Visual Identification Light Patents (Class 362/540)
  • Patent number: 6637917
    Abstract: A side flashing lamp (4, 4′) for fitting in the cover cap (2) of an external rear view mirror (1) for motor vehicles, comprising a lamp housing having an elongate light exit opening (3) which in the installed condition extends from the outward side of the cover cap (2), which is remote from the vehicle, substantially horizontally towards the vehicle, at least one group of light sources (12) which are arranged distributed substantially uniformly along a line which in the installed condition extends substantially horizontally over the width of the light exit opening (3), and at least one optically active device (10) which focuses the light of the at least one group of light sources (12) in a main radiation direction which in the installed condition faces substantially in the direction of travel.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 28, 2003
    Assignee: Fer Fahrzeugelektrik GmbH
    Inventors: Martina Schwanz, Rolf Kuenstler, Daniel Matthie, Markus Braeutigam
  • Publication number: 20030193814
    Abstract: A signaling assembly is described and which includes a reflective substrate having opposite first and second surfaces, and wherein each of the surfaces simultaneously reflects visibly discernable electromagnetic radiation and passes electromagnetic radiation; and an emitter for emitting visibly discernable electromagnetic radiation is provided, and wherein the emitted visibly discernable electromagnetic radiation may be simultaneously viewed from locations forward of the opposite first and second surfaces.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 15, 2002
    Publication date: October 16, 2003
    Inventors: Allen A. Bukosky, Daniel J. Mathieu
  • Publication number: 20030189836
    Abstract: A boat trailer has a plurality of light sources housed within a sealed enclosure. The sources are electrically connected to a towing vehicle's lighting system and optically coupled through light condensing means to fiber-optic connecting fittings. Electrical circuitry for light source emitting elements is disposed within the enclosure and a multi-conductor electrical bulk-head connector is on the enclosure. A plurality of fiber-optic cables have environmentally securing end connectors. Fiber-optic cable tap devices function to extract a specific percentage of the light transmitted through a fiber-optic cable to a side outlet for distribution among a plurality of emitting apertures performing similar lighting functions. Light emitting apertures with light diffusion and control from the entering beam to the full area of the light emitting aperture is accomplished through lenses and/or critical angle reflectors.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 5, 2002
    Publication date: October 9, 2003
    Inventors: Teddy Burch Sparling, Jordan Lee Gay
  • Publication number: 20030174505
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method of locating the position of a vehicle (5) for the driver thereof, characterised in that use is made of the surface area around the vehicle by projecting a light beam (10) from the vehicle or vehicle part to be located substantially downwards on to said surface, such that at uninhibited projection thereof, a lighted spot (6) is created on said surface, at least substantially outside the circumference of the relevant vehicle part as seen in plan view. The invention specifically supports safe overtaking manoeuvres of large vehicles like trucks. The invention further includes a device, a vehicle and an adapted road for performing said method, and based thereupon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 13, 2003
    Publication date: September 18, 2003
    Applicant: WAINLIGHT
    Inventor: Neil Arthur Wainwright
  • Patent number: 6619824
    Abstract: A warning strip for automobiles in the present invention mainly includes a body, a tape, a circuit board and a transparent cover. Only to remove a tear-off sheet from the tape, and then the warning strip can be attached to an appropriate place of an automobile with cords of the circuit board connected to power source of the automobile to make a plurality of light-emitting diodes (LED) of the circuit board emit light capable of being changed with one or more colors and passing through a transparent cover to perform warning function so that other drivers can immediately pay attention to the existence of the automobile and keep safe distance with the automobile so as to avoid car collisions that often happen in low light conditions, thus greatly increasing the safety of the automobile.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 16, 2003
    Inventor: Fu-Cheng Hou
  • Patent number: 6616215
    Abstract: The invention relates to a piece of rear quarter bodywork (14) made as a single piece and comprising at least a portion made of translucent or transparent material that forms a quarter window (15). The piece of bodywork has another portion (17) contiguous with the quarter window (15) and forming glazing for lights suitable for protecting a light source that is located on the vehicle in the vicinity of the quarter window.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 26, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Compagnie Plastic Omnium
    Inventors: Maelig Pommeret, Charlotte Thevenet, Dominique Delavalle
  • Patent number: 6616313
    Abstract: A lighting device for attachment to a motor vehicle inside a housing 4. One or more light emitting diodes 9 which emit substantially white light are employed as lighting emitters. On account of the small amount of waste heat of the light-emitting diodes 9 the lighting device can be particularly easily integrated into existing subassemblies of the motor vehicle, in particular into the outside mirrors, inside mirror, trim strips and door handles, and can serve to illuminate the region around the vehicle or the interior of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 6, 2001
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2003
    Assignee: Donnelly Hohe GmbH & Co. KG
    Inventors: Peter Fürst, Harald Buchalla
  • Patent number: 6607296
    Abstract: A lens 1, for use in a vehicular lamp, including a front section 4 directed generally to the front, a curved section 5 extending from the front section 4 and changing direction to face laterally and seal legs projecting generally to the back from the peripheral edges. The seal leg in the curved section has a portion that extends inwardly to form an undercut in the direction in which the lens is removed from a lens shaping mold. The curved section 5 is shaped from resin in at least two colors and the seal legs which at least form an undercut in the curved section are shaped from a resin having one of said at least two colors. Thus the lens can be shaped in a mold of a simplified structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 8, 2000
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2003
    Assignee: Koito Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Mituteru Yoshinaga, Makoto Sano
  • Publication number: 20030147253
    Abstract: A warning light device for attaching onto various portions of vehicles includes a housing having a base plate and a cover secured together and having a bent portion for attaching onto curved portions of the vehicle. One or more circuit boards are received in the housing, and a number of of light devices are attached to the circuit boards and facing forward and sidewise and rearward of the housing for generating lights to be seen from various directions of the vehicle. One or more panels are attached onto the circuit boards and have concentric circles for light diffusing purposes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 6, 2002
    Publication date: August 7, 2003
    Inventor: Jack Shy
  • Publication number: 20030137851
    Abstract: A color programmable auxiliary cornering light for a car, comprised of a body containing a control circuit; the control circuit being connected to an array of RGB LED inserted to and connected in parallel with a light holder of an auxiliary cornering light of the car; a setup knob exposed from the body for the auxiliary cornering light to display various colors through change of LED combination pre-programmed by the control circuit when a cornering light of the car is turned on.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 23, 2002
    Publication date: July 24, 2003
    Inventor: Chi-Hsiang Pan
  • Publication number: 20030107900
    Abstract: A device and method for precise visual indications of predetermined perimeter locations of a land vehicle is provided. The device has an electromagnetic generation mechanism for generating a high intensity, low diffusing, electromagnetic beam and a projection mechanism for securing the electromagnetic generation mechanism to the vehicle. The method of projecting the beam outward, downward, and perpendicular to the vehicle, parallel to a predetermined perimeter location provides the driver a precise visual indication of the perimeter location relative to other vehicles or obstacles. In one embodiment, the electromagnetic generation mechanism is a plurality of lasers in a phased-array projection mechanism that produce a line of beams, in the visible light spectrum, over a wide area.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 7, 2001
    Publication date: June 12, 2003
    Inventor: Thomas F. Ellison
  • Publication number: 20030095415
    Abstract: A lighting apparatus for a vehicle includes a light source attached inside the vehicle, such as to an “A” pillar adjacent a front of a side window of the vehicle, where the light source is oriented to direct light toward a ground area adjacent the vehicle for security and convenience. Variations include also reflecting a portion of the light from the light source off an outside rearview mirror onto the ground area, and also directing a portion of the light toward an area inside the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 20, 2001
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventor: John W. Carter
  • Publication number: 20030095414
    Abstract: A peg, for attachment to a motorcycle, has an attachment lug for mounting it to the motorcycle; a hollow cylindrical body portion rotatably mounted on the attachment lug; a high intensity light source within the body; a window in the body portion with a reflective/refractive lens; an end cap adjustably secured by a pair of bolts, enclosing the body outer end; so that the window aperture may be selectively rotated about the polar axis of the body portion, and secured in a selected orientation. The stainless steel peg body has a ridged brass grip inset into its outer surface and glued in place, to provide a grip for the user's foot.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 21, 2002
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventor: Richard (aka Rick) Dale Tracey
  • Patent number: 6565244
    Abstract: An identification light bar as required by 49 C.F.R. Section 571.108 for vehicles over eighty inches in width is disclosed. The light bar comprises an elongate body having a center optic, left and right distal optics, and left and right light pipes which connect the respective distal optics to the center optic. Each optic is covered by a respective lens cap. A single LED is connected to the body in alignment with the center optic. The center optic receives light emitted by the LED and divides the light such that a first portion thereof is emitted from the light bar through the center lens cap, a second portion thereof is transmitted along the left light pipe and emitted through the left lens cap, and a third portion thereof is transmitted along the right light pipe and emitted through the right lens cap.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2002
    Date of Patent: May 20, 2003
    Assignee: Peterson Manufacturing Company
    Inventors: Timothy C. Murphy, Gary A. Hill
  • Patent number: 6558016
    Abstract: A motorcyclist garment with illuminated traffic signals for providing better and more visible rear lighting for motorcyclists. The motorcyclist garment with illuminated traffic signals includes a garment having a back side, a neck opening, and arm openings; and further includes a light-emitting assembly including light-emitting members being disposed in the back side of said garment, and also including wires and a power cord being connected to the light-emitting members, and further including a connector plug being attached to an end of the power cord and being adapted to plug into a power jack of a motorcycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2003
    Inventor: Edward C. Restauro
  • Patent number: 6550945
    Abstract: A luminous pedal for a bicycle has a body with an I-like frame formed therein. An axle hole is longitudinally defined through the frame. An end cover is assembled at the front end and has a second hole in alignment with the axle hole. An axle has a head extending out from the second hole. A plurality of permanent magnets is circumferentially provided thereon and arranged N-pole by S-pole alternately. A coil seat with a coil is secured in the chamber. The permanent magnets are received in the coil seat. Two luminous plates is respectively secured at the side parts of the body and each have a plurality of luminous elements and electrically connected with the coil by a wire so that when the pedal is operated by a user, current is generated to light the luminous elements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: Chun-Chen Chiu
  • Patent number: 6550946
    Abstract: A lamp unit provided with an LED light source is attached to the back surface of an inside handle vessel, and the position of the light source is fixed. Then, the inside handle vessel together with the lamp unit is installed in a door trim.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Akihiro Misawa, Hiroshi Ito, Hisatoshi Ota, Kazushi Noda, Akihiro Honma
  • Patent number: 6550950
    Abstract: A vehicle lamp for attachment and for electrical connection to a motor vehicle includes a housing enclosing an array of light emitting diodes. The housing has a light transmitting cover for sealing and protecting the diodes. The diodes emit light of at least two colors. The colors may be selected by a control that may be a remote control. One of the colors may be that associated with fog lights. An array of emitters is disposed to spell out a word such as alarm or help. The device may include an array of sockets adapted to receive plug-in diodes so that the consumer may spell out a particular word such as a name to personalize the light. The emitters may be strobed for emphasis. One or more emitters may be wired to emit light only when the running lights are on and the vehicle battery voltage is below a preset value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Inventor: Robert A. Fernandez
  • Publication number: 20030067781
    Abstract: To reduce the exposed length of a winker cord, making the winker cord have a better appearance and also to provide better protection of the winker cord. A front winker (winker device) has a winker holder mounted on a front fork member of a motorcycle with a winker supported on an outer side of the winker holder by a winker support base, and a winker cord extending from the winker holder. The winker holder includes a pair of front and rear holder members, and is mounted on the front fork member in sandwiching relation thereto. The winker cord is inserted though a cord insertion hole defined in the holder members and is exposed out of the winker holder inwardly of the front fork member. A vehicular light-emitting device is capable of emitting light sideways for preventing emitted light from being applied to the driver and also for preventing rainwater from entering the light-emitting device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 10, 2002
    Publication date: April 10, 2003
    Inventors: Kyotaro Kajitori, Masamoto Ito, Seiji Yamaguchi
  • Patent number: 6543917
    Abstract: A position indicating device (10) that can be mounted to a truck (12), comprises an electric lamp (18) and an adjustable mounting arrangement (20) for mounting the lamp to a rear end (17) of the truck. The lamp (18) is connectable to the truck's battery and has a convergent lens for emitting a focussed beam of light when the lamp is illuminated. A position indicating device (10) is mounted to the rear end (17) of the truck near opposite corners of the truck defined between the rear end and sides thereof. The position of each lamp is adjusted so as to produce a beam (43) of light that is directed downwardly onto a ground surface (42) thereby to form a spot (44) of light on the ground. The spots of light, being spaced from the truck, can be observed by the driver of the truck via the truck's rear view mirrors(48), thereby enabling the driver to judge the proximity of the spots of light and hence the truck, to the boundary of a confined area in which the truck is to be manoeuvred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 8, 2003
    Inventor: Hans Berlinghof
  • Patent number: 6540370
    Abstract: An illuminated wreath system comprises a base formed of a generally rigid material in a circular configuration having an exterior periphery and an interior periphery and with a central aperture. An electrical conductor is spirally wound around the base with a plurality of bulbs spaced along the length thereof. An electrical assembly is coupled to the ends of the electrical conductor and secured to the base. A receiver is secured to the base functioning as a switch for switching the bulbs between on and off. A remote control actuator is adapted to transmit signals to turn the bulbs on and off. A pair of connectors each has an axially interior end secured to the base and an axially exterior end adapted to be removably coupled to a vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 1, 2003
    Inventor: John Picklo
  • Publication number: 20030058653
    Abstract: A surface illumination system is provided that includes a lighting system mounted upon a vehicle body, such as an aircraft body. The lighting system is adapted to illuminate the surface beneath and around the periphery of the aircraft. For example, the lighting system is preferably adapted to illuminate the surface beneath at least one of the tail and distal ends of the wings. A further embodiment of the lighting system is adapted to illuminate the surface in a non-static manner. By increasing the illumination about the periphery of the aircraft, the surface illumination system draws increased attention to the aircraft and provides ground vehicles, taxiing aircraft, and landing aircraft advanced warning of the presence and position of obstacle aircraft on the ground, thereby reducing the possibility of collisions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Applicant: The Boeing Company
    Inventors: Michael L. Konicke, James E. Veitengruber, C. Edward Wischmeyer
  • Publication number: 20030058654
    Abstract: A floodlight that is adapted to projecting a pattern of light from the housing of a vehicle exterior mirror on an area adjacent a portion of the vehicle in order to create a lighted security zone in that area. The pattern extends laterally onto the vehicle and downwardly and rearwardly of the mirror housing. In this manner, the lighted security zone extends from the vehicle door to the rear of the vehicle. An actuator for the floodlight includes a base unit in the vehicle and a remote transmitter wherein the base unit is responsive to a signal from the remote transmitter in order to actuate the floodlight. The actuator may further include a lockout device in order to prevent actuation of the floodlight during operation of the vehicle. A signal light is additionally included in the exterior mirror housing in order to project a second pattern of light from the mirror housing extending laterally away from the vehicle and rearwardly of the vehicle.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Publication date: March 27, 2003
    Applicant: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Todd W. Pastrick, Linda K. Molenkamp, Roger L. Koops
  • Patent number: 6536930
    Abstract: A panel assembly (10) for an automotive vehicle has a transparent panel (12) having opposing first (14) and second (16) surfaces. A portion of the first surface includes refractive structure (18) integral with the panel (12). At least one light source (22) is positioned at an edge of the panel for introducing light into the panel (12). The refractive structure (18) reflects light from the light source (22) out through a portion of the second surface (16). A film laminate (20) is positioned generally opposite the refractive structure (18). When the light source (22) is operatively connected to a vehicle braking system and the film laminate (20) is red, the panel assembly (10) will indicate a braking condition.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 2, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2003
    Inventor: Gerhard F. Hirmer
  • Publication number: 20030053316
    Abstract: A license light for a two-wheeled vehicle capable of uniformly illuminating a display plane of a license plate. A lamp main body is supported in a light housing portion of a light cover mounted to a license plate mounting portion of a rear fender. The lamp main body is configured such that a lamp fixed to a base via a socket is covered with a lens. A prism is provided on an upper surface portion of the lens through which light emitted from the lamp is directed for illuminating a display plane of the license plate. The prism is formed by arraying a plurality of prism elements, each of which is directed in a direction parallel to the center line of a vehicular body, in a direction perpendicular to the center line direction. The light emitted from the lamp is uniformly diffused by the prism, so that the license light is uniformly illuminated with the light with a uniform brightness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 14, 2002
    Publication date: March 20, 2003
    Inventors: Seiji Yamaguchi, Toru Miyagawa, Toshinori Nakano
  • Patent number: 6533444
    Abstract: A lighting directional sign includes a L-shaped illuminating unit including a casing, an illuminator protected by the casing, and an electric input connector provided on the casing and electrically connected with the illuminator, wherein the illuminating unit is disposed in a lamp chamber of a vehicle signal light and electrically connected with a power outlet of the vehicle signal light. The illuminating unit is aligned as an arrowhead shape in such a manner when the vehicle signal light is switched on, the illuminating unit is automatically switched on in order to signify the further motion of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventor: Wen I Auguste Lee
  • Patent number: 6533445
    Abstract: A unitary multiple light assembly for motor vehicle trailers uses different arrays of LEDs to illuminate a side marker light, a rear tail or brake light, and a license plate light. A license plate attaching bracket holds the license plate in a location in which individual LEDs in a light fixture can shine directly on predetermined locations on the license plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 11, 2002
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2003
    Inventor: Thomas W. Rogers
  • Patent number: 6517227
    Abstract: An exterior rear view mirror assembly is disclosed which incorporates a warning light actuatable in conjunction with the vehicle turn signals to alert adjacent motor vehicles of an anticipated turn. The warning light is integrated into a first decorative cover member and may be connected to the vehicle turn signal circuit by way of connectable electrical leads or by an integrally formed plug and outlet arrangement. A second decorative cover member may be substituted for the first decorative cover member when it is not desired to incorporate the warning light.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 11, 2003
    Assignee: Britax Vision Systems (North America) Inc.
    Inventors: Mark Stidham, Dale Gathergood, Charles Furlotte
  • Patent number: 6504477
    Abstract: A secondary alert light for a motor vehicle comprises a light holder, a light convergence ring and light emission devices; positioning posts on the light holder locking up the light convergence ring; the ring being light permeable having reflection units with each composed of angular crystals each having a cut at an inclination arranged at equal spacing and mating posts corresponding to the positioning posts on the light holder; at least two recesses being provided on the circumference of the light convergence ring each to house a pair of light emission devices; and the light convergence ring being locked to the light holder with the circumferences of the reflection unit to converge light emitted from the light emission devices to achieve alert effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Inventor: Yu-Chu Lin
  • Publication number: 20030002293
    Abstract: A wiring assembly that is electronically connected in line with the existing running board courtesy lamp system of, for example, a Ford Expedition, Ford Excursion, Ford King Ranch or Lincoln Navigator, which causes one or more lamps on the running board to flash when the turn signal of the vehicle is activated.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 27, 2002
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Inventor: Kenneth C. Whitmore
  • Patent number: 6499869
    Abstract: A device and method used by a driver to verify that he/she is positioning a vehicle safely within the designated lane of travel area of a roadway. The device includes an LED sighting unit having an aiming LED and an attachment mechanism for attaching the LED sighting unit to the windshield of a vehicle. In the method, the driver positions the vehicle safely within the lane of travel area of a roadway and then adjusts the position of the LED sighting unit until the aiming LED thereof is within the line of sight of the driver's eyes, while the driver is seated in the normal driving position, and the boundary line between the lanes or along the side of a roadway.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 31, 2002
    Inventor: Kenneth S. Southworth
  • Publication number: 20020196637
    Abstract: A position light (200) for use on an aircraft. The aircraft position light uses light sources (302) installed into an alignment fixture (304) which optionally carries away heat generated by the light sources. Light emitted by the light sources is directed into a first prism (308), which distributes and directs the light. A second prism (324) is used to further shape the pattern of the light. A lens (206) is installed over the position light (200) to protect it from the elements.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2001
    Publication date: December 26, 2002
    Inventors: Matthew B. Dubin, Brent D. Larson, Scott R. Mangum
  • Publication number: 20020196638
    Abstract: An apparatus for illuminating a license plate includes a reflector, one or more light emitting diodes mounted on a substrate, all positioned within a housing. The light emitting diode or diodes project light directed at the reflector. The reflector has a surface geometry for redirecting the light through a window in the housing such that it substantially uniformly illuminates the license plate. The apparatus preferably does not include a lens. The apparatus may include a light emitting diode or diodes and a curved free form reflector. The apparatus may also include a plurality of reflectors or reflector segments, each corresponding to a light emitting diode.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 25, 2001
    Publication date: December 26, 2002
    Inventors: Newel L. Stephens, Timothy W. Brooks
  • Patent number: 6491417
    Abstract: A night vision clearance light assembly includes a shell, an array of visible light emitting elements, and a night vision device. The visible light emitting elements are preferably LEDs mounted on a ring received in the shell. The night vision device is operatively connected to an associated night vision camera and sees through an opening in the ring and the lens. The assembly is easily mounted in a standard factory-cut clearance light housing in the exterior of a truck cab.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Assignee: Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC
    Inventors: Craig S. Haen, Mark A. Matko
  • Patent number: 6491418
    Abstract: An exhaust pipe with illuminating devices is formed by an inner pipe enclosed in an outer pipe. A gap is formed in between the two pipes. The gap comprises a light socket connected to at least one illuminating device. The light socket and the illuminating device are connected by means of an electric cord. The outer pipe comprises holes on its wall. When the illuminating devices are lighted, the light will shine from the tail end and the holes of the exhausting pipe either directly or reflectively.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 30, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 10, 2002
    Inventor: Kuo-Tai Chen
  • Patent number: 6474853
    Abstract: A floodlight that is adapted to projecting a pattern of light from the housing of a vehicle exterior mirror on an area adjacent a portion of the vehicle in order to create a lighted security zone in that area. The pattern extends laterally onto the vehicle and downwardly and rearwardly of the mirror housing. In this manner, the lighted security zone extends from the vehicle door to the rear of the vehicle. An actuator for the floodlight includes a base unit in the vehicle and a remote transmitter wherein the base unit is responsive to a signal from the remote transmitter in order to actuate the floodlight. The actuator may further include a lockout device in order to prevent actuation of the floodlight during operation of the vehicle. A signal light is additionally included in the exterior mirror housing in order to project a second pattern of light from the mirror housing extending laterally away from the vehicle and rearwardly of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 23, 2001
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2002
    Assignee: Donnelly Corporation
    Inventors: Todd W. Pastrick, Linda K. Molenkamp, Roger L. Koops
  • Patent number: 6471379
    Abstract: A waveguide illumination assembly for an automobile license plate includes a single light source and a transport or waveguide disposed outward from the license plate perimeter. The light source shines into one end of the waveguide. The waveguide has one or more arms, each of which has an array of reflective elements. Light is internally reflected as it travels through the waveguide until it strikes a reflective element, thereby directing light through an opposing longitudinal side of the waveguide arm and onto the license plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 21, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Assignee: Federal-Mogul World Wide, Inc.
    Inventors: Lloyd Keith Bucher, George Robert Hulse
  • Patent number: 6471368
    Abstract: A secondary alert light for a motor vehicle is composed of a light holder, a light convergence ring and light emission devices. Wherein, positioning posts protruding from a reflection cover on the light holder secures the light convergence ring which is light permeable having on one side provided with fluorescent material to collect the light, provided with posts to match those on the reflection cover and at least two grooves on its peripheral at equal spacing to house light emission devices for the light convergence ring collecting light emitted from the light emission devices by means of the light convergence material to create a significant light ring for improving alert effect.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 29, 2002
    Inventor: Yu-Chu Lin
  • 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: 6461022
    Abstract: A visible light source adapted to be mounted on the vehicle for generating visible light to be used to create warning signals which are viewed by observers remote from the vehicle. A dichroic element adapted to be mounted on the vehicle and adjacent to the visible light source transmits at least some of the visible light generated by the light source and reflects at least some of the visible light generated by the light source. The transmitted and reflected light provides warning light signals within different wavelength ranges when viewed by an observer remote from the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Assignee: Code 3, Inc.
    Inventors: Robert E. Kreutzer, Dennis A. Dohogne, Paul L. Stein
  • Patent number: 6461028
    Abstract: A vehicle side bumper and signal light assembly is constructed to include a hollow bumper having a longitudinal front slot, a signal light circuit board, and a transparent shell holding the signal light circuit board in the bumper. The shell has a lens with raised lens portions. Each raised lens portion has facets that reflect and refract the light of LEDs of the signal light circuit board toward the outside of the bumper through the longitudinal front slot.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 15, 2001
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2002
    Inventor: Chin-Jeng Huang
  • Publication number: 20020126497
    Abstract: A mirror assembly security system for a vehicle includes an exterior mirror assembly and a light module removably positioned within the exterior mirror housing. The light module is moisture impervious and includes an enclosure, a light-transmitting opening in the enclosure facing generally downwardly and/or rearwardly of the vehicle, a cover for the light-transmitting opening, and a light source in the enclosure radiating light through the light-transmitting opening. The light source may be received in a socket which removably engages another opening in the enclosure. In this manner, the light source may be replaced by removing the module from the exterior mirror housing, removing the socket from the enclosure and replacing the light source. The enclosure and mirror housing preferably are configured to self-retain the module in the exterior mirror moving with no, or fewer than one or two, separate fasteners.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 28, 2001
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Applicant: Donnelly Corporation, a corporation of the state of MI
    Inventor: Todd W. Pastrick
  • Publication number: 20020101728
    Abstract: A warning structure applied on transportation means and traffic facilities to improve nighttime drive safety essentially by applying an illuminating, primary course on the exposed mechanical parts such as a rim or a license plate on the transportation means or mark lines on roadway, then a finishing course of friction resistant coating is applied over and to protect the primary course, within, said illuminating course absorbs photo energy emitted from the sun and lights, then release such energy in visible light particularly during nighttime or rainy day to improve the visibility for the driver.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 30, 2001
    Publication date: August 1, 2002
    Inventor: Chien Chang Huang
  • Patent number: 6422728
    Abstract: A safety light for a vehicle is provided. The safety light includes a housing defining a retaining space. The housing is mountable to the vehicle proximate the rear end thereof. The safety light further includes a light source supported within the retaining space of the housing such that the light source projects a visual line of reference from the housing and onto a roadway on which the vehicle is traveling substantially coextensive to the rear end of the vehicle and perpendicular to the direction of travel of the vehicle so that the driver of the vehicle is able to determine the position of an adjacent obstacle relative to the rear end of the vehicle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 14, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Inventor: Russel A. Riggin
  • Publication number: 20020093829
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a component for a motor-vehicle lighting or indicator device. According to the invention, it consists of a transparent material within which light-diffusion foci consisting of local discontinuities are situated only at predetermined locations in order to diffuse the light emitted by a light source associated with the lighting or indicator device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 27, 2001
    Publication date: July 18, 2002
    Inventors: Ghislaine Pinson, Regis Duplessy
  • Patent number: 6394633
    Abstract: A baby carriage or stroller is provided with a built-in illumination electrical system, powered by a replaceable or rechargeable battery or by a solar panel. A headlamp or headlamps at the front illuminate the intended pathway of the carriage. Side lamps and a rear or tail lamp or lamps may be provided. The side and rear lamps are typically red as warnings. An interior or baby-illuminating lamp may be provided. One switch controls the interior light and another switch controls the other lights.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 28, 2002
    Inventor: Angel L. Perez
  • Patent number: 6382819
    Abstract: A vehicle running board for attachment to a vehicle, comprising a first running board component, a second running board component, a lamp assembly, and a coupling between the running board components. Also disclosed is a method and structure to operate running boards to emit light to indicate at least one of vehicular dome light activation, vehicular braking, vehicular reverse gear engagement, vehicular turn signaling, vehicular emergency signaling, remote keyless entry activation, and vehicular headlight activation. A support member receiver is disposed along the bottom side of the running board components and is optionally coupled with a support member, providing additional structural stability to the running board. Traction grooves are disposed on the top side of the running board components, and the vehicle running board may be formed by blow molding or rotational molding techniques to evenly distribute acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2000
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: California Dream, Inc.
    Inventor: Timothy P. McQuiston
  • Patent number: 6379029
    Abstract: A vehicle lighting fixture for securing to a vehicle, the lighting fixture includes a base panel having a base panel front surface and a base panel rear surface and having a non-invasive attachment mechanism on the base panel rear surface, and having a strap engaging mechanism; a laterally extending wire cover strap securable to the strap engaging mechanism and having a cover strap rear surface and having non-invasive attachment mechanism on the cover strap rear surface; a light source secured against the base panel front surface; a lens panel extending over the front of the light source and secured to the base panel front surface; and a lens frame secured over the lens panel and covering the perimeter of the lens panel, and connected to the lens panel by a lens frame connector mechanism.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2000
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Inventor: Martin P. Stanton
  • Publication number: 20020044452
    Abstract: An auxiliary light is adapted to removably mount on a body of a car at any selected position to function like a warning and decorating light. The removable auxiliary light for car includes a fixing seat for removably mounting onto the car, and a lamp connected to a top of the fixing seat. The lamp may also be directly coupled with a sidelight, a directional light, a stoplight or a reverse light of the car. A locating member may be turnably provided between the fixing seat and the lamp to allow angular adjustment of the lamp relative to the fixing seat via the locating member. The auxiliary light also has the function of testing a bank note for its genuineness.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 18, 2001
    Publication date: April 18, 2002
    Inventor: Ching-Hung Wang
  • Publication number: 20020044454
    Abstract: The present invention is a vehicular combination marker/clearance lamp for trucks and trailers using a reduced number of light-emitting diodes and an optics design using total internal reflection to produce the light intensity and angular distribution required by the Department of Transportation. The present invention accomplishes this goal by utilizing a one-piece optical system. The system possesses a collimating lens, ribbed structures, and a modified conical shape, which will concentrate and distribute the light produced by the light-emitting diodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 23, 2001
    Publication date: April 18, 2002
    Inventors: Phillip C. Roller, Chris A. Suckow, Ronald Madison, Timothy Dipenti