External Signal Light System Patents (Class 340/468)
  • Patent number: 10173592
    Abstract: A safe opening system is mounted on an automobile which contains a body, at least one automobile door, and the driving device. The body includes at least one peripheral frame, each of which has a locker with a fixing groove. Each automobile door includes a front fringe and a rear fringe which has an accommodation chamber, wherein the decoration plate has a door bar and an orifice. The driving device includes an actuation sheet and a spring, wherein the actuation sheet has a hook, a connection stem perpendicular to the actuation sheet, and a rotary shaft. The spring is fitted on the rotary shaft, and the driving device is accommodated in the accommodation chamber. The connection stem is inserted into each automobile door and a distal end of the connection stem is inserted through and partially extends out of the orifice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2019
    Inventor: Ming-Long Shieh
  • Patent number: 10121375
    Abstract: A method for controlling a parking lot sensor, which includes a sensor for scanning a predetermined measuring area, includes steps of determining an expected fluctuation of vehicles in the measuring area, of determining a scanning frequency on the basis of the expected fluctuation and of controlling, as a function of the scanning frequency, the sensor respectively for carrying out a scan.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Assignee: ROBERT BOSCH GMBH
    Inventors: Nils Larcher, Martin Werner, Wolf-Bastian Poettner
  • Patent number: 10118538
    Abstract: A vehicle roof rack includes a first side-rail and a second side-rail. Each of the rails define a first groove and a second groove. The second is defined below the first groove. A plurality of lights are positioned within the second groove. A cross-rail extends between the first and second side rails and is positioned within the first grooves.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 7, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2018
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Stuart C. Salter, Paul Kenneth Dellock, Mehran Niksimaee, Annette Lynn Huebner
  • Patent number: 10112540
    Abstract: A display mirror assembly having a mount operably coupled to a vehicle interior. The mount includes one of a ball and a socket extending forwardly therefrom. An engagement plate is pivotally coupled with the mount via the other of a ball and a socket extending rearwardly from the engagement plate. The engagement plate includes a first support member and a second support member pivotally coupled to the first support member. A carrier plate is operably coupled with the engagement plate. The carrier plate supports a rear housing on a rear portion thereof. A glass element is operably coupled with the carrier plate. A display module is configured to be turned to an on state and an off state. An actuator device is disposed on a bottom surface of the housing and is operably coupled with the glass element. The actuator device is adjustable to tilt the glass element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2016
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2018
    Assignee: GENTEX CORPORATION
    Inventors: Danny L. Minikey, Jr., Richard T. Fish, Jr., Bradley R. Hamlin, Michael F. Lisowski, Jason D. Hallack
  • Patent number: 9994164
    Abstract: A display system that temporarily but securely displays a variety of large-sized interchangeable display objects atop vehicle rooftops for eye-catching public broadcast. The display system comprises a display object and a common, reusable base. The display object combines an art ornament with a display object connection assembly that matingly connects to a base connection assembly without the use of tools. The base is releasably secured to vehicle rooftops using an array of magnets. Intended for personal use, the display system is designed to be more convenient and aesthetic than commercial displays allowing users to display a variety of interchangeable display objects with associated art ornaments, communicating different messages based on changes in the seasons, their activities and interests, their mood, or other factors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 3, 2016
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2018
    Inventors: Mark Murphy, Peter Penn
  • Patent number: 9937852
    Abstract: A method and apparatus for a curved lighting fixture that is symmetric about a longitudinal axis of the curved lighting fixture. The curved lighting fixture includes end caps that are parallel to the longitudinal axis. Each end cap includes two mounting studs that secure the lighting fixture to mounting brackets, where a first mounting stud provides an axis of rotation for the lighting fixture and a second mounting stud facilitates the rotation. The two mounting studs do not enter into an interior portion of the lighting fixture so as to facilitate externally serviceable hardware. A bushing provides an external retention mechanism to retain the two mounting studs within each end cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 10, 2018
    Assignee: JST Performance, LLC
    Inventors: Stephen P. Adams, Pete D. Sibitzky
  • Patent number: 9864916
    Abstract: In a method for triggering a driver assistance function of a subject vehicle, image data of surroundings in front of the vehicle is generated by a camera and supplied to an analyzing unit. A driver assistance function is triggered upon detection of a brake light of an other vehicle in the image data. A geometric region of the detected other vehicle is determined as exhibiting the highest pixel brightness values and the color red. The geometric region is detected as a raised brake light of the other vehicle if the geometric region is positioned essentially in the middle of the horizontal structure of the other vehicle, or at least a predetermined height above the roadway, or at least a predetermined distance below a rear window of the other vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2014
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2018
    Assignee: Continental Automotive GmbH
    Inventors: Adrian Botusescu, Radu Ciucur, Nicolae Pahontu, Sabin Catana, Valentin Vintila
  • Patent number: 9853693
    Abstract: In an example of a method for locating a Near Field Communication (NFC) antenna, an indication of an imminent use of the NFC antenna is received. In response to receiving the indication, a light is caused to illuminate a location of the NFC antenna, a logo of the NFC antenna, or an area within proximity of the location of the NFC antenna in a pattern.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: December 26, 2017
    Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Dustin H. Smith, John Sergakis, Wen Gu
  • Patent number: 9838602
    Abstract: A method for controlling a camera mode is executed at a camera including a controller, a sensor array, an IR filter, and a lens assembly. The camera is operated in a night mode. While in the night mode the IR filter is not interposed between the lens assembly and the sensor array, the camera receives at the sensor array ambient light that is not filtered by the IR filter, determines whether the received ambient light is due to a light source other than an IR light source, and detects a light level of the received ambient light. The camera switches the operation of the camera from the night mode to a day mode when it is determined the received ambient light is due to a light source other than an IR light source and that the light level of the received ambient light exceeds a first threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2017
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2017
    Assignee: GOOGLE INC.
    Inventors: Bill Duran, Adrian Mircea Proca
  • Patent number: 9827905
    Abstract: Various embodiments of the invention provide methods, systems, and computer program products for monitoring a landscape surrounding an object such as a vehicle and signaling neighboring objects, such as other vehicles or pedestrians, as to whether it is safe or not to move around the object. Specifically, a portion of landscape surrounding an object is monitored using a network of object recognition devices that are capable of recognizing objects against the portion of landscape. A first object is detected by one of the devices and a determination is made as to whether the first object is at a distance to allow a second object to move safely around the object and avoid the first object. Upon determining the first object is not at such a distance, a message is displayed that can be viewed by the second object conveying to the second object not to move around the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 18, 2015
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2017
    Inventor: Tiffany Nicole Jones
  • Patent number: 9809157
    Abstract: A system is disclosed to communicate in vehicular traffic an intention of a driver of a vehicle to execute a parallel parking maneuver. The system includes a display generating a signal to indicate to other drivers the intention to execute the parallel parking maneuver to either a left side of the vehicle or a right side of the vehicle. The signal is distinct from and in addition to a turn signal for the vehicle indicating an intended left turn or right turn. Embodiments of the disclosed system include an illuminated word parallel, arrows pointing both right and left and forward and backward, a determination to a particular open space based upon an orientation of a head of the driver, and a laser emitter providing a second indication to onlookers to a parking space.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: November 7, 2017
    Inventors: Frazier Cunningham, III, Cindita D. Cunningham
  • Patent number: 9791614
    Abstract: Problem: To provide a vehicle lamp fitting in which regularity of the strength or weakness of the emitted light is maintained and deterioration of appearance is suppressed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2017
    Assignee: Ichikoh Industries, Ltd.
    Inventors: Koji Nishihata, Genta Matsumura, Hideyuki Hayashi
  • Patent number: 9784424
    Abstract: An automotive lamp includes: a first lamp unit that has a first projection lens whose vertical length is longer than the horizontal length thereof when viewed from the front of the lamp and that is used for forming a low beam light distribution pattern; and a second lamp unit that has a second projection lens whose horizontal length is longer than the vertical length thereof when viewed from the front of the lamp and that is used for forming a low beam light distribution pattern. The first lamp unit and the second lamp unit are arranged such that one end of the first projection lens and one end of the second projection lens are adjacent to each other.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 17, 2014
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignees: KOITO MANUFACTURING CO., LTD., TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kazuhisa Sakashita, Yuji Noritake
  • Patent number: 9785042
    Abstract: A vehicular lighting apparatus is provided with: a detector configured to detect a movable body around a self-vehicle; a deteminator configured to determine whether or not the movable body is an object whose attention is to be called; and a projector configured to project predetermined visual information by using illumination light in a predetermined range around the object if it is determined by the determinator that the movable body is the object. The predetermined visual information includes first information to be presented to a driver of the self-vehicle and second information to be presented to the object. The predetermined visual information is visualized as the first information by the driver of the self-vehicle and is visualized as the second information by the object, depending on a viewpoint difference between the driver of the self-vehicle and the object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 13, 2017
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2017
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kazuyuki Fujita, Shinya Kawamata, Shinichi Nagata, Minami Sato
  • Patent number: 9771020
    Abstract: An emergency turn signal system for vehicles having brake lights with a rear central brake light, and having left and right turn signals, and having a hazard flasher light control operable to cut out the turn signal control, and cause the turn signal lights to flash on and off, and having left and right rear emergency turn signals and an emergency turn signal switch, connected to a power source independently of said hazard flasher, and having right and left wiring connected to the emergency turn signal switch; right and left turn signal light modules along side the rear central brake light having respective right and left bulbs connected to respective right and left wiring from the emergency turn signal switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 2016
    Date of Patent: September 26, 2017
    Inventor: Jian Jiang Zhao
  • Patent number: 9769369
    Abstract: An imaging apparatus that communicate with an external apparatus through a network includes an imaging optical system; an imaging unit that captures an image of an object by the imaging optical system; an optical filter; an inserting and removing unit that inserts and removes the optical filter into and from an optical path of the imaging optical system; a receiving unit that receives an adjustment command from the external apparatus through the network, the command including individual adjustment values respectively for insertion and removal of the optical filter into and form the optical path; an automatically determining unit that, based on one of the adjustment values, automatically determines the other adjustment value in the adjustment command; and a control unit that controls the inserting and removing unit based on the one adjustment value received by the receiving unit and the other adjustment value determined by the automatically determining unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2017
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Yutaka Suzuki, Kentaro Kogure
  • Patent number: 9712244
    Abstract: A two-way optical communication apparatus includes a transmit element, a receive element and a transceive processor. The transmit and receive elements are coupled to a light pipe, and configured to transmit a first optical signal and receive a second optical signal, respectively. The transceive processor is configured to direct the transmit element to suspend transmitting the first optical signal during reception periods, and direct the receive element to sample for the second optical signal during sampling intervals within the reception periods. Each reception period lasts for a respective duration of time, and occurs in the first optical signal at a respective duty cycle. The receive element is configured to sense an ambient light level of the surrounding environment during the reception periods, and the transceive processor is configured to adjust the durations of time and the duty cycles of the reception periods according to the sensed ambient light level.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2016
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2017
    Assignee: GOOGLE INC.
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Mathews, Jonathan S. Bruneau, Lee R. Taylor
  • Patent number: 9682647
    Abstract: A module forms a bodywork element for a motor vehicle and contributes to the exterior aesthetics of the vehicle. It is intended to fitted to a body of the vehicle. It includes interior lighting electrical means, intended to light the interior of a passenger compartment of the vehicle, and means for connecting the interior lighting means to an electrical power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2017
    Assignee: Valeo Vision
    Inventor: Vincent Godbillon
  • Patent number: 9679207
    Abstract: A traffic light detecting device includes an image capturing unit configured to capture an image of surroundings of a vehicle and a traffic light detecting unit configured to detect a traffic light from the image. The traffic light detecting unit extracts a synchronized pixel with a luminance which varies in synchronization with an alternating current cycle of electric power supplied to the traffic light, and sets a predetermined range including the synchronized pixel as a pixel group. The traffic light detecting unit, then, judges from the synchronized pixel whether or not the traffic light is present when the synchronized pixel is continuously extracted from the pixel group for a predetermined determination period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 10, 2014
    Date of Patent: June 13, 2017
    Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Takahiko Oki, Hidekazu Nishiuchi
  • Patent number: 9671081
    Abstract: According to the present disclosure, a first optical system includes a first light source and emits a first illumination light. A second optical system includes a second light source and emits a second illumination light. A controller controls turning-on/off of the first light source and the second light source. The first optical system and the second optical system are configured such that a first illumination standard is satisfied by the first illumination light and the second illumination light. The first optical system is configured such that a second illumination standard is satisfied by the first illumination light. The controller allows the turning-on of the first light source when the turning-on of the second light source is disabled, and prohibits the turning-on of the second light source when the turning-on of the first light source is disabled.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 30, 2015
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2017
    Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Yoshitake Mochizuki
  • Patent number: 9511799
    Abstract: A trailer backup assist system, according to one embodiment, includes a steering input device for inputting a desired backing path of a trailer. The trailer backup assist system also includes a first sensor that senses a hitch angle between a vehicle and the trailer. Further, the trailer backup assist system includes a second sensor that senses a proximity of an object in a perimeter field of at least one of the vehicle and the trailer. A controller of the trailer backup assist system generates an available set of backing paths for the trailer based on the proximity of the object and the hitch angle. The available set of backing paths does not include backing paths that cross a space occupied by the object or that cause a jackknife condition between the vehicle and the trailer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2016
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventor: Erick Michael Lavoie
  • Patent number: 9513133
    Abstract: A system for selective opening of a vehicle includes: a first communications module establishing, via a communications network, a communication link to a service provider of authorization data; a first identification routine for unambiguous identification of the service provider; a second communications module establishing a wireless communication network link to a control device for access arrangement of a vehicle; a second identification routine unambiguously identifying the system by the access arrangement; and a third communications module receiving update request information from the driver and an authorization data update routine. By the second communications module, the control device receives a profiled control signal that causes a selective opening of the vehicle via the control device if valid authorization data is available.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 2, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2016
    Assignee: Continental Automotive GmbH
    Inventor: Akos Semsey
  • Patent number: 9500336
    Abstract: A lamp for a vehicle may include a hologram reproducing apparatus reproducing a written image to an outside when light is input, a light source provided to one end side of the hologram reproducing apparatus, and a reflecting apparatus provided to another end side of the hologram reproducing apparatus and reflecting light of the light source to the hologram reproducing apparatus at a same incident angle as an incident angle when an image is written on the hologram reproducing apparatus.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2016
    Assignees: Hyundai Motor Company, SL Corporation
    Inventors: Jeong Gyu Yang, Sun Tae Kim
  • Patent number: 9487127
    Abstract: An illumination apparatus for a vehicle is disclosed. The illumination apparatus comprises a photoluminescent portion disposed on a step portion and a first light source. The first light source is configured to excite the photoluminescent portion in a back-lit configuration. The illumination apparatus further comprises a lighting controller in communication with the first light source. The lighting controller is configured to activate the first light source to illuminate the photoluminescent portion by exciting a photoluminescent material by emitting a first wavelength of light. In response to receiving the first wavelength, the photoluminescent material is configured to become excited to illuminate at least a portion of the step portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 2014
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2016
    Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Stuart C. Salter, Paul Kenneth Dellock, James J. Surman, Cornel Lewis Gardner
  • Patent number: 9458979
    Abstract: A lamp for a vehicle is provided and includes a signal lamp that displays a predetermined image of repetition on an exterior mirror of a vehicle. The lamp further includes a mirror housing into which a mirror is installed and a signal lamp disposed on one surface of the mirror housing. The signal lamp includes a reflection unit, a lens unit disposed at a predetermined distance apart from the reflection unit and having a half mirror installed on at least one surface thereof, and a first light source unit disposed between the reflection unit and the lens unit and is about the same distance apart from the reflection unit and the lens unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: October 4, 2016
    Assignee: SL Corporation
    Inventors: Do-Yoon Song, Yong-Hwan Kim
  • Patent number: 9428108
    Abstract: A vehicle environment monitoring system is disclosed which includes a people detection unit for detecting the presence of people in the environment of a vehicle and a danger signaler for generating danger signals of at least one first kind. A decision unit for deciding on the generation of a danger signal of the first kind when detecting a person by means of the people detection unit in dependence of the visibility of the person for the driver of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2016
    Assignee: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventors: Johannes Huth, Gerald Schmidt
  • Patent number: 9421902
    Abstract: A motor vehicle includes a plurality of lights serving to illuminate the area surrounding the vehicle to the side or rear, wherein one or more sensors are provided to detect the position of a person relative to the vehicle. The lights, of which several are installed in the region of a vehicle side or the vehicle rear and illuminate the different surrounding area regions, can be activated separately depending on the detected position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 20, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 23, 2016
    Assignee: AUDI AG
    Inventor: Stefan Kowatzki
  • Patent number: 9418553
    Abstract: A driver uses a mobile phone application to transmit a request to a central processor for information on available parking spaces, accommodating a specific size car, close to her present location or a future location. An image processor processes real time images from linked cameras overlooking parking spaces, comparing them with reference images of unoccupied parking spaces, vehicles including automobiles, bicycles and motorcycles, a no parking sign sandwich board and a traffic cone. The image processor sends the information on available parking spaces to the central processor. The central processor saves image processor information and information on available parking spaces, parking fee and advertising promotions from parking facilities on a database and transmits a response to the driver's request. The mobile phone application displays and audio broadcasts the response. The driver pays a fee and reserves an available parking space to exclude it from responses to other requests.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2016
    Inventor: Omid B. Nakhjavani
  • Patent number: 9413463
    Abstract: An two-way optical communication apparatus, including a transmit element, a receive element, and a transceive processor. The transmit element is coupled to a light pipe, and transmits a first signal. The receive element is coupled to the light pipe, and receives a second signal. The transceive processor directs the transmit element to pause and then resume transmitting the first signal during first intervals, and directs the receive element to sample for the second signal during one or more second intervals within each of the first intervals, where the each of the first intervals is less than a first value and the first intervals occur at a duty cycle no greater than a second value, and where the first and second values are controlled by the transceive processor such that a user perceives the first optical signal as having a constant state for a third interval.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 9, 2016
    Assignee: GOOGLE INC.
    Inventors: Jeffrey P. Mathews, Jonathan S. Bruneau, Lee R. Taylor
  • Patent number: 9404763
    Abstract: A departure/destination location extraction apparatus includes a travel history accumulation unit configured to store a travel history of a vehicle, including a plurality of parking positions of the vehicle; and a position extraction unit configured to extract, among the parking positions stored in the travel history accumulation unit, one or more pairs of the parking positions where a distance between the parking positions in each of the pairs of the parking positions is less than or equal to a predetermined first threshold, each of the pairs being treated as a set of candidate points, and to extract an area including the candidate points that would be connected as a whole if the parking positions in each of the sets were connected with each other, as at least one of a departure location and a destination location.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2015
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2016
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventor: Atsushi Inoue
  • Patent number: 9333908
    Abstract: A system is disclosed to communicate in vehicular traffic an intention of a driver of a vehicle to execute a parallel parking maneuver. The system includes a display generating a signal to indicate to other drivers the intention to execute the parallel parking maneuver to either a left side of the vehicle or a right side of the vehicle. The signal is distinct from and in addition to a turn signal for the vehicle indicating an intended left turn or right turn.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2014
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2016
    Inventors: Frazier Cunningham, III, Cindita Cunningham
  • Patent number: 9324218
    Abstract: A personal alarm light operates as a multi-purpose emergency tool having a power pack of batteries powering a white light beam, as well as a radially emanating red light ring. An audible alarm has a loud, typically high-pitched oscillating sound. A resonance chamber amplifies the sound, which emanates from apertures delivering sound radially away from the resonance chamber. Crowns on each end of the tool provide regions of reduced area and alternating relieved sections about the circumference thereof, in order to provide increased impact pressure from the points when used as hammers to break glass, or as strikers to cut through fabric or other sheet materials.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2016
    Assignee: Outback Flashlights, LLC
    Inventor: Wayne Stewart
  • Patent number: 9302617
    Abstract: Included is a lightweight portable sign which can be used in one aspect to protect stalled or broken down vehicles with passengers still on board, to prevent oncoming vehicles or traffic from colliding with the stalled vehicles. An infinite number of messages may be displayed by input to the display through the use of a keyboard, smart phone application, auditory input or a pre-set selection of messaged chosen by the user. The sign is computerized with onboard memory, processor and optionally, has sound and audio capabilities. An emergency communications system and method are also included. The method include providing software applications communications components of the sign of the invention which then transmits a signal to a communications center, which then can direct the communication to a hospital, police or roadside assistance entity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 5, 2016
    Assignee: Sylo Systems, LLC
    Inventor: Michael J. Simmons
  • Patent number: 9298066
    Abstract: A multi-functional support assembly is provided, including a fixed base, a locking element, a support element and a plurality of leg elements. The support element penetrates through the fixed base and can slide linearly inside the fixed base for position adjustment. The locking element is disposed at the fixed base. In a locked state, the locking element can fasten the position of the support element with respect to the fixed base. The plurality of leg elements is coupled to the circumference of the fixed base, with each leg element having a side wall on both sides. When folded, the side walls of two adjacent leg elements are aligned side-by-side closely so that the leg elements form a hollow tube easy to hold. When expanded, the leg elements are rotated outwards around the coupling to form the legs of the support assembly in a standing position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: March 29, 2016
    Inventor: Eagle Fan
  • Patent number: 9281814
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are an apparatus and a method for guiding a multi-function switch guide. The apparatus for guiding a multi-function switch includes: a sensor unit that is disposed on an operating lever of a multi-function switch of a vehicle to sense an approach of a user or an operation of the operating lever; a switch state determining unit that determines a current operation state of the multi-function switch, when the approach of the user or the operation of the operating lever is sensed by the sensor unit; an information detection unit that detects a lever operation method corresponding to the current operation state of the multi-function switch; and an output control unit that performs a control to display the detected lever operation method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 28, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2016
    Assignee: Hyundai Motor Company
    Inventor: Ki Chul Kim
  • Patent number: 9230327
    Abstract: An apparatus for deploying test images for a preset period within the field of view of a camera, and having; a panel supporting the test image, and moveable transmission connected with the panel and operable to deploy, and retrieve, the panel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 3, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2016
    Inventor: Ferrand D. E. Corley
  • Patent number: 9216688
    Abstract: Various embodiments are described herein for a system and method for blindzone obstacle detection for a host vehicle. The system comprises a sensor array configured to generate measurement data for a blindzone of the host vehicle; a blindzone object detector having at least two detectors that are coupled to the sensor array to process the measurement data and generate outputs which are then combined to form a final detection value that is used to detect an object in the blindzone of the host vehicle. An indicator can also be coupled to the blindzone object detector to generate an indication of object detection in the blindzone.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 2013
    Date of Patent: December 22, 2015
    Inventors: Adil Ansari, Joseph E. Harter, Jr.
  • Patent number: 9165127
    Abstract: A working machine is provided with a control device that can make wireless communication with a mobile terminal storing a mobile-use ID code and stores a working machine-use ID code, wherein the control device is provided with: ID code checking means adapted to check the mobile-use ID code obtained by ID code obtaining means and the working machine-use ID code with each other; data communication means adapted, in the case where as a result of the checking by the checking means, matching between the ID codes is established, to allow data communication between the mobile terminal and the control device, and in the case where the matching is not established, not to allow the data communication; and ID code registration means adapted to register the working machine-use ID code in the mobile terminal as the mobile-use ID code.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 20, 2015
    Assignee: KUBOTA CORPORATION
    Inventors: Keisuke Miura, Susumu Umemoto, Hiroyuki Araki, Yasuhisa Uoya
  • Patent number: 9108561
    Abstract: A vehicle is equipped with a charge plug. The vehicle includes a vehicular battery charged through the charge plug. A charge control device for the vehicle includes a vehicle information acquisition unit, an exit determination unit, and an alarming operation unit. The vehicle information acquisition unit acquires vehicle information, which represents a state of the vehicle. The exit determination unit determines, according to the vehicle information, whether an occupant of the vehicle has an exit intention to exit from the vehicle. The alarming operation unit implements an alarming operation to restrict the occupant from forgetting to mount the charge plug when the exit determination unit determines that the occupant has the exit intention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 3, 2014
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2015
    Assignee: DENSO CORPORATION
    Inventor: Toshihiro Nakamura
  • Publication number: 20150145668
    Abstract: A vehicle tire pressure indicator and tire illumination assembly is provided. The assembly includes a light source located on the body of a vehicle near the wheel well and oriented to direct light onto a wheel assembly having a tire. A tire pressure indicator detects air inflation pressure of the tire. The light source illuminates the wheel assembly with a desired color to indicate a tire pressure status based on the detected tire pressure. In addition, the light source may be illuminated to provide puddle lamp and area lighting and turn signal indication.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 22, 2013
    Publication date: May 28, 2015
    Applicant: Ford Global Technologies, LLC
    Inventors: Stuart C. Salter, Cornel Lewis Gardner, Ali Ammar
  • Patent number: 9041524
    Abstract: A technique for enabling scenario files and image files for supply to a scenario generating device to be created easily is provided. The scenario creating device creates a scenario file supplied to a scenario reproducing device capable of reproducing only image files of a predetermined format. The scenario creating device comprises: an input section including a pointing device; a display section; and a scenario creating section for creating the scenario file. The scenario creating section provides a display of an execution icon on the display screen for causing the scenario creating section to execute a process. When a file icon for a source file of a predetermined format including pagewise scenario information and image information is dragged and dropped on the execution icon by means of operation of the pointing device, a scenario file is created on the basis of the scenario information, and an image file of the predetermined format is generated on the basis of the image information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 18, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 26, 2015
    Assignee: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventors: Toru Karasawa, Shoichi Akaiwa, Miki Nagano
  • Publication number: 20150130606
    Abstract: A warning light for attachment to a vehicle comprising a thermally conductive longitudinally extending base, a plurality of light head mount assemblies, a plurality of LED warning light assemblies, and a plurality of electronic control circuits. Said base has a pair of generally parallel longitudinal edges and a pair of ribs projecting perpendicularly from said base. Said light head mount assemblies comprise a bracket and a light head retention shoe. Said bracket has a generally planar bracket first portion and a generally planar bracket second portion oriented perpendicular to said first portion. Said light head shoe has a sole configured to engage said bracket first portion, a rib engaging portion, and a brace extending angularly therebetween. Said LED assemblies are mounted on said bracket second portion. Said dome has a main body portion, sidewalls configured to engage said edges, and end walls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2015
    Publication date: May 14, 2015
    Inventors: William F. Grote, JR., Jon H. Lyons
  • Publication number: 20150127222
    Abstract: A system is disclosed to communicate in vehicular traffic an intention of a driver of a vehicle to execute a parallel parking maneuver. The system includes a display generating a signal to indicate to other drivers the intention to execute the parallel parking maneuver to either a left side of the vehicle or a right side of the vehicle. The signal is distinct from and in addition to a turn signal for the vehicle indicating an intended left turn or right turn.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2014
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventors: Frazier Cunningham, III, Cindita Cunningham
  • Publication number: 20150123780
    Abstract: An illumination device and methods of forming illumination devices having a limited number of white light light emitting diodes (LED's) or solid state lighting (SSL) devices and a color filtering lens or light manipulator disposed over the white light LED to manipulate at least one of a chromaticity, a color temperature value, and a color rendering index (CRI) value of light emitted beyond the illumination device to satisfy regulatory visibly and/or illumination requirements with a more efficiently operable illumination device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2014
    Publication date: May 7, 2015
    Inventors: Patrick Jeffery Condon, Mark Bryan Pruss
  • Patent number: 9013288
    Abstract: A mirror reflective element sub-assembly for an exterior rearview mirror assembly of a vehicle includes a mirror reflective element and a mirror back plate. The mirror back plate includes an indicator unit mounting portion and a mirror actuator attaching portion established at a first side by a plastic injection molding operation. A heater pad is disposed between the mirror reflective element and a second side of the mirror back plate. An indicator unit has a light source that is activatable to emit light and is mounted at the indicator unit mounting portion. Light emitted by the light source, when activated, transmits through an aperture of the mirror back plate and through a light transmitting portion of the heater pad and through a light-transmitting window of the mirror reflector and exits the mirror reflective element to be viewable by a driver of the vehicle equipped with the mirror assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2014
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith D. Foote, Niall R. Lynam
  • Patent number: 9013293
    Abstract: A first device is configured to emit light and synchronize both or either color and/or rate of blinking of a first light of the first device with a second light of a second device. The synchronizing enables observing an implied relationship and/or connection between the first device and the second device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 9, 2013
    Date of Patent: April 21, 2015
    Inventor: Miguel R. Pimentel
  • Patent number: 9007193
    Abstract: One embodiment induces a display system for use on the exterior of a vehicle having a display, a vehicle speed sensor, a trigger device, and a processor coupled to the speed sensor and the trigger device. The trigger device is configured to identify a trigger event. The processor is configured to implement one of three operational modes of the display system based on the speed and state of the vehicle: a first operational mode when no trigger event is identified, the vehicle is on, and the vehicle is at a first speed; a second operational mode when no trigger event is identified and the vehicle is at a second speed different than the first speed; and a third operational mode when the trigger event is identified. The processor is further configured to render content on the display based upon the operational mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 26, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 14, 2015
    Assignee: ReviverMX, Inc.
    Inventors: Neville Boston, Michael Jordan
  • Patent number: 8994524
    Abstract: An indication unit for vehicles is suggested, which comprises at least one LED and at least one electrical circuit in a housing. The indication unit is connected to a first control, which is arranged in the vehicle, and connected to an LED driver circuit. A second control circuit, which is arranged in or on the housing of the indication unit, operates the LED with pulse-width modulated signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 31, 2015
    Assignee: SMR Patents S.a.r.l.
    Inventors: Daniel Fritz, Soenke Goldschmidt
  • Patent number: 8979424
    Abstract: The invention relates to a self-propelled road-milling machine for doing work on surfacings on the ground, and in particular carriageways. The road-milling machine according to the invention is characterized by a signalling arrangement which has at least one control unit for the entry of at least two different states of operation by the driver of the road-milling machine and at least one visual indicator or display unit to indicate or display for the driver of the transporting vehicle the at least two states of operation which are preset with the control unit by the driver of the road-milling machine. The first state of operation may be a request for the transporting vehicle to be braked or stopped and the second state of operation may be a request for the transporting vehicle to be started or to continue travelling. In a preferred embodiment of the visual indicator or display unit, the request for braking or stopping is shown as a cross and the request for starting or continued travel as an arrow.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Wirtgen GmbH
    Inventors: Christian Berning, Armin Montermann, Cyrus Barimanl, Guenter Haehn, Angela Cutler
  • Patent number: 8981918
    Abstract: A warning system for a vehicle having an air suspension system can include an indicator, an event data recorder, and a controller. The controller can be configured to determine a load on a front axle and a rear axle when the vehicle is in a static condition and compare the determined load on the front and rear axles to a predetermined load threshold for each of the front and rear axles. A warning signal can be provided to the indicator indicative of at least one of the determined loads exceeding the corresponding predetermined load threshold upon the controller determining one of the determined loads exceeds the corresponding predetermined load threshold. Data indicative of at least one of the determined loads exceeding the corresponding predetermined threshold can be communicated to the event data recorder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 2, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 17, 2015
    Assignee: Chrysler Group LLC
    Inventor: Satish Panse