Abstract: A control circuit for the turn-signal flasher system of an automotive vehicle. The flasher system includes a relay having switch contacts which are serially connected, together with a direction indicator switch, between the vehicle battery and the turn-signal lamps. A measuring or sampling resistor is connected between the battery and the relay contacts. First and second pulse generators are connected between a first voltage indicator and the relay coil, and are selectively gated to interrupt the relay during normal lamp load conditions. The first pulse generator provides a normal mark-to-space ratio whereas the second pulse generator provides a reduced mark-to-space ratio for use during night driving conditions. Third and fourth pulse generators are responsive to corresponding voltage indicators connected to the measuring resistor. The third and fourth generators function to respectively provide different mark-to-space ratios in response to, and indicative of, lamp outage or current-overload conditions.

Abstract: A turn-signal flasher circuit for automotive vehicles wherein a turn-signal switch controls one of two turn-signal lamp circuits, and in which a hazard warning switch controls both lamp circuits simultaneously. A pulse generator controls the frequency of the flashing light output of the lamps. A second pulse generator, having a mark-to-space ratio which is substantially less than the mark-to-space ratio of the first generator, is responsive to the hazard warning switch to control frequency of the simultaneous flashing of both lamp circuits during the hazard warning operation of the flasher circuit. Accordingly, battery drain is reduced and a longer period of hazard warning operation is attainable.

Abstract: In a vehicle, pulses are passed from a central pulse generator to accessories such as a heater clock, a turn indicator, and a flasher. The indicator and flasher control appropriate vehicle indicator lights with the pulses. Switches in the indicator and flasher enable a gate which passes the pulses from the generator through the indicator, or flasher, to the lamps.

Abstract: A switch particularly for steering columns of automobiles for the selective operation of both light circuits and windshield wiper and washer circuits comprises a U-shaped spring contact having a first spring contact portion in a first plane and a second spring contact portion in a second plane. The switch includes a lever which is pivotal in both the first and second planes and which carries a rod member which may be engaged with the spring first portion to deflect it into engagement with a fixed contact for example for actuating a windshield wiper washer fluid supply circuit and which may be engaged during its pivotal movement for example in a vertical direction to move the spring second portion to engage a fixed contact which for example may operate a by-pass light circuit. The double spring contact actually includes the first spring portion which extends substantially vertical and at right angles to a horizontal portion.