Vertical Axis Patents (Class 340/490)
  • Patent number: 6100791
    Abstract: An emergency signalling system is disclosed that incorporates an emergency signalling device including a light source and reflector mounted for relative rotation in incremental steps in either clockwise or counterclockwise directions. A programmable control unit of the signalling system provides digital signals to a drive source for controlling the speed and direction of the relative rotation. In response to the digital signals, the signalling device executes a variety of different visual patterns. The signalling system can be programmed from a keyboard preferably integrated into a control head mounted to a dashboard area of a vehicle incorporating the emergency signalling system. Virtually any type of visual warning pattern based on the relative rotation of a light source and reflector can be executed by the signalling device if properly programmed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 6, 1994
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Federal Signal Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph F. Bader, Ward Gieffers, Michael Benner, Kent Allen Kekeis, Dennis James Hilburger
  • Patent number: 5422623
    Abstract: An emergency signalling system is disclosed that incorporates an emergency signalling device including a light source and reflector mounted for relative rotation in incremental steps in either clockwise or counterclockwise directions. A programmable control unit of the signalling system provides digital signals to a drive source for controlling the speed and direction of the relative rotation. In response to the digital signals, the signalling device executes a variety of different visual patterns. The signalling system can be programmed from a keyboard preferably integrated into a control head mounted to a dashboard area of a vehicle incorporating the emergency signalling system. Virtually any type of visual warning pattern based on the relative rotation of a light source and reflector can be executed by the signalling device if properly programmed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 5, 1993
    Date of Patent: June 6, 1995
    Assignee: Federal Signal Corporation
    Inventors: Joseph F. Bader, Ward Gieffers, Michael Benner, Kent A. Kekeis, Dennis J. Hilburger
  • Patent number: 5355117
    Abstract: A warning sign hinge-mounted on the side of a vehicle, for warning motorists against blocking access, as by parking in close proximity, of a wheelchair to a wheelchair lift aboard the vehicle. The sign includes warning indicia and reflectors, and has a distinctive shape. The sign is manually latched to the vehicle side when not in service, and manually released for deployment. Springs urge the sign into the deployed position perpendicular to the vehicle side when not latched in the stowed position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 18, 1992
    Date of Patent: October 11, 1994
    Inventor: Len B. Jefferson
  • Patent number: 5036307
    Abstract: Apparatus for activating a stop sign on a bus from a retracted to an extended position and vice versa. The apparatus includes a motor coupled, via a rotary-to-reciprocating motion translator, to the stop sign. A rotor is connected to the motor and forms a part of the motion translator. The rotor includes an electrically conductive element at a discrete location on its periphery for sequentially engaging respective ones of a pair of elements located at fixed positions on diametric sides of the rotor. The fixed elements are connected via relays to the motor and an electrical power source to control the operation of the motor so that when the bus door is open the stop sign is extended and when the door is closed the sign is retracted.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 4, 1990
    Date of Patent: July 30, 1991
    Assignee: School Bus Parts Co. of Canada, Inc.
    Inventors: James Reavell, Raymond Heath