Abstract: The portable advertising system of the present invention comprises a body having a first end and a display support, at least one universal attachment system adapted for securing the body to a vehicle proximate the first end, at least one exterior wall arranged to display an advertisement, and the display support securing an illumination source directed towards the at least one exterior wall. The at least one exterior wall and the illumination source may be integrated into an electronic display unit. The at least one exterior wall may also be an advertising sheet composed of vinyl and the illumination source may be a plurality of light emitting diodes. The portable advertising system may include a railroad car arranged to receive the at least one universal attachment system.

Abstract: One aspect relates to generating a repeatably displaceable emanating element display that may display at least part of an at least one synchronously modifiable oriented image based at least in part on alterable vehicle-related information, wherein the repeatably displaceable emanating element display may be synchronously modified as perceivable by a viewer at least partially by synchronizing an at least one repeatably displaceable display emanating element based at least in part on an orientation of the repeatably displaceable emanating element display as synchronously modified as perceivable by the viewer.

Abstract: A novel advertising method at least includes: receiving at least one advertising placement offer for the placement of an advertisement, the offer including proposed consideration; accepting an advertising placement order; and displaying an advertisement which is the subject of an accepted advertising placement order on a plurality of mobile, changeable advertising message displays carried by a plurality of coordinated automobiles, which changeable displays are capable of displaying more than one separate advertising message at different times. Each changeable advertising message display at least includes: a visual display; a multiple advertising message generator coupled to the visual display, the multiple advertising message generator adapted to generate a plurality of different advertising messages; and an advertising message selector adapted to select a current advertising message to be displayed.

Abstract: A system and method for providing a driving or driver level indicator for a given driver are provided, as well as the driver level indicator. The driver level indicator can indicate a level of driver experience, inexperience, competency, or status of the driver, and can be presented or displayed at or in a vehicle operated by the driver, to alert or inform other drivers as to the level of driver experience, inexperience, competency, or status of the driver operating the vehicle.

Abstract: A trunk lid cover in combination with a car spoiler. The trunk lid cover is of flexible material and is disposed for covering the trunk lid only of an automobile. The trunk lid cover is held tightly against the surface of said trunk lid. A car spoiler attached to the trunk lid cover. A message display is mounted to the trunk lid cover or to the car spoiler.

Abstract: A hood ornament includes a circular base plate having a bolt extending from the lower surface that is inserted through a hole formed in the vehicle hood; a locking nut is attached to the bolt to tightly anchor the base plate to the hood. An ornament member includes a sight mounted on a foundation having a key latch depending therefrom that releasably seats within a keyed receptacle formed in the base plate. The foundation includes an oblique lower surface to assure that the sight extends at a discrete angle relative to the base plate when the ornament is secured thereto. Accordingly, if the base plate is mounted on a downwardly-sloped surface, the sight will be substantially vertical.

Abstract: A system and method for mounting a badge to a component of a vehicle is provided. The system comprises a mounting base including first and second fastening apertures defined therein, and a trim ring coupled with the mounting base having an opening defined therein. The badge is adapted to be securely mounted between the trim ring and the mounting base so that the badge is positioned within the opening in the trim ring. The system further includes a flexible fastening member that is configured to be positioned within the first and second fastening apertures, positioned around at least a portion of the component of the vehicle, and between the mounting base and the badge to fasten the badge to the vehicle.

Abstract: A system and method for mounting a badge to a component of a vehicle is provided. The system comprises a mounting base including first and second fastening apertures defined therein, and a trim ring coupled with the mounting base having an opening defined therein. The badge is adapted to be securely mounted between the trim ring and the mounting base so that the badge is positioned within the opening in the trim ring. The system further includes a flexible fastening member that is configured to be positioned within the first and second fastening apertures, positioned around at least a portion of the component of the vehicle, and between the mounting base and the badge to fasten the badge to the vehicle.

Abstract: An interchangeable display system for attachment to a motor vehicle is presented. The display system can be used in a hitch cover, a license plate frame, or other systems that are attached to vehicles for the purpose of displaying desired indicia. In one aspect, the display system has a body configured for attachment to a portion of a motor vehicle and a display member for displaying the indicia. The body defines at least one display recess. The display recess is sized to accept the display member.

Abstract: A vehicle identification device includes one or more clips configured to attach the device to a vehicle door or window. The identification device optionally includes reflective material so that the vehicle is more easily seen. The identification device optionally includes identification indicia such as letters or numbers. The identification device is optionally deployed from within the vehicle, thus improving safety.

Abstract: A vehicle with a trunk where the trunk lid pivots upwardly to provide access to the trunk and a latch for holding for the trunk lid closed is provided with a removable display device in the rear of the vehicle. The display device comprises a sheet of flexible material having a display on an outer surface thereof, an upper pocket or the upper edge of the sheet with a first rod therein for holding the display device in the trunk when the trunk is closed, and optionally a lower pocket with another rod therein for maintaining the displayed device displayed while the vehicle moves. Optionally there is a cutout in an upper portion of the sheet for receiving the latch.

Abstract: The automobile display apparatus provides a triangular caution that easily attaches to and detaches from an automobile driven by a new driver. The apparatus, most importantly, attaches without damage to the auto but also insures that detachment is by choice only. The majority of the apparatus is fully flexible, thereby further improving adhesion. The inverted triangle is easily recognized as a cautionary symbol. Part of the reflective indicia is designed to progressively become a recognized symbol for a new driver so that the printed words may be omitted, by choice, in the future. Additionally, the indicia of the young person in the car serve the same purpose as an identifiable symbol to most motorists of a new or young driver. Identifying the driver as new encourages other motorists in the vicinity to be cautious and to also adapt a more courteous posture toward the new driver.

Abstract: An advertising board for a vehicle and an apparatus for fixing an advertising screen, which can fix the advertising screen, attached to one side of the vehicle, in the condition that the advertising screen is spread with a desired tension. The advertising board for vehicle includes an advertising screen; a screen coupling part which is formed along edge sides of the advertising screen; a wall surface coupling part which is fixed to a wall surface of the vehicle; and tension means which pulls the screen coupling part toward the wall surface coupling part.

Abstract: Mobile display apparatus and methods of operating mobile display apparatus are disclosed. Mobile display apparatus include a structure for attaching the display apparatus to a mobile structure and at least one display module coupled to the structure. The mobile display apparatus may include a ventilation feature. Methods of operating mobile display apparatus include disposing a plurality of removable display modules within a frame structure. A channel may be formed between the plurality of removable display modules and the frame structure and fluid may be forced through the channel and at least partially across the plurality of removable display modules.

Abstract: A mobile advertising system includes a banner, a first banner anchor and a second banner anchor coupled to a vehicle. The banner is capable of being deployed by being connected at opposing ends to and suspended between the first and second banner anchors. The banner has first and second surfaces on which indicia are imprinted. Both the first and second banner surfaces are visible when the banner is deployed. An invoicing and tracking system may be included that computes an advertising charge based at least in part on a time period during which the banner is deployed and, optionally, a location of the vehicle.

Abstract: An example grille badge includes an outer member and an inner member configured to be snapped together. The inner member includes a living hinge to facilitate the connection to the outer member. The inner member is at least initially inserted into the outer member in a bent position, the inner member being bent or snapped into place via the living hinge provided thereto during manufacturing and/or assembly. In certain example embodiments, the outer element includes at least one slot for receiving at least one corresponding tab provided to the inner element. In certain example embodiments, the inner and outer members include corresponding snap features for securing the connection therebetween. An assembled grille badge may be connected, directly or indirectly, to a vehicle (e.g., to the vehicle, to a front-end assembly, to a grille, etc.), for example, using one or more snap features.

Abstract: Method and apparatus provide for attaching a planar electroluminescent lamp unit (140a-140g) to the side (138) of a train (100), and providing a film (120) adhered to the surface of the lamp unit (140a-140g) and to the side of the train adjacent the lamp unit, wherein the film has printed thereon advertising indicia (130a-130d). The lamp unit is connected to a source of power on the train.

Abstract: Systems and methods for vehicle mounted infrared wavelength information displays for traffic camera viewers are disclosed. A method includes obtaining vehicle positioning data associated with at least one vehicle and, based upon the vehicle positioning data, selectively emitting infrared wavelength light from a set of a plurality of light emitting diodes (LEDs) arranged on exterior surfaces of the at least one vehicle.

Abstract: A magnetic sign and accompanying method for advertising a property is described. A sign with property information, and/or an owner/seller's contact information is magnetically attached to an automobile, effectively creating a mobile advertisement for a personal property. The inventive method may be utilized by private sellers, selling personal property, or by a larger entity, such as a real estate company.

Abstract: A straddle-type vehicle has a decorative member that a user can repeatedly use and that is utilized for a purpose other than design. The decorative member covers a fastening part of an exterior cover of the vehicle and has a lid with a decorated exterior surface. A base is attached to the exterior cover to support the lid. The lid is attached to the exterior cover via the base, and removal of the lid from the exterior cover is restricted by assembly of the base in the exterior cover.

Abstract: Disclosed is a system for decorating architectural columns. The system includes opposing dowels that are contained within cylindrical housings. Banner-type decorations extend between the cylindrical housings. The cylindrical housings also include upper and lower access openings. Strap assemblies are also included that extend around the dowels via the access openings. The banner-type decorations are secured to the face of an architectural column by securing the upper and lower strap assemblies.

Abstract: A brake-actuated message device. An illustrative embodiment of the brake-actuated message device includes a device casing having a front panel, a plurality of lights carried by the front panel, a message panel carried by the front panel generally adjacent to the plurality of lights, a message provided in the message panel, a lighting module connected to the plurality of lights and brake circuit wiring connected to the lighting module.

Abstract: A system for displaying a banner (70) on a vehicle comprises mounting means (160) having channels (163), retaining means (112) for retaining the banner and associated with first and second locking members (124, 140) for engagement with the channels, the first locking member having a strut (134) locatable in a first channel, the second locking member having a second protruding strut (148) locatable in the same channel, and the first locking member further having a third protruding strut (135) spaced apart from the first strut and locatable within a second channel. When the locking members (124, 140) are aligned, the first strut (134) and second strut (148) are adjacent each other, the adjacent sides being parallel and the struts are located in the channels for secure attachment to the mounting means. The retaining means (112) may be connectable to the first locking member (124), e.g. by a pivot (115, 117), or it may form an integral member (53, 54, 35) therewith.

Abstract: A method of providing a user controllable sign, on the trailer of a tractor-trailer rig. The tractor includes a cab and the trailer is electrically connected to the tractor by way of a jack that provides a set number of electrical connections between the tractor and the trailer. The method begins with the installation of a manual input device in the cab. This device creates a signal that can be overlaid on a jack input without disrupting the input and is electrically connected to a jack input. Also, a signal receiving unit is installed in the trailer, and is connected to a wire electrically connected to the jack input that receives the user signal from the manual input device. This unit is able to determine the presence of the signal from the manual input device. Also installed in the trailer, is a sign deployment controller that is at least in part responsive to the user signal receiving unit. Finally, a sign assembly, controlled by the sign deployment controller, is installed.

Abstract: A system for mounting signage onto the door area of a vehicle is disclosed. The system includes a mounting assembly, a display pan, and one or more inserts removably received within the display pan. The fastener assembly permits the selective reorientation of the display pan from a first position, in which the pan is oriented along the rear face of the cargo area, to a second position, in which the display pan is oriented away from the rear face of the cargo area. The inserts may include an indicia panel, a backing panel, an electroluminescent panel, and/or a support or cushioning panel. In operation, the system is mounted onto the rear facing surface of a cargo vehicle containing overhead or swing-open doors.

Abstract: A system for mounting a sign to a vehicle includes a bar connected to the vehicle. A clamp assembly includes first and second jaw members adapted to frictionally engage the bar between the first and second jaw members. At least one structural member supports the first and second jaw members. A sign assembly includes a support frame having the at least one structural member connected to the support frame. A frame member is slidably received by and releasably engaged to the support frame. A sign connected to the frame member is adapted to be positioned in each of a stowed and a deployed position.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a vehicle mountable display device. The device includes a first adversarial profile and a second adversarial profile. Between the first adversarial profile and the second adversarial profile is a first extension, which is part of or attached to the first adversarial profile. The first extension is made of a flexible material and/or pivotably or flexibly connected to the first adversarial profile such that while driving the extension can move back and forth in the appearance of slapping or hitting the second adversarial profile. The first adversarial profile is preferably a user's preferred choice and the second adversarial profile is preferably a rival or challenger, thereby effectively communicating a user's preferred choice, while also communicating the adversarial nature between the two with minimal or no words. The device further includes a mounting element for securely attaching to the vehicle.

Abstract: An antenna ball assembly which can display a design or the like thereon and a method of use is disclosed. The antenna ball assembly has a body having a passage therethrough, a rearward projecting member and at least one flexible stopper. A flexible stopper is preferably positioned at each of the bottom and the top of an antenna. The body is positioned between the stoppers on the antenna with the antenna passing through the passage in the body. The rearward projecting member has a free end and is of a predetermined length with an extended width over at least a portion of the length, wherein the extended width is greater than the width of the antenna ball body. The rearward projecting member forms an angle of preferably from about 20° to less than 50° with the vertical axis of the passage through the body. The angled rearward projecting member controls the movement of the body, thereby allowing the body to move up the antenna as the antenna moves, such as when attached to a car.

Abstract: A display cover for a vehicle fuel door with a broad area for the placement of a printed logo or message. The display cover conformably surrounds the fuel door with a contractile elastic belt to draw the cover tightly about the fuel door. The outward exposed surface of the cover visually displays a message or logo in a trendy location. The cover is designed to display the message in a novel location and still be easily removed without marring the vehicle finish unlike a traditional bumper sticker.

Abstract: An advertisement system comprises a visible cover for a merchandise-carrying container of a vehicle, the cover being shaped and/or decorated in association with the merchandise to be contained therein and/or with the advertisement provided on the cover. The cover can include a shell adapted to be mounted to the container of the vehicle. The cover is typically removably mounted to the container. Also, the advertisement system can be embodied in a merchandise-carrying container for a vehicle, the container being shaped and/or decorated in association with the merchandise to be contained therein and/or with the advertisement provided on the container. Furthermore, wraps may be applied on the container with images being provided on the wrap to provide various 3D or 3D-type advertisement effects.

Abstract: A combination hang-tag holder and displayer which includes a body; one or more fasteners of sufficient size to attach the body to an automobile sun visor; a hanging device located on the front of the body, either on the left side or right side, such that a hang-tag may be temporarily hung from the hanging device without requiring physical modifications to the hang-tag; and a securing device located on the front of the body on the upper corner opposite the hanging device. The combination hang-tag holder and displayer may be attached to an automobile sun visor, and a hang-tag may be hung from the hanging device for display of the hang-tag. The hang-tag may then be rotated to a horizontal position and secured by the securing device for storage.

Abstract: A display system to mount to a selective portion of a motor vehicle. The display system may be used to display any number of graphical images. The display system is configured to selectively mount thereto various portions of the motor vehicle. The display system may be mounted to a metallic surface of the vehicle, to a hitch receptacle, to a license plate holder, or to a portion of the vehicle grill.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a selectively attachable display assembly for a motor vehicle. The invention comprises a base member and a display member. The base member is selectively secured to the vehicle rim and the display member is rotatably mounted relative to the base member such that it can rotate in relation to the base member and, thus, the vehicle rim. In one aspect, a portion of the display member is sufficiently weighted such that, when the rim rotates (when the vehicle is in motion) the display member remains substantially static.

Abstract: A novelty sporting accessory (100) includes a placard (101) having text (103) disposed thereon. A coupling device (104) is coupled to the placard (101). The coupling device (104) can be configured to couple to trailer hitch assemblies, windows, rear-view mirrors, antennas, trailer hitch balls, walls, and other devices. A first thin length (111) and second thin length (112) of flexible material are coupled to either the placard (101) or the coupling device (104). A sporting appurtenance (113,114) is coupled—distally from the placard (101)—to the lengths of flexible material so as to dangle when the placard (101) when the placard (101) is arranged in a vertical orientation.

Abstract: A device and system is provided for alerting or signaling a vehicle driver after the driver leaves a vehicle compartment. A signaling device, in a deployed condition, is physically located in a forward line-of-sight of a driver operator of the vehicle. The signaling device is deployed automatically in the event of the opening of a vehicle door from the inside of a vehicle compartment. Resetting of the signaling device, out of the line-of-sight, requires manual operation by the vehicle operator outside the vehicle compartment. The system ensures that the operator will be alerted to safety procedures required after activities outside vehicle.

Abstract: An emergency signaling apparatus includes a portable base member, a telescopically adjustable and rectilinear pole, a plurality of brackets, and a flag directly coupled to the brackets and adaptable between compressed and expanded positions when the brackets are displaced along a longitudinal length of the pole. A mechanism is included for simultaneously articulating and linearly displacing the pole about at least two mutually exclusive axes respectively in such a manner that the flag is automatically returned to an equilibrium position defined along a vertically oriented plane after being biased about the at least two mutually exclusive axes.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a system and method for connecting attachments to a vehicle, which generally includes a first piece and a second piece depending thereon. The first piece is a locator piece connected to the vehicle adjacent the license plate or the trunk of a vehicle. For instance, the first piece may be secured or locked to a license plate using a locking mechanism, which includes a cam and rods. In another embodiment, the first piece may be a support bracket dimensioned and configured to rest over a rim of a trunk without interfering with the normal functions of a lock on the trunk. The second piece can include a variety of devices such as and not limited to a bumper guard or a tray. The second piece may depend from and be removably connected to the first piece. By the second piece being removably connectable to the first piece, the second piece can be easily replaced when damaged or worn or interchanged.

Abstract: An advertising display trailer for a bicycle, the trailer including a base, a coupling for coupling the base to the bicycle, and a display body mounted to the base is disclosed. The display body may be configured so as to pivot relative to the base. A display trailer including a base and a structure mounted to the base for carrying a display body such that the display body is able to pivot relative to the base. Also disclosed is a bicycle trailer for carrying an advertising sign, wherein the trailer has a base adapted to carry the advertising sign such that the sign extends generally upwardly from the base. In one form, a structure of the trailer is such that it is designed only to carry the advertising sign.

Abstract: A vehicle height display system has an information displaying sheet, pre-printed indicia disposed on the information displaying sheet and a variable information field immediately adjacent the variable information field indicia. The information displaying sheet is made of a flexible material with a front side and a rear side. The rear side is configured to cause the information displaying sheet to adhere to a windshield of a vehicle when the rear side of the information displaying sheet is brought into contact the windshield. The pre-printed indicia is readable from the front side of the information displaying sheet, specifies non-variable information associated with designating an overall height of a vehicle and includes variable information field indicia configured for having the overall height of the vehicle displayed therewith. The variable information field is immediately adjacent the variable information field indicia and is configured for having the overall height of the vehicle displayed therein.

Abstract: A fuel type information collar is provided. The fuel type information collar is configured to engage an outer perimeter of a fuel tank filler pipe assembly of an automotive vehicle. It may include an inner perimeter defining an aperture configured to engage the outer perimeter of the fuel tank filler pipe assembly. It may additionally include a top surface including indicia of fuel type information for indicating type of fuel to be used by the automotive vehicle. It may further include a plurality of radial finger cuts angularly spaced around the inner perimeter, the plurality of radial finger cuts forming a plurality of fingers that engage the outer perimeter of the fuel tank filler pipe assembly.

Abstract: A warning plate assembly for indicating the excess width of a tractor, in particular an agricultural tractor. The assembly comprises a holder having a fixing part (1) attached to the vehicle and a deployable arm (3) carrying the warning plate (9). The deployable arm (3) is swivellable about a vertical swivel axis (2a) of the fixing part between a lockable deployed position, in which the deployable arm and the warning plate are disposed transversely to the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, and a lockable retracted position in which the deployable arm is disposed substantially in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle. The length of the deployable arm (3) is adjustable (6,7) to cater for different widths of vehicle. The warning plate may be in two halves (10,11) hinged about a vertical axis so that the halves can be folded one over the over for storage.

Abstract: A method of presenting sales information to an automobile customer on an automobile having a window that may be slid vertically within a window frame. The method uses an informational slip and a slip holder sized to accept the information slip. The slip holder includes a clip defines a downwardly facing open channel and a tongue extending downwardly from the front wall. Also, a sheet of resiliently deformable material is attached to the tongue and bent backwards at a bending point defining the sheet holder bottom and a rear panel extending upwardly from the bending point. The informational slip is placed on the car window so that information is displayed through the front portion, which is transparent. The clip is formed so as to press the sheet into the window, thereby acting to reduce gaps between the informational slip and the front panel and, as a consequence, enhancing slip visibility.

Abstract: The objective of the present invention is to implement a wheel cap device including; a spindle (30) established in the centermost portion of a wire wheel cap (44) of a wire wheel; and a ornamental image (24) consisting of an aesthetic feature casted thereupon and mechanically joining with wire wheel cap (44) and encompassing a bearing assembly (32) and counterbalance (34); whereby upon wheel rotation to coordinately revolve spindle (30) fixed to wire wheel cap (44) ornamental image (24) will be situated vertically consistently relative to the rotation of the wire wheel and wire wheel cap (44) to thereby display ornamental image (24) plainly, and perceivably.

Abstract: A display framing method includes assembling a backing panel, a two-dimensional light emitting device, one or more spacers and a protective panel, to form a display frame. The backing panel supports the light emitting device; the spacers define a space between the light emitting device and the protective panel. The method also includes sealing all but one unsealed edge adjoining the space, allowing access to the space. A display framing system includes a backing panel that supports a two-dimensional light emitting device, a protective panel, and one or more spacers that define a space between the light emitting device and the protective panel. The light emitting device, the backing panel, and the protective panel align to form a plurality of edges. All but one of the edges are sealed with one or more sealants such that advertising material may be inserted into the space through the unsealed edge.

Abstract: A system for displaying a banner (70) on a vehicle comprises mounting means (160) having channels (163), retaining means (112) for retaining the banner and associated with first and second locking members (124, 140) for engagement with the channels, the first locking member having a strut (134) locatable in a first channel, the second locking member having a second protruding strut (148) locatable in the same channel, and the first locking member further having a third protruding strut (135) spaced apart from the first strut and locatable within a second channel. When the locking members (124, 140) are aligned, the first strut (134) and second strut (148) are adjacent each other, the adjacent sides being parallel and the struts are located in the channels for secure attachment to the mounting means. The retaining means (112) may be connectable to the first locking member (124), e.g. by a pivot (115, 117), or it may form an integral member (53, 54, 35) therewith.

Abstract: The present invention consists of an electronic vehicle tag (EVT), which is preferably 12×6 inches. It consists of an encasement mountable by 4 screws to a motor vehicle. The front face is comprised of an electronic paper display technology, which requires no power consumption to maintain its image. The electronic paper display will hold a high resolution full color graphic design relating to the vehicle tag selected and tag information depending on the state of issuances requirements. The display is reflective and can be easily read in sunlight or dimly lit environments and at virtually any angle. The plate has an electronic paper technology for display, wireless communication transmitter/receiver, logic board for electronic paper manipulation, high impact encasement, and a battery pack. The battery pack is used to change the display when required. The electronic vehicle tag is independent of the vehicle in which it is attached.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is an apparatus for marketing automobiles. The device comprises a receptacle (preferably tubular) that may be attached to the automobile without risk of damage to the automobile. The receptacle may be used to contain documents providing information about the automobile to prospective purchasers.

Abstract: A warning sign that is attached to a spring-loaded roller contained in a housing, which is then secured to the truck or trailer. When the sign must be displayed, the driver simply pulls the sign from the housing and extends it across the vehicle's bumper. When it is fully extended, the free end is secured to mounting fasteners located on the vehicle. In this way, the sign is ready for use, clean and in good condition. After the load has been hauled and the sign is no longer needed, it can be released and rolled back inside the housing, ready for the next use. The housing can be installed on trucks, pilot vehicles, heavy equipment, and trailers and can be deployed whenever needed simply be pulling the sign out and securing it to the vehicle.

Abstract: A media system for distributing visual content includes a display and a host. The host is remotely located from the display and coupled to the display over a communication network. The display is supported by an article. The host includes a computer storage medium including visual content. At least a portion of the visual content is submitted to the host by a client. The host includes a processor configured to selectively transmit visual content to the display and configured to receive data corresponding to display activity of the selected visual content on the display. A reporting module reports the data corresponding to the display activity to the client and the subscriber.

Abstract: An advertising sign includes an advertising element having a base, mounting means pivotably connected to the base for securing the advertising sign to a mounting surface, and at least one protrusion extending between the base and the mounting means such that a range of pivotal motion of the mounting means relative to the base is more limited in an area of the protrusion than in other areas.