Portable Signal Patents (Class 340/473)
  • Publication number: 20120235810
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an emergency vehicle light for deploying in emergency situations wherein the light is positioned higher than the top or highest point of the vehicle. By utilizing segmented poles which can semi-automatically or automatically assemble with the light at the top of the pole, the light will be positioned for viewing at a height combining the vehicle and device height, thus able to be seen from a long distance away.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2012
    Publication date: September 20, 2012
    Inventors: Nancy Marshall McMeekin, Robert L. McMeekin, George Daniel
  • Publication number: 20120188071
    Abstract: A warning triangle has a simplified structure and is operable in accordance with the requirement of energy saving and manufactured at lower cost. The warning triangle structure includes a first board body, a second board body and a third board body, which are assembled with each other. Each of the board bodies has a first face and a second face, which together define an internal cavity. At least one light source and a light guide strip for guiding light are disposed in the cavity. The second and third board bodies are pivotally connected with movable stands for supporting the warning triangle in use. The second and third board bodies can be selectively collapsed onto the first and second faces of the first board body to minimize the volume of the warning triangle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 24, 2011
    Publication date: July 26, 2012
    Inventor: CHANG-HSIEN HO
  • 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: 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: 8009031
    Abstract: A traffic signaling device system for motorcyclists comprising a safety brake and running light assembly (34) mounted to a motorcycle jacket (88). The safety brake light has an L.E.D. housing (22) supported by an outboard support member (20) and a leather piece (18). A plurality of snap buttons (16) can be used to secure safety brake light to jacket. The safety brake light has a six-conductor coil cable assembly (12) extending outside of jacket in front thereof is connected to a control box panel (44) so that the rider can view the operation of control box panel in a convenient seated position. At one end of control box is a six-conductor cable (50) which is electrically connected thereof to the existing wiring for a tail and brake light (78), a left turn signal light (80), and a right turn signal light (81) in such vehicles. Other embodiments are described and shown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2008
    Date of Patent: August 30, 2011
    Inventors: Victor Manuel Pacheco, Chong Hui Kim
  • Publication number: 20110175719
    Abstract: A mesh lighting system for emergency vehicles and method for retrofitting a vehicle with emergency lights is disclosed. The system comprises a plurality of independent signalling light sources each supplied by a dedicated source of energy, a control module, and a low powered wireless network connecting said control module with the plurality of light sources. The plurality of independent signalling light sources emit at least one light flash in response to a control signal received from the control module.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 20, 2011
    Publication date: July 21, 2011
    Inventor: Timothy D. F. FORD
  • Patent number: 7982593
    Abstract: An alarm device of a vehicle battery for monitoring voltage ranges in charging and discharging processes of the vehicle battery uses a sampling circuit to monitor the charging and discharging voltages real time of a battery, and prompts alert through a light or a buzzer of an alert unit in accordance with the preset voltage stage in a charging and discharging process of the battery. Moreover, a connection port compatible to an external electric device for accessing and examining the defect of a malfunction battery as a reference for maintaining and updating a malfunctioned battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 1, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Lifetech Energy Inc.
    Inventor: Alan Hsu
  • Patent number: 7932817
    Abstract: A wireless warning brake light includes a third brake light with a casing installed therein with plural LEDs and a signal receiver for detecting brake signals emitted by an emitter and for activating the LEDs. The rear side of the casing of the third brake light is provided with adhesive material for gluing the third brake light on a safety helmet. A brake light is disposed with plural LEDs and an emitter. The original brake light of a vehicle is replaced with the aforementioned brake light. When the brake light is started, the emitter will be triggered to emit a brake signal that is detected by the receiver of the third brake light, warning vehicles coming from behind. Thus, the safety of motorcyclists or of the drivers of automobiles is ensured.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 26, 2011
    Inventor: James L. Chen
  • 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.
  • Patent number: 7782223
    Abstract: A light emitting diode warning device is provided capable of acting as a roadway warning flare or as a flashing warning marker the device being portable and rechargeable and presenting warning lights in the vertical direction and in the horizontal direction with the horizontal illumination being observable over 360 degrees.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Inventors: Steve Lang, Barry Siskind
  • Patent number: 7705720
    Abstract: A self leveling warning light for vehicles employing a light assembly that is pivotedly secured to an inner surface of a vehicle window by a mounting base suction cup. The light assembly has a plurality of LEDs whose intensity is amplified by a reflector and focused by an optical lens providing light emission in distances exceeding one mile with minimal battery drain. A control circuit having a power source is mounted within said light assembly and electrically coupled to the LEDs, the control circuit controlling four red LEDs separated by a centrally located yellow LED, the four red LEDs alternate on and off at sync rate of approximately 500 ms and the yellow LED turns on for about 750 ms and off for about 1 second. The light assembly maintaining directional pointing of the LEDs in a horizontal plane when the mounting base is moved between vertical and horizontal orientations by gravity weighting of the light assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 14, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 27, 2010
    Assignee: Cyalume Technologies, Inc.
    Inventor: Emil F. Jachmann
  • 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
  • Patent number: 7656284
    Abstract: A multi-purpose visual signaling device, particularly for road emergency warning and in low visibility conditions, includes light-emitting means for generating a light beam and means for supplying power to the light-emitting means. The light-emitting means include at least one laser projector adapted to project images over a substantially flat surface for such images to be visible from a relatively long distance. The light-emitting means and the power supply means are mounted onto a stationary support structure, which may include a front warning triangle-defining portion. The laser projector comprises at least one laser diode and optical and/or electronic means for generating images in space or over a substantially flat surface. The optical and/or electronic means comprise a diffractive lens. Images include monochromatic, polychromatic and/or holographic images, possibly of variable configuration, and preferably form a triangular design.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2005
    Date of Patent: February 2, 2010
    Assignee: Astron Fiamm Safety S.p.A.
    Inventors: Alessandro Dolcetta, Alberto Filosofo
  • Patent number: 7652588
    Abstract: A signalling element, which can be adapted to a light emitter, such as a lamp, the element for signalling includes an external double laminar body of plastic material, with a tronco-conical general shape extended by its larger base into a straight section and open via said larger base, housing two plastic layers of PVC and in its interior, the the external double laminar body defining a space for housing the pair of layers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 17, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 26, 2010
    Assignee: Barbolight, S.L.
    Inventor: Javier Lopez Barbarin
  • Patent number: 7642906
    Abstract: A device and system is provided for alerting or signaling a vehicle driver after the driver leaves a vehicle compartment. A signaling device, in a deployed condition, is physically located in a forward line-of-sight of a driver operator of the vehicle. The signaling device is deployed automatically in the event of the opening of a vehicle door from the inside of a vehicle compartment. Resetting of the signaling device, out of the line-of-sight, requires manual operation by the vehicle operator outside the vehicle compartment. The system ensures that the operator will be alerted to safety procedures required after activities outside vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2007
    Date of Patent: January 5, 2010
    Inventor: Matthew McMurrer
  • Patent number: 7626509
    Abstract: An easily deployable miniature, LED light unit specifically for home security yard signs that is rechargeable by means of a solar cell array having a light sensor which automatically activates the light at dusk and deactivates it at dawn. The solar light unit is contained in a unique compact molded housing that positions the components and also includes an integral clamp-mount specifically for slide-on mounting to the stakes of typical home security signs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2009
    Inventor: Lance Dean
  • Patent number: 7623026
    Abstract: A self-contained hazard marker which is easily deployed and highly visible. The hazard marker utilized an elevated collapsible illumination device which utilizes LEDs mounted to a flexible printed circuit board in a fashion that allows the circuit board to be formed into a tubular shape with the LEDs on the outer surface of the tube in a fashion that disperses the light in a 360 degree pattern. These LEDs can be illuminated in various patterns thereby producing various effects. They can produce a rotating light effect, a blinking light effect, a strobe effect and a simulated flare. The elevated illumination device is also collapsible into the body (protection chamber) of the marker in the event a vehicle is driven over the marker. The marker has a ramp shape to it that starts at ground level and extends to the top of the unit. This shape inherently prevents the unit from lateral movement when impacted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 24, 2009
    Assignee: TotalFlare, Inc.
    Inventors: Louis Martin, Jr., Jerry Laidman
  • Patent number: 7616131
    Abstract: An apparatus [100] includes an application layer [205] to present an application behavior specification and a presentation specification. An engine layer [305] receives at least one input corresponding to a proposed modification to at least one of the application behavior specification and the presentation specification. A modality interface layer [215] interprets the at least one input and merges the at least one input into an output. An interaction management layer [210] (a) receives the output; (b) determines permitted modifications to the at least one of the application behavior specification and the presentation specification based on a set of pre-defined rules; and (c) generates a new application by modifying the at least one of the application behavior specification and the presentation specification at run-time based on the permitted modifications.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2006
    Date of Patent: November 10, 2009
    Assignee: Motorola, Inc.
    Inventors: Ajit Mathews, Jiji Mathews, Steven J. Nowlan
  • Publication number: 20090261964
    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: Application
    Filed: September 7, 2006
    Publication date: October 22, 2009
    Inventor: Carlos Maria Trevisi
  • Publication number: 20090179750
    Abstract: A self leveling warning light for vehicles employing a light assembly that is pivotedly secured to an inner surface of a vehicle window by a mounting base suction cup. The light assembly has a plurality of LEDs whose intensity is amplified by a reflector and focused by an optical lens providing light emission in distances exceeding one mile with minimal battery drain. A control circuit having a power source is mounted within said light assembly and electrically coupled to the LEDs, the control circuit controlling four red LEDs separated by a centrally located yellow LED, the four red LEDs alternate on and off at sync rate of approximately 500 ms and the yellow LED turns on for about 750 ms and off for about 1 second. The light assembly maintaining directional pointing of the LEDs in a horizontal plane when the mounting base is moved between vertical and horizontal orientations by gravity weighting of the light assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 14, 2008
    Publication date: July 16, 2009
    Inventor: Emil F. Jachmann
  • Publication number: 20080224844
    Abstract: I Rhoderick Dwight Hall has invented the Mobile Safety Light as set forth in the following Abstracts. Abstract 1 is a front prospective view of the Mobile Safety Light of the present invention; Abstract 2 is a rear view panel of the Mobile Safety Light; Abstract 3 is a side view of the Off and On switch and the view of the Directonal Arrow button thereof; Abstract 4 is a front view of the L.E.D.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 12, 2007
    Publication date: September 18, 2008
    Inventors: Rhoderick Dwight Hall, Karman Monique Parham, Martressa Nicholette Hall
  • Patent number: 7425893
    Abstract: An integrated motorcycle light frame and turn indicator is provided. In one embodiment, the integrated light frame and turn siganal includes both turn-signals integrated into a headlight frame, or bezel. One feature of the present invention is that the manufacturer installed turn signal lights may be eliminated. Alternatively, the additional lights provided by the integrated light frame and turn signal assembly provided additional warning to on-coming motorists that a motorcycle rider wishes to turn. This Abstract is provided for the sole purpose of complying with the Abstract requirement rules that allow a reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the disclosure contained herein. This Abstract is submitted with the explicit understanding that it will not be used to interpret or to limit the scope or the meaning of the claims.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Inventor: Mathew Randolph Aron
  • Patent number: 7425078
    Abstract: A rotating beacon including a plurality of light emitting diodes and a plurality of reflectors is disclosed. The light emitting diodes are attached to one or more printed circuit boards mounted on a base. The reflectors gather light from the light emitting diodes into a plurality of beams which are directed away from the base. A motor and shaft assembly rotates a mirror element. The mirror element is arranged to reflect the beams into a horizontal plane of the rotating beacon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2008
    Assignee: Electronic Controls Company
    Inventors: Dean A. Wilkinson, Earl E. Esson
  • Publication number: 20080218329
    Abstract: An automobile breakdown warning sign includes a first, a second, and a third plates; one or a plurality of a set of light-emitting devices and a single chip controller being disposed on the first plate; both of the second and the third plates being each disposed with one or a plurality of a set of light-emitting devices, multiple electric connection portions, and one or a plurality of signal transmission module; all three plates being abutted to one another by their ends and electric connection portions to form a triangle frame for those light-emitting devices to become a triangle light-emitting unit; the single chip controller controlling those light emitting devices to alternatively flare while the signal transmission module sends a signal to be picked up by any following vehicle for providing early warning.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 8, 2007
    Publication date: September 11, 2008
    Inventors: Shen Hsi FAN, Jin Shan Wang
  • Patent number: 7404372
    Abstract: An emergency signaling device comprises a flexible substrate stowed in the trunk of a vehicle for extending from a folded position to an extended position, for conveying a message to motorists approaching the vehicle. The emergency signaling device may extend from the trunk of the vehicle upon activation of a remote trunk release when a hazard flasher system is on, or the like. The emergency signaling device may be removed from the vehicle for use as an emergency signaling device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 28, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2008
    Assignee: Abeo, LLC
    Inventor: A. L. Pepper Aasgaard
  • Patent number: 7388514
    Abstract: An emergency light assembly includes a flexible panel that has a first lateral edge and a second lateral edge. A first set of light emitters is mounted in the panel. The first set of light emitters is arranged in an arrow shape directed toward the first lateral edge. A second set of light emitters is mounted in the panel. The second set of light emitters is arranged in an arrow shape directed toward the second lateral edge. A control is operationally coupled to the first and second light emitters for selectively turning the first and second light emitters on or off. The control has an off setting turning each of the first and second sets of light emitters off, a first setting turning the first set of light emitters on, and a second setting turning the second set of light emitters on.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 22, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 17, 2008
    Inventor: Steven E. McDow
  • Patent number: 7385482
    Abstract: An electro-optical device includes a display section that has a display region, a plurality of sound-production bodies that are disposed to overlap the display section and produce sound, and a first frame that is disposed between the display section and the sound-production bodies and holds the display section. The first frame forms air spaces for the plurality of sound-production bodies. In the first frame, sound-guiding paths and sound-releasing holes are formed to correspond to the plurality of sound-production bodies, respectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 30, 2005
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2008
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Hiroshi Wada
  • Publication number: 20080122608
    Abstract: A signaling device for temporary use with a vehicle is provided. The signaling device includes a housing and an energy source disposed within the housing. The signaling device also includes a light emitting source in electrical communication with the energy source and a coupler attached to the housing. The coupler is adapted to releasably attach the signaling device to the exterior of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 28, 2006
    Publication date: May 29, 2008
    Applicant: PACCAR Inc
    Inventors: Lew Plummer, Steven A. Woodrich, Daniel J. Farmer
  • Patent number: 7350950
    Abstract: A safety device comprising a housing, an extendable tube located in the housing, and a light source for illuminating the extendable tube. The extendable tube is translucent and may be extended from a first position to a second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 8, 2005
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2008
    Assignee: Safe-T-Lite LLC
    Inventors: Randall F. Alder, Myles E. Davis, Donald B. Ford, William P. Long
  • Patent number: 7268693
    Abstract: Control of an accessory lighting array for temporary installation on a towed vehicle through the controller area network of a towing vehicle is effected through access to the controller area network over a bus extension, and connection of an accessory controller to the bus extension for decoding network status messages for operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 4, 2005
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2007
    Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLC
    Inventors: Joseph A. Bell, Matthew J. Gumbel
  • Patent number: 7259670
    Abstract: Sign 1 has frame 13 attaching to base 9 and supporting character plates 4. Casing 11 attaches to frame 13 and holds character plates 4 against frame 13. Light assembly 15 and base 9 backlight character plates 4. Backlight is diffusion chamber 17 sidelit by light assembly 15. Casing 11 hides access to the mount and is not easily removable. Light assembly 15 is externally powered and is activated by external messages and by low ambient light. An Emergency Alarm message causes flashing in one color and intermittent activation of sound. For non-emergency, alternate light mode is used with constant sound. Transmitter 1501 transmits messages for the sign 1. The transmitter 1501 learns emergency telephone numbers for dial detection on a telephone line, in addition to standard emergency telephone number. Emergency button 1507 can begin transmission of emergency alarm message. Transmitter 1501 may have other alarm inputs.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2007
    Assignee: Cube Investments Limited
    Inventors: James Vernon Cunningham, Michael Gomes
  • Patent number: 7224271
    Abstract: A signal assembly includes a light device connected to a light stick which has three connection hooks extending from an outer periphery thereof. A first connection assembly is mounted to the light stick and includes a first ring and a second ring connected with each other, wherein the first ring has a first flange extending outward from a first end thereof and three notches are defined through the first flange. The connection hooks are removably engaged with the three notches and hooked with the first flange by rotating the light stick relative to the first ring. By this way the light stick is able to be separated from the first connection assembly. Three leg plates are pivotably connected to the first connection assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 21, 2005
    Date of Patent: May 29, 2007
    Inventor: Shiunn-Terny Wang
  • Patent number: 7158020
    Abstract: A warning beacon includes a transparent housing, having a triangular shape suggestive of a warning sign, the housing having a front face, a back face, and side edges. A mounting plate is disposed within the housing between the front and back faces, and a plurality of LEDs are supported by the mounting plate, and oriented to provide light in at least a forward direction through the front face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 2, 2007
    Inventor: James A. Grady, Jr.
  • Patent number: 7145449
    Abstract: A turn indication system for a vehicle includes an indicating member movable between a first position and a second position in response to the actuation of a turn signal switch. A door-ajar indication system for a vehicle includes an indicating member movable between a first position and a second position in response to the actuation of a switch so as to indicate an ajar condition of a door of the vehicle. A traffic observation system for a vehicle includes a wave receiving member for mounting to the vehicle such that the wave receiving member is oriented along a line of sight from an object approaching the vehicle from a lateral direction generally perpendicular to a path of motion of the vehicle, permitting a driver of the vehicle to perceive the object via a wave received by the wave receiving member from the object along the line of sight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 7, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 5, 2006
    Inventor: Seong Woong Kim
  • Patent number: 7142103
    Abstract: A mobile signal light set is disclosed to include three warning signal bars collapsibly arranged on a base to form a light-emitting warning triangle, which base holding a dry battery and a rechargeable battery on the inside, a lamp bulb at one end, a battery charging/discharging control switch, a warning signal bar on/off switch for controlling on/off status of the LEDs of the warning signal bars, a lamp bulb on/off switch for controlling on/off status of the lamp bulb, a cable with AC adapter connector for converting city power supply into AC power supply for charging the rechargeable battery, a cable with car DC connector connectable to the socket for cigarette lighter of a car for charging the battery of the car with the battery power supply of the rechargeable battery or charging the rechargeable battery with the battery of the car subject to the control of the battery charging/discharging control switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2006
    Inventors: Chang-Hao Chen, Wu-Chun Hsu
  • Patent number: 7109885
    Abstract: A portable expandable screen for blocking passing motorists' and pedestrians' views of accidents on a roadway to prevent rubbernecking and promote traffic flow and increased highway safety. The portable expandable screen has a plurality of panels assembled in a telescoping manner like an accordion. Each panel has an outside surface, an inside surface, an inside edge, and a bottom end. A horizontal track is located on the inside surface at the bottom end of every panel. A small wheel is fixed to the inside edge at the bottom end of every panel, for allowing the small wheel of one panel to be fitted within the track of an adjacent panel. This allows the panels to slide inwardly and outwardly in a telescoping manner to block accidents from view on the roadways.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2006
    Inventor: Timothy Denlinger
  • Patent number: 7106185
    Abstract: A full function light bar is provided mountable inside a vehicle against the windshield. The light bar is an assembly of several light sources, including strobe lamps, flashing lamps, oscillating lamps, and an aimable take down lamp. The light bar is not limited in application to one specific vehicular model and is adaptable and adjustable to conform to the windshield, rear window, or other interior cab surfaces of varying shape (curvature). The light sources are supported on a flexible support mount which has adjustable, flexible gaskets. End caps and the gaskets screen the inside of the vehicle from the light emitted by the light bar. The support mount is hung on adjustable brackets which allow the light bar to be raised, lowered and tilted to further facilitate conformance with the windshield.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: Star Headlight and Lantern Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Steven W. Neufeglise
  • Patent number: 7106179
    Abstract: A deployment system for illumination devices, including: a holding mechanism for engaging at least one illumination device; and a deploying mechanism for causing the at least one illumination device to exit the system. In the preferred embodiment, the deploying mechanism is at least one solenoid, where the at least one solenoid extends to cause the illumination device to exit the system. The system allows a user or an automated system to deploy illumination devices without being exposed to dangerous conditions. For example, the system can be mounted internally or externally to a law enforcement, road crew, or utility company vehicle. The user may then deploy the illumination devices to mark the road without being subjected to the dangers of oncoming traffic.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2006
    Assignee: PowerFlare Corporation
    Inventors: Kenneth S. Dueker, Paul M. Hagelin, Troy J. Edwards, Russell E. Tavernetti
  • Patent number: 7088222
    Abstract: An illumination device, including: a shell with a plurality of sides, where the device can be positioned upon a surface or attached or suspended at any of the plurality of sides; and at least one light-emitting device within the shell, where when the device is positioned upon a surface or attached or suspended at any of the plurality of sides of the shell, light from the at least one light-emitting device emits through each of the plurality of sides of the shell. The device is thus easy to deploy and use. Its design is compatible with outsourced manufacturing, allowing for cost savings. The device can be reused many times. The device can also emit light for many hours longer and has ruggedness that far exceeds conventional devices. The device can also be used where conventional devices and other lighting devices cannot, including underwater.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 2003
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2006
    Assignee: PowerFlare Corporation
    Inventors: Kenneth S. Dueker, Paul M. Hagelin, Troy J. Edwards, Russell E. Tavernetti
  • Patent number: 7064674
    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: December 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 20, 2006
    Assignee: 911EP, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Pederson
  • Patent number: 6989743
    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: August 29, 2003
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2006
    Assignee: 911EP, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Pederson
  • Patent number: 6969185
    Abstract: A safety net that includes at least one illuminating element. The safety net is intended to be stored in a rolled-up fashion (similar to a roll-up window shade) in the trunk of a vehicle. When illuminated, the safety net provides a completely new and unique means of alerting oncoming traffic to a road hazard or other situation requiring traffic control. The safety net provides a warning means that will not be knocked over by the wind, as wind blows freely through the voids of the net. In addition, the safety net screens the scene from the view of those in oncoming traffic. The device may include a solid state controller that provides a variety of patterns or symbols to further enhance the visual safety features of the device. This can be accomplished by placing fiber optic strands in the net voids, or within the side illuminating fiber optic conduit itself. The device may also include metal cables to form a physical barrier.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 29, 2005
    Inventor: Darryl Adair
  • Patent number: 6963275
    Abstract: A flashing warning light apparatus (10) for warning motorists in oncoming traffic that an object such as a car is stopped near the highway ahead. The apparatus (10) includes a housing (24) with an array of lights (12) on the front and possibly also the rear faces. Sensors (14) front and back sense oncoming traffic. A switch (36) allows the user to cause the arrays of lights (12) to flash continuously or only when oncoming traffic is sensed. The device may be powered by the car battery through a cigarette lighter adapter (34), dry cell batteries (28) or a solar cell (44).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2003
    Date of Patent: November 8, 2005
    Assignee: NU-Tech Innovative Products, LLC
    Inventor: Bryan H. Smalls
  • Patent number: 6939021
    Abstract: A light assembly includes a generally triangular shaped housing having a front surface and a back surface opposite the front surface. The light assembly further includes at least a first light emitting device disposed in the housing configured to emit a non-flashing light from the front surface of the housing. Finally, the light assembly includes at least a second light emitting device disposed in the housing configured to emit a flashing light from the back surface of the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Honeywell International Inc.
    Inventors: Stuart Leslie, Roland Zeder
  • Patent number: 6924744
    Abstract: A Light Emitting Diode (LED) indicator that more efficiently dissipates heat generated by LEDs and other circuit components is provided. The LED indicator includes a housing and a printed circuit board contained within the housing. The printed circuit board includes first and second sides with two or more LEDs attached to the first and second sides of the printed circuit board and a regulating circuit for regulating current supplied to the LEDs. The regulating circuit includes a linear voltage regulator. The printed circuit board includes first and second thermal dissipation sections. The first thermal dissipation section is thermally connected with the two or more LEDs and the second thermal dissipation section is thermally connected with the linear voltage regulator. The housing is at least partially lined with a plurality of reflectors for reflecting light generated by the LEDs through a lens.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 2, 2005
    Assignee: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Richard A. Bohlander, Robert W. Metzger, Dwight R. Schaeffer
  • Patent number: 6917306
    Abstract: A radio linked vehicle communication system for text messaging, traffic light control, resource management and traffic monitoring, designed to establish the location of emergency vehicles and related privately owned vehicles within their vicinity and have this information relayed to a third party using conventional electronic devices. Specifically to notify the privately owned vehicle or vehicles in close proximity of an emergency vehicle of their presence, so as to avoid possible accidents and to relay this information to a third party to be recorded and verified. Additional benefits of the system would be the ability of having interrogators, either mobile, aircraft of in a fixed location that could identify and personalize specific vehicles for investigation purposes and to provide a mobile repeater system.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 23, 2003
    Date of Patent: July 12, 2005
    Inventor: Craig K. Lilja
  • Patent number: 6863424
    Abstract: Brackets received in an elongated base support both lens portions and internal light bar components. Lens portion longitudinal edges penetrate the outer portion of a gasket channel to engage a gasket member. Lens retainer straps sandwich gasket layers to seal the longitudinal butt ends of lens portions. The lens retainers also penetrate the gasket channel to engage the gasket member. The brackets provide multiple locations for mounting warning light units and related light bar components within the space defined between the base and the lens portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 7, 2003
    Date of Patent: March 8, 2005
    Assignee: Whelen Engineering Company, Inc.
    Inventor: Kevin M. Smith
  • Patent number: 6839001
    Abstract: An emergency light includes a base that is elongated and has a top surface and a bottom surface. The base has a pair of oppositely positioned side edges, the top surface has an elongated slot therein orientated generally parallel to the side edges. A light support includes a bottom section that has a lower side that has an elongated ridge thereon. The ridge is removably positionable into the slot for supporting the light support on the base in an upright manner. A strobe light is attached to the light support. A power supply is positioned in the light support and is electrically coupled to the strobe light. The power supply is electrically coupled to an electrical conduit on the ridge. A recharging station is adapted for receiving the ridge for recharging the power supply.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 9, 2002
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2005
    Inventor: Walter E. Bonin
  • Patent number: RE38795
    Abstract: The duration of variations in the potential applied to a single electrical contact, when compared to a reference potential, are measured and employed to command either incrementing or decrementing of an address. The addresses are associated with a table of instructions and an addressed instruction, when read, will produce a discrete warning signal. A desired one of several light flash or audible patterns may be selected by step-wise scrolling through the table in response to manually varying the contact potential.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2003
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2005
    Assignee: Whelen Engineering Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul C. Welling, James L. Stopa
  • Patent number: RE39594
    Abstract: A triangle road sign having a bottom rack, a left frame bar and a right frame bar respectively pivoted to two distal ends of the bottom rack and detachably coupled to each other to form a triangle rack with the bottom rack, a device for securing the triangle rack to the inside of a car, indicator lights respectively installed in the bottom rack, the left frame bar and the right frame bar and controlled to flash by a control switch at the bottom rack, a solar collector installed in the bottom rack to collect solar energy and to convert collected solar energy into electricity for the signal lights at the bottom rack, the left frame bar and the right frame bar, a battery box installed in the bottom rack and controlled by the control switch to provide the necessary working voltage to the signal lights, an alternating current adapter controlled by the control switch to convert alternating current power supply to direct current power supply for the signal lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2007
    Inventor: Chin-Keng Hsieh