Auxiliary Signal Permanently Attached To Vehicle Patents (Class 340/472)
  • Patent number: 8742916
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides an LED light bar that provides off axis lighting. The warning light system includes lights that do not need reflectors that rotate to provide good light effects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 3, 2014
    Assignee: Federal Signal Corporation
    Inventors: Bernard Burke, Vincent Fleszewski, Charles Meyer, Christopher Radzik, George Frank, Sigmund Urbanski, Paul Gergets
  • Patent number: 8698647
    Abstract: A warning lamp has a base, a luminous module, a lampshade, and a reflector. The luminous module is mounted in the base and is located in a center segment of the base. The lampshade is combined with the base and has a lucent portion that is formed on a sidewall of the lampshade. The reflector is mounted in the lampshade and has a cone portion protruding toward the luminous module, a first surface facing the lucent portion, and a reflective portion formed on the first surface. The light emitted from the luminous module irradiates the reflective portion. The reflective portion reflects the light emitted from the luminous module to pass through the lucent portion. Accordingly, the warning lamp has a luminous effect in a circular form.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2012
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Inventor: Chun-Ming Huang
  • Patent number: 8698610
    Abstract: An elevated stop indicator light system for vehicles such as school buses comprises a translucent or transparent tubular housing having a strip of light emitting diodes extending therethrough, the housing being secured to a drip rail extending along and above side and/or rear windows of the vehicle by clips fastened to the vehicle. Operation of the elevated light system is coordinated with conventional warning devices, such as a fold-out stop sign and flashing red lights of the bus. The elevation of the stop indicator light system provides a highly visible warning system for surrounding traffic when the view of the conventional warning sign on the side of the bus is obscured by traffic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: April 15, 2014
    Inventor: John Adam Krugh, IV
  • Publication number: 20140085072
    Abstract: A strobe light includes a base, a mounting post, a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) lights, a control system, and a lens. The mounting post extends vertically from the base. The plurality of LED lights are mounted around a periphery of the mounting post. The control system is coupled to the plurality of LED lights and operable to independently control each LED light to produce at least one of a 360° strobe light pattern and a rotating beacon light pattern. The lens is connected to the base and covers the plurality of LED lights.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2013
    Publication date: March 27, 2014
    Inventors: Scott Clifford, Steven N. D. Brundula
  • Patent number: 8653957
    Abstract: A visual indicator assembly and adaptor for a trailer includes an control circuit, an input lamp plug electrically coupled to the control circuit, an output lamp plug electrically coupled to the control circuit, and an identification lamp plug electrically coupled to the control circuit. The input lamp plug is connectable to a trailer lamp plug of a lamp wiring harness of the trailer. The output lamp plug is connectable to a stop lamp of the trailer. The identification lamp plug is connectable to a corresponding identification lamp plug of the lamp wiring harness. The control circuit is configured to supply a first voltage signal to a plurality of lamps of the trailer in response to a power signal and supply a second voltage signal to the plurality of lamps in response to a brake signal. The second voltage signal is greater than the first voltage signal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: February 18, 2014
    Assignee: Wabash National, L.P.
    Inventors: Rodney Ehrlich, David Pickup
  • Patent number: 8638209
    Abstract: A traffic control board assembly as a self-contained unit is provided for mounting in an emergency response vehicle in a manner that accommodates deployment of a traffic control board above the top surface of the emergency response vehicle in any desired angular orientation about a vertical axis for visibility from any direction in relation to the emergency response vehicle. When docked, the top cover on the traffic board provides a weatherproof cover. Manual input and programmed control of a liftable rotation assembly on which the traffic board is mounted facilitate convenient and simple operation. A motion signal indicative of the emergency response vehicle moving can prevent deployment of the traffic control board and/or initiate returning it to a docked or stowed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2014
    Assignee: Super Vacuum Manufacturing Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Shaun Oskroba, Ervin Weinmeister
  • Patent number: 8604940
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Inventor: Mark Tremonti
  • Patent number: 8604922
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2013
    Inventor: Glen Harris
  • Patent number: 8585263
    Abstract: An illuminated vehicular sign is provided including a vehicle and luminescent planar sheet. The luminescent planar sheet is constructed to provide illuminated alpha-numeric characters which are mounted to the horizontal planar surfaces of a vehicle. The alpha-numeric characters are mounted substantially horizontally so as to be seen from the air such as by helicopters or planes.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Shipman
  • Patent number: 8581719
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2013
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuan-Lung Kuo, Hou-Yao Lin
  • Patent number: 8547219
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 1, 2013
    Inventor: Anthony J. Kisiel
  • Patent number: 8536997
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2013
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventor: David Joseph De Sanzo
  • Patent number: 8525659
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hou-Yao Lin, Sheng-Jung Yu
  • Patent number: 8525697
    Abstract: A mirror reflective element sub-assembly includes a mirror reflective element, a mirror back plate and a blind spot indicator. The mirror back plate has a generally planar portion and an indicator mounting portion. The indicator mounting portion of the mirror back plate is angled relative to the generally planar portion, and an aperture is established through the mirror back plate generally at the indicator mounting portion. A heater pad is disposed at the rear of the mirror reflective element, and a light transmitting portion of the heater pad is generally aligned with the aperture of the mirror back plate. With the light source of the blind spot indicator activated, light emitted by the light source transmits through an indicia element, the aperture and the light transmitting portion and exits the mirror reflective element at an angle relative to the generally planar portion of the mirror back plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2013
    Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith D. Foote, Niall R. Lynam
  • Publication number: 20130194090
    Abstract: A lighting system for use with an emergency vehicle comprising at least one lighting bar mounted to an exterior surface of the emergency vehicle, the lighting bar comprises a plurality of lighting elements operable to emit light, the at least one lighting bar operable to be placed in a first substantially horizontal lowered position and a second substantially vertical raised position, and a controller electrically coupled to the at least one lighting bar and configured to receive user input and controllably place the at least one lighting bar in one of a raised and lowered positions in response to the user input.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 18, 2013
    Publication date: August 1, 2013
    Applicant: ROM ACQUISITION CORPORATION
    Inventor: ROM ACQUISITION CORPORATION
  • Patent number: 8471716
    Abstract: Signaling methods and apparatuses are described for preventing flood irrigation water from overflowing in a trench, field, or other area. Signaling devices may include indicators such as a reflector, a flag, a light, or a sound device provided on an end of an elongate member having its opposite end engaged with the ground. A stake is driven into the ground near the elongate member in the trench or other area where water will flow. A breakaway link such as a strip of paper is engaged to either the indicator or the elongate member and also to the stake, causing the elongate member to be bent downward, with the breakaway link located in the trench where water will flow. When exposed to the flow of water, the breakaway link weakens and eventually tears such that the elongate member springs upward carrying the indicator with it, signaling an operator that water has reached that location in the trench.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2013
    Inventor: Michael Hansen
  • Patent number: 8466633
    Abstract: An illumination controlling device for a vehicle includes a controlling portion to change a luminance phase of a meter based on operation of an operating portion and to maintain a luminance phase of a lighting while the lighting is extinguished. The controlling portion changes the luminance phase of the meter based on the operation of the operating portion and changes the luminance phase of the lighting to correspond to the luminance phase of the meter if the operating portion is operated in a state that the luminance phase is different between the meter and the lighting while the lighting is illuminated.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2013
    Assignees: DENSO CORPORATION, Toyota Jidosha Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Masayuki Sugiura, Takaaki Muramatsu, Atsushi Nishiyama, Ryuji Suzuki, Shinji Suganuma
  • Patent number: 8393750
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2013
    Inventor: Parley A. Clement
  • Patent number: 8390475
    Abstract: 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, the
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: March 5, 2013
    Assignee: Verizon Patent and Licensing Inc.
    Inventor: John R. Feroldi
  • Patent number: 8368560
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 11, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2013
    Inventor: Walter Dea McDonald
  • Patent number: 8354942
    Abstract: A hazard warning unit for a vehicle for detecting hazards and for warning about hazards is disclosed, which hazard warning unit has a plurality of sensing units for sensing measured values, and an analysis unit for analyzing the measured values. If a hazard is detected, a hazard message is transferred to a central server which can then communicate said hazard message to other vehicles. The hazard information can also be buffered by the server.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 23, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Continental Teves AG & Co. oHG
    Inventor: Ulrich Stählin
  • Patent number: 8350682
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2009
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2013
    Assignee: Mack Trucks, Inc.
    Inventors: John C. Higgins, David Keith Troupe
  • Patent number: 8344871
    Abstract: A vehicular integrated light assembly comprises a first and second pluralities of LEDs arranged on a circuit board, and a controller electrically coupled to the first and second pluralities of LEDs. The light assembly further comprises a housing and at a lens hermetically sealing the circuit board and first and second pluralities of LEDs within the housing. The controller is operable to operate in a warning light mode in which the first plurality of LEDs emit a bright light in a first predetermined color and flash in a first predetermined sequence, and the second plurality of LEDs emit a bright light in a second predetermined color and flash in an alternating sequence from the first predetermined sequence. The controller is further operable to transition to a scene light mode in which the second plurality of LEDs emit a steady bright light in the second predetermined color to illuminate the surroundings.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2010
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2013
    Inventors: John E. McLoughlin, Neocles G. Athanasiades, Kiam Meng Toh
  • Patent number: 8305235
    Abstract: A mirror reflective element sub-assembly includes a mirror reflective element, a mirror back plate and a signal indicator. The mirror back plate includes (i) a generally planar portion and (ii) an indicator receiving portion. The indicator receiving portion has a wall structure extending at an angle from the generally planar portion adjacent to an aperture established through the mirror back plate. The signal indicator has a light source disposed at a circuit element and a housing substantially encases the circuit element therein. An electrical connector protrudes from the circuit element and is accessible at a connector portion of the housing for connecting to electrical wiring of the vehicle. The signal indicator includes an indicia element at a forward end thereof. When the light source is activated, light emitted by the light source emanates through the aperture and through the mirror reflective element and is transmitted through the indicia element.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 6, 2012
    Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith D. Foote, Niall R. Lynam
  • Patent number: 8294565
    Abstract: An automatic turn signal monitor and warning device for use with a vehicle such as a motorcycle which requires manual deactivation of the turn signals. The device monitors turn signal activation which initiates a timer, and the timer activates a warning signal to remind the operator to deactivate the turn signal when the turn signal remains activated beyond an adjustable time interval after initiation. The warning signal can be produced by one or more audible, visual, or tactile mechanisms. The vehicle's hazard lights do not activate the device's timer, and the device's timer resets when the vehicle's brakes are applied. The device can be retrofitted onto an existing vehicle or included as original equipment when a vehicle is manufactured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2009
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Inventor: Charles D. Thomas
  • Patent number: 8228177
    Abstract: An automobile security device includes an enclosing housing mounted to a roof of a vehicle. An erectable, pivoting mooring post is located within the housing. A motion control and power delivery system erects the mooring post upon activation providing power and control to devices mounted to the post. Means are provided for activating and controlling the control system. Various surveillance devices are mounted to the mooring post including a video camera, a lighting system to illuminate an area surrounding the vehicle and sound recording equipment to record sounds adjacent the vehicle. The means for activating and controlling the motion control and power delivery system includes manual controls located within the vehicle, a wireless remote control, timing systems linked to starting and turning off of the vehicle electrical system and sound and motion detectors located on the vehicle. The system is provided as original equipment and as an after market product.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2012
    Inventor: Stanley Toshio Yamada
  • Patent number: 8149136
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: December 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 3, 2012
    Assignee: Verizon Patent and Licensing Inc.
    Inventor: John R. Feroldi
  • Patent number: 8138941
    Abstract: A compact warning light employs LED lamps as a light source and has a lighthead configured for insertion into the reflector shells of a motor vehicle such as a sedan or SUV. The lighthead has a base and cover which define a sealed interior space surrounding the LED lamps. The base is constructed of heat conducting material and the LED lamps are secured to the base so that heat generated by the lamps is conducted away and dissipated by the base. The base may include a post for supporting a plurality of individually energized arrays of LED lamps. The cover may be optically clear, tinted or provided with facets or a surface texture.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Whelen Engineering Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Kevin M. Smith, Todd J. Smith
  • Patent number: 8102279
    Abstract: A mirror reflective element sub-assembly suitable for use for an exterior rearview mirror assembly of a vehicle includes a mirror reflective element and a mirror back plate having a generally planar portion and an indicator receiving portion established via a plastic injection molding operation. The indicator receiving portion includes a wall structure extending at an angle from the generally planar portion adjacent to an aperture established through the mirror back plate. A signal indication module has a light source and a housing that is at least partially received at the wall structure of the indicator receiving portion of the mirror back plate. When the light source is activated, light emitted by the light source emanates through the aperture of the mirror back plate and through the mirror reflective element at an angle relative to the generally planar portion of the mirror back plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 13, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2012
    Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith D. Foote, Niall R. Lynam
  • Patent number: 8072345
    Abstract: A device includes an electronic flare having many light emitting diodes (LEDs), an arm connected to the electronic flare, a controller connected to the electronic flare, and a housing connected to the arm. A system includes a first electronic flare device that is disposed in a first portion of a vehicle, a second electronic flare device is disposed in a second portion of the vehicle, a first sensor is connected to the first electronic flare device and a second sensor is connected to the second electronic flare device. The first and second flare devices each have a flare housing including a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs). The first electronic flare device operates to deploy when the first sensor detects a first event, and the second electronic flare device operates to deploy when the second sensor detects a second event.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 6, 2011
    Inventor: Darren Gallo
  • Patent number: 8026800
    Abstract: 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: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 27, 2011
    Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    Inventor: Mark J. Person
  • Publication number: 20110115619
    Abstract: A first embodiment 100 discloses a traffic control arm having warning lights operationally coupled to a linear actuator attached to the rear of a vehicle. The actuator is switch activated that causes the traffic control arm to move horizontally extending out from the side of the vehicle a distance equivalent to the front driver's door being fully extended, and also retract to a position centrally located at the rear of the vehicle. The warning lights are switch activated and may be used separately or in conjunction with the traffic control arm. The lights connect to a programmable lights controller that can be adjusted to perform different lighting functions. All components are powered off the 12-volt power of the vehicle. A second embodiment 300 uses a rotational actuator that replaces the linear actuator of the first embodiment 100.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 15, 2010
    Publication date: May 19, 2011
    Inventor: Stephen R. Elliott
  • Patent number: 7944371
    Abstract: A mirror reflective element sub-assembly suitable for use for an exterior rearview mirror assembly of a vehicle includes a mirror reflective element, a mirror back plate having an indicator receiving portion established thereat, and a signal indication module having a light source. The signal indication module attaches to the indicator receiving portion of the mirror back plate and the light source is activatable to emit light through the indicator receiving portion. The light source is established at a circuit element and the signal indication module includes a housing that substantially encases the circuit element therein. The circuit element has electrical terminals extending therefrom and protruding at least partially at a connector portion of the housing so as to be electrically connectable to a power source of the vehicle. The connector portion of the housing is configured to provide a plug-socket connection between the power source and the signal indication module.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 17, 2011
    Assignee: Magna Mirrors of America, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith D. Foote, Niall R. Lynam
  • Patent number: 7940166
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an emergency assistance beacon signal methodology for law enforcement, emergency and military personnel by which such personnel who encounter an imminent need for assistance or rescue while on duty in a vehicle, may utilize such methodology to invite the assistance or rescue of other such personnel. Upon a first personnel determining that assistance or rescue is needed, the first personnel activate a powerful light element attached to a such that the powerful light directs a beam of light upwardly and non-horizontally from the vehicle. Upon a second personnel recognizing the beam of light, travels to a general area of the beam of light to locate the first and provides first personnel assistance or rescue.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 10, 2011
    Inventor: Konstantinos Koliopoulos
  • Patent number: 7876208
    Abstract: The invention relates to a system for signalling and locating vehicles involved in accidents, stopped vehicles and vehicles with mechanical problems in daytime and night-time conditions as well as in adverse weather conditions. According to the invention, the occupants of the vehicle can raise the alarm without leaving the vehicle such as to avoid any physical risk. The invention comprises a case and a hinged cover housing an air container. One end of the air container is connected to a gaseous fluid outlet pipe and to a manual quick-opening non-return valve which is located in the mouth of an empty aerostatic inflatable fluorescent body. The aforementioned body is folded inside the case when not in use and is deployed in the event of a vehicle impact by means of a device comprising an inertia sensor which is activated by a deceleration force exceeding 3G and which is powered by a power source comprising batteries or accumulators belonging to the electric circuit of the vehicle or independent batteries.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 25, 2011
    Inventor: Carlos Maria Trevisi
  • Patent number: 7872572
    Abstract: Systems and methods for vehicle mounted infrared wavelength information displays for traffic camera viewers are disclosed. A method includes obtaining vehicle positioning data associated with at least one vehicle and, based upon the vehicle positioning data, selectively emitting infrared wavelength light from a set of a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged on exterior surfaces of the at least one vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Nathan J. Harrington, Harry L. Hoots, III
  • Patent number: 7832911
    Abstract: A motorcycle safety device includes a housing and a mount for coupling the housing to a motorcycle. A light assembly is removably coupled to the housing, the light assembly including a casing, a light positioned inside the casing, a lens coupled to the casing, and a battery positioned inside the casing. An input is in communication with the light to selectively cause the light to illuminate an area in front of the housing. A processor, tilt sensor, timer, and speaker are coupled to the housing, the tilt sensor and timer being in data communication with the processor. The processor includes programming to actuate at least one of the light and speaker upon the tilt sensor detecting a tilt event for a predetermined amount of time measured by the timer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 16, 2010
    Inventor: Jesse L. James
  • Publication number: 20100283598
    Abstract: A visual signal system including a signal display carried prominently on a paving machine, where it can be seen clearly by an operator of a dump truck or shuttle vehicle delivering paving material to the paving machine, as well as by other nearby personnel. Control circuits provide that a paving machine operator may separately control the display of certain signals, while other signals are automatically presented on the signal display in response to operation of paving machine functional controls.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 8, 2009
    Publication date: November 11, 2010
    Inventors: Loren J. King, Philip M. Hickman
  • Patent number: 7825790
    Abstract: A lighting subsystem and a light bar structure upon which the lighting subsystem is mounted. The lighting subsystem has a display that incorporates both warning signal lights and a programmable message display and is configured to enable the positioning of the lighting subsystem in multiple positions, including a low-profile position and a higher profile position. In one embodiment, the lighting subsystem utilizes an LED matrix display which includes interleaved message-display LEDs and warning-signal LEDs. The system may be positioned at an aerodynamic pursuit angle, and the LEDs may be oriented to maximize forward intensity of the emitted light in the pursuit position. In the low-profile position, the lighting subsystem may be retracted into a recessed compartment in the roof of an emergency vehicle. The message display may be configured to display preprogrammed messages or user-programmed messages, and may be operable by a user outside the vehicle using a remote control.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 15, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2010
    Assignee: Lonestar Inventions, LP
    Inventor: Gerald G. Tallinger
  • Patent number: 7821380
    Abstract: A warning light comprising a base member, a dome removeably connected to the base member, and at least one light module having a top and bottom surface positioned within the dome with the top surface being positioned against the inside of the top surface of said dome. A bracket member secures the warning light to the dome. The bracket includes a cross bar engaging the bottom surface of the warning light and legs extending upward from the cross bar and terminating in a foot portion which is attached to the inside of the top surface of the dome.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 20, 2007
    Date of Patent: October 26, 2010
    Assignee: Whelen Engineering Company, Inc.
    Inventor: William F. Grote, Jr.
  • Publication number: 20100265058
    Abstract: A retractable emergency signaling device adapted for use on an emergency response vehicle comprising inter alia, an electric emergency indicator, a telescoping shaft assembly, a rotatable vehicle mounting bracket, and a selectively operable actuator mechanism comprising inter alia a cord member having at least one wire integrated therein. When the present invention is mounted on an emergency response vehicle, the driver of the emergency response vehicle will be able to selectively raise and lower an emergency indicator to a level that can be easily seen even from behind the largest SUV on the road today; thereby allowing an emergency response vehicle to be seen from a greater distance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 21, 2009
    Publication date: October 21, 2010
    Inventor: Alex Aretuo
  • Patent number: 7804420
    Abstract: The present disclosure relates to an housing that reduces obstruction of the vehicle operator's ability to see through the upper portion of the windshield. Rather than a light shield constructed entirely of a opaque plastic, an interior mounted warning light assembly incorporates a visibility window above the vehicle operator's position. A cutout in the opaque casing material is fitted with a window of transparent one-way mirror material. The mirror coating faces the interior of the light assembly and acts as a shield by blocking flashback when the light assembly is activated, while simultaneously allowing the operator of the vehicle to see upwardly through it to the outside during normal vehicle operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2008
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Whelen Engineering Company, Inc.
    Inventor: John F Girouard
  • Patent number: 7791464
    Abstract: A method of providing a user controllable sign, on the trailer of a tractor-trailer rig. The tractor includes a cab and the trailer is electrically connected to the tractor by way of a jack that provides a set number of electrical connections between the tractor and the trailer. The method begins with the installation of a manual input device in the cab. This device creates a signal that can be overlaid on a jack input without disrupting the input and is electrically connected to a jack input. Also, a signal receiving unit is installed in the trailer, and is connected to a wire electrically connected to the jack input that receives the user signal from the manual input device. This unit is able to determine the presence of the signal from the manual input device. Also installed in the trailer, is a sign deployment controller that is at least in part responsive to the user signal receiving unit. Finally, a sign assembly, controlled by the sign deployment controller, is installed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 7, 2010
    Inventors: Jason Myron Giddings, Roger Giddings, Paula Marie Giddings
  • Patent number: 7782185
    Abstract: The progressive brake light apparatus sequentially lights three separate brake lights via hydraulic pressure sensing of the brake system between the master cylinder and the rear brakes. The apparatus provides a brake light assembly with the three distinctly different light sources disposed within, each of different size and different color, the brightest and largest being disposed at the top of the brake light assembly and the smallest and dimmest at the bottom of the brake light assembly. The apparatus thereby provides signal to trailing vehicles of the intensity of braking force applied, and therefore with a distinct signal of only initial brake pressure, versus average stopping, versus intense braking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Inventor: Dan M. Burns
  • Patent number: 7755475
    Abstract: A device for controlling the brake lights in a motor vehicle having a brake system, designed to be operated by outside forces, is described. The device includes a control device for actuating the brakes of the vehicle in such a manner that an automatic braking operation can be carried out as a function of the vehicle operating conditions, and at least one brake lamp which can be actuated by the control device or by a separate control unit. The control device or the control unit may be designed in such a manner that during an automatic braking operation, the brake lamp is switched on below a predefined boundary speed, as a function of a braking pressure determined in the activated brake of the vehicle, or as a function of a parameter correlating to the braking pressure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 13, 2010
    Assignee: Bayerische Motoren Werke Aktiengesellschaft
    Inventors: Thomas Toelge, Alexander Meske
  • Patent number: 7745392
    Abstract: Disclosed herein are guanidinium containing compounds consisting of a core moiety with a plurality of side chains containing guanidinium groups. Such compounds have enhanced translocation across cellular membranes and epithelial tissues. The compounds may also have a therapeutic or other biologically active moiety attached so that these moieties may be effectively transported into a cell by the guanidinium containing compound.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 21, 2006
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignee: Nitto Denko Corporation
    Inventors: Zheng Hou, Jian Liu, Lei Yu
  • Patent number: 7696865
    Abstract: An electronic message board includes a housing removably affixed to an interior surface of a selected window of a vehicle. Such housing is visible to another driver during driving conditions and includes a back wall with front and rear planar surfaces respectively and a first electrically conductive plate with a planar rear surface directly attached to the front surface of the back wall. The message board further includes a light display removably interfitted within the housing, a light emitting diode array, a transparent faceplate with predetermined indicia formed in a front surface thereof, and a mechanism for selectively actuating the light display.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2007
    Date of Patent: April 13, 2010
    Inventor: Marvin Robinson
  • Publication number: 20090256697
    Abstract: A lighting subsystem and a light bar structure upon which the lighting subsystem is mounted. The lighting subsystem has a display that incorporates both warning signal lights and a programmable message display and is configured to enable the positioning of the lighting subsystem in multiple positions, including a low-profile position and a higher profile position. In one embodiment, the lighting subsystem utilizes an LED matrix display which includes interleaved message-display LEDs and warning-signal LEDs. The system may be positioned at an aerodynamic pursuit angle, and the LEDs may be oriented to maximize forward intensity of the emitted light in the pursuit position. In the low-profile position, the lighting subsystem may be retracted into a recessed compartment in the roof of an emergency vehicle. The message display may be configured to display preprogrammed messages or user-programmed messages, and may be operable by a user outside the vehicle using a remote control.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2008
    Publication date: October 15, 2009
    Inventor: Gerald G. Tallinger
  • Patent number: 7557699
    Abstract: An indicator light assembly is provided for use with a towed object having a substantially planar rear end, at least one substantially planar side orthogonal to the end, and an intersection between the side and the end. The indicator light assembly includes a transmitting assembly and at least one tail-light assembly. The transmitting assembly transmits wireless signals corresponding to vehicular indicator light signals when coupled to an indicator light energizing circuit of the vehicle. The tail-light assembly includes a support structure, as well as an indicator light, a receiver, and a controller attached to the support structure. The support structure includes a first planar portion and a second planar portion orthogonal to the first portion, where at least one of the first and second portions includes a plurality of apertures for receiving fasteners. The receiver receives the wireless signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2006
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Inventor: Douglas H. Walton
  • Patent number: RE43800
    Abstract: A large amount of user information is transmitted with good efficiency by means of a high-speed downlink by making transmission rates of an uplink circuit and a downlink asymmetrical. The radio communication system includes a plurality of base stations, a plurality of terminals, an uplink established between each of the base stations and each of the terminals for the purpose of radio transmission of prescribed information from a terminal to a base station, and a downlink circuit established between each of the terminals and each of the base station for the purpose of radio transmission of prescribed data from a base station to a terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2012
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Toshiba
    Inventors: Mutsumu Serizawa, Nobuyasu Nakajima, Koji Ogura, Minoru Namekata, Takashi Wakutsu, Manabu Mukai