Abstract: Lighting systems may include a group charging station and a lighting device. The group charging stations may include a plurality of power devices operable to power the lighting device, the plurality of power devices including a first power device and a second power device, the first power device including a first plurality of electrical contacts, the second power device including a second plurality of electrical contacts, and a group charging platform operable to concurrently charge the plurality of power devices.

Abstract: A safety device comprises a light source, a power source coupled to the light source, a controller coupled to the light source and the power source to control operation of the lighting device, and a connection port that transmits and receives power up and control signals. In some embodiments, the connection port transmits and receives a wired signal. In further embodiments, the connection port transmits and receives a wireless signal. In some embodiments, the connection port receives a signal from an external source. In some of these embodiments, the external source is a remote control. In further embodiments, the external source is a program located on a computing device. In still further embodiments, the external source is one or more additional connection port of one or more additional safety devices. In some embodiments, the signal is a signal to power the light source.

Abstract: Various systems and methods for a reconfigurable roadside network. Current traffic data of a road segment is received from sensors. A traffic scenario is identified based on current the traffic data. Key performance indicators are determined for the traffic scenario. The roadside network is modified based on the key performance indicators.

Abstract: In example implementations, a modular display system is provided. The modular display system includes a center modular display and a curved modular display. The center modular display is bezel free on a left side and a right side. The curved modular display includes a single bezel free side and a display area that is less than, or equal to, a display area of the center modular display. The single bezel free side of the curved modular display is in communication with the left side, or the right side, of the center modular display such that the center modular display and the curved modular display appear as a single display to a computing device.

Abstract: A modular display panel includes a plastic housing having a recess, a printed circuit board disposed in the recess, a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) attached to the printed circuit board, a transparent potting compound overlying the LEDs, a driver circuit attached to the printed circuit board, and a heat sink disposed between a back side of the housing and the printed circuit board. The heat sink thermally contacts the back side of the housing and the printed circuit board. The panel also includes a power supply and a network interface controller.

Abstract: The disclosure provides conspicuity devices and methods. A first embodiment includes a glove with at least one elongate lighting device adapted and configured to admit light having an advantageous spectral energy distribution. Additional articles of clothing are provided herein for enhanced conspicuity, such as for emergency workers and athletes.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to estimated road geometries used in vehicles, and in particular to a method and a control unit in a vehicle for determining a confidence level of an estimated road geometry. A method for determining a confidence level of an estimated road geometry is disclosed, the road geometry being estimated at least partly based on a position of a road object. The method comprises obtaining a reference position of the road object relative to the vehicle, updating a reach of a confidence zone of the vehicle, wherein a part of the estimated road geometry comprised within the confidence zone is associated with one or more reference confidence levels, and determining the confidence level of the estimated road geometry based on whether the reference position is comprised in the confidence zone.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an emergency alert and warning apparatus and, more particularly, to a road emergency alert and warning apparatus which is installed on a median strip or a guide rail of an expressway or the like to alert a driver of a rear vehicle of an emergency situation when a traffic accident occurs during nighttime driving, thereby preventing an additional secondary accident.

Abstract: The image processing device includes a lane marking recognition section that recognizes left and right lane markings from a surroundings image captured by an imaging section, and a leading vehicle recognition section that recognizes a leading vehicle from the surroundings image. The lane marking recognition section determines that the left and right lane markings are a true lane marking pair in cases in which a width direction discrepancy, or a value based on the discrepancy, between a reference position between the left and right lane markings and a reference position of the leading vehicle is within a threshold value.

Abstract: A method performed by an electronic device is described. The method includes generating a depth map of a scene external to a vehicle. The method also includes performing first processing in a first direction of a depth map to determine a first non-obstacle estimation of the scene. The method also includes performing second processing in a second direction of the depth map to determine a second non-obstacle estimation of the scene. The method further includes combining the first non-obstacle estimation and the second non-obstacle estimation to determine a non-obstacle map of the scene. The combining includes combining comprises selectively using a first reliability map of the first processing and/or a second reliability map of the second processing The method additionally includes navigating the vehicle using the non-obstacle map.

Abstract: A safety or sports cone with controlled illumination is provided that is durable and easy to use. The cone has a light-transmitting body with an illumination device housing integrated into the top of the body that houses an illumination device that rests on a support ring and is accessed by a housing cap. The illumination device includes a light-emitting diode (LED) module, an LED actuator, a battery, and a battery housing. The illumination device is covered by a protective transparent shell. A reflective platform increases the illumination intensity at the top of the cone and provides additional protection from physical damage and contaminants. The illumination is activated and deactivated by pressing the center of the housing cap to affect the LED actuator. One or more ridges extending from the inner surface of the body below the support ring prevent unwanted activation of the illumination device during cone stacking.

Abstract: A method performed by an electronic device is described. The method includes performing vertical processing of a depth map to determine a vertical non-obstacle estimation. The method also includes performing horizontal processing of the depth map to determine a horizontal non-obstacle estimation. The method further includes combining the vertical non-obstacle estimation and the horizontal non-obstacle estimation. The method additionally includes generating a non-obstacle map based on the combination of the vertical and horizontal non-obstacle estimations.

Abstract: A method for informing a driver of a vehicle of lane passing regulations on a road. The method includes detecting a start of a no passing zone on a road, notifying the driver of the no passing zone, detecting an end of the no passing zone, and notifying the driver that the no passing zone has ended.

Abstract: An LED based light assembly and lighting system is disclosed. The lighting system includes at least one light assembly comprising a plurality of LED chips, a controller and a power supply module. The controller is configured to receive an input signal and to provide an output control signal for controlling power to the at least one light assembly. The power supply module is configured to receive a standard voltage and current signal and to provide a power signal to the at least one light assembly to power the at least one light assembly in response to the control signal.

Abstract: A control system controls a light source which illuminates an implement coupled to a utility vehicle. The control system includes a vehicle control unit and a data bus which is connected to the vehicle control unit, the light source and an actuator which adjusts the light source. An implement control unit is mounted in the implement and is connected to the data bus. The implement control unit transmits, via the data bus, data regarding the work width and/or work height and/or position of the implement with respect to the utility vehicle. The vehicle control unit, in response to the data transmitted from the implement control unit, controls the actuator to adjust of the orientation and/or of the opening angle of a light cone of the light source.

Abstract: An LED based light assembly and lighting system is disclosed. The lighting system includes at least one light assembly comprising a plurality of LED chips, a controller and a power supply module. The controller is configured to receive an input signal and to provide an output control signal for controlling power to the at least one light assembly. The power supply module is configured to receive a standard voltage and current signal and to provide a power signal to the at least one light assembly to power the at least one light assembly in response to the control signal.

Abstract: A collapsible lighting device has a main body surrounded by a collar whose position is adjustable along the longitudinal axis of the main body. Pivotally connected or hinged legs are attached to the collar and to the main body with struts. When the collar is on one position, the legs deploy outward from the main body to the extent permitted by the struts, thereby allowing the legs to support the collapsible lighting device upright. A lamp head is attached to a member which telescope from the main body. When deployed, the lamp head can be switched on to provide illumination. When the collar is another position, the legs are drawn in toward the main body to form a cylindrical shape. The lam head can be positioned so that when the telescoping member is retracted into the main body, the collar surrounds the exterior of the lamp head, thus protecting the lamp head for transport.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention includes a light emitting road boundary marking for activation upon road departure. The marker includes a photovoltaic cell unit mounted in a housing and having a photovoltaic cell plate and a battery. Further, a light emitting unit is mounted with the housing, and the light emitting unit has a light to be turned on and off based on electricity supplied from the photovoltaic cell unit and conditions of a control unit. The control unit includes a microphone to detect a soundwave generated by a wheel traveling over a rumble strip, a comparing circuit to substantially match the detected soundwave with a pre-programmed soundwave pattern, and a driver unit to activate the light emitting unit when the detected soundwave substantially matches the pre-programmed soundwave.

Abstract: A barricade light includes a light member, a receiver, a transmitter and a controller. The receiver is configured to receive an incoming signal from an adjacent barricade light and deliver the incoming signal to the controller. The incoming signal includes information about a position of the adjacent barricade light in a row of barricade lights. The controller is configured to determine a position of the barricade light in the row of barricade lights based on the information, synchronize operation of the light member to the adjacent barricade light, and transmit an outgoing signal via the transmitter. The outgoing signal includes information about a position of the barricade light in the row of barricade lights.

Abstract: The invention disclosed herein is a securely attached portable, wearable device to enhance safety, visibility and communication capability of safety personnel when such personal leave their vehicles. The device provided is configured to be securely attached to the wearer, and is capable of emitting variable visual and audio signals actuated by a control panel component which is designed so that the user can activate various options of visual and audio signals while in flight. The device may further include GPS capability for tracking, activation and deactivation functions.

Abstract: A mobile device including a solar battery having a light-receiving surface provided on a casing of the mobile device, an illuminance detector that detects an illuminance of light incident on the casing, an output section that outputs a state of light incident on the light-receiving surface of the solar battery, and a controller that controls the output section based on the illuminance detected by the illuminance detector.

Abstract: A cylindrical hollow body fence post disposed according to the present invention features a first closed-geometry longitudinally hollow inner profile interconnected by at least two longitudinally extending bridging elements to a second closed-geometry longitudinally extending outer profile. The tubular post comprises one or more longitudinal housing for receiving illuminating elements. The illuminating elements are powered by a solar panel. The longitudinal housings receiving the illuminating elements are closed by longitudinal coverings providing a dovetail connection with the open end of the housings.

Abstract: A motion detecting traffic cone assembly includes a cone that may be positioned on a support surface such that the cone is visible to an observer. A processor is coupled to the cone. A motion detector is coupled to the cone so the motion detector may detect the observer. The motion detector is operationally coupled to the processor so the motion detector may selectivel actuate the processor. A light emitter is coupled to the cone. The light emitter is operationally coupled to the processor so the processor may selectively actuate the light emitter. An alarm is coupled to the cone. The alarm is operationally coupled to the processor so the processor may selectively actuate the alarm. A speaker is coupled to the cone. The speaker is operationally coupled to the alarm so the alarm may selectively actuate the speaker. A control panel is coupled to the cone. The control panel is operationally coupled to the processor.

Abstract: A traffic management system includes a data processing unit which communicates with a road leading unit and a vehicle management unit. The road leading unit comprises a plurality of grooves and isolation railings, the grooves are formed on a road, and the isolation railings are received in the grooves and can be opened to divide the road. The data processing unit can receive vehicle identification information and driving direction information from the vehicle management unit. The data processing unit comprises a data analysis module and a control module. The data analysis module is operable to estimate road condition information and count a total traffic demand index for each road according to the vehicle identification information and the driving direction information. The control module is operable to control the isolation railings to open or retract according to the total traffic demand index.

Abstract: One estimate indicates that rubbernecking and congestion consumes about 4% of this country's fuel. Two approaches are presented to help solve this problem. The first uses shields to block the view of a car accident. Rubbernecking is reduced since the visibility of the car accident is reduced. A second approach uses mobile flat units that can be remotely controlled to enter a roadway that is carrying active traffic. The traffic runs over these units that are being moved until the master processor indicates that the mobile flat units are in position. A post is extended from the flat unit that issues commands to the motorists so the master processor can begin to control and reduce congestion. Both approaches can be used to help decrease fuel waste in the US.

Abstract: An automated gate system (AGS) for processing vehicles entering and exiting a controlled access facility via a single common traffic flow. The AGS provides a single portal receiving both ingress and egress vehicle traffic as a common traffic flow sharing a same access road. The access road feeds a multi-lane gated sub-system having associated kiosks providing an interface for obtaining vehicle and driver related information and which have a combined inbound/outbound gate for controlling ingress and egress movement of vehicles of the common traffic flow in and out from the controlled access facility. A computer system receives signals from the portal and the kiosks representing a status of the vehicles alone or in combination with driver information for controlling gate operation of each of the gates. Thereby, both ingress and egress routes are controlled, and both ingress and egress movement of the vehicles regarding the access facility is controlled.

Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus, system, and method to utilize road markers to control vehicle speeds. The road markers may be commanded to emit a light for a pre-determined period of time. Further, the road markers may be controlled such that they are commanded to emit the light based upon a timing sequence associated with a desired speed so that the road markers emit light in a strobe pattern. In this way, if a vehicle is traveling at the desired speed, then the strobe pattern appears static to a driver of the vehicle. Additionally, a message may be transmitted from a traffic authority to increase or decrease the timing sequence of the strobe pattern to increase or decrease the speed to the desired speed.

Abstract: A barricade light includes a light member, a receiver, a transmitter and a controller. The receiver is configured to receive an incoming signal from an adjacent barricade light and deliver the incoming signal to the controller. The incoming signal includes information about a position of the adjacent barricade light in a row of barricade lights. The controller is configured to determine a position of the barricade light in the row of barricade lights based on the information, synchronize operation of the light member to the adjacent barricade light, and transmit an outgoing signal via the transmitter. The outgoing signal includes information about a position of the barricade light in the row of barricade lights.

Abstract: A system in which a sensor unit in the casing of a lantern detects an impact and generates a wireless alert signal and is powered from the battery used to power the light source of the lantern. The sensor unit can be mounted onto the terminals of a battery and held within the cavity of the lantern housing used to house the battery. In this way the sensor unit can be incorporated with the lantern without any modification to the design of the lantern.

Abstract: A portable traffic signaling system includes a plurality of portable traffic signals, each of the portable traffic signals having a plurality of traffic lights and a stand having legs that fold for transport and unfold for deployment. A short range wireless traffic signal transceiver that communicates bidirectionally via a short range wireless communication link. A traffic signal processing module controls the operation of the plurality of traffic lights to at least: a stop condition, and a go condition based on control data, such as control data received from a remote control device via the short range wireless communication link.

Abstract: A system to identify junctions of restricted areas to approaching vehicles, including at least one warning signal generator adapted to transmit the warning signal into areas traversed by the vehicles approaching the restricted areas, a receiver in each of the vehicles receiving the transmitted warning signals when the vehicle approaches one of the restricted areas, and an alarm responsive to the warning signal, which produces an alarm signal detectable by a vehicle operator.

Abstract: The portable traffic barrier with illuminated message display includes at least one lightweight panel having a rigid frame and a matrix of separate illumination units therein. The illumination units are flexibly secured to one another within the panel by links extending between adjacent units. Each illumination unit includes two mutually opposed faces, either or both faces providing illumination from a plurality of small lighting elements (e.g., LEDs) therein. Some of the units may be non-illuminated, if desired. The panel includes an electrical power supply capable of providing power to the illumination units from a solar panel, a portable electrical supply, or from the local power grid, if available. In at least one embodiment, the panel may be folded in accordion fashion for more compact storage when not deployed. A plurality of such panels may be interconnected mechanically and electrically to provide a comprehensive traffic message, if desired.

Abstract: The portable traffic barrier with illuminated message display includes at least one lightweight panel having a rigid frame and a matrix of separate illumination units therein. The illumination units are flexibly secured to one another within the panel by links extending s between adjacent units. Each illumination unit includes two mutually opposed faces, either or both faces providing illumination from a plurality of small lighting elements (e.g., LEDs) therein. Some of the units may be non-illuminated, if desired. The panel includes an electrical power supply capable of providing power to the illumination units from a solar panel, a portable electrical supply, or from the local power grid, if available. In at least one embodiment, the panel may be folded in accordion fashion for more compact storage when not deployed. A plurality of such panels may be interconnected mechanically and electrically to provide a comprehensive traffic message, if desired.

Abstract: Device for viewing the aerial environment for aircraft, including a display, a processor and memory configured to generate and to provide a first data processing resource, the data being a graphical representation of the aerial environment composed of colored zones, each color being associated with a danger level for the aircraft, said data comprising environmental data; and a second data processing resource for cartographic data. The device further comprises a graphical mixer to overlay the graphical representation arising from the environmental data onto a representation of the cartographic data on one viewing screen, each zone of a color of the representation of environmental data having a transparency coefficient dependent on the danger level.

Abstract: A portable traffic control unit for temporary use is disclosed that is capable of both automatic and manual operation. The unit is modular and is small enough and light enough that it is easily carried in a police, emergency or other vehicle and can be set up and programmed for use by one person. The unit has a bright LED display typically having red, orange, green lights, and flashing white strobe LEDs that are microprocessor controlled. The unit has a radio receiver that receives RF signals used to control the operation of the unit, and the signals are received from a handheld RF transmitter used at the site of the unit, or are received from an RF transmitter at a remote control site. Various sensors may be attached to the unit to provide information that is transmitted to the handheld remote control and/or to the remote control site using an RF transmitter that is part of the unit. Multiple traffic control units operating at a common site can communicate with each other to facilitate operations.

Abstract: A portable signal system for use by crossing guards, roadway construction flaggers and the like. The signal system is positioned in or alongside a roadway and remotely controllable progressively from an idle or stop mode through a warning stage and ultimately to a traffic stop mode as the signal system frontal profile greatly expands in the face of oncoming motorists. In a warning stage, the signal system presents a flashing amber light array. Following an initial warning period, articulated arms journalled on said signal system and carrying stop signal signs including red lights are swiveled outwardly to stop mode confronting motorists in oncoming traffic. A motor driven gear disk operates through pivoted drive links to control laterally outward and inward movement of the articulated arms carrying the stop signs. The system may be manually moved by handles on wheels to its operational location and anchored in place.

Abstract: A manually operated traffic barrier gate which may economically installed and maintained, and easily operated by a single individual during emergency or other critical situations. One embodiment comprises a permanently mounted barrier gate movable from a retracted, upright position to lowered position extended to bridge a preselected traffic path, wherein the gate is counterbalanced to stay in the upright position until deployed, and to be balanced to stay in the deployed state when extended. The barrier gate are operable by one person and includes locking devices to maintain their stored upright or deployed lowered position. A further embodiment of the present invention provides a dual mobile gate which may be towed singly or in a chain (dual gate one behind the other), in a retracted length to the desired location, and thereafter be disconnected from the towing vehicle and left at the site to be deployed in an extended manner or retracted and moved as needed.

Abstract: A variable lighting system (“VLS”) for optimizing object visibility at night by setting a base level of lighting, adding a variable light to that base level of lighting, and a synchronizing the timing and sequence of the base level of lighting and the variable lighting. The VLS varies the illumination by intensity, color, direction, or a combination thereof and optionally includes a detector for detecting motion, noise, and other occurrences. The VLS can be implemented as a fixed lighting source, a movable lighting source, or a vehicle mounted lighting source. The VLS improves visibility at night for viewers or motorists thereby reducing accidents and damage costs, saves energy, and improves the environment and enhances quality of life by reducing light pollution and light trespass.

Abstract: An alarm device of a vehicle battery for monitoring voltage ranges in charging and discharging processes of the vehicle battery uses a sampling circuit to monitor the charging and discharging voltages real time of a battery, and prompts alert through a light or a buzzer of an alert unit in accordance with the preset voltage stage in a charging and discharging process of the battery. Moreover, a connection port compatible to an external electric device for accessing and examining the defect of a malfunction battery as a reference for maintaining and updating a malfunctioned battery.

Abstract: One estimate indicates that rubbernecking and congestion consumes about 4% of this country's fuel. Two approaches are presented to help solve this problem. The first uses shields to block the view of a car accident. Rubbernecking is reduced since the visibility of the car accident is reduced. A second approach uses mobile flat units that can be remotely controlled to enter a roadway that is carrying active traffic. The traffic runs over these units that are being moved until the master processor indicates that the mobile flat units are in position. A post is extended from the flat unit that issues commands to the motorists so the master processor can begin to control and reduce congestion. Both approaches can be used to help decrease fuel waste in the US.

Abstract: A system includes a plurality of sensors that provide information regarding instantaneous traffic conditions incident to an intersection. An inference engine of the system receives the sensor information and processes user-defined traffic control algorithms and weighted management parameters. Control signals are derived in accordance with the processing. Multi-state signaling devices are driven in accordance with the control signals so as to manage vehicular and pedestrian traffic flow at the intersection. Playback of historic traffic information permits analysis and verification of the traffic management strategies implemented by the system.

Abstract: A system and apparatus controls the movement of vehicles such as highway traffic. The system includes a plurality of inorganic entities which simulate mammalian figures and control apparatus which is operatively associated with the mammalian figures such as to control their respective movement upon activation by an activation assembly. A system actuating means is provided whereby upon selected system actuation the mammalian figures are caused to issue signals to effectively control the movement or arrest of traffic within the effective area of operation of the system.

Abstract: A system for displaying safety information—particularly for pedestrian crosswalks and vehicle brake lights—that permits an operator located at a hub to upload and transmit at least one image to select traffic signals or brake light display screen connected within the network. The at least one image depicts a display of regional, local or even neighborhood significance. The operator, or user, can pinpoint which traffic signals will ultimately display these images. The images are locally significant, informative and whimsical.

Abstract: A road cone includes: a hollow truncated conical body having a top open end defining a top opening; a power supplying unit mounted detachably in the truncated conical body and accessible through the top opening; a cap mounted on the top open end of the truncated conical body and covering the top opening of the truncated conical body; and a light emitting unit mounted in the truncated conical body and connected electrically to the power supplying unit so as to be powered by the power supplying unit to generate light inside the truncated conical body.

Abstract: A warning light assembly includes a source of electrical power, an LED light source, electrical circuitry operably coupling the source of electrical power to the light source and a lens assembly. The lens assembly encloses the LED light source such that light from the source is directed outwardly from the lens assembly. The lens assembly is triangular in shape. In certain embodiments, the electrical power source includes a rechargeable battery and the assembly further comprises a solar panel operably connected to the rechargeable battery. A triangular lens assembly may be connected at a vertex to a housing which holds the electrical power source. The solar panel may be mounted on a peripheral surface of the lens assembly opposite the vertex.

Abstract: A warning system for barriers of highways comprises a plurality of barrier plates erected on two sides of roads in a different distance arrangement, and each including an optical fiber and a power line for network connection and communication connected therewith, and including a plurality of LED warning lights and LED illumination lights attached thereon; a number of electric control boxes affixed onto the barrier plates in a different distance arrangement, and each electrically connecting with the optical fiber and the power line for controllably changing warning and illuminating signs of the LED warning lights and the LED illumination lights; a plurality of solar energy devices matching with the electrical control boxes for absorbing and storing solar energy to supply power in the night or in electricity shortage; multiple monitor stations severing to monitor the electrical control boxes for controlling the LED warning lights of the barrier plates to change warning signs.

Abstract: A Safety Warning Device which when the visual tape and laser mechanisms are components of vertical posts (both primary and corresponding), can be mounted to a base (permanent or portable) or customized to fit on a flatbed trailer, which when the visual tape is extended and the laser mechanism is activated provides both an audible and visual warning, notifying person(s) when they are in danger or in a restricted/unauthorized area. The tape is a visual warning which is high enough to be seen by person(s). The height can be adjusted on both the primary and corresponding posts. The laser is both a visual warning (as the light/laser beam is visible) and an audible warning when the laser connection is disturbed or interrupted. This can be an immediate warning as well as a signal sent to an alternative warning mechanism.

Abstract: Temporary safety zones are established by deploying a plurality of safety icons connected by extensible, brightly colored, retro-reflective tapes. The tapes are retracted within the housings of the safety icons. A plurality of modules having different functions are removably affixed to the base of the safety icons, the modules including sensors, beacons, transceivers, detection devices, and audio receivers and video cameras. Because the modules are manually interchangeable, the safety zones can be implemented for specific, interchangeable circumstances, e.g., a surveillance station, portable helipad, landing strip, and restricted area barriers.

Abstract: Methods and systems use a programmable sign display located in proximity to a traffic light to provide information to motorists upon the motorists directing their attention toward the traffic light. The programmable sign display may receive programming for content to be displayed in various ways, such as through an interface to a telephone network accessible by a cell phone that sends programming information to the sign. The programmable sign may be used to inform motorists of a radio frequency upon which relevant information such as advertising or traffic reports is being broadcast. The programmable sign may be used to provide textual or graphical information, such as an instruction to motorists that relates to avoiding an approaching emergency vehicle. Additionally, management of the sign is provided to coordinate programming and control of the content being displayed.

Abstract: Traffic safety systems and method impart traffic control information to traffic in a construction zone. The traffic safety arrow system includes a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs), an input switch for selecting the information to be displayed, a plurality of solid state switches, each solid state switch connected to one or more of the LEDs, a controller for reading the input switch and controlling the solid state switches to illuminated the LEDs to display the traffic control information, a battery for providing power to the traffic safety arrow system, a voltage controller for generating an operating voltage from the battery to operate the traffic safety arrow system, and an enclosure having at least two slots formed through its lower part to facilitate attachment of the traffic safety arrow system to a traffic barrel or a tripod.