Abstract: A device for monitoring around a vehicle capable of detecting objects present around the vehicle based on an image captured by at least one infrared camera member provided with the vehicle. The device includes a binary object extraction unit which subjects a gray scale image of the image captured by the infrared camera member to a binary thresholding method, and extracts a binary object from the gray scale image; a gray scale object extraction unit which extracts a gray scale object, a range of the gray scale object including the binary object, from the gray scale image based on change in luminance of the gray scale image, and a pedestrian determination unit which sets a search area in an area including the gray scale object, and recognizes a pedestrian in the gray scale image based on a luminance variance in the search area.

Abstract: A vibrating push button station to be associated with a standard traffic signal of the kind used to control vehicular traffic at an intersection so that visually impaired pedestrians will be alerted when the pedestrian WALK signal is illuminated after first pressing a push button. The push button station includes an electromagnetic assembly that is adapted to generate a changing magnetic field following the depression of the push button. A magnet coupled to the push button by way of a flexible diaphragm is either pulled towards and repelled or simply released by the electromagnetic assembly as the magnetic field changes. The opposite movements of the magnet relative to the electromagnetic assembly is transmitted to the push button as a vibration so that the hand of a user will receive a tactile indication at the push button when vehicular traffic has been halted.

Abstract: A unit for pedestrian control of traffic lights operated by a traffic light controller, comprises a casing adapted to be mounted to a traffic light post, the casing having a bottom face carrying a window, and a photocell mounted in the casing for directing a beam through the window in a downward direction generally parallel to the post to which the casing is mounted. The photocell is responsive to the presence of a pedestrian's hand placed beneath the window in the beam. The photocell is adapted to be operatively connected to the traffic light controller to send a signal thereto when the presence of a pedestrian has been detected.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically opening a swinging restroom door is provided. The apparatus comprises an actuator, a control unit, and a power assisted drive mechanism that can be connected to an existing door closing mechanism. The actuator comprises a proximity sensor and further comprises a series of iconic symbols corresponding to predetermined proximity zones. The control unit is in electronic communication with the actuator with which signals are exchanged. The power assisted drive mechanism is in electronic communication with the control unit and can be connected to an existing door closing mechanism wherein the actions of the door closing mechanism are reversed and the door is opened.

Abstract: In an airport terminal 1, an identification tag 5 for transmitting inherent identification tag information and its position information is handed to a customer 6. The information is received by a tag recognition apparatus 2 and transferred to a recognition PC 8 which analyzes the received information and transmits the analysis result to an image data server 9. The server 9 reads out image data for a guidance convenient to the customer 6. An image creation PC 10 generates a guidance image signal base on the image data and transmits it to an image projector 3 closest to the customer 6 thereby to display a guidance image 4 on a floor surface 1a near the customer 6. If the customer 6 has enough time, the guidance information of available facilities is displayed as a part of the guidance image 4.

Abstract: An LED traffic signal with a display indicating the remaining interval for the current display mode. A switching power supply provides cost of manufacturing and operational efficiencies. Interference with logic circuitry normally associated with switching power supplies is prevented by noise filtering circuitry and isolated ground planes on the printed circuit board.

Abstract: An impaired person is provided with a personalized accessibility device, which communicates an identification of a disability or impairment to an assistance device, which provides assistance. Also provided is a method and apparatus for providing feedback to a person with impairment. The feedback may be configured based on the type and extent of impairment, as well as personal preferences, such as a preferred language. The assistance device may also request a response from the disabled or impaired person, thus solving the person's Special Needs in a conversational manner without calling attention to the impairment.

Abstract: A traffic signal includes a micro-controller in communication with a switching system. The micro-controller executes a process for controlling a signal indicator according to a selected signal cycle. First and second actuators communicate with the corresponding first and second input terminals of the micro-controller. The first actuator causes the micro-controller to execute a first signal cycle. The second actuator causes the micro-controller to execute a second signal cycle.

Abstract: A traffic light displaying remaining time on itself is developed with this invention characterized by a numerical display of the remaining time on the light, in which a traffic light and a backwards counter is combined within the same unit, and if necessary, in which data is not received with or without a cable from anywhere including the junction control device to which it is connected, which can be placed in the spot of the current signal transmitter light, in which the sizes, colours, digit forms and number of digits may be altered, which consists of various number of light sources where the size of the numbers can be fitted in the standard signal transmitters and can be easily read, and which can be controlled by a micro computerized electronic circuit.

Abstract: A traffic signal light is caused to have improved visual perceptibility and distinctiveness by the addition of blue light sources that interact with the conventional red and green lights to alter their hues. The blue light sources have a rapidly varying intensity, producing a flickering effect. The combination of the change in hue and flickering effect causes the red and green lights to attract greater visual attention and to be more readily distinguished from other lights encountered during driving, especially during night-time driving.

Abstract: An accessory brake light system for a vehicle comprising a secondary brake light attached to a front of said vehicle. A power source is provided for supplying power to a primary brake light. The primary brake light is attached to the rear of the vehicle. A switch connects the power to the primary brake light when the brake is engaged by an operator which causes the primary brake light to illuminate. A delay mechanism is provided which is capable of determining a delay period after the brake is engaged and the power is connected to the secondary brake light after te delay period thereby illuminating the secondary brake light.

Abstract: A traffic warning system which alerts approaching vehicle traffic to the approach of a train in a crossing. The system includes a plurality of surface mounted lights partially embedded in and placed across a roadway. Once activated, the flashing lights warn drivers of approaching vehicles that the train is approaching, and that caution should be exercised.

Abstract: A method and apparatus to alert motorists of an impending change of a traffic signal includes a traffic signal assembly (10) including individual red, yellow and green signal lights, with control circuitry (2) to sequentially illuminate the green signal light as a constant green for a first portion T1a of time interval T1, followed by a flashing green for a second portion T1b of interval T1, after which the yellow signal illuminates for time T2, the red signal for a time T3, and the cycle repeats. Thus, instead of the green light remaining constantly illuminated during its entire period of timed operation, the modified circuitry causes the green light to flash for the last portion of its operation, thereby indicating to the motorist that the signal is about to change to yellow.

Abstract: A pedestrian push button assembly for activating a signal generator to generate a signal at a street crosswalk. The pedestrian push button assembly has a rigid frame having a piezoelectric material of a solid state switch positioned across a central aperture, and an elastic sealing ring positioned in a groove surrounding the piezoelectric material. A button is secured to the rigid frame such that (1) a seal contact portion of the button sealably rests against the elastic sealing ring, (2) a very small space separates an abutment surface of the button and a stopper surface of the rigid frame, and (3) an elastic pressure portion of the button contacts the piezoelectric material. When operated, the elastic sealing ring is sufficiently biased to urge the elastic pressure portion against the piezoelectric material to generate a signal pulse.

Abstract: A robotic traffic signalling device for reducing the need for deploying workers at various construction sites.

Abstract: A navigation device at least includes a CPU and a detector generating a detection signal for determining whether a main device is used inside a vehicle or not. If determining, based on the detection signal from the detector, that the main device is used inside the vehicle, the CPU operates in on-vehicle mode to carry out first navigation (present position estimation and route search) suitable for use in the vehicle. Otherwise, the CPU operates in off-vehicle mode to carry out second navigation (present position estimation and route search) suitable for use outside of the vehicle. Thus, the navigation device can automatically switch its operation mode between on-vehicle mode and off-vehicle mode.

Abstract: A traffic warning system which alerts approaching vehicle traffic to the presence of a pedestrian in a crosswalk. The system includes a plurality of surface mounted lights partially embedded in and placed across a roadway. The lights are activated by the pedestrian, either by manual switch or by a sensor, before he enters the crosswalk. Once activated, the flashing lights warn drivers of approaching vehicles that the pedestrian may have entered the crosswalk, and that caution should be exercised.

Abstract: The collision with pedestrian prevention system according to the present invention comprises pedestrian detection means, road surface conditions detection means, road information accumulation means, vehicle position detection means, vehicle state detection means, processing means, information output means, and vehicle control means. Because of the configuration, the driver is alerted the presence of any pedestrian on a pedestrian's crossing and can immediately correct operations for handling the vehicle without being perplexed by the information just about to finish crossing the road. This system works only when there is the possibility of collision between a pedestrian on a pedestrian's crossing and a vehicle, and provides automatic controls for decelerating or stopping the vehicle when the driver can stop the vehicle by emergently braking over a distance from the vehicle to the pedestrian's crossing.

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.

Abstract: A device for presenting multiple illuminated messages and a method for making same. The device includes a uniformly thick panel of transparent material having at least one elongated and continuous passageway therein forming a message to be indicated. The passageway is filled with gas and materials that emit light.

Abstract: An exit guard system automatically detects movement of a subject along an exit path in an unauthorized direction. A first video camera is positioned for video imaging movement of a subject along the path, while a second video camera images the subject for identification. Multiple video motion detectors operate in conjunction with the first video camera to determine direction of movement of a subject along the path. A CPU operates with the video motion detectors under an exit guard program to provide a watching mode, during which frames of the second video camera are continuously grabbed and saved. Audible and/or visual alarm signaling devices are operated by the CPU in an alarm mode in response to traffic of a subject in the unauthorized direction. A video monitor displays modes of operation of the system, and control devices allow operator selection and control of modes of operation of the system. Remote access to the system for control, monitoring or other purposes is provided by data modem feature.

Abstract: A smart cross electronic traffic sign for the control of vehicle and pedestrian traffic with programming and control by infrared remote control. The device is lightweight and easily portable. Messages can be displayed in the color of the normal traffic sign for the condition displayed. An audible message duplicates the message displayed.

Abstract: A remotely controlled, portable, automated flagman includes a shaft rotatably supported by a housing containing the drive mechanism and control electronics to selectively turn the shaft such that a "stop" or a "slow" sign is displayed at the option of a user. The user controls the display of the "stop" and "slow" signs by a remote control unit. A tripod or other type of support structure is attached to the housing so as to support the traffic control sign at the proper height above the ground. The automated flagman of the present invention can take the place of a human flagman with a handheld sign in zones where temporary traffic control is needed.

Abstract: The electric traffic light, with acoustic signs and with an indication of backward counting includes lights prepared in three sectors with signaling screens that are controlled by a processor electrically linked to an optic and numeric counter. The circuit of optic formation is programmed in sequence and time to emit activation signals to certain sections of the lights to provide the brightness of the light on each screen. The circuit of the numeric formation is programmed to send signals of interruption of the power supply, simultaneously with the optic circuit, to certain sectors of the lights to provide visualization of numbers. Further, simultaneously with the optic and numeric circuit, a sound emitter emits a sound with each color.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically supplying a flashing line voltage from power stored in an auxiliary battery to power red traffic signal lamps using clusters of light emitting diodes during a blackout condition. A plurality of flash block connectors are pin-to-pin compatible with the flash block jumper blocks of an already installed traffic light control system so that the existing system is retrofitted without any cabinet or field rewiring or any cutting or crimping of the wires.

Abstract: A lamp comprising an array of solid state lights, using light emitting diodes (LED's) has a massed arrangement of LED lights, the number of which may exceed the capacity of the face area of the lamp, such that a high intensity of light is achieved, being accomodated within the envelope of the lamp by being positioned at an angle from the face of the lamp. In one system embodiment, as a replacement for, and using the form of an incandescent lamp, the LED lights are mounted in substantial coincidence with the shape of the incandescent lamp reflector, to provide an area of light source concentration larger than the projected area of the lamp. In another embodiment for a lamp having a circular face, such as a traffic light, the massed lights are arranged as an annular strip facing inwardly towards the polar axis of the lamp. A conical reflector directs the light outwardly, to provide the required intensity of illumination.

Abstract: A crosswalk warning light system for warning drivers that a pedestrian has entered a crosswalk by shining a light onto the crosswalk and any pedestrians in the crosswalk. The crosswalk warning light system detects a pedestrian entering the crosswalk and activates the light so that a driver can see and avoid the pedestrian in the crosswalk. The crosswalk warning light system is timed so as to deactivate the light after a predetermined interval of time. The light source is selected from any conventional light source such as a scanning laser, a focused strobe light, or a focused incandescent light. The light source is supported above the crosswalk and aimed down toward the crosswalk so that the entire area defined by the crosswalk is illuminated. Further, by aiming the light source down on the crosswalk, the pedestrians are also illuminated.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an LED traffic signal light containing numerous LEDs and a voltage compensation circuit which allows the traffic light to operate over a wide range of input power voltages, while generating sufficient light intensity to control traffic at a highway intersection. The voltage compensation circuit achieves these objectives without substantially increasing the power consumption, overall cost, or failure rate of the LED traffic signal light. In the preferred embodiment, the voltage compensation circuit disables or rearranges a first and then a second set of LEDs in the traffic light, as the input power voltage drops below a first and then a second threshold voltage, so that the remaining LEDs will be driven by an increased current and generate a greater overall light intensity than if all of the LEDs were driven by the decreased current that would result from the decreased input power voltage.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for prompting pedestrians to look and listen for turning vehicles includes an animated pictorial message formed in the image of a pair of scanning eyes (46,48) and generated by a pedestrian signal control (54) connected to a pedestrian signal display (32). The image (46,48) can be activated by a traffic control (52) or a motion detector (64) connected to the pedestrian signal control (54). A voice circuit (56) and speakers (58) connected to the pedestrian signal control (54) generate an audible message at the same time the image (46,48) is being displayed.

Abstract: A cross-walk warning light system for warning drivers that a pedestrian has entered a cross-walk by shining a light, preferably a laser, having a beam parallel to the cross-walk. The cross-walk warning light system detects a pedestrian entering the cross-walk and activates a light that is aimed across the intersection, thus the driver sees this beam of light, which is projected across the intersection and is warned of the presence of a pedestrian in the cross-walk. The cross-walk warning light system is timed so as to deactivate the light after a predetermined interval of time. In the preferred embodiment, a first and an adjacent laser are spaced apart a distance substantially the width of the crosswalk, provide parallel beams of light on each side of the cross-walk. Also in the preferred embodiment, a second laser, disposed at the opposite end of the crosswalk, provides a second beam of light, aimed substantially co-linearly with the first.

Abstract: A traffic light timer is provided that provides a visible and accurate warning that a traffic light signal is about to change. The time remaining before the change is displayed in numeric form on a display and visibly counts down the seconds remaining. In one configuration of the invention, the display is alphanumeric. In another configuration the display is graphical allowing for the display of free form icons. The icon library is contained on an easily replaced icon memory module.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an LED traffic signal light containing numerous LEDs and a voltage compensation circuit which allows the traffic light to operate over a wide range of input power voltages, while generating sufficient light intensity to control traffic at a highway intersection. The voltage compensation circuit achieves these objectives without substantially increasing the power consumption, overall cost, or failure rate of the LED traffic signal light. In the preferred embodiment, the voltage compensation circuit disables or rearranges a first and then a second set of LEDs in the traffic light, as the input power voltage drops below a first and then a second threshold voltage, so that the remaining LEDs will be driven by an increased current and generate a greater overall light intensity than if all of the LEDs were driven by the decreased current that would result from the decreased input power voltage.

Abstract: A traffic signal device having a single, continuously-illuminating lamp and several plain reflectors constructed by optical thin film technique to receive the light beam projected from the lamp and respectively reflecting light components of pre-determined wavelengths to display differently-colored traffic signals. Also, is a lamp detection system which monitors and detects the operation of the lamp and generates a signal to actuate the lamp interchanging mechanism to automatically replace the lamp with a spare lamp once the lamp malfunctions.

Abstract: A cross-walk warning light system for warning drivers that a pedestrian has entered a cross-walk by shining a light, preferably a laser, having a beam parallel to the cross-walk. The cross-walk warning light system detects a pedestrian entering the cross-walk and activates a light that is aimed across the intersection, thus the driver sees this beam of light, which is projected across the intersection and is warned of the presence of a pedestrian in the cross-walk. The cross-walk warning light system is timed so as to deactivate the light after a predetermined interval of time. In the preferred embodiment, a first and an adjacent laser are spaced apart a distance substantially the width of the crosswalk, provide parallel beams of light on each side of the cross-walk. Also in the preferred embodiment, a second laser, disposed at the opposite end of the crosswalk, provides a second beam of light, aimed substantially co-linearly with the first.

Abstract: Sound signaling and optical signaling at a crosswalk are both activated by a single push button. An activation of optical signaling such as green and red figurines is immediate, whereas the transmission of a sound message authorizing or forbidding a crossing is activated only when the pedestrian pushes the button for a predetermined time. The generation device for sound signals is controlled by a microprocessor including logic and analog inputs and outputs, the messages being stored in digital form and transmitted according to the ADPCM method.

Abstract: A traffic message signal device includes a housing having a display structure. The display structure includes a non-reflective support panel supporting a plurality of light-emitting diode elements arranged in a configuration defining a traffic-related message. The light-emitting diode elements are high intensity limited dispersion L.E.D.s which emit light in an attenuated angular spread about a central axis. The light-emitting diode elements are supported on board members with their central axis generally parallel to each other and generally perpendicular to the support panel.

Abstract: A pedestrian crossing signal which incorporates a face plate having a "WALK" symbol and a "DONT WALK" symbol. The "WALK" symbol is illuminated by a mercury vapor tubular lamp mounted on the planar rear wall of a housing and which emits white light, and the "DONT WALK" symbol is illuminated by a neon tubular lamp also mounted on the planar rear wall of the housing and which emits red or orange light. At least a portion of the rear wall of the housing on which the tubular lamps are mounted is formed of heat conductive material. This material serves to conduct heat from the neon lamp to the mercury vapor lamp when the former is illuminated to obviate any likelihood of failure of the mercury vapor lamp to become illuminated when it is energized even in cold weather.

Abstract: A system for controlling vehicles and pedestrians on intersecting one-way roadways. Vehicles on a first one-way street are only allowed, with a "go" signal to either cross the intersection and continue on the street or to turn onto the intersecting one-way street. The vehicles on the intersecting, second one-way street are stopped while vehicles on the first street are moving. During this time pedestrians are allowed to cross in front of the stopped vehicles on the second one-way street. Then, when the light changes, the vehicle traffic on the second one-way street are only allowed to turn onto the first one-way street, i.e., they are blocked from crossing the intersection and continuing onto the second one-way street. During this time, the vehicles on the first one-way street are blocked, too, from entering the intersection.

Abstract: A traffic control device includes a housing having a display structure. The display structure includes a non-reflective support panel supporting a plurality of light emitting diode elements arranged in a configuration defining a traffic control symbol. The light emitting diode elements are high intensity limited dispersion L.E.D.'s which emit light in an attenuated angular spread about a central axis. The light emitting diode elements are supported on with their control axis generally parallel to each other and generally perpendicular to the support panel.

Abstract: A neon-type pedestrian traffic signal which includes a housing. A partition divides the housing into two separate compartments, each compartment having a parabolic-shaped rear wall covered with a suitable reflective substance. A tubular-type neon lamp is mounted in each compartment as the focal point of the corresponding parabolic-shaped rear wall. Each neon lamp extends outwardly from the rear wall. The housing has an open front, and a face plate fits over the open front. The face plate has the appropriate "WALK" and "DONT WALK" symbols positioned over the respective compartments. An egg crate visor is mounted over the face plate to shield the pedestrian traffic signal from sunlight. Due to the configuration of the rear reflective wall of each compartment, the tendency for symbols on the face plate to be visible when not illuminated is minimized.

Abstract: A siren detector for detecting siren sounds which precess at known yelp, wail and high-low warble rates within a selected frequency band. A transducer detects siren sounds and produces a corresponding electrical output signal. The output signal is filtered to reject signal frequencies outside the selected frequency band. The signal amplitude is monitored and varied as required to produce a constant amplitude output signal. The constant amplitude output signal is low pass filtered for detection of siren high-low sounds and is also low pass filtered for detection and output of precession signals which pass through a selected center frequency. Subsequent filters are provided for detecting signals which vary at the wail and yelp warble rates. Wail, high-low and yelp warble rate signals output by the various filters respectively trigger wail and yelp clock generators which in turn drive don't walk and red light output flip-flops respectively.

Abstract: A street crossing signal device for blind pedestrians. The device indicates the directions of pedestrian crosswalks at an intersection, so that the blind person can orient himself in a desired direction for crossing the street at one of the crosswalks, and provides a signal to that person when that crosswalk is safe for pedestrian crossing. The device comprises a pair of rigid hand rails secured to a post at the corner of the intersection, each hand rail having at least a portion thereof oriented in the direction of a corresponding crosswalk. The device further comprises a vibrator means which is secured within each hand rail. The vibrator means when actuated causes its associated hand rail to vibrate. Also provided is means to mechanically isolate each hand rail from the post so that vibrations from the hand rails are not transmitted to the post.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for prompting pedestrians to look and listen for turning vehicles includes an animated pictorial message formed in the image of a pair of scanning eyes (46,48) and generated by a pedestrian signal control (54) connected to a pedestrian signal display (32). The image (46,48) can be activated by a traffic control (52) or a motion detector (64) connected to the pedestrian signal control (54). A voice circuit (56) and speakers (58) connected to the pedestrian signal control (54) generate an audible message at the same time the image (46,48) is being displayed.