Pedestrian Control Patents (Class 340/925)
  • Patent number: 12260736
    Abstract: A display system is provided with a display device, a first imaging device, a storage device, and a processing device. The display device displays an image based on content information at a display position. The first imaging device images a human who is going to pass through the display position. The storage device stores a learned model obtained by performing machine learning on a correspondence relation between features of a behavior of the human, the content information to be used for the image, and a degree of risk of the human. The processing device obtains pre-passage behavior data representing a behavior of the human based on imaging result of the first imaging device, and determines the content information to be used for the image using the pre-passage behavior data and the learned model.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2023
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2025
    Assignee: SEIKO EPSON CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hiroki Nishioka
  • Patent number: 12165504
    Abstract: Provided is a method executed by a marking device that marks a first pedestrian crossing to be visually recognized by a pedestrian who is going to cross a roadway and a second pedestrian crossing to be visually recognized by a driver of a vehicle on the roadway. The method includes: marking the first pedestrian crossing and the second pedestrian crossing when one or more conditions including at least a condition that a first pedestrian who is going to cross the roadway from a first side to a second side is detected are satisfied; starting to unmark the first pedestrian crossing from the first side to the second side while the first pedestrian is crossing the roadway; and unmarking the second pedestrian crossing when the first pedestrian has finished crossing the roadway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2023
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2024
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Shin Sakurada, Kazuya Nishimura, Soutaro Kaneko
  • Patent number: 12146976
    Abstract: Examples include a system for controlling traffic signalling devices at an intersection, including a first radar sensor that detects road users in a first detection region on a first traffic route, outputting first radar sensor data indicating first sensor detected positions and a first sensor detected radial velocities, and a second radar sensor that detects road users in a second detection region on a second traffic route, outputting second sensor data indicating second sensor detected positions and a second sensor detected velocities. The first radar sensor and second radar sensor are at different locations, or different orientations, or both, and configured such that the first and second detection region have an overlap. An electronic data processing device combines the first radar sensor data and second radar sensor data into combination signals, and controls the traffic signalling devices based at least partially on the combination signals.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: November 19, 2024
    Assignee: S.M.S. SMART MICROWAVE SENSORS GMBH
    Inventor: Ralph Mende
  • Patent number: 12131636
    Abstract: A LED Traffic Light to aid people who have issues with color blindness. For the main LED traffic light, there is a solid matrix of LEDs on the complete face facing traffic. The light pattern displayed will indicate red, yellow, or green and the light patterns shown will differ for red, yellow, and green. Auxiliary lights can be employed with the main LED traffic light to indicate whether or not turns can be made.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 6, 2023
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2024
    Inventor: Christopher S. Moyer
  • Patent number: 12112619
    Abstract: A control device includes a control unit configured to execute controls of displaying, on a roadway, a first crosswalk toward a first side of a roadway and displaying, on the roadway, a second crosswalk toward a second side of the roadway, and concealing the first crosswalk from the first side toward the second side while a pedestrian is crossing the roadway from the first side to the second side through the first crosswalk and the second crosswalk and concealing the second crosswalk after the pedestrian has crossed the roadway. The second side is opposite to the first side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 11, 2023
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2024
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Shin Sakurada, Kazuya Nishimura, Soutaro Kaneko
  • Patent number: 11959768
    Abstract: A guidance control device is configured to control a projection device for projecting images. The guidance control device is configured to generate a subject-identifying image to be projected on a first projection range relating to a first position at which a subject person conducts a predetermined operation and to generate a guide image guiding the predetermined operation for the subject person to be projected on a second projection range relating to a second position viewable by the subject person. Accordingly, the guidance control device is able to control the projection device including the subject-identifying image and the guide image.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2019
    Date of Patent: April 16, 2024
    Assignee: NEC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Takanori Fujishima, Yuuzou Miyoshi, Tsutomu Maruyama, Takahiro Okamoto
  • Patent number: 11948457
    Abstract: An information processing device includes a controller configured to control display of a crosswalk on a road on which a vehicle travels. The controller outputs information to be displayed on a display device such that a driver of the vehicle visually recognizes advance notification information that makes advance notification of the display of the crosswalk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 8, 2022
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2024
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Shin Sakurada, Kazuya Nishimura, Soutaro Kaneko
  • Patent number: 11763667
    Abstract: A control device includes a control unit configured to execute controls of displaying, on a roadway, a first crosswalk toward a first side of a roadway and displaying, on the roadway, a second crosswalk toward a second side of the roadway, and concealing the first crosswalk from the first side toward the second side while a pedestrian is crossing the roadway from the first side to the second side through the first crosswalk and the second crosswalk and concealing the second crosswalk after the pedestrian has crossed the roadway. The second side is opposite to the first side.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 29, 2022
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2023
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Shin Sakurada, Kazuya Nishimura, Soutaro Kaneko
  • Patent number: 11721210
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a traffic light controller and a method of controlling a traffic light using the same. The traffic light controller according to the present invention includes an input unit configured to receive walking speed information of a pedestrian, a memory in which a program for controlling a traffic light using the walking speed information is stored, and a processor configured to execute the program, wherein the processor sets a lighting maintenance time of a green light of a pedestrian traffic light at a crosswalk using the walking speed information and changes the lighting maintenance time according to a result of monitoring a crossing situation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2021
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2023
    Assignee: HYUNDAI MOBIS CO., LTD.
    Inventor: Seung Jae Kim
  • Patent number: 11587438
    Abstract: A control apparatus is a control apparatus for causing light emitting devices to display a crosswalk when the control apparatus detects a pedestrian who is about to cross a road. The control apparatus includes a controlling portion configured to perform: detect, as a first vehicle, a vehicle traveling in a crosswalk display region where a crosswalk is to be displayed; determine whether or not the speed of the first vehicle is less than a reference speed; and in a case where the speed is less than the reference speed and a predetermined safety standard is satisfied, determine to cause the light emitting devices to display the crosswalk.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 21, 2023
    Assignee: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHA
    Inventors: Kazuya Nishimura, Shin Sakurada, Soutaro Kaneko
  • Patent number: 11501621
    Abstract: The disclosed technology uses signaling devices and sensors that are distributed throughout a building in order to provide egress guidance to people located in a building when an emergency occurs. Such signaling devices can be located at or near doors, windows, and/or other junction points between different parts of a building (e.g., passageways between different rooms). Signaling devices can provide audio and/or visual information to people to guide them along a safe pathway that is selected to provide safe egress for the person, including anticipating and protecting the person from changing emergency conditions within the building.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 14, 2021
    Date of Patent: November 15, 2022
    Assignee: LGHorizon, LLC
    Inventor: Russell G. Derickson
  • Patent number: 11367350
    Abstract: A feature-rich, improved vehicle traffic signal control system that uses network technology is provided herein. For example, the improved vehicle traffic signal control system may include a control box and light heads that include processors. The control box in the improved vehicle traffic signal control system may include fewer components and/or fewer wires extending therefrom as compared to a typical control box. In particular, the control box in the improved vehicle traffic signal control system may not include relays, a conflict monitor, or other similar components. Rather, the improved control box may simply include a controller that is coupled to various light heads via Ethernet cables. The Ethernet cables can carry electrical power, thereby providing power to the light heads. The light head processors can use network technology to control light activation, to perform conflict monitoring, to receive data from various sensors to adjust traffic flow, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 25, 2020
    Date of Patent: June 21, 2022
    Assignee: Systems Analysis & Integration, Inc.
    Inventor: Lawrence Anthony Pomatto
  • Patent number: 10854074
    Abstract: A feature-rich, improved vehicle traffic signal control system that uses network technology is provided herein. For example, the improved vehicle traffic signal control system may include a control box and light heads that include processors. The control box in the improved vehicle traffic signal control system may include fewer components and/or fewer wires extending therefrom as compared to a typical control box. In particular, the control box in the improved vehicle traffic signal control system may not include relays, a conflict monitor, or other similar components. Rather, the improved control box may simply include a controller that is coupled to various light heads via Ethernet cables. The Ethernet cables can carry electrical power, thereby providing power to the light heads. The light head processors can use network technology to control light activation, to perform conflict monitoring, to receive data from various sensors to adjust traffic flow, etc.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 15, 2019
    Date of Patent: December 1, 2020
    Assignee: Systems Analysis & Integration, Inc.
    Inventor: Lawrence Anthony Pomatto
  • Patent number: 10269239
    Abstract: Apparatuses, methods and storage media associated with controlling a pedestrian crossing or traffic light are disclosed herein. In embodiments, an apparatus may include a control unit to extend a duration of a pedestrian crossing state of the pedestrian crossing or traffic light in response to receipt of sensor data that convey detection of at least one commence crossing event of the pedestrian, while the pedestrian crossing or traffic light is in a pedestrian crossing state, but yet to receive sensor data that convey detection of all corresponding end of crossing event or events of the one or more pedestrians, prior to expiration of the duration of the pedestrian crossing state. The controller may extend the duration of the pedestrian crossing state until receipt of sensor data that convey receipt of all corresponding end of crossing event/events of the one or more pedestrians, or until a timeout threshold is reached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 27, 2017
    Date of Patent: April 23, 2019
    Assignee: Intel Corporation
    Inventors: Kevin Brady, Ruben Trejo Calle, Jelle Sels, Diarmaid O'Cualain, Aziz Bahri
  • Patent number: 10060748
    Abstract: An apparatus and method are provided for switching a navigation mode between a vehicle navigation mode and a pedestrian navigation mode. The apparatus includes a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver configured to receive a GPS signal; and a controller configured to calculate a speed of the apparatus by using the GPS signal received by the GPS receiver, compare the calculated speed of the apparatus with a threshold speed, and determine the navigation mode of the apparatus between the vehicle navigation mode and the pedestrian navigation mode based on the comparison.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 12, 2016
    Date of Patent: August 28, 2018
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Jae-Myeon Lee, Hyun-Su Hong, Sung-Chul Yang
  • Patent number: 9551584
    Abstract: Provided is an apparatus and method for switching a navigation mode between a vehicle navigation mode and a personal navigation mode in a navigation device supporting vehicle navigation and personal navigation. Switching between the vehicle navigation mode and the personal navigation mode is performed according to whether the navigation device is mounted in a navigation device holder, whether a GPS speed provided by a GPS receiver is higher than a predetermined speed, and whether a step is detected using an output of an accelerometer. Since mode switching between the vehicle navigation mode and the personal navigation mode is automatically performed, a user does not need to manually perform mode switching.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 22, 2016
    Date of Patent: January 24, 2017
    Assignee: Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd
    Inventors: Jae-Myeon Lee, Hyun-Su Hong, Sung-Chul Yang
  • Patent number: 8957789
    Abstract: A vehicle support information system mounted in a vehicle, the vehicle support system including: a man-detecting unit; a vehicle-position detecting unit; a communication unit; a man-position/waiting-score calculating unit; a stopping-vehicle determining unit determining whether or not the vehicle should be stopped, based on a man position and a waiting score of an at least one potential-crossing-man; a travelling controller for stopping the vehicle when the stopping-vehicle determining unit determines that the vehicle should be stopped; and a man-crossing-signal display unit displaying information to inform the at least one potential-crossing-man whether or not the at least one potential-crossing-man can safely cross the road, based on an instruction of the stopping-vehicle determining unit, wherein the man-position/waiting-score calculating unit outputs the man-position/waiting-score to the communication unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 2014
    Date of Patent: February 17, 2015
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshitaka Hara, Takuya Naka, Saku Egawa, Masashi Koga
  • Patent number: 8947265
    Abstract: A signal or lighting system synchronizes the flashing of multiple signal or lighting assemblies. When one of the assemblies is triggered, it broadcasts a temporally staggered sequence of signals, each signal instructing the receiving assemblies to initiate flashing of their beacons a given countdown time after that particular signal is transmitted. The countdown times of the various signals all count down to the same flashing start time so that the originating and receiving beacons all being flashing at the same time. The temporal diversity of the signals enhances the ability to overcome potential interference as at least one of the signals in the sequence is likely to be received by the destination assemblies.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: February 3, 2015
    Assignee: Carmanah Technologies Corp.
    Inventors: Bruce Bernard, Darren Beckwith
  • Publication number: 20140306836
    Abstract: Pedestrian call systems with bidirectional communication between pedestrian call stations and traffic controllers are arranged so as to detect system errors. Communications can be provided over power conductors, and systems can be configured and monitored using a web browser. In one example, traffic systems are provided with Ethernet interfaces that can be used for bidirectional communication over power lines.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2014
    Publication date: October 16, 2014
    Inventors: Philip Tate, Richard Wall, Craig Craviotto, Cody Browne, Zane Sapp, Gabriel Deruwe
  • Patent number: 8797184
    Abstract: Pedestrian call systems with bidirectional communication between pedestrian call stations and traffic controllers are arranged so as to detect system errors. Communications can be provided over power conductors, and systems can be configured and monitored using a web browser. In one example, traffic systems are provided with Ethernet interfaces that can be used for bidirectional communication over power lines.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 5, 2014
    Assignees: University of Idaho, Campbell Company
    Inventors: Philip Tate, Richard Wall, Craig Cravioto, Cody Browne, Zane Sapp, Gabriel Deruwe
  • Patent number: 8791837
    Abstract: Traffic signal timing may be altered as a function of determining occluded signal viewing. More particularly, processing units may determine that a view of a traffic signal by a person is obstructed by a vehicle located on a first ingress path to a roadway intersection with a second ingress path. The traffic signal controls the right of way of the first ingress path, and the person with the obstructed view is travelling along the first ingress path toward the intersection and is located behind the vehicle relative to a view sightline of the person to the traffic signal. In response to the occluded view determination, a transition of the traffic signal may be delayed from a current visual display of a proceed signal to a subsequent visual display of a stop signal, until an end of a delay period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2013
    Date of Patent: July 29, 2014
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: James D. Allen, Teresa L. Davis, Douglas E. Hanthorn
  • Patent number: 8786466
    Abstract: A wireless push button device and a method for wireless registration of request for activation of a desired pedestrian crosswalk signal system on an existing traffic signal pole comprising of a remote control and a receiver assembly wherein said remote control sends wireless signal to receiver assembly in order to register request for activating a pedestrian crosswalk signal system from a distance and the receiver assembly compares the received signal with that of stored values and sends back random signal for invalid signal, sends back encrypted signal for valid signal and walk signal OFF state and special signal for valid angle and walk signal ON state to the remote control whereby said remote control confirms activation of the pedestrian crosswalk signal system to an user by activating said LED, vibrator/buzzer and also confirms the user when it is safe to use crosswalk by turning on said LED and said vibrator/buzzer.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 12, 2014
    Date of Patent: July 22, 2014
    Inventor: Mohamad Motaz Aladas
  • Patent number: 8749401
    Abstract: A vehicle support system for supporting a man in safely crossing a road without crosswalks installed is provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 9, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 10, 2014
    Assignee: Hitcha, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshitaka Hara, Takuya Naka, Saku Egawa, Masashi Koga
  • Patent number: 8738280
    Abstract: Methods for pedestrian unit (PU) communication activity reduction in pedestrian-to-vehicle communication networks include obtaining safety risk information for a pedestrian at risk for involvement in an accident and using the risk information to adjust a PU communication activity. In some embodiments, the activity reduction is achieved without implementing understanding of surroundings. In other embodiments, the activity reduction is based on risk assessment provided by vehicles. In some embodiments, the activity reduction includes PU transmission reduction. In some embodiments the transmission activity reduction may be followed by reception activity reduction for overall power consumption reduction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 10, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 27, 2014
    Assignee: Autotalks Ltd.
    Inventor: Onn Haran
  • Patent number: 8730060
    Abstract: The change of the status of a traffic light at a crosswalk is controlled based on an impaired individual's location with respect to the crosswalk. An appropriate alert indicating the status of the traffic light is determined based at least on the location of the impaired individual. The type of impairment may also be used in determining the appropriate alert. The appropriate alert is generated to inform the impaired individual of the status of the traffic light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2013
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2014
    Assignee: AT&T Mobility II LLC
    Inventors: DeWayne Sennett, Brian Daly
  • Patent number: 8674849
    Abstract: An information display terminal allows a user to grasp rapidly and surely the direction to a destination, and can guide the user to the destination without placing a burden on the user. The information display terminal is provided at a passage, and its display screen displays a route guidance screen that guides a route to the destination. The route guidance screen displays a pseudo-action image that shows the walking motion, and a destination display information image indicating a destination name such as “Subway Ticket Gate”. The action image shows the motion of walking toward the destination, but the display position does not change. The destination display information image is displayed in front of the action image in the advancing direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 15, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Takeshi Hoshino, Youichi Horii, Tadaaki Ishikawa, Yukiko Ichige, Hiroki Sato
  • Patent number: 8665115
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for conflict monitoring and error detection in accessible pedestrian signal systems. A primary conflict monitor and error detector is configured to control output of audible and vibrotactile pedestrian signal indications. The primary conflict monitor and error detector monitors the current traffic state, and verifies audio and vibrotactile control signals against the current traffic state and user settings to determine whether to enable output of audible and vibrotactile pedestrian signal indications. The primary conflict monitor and error detector may transmit information about the audio and vibrotactile control signals to a secondary conflict monitor and error detector, which verifies the information received against the current traffic state and user settings, and inhibits output of audible and vibrotactile pedestrian signal indications in the event of a detected conflict or error.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2011
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2014
    Assignee: Novax Industries Corporation
    Inventors: Douglas Gubbe, David Philip Atnikov
  • Patent number: 8633833
    Abstract: Traffic signal timing may be altered as a function of determining occluded signal viewing. More particularly, processing units may determine that a view of a traffic signal by a person is obstructed by a large vehicle located on a first ingress path to a roadway intersection with a second ingress path. The traffic signal controls the right of way of the first ingress path, and the person with the obstructed view is travelling along the first ingress path toward the intersection and is located behind the large vehicle relative to a view sightline of the person to the traffic signal. In response to the occluded view determination, a transition of the traffic signal may be delayed from a current visual display of a proceed signal to a subsequent visual display of a stop signal, until an end of a delay period.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2014
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: James D. Allen, Teresa L. Davis, Douglas E. Hanthorn
  • Patent number: 8629785
    Abstract: A traffic resource allocation method is provided for allocating traffic resources around an intersection formed by a first road and a second road. The method includes dividing the first road into two or more first lanes at a first direction and two or more second lanes at a second direction opposite but parallel to the first direction. The method also includes dividing the second road into two or more third lanes at a third direction and two or more four lanes at a fourth direction opposite but parallel to the third direction. Further, the method includes controlling traffic movements in the intersection by allocating traffic permit to both pedestrian traffic and vehicle traffic on the first road and the second road. The method also include, when permitting pedestrian traffic along the first direction and the second direction, permitting through vehicle traffic along the first direction and the second direction, and prohibiting turn traffic at any of the first, second, third, and fourth directions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2012
    Date of Patent: January 14, 2014
    Inventor: Jiantong Ni
  • Patent number: 8564423
    Abstract: A method and a system on a vehicle for activating a pedestrian protection device that has one or more sensors coupled to a fascia of the vehicle and activates the pedestrian protection device if the signal from a sensor is greater than a minimum threshold and less than a maximum threshold. Coupling the one or more sensors to the fascia improves sensitivity for detecting a collision with a pedestrian when compared to systems that do not couple the sensors to the fascia. Comparing the sensor signal to a minimum threshold and a maximum threshold helps avoid inappropriate or ineffective deployment of the pedestrian protection device. When multiple sensors are used, the location of the pedestrian collision on the fascia may be determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 22, 2013
    Assignee: Delphi Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: David J. Nichols, Russell L. Simpson
  • Publication number: 20130271296
    Abstract: The change of the status of a traffic light at a crosswalk is controlled based on an impaired individual's location with respect to the crosswalk. An appropriate alert indicating the status of the traffic light is determined based at least on the location of the impaired individual. The type of impairment may also be used in determining the appropriate alert, The appropriate alert is generated to inform the impaired individual of the status of the traffic light.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 10, 2013
    Publication date: October 17, 2013
    Inventors: DeWayne Sennett, Brian Daly
  • Patent number: 8462017
    Abstract: The change of the status of a traffic light at a crosswalk is controlled based on an impaired individual's location with respect to the crosswalk. An appropriate alert indicating the status of the traffic light is determined based at least on the location of the impaired individual. The type of impairment may also be used in determining the appropriate alert. The appropriate alert is generated to inform the impaired individual of the status of the traffic light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2013
    Assignee: AT&T Mobility II LLC
    Inventors: DeWayne Sennett, Brian Daly
  • Patent number: 8384562
    Abstract: A mobile traffic controller to aid pedestrians includes a wireless transmitter and receiver that are configured to communicate with a traffic signal or a traffic control system. In response to a user request, the transmitter sends a traffic control request to a traffic signal or a traffic system controller. The request is acknowledged, and when appropriate, the mobile traffic controller receives a message indicating that a crossing is authorized. The mobile controller can include a vibro-tactile or audio output device for communication with the user. In addition, position and orientation systems can be included so that the user can be directed along a preferred path or alerted that a predetermined or legally established passage zone has been exited or is about to be exited.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: University of Idaho
    Inventors: Richard W. Wall, Gabriel DeRuwe
  • Publication number: 20120307063
    Abstract: A traffic indicating device includes a support body, a traffic indicating assembly, an illuminating assembly, and a control module. The support body comprises a main portion and an arm portion perpendicular connected to an end of the main portion. The traffic indicating assembly is mounted to the support body. The illuminating assembly comprises a rod portion mounted to the end of the support body opposite to the arm portion and a light mounted on a distal end of the rod portion. The control module controls the traffic indicating assembly to indicate the traffic and controls the light to illuminating the road.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 25, 2011
    Publication date: December 6, 2012
    Applicant: HON HAI PRECISION INDUSTRY CO., LTD.
    Inventor: CHUN-AN LAI
  • Patent number: 8274404
    Abstract: The change of the status of a traffic light at a crosswalk is controlled based on an impaired individual's location with respect to the crosswalk. An appropriate alert indicating the status of the traffic light is determined based at least on the location of the impaired individual. The type of impairment may also be used in determining the appropriate alert. The appropriate alert is generated to inform the impaired individual of the status of the traffic light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 14, 2009
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: AT&T Mobility II LLC
    Inventors: DeWayne Sennett, Brian Daly
  • Patent number: 8269654
    Abstract: A flashing beacon may include a signal unit, a control unit associated with the signal unit, a solar panel or collector, and an activation device that may all be mounted or otherwise positioned on a post of a roadway sign. Light units associated with the signal unit may be programmed to flash on and off in a unique wig-wag pattern. Further, a light bar may also be used with the beacon to generate an intense flash of light soon after activation of the beacon as an additional means of grabbing the attention of the operator of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 12, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2012
    Inventor: Richard D. Jones
  • Patent number: 8160300
    Abstract: A first pedestrian judging unit judges, on the basis of the size and motion state of a target three-dimensional object, whether the object is a pedestrian. A second pedestrian judging unit judges, on the basis of shape data on the object, whether the object is a pedestrian. A pedestrian judging unit finally determines that the object is a pedestrian when both the first and second pedestrian judging units judge the object as a pedestrian, when the second pedestrian judging unit judges the object as a pedestrian, when the first pedestrian judging unit judges the object as a pedestrian and a result of this judgment is held for a preset period, or when the first pedestrian judging unit judges the object as a pedestrian in a current judgment operation and the second pedestrian judging unit judged the object as a pedestrian in the previous judging operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 17, 2012
    Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Toyokazu Ogasawara
  • Publication number: 20110309952
    Abstract: Methods and systems are provided for conflict monitoring and error detection in accessible pedestrian signal systems. A primary conflict monitor and error detector is configured to control output of audible and vibrotactile pedestrian signal indications. The primary conflict monitor and error detector monitors the current traffic state, and verifies audio and vibrotactile control signals against the current traffic state and user settings to determine whether to enable output of audible and vibrotactile pedestrian signal indications. The primary conflict monitor and error detector may transmit information about the audio and vibrotactile control signals to a secondary conflict monitor and error detector, which verifies the information received against the current traffic state and user settings, and inhibits output of audible and vibrotactile pedestrian signal indications in the event of a detected conflict or error.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 17, 2011
    Publication date: December 22, 2011
    Inventors: Douglas Donald GUBBE, David Philip ATNIKOV
  • Patent number: 8081087
    Abstract: A flashing beacon may include a signal unit, a control unit associated with the signal unit, a solar panel or collector, and an activation device that may all be mounted or otherwise positioned on a post of a roadway sign. Light units associated with the signal unit may be programmed to flash on and off in a unique wig-wag pattern. Further, a light bar may also be used with the beacon to generate an intense flash of light soon after activation of the beacon as an additional means of grabbing the attention of the operator of a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 6, 2007
    Date of Patent: December 20, 2011
    Inventor: Richard D. Jones
  • Patent number: 8063795
    Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention is an illuminated stop sign for allowing pedestrians to control traffic. The system comprises a fixed support assembly; a pedestrian activated mechanism; a timer set for a predetermined period of time when the pedestrian activated mechanism is activated; and an octagonal display nonremovably mounted to the fixed support assembly comprising a backlight within the display and a display surface comprising a word “STOP” visible when the backlight is illuminated and substantially not visible when the backlight is not illuminated, the backlight being illuminated until the predetermined period of time is expired.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2009
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventors: David Ross, William Lloyd
  • Patent number: 7889093
    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.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 15, 2011
    Inventor: Carrie P. Thomas
  • Patent number: 7864072
    Abstract: A system, program product and method for automatically adjusting the traffic light of a traffic light controlled intersection. Personal data relative to a pedestrian cross walking the intersection, including walking speed, and the current speed of a vehicle approaching the intersection are simultaneously acquired. Both the personal data and the vehicle current speed are processed to generate cross walk control signals, such as indicators of risk of collision between vehicle and pedestrian. Where the risk warrants action, the “stop” condition of the traffic light is enable to warn the vehicle to stop. Traffic control signals are also generated to control the duration of the “walk” condition for slow moving pedestrians.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 17, 2008
    Date of Patent: January 4, 2011
    Assignee: International Business Machines Corporation
    Inventors: Sara H. Basson, Wilfredo Ferre, Julien Ghez, Dimitri Kanevsky, Frances W. West
  • Patent number: 7855660
    Abstract: This invention provides a pedestrian signal system not only for normal pedestrians but also for the blind, the disabled person of weak sight, and the illiterate by displaying the remaining time of each signal change in image figures at the signal head and by generating a voice signal in real time. It reduces the cost of the system fabrication, installation and maintenance of the system by combining the five functions of the pedestrian signals such as a walk signal, a stop signal, a remaining time of each signal of red/green and/or the voice generator for blinds in one signal head. Also, this invention provides the useful double safety traffic signal system especially for a school zone by installing LED studs on the stop line at crossroad for warning drivers by blinking the LED studs automatically when the walk signal is in on-mode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 2006
    Date of Patent: December 21, 2010
    Inventors: Jong Hae Kim, Tommy Y. Kim, Kyoung Ja Han
  • Patent number: 7852234
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for controlling cross-walk boundary lighting, such as multiple flush-mounted lights on the boundary, or boundaries, of a cross-walk. Enhanced flashing patterns are output in a primary output to drive cross-walk lighting to produce a different output pattern with each cross-walk activation. Enhanced flashing patterns comprise the output of multiple pulses of light (e.g., 2 to 5) with various pulse widths and timing during the ON portion of the light cycle. Selection is performed from a plurality of enhanced flashing patterns retained within a cross-walk lighting controller. One or more secondary outputs are configured to generate other patterns, in particular an output with a field selectable relationship and synchronization to the primary pattern, such as a matching pattern, a non-enhanced version, a non-enhanced complementary pattern, or a solid output for as long as the primary output is active.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 2008
    Date of Patent: December 14, 2010
    Assignee: Traffic Safety Corp.
    Inventors: Steve Borenstein, Kyle J. Owens
  • Publication number: 20100214127
    Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention is an illuminated stop sign for allowing pedestrians to control traffic. The system comprises a fixed support assembly; a pedestrian activated mechanism; a timer set for a predetermined period of time when the pedestrian activated mechanism is activated; and an octagonal display nonremovably mounted to the fixed support assembly comprising a backlight within the display and a display surface comprising a word “STOP” visible when the backlight is illuminated and substantially not visible when the backlight is not illuminated, the backlight being illuminated until the predetermined period of time is expired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 26, 2009
    Publication date: August 26, 2010
    Inventors: William Lloyd, David Ross
  • Patent number: 7777646
    Abstract: System and method alerting drivers approaching a pedestrian crossing and notifying them of the presence of a pedestrian on the pedestrian crossing or any other accidents-prone road sections. By this, an additional traffic safety measure is provided. The presence of the pedestrian crossing marking is not always sufficient. Thus, the proposed system and method are also directed at providing a forgiving infrastructure for both inattentive drivers and jaywalking pedestrians. The system and method utilize movement and weight sensors to detect a movement upon a pedestrian crossing and its vicinity. After negating a possibility that this movement is caused by a passing vehicle, the system invokes illuminating indicators directed at approaching drivers, alerting them to the presence of a pedestrian on the pedestrian crossing. The system may be calibrated to optimize the detection rate, minimizing false alarm and no detection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2007
    Date of Patent: August 17, 2010
    Inventors: Moshe Konforty, Yuval Erez, Omer Bernard Ben Dor
  • Patent number: 7764193
    Abstract: A traffic regulation system (100) includes a first traffic light (110) for controlling traffic in a first direction, a second traffic light (120) for controlling traffic in a second direction intersecting the first direction, an infrared light detector (130) for receiving an infrared light signal transmitted from a pedestrian proceeding in the second direction on a pedestrian crossing and producing a corresponding feedback signal associated with the infrared light signal, and a control unit (160) for receiving the feedback signal from the infrared light detector and instructing the first traffic light and the second traffic light to signal the pedestrian to proceed in the second direction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2007
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2010
    Assignee: Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ga-Lane Chen
  • Patent number: 7601928
    Abstract: A pedestrian push button that discourages vandals and resists weather-related damage. The plunger is contained in a sleek, solid housing formed by a cup-shaped front cover that overlaps and substantially encloses a shallower, cup-shaped body, to protect the electrical components inside. The body is attachable from the inside to the traffic pole or other support surface, and the cover engages the body by means of a “twist-lock” connection that is hidden from view in the installed device. This reduces the appeal of the push button to vandals while at the same time making it easier for authorized personnel to open the housing for service and repair. The back of the body is contoured to conform to both flat and curved support surfaces, making the push button easy to mount securely regardless of the shape of the support surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 5, 2008
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2009
    Assignee: Pelco Products, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert D. Magness, Kerry B. Milligan, Stephen P. Parduhn, Kevin S. Shook, Raymond M. Woods
  • Patent number: 7551104
    Abstract: A method called as a time-differential-ratio method and its apparatus used for intersection traffic control that differentially operates on the traffic so as to change pass-permit direction with traffic status in time is disclosed. The method includes the steps of starting, timing, vehicle-requesting, extra-moving, ratio-moving, and recycling. Unlike a common control method called as macro-estimate control method that forces changeable traffic to follow a given period and direction turn order to pass, which causes lots of stops and wait, a differential operations on the traffic are integrated with a common ratio control method and walker signals. It shows the operating features and the effective characteristic of both micro-time control and macro ratio control, which lets a vehicle arriving first pass first conditionally, is good for real-time arbitrary traffic pattern control, and leads to great reduction of stops and wait.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 23, 2009
    Inventor: Welping Meng
  • Patent number: RE40737
    Abstract: A transparent lens for motorist traffic light signals and pedestrian “Don't Walk” signs that displays, in Lcd countdown “real-time”, how much time remains before the traffic signal command will change. The lens is easily shaped to be adapted over any existing traffic control device or magnified over the existing control device and works in conjunction with existing technology for timing and control settings to provide a quick and economical installation. The covering lens is a traffic light signaling device combination manufactured as one assembly and comprised of known colored liquid crystal (LED), plasma or pixel generators or other imaging generating technology which is quickly affixed to existing signaling traffic devices.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 16, 2003
    Date of Patent: June 16, 2009
    Inventor: Paul A. Firestone