With Automatic Cancelling Patents (Class 340/476)
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Patent number: 12043170Abstract: The invention relates to a computer-implemented method for automatically deactivating the right or left turn signals of a vehicle at the end of a turn, the method comprising steps consisting in: (a) determining, as long as the right or left turn signals are on, the steering wheel angle with respect to a neutral position in which the two steered wheels of the vehicle are straight, (b) determining (108) the average angle of the steered wheels in relation to their upright position from the steering wheel angle, (d) when the left turn signals are on, automatically deactivating (120) the left turn signals when the average wheels angle exceeds, in relative value, a first positive threshold and then, still in relative value, falls below a second positive threshold, (e) failing this, keeping (118) the left turn signals on, (f) when the right turn signals are on, automatically deactivating (120) the right turn signals when the average wheels angle (A2) falls below, in relative value, a first negative threshold (?01) aType: GrantFiled: February 25, 2019Date of Patent: July 23, 2024Assignee: VOLVO TRUCK CORPORATIONInventors: Ugo Cristini, Remi Barrellon
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Patent number: 11970179Abstract: In a turn signal cancelation system for a two-wheeled vehicle, a controller is adapted to automatically cancel the turn signal of the vehicle upon: (a) a determined distance traveled by the vehicle after an occurrence of the predetermined operation of the vehicle exceeding a first distance threshold and a determined yaw angle traversed by the vehicle after the occurrence of the predetermined operation of the vehicle exceeding a yaw angle threshold; and (b) the determined distance traveled by the vehicle after the occurrence of the predetermined operation of the vehicle exceeding a second distance threshold, different from the first distance threshold, independent of the determined yaw angle traversed by the vehicle after the occurrence of the predetermined operation of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2021Date of Patent: April 30, 2024Assignee: ZERO MOTORCYCLES, INC.Inventor: Will M. Brunner
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Patent number: 11433802Abstract: The invention relates to a switch (10), in particular as a steering column switch for arrangement on a steering column of a vehicle, with an actuable switch lever (12) which has along its longitudinal axis (14) a bearing element (16) with which the switch lever (12) is mounted movably in a bearing (20) of a base housing (18), a switching element (30) which is movement-coupled to the switch lever (12) and which is embodied with a contact-free signalling element (32), wherein the switch lever (12) can be activated on a first side (34) of the bearing element (16), the switching element (30) is arranged on a second side (36) of the bearing element (16), the switching element (30) is embodied as a reversing lever with a first and a second lever arm (40, 42), the reversing lever (30) is retained in the connection region (44) of the first and second lever arm (40, 42) in a reversing bearing (46) rotatably on the base housing (18), the signalling element (32) is arranged on the first lever arm (40), and the second leType: GrantFiled: April 26, 2018Date of Patent: September 6, 2022Assignee: Valeo Schalter und Sensoren GmbHInventors: Sascha Staude, Daniela Pikart
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Patent number: 11186294Abstract: There is provided an in-vehicle timing controller, which includes a main input interface configured to receive input image data from an image processor, an input pin configured to receive a vehicle signal indicating a state of a vehicle from the vehicle, a sub image generator configured to generate sub image data based on the vehicle signal, and an image processing circuit configured to generate output image data to be displayed on a display panel based on at least one of the input image data and the sub image data.Type: GrantFiled: August 9, 2018Date of Patent: November 30, 2021Assignee: ROHM CO., LTD.Inventor: Hiroharu Endo
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Patent number: 10604065Abstract: A control system is operable within a host vehicle to control the operation of signaling apparatus indicative of a driver intent to execute right, left or U-turn actions. The control system includes a voice recognition circuit for activating turn signal devices within the vehicle. In some embodiments, a wireless link facilitates aftermarket applications while in other embodiments original equipment manufacturer is accommodated.Type: GrantFiled: August 23, 2018Date of Patent: March 31, 2020Inventor: Jewel L. Dohan
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Patent number: 10569698Abstract: A garment for cycling, having indicating lights associated with sleeves of the garment; first and second accelerometers provided on respective sleeves; and a controller configured to receive data from the accelerometers and determine from the date whether a wearer of the garment has raised an arm to indicate a maneuver. The controller is further configured to illuminate the appropriate indicating light depending on which arm has been raised, and to compare the data from the first and second accelerometers to filter out movements common to both the first and second accelerometers and determine when the sleeves are being moved independently of one another in a manner to indicate a turn.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 2018Date of Patent: February 25, 2020Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventor: Thomas Robert George Thompson
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Patent number: 10410280Abstract: A method, system, and computer readable medium for tracking mileage. The method includes obtaining global positions of a mobile device and timestamps corresponding to the global positions, and detecting, based on the global positions and the timestamps, a completed trip having global positions and timestamps. The global positions include an origin and a destination. The method further includes categorizing, from location categories, the origin into an origin location category, categorizing, from location categories, the destination into a destination location category, and categorizing, based on the origin location category and the destination location category, the completed trip into a completed trip category from trip categories. The method further includes calculating mileage based on the global positions of the completed trip, and storing, for the completed trip, the mileage and the completed trip category.Type: GrantFiled: October 2, 2017Date of Patent: September 10, 2019Assignee: Intuit Inc.Inventors: Aaron David Rogers, Talia Shereen Nour-Omid, Brian Galutira Tan, Ghanshyam Bhatt, Vidhi Shah
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Patent number: 10279731Abstract: This turn cancel signal output device is provided with: a steering angle detection unit; a first cancel pulse generation unit which, based on the steering angle detected by the steering angle detection unit, generates a first cancel pulse when the steering angle becomes a steering angle to be detected as an edge indicating the completion of a turn of a vehicle; a second cancel pulse generation unit which, based on the steering angle detected by the steering angle detection unit, generates a second cancel pulse indicating the direction of rotation of steering: and signal output terminals.Type: GrantFiled: April 3, 2015Date of Patent: May 7, 2019Assignee: Yazaki CorporationInventor: Norihito Suzuki
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Patent number: 10065504Abstract: Systems and methods are provided for training a plurality of users of a vehicle to use gestures as a short-cut for controlling vehicle functions. The methods monitor a plurality of tasks related to controlling vehicle functions completed by a unique user. For each task, the method may determine whether the task has been completed by the unique user either using a predefined gesture associated with the task, or manually, without using the predefined gesture associated with the task. For each task, the method designates the predefined gesture as being either a learned gesture or an un-learned gesture. After a predetermined time period, the method may include determining that a gesture usage history associated with the unique user includes at least one un-learned gesture. User-customized instructions that at least one un-learned gesture is available for use as a short-cut for controlling a vehicle function may be presented to the unique user.Type: GrantFiled: April 30, 2016Date of Patent: September 4, 2018Assignee: Toyota Motor Engineering & Manufacturing North America, Inc.Inventors: Yuichi Ochiai, Katsumi Nagata, Akira Sasaki
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Patent number: 9776559Abstract: In one embodiment of the vehicular display system, the drawing unit operates when the vehicle speed is within a predetermined low speed area, starts an operation thereof when the vehicle speed becomes above a lower limit of the low speed area, and stops the operation thereof when the vehicle speed exceeds an upper limit of the low speed area.Type: GrantFiled: April 6, 2016Date of Patent: October 3, 2017Assignee: KOITO MANUFACTURING CO., LTD.Inventors: Michihiko Hayakawa, Takao Muramatsu, Naoki Sugiura, Syouhei Yanagidu, Satoshi Kikuchi, Hiroaki Hara, Takayoshi Ishizuka, Hidetada Tanaka, Takeshi Masuda
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Patent number: 9743237Abstract: An apparatus and method for predicting mobility based on relative mobile characteristics are disclosed herein. The method of predicting mobility based on relative mobile characteristics includes detecting, by each of a plurality of sensor nodes of a sensor network including the plurality of sensor nodes, a change in relative location with respect to an observed node; recording, by the each of the plurality of sensor nodes, information about the detected change in relative location; generating, by the each of the plurality of sensor nodes, a mathematical model for a possibility of approach of the observed node with respect to the each of the plurality of sensor nodes using the recorded relative location change information; and predicting probabilistically, by the each of the plurality of sensor nodes, whether the observed node will approach the each of the plurality of sensor nodes using the mathematical model.Type: GrantFiled: January 2, 2015Date of Patent: August 22, 2017Assignee: Ajou University Industry-Academic Cooperation FoundationInventors: Jae Joon Lee, Jae Sung Lim
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Patent number: 9720383Abstract: An electronic timepiece enables a simple construction, and an electronic device has the electronic timepiece. A wristwatch has a button or external operating member; a controller that sets the operating mode of the wristwatch based on an input operation of the button. Based on the continuous input time that the button is operated continuously, the controller changes the operating mode between a timekeeping mode that receives a satellite signal from one or more GPS satellites and adjusts the internal time information based on time information contained in the received satellite signal; and a positioning mode that receives satellite signals from three or more GPS satellites and adjusts the internal time information based on time information and positioning information contained in the received satellite signals.Type: GrantFiled: April 14, 2016Date of Patent: August 1, 2017Assignee: Seiko Epson CorporationInventors: Katsuyuki Honda, Norimitsu Baba, Jun Matsuzaki, Toshikazu Akiyama
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Patent number: 9487129Abstract: Methods, systems and program products are provided for obtaining navigation data indicative of a present position of a vehicle and assessing lane restriction information in connection with a road lane corresponding to a present position of the vehicle as designated by the navigation data. The methods, systems and program products also activate a turn indicator of the vehicle based on the lane information and the navigation data. The methods, systems and program products collect navigation data indicative of a present position of a vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: September 5, 2014Date of Patent: November 8, 2016Assignee: LENOVO (SINGAPORE) PTE. LTD.Inventors: Nathan J. Peterson, Amy Leigh Rose, John Scott Crowe, Bryan L. Young
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Patent number: 9457753Abstract: A device for a vehicle, particularly a motor vehicle, includes an environment sensor system which has at least one environment sensor for contactlessly detecting at least one environment region, means for adjusting the environment region to be detected, and a device for determining the environment region to be detected. The device has a position sensor which detects the tilting of the vehicle in respect of a vehicle base, and the means adjust the environment region to be detected depending on the tilt of the vehicle.Type: GrantFiled: November 7, 2013Date of Patent: October 4, 2016Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Heiko Freienstein, Joerg Moennich
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Patent number: 9327635Abstract: A switch for activating the turn signals (blinkers) of a vehicle is actuated by a lever movable from a central position in opposite first and second directions to respective first and second switching positions. A first electromagnet is located such that movement of the lever to the first switching position brings a portion of the lever closer thereto. A second electromagnet is located such that movement of the lever to the second switching position brings the portion of the lever closer thereto. A control unit controls energization of the first and second electromagnets in a manner to attract and/or repel the lever to alternatively: a) hold the lever in the first switching position; b) hold the lever in the second switching position; and c) release the lever to return to the central position from the first switching position and from the second switching position.Type: GrantFiled: July 28, 2014Date of Patent: May 3, 2016Assignee: Ford Global Technologies, LLCInventors: Martin Scheck, Thomas Oeltjebruns
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Patent number: 9073480Abstract: In a turning direction indicator, a count section which counts a number of rotations in a case where an indication operation section is operated to a position indicating one turning direction and the one turning direction is displayed and where the steering wheel is rotated one time or more in the one turning direction. The counted number of rotations is stored. A determination section determines whether the stored value is a predetermined value indicating that the number of rotations is 0 in a case where the steering wheel is operated in the one turning direction and thereafter operated in another turning direction and where the steering angle becomes a predetermined angle or less. A cancellation section does not cancel display of the turning direction if the stored value is determined as being not the predetermined value, and otherwise cancels the display of the turning direction.Type: GrantFiled: November 19, 2014Date of Patent: July 7, 2015Assignee: YAZAKI CORPORATIONInventors: Yoshiyuki Mizuno, Hidehiro Akahori
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Patent number: 9041526Abstract: A directional indicator includes a momentary type turn signal lever supported to undergo a swing operation and automatically returning to a neutral position after the swing operation, a turn switch operated by the swing operation of the turn signal lever in a first zone for generating a turn signal for informing a driving direction of a vehicle and for setting an auto turn cancel mode for automatically canceling the turn signal, a manual switch operated by the swing operation of the turn signal lever in a second zone for setting a manual mode for manually canceling the turn signal, and a turn signal control section for controlling cancellation of the turn signal based on an operating state of the turn switch and the manual switch.Type: GrantFiled: December 16, 2009Date of Patent: May 26, 2015Assignee: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOKAI RIKA DENKI SEISAKUSHOInventor: Kozo Nishimura
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Publication number: 20150137964Abstract: A vehicle turn signal switch device whereby the production of knocking sounds by a cancellation pin when a steering wheel is turned in the direction of a turn signal is suppressed. A turn signal switch includes a fixed member and a movable plate. The cancellation pin, which is supported by the fixed member and the movable plate such that the cancellation pin can swing and move forward and backward relative to a cancellation cam, includes a sliding-contact surface that is in sliding contact with the fixed member. The cancellation pin is biased by a return spring in the direction of the cancellation cam and in the direction of the sliding contact of the sliding-contact surface with the fixed member.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2012Publication date: May 21, 2015Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventors: Masahiko Shimada, Masatsugu Urakawa
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Publication number: 20150035669Abstract: A switch for activating the turn signals (blinkers) of a vehicle is actuated by a lever movable from a central position in opposite first and second directions to respective first and second switching positions. A first electromagnet is located such that movement of the lever to the first switching position brings a portion of the lever closer thereto. A second electromagnet is located such that movement of the lever to the second switching position brings the portion of the lever closer thereto. A control unit controls energization of the first and second electromagnets in a manner to attract and/or repel the lever to alternatively: a) hold the lever in the first switching position; b) hold the lever in the second switching position; and c) release the lever to return to the central position from the first switching position and from the second switching position.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 28, 2014Publication date: February 5, 2015Inventors: Martin SCHECK, Thomas OELTJEBRUNS
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Publication number: 20150022336Abstract: A system for controlling a turn signal for a motor vehicle is disclosed to detect lane changes of the motor vehicle. The system includes a control device which acquires information provided by an environment sensor, and controls the turn signal as a function of a lane change status.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 22, 2014Publication date: January 22, 2015Inventor: Timo Mueller
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Publication number: 20140240119Abstract: A turn signal canceling device for a motorcycle includes a straight-ahead travel or turn determining unit for determining whether the motorcycle is travelling straight ahead or is turning and a turn signal cancellation controller which automatically cancels turn signal operation. When a vehicle speed is not greater than a predetermined speed and a driving force is at least a predetermined driving force at a time the straight-ahead travel or turn determining unit determines that the motorcycle is turning, the turn signal cancellation controller enters a standby state. When the straight-ahead travel or turn determining unit determines that the motorcycle is travelling straight ahead during the standby state, the turn signal cancellation controller automatically deactivates a turn signal. When the driving force becomes smaller than the predetermined driving force or turn signal becomes manually deactivated during the standby state, the turn signal cancellation controller returns to the normal operating state.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 20, 2014Publication date: August 28, 2014Applicant: HONDA MOTOR CO., LTD.Inventors: Takashi TETSUKA, Takashi HOTEI
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Patent number: 8754778Abstract: The present invention relates to an exit sign retrofit lighting system kit including a low profile switch mode power supply contained in internal and external enclosure and use Light Emitting Diodes with long life. The system is powered by a high energy efficient switch mode power supply with low power consumption. The height of this lighting system is very close to half of one inch or less. This kit can be used to save energy in existing Exit Sign fixtures using Tungsten filament lamps or linear fluorescent lamp or compact fluorescent lamp. This kit can be also used with Box type and Edge lit Exit Signs. The long life time of Light Emitting Diodes makes it practically maintenance free, in addition to saving considerable energy.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 2010Date of Patent: June 17, 2014Inventors: Jeffrey Winton, Joseph Nowik, Andrew Rybarski, Sri Sridharan
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Patent number: 8378805Abstract: An automatic signaling system for a vehicle having a turn signal light, includes a sensor configured for sensing at least a portion of a lane, and a processor coupled to the sensor, wherein the processor is configured to activate the turn signal light of the vehicle based at least on a signal received from the sensor. A method for activating a turn signal light of a vehicle includes sensing at least a portion of a lane in which the vehicle is traveling, and automatically activating a turn signal light of the vehicle based at least on the sensed portion of the lane.Type: GrantFiled: July 26, 2011Date of Patent: February 19, 2013Inventors: Anita Au, Gerald Chan
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Patent number: 8242898Abstract: A turn signal illumination controller monitors the lateral movement distance of a vehicle from when a turn switch lever is operated so as to illuminate a turn signal indicator. When the lateral movement distance is greater than or equal to a threshold value indicating completion of lane changing, the turn signal illumination controller cancels the turn signal indicator.Type: GrantFiled: May 27, 2010Date of Patent: August 14, 2012Assignee: Kabushiki Kaisha Tokai Rika Denki SeisakushoInventors: Takashi Ieda, Takao Imai, Kozo Nishimura, Syogo Yamaguchi, Takahiro Shimizu
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Patent number: 8094004Abstract: A multi-function turn signal arrangement for an incorporating vehicle includes a user interface having a plurality of operator specifiable signaling modes including a right-direction-signal momentary blinking mode and a left-direction-signal momentary blinking mode. A controller is configured to receive input from the user interface indicative of an operator specified direction and mode and to initiate an automated signaling routine when one of the respective momentary blinking modes is specified and the controller determines that the incorporating vehicle is traveling at a speed within a predetermined speed range. The turn signal is maintained until a steering wheel of the incorporating vehicle is turned a predetermined amount in the signified direction and returned to the neutral, straight-ahead-driving position for a predetermined period of time and the vehicle remains in the predetermined speed range.Type: GrantFiled: July 18, 2007Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: Mack Trucks, Inc.Inventors: Charles J. Groeller, Joseph Deevy
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Patent number: 7986223Abstract: An automatic signaling system for a vehicle having a turn signal light, includes a sensor configured for sensing at least a portion of a lane, and a processor coupled to the sensor, wherein the processor is configured to activate the turn signal light of the vehicle based at least on a signal received from the sensor. A method for activating a turn signal light of a vehicle includes sensing at least a portion of a lane in which the vehicle is traveling, and automatically activating a turn signal light of the vehicle based at least on the sensed portion of the lane.Type: GrantFiled: January 26, 2009Date of Patent: July 26, 2011Inventors: Anita Au, Gerald Chan
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Patent number: 7876209Abstract: An audio visual turn/hazard signaling system in a vehicle can include an electronic user-selectable sound file, a control circuitry containing a solid state relay, a sensor, and an amplifier. The signal system of the invention provides a customizable signal system including a sound file where the operator can choose the volume and frequency to play when turn signal is activated. The signal system of the invention also provides an automatic volume adjuster wherein the safety of the operator while operating a vehicle is enhanced.Type: GrantFiled: June 19, 2008Date of Patent: January 25, 2011Assignee: Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Thomas Kracker, Tony Wang, William Tobin, Derek Adelman
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Patent number: 7876210Abstract: If a turn signal switch is operated and a right-turn signal or a left-turn signal is input, a turn signal controller outputs a turn signal lamp lighting signal to a relay so as to make the turn signal lamp flash. Detection signals of an operating amount and an operating direction of a joy stick are input to a main controller, and the main controller detects a steering angle of the vehicle on the basis of the input detection signals, and outputs the steering angle to the turn signal controller. The turn signal controller determines that a course change is finished in case the input steering angle becomes smaller than a second steering angle after becoming larger than a first steering angle, and stops a turn signal lamp lighting signal on an output state so as to turn off a flashing turn signal lamp.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2008Date of Patent: January 25, 2011Assignee: Komatsu Ltd.Inventors: Masaki Tsukida, Minoru Wada
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Patent number: 7783399Abstract: A turn signal apparatus includes a heading indicator which provides a heading signal and a control circuit which provides a turn direction output signal. The turn direction output signal is chosen to indicate a turn direction in response to the heading signal and a corresponding turn direction input signal. The turn direction can be for a right turn, a left turn, or a neutral turn. A left or right turn indication can be changed to a neutral turn indication in response to the heading signal.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2004Date of Patent: August 24, 2010Inventors: Esli Kevin Young, Eric D. Ronning
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Patent number: 7756617Abstract: A portable electronic device is disclosed. The electronic device can be used inside a motor vehicle to collect and store information regarding operation of the motor vehicle. The electronic device can include a processor and a digital memory. The processor can determine miles traveled by the motor vehicle during a trip and store data representing the miles in the digital memory with a trip identifier identifying the trip. The miles traveled can be determined using data from a location sensor, such as a global positioning satellite device, that determines locations of the motor vehicle during the trip. The electronic device can also include an audio mechanism into which a user can speak information about the trip. Such audio data can be stored in the digital memory and associated with the trip identifier. Other data representing information about the trip can also be stored in the digital memory.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2005Date of Patent: July 13, 2010Inventors: Larry Allen Cluff, David LeBaron Morgan
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Publication number: 20100156621Abstract: A directional indicator includes a momentary type turn signal lever supported to undergo a swing operation and automatically returning to a neutral position after the swing operation, a turn switch operated by the swing operation of the turn signal lever in a first zone for generating a turn signal for informing a driving direction of a vehicle and for setting an auto turn cancel mode for automatically canceling the turn signal, a manual switch operated by the swing operation of the turn signal lever in a second zone for setting a manual mode for manually canceling the turn signal, and a turn signal control section for controlling cancellation of the turn signal based on an operating state of the turn switch and the manual switch.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 16, 2009Publication date: June 24, 2010Applicant: KABUSHIKI KAISHA TOKAI RIKA DENKI SEISAKUSHOInventor: Kozo NISHIMURA
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Patent number: 7663477Abstract: In a turn signal control device for a vehicle having an automatic canceling function, a switch operating element is carried on a pivot shaft mounted in a fixed switch case so that the switch operating element can be returned and pushed-in between a returned position and a pushed-in position. The switch operating element is swingable at the returned position between a neutral position and a left-turn indicating position and a right-turn indicating position. The switch operating element is pushed-in to the pushed-in position by push-in operation at the returned position. The switch operating element is resiliently urged toward the neutral position and there turned position. A winker switch is operatively connected to the switch operating element so as to break the connection of a left-turn indicating means or a right-turn indicating means to a flasher unit in response to push-in of the switch operating element to the pushed-in position.Type: GrantFiled: December 6, 2007Date of Patent: February 16, 2010Assignees: Toyo Denso Co., Ltd., Honda Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Kazuma Shimizu, Takashi Nakamura, Tsutomu Tozuka, Yoshiaki Takeuchi
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Publication number: 20100013624Abstract: A multi-function turn signal arrangement for an incorporating vehicle includes a user interface having a plurality of operator specifiable signaling modes including a right-direction-signal momentary blinking mode and a left-direction-signal momentary blinking mode. A controller is configured to receive input from the user interface indicative of an operator specified direction and mode and to initiate an automated signaling routine when one of the respective momentary blinking modes is specified and the controller determines that the incorporating vehicle is traveling at a speed within a predetermined speed range. The turn signal is maintained until a steering wheel of the incorporating vehicle is turned a predetermined amount in the signified direction and returned to the neutral, straight-ahead-driving position for a predetermined period of time and the vehicle remains in the predetermined speed range.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 18, 2007Publication date: January 21, 2010Applicant: Mack Trucks, IncInventors: Charles J. Groeller, Joseph Deevy
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Patent number: 7589623Abstract: A signal apparatus for a vehicle having at least one input at which signals are received from components associated with the vehicle. The received signals comprise an indication demand signal initiated by a driver of the vehicle and a lane detection signal produced by a lane detection apparatus indicative of the position of the vehicle relative to a lane of a highway. A processing means is arranged to produce an indication signal that is dependent upon both the indication demand signal and the lane detection signal.Type: GrantFiled: October 17, 2005Date of Patent: September 15, 2009Assignee: TRW LimitedInventor: Andrew Oghenovo Oyaide
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Publication number: 20090045935Abstract: If a turn signal switch is operated and a right-turn signal or a left-turn signal is input, a turn signal controller outputs a turn signal lamp lighting signal to a relay so as to make the turn signal lamp flash. Detection signals of an operating amount and an operating direction of a joy stick are input to a main controller, and the main controller detects a steering angle of the vehicle on the basis of the input detection signals, and outputs the steering angle to the turn signal controller. The turn signal controller determines that a course change is finished in case the input steering angle becomes smaller than a second steering angle after becoming larger than a first steering angle, and stops a turn signal lamp lighting signal on an output state so as to turn off a flashing turn signal lamp.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 16, 2008Publication date: February 19, 2009Applicant: Komatsu Ltd.Inventors: Masaki Tsukida, Minoru Wada
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Publication number: 20090027186Abstract: A motor vehicle turn signal cancelling device operated by a turn signal cancelling member projecting from the steering wheel includes a frame structure and a mounting member attached thereto. A fixture having a central portion positioned between oppositely extending first and second arms is pivotally mounted to the mounting member at the central portion to move the first and second arms into the path of movement of the cancelling member. The device further includes a turn signal activating lever pivotally mounted between its ends to the frame structure. A cancellation arm is pivotally mounted to the mounting member and defines a slot near its distal end. An engagement post associated with the lever is received in the slot defined in the cancellation arm. The engagement post and the slot are positioned between the pivotal axis of the turn signal activating lever and the pivotal axis of the cancellation arm.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 26, 2007Publication date: January 29, 2009Inventors: Thomas DeWitt, III, Gary Dean Smith
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Patent number: 7482916Abstract: An automatic signaling system includes a processor having an input for receiving a signal from a sensor, and an output configured to be coupled to a signaling system of a vehicle, the signaling system having a turn signal light, wherein the processor is configured to automatically activate the turn signal light based at least in part on the signal received from the sensor. A method for activating a turn signal light of a vehicle includes receiving a signal from a sensor, and automatically activating the turn signal light of the vehicle based at least in part on the received signal.Type: GrantFiled: January 28, 2005Date of Patent: January 27, 2009Inventors: Anita Au, Gerald Chan
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Publication number: 20080204212Abstract: In a method and a device for driver support, a directional indicator, e.g., the blinker of the vehicle, is actuated when there is a recognized lane change and a lane-change intention is present.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 17, 2005Publication date: August 28, 2008Inventors: Ruediger Jordan, Carsten Schmitz, Andreas Josef Birnesser
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Patent number: 7408455Abstract: 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: January 19, 2007Date of Patent: August 5, 2008Inventor: Richard L. Ponziani
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Publication number: 20080164991Abstract: In a turn signal control device for a vehicle having an automatic canceling function, a switch operating element is carried on a pivot shaft mounted in a fixed switch case so that the switch operating element can be returned and pushed-in between a returned position and a pushed-in position. The switch operating element is swingable at the returned position between a neutral position and a left-turn indicating position and a right-turn indicating position. The switch operating element is pushed-in to the pushed-in position by push-in operation at the returned position. The switch operating element is resiliently urged toward the neutral position and there turned position. A winker switch is operatively connected to the switch operating element so as to break the connection of a left-turn indicating means or a right-turn indicating means to a flasher unit in response to push-in of the switch operating element to the pushed-in position.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 6, 2007Publication date: July 10, 2008Inventors: Kazuma Shimizu, Takashi Nakamura, Tsutomu Tozuka, Yoshiaki Takeuchi
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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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Publication number: 20070222575Abstract: A motorcycle that preserves the detection accuracy of an inclination sensor without use of a component provided exclusively for protection of the inclination sensor and without the necessity for rigid attachment of the inclination sensor. The motorcycle includes an inclination sensor for detecting a lateral inclination angle of a vehicle body. The inclination sensor is disposed below a component that is removably mounted on the vehicle body.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 7, 2007Publication date: September 27, 2007Applicant: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventor: Daihei Kawashima
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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: 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: 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: 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: 6982638Abstract: A self-canceling turn signal includes an inner wheel rotating at an inner velocity and an outer wheel rotating at an outer velocity. An inner rotational velocity of the inner wheel and an outer rotational velocity of the outer wheel may be measured and compared, and a turn signal may be responsive to a differential signal substantially proportional to the difference between the inner and the outer rotational velocities. The turn signal may signal a turn while the differential signal is greater than a predetermined differential signal.Type: GrantFiled: December 9, 2003Date of Patent: January 3, 2006Assignee: Mack Trucks, Inc.Inventor: John David Bernosky
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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: 6876300Abstract: An intelligent turn signal control system for turning on and off left and right turn signals in a vehicle includes a computer, such as an antilock braking system computer, with programmed software operably disposed on a vehicle, a driver interface switch assembly as input to the computer. Two or more wheel speed sensors transmit differential wheel movement data as input to the computer, 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: November 25, 2002Date of Patent: April 5, 2005Inventor: Richard L. Ponziani