and the like in actual traffic environments. The vehicle light can be configured to project light beams with a predetermined white color, and can include a light source with a color temperature range of 4500 K to 7000 K. The light source emits light beams including four color light beams represented by four coordinate values of predicted colors including red, green, blue and yellow in the a* b* coordinate system corresponding to the CIE 1976 L*a*b* color space. The four coordinate values in the a* b* coordinate system can be encompassed by respective circle areas having a radius of, for example, 5, and each having center coordinate values of (41.7, 20.9) for red, (?39.5, 14.3) for green, (8.8, ?29.9) for blue and (?10.4, 74.2) for yellow, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Stanley Electric Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shinichi Kojima, Masafumi Ohno, Yasushi Kita, Takako Minoda, Naoko Takenobu, Susumu Nakamura, Norikatsu Myojin, Takashi Sato
  • Publication number: 20130051060
    Abstract: A comprehensive system for providing elements to make a personal vehicle safe and legal for driving on common streets. The system includes all lighting elements that make a personal vehicle street-legal and safe within a single package to allow for easy additions to existing vehicles. Combined elements may include headlights, turning signals, running/parking lights, brake lights, a horn, and windshield wipers.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 9, 2011
    Publication date: February 28, 2013
    Inventor: Robert J. Rhodes
  • Patent number: 8376596
    Abstract: This piece includes a rigid support frame (12) and an external skin (14) of soft appearance. The skin (14) has an exterior surface (24) intended to be placed opposite an occupant of the motor vehicle. The piece includes a foam layer (16) inserted between the support frame (12) and the exterior skin (14) and an assembly (18) for displaying at least one light signal on the exterior surface (24) of the skin. The display assembly (18) includes a device (30) for illuminating, through the skin, from the interior surface (26) of the skin, a chosen region (48) of the exterior surface (24). The illuminating device (30) is flexible so that it deforms when touched. It is fastened on the interior surface (26) the skin. A region (40) of the foam layer (16) is inserted between the support frame (12) and the illuminating device (30).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Faurecia Interieur Industrie
    Inventors: Godefroy Beau, Jean-Francois Oeuvrard
  • Patent number: 8337060
    Abstract: Systems and methods for providing adequate lighting and sighting for a bicycle are disclosed. A lighting system that includes an illumination ring configured to be coupled to a wheel is also disclosed. The illumination ring is configured to simultaneously project light forward and to the side of a front wheel and to project light rearward of and to the side of a rear wheel. The illumination ring may be mounted to or integrated with the bicycle wheel. Methods of controlling light sources on the illumination ring are also disclosed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2012
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Inventor: John Kent Frankovich
  • Patent number: 8337061
    Abstract: An illuminating device for vehicles, in particular a tail light, with a housing containing at least one light source, a support accommodating the light source, and a reflector, and with a diffusion lens for covering an opening of the housing. The reflector, which is provided with an electrically conductive coating, is assigned charge dissipation path in such a manner that, when electrostatic charging of the reflector occurs, a dissipation current flows along the dissipation path to a connection to earth of the illuminating device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 25, 2012
    Assignee: Hella KGaA Hueck & Co.
    Inventors: Oliver Kaak, Juergen Higgen, Frank Johannsmann
  • Patent number: 8328400
    Abstract: A light system comprising a wheel having an outer surface and a center hole, the wheel is attachable to a stroller by sliding the center hole onto an axle of the stroller; a plurality of light components embedded in the wheel, the light components are positioned all along the outer surface of the wheel, the light components are operatively connected to a battery disposed in or on the wheel; and a control switch operatively connected to the light components, the control switch can move between an on position to turn on the light components and an off position to turn off the light components, wherein the control switch is biased in the off position and can be moved to the on position via centrifugal force, the centrifugal force being obtained by spinning of the wheel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 11, 2012
    Inventor: Terry L. Hemmis
  • Publication number: 20120307508
    Abstract: The present invention makes it possible to inhibit an SOA (Safe Operating Area) in a vertical-type bipolar transistor from narrowing. A p-type base layer 150 includes a first peak, a second peak, and a third peak in an impurity profile in the thickness direction. The first peak is located on the topmost surface side of a semiconductor substrate 100. The second peak is located closer to the bottom face side of the semiconductor substrate 100 than the first peak and higher than the first peak. The third peak is located between the first peak and the second peak.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 4, 2012
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: Renesas Electronics Corporation
    Inventors: Yuki FUKUI, Hiroaki Katou
  • Patent number: 8317376
    Abstract: A pocket assembly is provided for mounting at a recess of a vehicle body where a charge port of the vehicle is located, the pocket assembly has a body mountable to a vehicle, wherein the body has a base portion and a bezel portion, at least one outer layer established at an outer surface of said bezel portion, wherein the at least one outer layer is viewable at the side of the vehicle when the charge port is being accessed by a user of the vehicle and an illumination source disposed at or behind said bezel portion, and an illumination source being operable to illuminate indicia established at or on the bezel portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2012
    Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard R. Hook, David A. Dingman
  • Publication number: 20120287655
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a heat dissipation device, which comprises: a fluid, a fluid delivery device, and a circular pipe. The fluid delivery device is for propelling and delivering the fluid, the circular pipe is connected with the fluid delivery device, at least a portion of the circular pipe itself contacting with a heat generation device for conducting heat to the portion of the circular pipe, so as letting the fluid to be delivered by the fluid delivery device for delivering heat to the rest portion of the circular pipe, and to dissipate the heat generation device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 4, 2012
    Publication date: November 15, 2012
    Inventors: Hao Jan Mou, Ta Wei Hsueh, Ying Lun Chang, Shih Chang Chen, Yung Lung Han, Chi Feng Huang
  • Patent number: 8305225
    Abstract: A lamp assembly to be incorporated into or positioned on a truck's existing support structure comprising: a heat sink; an electrically insulating dielectric coating disposed on the heat sink; a plurality of circuit traces disposed on the dielectric coating; a plurality of LEDs disposed on and electrically connected to one another by the dielectric coating; and a cover disposed substantially over and protecting the heat sink, the dielectric coating, the circuit traces, and the LEDs. The LEDs are spaced apart at intervals to provide general illumination. The cover can be clear or be solid and have a plurality of apertures, each corresponding to one LED, and can further include a lens over the apertures.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Truck-Lite Co., LLC
    Inventors: Craig Hefright, Timothy DiPenti, Todd Kolstee
  • Patent number: 8297791
    Abstract: A transit vehicle lighting system has a plurality of LED-based lighting fixtures for providing interior illumination. A control network comprises a plurality of slave nodes for controlling the LED-based lighting fixtures, and a master node for controlling the slave nodes. The master node may be connected to the slave nodes by a combined power/communication bus in a daisy chain fashion. The slave node may include a power regulator and a controller for providing a target current command to the power regulator, and may adjust the target current based upon temperature measurements or a recorded age of the LEDs. An optical sensor may provide automatic dimming. A reduced number of LEDs may be used in an emergency mode. The lighting fixture may include a ceiling panel fixture and a riser panel attachable by way of a hinge mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2012
    Assignee: I/O Controls Corporation
    Inventors: Baixiong Kuang, Jerry Lin, Yongchang Wang, Chin Seong Khor
  • Publication number: 20120257403
    Abstract: An illumination device includes, but is not limited to at least one light-conductor plate and at least one light source. The at least one light-conductor plate includes, but is not limited to a first main surface and a first lateral surface. In addition, the at least one light-conductor plate includes, but is not limited to light-decoupling elements at least in a part region of the volume of the at least one light-conductor plate. The at least one light-conductor plate is arranged in an outer region of the motor vehicle and forms a decorative shaped part of the motor vehicle. Light of the at least one light source can be coupled into the at least one light-conductor plate via the first lateral surface and can be at least partially decoupled from the at least one light-conductor plate with the light-decoupling elements via the first main surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 6, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventor: Ralf WILFERT
  • Publication number: 20120256543
    Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to illuminated devices attached to vehicles. More specifically, an illuminated device may be attached to a vehicle in the form of an illuminated logo or emblem. The illumination of the device may be controlled for color, state, and/or intensity in response to vehicle signals received by the device. In addition, the illuminated device may use switching circuitry to interface with a vehicle's electrical power and/or signals.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 11, 2012
    Publication date: October 11, 2012
    Applicant: CMARLITE, LLC
    Inventors: Howard Marcove, Philip Allen Boe
  • Patent number: 8282253
    Abstract: A mirror reflective element sub-assembly for an exterior rearview mirror assembly of a vehicle includes a mirror reflective element, a mirror back plate having a generally planar portion and a display receiving portion, and a display element. The generally planar portion of the mirror back plate is attached at the rear surface of the mirror reflective element. The front surface of the display receiving portion is generally coplanar with the front surface of the mirror reflective element. The display receiving portion is configured so that at least a portion of light emitted by the light source of the display element passes through the display receiving portion and exits the display receiving portion at an angle relative to the front surface of the display receiving portion so that, when the light source is activated, the light emitted by the display element is directed generally toward the driver of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 9, 2012
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventor: Niall R. Lynam
  • Publication number: 20120230047
    Abstract: An interior vehicle component comprises a base and a panel coupled to the base. The panel is moveable between a first position and a second position. The panel has a first side and an opposite second side. The first side is configured to be visible to a vehicle occupant when the panel is in the first position. The second side cooperates with the base to define a cavity. The panel has an aperture extending through the first side and the second side. The panel also comprises at least one of a solid state switch and a light source supported at the first side of the panel, and a flexible circuit coupled to a backside of the at least one of the solid state switch and the light source through the aperture.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 9, 2010
    Publication date: September 13, 2012
    Inventors: Nels R. Smith, Michael Catlin, Stephen J. Gwinnup, Rodney J. Tindall
  • Patent number: 8226284
    Abstract: An electric charge receptacle for a vehicle configured to be used with an electric plug includes a housing, a plurality of prongs, and a light source. The plurality of prongs are disposed within the housing, and are configured to mate with the electric plug. The light source is disposed within the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventors: Craig R. Markyvech, Owen E. Resh
  • Patent number: 8215808
    Abstract: A lighting system for a stroller includes: a power generation system coupled to at least one wheel of the stroller; a power source operationally coupled to the power generation system and configured to receive and store power generated by the power generation system; at least one first light source coupled to at least one leg of the stroller and configured to be powered by the power source; and at least one second light source coupled to a central hub of the stroller and configured to be powered by the power source. The at least one first light source is controlled to provide constant lighting for safety purposes and the at least one second light source is controlled to provide light to a pathway in a low light condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 4, 2009
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2012
    Assignee: Thorley Industries LLC
    Inventors: Robert D. Daley, Henry F. Thorne
  • Publication number: 20120170294
    Abstract: In various embodiments, a housing for a ballast for operating a discharge lamp provided as a light source for a vehicle headlamp includes a housing forming an inner chamber to accommodate electrical components of the ballast, the housing configured such that it has an annular circumferential recess on its exterior, in which is arranged a sealing ring and on which fasteners are provided for the ballast, the fasteners being arranged outside the area on the exterior of the housing enclosed by the annular recess and the sealing ring.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 19, 2010
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Applicant: OSRAM AG
    Inventor: Lars Kolbe
  • Publication number: 20120170299
    Abstract: A vehicle headlight having a plurality of semiconductor emitters for the alternative production of a low-beam light distribution and a daytime driving light distribution is provided. For producing the low-beam light distribution, a low-beam light luminous surface is generated by the vehicle headlight. For producing the daytime driving light distribution, a daytime driving light luminous surface is generated by the vehicle headlight. The low-beam light luminous surface and the daytime driving light luminous surface are essentially identical.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2012
    Publication date: July 5, 2012
    Applicant: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Sebastian MORGENSTERN, Stefan Danner, Christopher Weil, Helmut Erdl
  • Publication number: 20120155097
    Abstract: An illuminable baby stroller having embedded light sources and means for controlling the lights, the light sources preferably comprising light emitting diodes (LEDs) embedded in the frame of the stroller in translucent sections of the frames making the stroller visible in dim lighting and in the dark wherein the stroller includes a forward light source that illuminates the path in front of the stroller and a rear light source for providing illumination behind the stroller and includes at least one red light source, the light sources being powered by a rechargeable battery that is permanently concealed in a tray to prevent access by the child and powered by an electric circuit and switch that are secured in the frame or a tray of the stroller to provide convenient access for the caretaker while keeping it out of reach from the child.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 12, 2011
    Publication date: June 21, 2012
    Inventor: Gerald Gross
  • Publication number: 20120140496
    Abstract: A headlamp according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a laser diode which emits a laser beam and a light emitting section which emits light upon receiving the laser beam. The light emitting section has heat-resistant (heat-tolerant) fluorescent material dispersed inside heat-resistant transparent sealing material. Accordingly, the headlamp is capable of functioning as a small-sized light source having high luminance and high luminous flux and which can be used for a long period of time.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 6, 2011
    Publication date: June 7, 2012
    Applicant: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Katsuhiko KISHIMOTO, Rina SATO
  • Publication number: 20120106188
    Abstract: A headlamp of an embodiment of this invention includes a laser element, a light emitting section, and a parabolic mirror. A part of the parabolic mirror is provided so as to face an upper surface of the light emitting section, which upper surface has a larger area than that of a side surface of the light emitting section. The light emitting section emits fluorescence in such a manner that distribution of the fluorescence corresponds to the Lambertian distribution.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 28, 2011
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Applicant: Sharp Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Koji TAKAHASHI, Yoshiyuki Takahira, David Montgomery, James Suckling
  • Publication number: 20120106178
    Abstract: A light emitting device of the present invention includes a light-emitting section for generating fluorescence by receiving a laser beam, and a light irradiation unit for irradiating a light irradiated surface of the light emitting section with a laser beam that increases regularly in beam diameter in a direction in which the laser beam travels.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 21, 2011
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Applicant: SHARP KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Koji TAKAHASHI, Yoshiyuki Takahira
  • Publication number: 20120092886
    Abstract: A skateboard lighting system is provided which is mountable to a skateboard having a deck, a deck top surface, a deck bottom surface and a pair of supporting trolleys, each trolley being mounted to the deck bottom surface and defining a trolley wheel axis. The lighting system comprises a lighting system frame mountable to the deck bottom surface proximate a first trolley and at least one light mounted to the frame, the light including a first lighting element arrayed to direct light along a light axis, the light axis being substantially parallel to the trolley wheel axis. A power source is provided in electrical communication with the light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 18, 2010
    Publication date: April 19, 2012
    Inventors: Vance Calhoun, Bryan Bartlett
  • Patent number: RE44787
    Abstract: An adjustable, elevated and externally mounted lighting device (21) for vehicles such as school busses (22) and other types of vehicles, that provides a pool of light (23) to passenger loading and unloading areas for better visibility of passengers, vehicle drivers, and other vehicle operators in the vicinity during hours of darkness. The light's adjustability, combined with a diffused lens (29), provides a broad and bright pool of light (23) without obstructing passenger visibility or driver use of side mirrors (30). The light (21) is connected to the vehicle's on-board electrical power system and is activated automatically without distracting driver attentiveness, but with provisions for manual over-ride activation if needed in special circumstances such as emergencies or wheelchair loading/unloading.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Bus Safety Lights, LLC
    Inventor: Lynn Emerson Burgess