Bicycle Or Motorcycle Patents (Class 362/473)
  • Patent number: 6478458
    Abstract: A motorcycle license plate frame having an illuminated message bar is provided. The message bar has transparent optical apertures in the shape of symbols and/or alphanumeric characters that form a message. The message is illuminated by a light source located behind the message bar and connected to the motorcycle's electrical system. The color of all or portions of the message can be altered with tinted filters placed between the light source and the optical apertures. The message bar is made from a structural material and can be easily removed allowing replacement of the message without the expense and trouble of replacing the entire unit.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 12, 2002
    Inventor: Joel E. Hickman
  • Publication number: 20020163817
    Abstract: A bicycle lighting system has a lighting mechanism attached to a wheel of the bicycle. As the wheel revolves, an actuator activates the light at a predetermined point. The actuation may be physical or electromagnetic in nature. The actuation triggers the lighting of light contained in the lighting mechanism. The light beams may emanate parallel to the path defined by the spokes, or perpendicular to the emanating spokes. To an observer from the front, the light travels downward over the effective wheel height, transforming the light into an elongated light source equal to the wheel height. The rate at which the light source travels downward gives rotational information. The lighting may be for a predetermined time. Or, either of the lights may be strobed. A timing circuitry sensitive to rotational information allows the lights to be switched on and off at predetermined times and/or points in the revolution of the wheel. Delays may be introduced, and strobing effects may be also introduced.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2001
    Publication date: November 7, 2002
    Inventor: Clifton R. Bukowsky
  • Publication number: 20020159250
    Abstract: A safety hat having an alert function comprising a hat body, a battery, and a plurality of soft or hard light emitting strips, and a control switch. The hat body is like a shade. The soft light emitting strips are adhered on the surface and two lateral sides of the hat body. The battery is formed on the soft light emitting strips. One end of the control switch is connected to an electrode of the battery, and another end thereof is connected to the power supply end of the light emitting strip. By the action of the control switch, the soft light emitting strip lights up or extinguished. Thereby, a safety hat having an alert function is formed, which can be assembled by the user.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 25, 2001
    Publication date: October 31, 2002
    Inventors: Yin Jyh Kuo, Hsin-Hao Yang
  • Patent number: 6471377
    Abstract: An illuminated exhaust tail pipe assembly that can readily be attached to an existing vehicle exhaust system and including 1) a connector end section secured to the existing exhaust system; 2) an internal pipe assembly secured at one end to the connector end section; 3) an external pipe assembly connected at an inner end to the connector end section and mounted about an enclosing a major portion of the internal pipe assembly; and 4) an illuminated light assembly having at least one light bulb member mounted therein to provide a lighted area between an outer surface of the internal pipe assembly and an inner surface of the external pipe assembly. The external pipe assembly, at an inner end thereof, is provided with a plurality of air coolant holes and a light receiving opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Inventor: Christopher G. Stegall
  • Patent number: 6464379
    Abstract: A strobe lighting assembly for a motorcycle for improving the visibility of motorcycles for other motorists. The strobe lighting assembly for a motorcycle includes a support assembly being adapted to be mounted to a motorcycle; and also includes a light-emitting assembly being mounted to the support assembly and including a light-emitting member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Inventor: Michael J. Mc Kenna
  • Publication number: 20020145864
    Abstract: A lighted signaling system connected to the electrical indicating system of a vehicle or devices on the vehicle which cause the vehicle to change direction or speed. The signaling system allows the user of the vehicle to clearly signal directional and vehicular intentions, including right turns, left turns, running and braking.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 1, 2002
    Publication date: October 10, 2002
    Inventor: Raliegh A. Spearing
  • Patent number: 6461017
    Abstract: A flexible liquid tight marker light that comprises a light source encapsulated by injection molding a light transmitting elastomeric polymer to form a protective casing which further includes an imbedded wiring harness electrically connected to said light source and imbedded structural members that protect the light source from excessive flexing and impacts. The wiring harness and structural members provide heat sink means for the light source. The casing is comprised of variable durometer tinted polyurethane elastomers with light diffusing pigments added. Diverging optics are molded into the casing outer surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Inventor: Tom V. Selkee
  • Publication number: 20020136021
    Abstract: An automatic wheel-driven generating means mainly includes a base fixedly mounted on a wheel around an axle thereof and provided with a centered hollow column and one or more radially extended hollow pipes for each receiving a light-emitting element therein; a winding reel enclosed between left and right magnetic poles and fixedly mounted on the hollow column; and a magnet holder having a cap screwed into a center thereof and being fixedly mounted on the axle. The magnet holder carries magnets and is associated with the winding reel and the magnetic poles without contact with them. When the wheel rotates, the winding reel and the magnetic poles on the base rotate along with the wheel relative to the magnet holder that is unmovably fixed on the axle, so that an induced current is produced to drive the light-emitting elements to emit light beams.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2002
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventor: Pao-Chuang Hung
  • Publication number: 20020136020
    Abstract: An automatic wheel-driven generating means mainly includes a base fixedly mounted on a wheel around an axle thereof and provided with a centered hollow column and one or more radially extended hollow pipes for each receiving a light-emitting element therein; a winding reel enclosed between left and right magnetic poles and fixedly mounted on the hollow column; and a magnet holder having a cap screwed into a center thereof and being fixedly mounted on the axle. The magnet holder carries magnets and is associated with the winding reel and the magnetic poles without contact with them. When the wheel rotates, the winding reel and the magnetic poles on the base rotate along with the wheel relative to the magnet holder that is unmovably fixed on the axle, so that an induced current is produced to drive the light-emitting elements to emit light beams.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2001
    Publication date: September 26, 2002
    Inventor: Pao-Chuang Hung
  • Patent number: 6454445
    Abstract: A self-illuminating pedal assembly comprises a pedal axle, a pedal rotatably mounted around the pedal axle, a magnet securely mounted to the pedal axle, and a permanent-magnet coil securely mounted to the pedal to rotate therewith. At least one light-emitting diode is mounted to the pedal. The permanent-magnet coil is electrically connected to the light-emitting diode and surrounds the magnet. When pedaling, the permanent-magnet coil is rotated relative to the magnet to thereby generate an alternating magnetic field to cause illumination of the light-emitting diode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 24, 2002
    Assignee: Cobra King Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shun-Ten Liaw, Wu-Chung Jung
  • Publication number: 20020118534
    Abstract: A light system that attaches to a helmet. The light is designed to be removable. The system has a forward head light that enables a rider to illuminate in whatever direction the rider's head is looking. It has a translucent shell. In one embodiment, the shell is colored red. Light from the headlamp is allowed to leak through the rear of the shell, which gives the appearance of a taillight. In a second embodiment, the device has a forward headlamp and a second bulb that illuminates the rear shell. In a modification of this embodiment, the rear lamp has two filaments. One filament remains on all the time and acts as a taillight. The other filament is activated by the brake handle of the vehicle. In this way, it acts as a brake light, further warning other riders that the vehicle is slowing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Publication date: August 29, 2002
    Inventors: Ernst W. Fischer, Stephen Karcz
  • Patent number: 6439733
    Abstract: A light system that attaches to a helmet. The light is designed to be removable. The system has a forward head light that enables a rider to illuminate in whatever direction the rider's head is looking. It has a translucent shell. In one embodiment, the shell is colored red. Light from the headlamp is allowed to leak through the rear of the shell, which gives the appearance of a taillight. In a second embodiment, the device has a forward headlamp and a second bulb that illuminates the rear shell. In a modification of this embodiment, the rear lamp has two filaments. One filament remains on all the time and acts as a taillight. The other filament is activated by the brake handle of the vehicle. In this way, it acts as a brake light, further warning other riders that the vehicle is slowing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 27, 2002
    Inventors: Ernst W Fischer, Stephen Karcz
  • Publication number: 20020105811
    Abstract: A motorcycle license plate frame system including a frame portion with a substantially horizontal slot formed therein, a light source operationally connected within the slot, and at least one message bar filling the slot. The slot extends at least partially into the frame and includes a light source. The message bar has transparent optical apertures formed therethrough in the shape of symbols and/or alphanumeric characters so as to display a message. When the light source is lit, the message is illuminated. The message bars may be readily interchanged, such that new messages may be periodically displayed in the license plate frame system, as desired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 7, 2001
    Publication date: August 8, 2002
    Inventor: Joel E. Hickman
  • Patent number: 6428191
    Abstract: A storage box illuminator for a motorcycle in which a storage box having a top opening is arranged under the seat so that the bottom plate of the seat can cover the opening in an openable and closable manner is so configured that an illuminating lamp is arranged inside a depressed portion which is formed on the underside of the seat bottom plate of the seat and indented upward approximately as deep as the height of the illuminating device so that the illuminating lamp can illuminate the inside of the storage box when the seat is set open.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: August 6, 2002
    Assignee: Suzuki Motor Corporation
    Inventor: Kousei Ohura
  • Patent number: 6424255
    Abstract: An adjustable delay turn signal reminder device adapted for mounting on a motorcycle and other vehicles. The reminder device is designed with safety in mind and give a vehicle operator a visual and/or audio signal, after a predetermined time, that a left turn signal or right turn signal on the vehicle needs to be turned “off”. The reminder device includes an electrical circuit housing with housing carrier and straps for securing the housing on the instrument panel of the motorcycle. The electrical circuit housing includes electrical leads for connecting the housing to the vehicle's left and right turn signals, a lead for connecting to the vehicle's battery for providing a power source to the housing, leads connected to an audio/visual unit mounted on the instrument panel and a lead connected to the motorcycle's brake signal light. Also, the circuit housing includes an audio/visual control knob and a time delay control knob.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Inventor: Sean Shanahan
  • Publication number: 20020093825
    Abstract: A horizontal disk shaped bicycle light has a plurality of illuminating elements arrayed around its circumference, selectively illuminated at slow, medium and fast (or continuously “on”) rates and selectively illuminated in an all around or a side and rear only pattern.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 17, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventor: Randall B. Bailey
  • Publication number: 20020089858
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for a motion activated wheel light for a vehicle wheel having an air valve stem. A housing connects the light to the wheel's air valve stem. A power source is positioned within the housing for energizing a light source. A switch is connected to the power source and to the light source so as to energize the light source responsive to rotational motion of the wheel. The housing comprises a material which allows light from the light source to shine through so that it may be seen by a person observing the moving vehicle. The wheel light may comprise a shape for forming a visually perceptible light image when the light source is energized by the motion of the vehicle wheel.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 9, 2001
    Publication date: July 11, 2002
    Inventors: Daniel J. Deutsch, Jason M. Barber, Russell R. Rothan
  • Patent number: 6418041
    Abstract: A bicycle power supply circuit is provided whereby an AC voltage from an AC generator mounted on a bicycle is converted to a DC voltage, and the converted DC voltage is provided to an electrical component on the bicycle. The bicycle power supply circuit includes a first input terminal for connecting to a first AC generator output terminal of the AC generator, a second input terminal for connecting to a second AC generator output terminal of the AC generator, a first output terminal for connecting to the electrical component, and a second output terminal for connecting to the electrical component. A full-wave voltage rectifier circuit converts AC voltage presented at the first and second input terminals into a DC voltage, and a storage device is coupled to the voltage rectifier, wherein the storage device has a positive voltage terminal and a negative voltage terminal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: Shimano, Inc.
    Inventor: Satoshi Kitamura
  • Patent number: 6409366
    Abstract: A bulb container for a vehicle having a stay for securing the bulb container to the vehicle body. The stay has a peripheral groove which is engaged with a mounting hole in the vehicle body. A fixing member 24 can be included for reinforcing the portion of the stay which is inserted into the vehicle body.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 24, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Tetsuya Kondo, Takao Yamamoto
  • Patent number: 6407663
    Abstract: A multi-function display meter system for a motorized vehicle such as a motorcycle. The display system has a microprocessor-based controller that stores a value for each of a plurality of predetermined indication modes. A mode switch may be used to select one of the indication modes for display on a display unit, and a set switch may be used to set the value of at least one of the indication modes when that mode is selectively displayed. On a vehicle with handlebars, the mode and set switch are conveniently located on opposite handlebars. One of the indication modes may be a hi-beam icon brightness level whose level may be set when it is the selected mode. The system may also include a sensor that senses information related to the vehicle, such as the electrical system voltage level and whether the engine is running.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 26, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Assignee: Polaris Industries Inc.
    Inventor: Jeffery W. Huggett
  • Patent number: 6406168
    Abstract: A helmet lighting system for a motorcycle helmet includes a transmitter mounted on a motorcycle for broadcasting a radio-frequency signal to a receiver mounted on the motorcycle helmet. The transmitter includes a microprocessor that is connected to the brake light circuit, the running light circuit, the turn signal circuits and hazard circuit of the motorcycle. When one of the motorcycle lighting circuits is energized, the transmitter microprocessor generates and broadcasts a radio-frequency signal containing a function-specific code. The receiver receives the code and signals a pulse generator to create a function-specific electrical pulse package in a circuit containing a plurality of light emitting diodes to thereby simulate a running light, brake light, turn indicator or hazard light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 18, 2002
    Inventor: William Scott Whiting
  • Publication number: 20020067613
    Abstract: A light bulb housing, method of making same and method of replacing a light bulb within the light bulb housing wherein the housing has an internal chamber which is almost completely closed except for a single access opening. A light bulb is mounted within the internal chamber. A biasing device, such as a coil spring, is mounted within the internal chamber and located between the light bulb and the access opening. A lens is then mounted within the internal chamber against the coil spring and while compressing of the biasing device a O-ring seal is installed within a groove formed in the sidewall of the access opening. Upon manual release of the lens, the coil spring forces the lens into watertight, airtight, dustproof engagement with the O-ring seal.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 5, 2000
    Publication date: June 6, 2002
    Inventor: James E. Grove
  • Patent number: 6398393
    Abstract: An illuminated, folding, foot peg having electronic circuitry for controlling the illumination of the foot peg and an electrical connection arrangement adapted to prevent fraying of the electrical connection during repeated folding of the foot peg. The foot peg having a top for placement of a foot, a bottom and front and rear sides; a foot peg mount for pivotally mounting the foot pet to the vehicle so that the foot peg is foldable from an operational position to a folded position; an illumination device located on at least one of the front and rear sides of the foot peg; vibration damping material supporting the illumination device at the foot peg; and electrical wiring for connecting the illumination device to an electrical system of the vehicle, the electrical wiring having an insulating coating. Sheathing surrounds the electrical wiring at least at the foot peg mount, for preventing fraying of the coating on the wiring to protect against short circuiting of the wiring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2002
    Inventor: Joey Lynn Perse
  • Patent number: 6390656
    Abstract: A headlight includes a low-beam lamp arranged on a longitudinally extending center line of a vehicle body and left and right high-beam lamps arranged on the opposite sides of the low-beam lamp as viewed in plan. This arrangement permits the total reflection area of the reflecting portions of the left and right high-beam lamps can be increased. The lens of the low-beam lamp and the left and right high-beam lamps is integrally formed and largely curved toward the front side of the vehicle body, thereby suppressing an increase in the air resistance by the headlight. Accordingly, the brightness of the headlight can be increased without changing the rated powers of the bulbs of the low-beam lamp and the high-beam lamps. Further, by symmetrically arranging the left and right high-beam lamps with respect to the low-beam lamp, the illumination condition on the road surface by the high beam in the case of cornering to the left can be made similar to that in the case of cornering to the right.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 21, 2002
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toshihiko Suda, Shigeru Kodaira, Koichi Hikichi
  • Publication number: 20020057574
    Abstract: A lighting device for attaching to a spoked wheel emits light in the direction of the rim of the wheel, and in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation of the wheel; and which has a housing in an aerofoil shape.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 1, 2001
    Publication date: May 16, 2002
    Inventors: David R. Dalton, John R. Brown, Adam Shipway
  • Patent number: 6359551
    Abstract: An indication device of the present invention includes a case body provided to a movable portion during in use by a both-sided adhesive tape or a fitting; luminous body provided with the case body and emits a light or a blinking light by using electric current generated in a power source; a first ON/OFF switch with an optical sensor interposed between the power source and luminous body, and a second ON/OFF switch turning on automatically during use. Therefore, the indication device can allow the others to become aware of person's whereabouts by emitting light or blinking light when in use. The device can be turned off automatically to prevent dissipation of power.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 3, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 19, 2002
    Inventor: Yoshimitsu Suda
  • Patent number: 6354723
    Abstract: A footrest for a motorcycle, such footrest having a hollow body containing a light source. A lens extends substantially over the entire surface of an opening of the housing for providing high visibility to oncoming traffic. A lens cover protects the lens from impact.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Inventor: Wendell Lee Spence
  • Publication number: 20020003700
    Abstract: A flexible liquid tight marker light that comprises a light source encapsulated by injection molding a light transmitting elastomeric polymer to form a protective casing which further includes an imbedded wiring harness electrically connected to said light source and imbedded structural members that protect the light source from excessive flexing and impacts. The wiring harness and structural members provide heat sink means for the light source. The casing is comprised of variable durometer tinted polyurethane elastomers with light diffusing pigments added. Diverging optics are molded into the casing outer surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 1999
    Publication date: January 10, 2002
    Inventor: TOM V. SELKEE
  • Patent number: 6336736
    Abstract: An illuminated bicycle frame apparatus for increasing the visibility of a bicycle frame. The illuminated bicycle frame apparatus includes a bike frame. The bike frame is generally hollow and generally translucent. An illumination system includes a plurality of lights mounted in the frame. A power source powers the plurality of lights. The power source is operationally coupled to each of the plurality of lights. The power source is a plurality of solar panels mounted on the bike frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 6, 2000
    Date of Patent: January 8, 2002
    Inventor: Jessica Edmond
  • Publication number: 20010055210
    Abstract: A storage box illuminator for a motorcycle in which a storage box having a top opening is arranged under the seat so that the bottom plate of the seat can cover the opening in an openable and closable manner is so configured that an illuminating lamp is arranged inside a depressed portion which is formed on the underside of the seat bottom plate of the seat and indented upward approximately as deep as the height of the illuminating device so that the illuminating lamp can illuminate the inside of the storage box when the seat is set open.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 30, 2001
    Publication date: December 27, 2001
    Applicant: SUZUKI MOTOR CORPORATION
    Inventor: Kousei Ohura
  • Patent number: 6322238
    Abstract: An auxiliary light system including a rectangular tubular frame having a horizontal elongated top frame member, an opposed and spaced apart horizontal elongated bottom frame member, a first vertical end frame member joining the first ends of the top and bottom frame members and a second vertical frame member joining the opposite ends of the top and bottom frame members and at least one support strut between the top and bottom frame members. A first light is mounted on the first vertical frame member and a second light is mounted on the second vertical frame member and electrically connected to a conventional plug to engage a socket electrically connected to the vehicle's electrical system, lights and directional signals. The wiring to the respective lights can be exposed or concealed within the tubular frame. The auxiliary system preferably can be used to provide taillights but also can provide headlights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 27, 2001
    Inventor: Ralph S. Barr
  • Patent number: 6286982
    Abstract: A lighting apparatus having a light emitting unit separable from a battery case can be used conveniently for a bicycle. The light emitting unit incorporates a light bulb capable of being lighted on with an electric current supplied from the battery case through a power supply cable. Since the light emitting unit is separated from the battery case, it can be made compact and easily mounted on the handlebar of the bicycle independent of the battery case. Consequently, the light emitting unit is not a hindrance to a bicycle rider in handling the bicycle, and it is hard to experience a shock and be damaged in riding the bicycle. By demounting the light emitting unit and battery case from the bicycle and uniting them directly to each other, the lighting apparatus can be used as a portable flashlight.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Inventor: Isao Tashiro
  • Patent number: 6264351
    Abstract: The rotatable and mountable light assembly of the present invention includes a base member, the base member pivotally connected to a clamping member, the clamping member comprising a means to removably secure the base member to a bar; a lamp holding member releasably secured to the base member, the lamp holding member comprising a lamp receiving space, the lamp receiving space being of sufficient space to receive at least one individual lamp. The lamp holding member is capable of altering its orientation with regard to the base member such that the orientation of the lamp holding member vis-à-vis the clamping member may be altered; the single lamp residing in a portion of the receiving space, the lamp comprising a lens and a means to illuminate; and a means to provide power to the lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 12, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 24, 2001
    Assignee: Schwinn Cycling & Fitness Inc.
    Inventors: Harry B. Taylor, Paul Klinger
  • Patent number: 6241371
    Abstract: An activating device for light-emitting wheel comprises a wheel, a sound and light generating circuit, a plurality of light emitting elements and a plurality of conductive wires. The wheel has a hub at the center of the wheel, a plurality of spokes radially arranged around the hub and a rim arranged around the outer contour of the plurality of spokes. An interspace chamber is formed between two adjacent spokes. The sound and light generating circuit is arranged within one of the interspace chambers. The sound and light generating circuit has a housing case, two conductive plates, an activating element and a top cover on the housing case. The two conductive plates are of the same structure and have slantingly bent bottom portions. The two conductive plates are such mounted on the housing case that a predetermined separation is kept between the two slantingly bent bottom portions thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 5, 2001
    Inventor: Jen Hao Dai
  • Patent number: 6227688
    Abstract: The rotatable and mountable light assembly of the present invention includes a base member, the base member pivotally connected to a clamping member, the clamping member comprising a means to removably secure the base member to a bar; a lamp holding member releasably secured to the base member, the lamp holding member comprising a lamp receiving space, the lamp receiving space being of sufficient space to receive at least one individual lamp. The lamp holding member is capable of altering its orientation with regard to the base member such that the orientation of the lamp holding member vis-à-vis the clamping member may be altered; the single lamp residing in a portion of the receiving space, the lamp comprising a lens and a means to illuminate; and a means to provide power to the lamp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 23, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 8, 2001
    Assignee: Schwinn Cycling & Fitness Inc.
    Inventors: Harry B. Taylor, Paul Klinger
  • Patent number: 6203182
    Abstract: A water drain includes an outer opening formed on a flange of a lamp body, a recess formed on a flange of a lens, a path formed between the flanges, and a slope rising toward the lens and the lamp body. Water splashed by a front wheel of a motorcycle is downwardly reflected by the slope on the lens, thereby reducing the amount of water entering via the outer opening. Furthermore, the outer opening is tapered toward its inner side which makes it difficult for water to pass therethrough. Still further, front and rear indicators can be realized using common components.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Toru Hasegawa, Shinichi Maeda
  • Patent number: 6196707
    Abstract: An improved pedal assembly for bicycles. The pedal assembly includes a pedal casing. The pedal casing has a top surface, a bottom surface and at least one side edge surface. A plurality of LEDs are disposed within the pedal casing wherein light from said LEDs is viewable through the side edge surfaces of the casing. At least one battery receptacle is also disposed within the pedal casing. A first activator is disposed in the pedal casing below the top surface, wherein the first activator is triggered when a predetermined force is applied to the top surface. Similarly, a second activator is disposed in the pedal casing below the bottom surface, wherein the second switch is triggered when a predetermined force is applied to the bottom surface. The first activator and the second activator are electrically interconnected to both the battery receptacle and the LEDs so that the LEDs are electrically connected to the battery receptacle when either the first activator or the second activator are triggered.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 10, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 6, 2001
    Inventor: William Deckard
  • Patent number: 6186635
    Abstract: A device for increasing the visibility of bicyclists and others “at risk” at night and during other low visibility conditions, and the chemical method of producing the same, wherein the device is a luminescent, planar portion of material manufactured using a mixture of PVC, phosphorescent, brightener, and fluorescent color that results in bonding of the phosphorescent and fluorescent ingredients. The luminescent portion provides continuous, visible light emission in the dark and at other times of low visibility, given intermittent exposure to an external light source. A fastener for attaching the luminescent material to the spokes of a bicycle wheel is also provided. An anchor pin projecting through the luminescent portion has a slotted end for receiving the spoke of a bicycle wheel. A lock washer fits over the tapered end of the anchor pin and retains the spoke between the closed end of the slot and a flange.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 4, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Inventors: Gary Peterson, Pratap Y. Korgaokar
  • Patent number: 6170968
    Abstract: An illuminator has all of it's electrical components mounted within a housing that is secured to the rotatable object. Those components include a light source, an electrical power source, a first switch activated by intermittent motion of the housing and a second switch activated by centrifugal forces caused by rotation of the rotatable object. The illuminator components also include a timer which has a timing cycle and which is operably connected relative to the first switch and the second switch such that activation of either the first switch or the second switch initiates that timing cycle of the timer and enables the flow of electricity from the power source to the light source during the timing cycle. The light source can include an electro luminescent strip or light emitting diodes. As noted the illuminator can be mounted on a rotatable object, or can be used by wearing on a person, pet or other device to provide a warning or locator light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 9, 2001
    Assignee: Outdoor Creations, Inc.
    Inventor: Ty J. Caswell
  • Patent number: 6158881
    Abstract: The seat post includes a hollow support tube 1 which is partly inserted into a cycle frame 24 and carries a bracket 2 for supporting a seat. A series of light-emitting diodes 12 mounted on a printed circuit board 8 emit light through windows 13 in the support member. The circuit board also carries a flush-mounted or recessed on/off switch 9 which is accessible to control the supply of power to the diodes 12. Power may be supplied by one or more cells 16 inserted in the support member via a removable bottom end cap 21. The support member can also contain rechargeable cells which can be recharged via a power connector 32 at the bottom end of the support member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2000
    Inventor: Steven Andrew Carne
  • Patent number: 6152585
    Abstract: An illumination device is provided and associated with the gas tank of a motorcycle to help illuminate the area in front and to the sides of the motorcycle. The device includes a light panel and a light housing. The light housing is provided with a reflective surface area which reflects light received from a light bulb in the direction in front of the motorcycle and to the side of the motorcycle corresponding to the side of the motorcycle to which the tank is attached.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Inventor: James Barry
  • Patent number: 6135625
    Abstract: To shorten a high voltage line connecting a lighting circuit and an electric discharge lamp, and to achieve weight reduction of a stay, in a head lamp of a motorcycle. A stay 26L is attached to a flange 24L, a head lamp 27 is attached to a front end of the stay 26L, and a lighting circuit box 30 is arranged substantially between the head lamp 27 and the flange 24L. The lighting circuit box is arranged on the front side of the head pipe of the motorcycle. Therefore, the lighting circuit box can be located near the head lamp. As a result, the lighting circuit is arranged at a position as near as possible to both the body of the motorcycle and the lamp body, the high voltage line is shortened, and countermeasures against insulation or high frequency hazards can be taken easily and inexpensively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 5, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Shigeru Kodaira, Kenichi Takeda, Mutsumi Katayama
  • Patent number: 6120167
    Abstract: The present invention is a motorcycle tail light comprising a housing, a lens and a light source assembly. The light source assembly includes a resilient base and a light source detachably mounted to the base. The resilient base dampens vibrations which are transferred to the light source through the housing of the tail light. The resilient base of the present invention may also have an asymmetrical shape to ensure that the light source is properly aligned within the tail light. In addition, the base may also include one or more resilient ribs adapted to compress when the base is mounted within the housing of the tail light. The rib configuration permits easy insertion of the base into the housing while making withdrawal of the base from the housing more difficult. The light source assembly also includes an elastomer member positioned between the base and the light source to further dampen the vibrations that reach the light source.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Harley-Davidson Motor Company
    Inventor: John E. Nace
  • Patent number: 6109773
    Abstract: A motorcycle forward lamp comprising a housing having an optically transmissive lens and an opening, an elastomer member mounted to the housing, and a light source assembly mounted (e.g., detachably) to the elastomer member and positioned within the opening. The light source assembly is isolated from the housing by the elastomer member. A shield is detachably mounted and positioned within the housing between the light source and the lens. A fastener and a washer are secured to the housing and positioned to maintain the light source assembly in the opening, and a dust cap is detachably mounted over the opening. The dust cap includes a notch in which the washer is positioned to thereby maintain the dust cap in position over the opening.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 24, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Harley-Davidson Motor Company
    Inventor: John E. Nace
  • Patent number: 6109770
    Abstract: A light signaling device (30) including a removable lighting device (32,34) and a security device (36, 44, 50) integral with the lighting device (32, 34) and lockable to a vehicle, such as a two-wheeled vehicle. The security device also serves to immobilize the vehicle. The lighting device may include a front signaling light source and a rear signaling light source housed in respective housings (32, 34). The security device includes a mechanical link (36) such as a wiring or steel strip between the housings, and a connecting device (42-70) for joining and locking the housings together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Kim Charles
    Inventors: Henri Choimet, Kim Charles
  • Patent number: 6099150
    Abstract: A brake light system for bicycles includes a light means fixedly mounted on a bicycle and a pair of brake assemblies each having a metallic bracket, a insulating rubber member mounted on the first metallic bracket, and a conductive rubber member mounted on the insulating rubber member, the metallic bracket being provided with a brake post extending outwardly to engage with one of the arms of a cantilever, the conductive rubber member being electrically connected with the light device via a electrical wire, whereby when the cantilever brake is activated, a braking signal will be transmitted to a controlling circuit through the conductive rubber member thereby turning on the light device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 12, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventor: Jun Lun Hsiao
  • Patent number: 6099151
    Abstract: A lighting system at a rear part (3) of a motorcycle having at least one of a rear clearance light, a main brake light and a numberplate light contained in a vertical central plane of a rear wheel, and rear direction lights situated symmetrically to the central vertical plane. Additional brake lights (8.1 and 8.2) are electrically connected with the main brake light (5) and arranged generally symmetrically to the central vertical plane of the rear wheel (6) at the rear part (3) of the motorcycle (1).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 12, 1998
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Inventor: Martin Tlustos
  • Patent number: 6089738
    Abstract: A lamp unit includes a cover having an opening therein for an external power supply terminal for supplying electric power to the outside. An external power supply terminal body is inserted from a front face of the opening and fixedly fastened to the cover by a nut which is threadably engaged with a screw thread portion of the external power supply terminal body on a rear face of the opening. A removable cap is fitted with an end of the external power supply terminal. The lamp unit prevents water, mud or the like from directly attacking the external power supply terminal. Further, the appearance around the lamp unit is pleasing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 18, 2000
    Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Katsumi Ebara
  • Patent number: 6070997
    Abstract: A symmetrical safety light for wheeled vehicles is turned on by relative rotation of a removable plug in a housing that pushes a battery in the housing against the resistance of a spring. The light is turned off by relative rotation of the components in the opposite direction, which allows the spring to push the battery out of contact with a conductor from the light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: MJM, Inc.
    Inventors: Mike A. Duke, Gerald D. Reed
  • Patent number: 6059377
    Abstract: This invention is intended to provide an improved structure of wheel rim frame of bicycle, wherein a stripe sticker printed with fluorescent patterns is attached onto a bottom portion of the wheel rim frame, and a protective membrane is further attached onto the sticker, so that, by favor of the printed patterns and the protective membrane, a diversified wonderful feeling is offered by the wheel rim frame to meanwhile remind people of being alert and to protect the improved structure from being scraped to prolong usable life; and besides, this invention can be employed to cooperate with wheel rim frame of various shapes or efficacies, and owing to simplified process, a lower manufacturing cost is achievable.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 7, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Inventor: Chun-Yi Wu