Hazard Warning Or Distress Signalling Patents (Class 340/471)
  • Patent number: 6879251
    Abstract: An electrical input signal from a vehicle's safety system actuates an electronic switch to close a by-pass circuit that circumvents a manual control for hazard lights. As a result, the hazard lights are automatically activated in response to the input signal upon actuation from the safety system and without manual intervention.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Date of Patent: April 12, 2005
    Inventors: William J. Robbins, Allan Solomon
  • Patent number: 6867692
    Abstract: The invention is a system including a third brake light for an automobile. The brake light is equipped with means for displaying a warning message when an emergency condition arises. Light emitting diodes, thin film transistors, liquid crystal displays, light bulbs or other light emitting or refracting means display a warning message when activated. The light emitting or refracting means operate in a normal mode when an emergency condition is not present.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 15, 2005
    Inventor: Tamra Weatherspoon
  • Patent number: 6850156
    Abstract: An anti-collision safety system 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 may be 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, a proximity sensing device may be provided to detect objects exteriorly of the vehicle. Preferably, an accelerometer may also be included to provide a deceleration signal to the microprocessor. The microprocessor may modulate the indicator independent of actuation of the brake pedal by a driver of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 1, 2005
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: John Bloomfield, Niall R. Lynam
  • Patent number: 6842110
    Abstract: An indication system is located within the interior of a vehicle to eliminate any drag caused by the system, and is also mounted in a manner which provides a stealth effect. Preferably, the indication system is incorporated into the interior trim. The indication system is also structured to prevent any flashback to the occupants of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 11, 2005
    Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: John H. Quigley, Jeff A. Matson, Christopher W. Gattis, Rebecca J. Ford
  • Publication number: 20040239493
    Abstract: A windshield attachable electronic display sign apparatus for communicating and displaying messages upon the windshield of a vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 28, 2003
    Publication date: December 2, 2004
    Inventor: Miriam M. Miller
  • Patent number: 6822578
    Abstract: A light emitting diode (LED) warning signal light, the warning signal light comprising an array of light sources configured on a light support and in electrical communication with a controller and a power supply, battery, or other electrical source. The warning signal light provides various colored light signals for independent use or use by an emergency vehicle. These light signals may include a stationary light, strobe light, revolving light, and an oscillating light. Additionally, the warning signal light may be capable of displaying symbols, reverse characters, or arrows. Preferably, rotating and oscillating light signals are produced by sequentially illuminating columns of LED's on a stationary light support. However, the warning signal light may also be rotated or oscillated via mechanical means. The warning signal light may also be transportable for easy connection to a stand such as a tripod for electrical connection to a power supply as a stand-alone warning signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 23, 2004
    Assignee: 911EP, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Pederson
  • Patent number: 6819234
    Abstract: Method and system for providing an audible warning of approach of a moving vehicle that is undergoing hard braking. When hard braking is being applied and the initial vehicle velocity (just before hard braking is first applied) is at least equal to a selected threshold velocity, an artificially produced warning sound, resembling the screech or howl of one or more tires in a panic stop, is transmitted, in one or more selected angular sectors. If the initial vehicle velocity is less than the threshold velocity, the warning sound is witheld. The threshold velocity may depend upon one or more of initial velocity, initial deceleration, local road surface conditions and local weather conditions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2004
    Inventors: Lawrence Bunker, James Bunker
  • Patent number: 6809654
    Abstract: A deployable message display and work light structure for attachment to a vehicle. Said structure comprises an anchor assembly attachable to the front or rear end of a vehicle, a message display panel support frame having parallel arms hingedly secured at their lower end to the anchor assembly, and a message display panel secured to the upper end of said arms. Said support frame may be rotated between a stored position, in which said arms follow the upper surface contour of the vehicle, and a substantially vertical raised display position whereby said message display panel is viewable to oncoming motorists. Work lights secured to the frame below said panel shine downward to illuminate the site without spilling glare in the eyes of motorists. Preferaby the display panel displays in alternative flashes a one word message and a graphical representation of open and closed travel lanes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2004
    Inventor: Ed Hudson
  • Patent number: 6798354
    Abstract: A device for the radio-transmission of a hazard warning to the driver of a motor vehicle includes a data transmission device for transmitting and receiving data. The data transmission device exchanges data with data transmission devices of other motor vehicles, including data to warn other motor vehicles of the hazard, evaluates received data and outputs warning signals to the driver when a hazard is detected. The transmitted data includes information on the position, speed and direction of travel of the transmitting motor vehicle, as well as the type of road on which the transmitting motor vehicle is moving. The information on the position, the type of road and the direction of travel is generated by a navigation system. A warning zone around the current position of the transmitting vehicle is calculated by a computer unit and emitted by means of the data transmission device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2004
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventor: Robert Schuessler
  • Patent number: 6789930
    Abstract: A light emitting diode (LED) warning signal light, the warning signal light comprising a plurality of light sources constructed and arranged with a reflector or cullminator, the LED light source being in electrical communication with a controller and a power supply, battery, or other electrical source. The warning signal light provides various colored light signals for independent use or use by an emergency vehicle. These light signals may include a strobe light, revolving light, an alternating light, a flashing light, a modulated light, a pulsating light, an oscillating light or any combination thereof. Additionally, the warning signal light may be capable of displaying symbols, reverse characters, or arrows. The controller may further be adapted to regulate or modulate the power intensity exposed to the illuminated LED's to create a variable intensity light signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 14, 2004
    Assignee: 911EP, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Pederson
  • Patent number: 6788217
    Abstract: A light emitting diode (LED) warning signal light, the warning signal light comprising an array of light sources configured on a light support and in electrical communication with a controller and a power supply, battery, or other electrical source. The warning signal light provides various colored light signals for independent use or use by an emergency vehicle. These light signals may include a stationary light, strobe light, revolving light, and an oscillating light. Additionally, the warning signal light may be capable of displaying symbols, reverse characters, or arrows. Preferably, rotating and oscillating light signals are produced by sequentially illuminating columns of LED's on a stationary light support. However, the warning signal light may also be rotated or oscillated via mechanical means. The warning signal light may also be transportable for easy connection to a stand such as a tripod for electrical connection to a power supply as a stand-alone warning signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2004
    Assignee: 911EP, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Pederson
  • Patent number: 6778077
    Abstract: A vehicle mounted warning assembly for providing highly visible safety measures for trucks and trailers upon roadways. The vehicle mounted warning assembly includes a display assembly being adapted to mount to a vehicle for providing a warning to other motorists, and including one or more plates, and also including an assembly of illuminating light being attached to the one or more plates; and also includes a support assembly being adapted to mount to a vehicle and supporting the display assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2004
    Inventor: Henry C. DeGraaf
  • Patent number: 6774772
    Abstract: For the attention control for an operator of technical equipment, a display device for displaying action-relevant information in the form of images or symbols is implemented in which the duration of the display of the specific image or symbol lies below a conscious and above an unconscious perception threshold of the operator, and in which the specific image or symbol is displayed at those locations of the field of vision of the operator at which objects are located to which his/her attention is to be drawn. The advantage of the present invention consists in that the operator does not need to turn his/her view away from the scene to be monitored and in that he/she is not unnecessarily disturbed by the representation of information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 10, 2004
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventor: Stefan Hahn
  • Publication number: 20040145463
    Abstract: The invention is a system including a third brake light for an automobile. The brake light is equipped with means for displaying a warning message when an emergency condition arises. Light emitting diodes, thin film transistors, liquid crystal displays, light bulbs or other light emitting or refracting means display a warning message when activated. The light emitting or refracting means operate in a normal mode when an emergency condition is not present.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Publication date: July 29, 2004
    Inventor: Tamra Weatherspoon
  • Patent number: 6759953
    Abstract: There is provided a safety flasher system for a vehicle having a brake pedal, brake lights, an emergency flasher switch, and emergency flasher lights. The system is to be operable during a panic stop or a brake failure, and comprises: a first switch, which is electrically coupled to the brake lights and operable to activate the brake lights when the brake pedal is depressed under normal braking conditions; a second switch electrically coupled to the emergency flasher lights and operable to activate the emergency flasher lights when the brake pedal is depressed under severe braking conditions; a holding relay electrically coupled to the second switch for holding the emergency flasher lights in the activated mode; and an electrical coupling between the second switch, the holding relay and the emergency flasher switch wherein the emergency flasher lights are deactivated by moving the emergency flasher switch to an on position followed by moving the emergency flasher switch to an off position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 6, 2004
    Inventors: Sylvie S. Gilbert, Antoine T. Macksoud
  • Patent number: 6734799
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) helps protect an occupant (1) of a vehicle (100). The apparatus (10) includes first means (11) for non-intrusively sensing at least one health condition of the vehicle occupant (1) and for producing a first output signal (110) indicative of the health condition of the vehicle occupant (1). The apparatus (10) further includes 2ND means (21) for transmitting a health condition signal derived from the first output signal (110) to a person at a location remote from the vehicle (100) to convey health condition information to the person and to enable the person to determine a suitable type of response.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 11, 2004
    Assignee: TRW Inc.
    Inventor: Carl A. Munch
  • Patent number: 6717366
    Abstract: An apparatus for controlling power supply for use in a vehicle causes a lamp load to blink by power supply from an in-vehicle battery or generator. The power to be supplied to the lamp load is stepwise decrease whenever a blinking time of the lamp load passes prescribed times. In this configuration a lamp load can blink for a longer time without saving power excessively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 6, 2004
    Assignee: Yazaki Corporation
    Inventor: Akinori Maruyama
  • Patent number: 6714128
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2004
    Inventors: David C. Abbe, Thomas H. Rudd
  • Patent number: 6710709
    Abstract: Circuitry and/or device(s) provide a flashing or blinking light in the rear of a vehicle to alert others of a reduction in speed or directional change to substantially increase driver and passenger safety while travelling.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventors: Louis F. Morin, Merribeth J. Morin
  • Patent number: 6707389
    Abstract: A light emitting diode (LED) warning signal light, the warning signal light comprising a plurality of light sources constructed and arranged with a reflector or culminator, the LED light source being in electrical communication with a controller and a power supply, battery, or other electrical source. The warning signal light provides various colored light signals for independent use or use on an emergency vehicle. The warning light signals may include a strobe light, revolving light, an alternating light, a flashing light, a modulated light, a pulsating light, an oscillating light or any combination thereof. The controller may further be adapted to regulate or modulate the power intensity exposed to the illuminated LED's to create a variable intensity light signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: 911EP, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Pederson
  • Patent number: 6700502
    Abstract: A light emitting diode (LED) warning signal light, the warning signal light comprising a plurality of light sources constructed and arranged with a reflector or cullminator, the LED light source being in electrical communication with a controller and a power supply, battery, or other electrical source. The warning signal light provides various colored light signals for independent use or use by an emergency vehicle. These light signals may include a strobe light, revolving light, an alternating light, a flashing light, a modulated light, a pulsating light, an oscillating light or any combination thereof. Additionally, the warning signal light may be capable of displaying symbols, reverse characters, or arrows. The controller may further be adapted to regulate or modulate the power intensity exposed to the illuminated LED's to create a variable intensity light signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 2, 2004
    Assignee: 911EP, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Pederson
  • Patent number: 6693551
    Abstract: A modular warning signal light system comprising at least one support. The at least one support having at least one module receiving port. The module receiving ports constructed and arranged to removably receive the support engagement member of a module. Each module having at least one visible side. The at least one visible side having at least one light emitting diode light source engaged thereto. The at least one light emitting diode light source, module and support all in independent electrical communication with a controller. The controller constructed and arranged to selectively activate the at least one support, the at least one module, the at least one light emitting diode light source, and any combinations thereof to create at least one warning light signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 24, 2002
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2004
    Assignee: 911EP, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Pederson
  • Patent number: 6683532
    Abstract: A warning light system has one or more articulated arrays of light blocks. The arrays maybe packable and lockable for transporting. In a deployed state the arrays provide variable combinations of light signals that may alert and direct oncoming traffic. The arrays are mechanically and electrically connected to a control module which controls the light blocks to provide light signals. The arrays can be deployed in a hazardous or obstructed lane without entering an unobstructed traffic lane.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: DTR Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: William J. Peet, II, Leonard H. Lipman
  • Patent number: 6677853
    Abstract: This disclosure concerns an invention used to deter auto collisions with animals, and more specifically to allow standard automobile horn to be altered in a manner such that the noise alerts animals, particularly deer, to the presence of an approaching vehicle. A timer/oscillator is selectively connectable between the vehicle horn actuator (e.g., the button on the steering wheel of the vehicle) and the vehicle horn. When the timer is connected between the horn actuator and the horn, a continuous input to the horn actuator is converted to an intermittent horn output (preferably cycling between 2-20 Hz), this intermittent horn output being synchronized with the timer pulses. Such cycling of the horn causes a flight response in animals when sounded in their vicinity.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 13, 2004
    Inventor: Jerrid Scott Canfield
  • Publication number: 20030201886
    Abstract: An electrical input signal from a vehicle's safety system actuates an electronic switch to close a by-pass circuit that circumvents a manual control for hazard lights. As a result, the hazard lights are automatically activated in response to the input signal upon actuation from the safety system and without manual intervention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2003
    Publication date: October 30, 2003
    Inventors: William J. Robbins, Allan Solomon
  • Patent number: 6626477
    Abstract: The invention relates to a conversion system and method of converting a vehicle into a police car or similar emergency vehicle in a manner which is easily installed and removed and designed so that it causes no damage to the vehicle, thereby improving the resale value of the vehicle upon termination of the lease or retirement of the vehicle from service.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 30, 2003
    Assignee: L & P Property Management Company
    Inventors: Lyman B. Maynard, Tom Forsythe
  • Patent number: 6614359
    Abstract: A light emitting diode (LED) warning signal light, the warning signal light comprising an array of light sources configured on a light support and in electrical communication with a controller and a power supply, battery, or other electrical source. The warning signal light provides various colored light signals for independent use or use by an emergency vehicle. These light signals may include a stationary light, strobe light, revolving light, an alternating light, a flashing light, and an oscillating light. Additionally, the warning signal light may be capable of displaying symbols, reverse characters, or arrows. Preferably, rotating and oscillating light signals are produced by sequentially illuminating columns of LED's on a stationary light support. However, the warning signal light may also be rotated or oscillated via mechanical means.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2003
    Assignee: 911 Emergency Products, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Pederson
  • Publication number: 20030160690
    Abstract: A magnetically mountable vehicle hazard device is mounted to a vehicle, during hazardous conditions, for example. The vehicle hazard device is battery operated and includes a light, a housing, and a flexible magnetic strip such that the device can be magnetically attached to a vehicle's outer surface, yet be rolled up (e.g., as part of an emergency roadside kit) when not in use.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2002
    Publication date: August 28, 2003
    Inventor: Carl J. Baldwin
  • Patent number: 6603395
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 3, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2003
    Inventor: John S. Wilson
  • Patent number: 6600415
    Abstract: The invention relates to emergency-deceleration condition transducers, including an insulation house made by insulation material, which defines a closed arc hollow groove. Said arc hollow groove is filled with some mercury. Said mercury in the arc groove will be moved for front and behind along the arc surface when the traveling speed is changed during the motor vehicle travailing, so that the electrodes spaced will be turned on/turned off to produce corresponding condition signal. The invention relates still to emergency brake lamps using the emergency-deceleration condition transducers, the turning on/off of the lamps will be carried out automatically without effects by driver mistaking operating, so the accident of vehicle striking from behind can be effectively avoided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2003
    Inventor: Jiekui Li
  • Patent number: 6580367
    Abstract: A method and system for notifying emergency personnel as to the location and contents of a vehicle. The system includes an information dispatch device positioned within the vehicle for storing and transmitting data related to the vehicle, cargo being carried by the vehicle and instructions on handling emergency situations involving the cargo carried by the vehicle to a Global Positioning Satellite upon detection of an emergency situation and a command control center for receiving a location signal from the Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) including the data transmitted by said information dispatch device and a location signal for the vehicle generated by the Global Positioning Satellite. The command control center is able to contact emergency personnel upon receipt of the location signal and provide a location of the vehicle and information concerning the material carried by the vehicle. The data is preferably provided to the information dispatch device by a data input device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2003
    Inventor: John Edward Roach
  • Publication number: 20030095041
    Abstract: A remote motor vehicle signal indicator system consists of a transmitter coupled to a vehicle indication signal drive line. The transmitter wirelessly transmits a receiver activation signal corresponding to a vehicle indication signal of the vehicle indication signal drive line. The vehicle indication signal is selected from the group consisting of a turn signal, a brake signal, a reverse gear signal, and a hazard signal. The system also includes a remote vehicle signal indicator coupled to a surface outside of the vehicle and includes a signal indicator display. The remote vehicle signal indicator receives the receiver activation signal from the transmitter and, in response, activates the signal indicator display. In some variations, a power supply not coupled to the vehicle power supply powers the remote vehicle signal indicator and the transmitter is powered by the vehicle indication signal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2001
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventors: Richard I. Perlman, Norman G. Looper
  • Publication number: 20030090391
    Abstract: A hazard avoidance system for a vehicle utilizes data related to a location of a collision threat, conditions at the location, and vehicle operating parameters to select a light illumination routine that is optimal to attract the attention of and repel a collision hazard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2002
    Publication date: May 15, 2003
    Inventors: Scott Philiben, Bradley F. Blackwell
  • Patent number: 6556147
    Abstract: Highway safety markings around construction sites are of the utmost importance to both the driver and the worker, and traffic pylons have become a common method of channeling traffic away from hazards or into desired travel lanes. At night, however, these pylons become hard to see in unlighted areas, and their illumination is highly desirable. One method of providing illumination that is commonly used in highway barriers is a battery powered light mounted to the top of a pylon or trestle type barrier. However the additional weight of a light unit mounted at the top of a relatively light weight traffic pylon makes the pylon, which is already subject to tipping by wind or impact by vehicles, more top heavy and subject to tip over. The present invention overcomes this obstacle by placing the light source in the base of the pylon, providing additional stability and illuminating it from within, while also providing the light source with protection from the elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Inventors: William R. Fisher, Ronald D. McNiven, Biagio Magliocca
  • Patent number: 6549123
    Abstract: A warning system for a hood of a vehicle is provided which includes a switch electrically connected to a vehicle ignition, a vehicle starter, warning indicia, and a power source. The warning indicia receives power from the power source and the starter is unconnected to the power when the switch is in an open position. The vehicle ignition and the vehicle starter receives power from the power source when the switch is in a closed position. The switch includes a movable contactor to close the switch when the hood is locked to the vehicle and to open the switch when said hood is not locked to the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2003
    Inventors: Robert Barret Monahan, Peter Ernest Magnuson, Sr., Albert Eart Magnuson, Jr.
  • Patent number: 6542073
    Abstract: A rollover sensing system (10) includes a roll rate sensor (14) operative to sense a roll rate of rotation of a vehicle (12) and to provide a roll rate signal having an electrical characteristic indicative thereof. A controller (26) is connected to the roll rate sensor (14) and is operative to determine a roll angle of the vehicle (12) based on the roll rate signal. The controller (26) includes a threshold having a value functionally related to roll angle. The controller (26) determines the occurrence of a vehicle rollover condition in response to the sensed roll rate crossing the threshold.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Assignee: TRW Inc.
    Inventors: Huahn-Fern Yeh, Chek-Peng Foo, Steven Michael Cash, Shun-Hsin Chang, Flora Maior
  • Patent number: 6525656
    Abstract: The invention concerns a system for providing advanced warning or advanced information of other road users via a vehicle, which includes an optical signal device for detection of other road users, with a sensor for automatic recognition of situations, which may possibly require an advanced warning or advanced information for other road users. When such a situation is recognized, the signal device is activated at least once for a short duration, of which the duration is below the conscious detection threshold and above the subconscious detection threshold of the road user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AG
    Inventor: Stefan Hahn
  • Patent number: 6522263
    Abstract: A traffic control system includes a vertically and horizontally disposed pole. The vertically disposed pole has a lower end mounted to a ground surface while an upper end mounts the horizontally disposed pole at a right angle. The horizontally disposed pole extends out over a vehicular roadway and, at least a pair of signal assemblies are mounted to the horizontally disposed pole for controlling vehicular traffic which may pass by an emergency vehicle rescue station. The signal assemblies illuminate a light bulb signal sequence upon activation by a programmable central control panel and instruct vehicular traffic to stop. A receive and antenna receive a wireless signal sent from a remote location within the rescue station. A pair of verification lights mount on the traffic control system and directed towards the rescue station provide a means for indicating to emergency vehicle operators that the illumination sequence is operating properly and that all light bulbs in the signal assembly are illuminating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2003
    Assignee: R.D. Jones, Right of Way, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard D. Jones
  • Patent number: 6515584
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 4, 2003
    Inventor: John W. DeYoung
  • Publication number: 20030016146
    Abstract: A method and system for vehicle hazard warning and safety integrated with an onboard navigational system for providing a current geographical location of the vehicle to a base station, receiving an event signal from the vehicle at the base station, while the vehicle is proximate to the current geographic location associating the geographic location with the event signal to determine that the vehicle is distressed, and transmitting hazard information from the base station to the vehicle in response to such association. The association may be based upon directional information which is provided by the vehicle. A control signal is transmitted to the vehicle and the hazard lights of the vehicle are automatically activated in response to receipt of that control signal. Navigational assistance can also be presented to the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 18, 2001
    Publication date: January 23, 2003
    Applicant: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Cary Lee Bates, Robert James Crenshaw, Paul Reuben Day, John Matthew Santosuosso
  • Publication number: 20020190847
    Abstract: A road vehicle road vehicle direction indicator light system 1 comprises front and rear lamps 2, 4 for the nearside and front and rear lamps 6, 8 for the offside of the vehicle, a battery 10 power source connected to an ignition switch 12, a hazard warning switch 14 and a flasher control unit 16 connected to an indicator switch 18. With the exception of the flasher control unit 16 the other individual elements of the road vehicle indicator light system 1 are fairly standard.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 2, 2002
    Publication date: December 19, 2002
    Inventor: Neil Alistair Armstrong
  • Patent number: 6496123
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: WWS Leasing
    Inventor: Gordon E. Brinkman
  • Patent number: 6486774
    Abstract: A vehicular deceleration warning system for providing a warning that impending deceleration and braking may occur. The vehicular deceleration warning system includes an accelerator pedal pressure sensor for detecting removal of a driver's foot pressure from the accelerator pedal. The sensor comprises a housing. The housing includes a bottom wall with a substantially planar bottom for securely removably mounting on a front surface of the pedal. The housing also includes a top wall with a substantially planar top surface for pressing a foot against. A first plate is mounted in the housing adjacent to the top wall of the housing. A second plate is mounted in the housing adjacent to the bottom wall of the housing. A biasing means is provided for biasing the second plate away from the first plate. A signaling means is provided for visually warning the following vehicle of the impending deceleration of the first vehicle. The signaling means is designed to illuminate when activated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Inventor: Alphonso Arnold, Sr.
  • Patent number: 6462479
    Abstract: The headlamp system provides a reduced amount of illumination adjacent a driver's line of sight while providing a maintained or increased level of illumination from a source that is offset from the driver's line of sight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Inventor: John T. Griffin
  • Patent number: 6461008
    Abstract: A light emitting diode (LED) warning signal light, the warning signal light comprising a plurality of light sources constructed and arranged with a reflector or culminator, the LED light source being in electrical communication with a controller and a power supply, battery, or other electrical source. The warning signal light provides various colored light signals for independent use or use on an emergency vehicle. The warning light signals may include a strobe light, revolving light, an alternating light, a flashing light, a modulated light, a pulsating light, an oscillating light or any combination thereof. The controller may further be adapted to regulate or modulate the power intensity exposed to the illuminated LED's to create a variable intensity light signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Assignee: 911 Emergency Products, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Pederson
  • Patent number: 6462480
    Abstract: A process for diagnosing the proper operation of direction indicator lights of a motor vehicle includes the steps of temporally and alternately shifting the end of illumination of the right and left change of direction indicator lamps of the vehicle, measuring the current passing through a power circuit of the direction indicator lamps during the temporal shift, comparing the measured value with a reference value, and deducing therefrom whether at least one of the lamps is inoperative and in this case informing the driver thereof. A device for diagnosing the proper operation of the direction indicator lights of a motor vehicle is also provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Assignee: Siemens VDO Automotive S.A.S
    Inventor: Jean-Marc Tornare
  • Patent number: 6456206
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a inclement weather safety system where the purpose of the system is to allow other drivers in your vicinity to see your vehicle at a further distance away, when there is very severe weather conditions by strobing the head lights or fog lights or strobe lights at microsecond speed and/or increasing the illumination of various secondary lights of the motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 21, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Inventors: Richard M. Rocca, Irving Jacobson
  • Patent number: 6448902
    Abstract: A light-emitting device is designed to cover removably a conic roadblock and is formed of a hollow conic body and a plurality of warning units. The hollow conic body is formed of an outer fabric layer and an inner fabric layer. The warning units are disposed on the outer fabric layer of the conic body. The conic body is fitted over the conic roadblock. The warning units are provided with a light-emitting diode to make the conic roadblock vividly visible to the operator of an approaching motor vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 10, 2002
    Inventor: Rong-Fang Tung
  • Publication number: 20020084918
    Abstract: A method and system for notifying emergency personnel as to the location and contents of a vehicle. The system includes an information dispatch device positioned within the vehicle for storing and transmitting data related to the vehicle, cargo being carried by the vehicle and instructions on handling emergency situations involving the cargo carried by the vehicle to a Global Positioning Satellite upon detection of an emergency situation and a command control center for receiving a location signal from the Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) including the data transmitted by said information dispatch device and a location signal for the vehicle generated by the Global Positioning Satellite. The command control center is able to contact emergency personnel upon receipt of the location signal and provide a location of the vehicle and information concerning the material carried by the vehicle. The data is preferably provided to the information dispatch device by a data input device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 2, 2001
    Publication date: July 4, 2002
    Inventor: John Edward Roach
  • Patent number: 6411204
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: John Bloomfield, Niall R. Lynam