Turn Signal Patents (Class 340/475)
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Patent number: 7342487Abstract: The device automatically actuates the vehicle emergency lights when the brake pedal and one of the turn signals are simultaneously used. To do so it uses an integrated circuit that actuates a periodic pulsating signal in its outputs when a continuous signal is received in its inputs that comes from the brake pedal switch, and, at the same time, a pulsating signal from one of the turn signals. The device is especially indicated for warning that a dangerous maneuver with left or right turns is going to be performed on two-way highways, for example.Type: GrantFiled: April 5, 2002Date of Patent: March 11, 2008Inventor: Jose Maria Del Estal Villar
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Patent number: 7334922Abstract: A rearview mirror assembly of the present invention includes a circuit board disposed behind the mirror. The circuit board may be a flexible circuit board and may include an LED mounted to project light through a transparent window in the flexible circuit board and through the mirror. The flexible circuit board may function as a mirror heater and may include conductive paths for connection to the LED and/or electrodes of an electrochromic mirror. The LED may include an LED chip mounted directly on the circuit board and encapsulated thereon by an encapsulant.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2003Date of Patent: February 26, 2008Assignee: Gentex CorporationInventors: Timothy A. Bonardi, Randall J. Beute, Randall S. Braun
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Patent number: 7325953Abstract: A vehicular exterior rearview mirror system suitable for use on a vehicle includes an exterior mirror assembly adapted for mounting to a side of a vehicle and a turn signal light assembly. The mirror assembly includes a reflectance element that is moveably mounted on an actuator for providing remote positioning of the reflectance element. The light assembly is fixedly mounted in the mirror assembly separate from the reflectance element whereby movement of the reflectance element is independent of the light assembly. The light assembly comprises a light source, which comprises at least one light emitting diode that preferably emits visible light having a luminous intensity of at least about 500 mcd and a dominant wavelength of at least about 530 nm when operating, at 25 degrees Celsius, at a forward voltage of less than about 5 volts and when passing a forward current of 20 milliamps.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2004Date of Patent: February 5, 2008Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventor: Todd W. Pastrick
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Patent number: 7327321Abstract: An electromagnetic radiation assembly is described and which includes a reflector having discrete first and second surfaces; a first electromagnetic radiation emitter positioned adjacent to the first surface; and a second electromagnetic radiation emitter positioned adjacent to the second surface, and wherein, when energized, the first and second electromagnetic radiation emitters emit visibly discernible electromagnetic radiation which is reflected by the reflector in a fashion so as to be visible at locations forward of the first surface.Type: GrantFiled: June 27, 2005Date of Patent: February 5, 2008Assignee: K.W. Muth Company, Inc.Inventors: Daniel R. Todd, Daniel J. Mathieu, Allen A. Bukosky
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Patent number: 7302325Abstract: A vehicle drive assist system detects an intention of an own vehicle to turn right in an intersection and detects an oncoming vehicle waiting for a right turn on an oncoming lane in front of the own vehicle in the intersection. Further, the system establishes a detecting area in the vicinity of the right edge of the oncoming vehicle waiting and searches an oncoming vehicle traveling straight in the detecting area. When a new solid object is detected and the solid object is a part of the left corner of the solid object, the solid object is judged to be an oncoming vehicle traveling straight.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2004Date of Patent: November 27, 2007Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Shinya Kudo
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Patent number: 7301447Abstract: A motor vehicle turn signal and a method for detecting an error in the turn signal are provided. The turn signal comprises a plurality of LEDs arranged in parallel banks and receiving current from a power source. A detector coupled to each of the parallel banks provides an error message if the current in one of the banks falls outside a predetermined limit. A current sink is coupled to the power source and is configured to be activated in response to the error message. When activated, the current sink causes a change in state of the power source. In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, detection of the change in state of the power source causes the generation of an error indicator to alert the driver to a turn signal malfunction.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2005Date of Patent: November 27, 2007Assignee: GM Global Technology Operations, Inc.Inventor: Vipul M. Patel
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Patent number: 7295105Abstract: A turn indicator unit includes a light source, a matching module, and a current interrupter. The light source is coupled across an output side of a flasher. The matching module is coupled across the light source. The current interrupter is coupled between the light source and the matching module so as to interrupt periodically current flow to the matching module when the light source is activated.Type: GrantFiled: March 15, 2005Date of Patent: November 13, 2007Assignee: T.Y.C. Brother Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hsiang-Chen Wu, Ming-Shan Kuo
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Patent number: 7268693Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: February 4, 2005Date of Patent: September 11, 2007Assignee: International Truck Intellectual Property Company, LLCInventors: Joseph A. Bell, Matthew J. Gumbel
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Patent number: 7245209Abstract: A U-turn indicator for motor vehicles having a light fixture housing and a plurality of light sources located therein. The housing is divided into a U-turn indicating region and a non-U turn indicating region, and the plurality of light sources located in the U-turn indicating region are lightable separately from the plurality of light sources in the non-U turn indicating region. The light fixture housing forms a light fixture housing for one of a left and right turn signal indicator on a front and rear of a automobile. The light fixture functions as one of a left and right turn signal indicator when the plurality of light sources in both the U-turn indicating region and the non-U turn indicating region are activated, and as a U turn indicator when only the plurality of light sources in the U-turn indicating region are activated.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 2005Date of Patent: July 17, 2007Inventor: Joseph Douglas Sanicola
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Patent number: 7241037Abstract: A signal assembly is described and which includes a mirror which is operable to reflect, and pass electromagnetic radiation; a circuit substrate having a plurality of electrically conductive pathways which is borne on same; a light emitting device borne by the circuit substrate, and which, when energized, emits visibly discernable electromagnetic radiation which passes by each of the circuit substrate and the mirror; and an electrically actuated assembly, such as a heater, which may be electrically coupled with a source of electricity by way of the circuit substrate.Type: GrantFiled: March 23, 2005Date of Patent: July 10, 2007Assignee: K.W. Muth CompanyInventors: Daniel J. Mathieu, Daniel R. Todd, Allen A. Bukosky
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Patent number: 7239233Abstract: A monitoring system in kit form to retrofit to motorcycles or other vehicles that do not have self canceling turn indicators and as an aid to the hearing impaired. After the kit is installed, when the indicators are activated, the device vibrates in the operator's seat alerting the operator that the indicators are in an active state. This also allows the operator to keep his eyes on the road. Once the indicators are inactivated, the device stops vibrating. The device also is coated protect the electric motor and cables from the elements.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 2004Date of Patent: July 3, 2007Inventor: Jerome Joseph Danowski
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Patent number: 7233848Abstract: Lane changing assistant for motor vehicles, controlling an automatic changing of the vehicle to a neighboring lane in response to a command by the driver as part of a lane keeping system of the motor vehicle and having an operating element that is movable in opposite directions out of a neutral position, wherein a sensor is assigned to the operating element for each adjustment direction and the sensor supplies a multi-valued output signal which corresponds to the operation of the operating element and determines the dynamics of the lane changing procedure.Type: GrantFiled: October 9, 2002Date of Patent: June 19, 2007Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Goetz Braeuchle, Juergen Boecker
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Patent number: 7227460Abstract: A lighting device control apparatus used in a vehicle which includes a headlight for illuminating a running direction of the vehicle; a first lighting device provided at a side of an external mirror of the vehicle; a second lighting device provided at a front side of the external mirror; and a direction indicator operating device, operated by a driver of the vehicle, for indicating the running direction of the vehicle, wherein the direction indicator operating device controls at least the on/off state of the first lighting device. The apparatus has a lighting device control device for producing a daytime on-state of the second lighting device, according to an on state of the headlight and an operational position of an ignition switch of the vehicle. The second lighting device, conventionally used as a direction indicator, can be used as a daytime running light for improving the visibility in the daytime.Type: GrantFiled: January 5, 2005Date of Patent: June 5, 2007Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Hideki Kano
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Patent number: 7224266Abstract: A method to identify a person driving a vehicle and his/hers driving style, and also to switch on the vehicle either to a driving-allowing mode or to a drive-stop mode, is provided. In the method, the vehicle includes a scanner, and the driver is provided with a data-containing card or object. According to the method, the driving style information of the driver is stored on the card or object, and on starting driving the driver inserts the card or object into the vehicle scanner. Thereafter, data received from selected vehicle controls and/or data from varying information-collecting detectors is compared with information stored on the driver's driving style card, and on basis of the comparison the control unit in the vehicle either allows driving or enters a drive-stop mode.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2003Date of Patent: May 29, 2007Assignee: Taipale Telematics OyInventor: Asko Taipale
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Patent number: 7218212Abstract: A two-step control signal device is mounted on an automobile and has a turn signal, a U-turning signal and a two-step control circuit. The turn signal has base having a recess and a turn light. The turn light is mounted in the recess. The U-turn signal is mounted on the base and has a circuit board and multiple U-turn lights. The circuit board is mounted on the base and is connected electrically to the turn light. The U-turn lights are mounted electrically on the circuit board around the recess. The two-step control circuit is connected electrically to the turn signal and the U-turn signal, operates the turn signal when in a turn step and operates simultaneously the turn signal and the U-turn signal when in a U-turn step. The operating U-turn signal warns other automobiles nearby that the automobile is making a U-turn.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2005Date of Patent: May 15, 2007Inventor: Chien-Chuan Hu
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Patent number: 7205887Abstract: A turn indicator unit includes a light source, a matching module, and a first switch means. The light source includes a light-emitting diode coupled across an output side of a flasher. The matching module includes a resistor. The switch means connects selectively the resistor across the output side of the flasher when the light-emitting diode of the light source is activated.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2004Date of Patent: April 17, 2007Assignee: T.Y.C. Brother Industrial Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hsiang-Chen Wu, Ming-Shan Kuo
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Patent number: 7187274Abstract: A cylindrical open-ended soft material having (10) a vibrating apparatus to alert drivers of functionality of turn signal by way of tactile stimulation. (12) A gripping mechanism to adhere the vibrating device for turn signals in motorized vehicles to the turn signal arm in motor vehicles. Furthermore, this includes all signal indicators on the market. (14) A sensory receptor which will elicit a vibration which will alert the driver of the vehicle by way of tactile stimulation.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2005Date of Patent: March 6, 2007Inventor: Franklin D Clark
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Patent number: 7173524Abstract: An intelligent turn signal control system for turning on and off left and right turn signals in a vehicle. The system includes a computer, such as an antilock braking system computer, with programmed software operably disposed on a vehicle, and a driver interface switch assembly as input to the computer. Sensors transmit angle, differential wheel movement or related data as input to the computer, while a circuit drives turn signal indicator lamps from conditionally computed output data from the computer to turn on and off turn signals in a situation-appropriate manner. Upon turn signal indication intent data input from the driver, extensive travel and turn data is computed, including yaw rotation and steering system position to turn off or cancel the turn signal at the appropriate point.Type: GrantFiled: April 4, 2005Date of Patent: February 6, 2007Inventor: Richard L. Ponziani
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Patent number: 7167086Abstract: A U-turn signal assembly for indicating to other drivers and pedestrians that a vehicle is making a U-turn. The vehicle has a left front quarter panel, a rear window, and a turn signal handle. The U-turn signal assembly has two light assemblies, one installed on the left front quarter panel of the vehicle and the other one installed on the rear window of the vehicle. The light assemblies each have a lens, backlit by a light fixture. The lens has a plurality of lettering and arrows for uniquely signaling the U-turn. An activation switch is attached to the turn signal handle. A control panel is in communication with the activation switch and light assemblies for controlling the light assemblies.Type: GrantFiled: December 11, 2004Date of Patent: January 23, 2007Inventor: Vincent Goins
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Patent number: 7158019Abstract: An integrated LED warning and vehicle lamp according to aspects of the present invention has a base configured to directly replace an existing vehicle lamp by reception into the lamp's reflector shell. The integrated warning and vehicle lamp includes a first radial array of LEDs dedicated to producing the vehicle warning and/or illumination formerly produced by the vehicle lamp and a second radial array of LEDs dedicated to producing an emergency warning light signal. The second radial array may be electrically connected to an axial LED. The LEDs are supported by a lamp support at a location near the focus of the reflector shell. An interface electrical circuit modifies the electrical energy formerly fed to the vehicle lamp to a form appropriate for the LEDs in the first array. A warning signal electrical circuit energizes the second array of LEDs to produce the emergency warning light signal.Type: GrantFiled: August 5, 2004Date of Patent: January 2, 2007Assignee: Whelen Engineering Company, Inc.Inventor: Todd J. Smith
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Patent number: 7145449Abstract: 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: GrantFiled: May 7, 2004Date of Patent: December 5, 2006Inventor: Seong Woong Kim
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Patent number: 7140755Abstract: A security lighted exterior rearview mirror system for a vehicle comprises an exterior rearview mirror assembly adapted for mounting to a side of a vehicle. The assembly includes a reflective element and an actuator for positioning the reflective element about at least one axis. The assembly further including a floodlight comprising a light source and projecting a pattern of light from the assembly on at least an area adjacent a portion of the vehicle in order to create a lighted security zone when the assembly is mounted to the side of the vehicle and when the light source is actuated. A control system is included, including radio frequency receiving circuitry in the vehicle and a remote transmitter. The remote transmitter may be a transmitting device carried by a vehicle operator.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 2002Date of Patent: November 28, 2006Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventors: Todd W. Pastrick, Linda K. Molenkamp, Roger L. Koops
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Patent number: 7129829Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: March 4, 2004Date of Patent: October 31, 2006Inventor: Jack Sing Chiow Chan
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Patent number: 7126459Abstract: A warning device for bicycle mainly includes a magnetic and a coil mechanism. The magnetic mechanism includes a magnetic element assembly, a mounting module, and a holding module movably connected to the mounting module for holding the magnetic element assembly therein. The coil mechanism includes a housing, a coil assembly, a rectifier unit, a plurality of light-emitting elements, and a connecting module. The coil assembly, the rectifier unit, and the light-emitting elements are electrically connected to one another and then received in the housing. The mounting module of the magnetic mechanism is fixedly mounted on a fixed part of a bicycle close to a wheel thereof, and the connecting module of the coil module is fixedly connected to two spokes of the wheel, such that the magnetic element assembly and the coil assembly are located at corresponding radial positions relative to the wheel.Type: GrantFiled: October 12, 2004Date of Patent: October 24, 2006Assignee: Everlive Technologies, Co., Ltd.Inventor: Cliff Chang
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Patent number: 7119672Abstract: A turn proportioned turn signaling system for vehicles. The lamp arrays are provided signals from rotary sensors 30 from the steering column, the rack and pinion gear system, or trailer hitch mechanism that either directly affect the signaling pattern or drive a logic control unit that in turn drives the signaling pattern. The signal display panels may consist of a plurality of lamps or light emitting diodes intended to alert the surrounding people and vehicles. The display pattern selected by the logic control unit depends the magnitude and rate of turn.Type: GrantFiled: March 5, 2004Date of Patent: October 10, 2006Inventor: Ramesh Subbaraman
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Patent number: 7114836Abstract: The present invention discloses a tail light structure of a motorcycle/scooter and a motorcycle/scooter equipped with the tail light structure, which can provide a better indication of the rear indicators for safe driving. The tail light structure includes a base and a tail light, and the base can be connected to the rear cover and the fender of the motorcycle as an integrated module to improve rigidity. The base includes a first securing plate, a second securing plate and an extending plate, the extending plate including a first extending portion and a second extending portion, the front of the second securing plate being connected approximately perpendicular to the bottom of the first securing plate, and the first extending portion being perpendicularly disposed below the rear of the second securing plate. The top of the second extending portion is connected to the bottom of the first extending portion, and the second extending portion backwardly tilts at an angle to the first extending portion.Type: GrantFiled: March 7, 2003Date of Patent: October 3, 2006Assignee: Yamaha Motor R&D Taiwan Co., Ltd.Inventors: Wen-Ching Sheu, Chia-Hsien Lee
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Patent number: 7108410Abstract: An exterior rear view mirror assembly is disclosed which incorporates a warning light actuatable in conjunction with the vehicle turn signals to alert adjacent motor vehicles of an anticipated turn. The warning light is integrated into a first decorative cover member and may be connected to the vehicle turn signal circuit by way of connectable electrical leads or by an integrally formed plug and outlet arrangement. A second decorative cover member may be substituted for the first decorative cover member when it is not desired to incorporate the warning light.Type: GrantFiled: May 6, 2005Date of Patent: September 19, 2006Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems USA Inc.Inventors: Mark Stidham, Dale Gathergood, Charles Furlotte
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Patent number: 7102500Abstract: A system for automatically deactivating a turn signal displayed on a vehicle, the system including a sensor configured to measure a vehicle turn attribute, and a processing unit in communication with the sensor, wherein the processing unit deactivates the turn signal based on a comparison between the vehicle turn attribute and a predetermined data point referenced by the processing unit.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2004Date of Patent: September 5, 2006Assignee: Arachnid, Inc.Inventors: John R. Martin, Thomas P. Myers
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Patent number: 7091843Abstract: 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.Type: GrantFiled: November 5, 2002Date of Patent: August 15, 2006Inventor: Rajiv Singh Lal
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Patent number: 7083312Abstract: A lighted exterior mirror system for a vehicle comprises an exterior mirror assembly having a first portion adapted for mounting to a vehicle and an actuator disposed at a second portion. A reflective element is supported by a reflective element support member mounted to the actuator to adjust the rearward field of view of the reflective element. The assembly includes a turn signal indicator disposed adjacent to and separate from the reflective element. The turn signal indicator emits a light beam at least generally laterally and rearwardly of the vehicle when the exterior mirror assembly is mounted to a vehicle. The turn signal indicator is adjusted tandem with the reflective element by the actuator. The light beam is substantially unobservable by the driver of the vehicle and does not pass through the reflective element.Type: GrantFiled: February 2, 2004Date of Patent: August 1, 2006Assignee: Donnelly CorporationInventors: Todd W. Pastrick, Michiel P. van de Ven, Peter J. Whitehead, Rick Mousseau
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Patent number: 7080913Abstract: A mirror assembly in which the mirror housing and multi-function backing plate provide various useful functions. The multi-function backing plate supports not only a conventional reflective element but also supports a wide angle reflective element. The wide angle reflective element may be adjustable. The multi-function backing plate supports an indicator light assembly so that the mirror assembly can provide an indicator light function. The multi-function backing plate also support a recessible spot or approach lamp which, when the mirror is in an operative position, is recessed within the housing. When the mirror is in an inoperative state, the multi-function backing plate can be rotated so as to expose the spot or approach light. Various light pipe configurations enable transmission of light projected from a light source mounted to and behind the multi-function backing plate to project light through the light pipe externally to the mirror housing to provide an indicator light function.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 2002Date of Patent: July 25, 2006Assignee: Schefenacker Vision Systems USA Inc.Inventors: Paul R. Henion, James S. Sturek, Graham B. McCloy, Robert W. Gilbert, Bernard Duroux, Neil J. Francis
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Patent number: 7075423Abstract: Disclosed is a multi-function illuminating display for a motor vehicle combining an inverse function illuminating engine power indicator, a brake light, directional lights, and park lights. The segmented engine power display is fully illuminated at engine idle. Power display illumination decreases incrementally from each end as engine power increases, with minimum illumination at display center at maximum selected and adjusted power, and no illumination when power is above that point. Decreasing engine power to the maximum power point illuminates the center segments, followed by incrementally illuminating segments adjacent the center, until all segments are illuminated. Center segment illumination is of minimum intensity with increasing intensity of left and right side LEDs. The brake light inhibits power indication and illuminates the display as a brake light. Chasing directional lights have priority over the power indication and park lights, and are brighter than the park lights.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 2003Date of Patent: July 11, 2006Inventor: Joseph Edward Currie
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Patent number: 7049752Abstract: A control device of LEDs includes a lighting-up circuit and a lighting-out circuit, both of which generate pulse signals being pulse-width modulated by varying cycles and corresponding duty ratios based on an input signal during a start-up period and a falling period, respectively. The control device then provides LEDs with the electric current relative to the pulse signals. Both of the lighting-up circuit and lighting-out circuit vary the cycles and corresponding duty ratios of the pulse signals, so that a luminance variation characteristic of the LEDs becomes nonlinear, leading to being approximated to a luminance variation characteristic of an electric bulb.Type: GrantFiled: January 21, 2004Date of Patent: May 23, 2006Assignees: Anden Co., Ltd., Denso CorporationInventors: Shinji Tani, Yoshichika Abe
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Patent number: 7038580Abstract: A turn signal switch device capable of being miniaturized and of improving a degree of freedom of design is provided. First and second shafts 4a and 4b are formed in a housing 4. A first lever 5 is provided in the first shaft 4a to be rotatable and to proceed to and recede from the rotation orbit of a canceling protrusion 20. A second lever 6 is rotatably provided in the second shaft 4b. The first lever 5 and the second lever 6 are rotatably connected to each other. Furthermore, a second elastic member 8 is provided in the housing 4 together with a first elastic member 7. When an operating lever 3 is in a neutral position, the first lever 5 is maintained in the rotation neutral position by the first elastic member 7 and the second lever 6 is maintained in the rotation neutral position by the second elastic member 8.Type: GrantFiled: July 21, 2004Date of Patent: May 2, 2006Assignee: Alps Electric Co., Ltd.Inventor: Atsuo Takahashi
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Patent number: 7026919Abstract: A remote motor vehicle signal indicator system comprising a transmitter coupled to a vehicle indication signal drive line. The transmitter wirelessly transmits a receiver activation signal corresponding to a vehicle indication signal of the vehicle indication signal drive line. Optionally, the transmitter may be configured to bypass transmission of a brake signal to a remote vehicle signal indicator in order to conserve power at the remote vehicle signal indicator. The vehicle indication signal is selected may comprise a turn signal, a brake signal, a reverse gear signal, and a hazard signal or any other signal displayable on a vehicle. The system also includes a remote vehicle signal indicator coupled to a surface outside of the vehicle and includes a signal indicator display.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 2005Date of Patent: April 11, 2006Inventors: Richard I. Perlman, Steve Wald
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Patent number: 7023336Abstract: Left and right lamps or rear are connected to a stop lamp switch or a turn signal switch by left and right relays. When the turn signal switch is made ON to left and an intermittent signal is inputted from a flasher unit, a left relay is made ON by an output of a left integrating circuit and a left lamp is flashed in accordance with the intermittent signal. During the time period, an NAND circuit for inputting the intermittent signal is made H. Since a right relay is made OFF, when the stop lamp switch is made ON, a right lamp is continuously lighted. Thereafter, when the turn signal switch is made OFF, the NAND circuit is made L and the left relay is made OFF by rapidly discharging the left integrating circuit. Thereby, also the left lamp is shifted to light continuously without delay.Type: GrantFiled: May 30, 2003Date of Patent: April 4, 2006Assignee: Niles Parts Co., Ltd.Inventors: Akira Wakabayashi, Atsushi Maeda
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Patent number: 7019624Abstract: A forklift has a driving wheel capable of being steered by 360°, a steering angle detecting section for detecting a steering angle of the driving wheel, a rotary direction detecting section for detecting a rotary direction of the driving wheel, a running direction judging section for judging a running direction of the forklift based on the steering angle of the driving wheel and the rotary direction of the driving wheel. The forklift further includes a display, advancing chime and reversing buzzer for announcing the result of judgment obtained by the running direction judging section.Type: GrantFiled: April 15, 2003Date of Patent: March 28, 2006Assignee: Nippon Yusoki Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kazuhito Kawashima, Hajime Muragishi
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Patent number: 7012515Abstract: An indicator 19 having LEDs 20 is mounted on a panel 5 which is provided at the center of a steering handle 6 for monitoring the winkers. The indicator 19 indicates the battery charge amount with the lit up LEDs 20 and also the right or left turn of the vehicle when a winker switch 14 is turned on for indicating the corresponding steering direction. For right turns, the LEDs 20 are lit up incrementally in a sequence from the left to the right. As the LEDs 20 all have been lit up, they are temporarily turned off and their action in the incremental sequence is then repeated. For left turns, the LEDs 20 are lit up incrementally in order from the right. As the LEDs 20 all have been lit up, they are temporarily turned off and their incremental action from the right is then repeated.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2003Date of Patent: March 14, 2006Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Yasunori Yamamoto, Makoto Yamanaka, Yoshihiro Iijima
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Patent number: 7005978Abstract: A vehicle direction indication device is configured such that a voltage of a battery power supply is detected, and when a direction indication light switch is switched to ON, a pulse width modulated signal is output. This pulse width modulated signal is generated by pulse width modulating a flash signal for driving a direction indication light in a flashing manner with a duty ratio based upon the detected voltage of the battery power supply; the duty ratio at which the voltage of the battery power supply is high becomes smaller than that at which the voltage of the battery power supply is low. The direction indication light is then driven in the flashing manner based upon the output signal.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2003Date of Patent: February 28, 2006Assignees: Anden Co., Ltd., Denso CorporationInventors: Takahiro Takeuchi, Hirofumi Mokuya, Yoshichika Abe
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Patent number: 7002458Abstract: A vehicular turning indicator is used for automatically showing a turning degree of a vehicle. The vehicular turning indicator includes a sensor sensing a turning angle of the vehicle; a control device asserting a control signal according to the turning direction, the turning angle and optionally the speed of the vehicle; and a plurality of lightening units in communication with the control device brightening to constitute a variable pattern in response to the control signal. The vehicular turning indicator can be implemented by currently existent vehicular lamps such as indicator light, brake light or head-up display, be incorporated into an existent vehicular accessory such as rearview mirror module or auxiliary brake light module, or independently mounted to the vehicle. Preferably, special flashing effects are performed to make the turning indication prominent.Type: GrantFiled: September 2, 2003Date of Patent: February 21, 2006Assignee: Exon Science, Inc.Inventor: Wen-Wei Su
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Patent number: 6998970Abstract: A turn signal assembly for a vehicle includes a housing adapted for association with a radiator of the vehicle. A power connection is associated with the housing and is adapted to receive power. A light source is associated with the housing and is coupled with the power connection. The light source is operative to selectively provide illumination as a turn signal indication. Motorcycles including an exemplary turn signal assembly are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: April 7, 2004Date of Patent: February 14, 2006Assignee: Honda Motor Company, Ltd.Inventor: Bruno Conte
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Patent number: 6992572Abstract: A direction indicator system and associated method for cyclists, joggers and other users includes one or more direction indicating elements and a cooperating sensor structured to sense the position of the direction indicating means such that when a direction indicating element is moved out of the sensing zones, the indicator is activated, and when the direction indicating element moves within the sensing zone, it is deactivated. In one embodiment, a pair of indicators is employed and may be used to indicate direction of intended movement of a cyclist.Type: GrantFiled: October 29, 2004Date of Patent: January 31, 2006Inventor: David Lovegrove
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Patent number: 6982637Abstract: A road vehicle road vehicle direction indicator light system 1 comprises front and rear lamps 2, 4 for the nearside and front and rear lamps 6, 8 for the offside of the vehicle, a battery 10 power source connected to an ignition switch 12, a hazard warning switch 14 and a flasher control unit 16 connected to an indicator switch 18. With the exception of the flasher control unit 16 the other individual elements of the road vehicle indicator light system 1 are fairly standard. The flasher control unit 16 is electronically controlled and comprises a microprocessor having a plurality of selectable lamp flash sequences stored in a non-volatile memory. The lamp flash sequences maybe pre-programmed into the non-volatile memory. Each flash sequence is assigned a unique number within the microprocessor coding. The flasher unit 16 has a receivable input signal from the indicator switch 18. The flasher unit 16 controls the frequency of the on/off flashing of the lamps 2, 4, 6, 8.Type: GrantFiled: May 2, 2002Date of Patent: January 3, 2006Inventor: Neil Alistair Armstrong
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Patent number: 6982635Abstract: A control system is employed in a vehicle to assist a user to operate the vehicle effectively and safely. The system provides driving assistance to the user by taking into account the user's physical condition, the vehicle condition and the surrounding conditions. The surrounding conditions include, e.g., road, weather and traffic conditions, external to the vehicle. The vehicle condition concerns the conditions of the brakes, steering, tires, radiator, etc. of the vehicle. Signs of fatigue, stress and illness of the user are monitored by the control system to assess the user's physical condition.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 2001Date of Patent: January 3, 2006Assignee: American Calcar Inc.Inventor: Michael L. Obradovich
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Patent number: 6975218Abstract: An automatic turn signal deactivation system monitors and deactivates a turn signal indicator for a vehicle. A lane departure warning device compares a vehicle position with an originating roadway lane and provides a monitoring signal to a communication bus. A turn signal module activates the turn signal indicator under manual control and automatically deactivates the turn signal indicator in response to the monitoring signal when the monitoring signal received from the lane departure warning device over the communication bus indicates that a lane change maneuver is complete.Type: GrantFiled: May 19, 2003Date of Patent: December 13, 2005Assignee: Visteon Global Technologies, Inc.Inventor: Dinu Petre Madau
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Patent number: 6972675Abstract: A turn signal system includes at least one sensor detecting road markers and generating therefrom road marker signals. A turn signal deactivates in response to a control command generated by a controller. The controller receives the road marker signals, and determines at least one of whether the system is undergoing a turning condition or has completed the turning condition from the road marker signals. The controller generates the control command when the system has completed the turning condition. A redundancy system verifies the control command.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 2004Date of Patent: December 6, 2005Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Aaron L. Mills, Gerald H. Engelman, Liwen Xu, Samir Mohamad Beydoun
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Patent number: 6972674Abstract: A lighting device 1 for a vehicle comprises a lighting unit having such a structure that a light emitting unit 9 including a set of light emitting elements 9a, 9a, . . . is connected in parallel. In the case in which the breakage of the light emitting unit is detected by first breakage detecting means 10A, the generation of the breakage related to the light emitting unit is displayed by display means 11. In the case in which the generation of the breakage of at least a predetermined number of light emitting units is detected by second breakage detecting means 10B, an alarm is given by flashing a light emitting unit in which the breakage is not detected or a lighting unit including only the light emitting unit in a shorter flashing cycle than a flashing cycle obtained before the detection of the breakage.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2003Date of Patent: December 6, 2005Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.Inventor: Takeshi Ohmi
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Patent number: 6970074Abstract: A remote motor vehicle signal indicator system consists of a transmitter coupled to a vehicle indication signal drive line. The transmitter wirelessly transmits a receiver activation signal corresponding to a vehicle indication signal of the vehicle indication signal drive line. The vehicle indication signal is selected from the group consisting of a turn signal, a brake signal, a reverse gear signal, and a hazard signal. The system also includes a remote vehicle signal indicator coupled to a surface outside of the vehicle and includes a signal indicator display. The remote vehicle signal indicator receives the receiver activation signal from the transmitter and, in response, activates the signal indicator display. In some variations, a power supply not coupled to the vehicle power supply powers the remote vehicle signal indicator and the transmitter is powered by the vehicle indication signal.Type: GrantFiled: November 10, 2003Date of Patent: November 29, 2005Inventor: Richard I. Perlman
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Patent number: 6967568Abstract: The invention is a sensing and indicating device for determining the presence of a second vehicle near to a first vehicle and indicating the presence of the second vehicle. A sensor is positioned and electrically connected between the light socket and the light bulb contained within a light assembly and protected by a lens. The sensor transmits to an indicator adjacent the operator of the first vehicle, by a visual indication in the operator's sight or by an audio indicator. The sensor can be replaced, transferred to another vehicle or retrofitted to a vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2003Date of Patent: November 22, 2005Inventor: Cheryl P. Ervin
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Patent number: 6952162Abstract: A Multi-Directional Clustered Signal Light system for land vehicles is incorporated on opposing sides of a land vehicle's front and rear bumpers. The system signals the driver's intention to turn left, move forward or turn right by illuminating arrows within the cluster light. The left and right turn lighted arrows are color-coded and flash until the steering wheel is straightened upon completion of a turn. The move forward lighted arrow indication is color-coded and remains on for a period of about 0.5 minute to 1 minute. The system signals nearby drivers and pedestrians, to inform them concerning the vehicle's intended direction of movement. Safety margins are improved and accidents otherwise resulting from miscommunication between drivers are virtually eliminated. The signal light is connected using a single connector and installed as a single unit, thereby facilitating cost effective installation and replacement.Type: GrantFiled: July 24, 2003Date of Patent: October 4, 2005Inventors: Joan M. Monck, Paul Monck, Michael M. Monck