Abstract: A self-contained illuminated sign for mounting on a vehicle is disclosed. The sign includes a front panel, a rear panel situated opposite and substantially parallel to the front panel in spaced relation therefrom to define a space therebetween, and a light source comprising a plurality of LEDs. The light source is positioned between the front and rear panels and is configured to emit light that emanates from the front panel. The front panel is thus backlit to display indicia. A system for supporting a self-contained illuminated sign on a vehicle is also disclosed. The system includes the sign and a separate mounting frame mountable on a vehicle. The mounting frame is configured to removably receive the sign and, when the sign is received in the mounting frame, to surround a perimeter of the sign while permitting visibility of the front display area. Related methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: A school bus stop arm and drive unit therefor are disclosed. The stop an includes a stop sign and a drive unit for moving the stop sign between a retracted position and a deployed position. The drive unit comprises a motor operably coupled to the stop sign, one or more position sensors operable to detect the presence of the stop sign, and a controller for controlling operation of the motor. The controller configured to, monitor one or more operating characteristics of the motor for conditions indicative of an obstruction to movement of the stop sign, monitor the position sensor for a confirmation signal indicative of the presence of the stop sign in the deployed or retracted position, and based on the conditions indicative of an obstruction and the confirmation signal, determine if the stop sign has reached one of the deployed and retracted positions or is being obstructed.

Abstract: A self-contained illuminated sign for mounting on a vehicle is disclosed. The sign includes a front panel, a rear panel situated opposite and substantially parallel to the front panel in spaced relation therefrom to define a space therebetween, and a light source comprising a plurality of LEDs. The light source is positioned between the front and rear panels and is configured to emit light that emanates from the front panel. The front panel is thus backlit to display indicia. A system for supporting a self-contained illuminated sign on a vehicle is also disclosed. The system includes the sign and a separate mounting frame mountable on a vehicle. The mounting frame is configured to removably receive the sign and, when the sign is received in the mounting frame, to surround a perimeter of the sign while permitting visibility of the front display area. Related methods are also disclosed.