Abstract: A vehicle lamp using a fluid lens and a control method of the vehicle lamp are provided. The vehicle lamp notifies the driving status of a vehicle to the drivers of following vehicles via a tail lamp. In particular the vehicle lamp includes a light source and a fluid lens that changes a curvature shape of the fluid lens based on an input current and generates a light emission image that corresponds to a driving status of a vehicle to the exterior of the vehicle lamp. Additionally, the input current varies based on the driving status of the vehicle.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling the taillight of a vehicle are disclosed. The apparatus includes a visible light wireless communication data generation unit, a brightness control unit, a variable pulse position modulation (VPPM) signal generation unit, and a light source. The visible light wireless communication data generation unit generates information about the operation of a vehicle. The brightness control unit generates a brightness control value that is used to control the brightness of a light source installed at the tail of the vehicle. The variable pulse position modulation (VPPM) signal generation unit controls a pulse position and a pulse width within a unit pulse section of a pulse that controls the light source based on the information about the operation of the vehicle and the brightness control value.

Abstract: A rear spoiler arrangement (2) for a vehicle has at least one rear spoiler (6), that can be moved in the vertical direction of the vehicle between a rest position and a functional position. The rear spoiler arrangement (2) is placed on a rear spoiler support (5) and substantially follows the shape profile in the rear area of the vehicle body when the rear spoiler arrangement (2) is in the rest position. Rear light units (4) of the vehicle are integrated into lateral end regions (3) of the rear spoiler support (5) and/or of the rear spoiler (6).

Abstract: Vehicular Sequential LED Ring Warning System is disclosed. This system improves upon existing taillight configurations by providing operators with distinct LED rings that sequential illuminate based upon the vehicle operator's braking intensity. This system will provide all drivers with a significantly more effective method of determining braking intensity. Using a simple and consistent sequence of three LED rings, the Sequential Warning System has the capacity to revolutionize existing brake light warning system design concepts by providing driver's with a decisive illumination pattern that simply replaces the vehicle's brake lights rather than adding a separate set of LED or light bulb arrays, which only increase driver confusion when simultaneously interpreting separate brake light signals.

Abstract: An improved vehicle brake light system is provided, in which a transmitter and receiver is used to determine the distance and closing velocity of a trailing vehicle relative to a lead vehicle. The distance and closing velocity are used to determine whether a trailing vehicle may cause a risk of collision upon application of the lead vehicle brakes. If the distance between the trailing vehicle and lead vehicle is deemed below a minimum threshold at a given vehicle speed, the rear brake lights are illuminated. If the closing velocity is a trailing vehicle is deemed above a threshold maximum, the system pulses the rear brake lights of the lead vehicle. This improves communication between a lead vehicle and a trailing vehicle, whereby the trailing vehicle is alerted to cease tailgating activity or alternatively to apply the brakes in order to avoid a potential rear-end collision.

Abstract: A system for detection of braking of a vehicle may include a device provided in a first vehicle. The device may be in communication with a detector mounted to the first vehicle to monitor an area in front of the first vehicle. The detector may detect light emitted by the rear lights of a second vehicle when the second vehicle is ahead of the first vehicle in the monitored area. The device may acquire data from the detector and analyze the acquired data in order to detect an optical signal emitted by the rear lights of the second vehicle. The optical signal may encode information indicative of a braking procedure being performed by the second vehicle. The device may evaluate the detected optical signal in order to derive the information indicative of the braking procedure of the second vehicle.

Abstract: A warning system for a vehicle having an air suspension system can include an indicator, an event data recorder, and a controller. The controller can be configured to determine a load on a front axle and a rear axle when the vehicle is in a static condition and compare the determined load on the front and rear axles to a predetermined load threshold for each of the front and rear axles. A warning signal can be provided to the indicator indicative of at least one of the determined loads exceeding the corresponding predetermined load threshold upon the controller determining one of the determined loads exceeds the corresponding predetermined load threshold. Data indicative of at least one of the determined loads exceeding the corresponding predetermined threshold can be communicated to the event data recorder.

Abstract: A system for detection of braking of a vehicle may include a device provided in a first vehicle. The device may be in communication with a detector mounted to the first vehicle to monitor an area in front of the first vehicle. The detector may detect light emitted by the rear lights of a second vehicle when the second vehicle is ahead of the first vehicle in the monitored area. The device may acquire data from the detector and analyze the acquired data in order to detect an optical signal emitted by the rear lights of the second vehicle. The optical signal may encode information indicative of a braking procedure being performed by the second vehicle. The device may evaluate the detected optical signal in order to derive the information indicative of the braking procedure of the second vehicle.

Abstract: A method and a device for triggering an emergency call in a vehicle equipped with an airbag. The device can be retrofitted in a vehicle equipped with an airbag to provide an emergency system which, in the event of an airbag being triggered, sends an emergency call (Ecall) to a suitable emergency call center in order to initiate auxiliary measures as may be necessary.

Abstract: A progressive braking indicator system includes a brake light assembly having multiple lights, a brake pedal for the vehicle, a sensor connected to the brake pedal for measuring a distance the brake pedal has moved and an amount of pressure applied to the brake pedal by a driver of the vehicle, and a brake control processor connected to the sensor and the at least one brake light assembly. The brake control processor is configured to: a) receive the distance and amount of pressure measured by the sensor, b) generate a signal based on the distance and amount of pressure measured by the sensor, wherein the signal is configured to illuminate a varying subset of the plurality of lights based on the distance and amount of pressure measured by the sensor. A power source connected to the at least one brake light assembly, the sensor, and the brake control processor.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a variable brake light in which a lighting unit can be illuminated in a variety of shapes according to a vehicle operating state or the selection of a driver.

Abstract: A vehicle brake light system includes a proximity sensing device disposed proximate a rearward region of a vehicle for determining whether an object is located within a predetermined distance of the rearward region of the vehicle. Also included is at least one brake light disposed proximate the rearward region of the vehicle, wherein the at least one brake light is configured to be in an illuminated state or a non-illuminated state. Further included is a controller in operable communication with the proximity sensing device, wherein the controller is configured to receive a proximity sensing device signal when the object is within the predetermined distance and configured to send an alert signal to the at least one brake light to enact the illuminated state upon receiving the proximity sensing device signal from the proximity sensing device.

Abstract: There are provided a brake pedal sensor and a stop lamp lighting device in a vehicle, which are capable of controlling blinking of a stop lamp in a simple configuration. The brake pedal sensor includes: a stop lamp switching section which outputs a switch signal; a brake position sensor section which outputs a brake position signal; and a logic circuit section for receiving the switch signal and a blinking signal generated by the brake position signal are inputted, and which outputs a control signal for controlling lighting and blinking of the stop lamp. Using this brake pedal sensor allows configuration of the stop lamp lighting device in a simpler manner.

Abstract: Some embodiments of the present disclosure include a front and side viewable brake indicator system for a vehicle. The brake indicator system may include a pair of front mounted brake lights mounted on a vehicle, the first front mounted brake light mounted to a position proximate to a passenger side front corner of the vehicle, and the second front mounted brake light mounted to a position proximate to a driver side front corner of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the system also includes a top mounted brake light mounted on an exterior surface of a roof of the vehicle. Each of the brake lights may be configured to be viewed at a position in front of and to a side of the vehicle and may be configured to illuminate when a driver presses on a brake pedal in the vehicle.

Abstract: A signaling system allows a front vehicle to give advance notifications of signaling intentions to a rear vehicle by activating an intent signal on a vehicle when an object, such as a foot, is in proximity to, and/or moving towards, a signal actuator. A detector portion emits a motion signal, such as a plurality of optical beams that form a grid on a planar surface of the brake pedal. An interruption in the grid actuates a radio frequency signal from the detector positioned in proximity to the brake pedal, to an indicator portion, positioned in a rear visible area of the vehicle. The indicator includes a light emitting diode strip that is visible from the car and may tilt and orient for variable viewing angles. The illumination from the indicator differs from the brake illumination to differentiate between intent to brake and actual braking.

Abstract: An apparatus for providing deceleration rate information of a user operating a vehicle is disclosed. The apparatus includes a unit including an accelerometer, a processor, and a lighting mechanism. The processor receives from the accelerometer deceleration info of the vehicle and variably adjusts at least one aspect of the lighting mechanism, thereby quantitatively signaling the deceleration rate to a driver of a following vehicle. The unit may be mounted on an article of clothing, a bag, or the vehicle itself.

Abstract: A brake lamp module for a vehicle, wherein the module includes a housing, lamp device, sensor, and electronic control unit (ECU). The lamp device, sensor and ECU are carried by the housing. The ECU is configured based at least in part on data received from the sensor to provide a power signal that causes illumination of the lamp device. In at least some embodiments, this arrangement permits actuation of the brake lamp or other lamp device in response to detection of a hazard event, such as rapid deceleration of the vehicle. And, in at least some embodiments, this may be done independently of actuation of the brake pedal by the driver.

Abstract: A progressive braking indicator system includes a brake light assembly having multiple lights, a brake pedal for the vehicle, a sensor connected to the brake pedal for measuring a distance the brake pedal has moved and an amount of pressure applied to the brake pedal by a driver of the vehicle, and a brake control processor connected to the sensor and the at least one brake light assembly. The brake control processor is configured to: a) receive the distance and amount of pressure measured by the sensor, b) generate a signal based on the distance and amount of pressure measured by the sensor, wherein the signal is configured to illuminate a varying subset of the plurality of lights based on the distance and amount of pressure measured by the sensor. A power source connected to the at least one brake light assembly, the sensor, and the brake control processor.

Abstract: An indicator device on a marine vessel is configured to display motion. A controller operates the indicator device according to at least a first mode wherein the indicator device displays motion and a second mode wherein the indicator device does not display motion. The controller operates the indicator device based upon an operational characteristic of the marine vessel to thereby inform a swimmer located proximate to the marine vessel of the operational characteristic.

Abstract: A braking display system attached to an automobile is provided. The automobile includes a braking system for stopping the automobile while the automobile is in motion. The braking system includes a brake pedal that is used to initiate the braking system. A user may apply a plurality of different intensity levels to the braking system using the brake pedal. An indicator is used to project a level of intensity that is applied to the braking system from the rear of the automobile.

Abstract: A method and system for providing taxiway navigational information to a crewmember of an airplane taxiing at an airport. An airport taxiway navigation system (“ATNS”) that executes on an onboard computer system that displays a map of the taxiways of an airport, receives the name of each taxiway of the taxi route specified by the taxi clearance, and highlights the taxiways on a displayed map to provide a visual indication of the cleared taxi route for the crewmembers.

Abstract: A sensor module generates sensor data in response to an impact to protective headgear, wherein the sensor module includes an accelerometer and a gyroscope and wherein the sensor data includes linear acceleration data and rotational velocity data. A device processing module generates event data in response to the sensor data. A device interface sends the event data to a monitoring device when the device interface is coupled to the monitoring device.

Abstract: The invention specifies a sensor arrangement for a brake system for braking a wheel in a vehicle, which brake system includes a travel sensor for detecting a position of a brake pedal of the brake system, wherein the travel sensor is provided for detecting operation of the brake pedal based on the position of the brake pedal and for outputting a signal which indicates operation of the brake pedal.

Abstract: A brake warning device and method includes acquiring acceleration data of a bicycle, and calculating a specific parameter according to the acceleration data acquired within a preset interval using a preset calculation method. The bicycle is determined to be decelerating if the specific parameter is less than a preset threshold value. A brake light of the brake warning device is turned on to warn that the bicycle is braking.

Abstract: The present invention provides a lighting apparatus with functions of break warning and directional indication, comprising a break sensor unit, a control unit, at least one display unit and a direction sensor unit. The break sensor unit detects a reduced speed of a vehicle during its break and outputs a break signal correspondingly; the control unit is eclectically connected to the break sensor unit and outputs a break actuation signal correspondingly; the display unit is symmetrically provided on two lateral sides of the vehicle rear and displays different colors of warning lights based on the break actuation signal. The control unit is connected to a direction sensor unit for detecting a turning direction of the vehicle and outputting a direction signal such that the control unit outputs a direction actuation signal based on the direction signal and the display unit displays an indication light based on the direction actuation signal.

Abstract: A visual indicator assembly and adaptor for a trailer includes an control circuit, an input lamp plug electrically coupled to the control circuit, an output lamp plug electrically coupled to the control circuit, and an identification lamp plug electrically coupled to the control circuit. The input lamp plug is connectable to a trailer lamp plug of a lamp wiring harness of the trailer. The output lamp plug is connectable to a stop lamp of the trailer. The identification lamp plug is connectable to a corresponding identification lamp plug of the lamp wiring harness. The control circuit is configured to supply a first voltage signal to a plurality of lamps of the trailer in response to a power signal and supply a second voltage signal to the plurality of lamps in response to a brake signal. The second voltage signal is greater than the first voltage signal.

Abstract: A pedestrian warning device for a vehicle (1), especially a vehicle which is intended to be driven on public roads, includes a programmable unit, such as a CPU (3), and a brake pedal (5). The device includes further at least one front brake lamp (2, 13, 15) mounted at the front portion of the vehicle (1). The front brake lamp can be lightened up by the programmable unit (3) when certain predetermined conditions are met. Moreover, the device includes an awareness signal apparatus (10) provided with at least one awareness lamp (12).

Abstract: A vehicle brake light system includes a proximity sensing device disposed proximate a rearward region of a vehicle for determining whether an object is located within a predetermined distance of the rearward region of the vehicle. Also included is at least one brake light disposed proximate the rearward region of the vehicle, wherein the at least one brake light is configured to be in an illuminated state or a non-illuminated state. Further included is a controller in operable communication with the proximity sensing device, wherein the controller is configured to receive a proximity sensing device signal when the object is within the predetermined distance and configured to send an alert signal to the at least one brake light to enact the illuminated state upon receiving the proximity sensing device signal from the proximity sensing device.

Abstract: A motor vehicle taillight comprising a frame configured to be removably mounted to a vehicle, a housing coupled to the frame, a plurality of light emitting diode (LED) positioned along the frame, and a programmable electronic system configured to received an input signal and to selectively provide power to the at least one sets of LED arrays based on a program selected by a user and received input signal. The programmable electronic system is also configured to be selectively placed into a program mode upon activation of a switch, and when in the program mode, to select one of the plurality of programs based on at least one of a turn signal or brake signal of the motor vehicle.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for brightening and dimming a brake light of automotive vehicle for enhanced display indication of braking includes a pulse width modulation unit to be electrically connected to a brake lamp for sequentially modulating the supply energy to the lamp to generate a brightening and dimming of the lamp. A time extent of the modulation is detected so that the modulation can be stopped after a preselected time period and the light will be continually on as in a conventional braking operation. After the brake is released by the operator, a second preselected time period for locking out the sequential interrupting is timed down, for avoiding repetitive flashing during stop-and-go traffic. A sensor detects a hard-braking occurrence and disables the lockout timer to enable the sequential modulating.

Abstract: A speedometer gauge mounted on the rear of a vehicle or trailer that continuously and accurately displays a vehicle's speed in real time by utilizing a pattern of lights that illuminate sequentially in such a fashion as to exhibit to the traffic following, the speed of the vehicle, rate of deceleration or acceleration, and to indicate that the vehicle is stopped, in a panic stop, parked, standing, “riding the brake” or “riding the turn indicator” mode. A video game comprising the use of a speedlight.

Abstract: A system for displaying visually sensible patterns onto a surface of a vehicle including a display control subsystem responsive to an operational state of the vehicle, and a display device, operative in response to an input from the display control subsystem, to display a visually sensible pattern onto the surface. Preferably, the visually sensible pattern is visible from the exterior of the vehicle.

Abstract: A mount is adapted for attaching a brake switch to a brake control lever of a vehicle, such as a bicycle. The mount and/or the switch may include part of a vehicle lighting system. The vehicle lighting system may include a control unit incorporating a wireless sender unit, which is electrically connected to the switch, a wireless receiver unit, and a turn/direction and/or brake indicator light electrically connected to the wireless receiver unit.

Abstract: A control circuit for operating the lights of a vehicle. In one embodiment, the rear lights of the vehicle are controlled by the control circuit. The control circuit illuminates two or more of the vehicle lights in a common pattern to indicate a specific vehicle operation. When the vehicle simultaneously performs two operations, the controller may transition the lights to illuminate in different patterns to clearly indicate the separate vehicle operations. The controller may further provide for adjusting the light intensity of one or more of the lights. The lights may be adjusted to have a similar intensity to prevent confusion when the different lights are used in combination to indicate a vehicle operation.

Abstract: An automotive brake light system producing a graduated display according to the level of vehicle deceleration as sensed by an onboard piezoelectric accelerometer. Taillight assemblies are divided into segments which are illuminated in sequence to produce a graduated display. The vehicle anti-lock brake system may be connected into the system to provide a special lighting effect such as blinking the taillights during a panic stop condition.

Abstract: A collision detection unit mounts to a host vehicle. The collision detection unit includes a housing and a stop lamp associated with the housing and visible from outside the housing. A warning lamp is associated with the housing and is visible from outside the housing. A sensor is associated with the housing and is configured to detect an object.

Abstract: A water vehicle braking display apparatus, the apparatus including at least one sensor adapted to detect changes in input information, a signal generator to generate a signal based upon changes detected in the input information, and a display mounted for at least visual display and operable to produce a display upon receipt that a change has occurred in the input information from the signal generator.

Abstract: A tail lamp system for a vehicle includes a dynamic signal unit, a control unit, a set of input lines electrically connecting the dynamic signal unit with the control unit, an LED display board, and a set of output lines electrically connecting the LED display board with the control unit. The dynamic signal unit provides a plurality of dynamic signals relating to various instant driving information of the vehicle. The control unit receives each of the dynamic signals of the dynamic signal unit and outputs a corresponding control signal. The LED display board receives the control signal from the control unit and displays a corresponding pattern according to the received control signal to indicate instant driving information of the vehicle, for example, turning, braking, temporary stop and breakdown of the vehicle.

Abstract: There are provided a brake pedal sensor and a stop lamp lighting device in a vehicle, which are capable of controlling blinking of a stop lamp in a simple configuration. The brake pedal sensor includes: a stop lamp switching section which outputs a switch signal; a brake position sensor section which outputs a brake position signal; and a logic circuit section for receiving the switch signal and a blinking signal generated by the brake position signal are inputted, and which outputs a control signal for controlling lighting and blinking of the stop lamp. Using this brake pedal sensor allows configuration of the stop lamp lighting device in a simpler manner.

Abstract: A displacement diagnosis sensor of a brake pedal having a stop lamp switch function is provided. According to the present invention, one sensor performs both a function of a stop lamp switch and a function of diagnosing a rotational displacement of the brake pedal simultaneously to thereby save a manufacturing cost and reduce a weight.

Abstract: A deceleration-activated brake light system for a vehicle featuring a speed sensor, a brake sensor, a throttle sensor, and an engine brake switch; and a microcontroller operatively connected to a standard relay switch functioning to activate a standard brake light system of the vehicle, the microcontroller is configured to receive input signals from the sensors when the sensors detect deceleration of the vehicle more than a predetermined percent, coasting of the vehicle more than a predetermined amount of time, application of the brake pedal; or engagement of the auxiliary brake whereupon the microcontroller generates an output command to the relay to cause activation of the standard brake light system of the vehicle.

Abstract: The present invention provides system, method and apparatus for energizing one or more brake lights on a vehicle without an operator of the vehicle applying a brake of the vehicle by determining an acceleration of the vehicle, energizing the brake lights on the vehicle whenever the acceleration of the vehicle equals or exceeds a braking threshold, and deenergizing the brake lights on the vehicle whenever: (a) the brake lights are energized, (b) the acceleration of the vehicle is less than the braking threshold, (c) a specified period of time has elapsed since the brake lights were energized, and (d) the operator is not applying the brake of the vehicle.

Abstract: A spacer lamp in passenger and/or goods traffic, with a light field which dispenses light according to an illuminating configuration, wherein the light field 6 has a first and a second light source, and a control unit is provided for controlling the illumination configuration of the light field, wherein the light field 6 has a first illuminating characteristic for the eye of an average adult as he approaches the light field until a predefined spacing depending on a configuration parameter is reached, and has a second illuminating characteristic different from the first one if the spacing falls short of the predefined spacing.

Abstract: The present invention provides a stop lamp drive circuit and apparatus. The stop lamp drive apparatus includes a stop lamp switch, a vehicle battery, and a stop signal module. The stop lamp switch outputs a signal according to an operation state of a brake pedal in a vehicle. The vehicle battery supplies operation power of a stop lamp. In the stop signal module, an external controller outputting a signal for on/off control of the stop lamp is connected to an input thereof, and the stop lamp is directly connected to an output thereof.

Abstract: A third brake lighting system for indicating the application of brakes in a vehicle comprising: a panic illumination portion, where the panic illumination indicates an urgent depression of the brakes by a driver of the vehicle; and a conventional illumination portion, where the convention illumination portion abuts the panic illumination portion and said conventional illumination indicates a non-urgent depression of the brakes by the driver. The present invention essentially provides mechanisms to indicate an urgent depression of the brakes by a driver of the vehicle; and mechanisms to indicate a non-urgent depression of the brakes by the driver of the vehicle.

Abstract: A signal lamp control system for one rear side of a vehicle receives a signal or voltage from the vehicle (near side signal) originally intended to turn on all signal lamps on that side. Responsive to that signal, the signal lamp control system either turns on all signal lamps on that side or sequentially turns on the signal lamps on that side, depending on a status of a signal or voltage from the vehicle (far side signal) originally intended to control the signal lamps on the opposite rear side of the vehicle. In some embodiments, the signal lamp control system has knowledge of the state of the other side before the near side signal transitions on. This distinguishes between near-side signal activation (alone), brake activation, brake activation with near-side signal activation and hazard warning activation.

Abstract: A signal converter and method of converting a signal are provided. The converter includes a power supply, microcontroller and current sensor. The microcontroller is connected to a power supply and is configured to receive inputs from a vehicle and output signals to loads of a second vehicle. The sensor is connected to the microcontroller to monitor current flow at the loads. The output channels are configured to stagger activity on the output signals. The microcontroller reduces the duty cycle of the output signals if the current flow rises above a first threshold and resumes the output signal to full strength once the current flow falls bellow a second threshold. The method includes receiving an input signal, sending an output signal, measuring current flow, measuring temperature, reducing the power of the output signal, and restoring the output signal.

Abstract: A luminous signaling module, notably for automobile vehicles, comprising: a reflector; a screen disposed in front of the reflector, with a semi-reflecting area; radiating means adapted to emit light rays. The reflector, the screen and the radiating means being arranged in such a manner as to generate a repetitive visual effect of depth. The semi-reflecting area is configured and arranged relative to the radiating means in such a manner that a second portion of the light rays emitted by radiating means do not encounter the semi-transparent area.

Abstract: The invention relates to a vehicle light system comprising a laser device for generating a laser beam, further comprising a light output module provided with a phosphor element for emitting a light beam upon incidence of the generated laser beam and provided with an optical element associated with the phosphor element for producing a light output beam. Furthermore, the light system comprises a further light output module provided with a corresponding further phosphor element and a second optical element. The laser device is arranged to switch between a first state, in which the generated laser beam is directed to the phosphor element, and a second state in which the generated laser beam is directed to the further phosphor element.

Abstract: Brake light circuits for use with engine brakes for both positive switch and negative switch brake light circuits. The brake light circuits for the engine brakes do not function until the engine brake solenoids are energized. This ensures that only true brake indications are indicated. In the case of the positive switch, the circuit uses a relay in parallel with the existing brake light switch to active the brake lights whenever the engine brake solenoids are energized. In the case of the negative switch circuit, the original brake pedal switch is connected to ground. It is used to operate a brake light relay that sends positive power to the brake lights. A second relay is used to close the ground connection to activate the original engine brake relay. In both cases, diodes are used to prevent back feed through the bake solenoids or other components.