Abstract: A brake light control assembly allows a driver to selectively flash the brake lights of a vehicle upon application of the brakes. The driver of the vehicle selectively determines the pattern of flashes of the brake lights depending upon driving conditions. The brake light control assembly includes a brake light interrupter circuit adapted to be connected to the vehicle for selectively interrupting illuminations of the brake light a predetermined number of times. The brake light control assembly has a switch that is selectively positioned to vary the number of times the illuminations of the brake lights are interrupted each time the brakes are applied. The switch is movable between various positions that correspond to different numbers flashes for the brake lights.

Abstract: A signaling light attachment for bicycles including a pair of turn lights removably couplable with a bicycle. The pair of turn lights include a right turn light and a left turn light in a spaced relationship. The right turn light and the left turn light have a central support extending therebetween. The right turn light and the left turn light each have an internal activation switch. The internal activation switches have cables extending outwardly therefrom. The cables have free ends coupling with respective right and left brake handles of the bicycle. A battery is secured to the bicycle. The battery is connected with the pair of turn lights.

Abstract: An early braking system for a vehicle having wheels comprising, a friction element, a brake pedal and a sensor. The friction element inhibits rotation of the wheels of the vehicle with the braking system having a dormant state wherein the friction element is at a first position spaced a first distance from the wheels. The brake pedal is adapted to be depressed to move the friction element into engagement with a portion of the wheels of the vehicle. The sensor senses an operational parameter of the vehicle. The friction element moves from the first position to a second position spaced a second distance from the wheels in response to a predetermined measurement of the operational parameter and before depression of the brake pedal, wherein the second position is closer to the wheels than the first position.

Abstract: A safety brake light structure capable of displaying traveling conditions and speed of a car includes a display panel formed by a face panel formed by multiple color light emitting diodes, high-luminosity L.E.D., and a numeric display. The display panel is connected to a computer device. The computer device is connected to an accelerator pedal shift, a reversing shift, a braking shift and turn signal lights. The display panel is mounted at the front and rear windows of the car, whereby different colors of the face panel and numbers are used to indicate different traveling conditions and speed of the car so as to enhance safety.

Abstract: A vehicle rear safety light assembly for preventing rear end collisions by giving drivers warning of actions being taken by the user. The vehicle rear safety light assembly includes a transparent housing being adapted to mount to a vehicle; and also includes a first light-emitting member being disposed in the housing and being adapted to be connected to a power source; and further includes a second light-emitting member also being disposed in the housing and also being adapted to be connected to a power source; and also includes a sensor being adapted to be attached to a transmission of the vehicle and being connected to the first and second light-emitting members.

Abstract: An apparatus and method of projecting a no turn warning to an oncoming vehicle or pedestrian. The no turn warning indicates the motor vehicle is proceeding in a straight pathway through an intersection rather than turning either to the left or to the right. At least one visible light is mounted to the frontal exterior of the motor vehicle for projecting the no turn warning. When more than one visible light is mounted to the frontal exterior of the motor vehicle, the no turn signal can flash serial, sequentially or concurrently, in accordance with the controller's preprogrammed paradigm.

Abstract: The progressive vehicle brake light system of the invention consists of a brake sensor arranged to sense the travel of a brake pedal and a brake light display arranged to illuminate or extinguish in sequence or progressively in response to the travel of the brake pedal. A microcontroller is provided for receiving a signal from the brake sensor and controlling the brake light display accordingly. The brake sensor is typically an optical sensor utilizing infrared transmitters and receivers arranged to sense the distance and direction of travel of the brake pedal. The brake light display consists of a row of light emitting diodes (LEDs) which are arranged to illuminate from the opposite ends towards the middle as the brake pedal is depressed and to extinguish in reverse sequence when the brake pedal is released.

Abstract: A message conveying system for motor vehicles that allows a person operating a vehicle to display one of a plurality of messages to other motorists including a message display adapted for positioning within a motor vehicle adjacent to a rear window thereof. The message display includes an alphanumeric screen disposed therein. The message display includes an internal message memory therein for storing a plurality of alphanumeric messages therein. The internal message memory is in communication with the alphanumeric screen. The message display includes an internal message selection control in communication with the internal message memory. A remote control unit is adapted for securement to a dashboard of the motor vehicle. The remote control unit is in communication with the message display. The remote control unit includes a plurality of message buttons.

Abstract: A vehicle safety warning control system comprises an accelerator pedal sensor associated with an accelerator pedal, a brake pedal sensor associated with a brake pedal to detect a normal braking and a panic braking, an impact sensor comprising an impact switch and a processor to detect collision, and a relay connected to the accelerator pedal sensor, the brake pedal sensor and the impact sensor. The relay controls at least one of brake lights and additional lights in response to the brake pedal sensor and the impact sensor. The accelerator pedal has a sensor switch disposed on the accelerator pedal to detect removal of pressure imposed thereon. When the sensor switch in enabled, the accelerator pedal sensor causes the brake lights to be energized at a less than full intensity.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a vehicle warning lighting system having a novel automatic warning light activation system utilized with a conventional vehicle brake lighting system. The downshifting deceleration safety system, including and accelerometer and an optional tachometer, will automatically activate the conventional vehicle brake lighting system under conditions of downshifting causing deceleration. The conventional vehicle brake lighting system includes a battery member being a power source connected through a brake pedal switch to brake light members. Depression of a brake pedal closes the brake pedal switch to energize the brake light members in a conventional manner.

Abstract: A bus has three examples of a vehicle signal light assembly. Each assembly includes a housing base with a perimeter wall defining a cavity. The cavity includes an end portion set off by a partition in the cavity. Separate circuit boards are disposed in the end portion and the remaining portion of the cavity. Each circuit board has an array of LEDs that convey a message. One circuit board can be positioned in the end cavity portion in at least two different orientations. The end portion of the cavity and the one circuit board are preferably octagonal in shape to accommodate several orientations of a circuit board having arrays of LEDs arranged in symbols such as an arrow or a stop sign.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a third brake inner indicating light device, especially one indicating distance of rear objects while backing a car. The present invention mainly comprises a third brake light, a projector and a receiver. The third brake light is connected to the receiver and is designed with an indicating screen at the back. The projector is found at the top of the bumper and connected to the receiver such that a short range electric wave is emitted while backing a car. The receiver is found inside the baggage compartment, is separately connected to the third brake light and the projector and warms the driver of any rear obstacles by means of letters, signals or diagrams after receiving signal from the projector. The present invention hence increases backing car safely.

Abstract: An anti-collision safety light control for a vehicle includes a microprocessor which receives one or more inputs and controls an output of at least one indicator or signaling device in response to the inputs. The microprocessor is continuously powered or energized when the vehicle is in use, such that the indicator may be modulated in situations when the brake pedal of the vehicle is not applied. Preferably, an accelerometer may be included with the safety light system to provide a deceleration signal to the microprocessor, which may determine whether the deceleration is at or above one or more threshold levels and correspondingly modulate the indicator in accordance with the particular threshold level encountered. The microprocessor may modulate the indicator independent of actuation of the brake pedal by a driver of the vehicle.

Abstract: A motor vehicle lighting system includes a master controller, a smart light, and a hot bus. The master controller is electrically couplable to a power supply and is adapted to receive an input signal corresponding to a left turn signal, a right turn signal, a run signal, or a brake signal. The master controller also includes a digital command signal output that is produced in response to the input signal. The smart light includes a light controller and a plurality of light emitting diodes (LED's). The light controller is adapted to control the LED's in response to the command signal. The hot bus electrically couples the master controller to the smart light. Power and the command signal are provided to the smart light over the hot bus.

Abstract: An automobile lamp having a colorless and transparent light source, a housing whose front portion is an-aperture covered with a lens, wherein the housing has a color to be perceived as a uniform color of the automobile lamp when the light source is off, and reflecting portions arranged on the inner back surface of the housing such that they form a mesh or striped pattern when combined with the remaining portion of the inner back surface of the housing. Color uniformity of the automobile lamp when the automobile lamp is off is greatly improved. Furthermore, in spite of small proportion of the reflecting portions as compared with the conventional composition, the automobile lamp is able to emit light in sufficient quantity without any light source with high luminance accompanying high power consumption. There is also provided an automobile rear combination lamp having a turn signal lamp, a back-up lamp, and a stop lamp based on the automobile lamp disclosed herein.

Abstract: A brake indicator system for a vehicle that includes a stop indicator sign assembly and a stop indicator sign illuminator having an illumination source electrically connectable in connection with a brake light circuit of a vehicle such that the illumination source emits light when the brake lights of the vehicle are on and does not illuminate light when the brake lights of the vehicle are off.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a sensor and signal for unsafe occurrences. In the preferred embodiment, a severe braking alert system is coupled to a vehicle for notifying trailing drivers that the vehicle is braking severely. Sensors in the system detect when the vehicle exceeds a predetermined deceleration threshold value thereby causing one or more of the vehicle's existing rear lights to flash for a predetermined time period. Alternatively, a dedicated light(s) can be incorporated. The flashing light(s) alerts trailing drivers to the dangerous condition and provide them with valuable information about the vehicle's rate of deceleration. This allows the trailing drivers to apply the appropriate amount of braking power to their vehicles in order to prevent a rear-end collision. Alternative flashing schemes can also be incorporated to notify the trailing driver about the degree of severity with which the lead vehicle is decelerating.

Abstract: An anti-collision safety light control for a vehicle includes a microprocessor which receives one or more inputs and controls an output of at least one indicator or signaling device in response to the inputs. The microprocessor is continuously powered or energized when the vehicle is in use, such that the indicator may be modulated in situations when the brake pedal of the vehicle is not applied. Preferably, an accelerometer may be included with the safety light system to provide a deceleration signal to the microprocessor, which may determine whether the deceleration is at or above one or more threshold levels and correspondingly modulate the indicator in accordance with the particular threshold level encountered. The microprocessor may modulate the indicator independent of actuation of the brake pedal by a driver of the vehicle.

Abstract: A roadwork safety unit mounts on the receiver hitch of a vehicle and connects to the conventional trailer lighting coupling. The unit includes a carrier for carrying the usual equipment to a site where the safety unit is to be used, for example cones, picks, shovels, rakes and pole-mounted signage. The carrier also carries a telescopically extendible standard supporting a light unit that includes a red stop light and a flashing amber warning light. The lights may be operated by a traffic control person also handling the pole-mounted signage. The unit is quickly and easily mounted on a vehicle for transport to a roadwork site and can be transported along the road with moving roadworks. Floodlights are mounted on the standard to illuminate the area beside the vehicle where the traffic control person would normally be standing. This provides added visibility and safety in night use.

Abstract: A taillight module for motor vehicles attached and coupled to the license plate groove comprising a base, a casing, and a display plate. The base is coupled to the license plate groove. A plurality of lamps is disposed in the base. The lamps are coupled to the circuits of brake light, signal light, and headlight of the motor vehicle to provide an illumination source. The display plate is disposed between the housing and the base. The display plate has labels of text, graphics, and symbols on the surface of the display plate. The taillight module provides a third set of rear light structure for motor vehicles to clearly display a third brake light, signal lights, reverse light, or decorative lights through the lamps.

Abstract: A brake early warning system for a vehicle is disclosed. The vehicle has (1) a steering column assembly (500) having a plurality of components, and (2) a vehicle broadcast system, which includes brake lights, a horn, and headlights. The brake early warning system includes a movement sensor (20) which is connected to the steering column assembly (500), and senses relative movement between two of the steering column assembly (500) components when a driver braces against the steering wheel (508) in an urgent braking situation. In such cases, movement sensor (20) senses relative movement, and generates a signal which activates the brake lights, horn, and headlights, thereby alerting any following driver, as well as others in the vicinity, that the vehicle has commenced rapid braking.

Abstract: A flashing light sequence which is readily distinguished by drivers as the signal for a hazard alert as contrasted with turn signal flashes. An electronic hazard alert flasher unit is described which generates a hazard warning signal which is distinctively different in flash rate and pattern from standard turn signals and other on-off warning lights. One version of the hazard alert flasher unit is intended to replace the standard element presently used in highway vehicles to generate the turn signal and hazard flash pulse. A second version of the hazard alert flasher can be used to control the flash rate of free-standing emergency electric lanterns, illuminated emergency warning triangles, and LED substitutes for pyrotechnic flares. The proposed hazard alert flash pattern consists of three or more short flashes followed by a longer pause.

Abstract: An auxiliary safety warning light system for a vehicle includes a light assembly having a first side lighting portion, a mediate lighting portion and a second side lighting portion and a control unit connecting the light assembly to the light-control system of the vehicle or independently to the steering panel of the vehicle. The light assembly can light and/or blink in different conditions so as to facilitate the identification of the state and intentions of the vehicle and decrease the likelihood of accidents to secure the driver's safety.

Abstract: A vehicle back-up alarm in combination with a vehicle back-up light in any of several embodiments: a single housing containing an alarm, a single housing containing an alarm and a light source, a single housing containing an alarm or other warning device and another sensor, or a housing containing a sensor and light. Included in the first combination is an alternative of a light adapted to be used with an existing vehicle alarm. Other embodiments comprise any combination of one or more of audible warning device, distance-sensing device, warning lights, video and/or audio systems, communication systems or other devices, lighting device, and a standard housing to contain them and mount to a vehicle without modification. The housing includes mounting aids such as resilient grommets or flanges with holes therein which are designed to match either a specific vehicle or a variety of vehicles, and further includes a housing adapted for a vehicle trailer hitch receiver.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a brake signal sensor device which is electrically connected to a warning light by a transfer wire. The brake signal sensor device includes a body, and a cover mounted on the body. The body defines a receiving chamber for securing a contact switch whose one side is provided with two spaced guide plates. A pull wire is used to pull an elastic member to displace a conducting member, such that the contact switch can produce a start signal which is transferred to the warning light, whereby the warning light secured on the bicycle emits light, thereby enhancing the safety of riding the bicycle. The brake signal sensor device may be easily fixed on the brake cable adjacent to the brake lever by a fastening strap without having to be mounted on the brake pad.

Abstract: A circuit and device to detect grounding problems in electrical soldering irons. The device includes a cleaning sponge in electrical connection with a sensor element. The sensor element is connected to the controlling circuitry which is in turn connected to a safety grounding point, such as a screw of a face plate of an electrical outlet. The circuitry includes LED's which indicate when the grounding mechanism is functional, and when the grounding connection is broken. Additional circuitry tests for a low impedance path to ground via a sensor element contacted by the soldering iron tip or (in the case of an isolated tip) the soldering iron heater barrel. Further circuits indicate when the cleaning sponge has gone dry, and when the operator has an unsafe level of electrostatic charge.

Abstract: A complex vehicle communicating system consisting of a onboard microelectronic miniature computer unit installed in the interior of a vehicle and a light emitting polymer (LEP) display panel unit located on the interior of the vehicle rear window. The Automotive Digital Rear Window Display (ADRWD) panel has a data connection input from the Automotive Digital Rear Window Display Unit onboard computer, and a direct data contact from the vehicle's microelectronic main computer. The vehicle operator who's driving the vehicle controls the ADRWD unit computer. It contains a selection of electronic computerized preprogrammed memory insert chips which displays messages that can be selected by the driver. The driver of the vehicle selects a message and commands the computer to transmit the data to the ADRWD unit array display panel. Commands from the vehicle main computer operate in conjunction with the ADRWD unit in regard to current conventional types of signaling devices now equipped on vehicles.

Abstract: A passive warning system for communicating vehicular deceleration and other information through a warning light. A microprocessor-based warning system according to the invention accounts for variations in vehicular speed in generating a warning signal having an intensity level and a blinking rate related to the rate of deceleration of the automobile, the ambient driving conditions and the speed of the automobile. The microprocessor is also programmed to measure speed variations more frequently as the speed of the vehicle increases, allowing information to be communicated in a timely manner. In one embodiment of the invention, the microprocessor is programmed to maintain the highest intensity warning signal activated for a predetermined period of time in order to inform other vehicles of an earlier speed reduction.

Abstract: A vehicular deceleration indication system is provided including an accelerometer situated within a vehicle and adapted to detect a deceleration of the vehicle from an amount of change in momentum thereof with respect to the force of gravity. A lamp assembly includes a plurality lamps each adapted to illuminate upon the actuation thereof. Also included is a control mechanism adapted to actuate the lamps in a predetermined sequence as the detected deceleration increases.

Abstract: A source measure unit provides a constant voltage while measuring current and provides a constant current while measuring voltage. An output stage amplifier with a primary feedback loop provides the voltage and current. A secondary feedback loop includes a sample-and-hold circuit. Switches are provided to connect the secondary feedback loop to the amplifier input and disconnect the primary feedback loop from the amplifier input. While the primary feedback loop is disconnected, voltage or current ranges can be changed without affecting the amplifier output.

Abstract: Emergency vehicle signaling system wherein an emergency vehicle transmits an RF signal having a narrow cone calculated to be received in a second vehicle. The receiver for the second vehicle is equipped with an indicator in the form of a white light which blinks in order to alert the driver of the emergency vehicle that the RF signal which it is transmitting has been received by the second vehicle. Accordingly, occupants of the second or non-emergency vehicle are made aware of the presence of the emergency vehicle while the visual indicator confirms reception of the RF signal.

Abstract: A severe braking warning system for a vehicle is described wherein the system is designed to measure a vehicle's rate of motion and, upon deceleration of the vehicle, affect the vehicle's brake light circuit by switching it on and off at a pulse rate proportional to the severity of deceleration. The system comprises an accelerometer, a microprocessor (either an integrated unit or the vehicle's existing unit), transistor, and a switch in communication with the vehicle's existing brake light circuit. The inventive brake light warning system provides a supplemental indication to other vehicles traveling behind of the rate of braking, thereby reducing the possibility of rear-end collisions.

Abstract: In an automobile having at its back end left and right turn signal lights, left and right side tail lights, left and right side stop lights, left and right side back-up lights and a high mounted stop light substantially centered between left and right sides of the automobile, means are included to additionally pulse the high mounted stop light on-and-off at spaced time intervals as the vehicle drops in speed below a predetermined threshold, and, also, while stopped with its engine running. In one embodiment, the high mounted stop light, when pulsed, glows at a color different from the illumination of the tail lights and stop lights when energized.

Abstract: A mobile display system comprises one or more movable billboard displays, equipped with externally viewable display panels and a controller. The display is moved from location zone to location zone by a transporter which may comprise a person or a vehicle. The controller ascertains the display location and drives the display to generate a publicly viewable message selected for viewing within such location zone. The message is displayed pursuant to a schedule which includes date, time of day and display duration while the display is within the zone or until the display is located in another zone which is not included within the message schedule. A tiered system control network includes a plurality of fixed stations which transmit message content and scheduling data to the controller and which generate billing and other accounting records. An advertiser may communicate with the network for creating and changing message content and scheduling data.

Abstract: A vehicle signaling system is provided including a vehicle with at least one light assembly including an array of lights. Also included is a plurality of inputs situated within the vehicle for generating an activation signal. Control circuitry is connected between the light assembly of the vehicle and the inputs. In use, the control circuitry is adapted to actuate the lights of the light assembly in a unique manner in response to the receipt of activation signals from each combination of the inputs.

Abstract: A vehicle signaling display device to be mounted on an automotive vehicle, so that signaling lights of the device are visible for drivers of following vehicles, includes orange or amber, red and green lights and includes a system specifically designed to count speed sensor pulses for measuring speed of any vehicle of any make and model on which the device is installed, for controlling the signaling lights in accordance with the speed of the vehicle and regardless of operation and position of accelerator pedal of the vehicle, in order to perform a set of standardized operations of the signaling lights for dynamically preventing traffic crashes.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for increasing the effectiveness of emergency signalling devices on vehicles. An emergency signalling device such as a flashing light is repeatedly operated at a frequency rate that corresponds to the speed of the vehicle. A minimum repetition rate is employed when the vehicle is slow or stopped so that the signal is not similarly halted, and a maximum rate is employed above a certain speed so that the repetition rate is not at too high of a frequency to be perceived.

Abstract: A multifunctional safety warning device for a vehicle includes a mediate light bar zone having a first side and a second side; a left indicating light mounted on the first side of the mediate light bar zone and being adapted to light independently; and a right indicating light mounted on the second side of the mediate light bar zone and being adapted to light independently. In such a manner, the mediate light bar zone, the left indicating light, and the right indicating light are connected to and controlled by a control unit, whereby, the control unit is used to alternatively operate the mediate light bar zone, the left indicating light, and the right indicating light of the safety warning device, and to operate a set of breakdown light of the vehicle so that at least one set of light is used indicate a steering direction of the vehicle.

Abstract: A one or two-piece safety helmet to be used while biking, skating, rollerblading or while performing other recreational activities using non-motorized vehicles, wherein in one configuration, the helmet is comprised of an inner and outer shell secured together via VELCRO.TM. or snaps, wherein both shells meet appropriate helmet safety standards. The helmet features a chin-strap, directional signals, a break light, an AM/FM radio, and two-way communication capabilities. The directional signals and break light allows a user to warn others when the user is turning or slowing down. Pre-recorded warning messages in the form of a voice message or a warning signal may be stored on a chip embedded within a electronics module situated in the rear of the outer shell of the helmet. The messages or warning signals alert the user when the chin-strap is not secured or the helmet is not being properly used.

Abstract: A system generates a signal to activate the brake lights of a motor vehicle. An accelerator pedal position change parameter is determined, which represents the variation over time of the accelerator pedal that can be actuated by the driver. This accelerator pedal position change parameter is compared with at least one predefinable threshold value. The signal for activating the brake lights is then generated as a function of this comparison. The threshold value is predefined as a function of at least one stability/safety parameter, which represents the instantaneous driving stability of the vehicle and/or the instantaneous driving safety of the vehicle. The method and the device provide an improved means to warn the trailing vehicles of an impending hazard (for example, an obstacle, skidding of the vehicle or a slippery road surface) via the brake lights in a timely and reliable manner.

Abstract: A display system for motor vehicles provides an array of lamps at the rear of a subject vehicle to provide an indication of the state of motion of the subject vehicle to the driver of a following vehicle. In a first mode of operation, the display indicates a level of warning dependent upon the rate of deceleration of the subject vehicle, the level of warning being determined by deceleration thresholds which are variable in dependence upon the measured speed of the subject vehicle. In a second mode of operation, the lamps provide an indication of the subject vehicle being stationary or near stationary as determined by comparing the measured speed with a threshold speed. An animate display is created by illuminating the lamps and sequentially deactuating selected pairs of lamps to create a pattern cyclically moving semetrically outwardly from the centre of the row. The display is discontinued when the speed of the subject vehicle exceeds a second threshold defined independently of the first threshold speed.

Abstract: A vehicle safety device designed to increase highway safety by alerting vehicle operators of initial braking of highway traffic with noticeable rapid blinks of the Center High Mounted Stop Lamp (CHMSL). This selective approach in alerting highway traffic of unexpected braking introduces a new realm of brake signaling. A recognizable and higher-plateau vehicular safety signal and it uses an existing brake lamp. Adding to the value of this new vehicle safety device is its unique design. The Automatic Brakes Initiated Annunciator is engineered to be a simple, reliable, and a practical device. It does not include or need; special power supplies or voltage regulators, adjustments, calibration, oscillators or counters, integrated circuits, complicated wiring installation, special installation space, ambient temperature considerations, vibration consideration, complex circuitry, sophisticated or expensive electronic components, and changes in vehicle operation or brake usage.

Abstract: This hybrid powered automobile has generators driven by the engine and a battery, and also includes a controller that selects the motive power in compliance with regulations on noise and NOx. The controller of the hybrid powered automobile selects whether the vehicle is to be driven by the electricity of the generators driven by the engine or by the electricity of the battery. When the battery charge level is lower than a specified level, the engine is operated in a range where the engine produces a minimum amount of NOx and the mileage does not deteriorate. When the vehicle is traveling in areas where release of exhaust emissions is permitted, the engine is operated to generate electricity to recharge the battery. The control of switching the motive power between the engine and the battery is performed by receiving a signal transmitted from a traffic light equipment elected on the road.

Abstract: An inventive rear lamp module for a vehicle incorporates a trailer tow connector to provide electrical signals to a trailer that is to be pulled by the vehicle. Preferably, two separate connectors are formed on a rear face of an electric lamp module. A first connector receives input signals from the vehicle and a second connector is an optional connector to be connected to a trailer connector when the trailer is connected to a vehicle. The present invention eliminates the need of a separate wire harness for the trailer connector, and thus reduces cost. In addition, by positioning the trailer tow connector within a plastic part mounted in a secure position in the vehicle, the trailer tow connector is easily maintained.

Abstract: The present invention provides a light control system for controlling the operating lights of an emergency vehicle. The light control system (or LCS) will comprise a digital logic controller with a plurality of input pins which are adapted for connection with the operating light switches of the vehicle. The digital logic controller also has a plurality of output pins adapted for connection with the operating lights of the vehicle and a plurality of mode selection switches for selecting a plurality of different modes for controlling the operating lights. In a preferred embodiment, the digital logic controller is a microprocessor.

Abstract: A lamp driving circuit of a vehicle turn/hazard system blinks a turn hazard lamp 10 by passing a current through a relay contact C of a relay RY intermittently. The relay contact of the relay RY is turned on earlier than a semiconductor switch 20 which is provided between a relay and a battery is, and the former is turned off later than the latter is. During the period while both the relay contact and semiconductor switch are ON, the turn/hazard lamp is illuminated. A first and a second pulse signal are generated to turn on/off the relay contact C and semiconductor device, respectively. The relationship therebetween is changed at regular or random intervals. In this configuration, the lamp driving circuit for a turn hazard system can minimize exhaustion of the relay contact and improve the endurance thereof.

Abstract: An auxiliary safety warning lamp system for a vehicle comprising a lamp unit, a remote control unit including a receiver attached to the lamp unit, and an emitter controlled by an operator and emitting signals to the receiver for controlling operation of the lamp unit, a control unit connected between the receiver and the lamp unit for identifying the signals emitted from the emitter to the receiver so as to control functions of the lamp unit, and a switch-type power adjustable supply unit connected to the control unit for supplying power to the lamp unit.

Abstract: A mobile display system comprises one or more vehicles, e.g. taxis, buses, tractor-trailers, etc., equipped with externally viewable display panels and an on-board controller. The controller determines the vehicle location and drives the display to generate a publicly viewable message selected for viewing within such location. The message is displayed pursuant to a schedule which includes date, time of day and display duration while the vehicle is within the zone or until the vehicle is located in another zone which is not included within the message schedule. A tiered system control network includes a plurality of fixed stations which transmit message content and scheduling data to the controller and which generate billing and other accounting records.

Abstract: An automotive safety system that will automatically activate hazard warning lights under circumstances of hard braking or sudden stoppage. The system incorporates an accelerometer which measures the longitudinal acceleration of the vehicle and a microcontroller which processes the acceleration readings. When a series of deceleration values in excess of a predetermined threshold is detected, the microcontroller transmits an activation signal and the hazard warning lights are activated to warn other motorists. The hazard lights, when activated, remain active until they are either manually reset by the vehicle operator or automatically reset by the microcontroller when it detects a series of positive acceleration values consistent with normal vehicle operation. The hazard warning lights of this system are activated independently of the brake lights such that, in an accident situation, the hazard lights will activate even if the vehicle operator has not pressed the brake pedal.

Abstract: An improved center high-mounted stoplight apparatus for a motor vehicle or other transportation apparatus. The apparatus includes a pulsating or flashing mode of operation used to indicate rapid deceleration of the vehicle. This pulsating or flashing mode is in addition to the regular continuous mode of operation used for normal braking and deceleration and is arranged to be of a maximal human visibility and attention-capturing operating cycle. A plurality of different signaling arrangements to a following vehicle including an incandescent lamp, a gas tube lamp, light-emitting diode devices and non light-based signaling are also contemplated. Additionally included is a maximal distance spanning attention-capturing operating mode entered into in response to, for example, a collision-related deceleration event and maintained over a prolonged operating time or until manually disabled.