Hazard Warning Or Distress Signalling Patents (Class 340/471)
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Publication number: 20140043157Abstract: An automated vehicle crash warning system may include a lighting system configured to be attached to the outside of the vehicle; a vehicle crash detector configured to detect a crash of the vehicle; and a light controller configured to cause the lighting system to illuminate when a crash of the vehicle is detected by the vehicle crash detector.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 1, 2013Publication date: February 13, 2014Applicant: FORCELIGHTS, LLCInventor: Forcelights, LLC
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Patent number: 8635013Abstract: A cooperative event location system is provided having a first system in a first vehicle and a second system. The first system includes a first event detection component to detect an occurrence of an event, a first measurement component to determine a distance traveled from the event, a first processing component coupled to the event detection component and the measurement component to prepare an event message, and a first short-range communication component coupled to the processing component and configured to transmit the event message to the second system remote from the first system. The second system includes a second short-range communication component to receive the event message, a satellite navigation component to provide location information, and a processing component coupled to the second communication component and the satellite navigation component to determine in latitude and longitude coordinates a location of the event.Type: GrantFiled: May 20, 2009Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Assignee: C.R.F. Societa Consortile per AzioniInventors: Saverio Zuccotti, Mario Gambera
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Patent number: 8633834Abstract: An alarm apparatus includes a first camera facing a first direction of a road, a second camera facing a second direction of the road, a first output device facing the first direction of the road, a second output device facing the second direction of the road, a processor, and a storage unit including a detecting module and a controlling module. The detecting module stores a first instruction executed by the processor, thereby the processor receives the images captured by the first and the second cameras and determines what is the state of the road condition. The controlling module stores a second instruction executed by the processor, thereby the processor controls the first and the second output devices to send out appropriate alarming signals.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2010Date of Patent: January 21, 2014Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hou-Hsien Lee, Chang-Jung Lee, Chih-Ping Lo
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Patent number: 8629766Abstract: The present invention relates to an indicating display device which can be simply carried or worn. The indicating display device of the present invention comprises: a first display unit; a first transceiving unit for transceiving signals; a first sensor for sensing a motion; a first control unit for controlling the first transceiving unit, and controlling the first display unit in accordance with the signal received at the first transceiving unit or information sensed by the first sensor, such that the first display unit displays various states; a second display unit; a second transceiving unit for transceiving signals; a mode selection unit for selecting a mode; and a second control unit for controlling the second display unit and the second transceiving unit in the mode selected by the mode selection unit.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 2010Date of Patent: January 14, 2014Inventor: Myung Su Lee
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Patent number: 8604922Abstract: A motor vehicle taillight comprising a frame configured to be removably mounted to a vehicle, a housing coupled to the frame, a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) positioned along the frame, and a programmable electronic system configured to received an input signal and to selectively provide power to the at least one sets of LED arrays based on a program selected by a user and received input signal. The programmable electronic system is also configured to be selectively placed into a program mode upon activation of a switch, and when in the program mode, to select one of the plurality of programs based on at least one of a turn signal or brake signal of the motor vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 2010Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Inventor: Glen Harris
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Patent number: 8604940Abstract: A vehicle communication system including a communications link and optionally a vehicle position indicator provided at a medical facility. A visual indicator is provided that is temporarily attachable to or usable in a non-official passenger vehicle to alert other road users that a vehicle is traveling in an emergency situation. A communications link and optionally a vehicle position locator are also temporarily attachable to or usable in a non-official passenger vehicle to communicate with the medical facility to alert the medical facility that the vehicle is traveling to the medical facility in an emergency situation. The visual indicator may be a flashing light, or a lighted warning message or symbol, and may be a one-time use light or may be operable only after receipt of an activation code from the medical facility.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2010Date of Patent: December 10, 2013Inventor: Mark Tremonti
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Publication number: 20130300556Abstract: A visual warning device has both a warning function to provide various colored flashing lights and a lighting function to adjustably project the lighting in preferable direction, which at least comprises a lighting device comprising an interior spotlight fixedly placed in the inside of the visual warning device and a beacon-like waterproof cover for mostly shielding the interior spotlight by outside exposure securely fastened onto the visual warning device, so that the interior spotlight has no required for an additional waterproof means pivotally mounted thereon as before; in particular, the interior spotlight further has both a vertical drive means and a horizontal drive means designed by uncovered structure, due to both the vertical drive means and the horizontal drive means unnecessarily concealed or placed in the inside of the interior spotlight as before, the interior spotlight has much simpler structure than before and more saving cost.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 14, 2012Publication date: November 14, 2013Inventor: Mao-Shen WANG
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Patent number: 8581698Abstract: A method, apparatus and computer program product are provided to permit location discovery, including location discovery in indoor settings. The method may identify a wireless signature present at a geographical location and determine whether the wireless signature corresponds to a previously observed wireless signature associated with the predefined geographical location. In instances in which the wireless signature fails to correspond to a previously observed wireless signature, the method may also receive an identification of a geographical location and associate, such as by means of a processor, the wireless signature with the identification of the geographical location. A corresponding computer program product and apparatus are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2008Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignees: Nokia Corporation, Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyInventors: Jonathan Ledlie, Jamey Hicks, Seth J. Teller, Dorothy W. Curtis, Jonathan Battat, Benjamin Charrow
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Patent number: 8581719Abstract: An exemplary sunroof for mounting in a vehicle roof is provided. The sunroof includes a panel and a warning apparatus. The sunroof includes a first bottom surface for facing toward an inside of the vehicle. The warning apparatus includes a PCB attached to the panel, and a warning unit mounted on the first bottom surface and electrically connected to the PCB. The warning unit is configured to send an emergency alert signal when the panel is raised up to be substantially perpendicular to the vehicle roof. A vehicle includes the sunroof is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2010Date of Patent: November 12, 2013Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Yuan-Lung Kuo, Hou-Yao Lin
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Patent number: 8552852Abstract: A safety light system comprising a trailer hitch mounted configuration. The safety light system includes a safety light assembly receptacle carried by a trailer hitch mounting member. The safety light assembly receptacle includes a light assembly receiving cavity for receiving and temporarily retaining a removable light assembly. The removable light assembly includes elements to provide a user controlled continuous red light, a flashing red light, and a continuous white light. The flashing red light provides a roadside flare configuration. The continuous white light provides a flashlight configuration. The continuous red light in conjunction with the flashing red light configuration provides a driving light configuration. The removable light assembly can include a securing mechanism for attaching the removable light assembly to an object to warn others of the extended object and/or support legs enabling operation as a roadside flare, spotlight, and the like.Type: GrantFiled: August 7, 2012Date of Patent: October 8, 2013Inventors: Allen D Hertz, Eric L Hertz
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Patent number: 8547219Abstract: An automotive brake light system producing a graduated display according to the level of vehicle deceleration as sensed by an onboard piezoelectric accelerometer. Taillight assemblies are divided into segments which are illuminated in sequence to produce a graduated display. The vehicle anti-lock brake system may be connected into the system to provide a special lighting effect such as blinking the taillights during a panic stop condition.Type: GrantFiled: June 11, 2010Date of Patent: October 1, 2013Inventor: Anthony J. Kisiel
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Patent number: 8536997Abstract: An apparatus is provided for operating a lighting system of the type including one or more lighting devices disposed on an off-highway vehicle. The apparatus includes: one or more input devices, operable to detect an operating condition of the off-highway vehicle and to generate a signal thereof; and a lighting controller operatively coupled to the input devices and to the lighting devices. The lighting controller is programmed to selectively power the lighting devices from an electrical power source of the off-highway vehicle based on predetermined responses to the signals from the input devices.Type: GrantFiled: August 12, 2010Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventor: David Joseph De Sanzo
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Patent number: 8536994Abstract: A collision detection unit mounts to a host vehicle. The collision detection unit includes a housing and a stop lamp associated with the housing and visible from outside the housing. A warning lamp is associated with the housing and is visible from outside the housing. A sensor is associated with the housing and is configured to detect an object.Type: GrantFiled: June 10, 2009Date of Patent: September 17, 2013Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventor: Hiedki Hada
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Patent number: 8525659Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: October 13, 2010Date of Patent: September 3, 2013Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hou-Yao Lin, Sheng-Jung Yu
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Patent number: 8482398Abstract: An electronic control circuit controls a vehicle's lamp to selectively operate as a turning signal, emergency signal, or vehicle running lamp. Notably, the circuit permits the lamp to operate as an emergency signal lamp even when the vehicle is off. The circuit includes a supply circuit, a control circuit, and a disrupt circuit. The supply circuit supplies voltage to the lamp if either or both of a vehicle running signal and a flash signal have a first input value. Meanwhile, the control circuit generates a control signal having a first control value if the vehicle running signal and the flash signal have different values, and a second control value if the signals have the same value. The disrupt circuit then connects the lamp to ground if the control signal has the first control value, but disrupts that connection if the control signal has the second control value.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 2010Date of Patent: July 9, 2013Assignee: Custom Dynamics LLCInventors: Dave Pribula, Evan J. Calarco, Vincent Forte, Frank Santostefano
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Patent number: 8482432Abstract: The portable traffic barrier with illuminated message display includes at least one lightweight panel having a rigid frame and a matrix of separate illumination units therein. The illumination units are flexibly secured to one another within the panel by links extending between adjacent units. Each illumination unit includes two mutually opposed faces, either or both faces providing illumination from a plurality of small lighting elements (e.g., LEDs) therein. Some of the units may be non-illuminated, if desired. The panel includes an electrical power supply capable of providing power to the illumination units from a solar panel, a portable electrical supply, or from the local power grid, if available. In at least one embodiment, the panel may be folded in accordion fashion for more compact storage when not deployed. A plurality of such panels may be interconnected mechanically and electrically to provide a comprehensive traffic message, if desired.Type: GrantFiled: August 15, 2012Date of Patent: July 9, 2013Inventor: Hussain Y. A. M. Mothaffar
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Patent number: 8477048Abstract: According to the invention, the device (1) comprises means (3) for detecting, during an altitude capture maneuver, the emission of a first type alarm by the anti-collision system (2) and means (4) for controlling the vertical speed of said airplane (AC), after the emission of such an alarm, until the triggering of the capture phase.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2011Date of Patent: July 2, 2013Assignee: Airbus Operations (SAS)Inventors: Paule Botargues, Xavier Dal Santo, Olivier Sapin, Vincent Bompart
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Publication number: 20130154820Abstract: A wireless interface module is used with at least one of a light bar, a control head, and/or a siren so that a mobile device can wirelessly control the light bar and/or siren via a user interface.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2012Publication date: June 20, 2013Applicant: Code 3, Inc.Inventor: Code 3, Inc.
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Publication number: 20130154821Abstract: A wireless interface module is used with at least one of a light bar, a control head, and/or a siren so that a mobile device can wirelessly control the light bar and/or siren via a user interface.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 30, 2012Publication date: June 20, 2013Applicant: Code 3, Inc.Inventor: Code 3, Inc.
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Patent number: 8446295Abstract: According to the invention, the device (1) comprises means (4) for adapting the altitude capture maneuver, means (5) for first detecting the emission of a first type alarm, means (6) for determining a first alarm threshold and means (7) for establishing an activation height threshold from said first alarm threshold and airplane vertical speed at the time of the alarm emission, so that, when the height separating said aircraft (AC) from the altitude set level is strictly higher than said height threshold at the time of the alarm emission, said adaptation means (4) are disabled.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2011Date of Patent: May 21, 2013Assignee: Airbus Operations (SAS)Inventors: Paule Botargues, Xavier Dal Santo, Olivier Sapin, Vincent Bompart
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Patent number: 8425098Abstract: A light bar for use on firefighting or other emergency vehicles includes an elongate base that provides a versatile mounting platform for primary visual and audible warning devices as well as providing a mounting platform for other types of equipment such as secondary visual and audible devices, optical devices, cameras, weather monitoring equipment, GPS devices, preemption devices, running lights and other devices that have been traditionally mounted on a firefighting or emergency vehicle roof and/or other exterior surface area of the emergency vehicle. The light bar is versatile in both allowing many different types of equipment to be selectively mounted and adjustably positioned on the base, and on pairs of support plates that are attachable to the opposite ends of the base and provide support for different combinations of signal lights and other equipment.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2010Date of Patent: April 23, 2013Assignee: PowerArc, Inc.Inventor: W. Kenneth Menke, III
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Publication number: 20130088595Abstract: A safety system for a single design racing automobile having a rear mounted airfoil member with an adjustable aerodynamic wing member includes a horizontal light panel with a multiple sections along the rear edge of the wing member, and a control unit programmed to control the sections of the horizontal light panel to be illuminated in synchronization with operation of the automobile's rear brake lights, reverse gear drive lights, turn signal lights, as well as emergency flashing of the lights. The safety system also includes one or more rearward facing cameras mounted to the rear edge of the adjustable aerodynamic wing member.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2012Publication date: April 11, 2013Inventor: Richard S. Nauert
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Patent number: 8412390Abstract: An information presentation device includes: a directional information obtaining element for obtaining directional information based on a signal from an enhancement device for safety or comfort of a passenger of a vehicle; an information presentation controller for generating a driving signal based on the directional information; and a stimulation element including multiple vibrators for generating a traveling wave of vibration in an in-vehicle element. A directionality of the traveling wave corresponds to the directional information. The stimulation element transmits the traveling wave to the passenger so that the passenger perceives the directionality of the traveling wave.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2010Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignees: DENSO CORPORATION, Nippon Soken, Inc.Inventors: Norio Sanma, Keiji Shigeoka, Sei Iguchi
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Patent number: 8412421Abstract: A method for managing haul routes in work environments comprises receiving performance criteria associated with a haul route and establishing a target total effective grade for at least one machine associated with the haul route based on the performance criteria. The method also includes collecting performance data associated with the at least one machine. A drive axle torque of the at least one machine is determined and an actual total effective grade associated with the at least one machine is estimated. The at least one machine is identified as an underperforming machine if the actual total effective grade for the at least one machine exceeds the target total effective grade. An average total effective grade for the at least one machine is determined as a function of the actual total effective grade. A haul route deficiency is identified if the average total effective grade exceeds a threshold level.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 2011Date of Patent: April 2, 2013Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Jonny Greiner, Yang Liu, Bhavin Vyas
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Patent number: 8405498Abstract: An automated vehicle crash warning system may include a lighting system configured to be attached to the outside of the vehicle; a vehicle crash detector configured to detect a crash of the vehicle; and a light controller configured to cause the lighting system to illuminate when a crash of the vehicle is detected by the vehicle crash detector.Type: GrantFiled: January 30, 2012Date of Patent: March 26, 2013Assignee: Forcelights, LLCInventors: Sunny P. Smith, Gene Y. Fridman
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Patent number: 8393750Abstract: The extendable strobe light device (1) comprises a telescoping light mount (10) bearing a strobe light (11). By manual operation or by power to an antenna drive motor (23) the telescoping light mount (10) is extended or retracted. An insulated electrical conductor (28) provides power to the strobe light (11). The insulated electrical conductor (28) is wound on a negator reel (46). A negator spring reel assembly (32) contains a negator spring (400) retracts the insulated electrical conductor (28) when the telescoping light mount (10) is retracted. An electrical brush assembly (43) comprises a brush assembly insulated housing (52) composed of a rigid material including metals and plastics. The brush assembly insulated housing (52) is affixed to the case by screws or bolts (34).Type: GrantFiled: September 3, 2009Date of Patent: March 12, 2013Inventor: Parley A. Clement
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Patent number: 8390475Abstract: A method comprising creating configured display information; detecting if a display is moving; presenting, via the display, the configured display information if the display is detected to be stationary; identifying, if the display is detected to be moving, whether the configured display information includes moving image display information; presenting, via the display, the configured display information if the display is detected to be moving, and the configured display information does not include moving image display information; identifying, if the display is detected to be moving, the configured display information includes moving image display information, whether the moving image display information includes emergency information or traffic information; presenting, via the display, the configured display information, excluding the moving image display information, if the moving image display information does not include emergency information or traffic information; and presenting, via the display, theType: GrantFiled: October 8, 2010Date of Patent: March 5, 2013Assignee: Verizon Patent and Licensing Inc.Inventor: John R. Feroldi
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Patent number: 8384537Abstract: The vehicle interior security apparatus ensures the security of living beings within the confines of an auto or other enclosure in which they might reside or temporarily reside. The apparatus importantly provides for automatic emergency alert as well as manually triggered emergency alert. The apparatus can therefore safely guard even animals, babies, and others unable to fend for themselves. The apparatus provides for power generation so that existing power, such as that of a vehicle, need not be fully relied upon. The solar grid can power the apparatus and can also recharge existing electrical systems as well as operate the apparatus. The apparatus provides multiple components for audio, visual, and airwave warnings.Type: GrantFiled: October 13, 2010Date of Patent: February 26, 2013Inventor: Omega R. Simmons
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Publication number: 20130044008Abstract: The present invention relates to an emergency response system, method and apparatus. More specifically, the present invention relates to a system, method and apparatus for integrating emergency response functionality with a vehicle factory-installed emergency or hazard light device.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 19, 2011Publication date: February 21, 2013Applicant: GPSI, LLCInventors: Tom Gafford, Rand Mueller
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Publication number: 20130038444Abstract: A system comprising a power supply, an emergency warning light and a speaker, in combination with a control head. One or more processors controls operation of the system in response to received user input and provides system status for display. Storage media encoded with emergency warning light system instructions for execution by one or more of the processors controls the actuation of the emergency warning light system and controls light patterns generated by the emergency warning light system. The storage media is further encoded with siren system instructions for execution by one or more of the processors for controlling the actuation of the siren system and for controlling audible sounds generated by the siren system.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 23, 2012Publication date: February 14, 2013Applicant: CODE 3, INC.Inventors: Daniel S. Miller, Roger L. Miller, Daniel S. Pursley, John C. Davis
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Patent number: 8368560Abstract: There is provided an automated warning system which includes a receiver/controller, an actuator, one or more relays electrically connected to both the receiver and the linear actuator, a flag holder and a mechanical linkage connecting the linear actuator to the flag holder such that movement of the linear actuator causes the flag holder to move between raised and lowered positions.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2009Date of Patent: February 5, 2013Inventor: Walter Dea McDonald
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Patent number: 8364077Abstract: An object of the present invention is to solve a problem of a conventional semiconductor device in that although information such as whether the semiconductor device exists in a predetermined space and information on an ID and the like included in the semiconductor device can be obtained, a position where the semiconductor is located in the predetermined space cannot be identified. The semiconductor device includes a signal sorting portion which sorts a signal based on a signal output from the outside and a signal detecting portion for detecting the signal output from the outside. In a structure of the semiconductor device including the signal sorting portion and the signal detecting portion, a position detecting system is developed base on signals from a plurality of interrogators.Type: GrantFiled: April 17, 2007Date of Patent: January 29, 2013Assignee: Semiconductor Energy Laboratory Co., Ltd.Inventors: Jun Koyama, Shunpei Yamazaki
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Patent number: 8350682Abstract: A system for providing external notification of a vehicle event to an operator includes a reader device connected to a control unit providing status of at least one vehicle condition with the vehicle having a diesel particulate filter (DPF), a plurality of warning devices connected to the reader device and a power supply connected to the reader device and to the warning devices wherein the reader device receives data via data lines from the control unit, decodes the received data to determine the occurrence of a vehicle event relating to the DPF and controls ground signal lines of the warning devices to trigger at least one of the warning devices based on the detection of a particular event.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 2009Date of Patent: January 8, 2013Assignee: Mack Trucks, Inc.Inventors: John C. Higgins, David Keith Troupe
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Patent number: 8325029Abstract: A multiple color multi-function light bar for a law enforcement vehicle, emergency vehicle, tow truck or the like. The light bar includes a plurality of light emitting diodes aligned in a single row. Each of the plurality of light emitting diodes are configured to emit two different colors of light through a single optical lens. Advantageously, the light bar is capable of producing a single color light pattern and a dual color light pattern based upon the particular emergency or traffic control situation encountered by an operator of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2009Date of Patent: December 4, 2012Assignees: Brookings Industries, Inc., Juluen Enterprises Co., Ltd.Inventors: Richard Brooking, Anthony Chun Hua Chan
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Publication number: 20120268266Abstract: A vehicle-mounted warning light system comprises a housing containing a central light surrounded by several sets of outer lights. A controller is programmed to light the central first, and then each set of outer lights in sequence, while at the same time increasing the intensity of the lights, so that the system appears to an observer to be a single light that is getting bigger and brighter. This creates the illusion that the vehicle is travelling toward the observer faster than it actually is, thus prompting the observer to quickly yield right-of-way.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 23, 2011Publication date: October 25, 2012Inventors: John E. McLoughlin, Neocles G. Athanasiades, Kiam Meng Toh
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Patent number: 8296054Abstract: The invention relates to a method and device for limiting the number of alarms generated by an anticollision system on board an airplane according to which the duration of a phase of capture of a setpoint altitude by the airplane is adjusted so that a theoretical time for collision with an intruder aircraft is greater than a predetermined threshold, when the airplane is close to said setpoint altitude and air traffic exists in the environment of said airplane.Type: GrantFiled: September 18, 2009Date of Patent: October 23, 2012Assignee: Airbus Operations SASInventors: Paule Botargues, Xavier Dal Santo, Pierre Fabre, Xavier Guery
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Patent number: 8256941Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle light system comprising a laser device for generating a laser beam, further comprising a light output module provided with a phosphor element for emitting a light beam upon incidence of the generated laser beam and provided with an optical element associated with the phosphor element for producing a light output beam. Furthermore, the light system comprises a further light output module provided with a corresponding further phosphor element and a second optical element. The laser device is arranged to switch between a first state, in which the generated laser beam is directed to the phosphor element, and a second state in which the generated laser beam is directed to the further phosphor element.Type: GrantFiled: August 17, 2009Date of Patent: September 4, 2012Assignee: Koninklijke Philips Electronics N.V.Inventors: Rifat A. M. Hikmet, Ties Van Bommel
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Patent number: 8203441Abstract: A display system for displaying an opening state of a motor vehicle door is provided that includes, but is not limited to a sensor system for detecting an opening state of the motor vehicle door. A display unit is connected to the sensor system for displaying the opening state of the motor vehicle door. A display element is redundantly connected redundantly to the sensor system is provided for displaying the opening state of the motor vehicle door. The probability of the display system correctly indicating the opening state of the motor vehicle door is thereby increased.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2009Date of Patent: June 19, 2012Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: Dirk Bolduan
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Patent number: 8198996Abstract: The present provides a system which integrates motor vehicle turn signal operation into actuators located in the rim of a motor vehicle steering wheel. The actuators of the system of the present invention, one for controlling the right-hand turn signal and one for controlling the left-hand turn signal, are located in an arc segment of the steering wheel defined by the three o'clock and 12 o'clock positions for the right-hand actuator and the nine o'clock and 12 o'clock positions for the left-hand actuator. The actuators may operate in parallel with a conventional stalk switch and only turn on the respective turn signal lights when activated and subsequently depressed. The turn signal lights turn off when the actuators are released. The integrated turn signal system of the present invention further provides for turn signal operation which does not require a driver to remove his or her hands from the steering wheel.Type: GrantFiled: September 8, 2009Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Inventor: Adam Simon Golomb
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Patent number: 8149136Abstract: A configurable sign includes a mounting mechanism that connects the configurable sign to a vehicle, a display, a memory to store a plurality of instructions, and a processor to execute instructions in the memory. The processor executes instructions in the memory to receive configured sign information from one of a user device or a server, configure one of text, graphics, video, or audio, associated with the display, based on the configured sign information, and display, via the display, the configured text, graphics, video, or audio.Type: GrantFiled: December 4, 2008Date of Patent: April 3, 2012Assignee: Verizon Patent and Licensing Inc.Inventor: John R. Feroldi
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Patent number: 8144004Abstract: The embodiments of the invention are directed to a method and apparatus to generate pulsing lights where parameters such as frequency, degree of brightness, and the number of pulses vary depending on the duration of the brake pedal application, the time interval between consecutive brake applications, and the deceleration rate of the vehicle, as well as optionally its distance from other vehicles. The brake light control system incorporates a microprocessor having multiple inputs, including a brake pedal sensor, and its output connected via an amplifying circuit to the lights. Other inputs of the microprocessor include a deceleration sensor, a distance sensor, and an optional manual pushbutton or switch located within the driver's reach. The lights controlled by the system may include brake lights, emergency lights, or additional lights shaped into a warning triangle.Type: GrantFiled: March 30, 2007Date of Patent: March 27, 2012Assignee: BLC Paws, LLCInventors: Waldemar Polak, Adam Polak, J. Lee Edwards, Piotr Folkert, M. Lee Jones
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Patent number: 8134478Abstract: Disclosed is a feature for a vehicle that enables taking precautionary actions in response to conditions on the road network around or ahead of the vehicle. User reports of hazardous conditions along roads are obtained and analyzed to identify reports that pertain to the same general location along a road network. A database that represents the road network is used to confirm the user reports, identify the hazardous condition, and determine locations where precautionary action may be taken. Then, precautionary action data is added to the database to indicate a location at which a precautionary action is to be taken about the user-reported hazardous condition located along the section of road. A precautionary action system installed in a vehicle uses this database, or a database derived therefrom, in combination with a positioning system to determine when the vehicle is at a location that corresponds to the location of a precautionary action.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2008Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: Navteq B.V.Inventor: Robert Denaro
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Patent number: 8106760Abstract: Vehicle 4-way emergency flasher circuits are modified by circuit branches which enable flashing selected pairs of emergency lamps at a higher frequency or in other discernible different ways. These selected lamps become visible and recognizable as right or left turn signals while the 4-way flasher circuit is operating.Type: GrantFiled: July 29, 2008Date of Patent: January 31, 2012Assignee: Trixcel, LLPInventors: Gregory J. Ekchian, Berj A. Terzian, Jack A. Ekchian
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Patent number: 8099217Abstract: A method for managing haul routes in work environments comprises collecting performance data associated with a machine operating in a work environment. The method also includes determining a drive axle torque of the machine and estimating a total effective grade associated with the machine based on the drive axle torque. The estimated total effective grade is compared with a threshold level and, if the estimated total effective grade exceeds the threshold level, a design performance of the machine may be simulated based on the calculated total effective grade. Design performance data is compared with the collected performance data, and a payload limit of the machine is adjusted if the design performance is inconsistent with collected performance data.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2007Date of Patent: January 17, 2012Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Jonny Ray Greiner, Yang Liu, Bhavin Jagdishbhai Vyas
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Patent number: 8095279Abstract: A method for managing haul routes in work environments comprises receiving performance criteria associated with a haul route and establishing a target total effective grade for at least one machine associated with the haul route based on the performance criteria. The method also includes collecting performance data associated with the at least one machine. A drive axle torque of the at least one machine is determined and an actual total effective grade associated with the at least one machine is estimated. The at least one machine is identified as an underperforming machine if the actual total effective grade for the at least one machine exceeds the target total effective grade. An average total effective grade for the at least one machine is determined as a function of the actual total effective grade. A haul route deficiency is identified if the average total effective grade exceeds a threshold level.Type: GrantFiled: August 31, 2007Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: Caterpillar Inc.Inventors: Jonny Ray Greiner, Yang Liu, Bhavin Jagdishbhai Vyas
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Patent number: 8049610Abstract: An Abrupt Braking Indicator (ABI) that complements a vehicle's existing rear brake light by determining the difference between regular brake pedal usage and dangerous abrupt stops or abrupt-braking that often causes accidents. It is when, and only when, an abrupt stop or hard brake occurs at the differential gravitational value of 0.5 G or more that the present invention emits highly noticeable flashing lights that warn following drivers of the sudden hazard ahead.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2008Date of Patent: November 1, 2011Inventor: Mohd B. Malik
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Patent number: 8044790Abstract: A third light is added above the lower two rear turn signal lights of an automotive vehicle Detection hardware is included which senses when both lower lights begin flashing simultaneously due to activation of the vehicle's 4-way hazard warning system. Such detection also introduces current pulses to the third light which flashes simultaneously with the lower two lights to generate a triangular configuration of the three flashing lights. Retrofit circuitry is described to enable installing the modified triangular signal into existing vehicles.Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 2009Date of Patent: October 25, 2011Assignee: Trixcel, LLPInventors: Jack A. Ekchian, Berj A. Terzian
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Patent number: 8026800Abstract: A method for controlling operation of an external visual indicator includes the steps of determining whether a second vehicle is approaching the first vehicle, and modifying the external visual indicator if the second vehicle is approaching the first vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: August 26, 2008Date of Patent: September 27, 2011Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLCInventor: Mark J. Person
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Patent number: 8013759Abstract: A transmitter unit has a housing adapted to be coupled in association with a trailing vehicle. The housing also has a multiple axis accelerometer adapted to sense the status of the transmitter unit and a trailing vehicle. The housing also has electronic components coupled with the accelerometer. A receiver unit has a housing adapted to be coupled in association with a leading vehicle. A user in audio proximity to the receiver unit is wirelessly signaled in the event of an anomaly at the transmitter unit.Type: GrantFiled: April 11, 2008Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Inventors: James D. Aid, Norman F. Cameron, Shahid Q. Din
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Patent number: 8013728Abstract: A system and method for providing emergency warnings for a rollover vehicle is provided. In one embodiment, the invention relates to a warning system for an automobile including a power source configured to provide a current, a control circuit coupled to the power source, at least one position sensor coupled to the control circuit, the at least one position sensor configured to detect at least one position of the automobile with respect to a ground surface, and at least one light source coupled to the control circuit, wherein the control circuit is configured to control current flow to the at least one light source based on the at least one position.Type: GrantFiled: May 22, 2008Date of Patent: September 6, 2011Inventor: Eric George Carpenter