Portable Signal Patents (Class 340/473)
  • Patent number: 6783266
    Abstract: A trailer hitch assembly (10) includes a frame member and a hitch receiver box (14). At least one mounting bracket (28) is carried on the frame member for securing the frame member to a vehicle. A utility light (40) is also carried on the hitch assembly (10) for lighting an area including the hitch receiving box (14).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 23, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2004
    Assignee: Cequent Towing Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard W. McCoy, Thomas W. Lindenman
  • Publication number: 20040100372
    Abstract: A convenience high-brightness breakdown alarm lamp of car comprises a base, a circuit unit, a light source, and a lampshade. The circuit unit is disposed in the base. The light source is electrically connected to the circuit unit so that the required electricity can be inputted to the light source. The lampshade is made of transparent material, and is connected with the base. The light source is received in the lampshade. The breakdown alarm lamp has a high brightness and a better alarming effect, and can be placed conveniently.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 26, 2002
    Publication date: May 27, 2004
    Inventor: Chung-Ho Yang
  • Publication number: 20040100370
    Abstract: A window cornice is designed to fasten with the external top edge of a window frame of an automotive vehicle for providing protection against the rain or sun. The window cornice is provided with at least one light-emitting device which is incorporated into the signal light system of the automotive vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 7, 2003
    Publication date: May 27, 2004
    Inventor: Hui-Pi Wu
  • Patent number: 6710710
    Abstract: A warning module for rear approaching cars aims at providing dual effects of safety and warning for passengers and the rear approaching cars. The module include a rearview mirror installed on a car door of a car to enable the passengers to see the rear approaching cars in a selected angular range and decide whether to open the car door. A warning light is also mounted onto the car door. The warning light includes a rear light face and a side light face for generating light when the car door is opened to alert the rear approaching cars, and to ensure the safety of the passengers and safe driving of the rear approaching cars.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 23, 2004
    Inventor: Ping-Shih Wang
  • 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
  • Publication number: 20040021580
    Abstract: A hazard warning device, particularly for highway use, comprising a self-contained stud (1) incorporating at least one rechargeable battery and/or capacitor to power, when deployed, at least one hazard warning light (7), and control circuitry to control inter alia activation of the light (7). In one embodiment, the hazard warning device comprises a set of self-contained, micro-processor controlled studs (1) being capable, when deployed and activated, of emitting a flashing or constant hazard warning light, and adapted, when not deployed, to be housed in a charger case (11) that is stored and transported in a vehicle, with said battery and/or capacitor being recharged from the electrical system of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 19, 2003
    Publication date: February 5, 2004
    Inventor: James Robert Higgs
  • Publication number: 20030169164
    Abstract: A signaling device can be manually operated to indicate warnings with respect to a disabled motor vehicle. The device has a portable case and an array of lights mounted at said case. The device also has a controller coupled to the plurality of lights. The device has a plurality of operating modes. In more than one of the operating modes, the controller sequentially illuminates the array of lights in a sequential pattern to provide an appearance of movement in a predetermined portion of the array of lights.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 5, 2002
    Publication date: September 11, 2003
    Inventor: Johnson Lau
  • 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: 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: 6535117
    Abstract: An improvement to the standard highway traffic warning triangles is presented which provides greater illumination and visibility for the traffic warning triangles. The new device includes an essentially flat frame having upper and lower sections. The lower section of the frame can be attached to the upper vertical flange of the base leg of the traffic triangle. This attaching is accomplished either by the use of inwardly biased lower legs, inwardly biased staggered teeth or clips. Once the illumination frame is attached to the lower leg of the safety triangle, an illumination light unit having both strobing and flashing battery powered mechanisms can be attached to the upper section of the frame. This attachment of the light is normally by the use of magnets, but the light can also be permanently bolted to the frame or attached by other methods. The improvement draws greater attention to the traffic safety warning triangle at greater distances and can be deployed 50 feet or more from the actual hazard.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventor: Bernell G. Haerer
  • Patent number: 6525668
    Abstract: An LED array warning light system comprises a plurality of struts in a generally conical configuration. Each strut has an upper and lower edge and an inner and an outer edge. A plurality of light emitting diodes are affixed one above the other to an edge of each strut. A top disk with radial slots receives and is affixed to an upper edge of an associated strut. A bottom disk has radial slots which receive and are affixed to a lower edge of an associated strut. The disks are sized whereby the LED's are at an angle of between 3 and 25 from the axis.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 10, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Assignee: TWR Lighting, Inc.
    Inventor: John T. Petrick
  • 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: 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: 6483439
    Abstract: A warning lamp, provides multi status indication by being illuminated in selected ones of a plurality of colors or by flashing a selected color or colors sequentially. The lamp has a pair of printed circuit boards disposed, one in a base and another upstanding from the base along a central axis, extending midway through the upstanding board. Around the upstanding board and coaxial therewith is a lens which is mounted in assembled relationship with the boards and the base. The upstanding board has arrays of light emitting diodes (LEDs), disposed along spaced lines which are parallel to the axis. The LEDs along different lines provide light of different color, for example, red, green and amber. The printed circuit boards provide a subassembly in which the bottom portion of the upstanding board and the other board are contained in a plastic casting disposed in a recess in the base.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2002
    Assignee: Star Headlight and Lantern Co., Inc.
    Inventor: Stephen T. Vukosic
  • Patent number: 6449889
    Abstract: A lighted display device for use with a vehicle includes a pair of transparent spaced apart panes held by a frame member having opposed side walls and a bottom wall. The upper edges of the panes define an opening for the insertion or removal of a sign member having indicia indicative of the experience level or age of a driver or other message. The display device further includes a plurality of light assemblies having a light bulb in a front portion and a magnet in a rear portion for removably attaching the device to the metallic surface of a vehicle. A spring loaded button member protrudes from each rear portion and includes a battery that energizes a respective light bulb when the button member is depressed as the rear portion is magnetically coupled to a metallic surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 17, 2002
    Inventor: Thomas G. Hottenstein
  • 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
  • Patent number: 6441943
    Abstract: A vehicle lamp assembly includes a housing and an LED lamp carried in the housing. A signal mirror, includes a mirror; and an LED lamp. The LED lamp includes a heat extraction member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Assignee: Gentex Corporation
    Inventors: John K. Roberts, Frederick T. Bauer, Joseph S. Stam, Timothy A. Bonardi, William L. Tonar, Robert R. Turnbull
  • Patent number: 6429783
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for indicating the operational status of equipment (“tools”) used in semiconductor fabrication is provided. In one embodiment, the operational status of a tool is indicated by a mechanical sign attached to the tool. The sign contains indications of multiple operational statuses of the tool. The current operational status is indicated by covering the other possible operational statuses. The sign is constructed of materials that are compatible with the semiconductor fabrication environment. In a second embodiment, the operational status of a tool is indicated by illuminating a light. Lights for indicating possible operational statuses of the tool are attached to the tool. The lights may by illuminated by depressing a switch. Alternatively, the illumination of the lights may be controlled by a computer that also controls the operation of the tool. The computer may also cause an indication of the tool's operational status to be indicated on a monitor attached to the tool.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.
    Inventors: Jose Carlos Reyes, Michael McCarthy, Joanna Ramirez, Alfredo Garcia, Jr., Kelvinoge Morrissette, Donald K. Friede
  • Patent number: 6426696
    Abstract: A brake indicator system for a vehicle that includes a stop indicator sign assembly and a stop indicator sign illuminator having an illumination source electrically connectable in connection with a brake light circuit of a vehicle such that the illumination source emits light when the brake lights of the vehicle are on and does not illuminate light when the brake lights of the vehicle are off.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 30, 2002
    Inventor: Irene M. Ortega
  • Patent number: 6409367
    Abstract: A system for coupling a warning light to a rear of a vehicle. The system includes a coupling bar for connecting the unit to a conventional tow bar deployed on the rear of the vehicle. A beacon mount is pivotally connected to the coupling bar so that it may be pivoted away from the rear of the vehicle without removing the unit from the tow bar. A warning beacon is affixed to the top of the beacon mount such that when the system is deployed, the beacon is positioned at or above the height of the vehicle. A supplemental beacon guard may be deployed adjacent to the beacon so as to prevent direct viewing of the beacon by the vehicle driver. The coupling bar comes in two designs. The first includes a pair of extensions that terminate in rear-facing lights designed to enhance visibility behind the vehicle. Corner markers may also be employed on the ends of the extensions to provide the driver with a visual identifier of the rear corners of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Inventor: Richard Pratt
  • Patent number: 6389720
    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: April 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Inventor: Chin-Keng Hsieh
  • Patent number: 6380865
    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 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: 911 Emergency Products, Inc.
    Inventor: John C. Pederson
  • Publication number: 20010054970
    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: Application
    Filed: August 21, 2001
    Publication date: December 27, 2001
    Applicant: R.D. JONES, RIGHT OF WAY, INC.
    Inventor: Richard D. Jones
  • Patent number: 6317052
    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: April 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: Whelen Engineering Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul C. Welling, James L. Stopa
  • Patent number: 6275149
    Abstract: An illuminant triangular warning arrangement includes a clothe body and a plurality of illuminating units provided on the clothe body. Each illuminating unit provides a transparent layer, a circuit board, a casing socket, a fitting washer, a photodiode (LED), a battery box, and a manual switch. With the combination of the above elements, the illuminant triangular warning arrangement is in used, its displaying area is large enough to catch other drivers attention from far away. When the illuminant triangular warning arrangement is not in used, it can be folded into a compact package, so that it would not occupy unnecessary space in the trunk of the vehicle for easy storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2001
    Inventor: Rong-Fang Tung
  • Patent number: 6268793
    Abstract: CALL ME-TELEPHONE ME is an electronic device the purpose of which is that of transmitting a telephone number and/or a message to another following vehicle. It is attached to the rear window or the rear panel of the vehicle and is composed of a luminous display. It can be switched on or off according to one's needs simply for a few seconds or for a longer period of time. The luminous display transmits the telephone number or the message which has been programmed for the device by its installer or by whoever is in possession of the device. The programming of the message is done with the keyboard of a computer or a portable phone (an alphanumerial keyboard). Whoever is behind the vehicle and fitted with the device can read the message transmitted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2001
    Inventor: Francesco Rossi
  • Patent number: 6184786
    Abstract: An unacceptable number of police, fire, ambulance and other emergency personnel are killed or injured when they pull over to the side of the road and exit their vehicle. These accidents occur when passing vehicles are not aware that an occupant is exiting the vehicle, and these passing vehicles travel too close to the stopped emergency vehicle. Inventions that automatically illuminate an open door call attention to emergency personnel responding to hostile situations involving gunfire, placing emergency personnel at risk. Safety features need to be easily disabled in order to protect the occupants as they exit an emergency vehicle in such hostile situations. This invention places blinking hazard lights in the doors of an emergency vehicle so that when any door is opened, the exposed rear facing surface of the door contains a hazard light that is selectively activated in order to blink in concert with the emergency lights on top of the emergency vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 6, 2001
    Inventor: Wayne Medeiros
  • Patent number: 6172598
    Abstract: A vehicle motion indicator having a base; a shaft rotatably attached to the base; at least one winder having a hub attached to the shaft; a motor for rotating the shaft to rotate the winder; and switch means responsive to the brake system in the vehicle, such that: (1) when the brake system is engaged, the switch means electrically connects the motor to a power supply in the vehicle to rotate the winder, and (2) when the brake system is disengaged the switch means electrically disconnects the motor from the power supply to stop rotation of the winder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Inventors: Young Lee, Jean Lee
  • Patent number: 6140934
    Abstract: Display apparatus (300) is configured to be plugged into the cigarette lighter socket of a vehicle. Display unit (305) is configured to provide a gentle display mode to enhance the driving pleasure at night. In case of emergency, switch 323 triggers the display unit to provide high intensity blinking warning light. The display unit (305) can also be configured to provide various graphic, message or data information.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 31, 2000
    Inventor: Peter Ar-Fu Lam
  • Patent number: 6137396
    Abstract: An Improved method of marking locations and obstacles in low light situations comprised of an LED, with an integral resistor to allow it to be powered from a 9 vdc source, that is connected, via the anode and the cathode, to a pair of battery terminals. These terminals allow it to be attached to a conventional 9 volt battery. The terminals are affixed to a base that the LED sits upon. The base is covered with a cap that prevents any movement of the LED.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Inventor: Paul P. Puppo
  • Patent number: 6107941
    Abstract: In order to minimize the risk to fire department and rescue vehicles as they enter into traffic, a traffic control system is provided. It includes a traffic signal assembly having a center light housing and a pair of outer light housings disposed on opposite sides thereof. The traffic control system includes a traffic sign assembly having warning information for vehicular and/or pedestrian traffic on one side thereof for mounting below the center housing of the traffic signal assembly. The traffic control system includes a solar panel to be mounted for maximizing solar energy collection in order to collect solar energy for delivery to and storage in a battery for illuminating bulbs in the housings. A sign light visually enhances the warning information on the sign.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 20, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 22, 2000
    Assignee: R. D. Jones, Right of Way, Inc.
    Inventor: Richard D. Jones
  • Patent number: 6100795
    Abstract: A trailer hitch alignment system for allowing a user to easily align a hitch of a vehicle with a trailer hitch. The inventive device includes a control that is mountable to a visor of the vehicle in view of the driver, a receiver unit attachable to the bumper of the vehicle and in communication with the control unit, a transmitter unit removably attachable to a trailer hitch that transmits a locating signal that is detectable by the receiver unit, and a storage case. Electronic circuitry within the control unit determines the position of the transmitter unit from the receiver unit from the reception of the locating signal. The control unit includes a turn right indicator and a turn left indicator for visually indicating to the user whether to turn left or right while backing toward the conventional trailer. The control unit also includes a buzzer and stop indicator light for indicating to the user when the ball hitch is positioned below the coupler of the trailer hitch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventors: Curtis W. Otterbacher, Marguerite A. Otterbacher
  • Patent number: 6100800
    Abstract: A vehicle emergency warning system which is suitable for automatic deployment. The vehicle emergency warning system includes first and second movably joined elements bearing warning indicia. The first element may be biased upwardly so as to stand upright with the second element forming a base. The vehicle emergency warning system is compact, lightweight and may be easily moved so that it may be positioned at the front, alongside or in back of the stopped vehicle and is particularly suitable for roof mounting. The vehicle emergency warning system may be folded flat and can be readily built into a compartment in the vehicle so that it may be deployed without the need for the driver or passenger to exit the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventor: Ali Sigari
  • Patent number: 6037866
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a hazard device for a vehicle in which an outwardly rotatable vertical panel attaches to the rear of the vehicle. The vertical panel can extend the entire height of the vehicle. A safety panel attaches to the vertical panel and extends to the ground. The vertical panel and safety panel provide protection to a person inspecting the vehicle. Alternatively, a portable hazard device is provided in which a plurality of foldable panel sections are connected. In the extended position, the portable hazard device has a height substantially the same as the vehicle. In the folded position, the portable hazard device can be transported in a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 14, 2000
    Inventor: Donald Leibowitz
  • Patent number: 6008732
    Abstract: Display apparatus (20) is configured to be plugged into the cigarette lighter socket of a vehicle. LEDs 37 and control circuit 36 are configured to provide a gently blinking display mode to enhance the driving pleasure at night. In case of emergency, switch 34 triggers the LEDs 34 to provide high intensity blinking warning light. Batteries (24, 25, 26) provide power to the apparatus when it is detached from the cigarette lighter socket of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Inventor: Peter Ar-Fu Lam
  • Patent number: 5929788
    Abstract: A warning beacon or a light where clusters of LED are mounted on a circuit board and emit light into a conical reflector so as to provide omni directional illumination has improved illumination intensity over its pattern of illumination by utilizing separate reflective sections each of which is preferably parabolic. Separate clusters of LEDs (light emitting devices) are arranged along circular paths (in rings) of diameter commensurate with the diameter of each section of the reflector aimed at approximately the middle thereof. The illumination is deflected radially outward from each section. The total number of LEDs which provide the illumination is increased over other arrangements thereby enhancing the brightness or intensity of illumination provided by the beacon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 27, 1999
    Assignee: Star Headlight & Lantern Co.
    Inventor: Stephen T. Vukosic
  • Patent number: 5892439
    Abstract: A vehicle warning and help apparatus and method comprising a light box electrically and removably connected to a control panel. The light box comprises a red light, yellow light, transceiver, power supply, inertial switch, and momentary contact switch. The control panel comprises a continuous yellow switch backlit when ON by a continuous yellow switch light, a three-flash yellow switch backlit when ON by a three-flash yellow switch light, a red switch backlit when ON by a red switch light, and a horn. In operation, a transmitting vehicle warning and help apparatus sends a signal on a red frequency, a yellow frequency, or both. The transmissions are received by a receiving vehicle warning and help apparatus, and the receiving vehicle warning and help apparatus sounds its horn and illuminates a combination of its continuous yellow switch light, three-flash yellow switch light and red switch light, thus communicating a condition of maximum alert, minimum alert, momentary warning, or official alert.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 6, 1999
    Inventor: Russell E. Molina Torres
  • Patent number: 5844472
    Abstract: A portable, electronic device provides base functions as an illuminated key holder, a recharging system, and an accessory light, as well as extended functions. The internal Nicad battery power supply can be recharged from a variety of sources. With the device plugged into a recharging source such as a cigarette lighter socket, a special docking mechanism interfaces with it to power or recharge a variety of electronic devices. The docking unit provides a universal adaptor to mate with several different popular socket sizes. In the best mode an audio recorder and playback device is combined with the flashlight and key chain apparatus. This enables both voice recording and playback. A map light mounting system enables the module to be held in a desired position within a vehicle to provide a mounted light source once the key ring is removed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: December 1, 1998
    Inventor: Victor Shiu P. Lee
  • Patent number: 5838247
    Abstract: A lamp comprising an array of solid state lights, using light emitting diodes (LED's) has a massed arrangement of LED lights, the number of which may exceed the capacity of the face area of the lamp, such that a high intensity of light is achieved, being accomodated within the envelope of the lamp by being positioned at an angle from the face of the lamp. In one system embodiment, as a replacement for, and using the form of an incandescent lamp, the LED lights are mounted in substantial coincidence with the shape of the incandescent lamp reflector, to provide an area of light source concentration larger than the projected area of the lamp. In another embodiment for a lamp having a circular face, such as a traffic light, the massed lights are arranged as an annular strip facing inwardly towards the polar axis of the lamp. A conical reflector directs the light outwardly, to provide the required intensity of illumination.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 1, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 17, 1998
    Inventor: Witold S. Bladowski
  • Patent number: 5831522
    Abstract: A portable visual emergency signal device for generally indicating caution and for providing a beacon to guide emergency vehicles or personnel to an emergency site. The emergency signal device is sectioned into a plurality of wedges, each wedge having a translucent faceted face and a distinct color. The emergency signal device also contains a plurality of sequentially fired lamps and at least one reflective surface cooperating with the lamps to facilitate propagation of light energy. The emergency signal device further includes a battery and an alarm cooperating with the battery to indicate a low battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1997
    Date of Patent: November 3, 1998
    Inventors: Leonard E. Weed, Ronald J. Weed, Dwight V. Call
  • Patent number: 5828299
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a car door warning system for use in a car door and warning against inadvertent opening of the car door, including: a warning device with at least one lighting device; a switch, mounted close to the handle of the car door and operated, when the handle is moved in order to open the car door; and wiring, electrically connecting the warning device with the switch; wherein moving the handle in order to open the car door causes an elecrical signal to pass through the wiring to the warning device, such that the lamp is lighted, generating an effective warning signal to prevent an accident.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 27, 1998
    Inventor: Ing-Wen Chen
  • Patent number: 5786758
    Abstract: This invention provides an improved vehicle locator system (10) combining a remote transmitting unit (20) and a vehicle mounted receiving unit (50) which actuate a light source (58) mounted on a vehicle's exterior to facilitate location of the vehicle by the operator in a crowded or dimly lit parking lot, garage, or the like. The system is also capable of selectively actuating the vehicle's horn. The receiving unit (50) includes a generally U-shaped clip (78) having a first and second facing, generally planar panels (80) & (82) adapted to engage the inner and outer faces, respectively, of a vertically adjustable, moveable vehicle window. The panels (80) & (82) are joined along a common bight (84) with the distance between the panels (80) & (82) being less than the thickness of the window to assure secure frictional engagement with the window as the clip (78) is seated over the top edge of the partially lowered vehicle window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1995
    Date of Patent: July 28, 1998
    Assignee: J.B.'s Car Finder Corporation
    Inventor: John H. Bullock
  • Patent number: 5781120
    Abstract: A moveable traffic turn indicator may be constructed with a first elongate member exhibiting a first major surface terminated by a first end, a second elongate member exhibiting a second major surface terminated, a hinge pivotably joining the second elongate member to the first elongate member, and a double acting actuator coupled between the first elongate member and the second elongate member to drive the second elongate member between a retracted position with the second major surface in juxtaposition alongside the first major surface and a deployed position with the second major surface obliquely oriented relative to the first major surface to fully expose indicia borne by the second major surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 1997
    Date of Patent: July 14, 1998
    Inventor: Michael Kucik
  • Patent number: 5751212
    Abstract: A signaling device provides a means for signaling an operator of a vehicle that the lights of that vehicle are distracting and annoying to an operator of another vehicle. The signaling device includes at least one display member having a message, such as "DIM LIGHTS", positioned thereon for conveying the message to the operator of the vehicle. The message may be constructed from a reflective or fluorescent material for enabling the lights of another vehicle to illuminate the message. The signaling device may be stored within the vehicle by attaching the signaling device to a sun visor of the vehicle with a clip. The signaling device may include a plurality of display members for conveying the message and at least one attachment member for attaching together the display members. The signaling device further includes a handle for enabling a person to manipulate the sign. The attachment members and the handle may be constructed of a flexible material for enabling the signaling device to be folded during storage.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 18, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 12, 1998
    Inventor: Craig Alan Findley
  • Patent number: 5734320
    Abstract: An emergency warning gear includes: a casing; a turning light device and a flash light device provided on an outside of the casing; a loudspeaker provided in an inner space of the casing; a microphone connectable with the loudspeaker; a radio device; and an attaching device which removably attaches the casing on a roof panel of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 6, 1995
    Date of Patent: March 31, 1998
    Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha T G E (T G E Corporation)
    Inventor: Toshihiro Suzuki
  • Patent number: 5694113
    Abstract: An emergency brake monitor including a front cover formed with an opening at an upper portion thereof, a plurality of perforations below the opening, and a circular recess at one side thereof, a ball-shaped member formed with a radial bell-shaped neck having a passage extending through a diameter thereof, a photosensor arranged within the passage of the ball-shaped member, an adjusting knob including a cylindrical rod portion extending from one side of the adjusting knob, and electrical means electrically connected with the mercury switch and the photosensor, for producing warnings when receiving signal from the photosensor, whereby the driver will be reminded to release the emergency brake before the automobile starts to move.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 2, 1997
    Inventor: Li-Teh Chen
  • Patent number: 5682150
    Abstract: A train warning device has a ladder frame with barrier sign hingedly mounted for movement by an electric motor between positions folded against the frame between the tracks and upstanding transversely from the tracks. Releasable clamping arms are mounted at the top and bottom of ladder uprights for securement thereof to track ties and enabling passage of a train thereover when folded. A signal receiver/micro computer mounted on the ladder frame controls the motor operation in response to a signal received from a hand held remote controller. A battery mounted on the ladder frame supplies power to the electric motor, signal receiver and other devices such as lamps to ensure independent operation. The barrier sign is profiled as a flagman with a sprung warning arm carrying a stroboscopic lamp. The ladder frame can be used to access the track from an elevated platform.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: October 28, 1997
    Inventor: Robert Bob Votava
  • Patent number: RE36790
    Abstract: A base adapted to be mounted on a vehicle supports a light source for generating a rotating light beam. A dome-shaped lens is positioned on the base over the light source to form an enclosure for the light source. A coating may be located on the top of the lens to prevent light passing therethrough and into the passenger compartment. Multiple flashes are created by a reflector positioned adjacent the rear portion of the lens to reflect the rotating beam as a plurality of discrete flashes within a sector relative to the base. A filter generally having a contour of the front portion of the lens may be mounted thereon. The multiple flashes may be of different colors depending on the range of wavelength of light transmitted by the lens and filter and reflected by the reflector. A person viewing the light sees at least four discrete flashes of light which may be of varying colors.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 9, 1992
    Date of Patent: July 25, 2000
    Inventors: Danny C. Jincks, Michael D. Latta