Abstract: A system for storing and playing tones operated by a turn signal comprising a memory for storing at least one predetermined audio output and a player for playing an audio signal from the memory which is activated by the turn signal.

Abstract: The present invention relates to vehicle systems for alerting operators of other vehicles, pedestrians, or passerby regarding vehicle position relative to other vehicles, and more particularly a method and apparatus for simultaneously activating both the vehicle headlights and horn when the vehicle horn is activated by the driver to alert the operator of another vehicle, a pedestrian, or passerby regarding the first vehicle's position.

Abstract: A safety alarm system for use on moving vehicles and heavy equipment provides an added level of safety by not only indicating motion, but by adding a distinct audible warning according to a selected sound pattern template when danger is imminent to those in the local area of potential danger. The sound pattern is selected on the basis of signals from various combinations of signals detected from an object detection sensor and an ambient noise level sensor, thereby providing enhanced safety in the work environment.

Abstract: Operational states of one or more operators employed in a vehicle are detected to generate operational information corresponding to the detected operational states. Also, one or more traveling states of the vehicle are detected to generate traveling information corresponding to the detected traveling states. There is provided a table storing correspondency between various operational and traveling information and various sound control information, and sound control information corresponding to generated operational or traveling information is obtained with reference to the table. Sound signal is generated on the basis of the obtained sound control information to auditorily inform a user of the vehicle of the operational or traveling state of the vehicle. Contents of the table may be changed as desired by the user. There may be provided a plurality of tables so that the user can select any one of the tables.

Abstract: A back up alarm system for a vehicle including a sensor for generating a vehicle motion status signal with a vehicle reverse gear engaged. The vehicle motion status signal includes a base electrical signal when the vehicle is stationary and the vehicle motion status signal includes a threshold electrical signal when the vehicle is moving in a reverse direction. A controller is operatively connected to the sensor and receives the vehicle motion status signal from the sensor. The controller activates a first alarm in response to the base electrical signal including at least one of an audible warning signal and a visual warning signal. In response to the threshold electrical signal, the controller activates a second alarm including at least one of an audible warning signal and a visual warning signal.

Abstract: A module with various designs of signal and safety lights incorporated with a wide range rearview mirror for the exterior sides of motor vehicles. Within the module(s), a signal light(s) and a safety light(s) of varying shapes are included. The rearview mirror cover edge for the module mounting onto is designed with a curvature bending angle of at least 128 degrees within the range of 91 degrees to 180 degrees for the flashing of the signal light(s) and illumination of the safety light(s) can be seen from the rear, the side and the front. The wide range rearview mirror is a ¼ (25%) curvature reflective mirror in combination with a ¾ (75%) flat reflective mirror. This combination mirror provides minimal distortion while allowing a widened scope of view to cover the blind spot.

Abstract: A localized accident notification system includes an accident detector that detects a crash of a vehicle and an external alert system to provide an external alert by the vehicle that can be noticed by any people in the vicinity of the crash. Upon an indication of a crash from the accident detector a controller can direct the external alert. The external alert can have special notification properties. The accident detector may only operate if the vehicle ignition is on to discriminate between a theft alarm. The accident detector can include accelerometers, air bag detectors, or tilt sensors.

Abstract: Systems and methods for a functional and ornamental vehicle accessory are provided. The vehicle accessory includes a housing and a mounting mechanism for coupling the accessory to a vehicle. The vehicle accessory can also include a light source or light conducting member. Wiring for electrically connecting the light source can be included such that the vehicle accessory can illuminate during a variety of vehicle functions. The vehicle accessory can also operate as a communication hub for the vehicle.

Abstract: A horn actuation mechanism senses a deliberate movement of a driver's hand on a side of a steering plane distant from the driver, the steering wheel plane lying crossswise a rotational axis of the steering wheel and approximating a plane bisecting a peripheral gripping region of the steering wheel. The vehicle horn is energized in response to the sensing of such movement. A hand-operational portion of the horn actuation mechanism is advantageously disposed in a position in which a hand grasping a peripheral gripping portion of the wheel can simultaneously actuate the mechanism without removal of the hand from controlled contact with the wheel.

Abstract: A communication device is provided which is intended to aid farm workers in the coordination of harvesting and hauling vehicles in the field during crop harvesting operations. This communication device consists of a transmitter and receiver which are mounted at convenient points within the harvesting vehicle and produce hauling truck respectively. The receiver contains four lighted directional arrows representing directional changes of forwards, backwards, left, and right. The transmitter contains four buttons that correspond in location and function to the directional arrows on the receiver. Thus, when a button on the transmitter is depressed by the harvester operator, the corresponding directional arrow on the receiver will light up signaling the truck driver to make a change in the position of his truck relative to the harvester.

Abstract: The invention provides traffic safety apparatus including light-to-frequency converters for monitoring the status of traffic signals and tail lights of same lane close proximity preceding vehicles and when dangerous or potentially dangerous conditions are detected, visually and/or audibly providing an alert signal to the driver. The monitored information can be real-time recorded in the drivers vehicle and if desired, transmitted by wireless to off-vehicle receivers. Recording the information in the vehicle establishes an operational history that can be important for such uses as accident reconstruction, whereas information transmitted by wireless can be recorded by entities such as law enforcement, thereby adding an additional measure of traffic safety as well as providing documentation of driving infractions.

Abstract: A vehicle-in-motion warning apparatus having one or more warning device and a light source in a housing. The warning device may be an audible, visual, or objecting-sensing device, and is mounted behind a grill which is integrally formed with the housing face. The light source is mounted in front of the housing face and covered with a removeable transparent cover. The housing may be either formed to fit a vehicle recess or alternatively formed to fit into a trailer hitch receiver. The associated wiring harness is terminated with a standard connector which allows the apparatus to be plugged into the existing vehicle wiring harness without modification, or a pigtail for splicing into the wiring harness.

Abstract: A system and method for a horn controller is provided that automatically operates a vessel's horn as a foghorn. The horn controller automatically causes the vessel's horn to sound according to the proper foghorn sounding schedule. The horn controller is designed to be installed in a new vessel, and/or to be retrofitted to an existing vessel.

Abstract: A reversing alarm for a vehicle emits an audible signal in the form of pulses of broad band sound when the vehicle is put into reverse gear. The broad band sound allows persons in the vicinity to locate the vehicle, as the human brain is able to process broad band sound to pinpoint the location of the sound source in a way which is not possible with single tone sounds. The alarm is implemented via a simple electronic circuit which uses a zener diode as a signal generator 20 to generate the broad band sound.

Abstract: An emergency signaling system with integrated load management functionality is provided wherein the load management circuitry is alternatively operable in programming and operating modes. The system includes a keypad, control head, control unit and a plurality of signaling features selectively activated by the control unit in the operating mode. The load management circuitry automatically sheds loads from the signaling system in response to an indication from the electrical system powering the signaling system that an energy drain is occurring at the energy source that will cause disruption to other more important systems—e.g., the ignition system in a vehicle.

Abstract: The present invention is directed at a volume control for an automobile turn signal indicator. The volume control allows the driver to raise or lower the volume of the clicking sound that is produced when a turn signal indicator is activated. As such, the driver is able to increase the volume of the audible clicking sound when operating in a environment having a high background noise (i.e. a radio or traffic) or when the driver is hearing impaired.

Abstract: A vehicle turn signal alarm employs a signal source which is activated to emit an alert signal in response to operation of the turn signal indication system of a vehicle for alerting the vehicle driver that the turn signal indication system is operating.

Abstract: Methods and devices for controlling the use of an automotive horn as a function of the speed, motion, vibration or acceleration of the automotive vehicle, are disclosed. The invention contemplates methods and devices for disabling the automotive horn for a certain period of time, abating the volume or noise level of the horn, or modifying the tone or sound of the horn to a tone or sound considered less offensive. In certain embodiments, the method of control includes electronic methods for controlling the horn by connection to the speedometer, accelerometer or braking system of the vehicle. Alternatively, motion sensors, vibration sensors, or acceleration sensors may be used to control the horn. The reduction in volume or modification of sound of the horn may be accompanied by flashing lights or other warning signals as a substitute for the horn.

Abstract: A safety light apparatus is provided for a trailered boat including an inboard or outboard propellered motor. The apparatus designed to be detachably mountable on a hub of the propellered motor. The apparatus preferably comprises a housing with a mounting recess, which is adapted to receive the hub, formed in a rear side thereof and a light assembly disposed on a front side of the housing. The light assembly preferably comprises a tail/brake light, which may include a back-up light, and an electrical connection assembly for electrically connecting the light assembly to a vehicle towing the trailered boat. The tail/brake light may be arranged to emit light pulses in response to application of the brake pedal of the vehicle. The safety light assembly may also comprise a back-up sensor installed on the housing which emits a warning signal upon detection of an obstruction. Preferably, the warning signal has an intensity which is dependent upon the distance between the obstruction and the back-up sensor.

Abstract: A control device for signal lights has a fully electronic flasher unit for intermittently activating the signal lights of the motor vehicle. A relay that is present in the vehicle in any case for other purposes and is likewise activated intermittently by the flasher unit is used to acoustically indicate to the driver when the signal lights are switched on. The fully electronic flasher unit is highly reliable. The relay provides the familiar acoustic feedback.

Abstract: A audible pedestrian alert system for use with vehicles having a wide turning radius such as buses and trucks. A device is disposed in the rear wheel well of the vehicle and is operatively connected to a conventional vehicle turn signal circuit including a battery and a turn signal switch operable to selectively connect the battery through a switching device to at least a first turn signal indicator lamp through a first contact point and to at least a second turn signal indicator lamp through a second contact point. The device includes a sound generating device and a timing and signal conditioning circuit operably connected to the turn signal switch for connecting the battery to the sound generating device. Upon activation of the turn signal switch, a pulsed tone is audible for a pre-determined time.

Abstract: A self-compensational automatic emergency signal device includes: an inner casing having a movable weight movable in the inner casing, an outer casing disposed on an outside of the inner casing, with the inner casing pivotally secured in the outer casing and suspending on a damping oil filled in the outer casing to allow the inner casing to always horizontally float on the outer casing, whereby upon inclination of the car either climbing upwardly or downwardly on a slope, the signal device is uninfluenced by the slope; and upon an emergency braking of the car to forwardly move the weight, a sensor provided in the inner casing will be actuated to thereby light up a warning light or to sound an alarming buzzer for warning any following car.

Abstract: A light activated back-up alarm is provided for use with a vehicle having at least one white back-up light. It includes an optical sensor for attachment to the outside lens of the vehicle back-up light and an alarm circuit and battery encased within an alarm housing. The optical sensor is adhesively attached to the light and the alarm housing adhesively attached to some other portion of the vehicle.

Abstract: A light activated back-up alarm is provided for use with a vehicle having at least one white back-up light. It includes an optical sensor for attachment to the outside lens of the vehicle back-up light and an alarm circuit and battery encased within an alarm housing. The optical sensor is adhesively attached to the light and the alarm housing adhesively attached to some other portion of the vehicle.

Abstract: A locating and alarm system for a motor vehicle comprising a housing. A securing means is for securing the housing onto a roof of the motor vehicle. Visual locating means in the housing is for visually indicating location of the motor vehicle. Audio locating means in the housing is for audibly indicating location of the motor vehicle. Visual alarm means in the housing is for visually activating an alarm when a disturbance takes place at the motor vehicle. An audible alarm means in the housing is for audibly activating an alarm when a disturbance takes place at the motor vehicle.

Abstract: A rear mounted vehicular horn is provided including a vehicle with a front extent and a rear extent. A horn is situated at the rear extent and directed rearwardly from the vehicle. The horn has a speaker for emitting a high intensity tone upon the actuation thereof. Next provided is a pair of horn switches situated within a steering wheel of the vehicle and connected to the horn. The horn switch functions to actuate the speaker of the horn upon the depression thereof thereby emitting the high intensity tone from the rear extent of the vehicle.

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.

Abstract: A vehicle key with an installed electronic system is used, for example, for wireless communication with the vehicle for controlling a vehicle locking system or a drive-away blocking system. The electronic vehicle key has a voice memory, a voice output unit, a control unit with a voice system function a radio call receiving device, a radio call information output unit and a control unit. By means of the voice system function, for example, the parking site of a vehicle can be stored in the key and can be emitted again in voice form. A key equipped with the radio call receiving function permits the transmission of radio call messages to the owner of the key.

Abstract: A light bar for mounting on an emergency vehicle has a modular construction using trays for mounting lights. The trays are integral members having cells formed therein for receiving components of light fixtures. The light bar has two lighting tiers. The lights on the lower tier are received in the cells of the trays. The tops of the trays provide a platform for mounting lights on the upper tier. Alternatively, the upper-tier lights may be mounted on the upper shell of the housing of the light bar. Snap-fit fasteners are formed on the trays for mounting components of the lights. In one configuration, the light bar includes a speaker which has a driver mounted inside the light bar housing and a horn which fits in an opening in the housing and is coupled to the driver for transmitting audio signals.

Abstract: A bicycle signalling device that may be releasably mounted on a bicycle. The signalling device includes a holder, first and second elongated flexible arms connected to and extending outward from the holder, and first and second signalling lamps mounted on the first and second arms respectively. Each of the lamps is connected to an electric power source to selectively actuate the lamps. Each of the arms is universally bendable in three mutually orthogonal directions and has sufficient rigidity to retain a configuration imparted thereto. In this way, the arms may be used to position and to hold the lamps at selected positions within a three-dimensional space.

Abstract: An electronic flasher system in which a first hazard switch is mounted on a combination switch body of a steering column together with a semiconductor switch and a flasher circuit, and a second hazard switch is mounted in a location where a person sitting on a seat other than a driver's seat can operate it. In one embodiment, an electric current detection resistor having a bimetal structure serving also as a sound source is connected to the semiconductor switch for flashing the direction indication lamps. The electric current detection resistor is welded to terminals on a module composed of the semiconductor switch and the flasher circuit, which module is mounted on the combination switch body. A protrusion is formed on the module to produce a striking sound by colliding with the electric current detection resistor.

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.

Abstract: A visual warning system for a railway vehicle, particularly a locomotive, to illuminate the tracks or the right of way (sometimes called a ditch). The system has a first lamp and a second lamp. The first lamp is driven by a first lamp driver responsive to a first pulse width modulated signal, and the second lamp driver is driven by a second lamp driver responsive to a second pulse width modulated signal. A controller produces the first and second pulse width modulated signals in which the duty cycle of the first and second pulse width modulated signals is varied between high and low levels to alternatively turn the first and second lamps approximately fully on and approximately fully off. To turn each lamp approximately fully on, the controller increases, step-wise, the duty cycle of the lamp's respective pulse width modulated signal from the low level to the high level. The system may further include a switch for operating a horn on the vehicle.

Abstract: A warning system for a vehicle in which a control circuit is actuated to turn on selected exterior lights of the vehicle when the horn switch is actuated. The control circuit includes a relay that has a first contact connected to the battery, a second contact conductively connected to the first contact when the control circuit is actuated, and a plurality of unidirectionally conductive circuits, each connected in series between the second contact and selected electric lights and polarized to be conductive in the direction to conduct operating current from the battery to those lights to turn them on when the horn switch is actuated.

Abstract: A vehicle turn signal indicator control system for left and right turn signals in which the turn signal lever has three positions, on, off and intermediate. The system has circuitry that controls the number of pulses flashed by the left or right indicator lights when the signal lever is in intermediate position and automatically returns the lever to its off position after the predetermined number of pulses have flashed.The system includes a turn signal lever, a dip switch with at least two dual position toggle switches and control circuitry for energizing the signal indicators based on the position of the turn signal lever and the toggle switches.

Abstract: Warning of engagement of a vehicle's ABS is provided by a warning sound such as a horn or pre-recorded sound. The warning sound is produced when the vehicle's speed exceeds a predetermined threshold. Alternatively, the warning sound may be adjusted to increase in volume with higher speeds. The warning sound warns drivers outside the vehicle.

Abstract: An apparatus for and a method of controlling tail lamps of a vehicles capable of giving an alarm to the driver when the door of the vehicle is opened in ON state of the tail lamps, thereby ensuring the driver to recognize the ON state of the tail lamps.

Abstract: A bicycle signalling device (1) has flexible arms (4) carrying lamps (5). The arms (4) are mounted on a holder (2) having spring clamps (3) for snap engagement with the handlebars of a bicycle. A battery within the holder (2) powers the lamps (5) operable by switches (10, 12) to indicate whichever direction the cyclist intends to turn. The arms (4) can be bent in any direction by the cyclist to hold the lamps (5) in the best signalling position.

Abstract: The Audio Illuminator is an integrated system providing directed lighting and a public address type amplification and loudspeaker capability, under control from a remote location. The system includes a searchlight and one or more directional, high-power loudspeakers. An audio amplifier supplies drive signals to the loudspeakers in response to audio input signals received from the remote control. The system includes a power junction box for supplying power to the amplifier and the searchlight and carrying signals to and from the various components. The system may derive power from a small portable diesel generator. A gimbal mount supports the searchlight for two-directional movement (horizontal rotation and vertical tilt angle rotation) and supports the one or more loudspeakers for movement with the searchlight in at least one of the two directions. Drive motors provide two-dimensional automatic positioning in response to signals from the remote control unit.

Abstract: There is provided a synchronous strobe system for synchronizing a flash rate of a plurality of strobe devices positioned along a loop of an alarm system. After the alarm system is energized and activated, a control panel of the synchronous strobe system will transmit a synchronization signal or pulse along the loop at periodic time intervals. Each synchronization signal is detected by a electronic circuit of the strobe device, including a microcontroller. Upon detection of each synchronization signal, the microcontroller determines whether to operate the strobe device in Sync required mode or Sync not required mode. For Sync required mode, the synchronization signal must be detected by the strobe device to flash a strobe light of the strobe device. Otherwise, the microcontroller waits for the next synchronization signal before attempting to flash the strobe light.

Abstract: An audible turn signal indicator system includes a turn signal selector for indicating an anticipated change in the direction of travel of a vehicle to a first direction and a second direction. The audible turn signal indicator system also includes audible directional indicator means for emitting first and second predetermined audible signals in response to an indication of an anticipated change in travel to the first and second directions, respectively. The first and second signals are audibly different in a predetermined manner such that the operator can determine the direction of the anticipated change in travel based upon the audible signals. In addition, the operator can determine which, if any, of the turn signals have been activated by monitoring the audibly different signals. The audible directional indicator means generally includes one or more speakers and an audible directional indicator controller for driving the speakers such that first and second audibly different signals are emitted thereby.

Abstract: A system and method for generating and broadcasting emergency lighting signals wherein the lights are synchronized such that when a first light is energized with a packet of short, rapid bursts, a second light begins to flash before the first light is de-energized. Control circuitry connected to the power source selectively controls the packetized energization of the light sources and includes timing circuitry for periodically energizing a first of the light sources for a first duration and for energizing a second of the light source for a second duration. The second duration overlaps, but is not coincident with the first duration in a repeating pattern such that the first and second sources are periodically energized simultaneously before the first source is de-energized.

Abstract: A vehicle locator system is integrated into the electrical system of a vehicle. When a hunter leaves the vehicle, the system is activated, preferably in response to turning the ignition key to the off position. Upon the lapse of a preset first delay, the system sounds an alarm so the hunter can audibly locate the vehicle. The alarm sounds again after a delay less than the first preset delay. The delay is preferably adjustable by the user. Bird hunters typically use a delay of less than about fifteen minutes. Coon hunters typically use a delay of at least one hour and usually two. The system preferably connects to the vehicle horn relay and periodically grounds the relay to cause the vehicle horn to honk.

Abstract: A vehicular distress alert system comprising a security flasher mechanism adapted to be coupled to a vehicle's lights and with the security flasher mechanism generating and transmitting a pulsating alert signal when electrically energized for alternately activating and de-activating the vehicle's lights, thereby transmitting a visual distress alert indication; and a switch mechanism coupled to the security flasher mechanism and adapted to be coupled to a vehicle's battery for energizing and de-energizing the security flasher mechanism.

Abstract: A signalling system is provided that is alternatively operable in programming and operating modes. The signalling system includes a keypad, control head, control unit and a plurality of signalling features selectively activated by the control unit in the operating mode. The system provides for keystrokes to the keypad placing the system in the programming mode and selecting the signalling features to be activated by the control unit in the operating mode.

Abstract: A warning device for logically controlling headlights of a motor vehicle comprising a photocoupler which picks up signal voltage from a horn and triggers an astable multivibrator via a gate-controlled circuit to output a signal voltage in a predetermined time to a monostable multivibrator which outputs a continuous time-sequencing pulses to the encoding input terminal of a decoder via the gate-controlled circuit thereby causing the decoder to produce sequential output, the sequential output being divided by a multi-input gate-controlled circuit into two output voltages which are amplified by transistors to drive two relays connected with high beam and low beam thus making the high beam and low beam to give light alternately.

Abstract: A device is disclosed for providing drivers of road vehicles with additional audible indication that the turn signal system has been selected "on" and is still operating. The "flasher" device in road vehicles is supplemented with an electronic tone-producing device connected at its accessible power terminals such that the electronic tone is audible to the driver, emitting a series of short duration tones, preceded and preferably separated by significant time delays, occurring from the initiation until the cancellation of the turn signal.

Abstract: A a three-pole toggle switch intended for mounting upon the handlebar of a motorcycle proximate one handlebar grip and wiring enabling connection to the electrical system of a motorcycle allows control of the turn indicator signals. With proper installation the wiring of the motorcycle is supplanted, and the device functions as an override control of the turn indicator system. This device is intended particularly for systems requiring constant application of pressure upon a button contact to maintain activation of a turn signal which action precludes the use of either the clutch or the front brake and control of the throttle during use of the turn signal, depending upon whether the left or right side indicator, respectively, is employed. An appropriately wired and positioned device enables the rider to activate and maintain activation of either turn indicator by positioning of the toggle without restriction to the use of either hand.

Abstract: An emergency flasher circuit for use with motor vehicles comprising an emergency switch, a signal generator for generating a signal having a frequency of approximately 10 Hz, and logic circuitry for selectively applying the signal to the headlight(s), and/or to one or both of the left and right turn indicator lights, for alerting other drivers to the presence of the motor vehicle. Alternatively, an optical shutter may be connected to the logic circuitry, and the headlight(s) or one or both of the left and right turn indicator lights for causing light generated by the headlight(s) and/or the turn indicator lights to flash at approximately 10 Hz upon activation of the horn switch, for alerting other drivers to the presence of the motor vehicle.

Abstract: A turn signal alert device adapted to be easily retrofitted on an automobile which provides an audio signal when the turn signal indicator of an automobile is activated. This device includes a time delay element which delays turning on the audio signal for a predetermined time period after the turn signal indicator has been activated. A wafer-like connector couples the device across the flasher relay of the turn signal indicator, with the prongs of the flasher relay being inserted into openings in the connector with conductive elements at the openings to make electrical contact with the prongs. The device includes an audio element which is connected electrically across the flasher relay to one side of the battery power supply and the other side of the battery power supply through the filament of a light bulb in the turn signal indicator. A delay means provides a predetermined time period between a series of audio alert signals until the manually activated switch is deactivated.