Abstract: Identification and antitheft devices for parts of a motor vehicle including the preparation of a plurality of metal plates provided with different inscriptions including several embossed or texturized information, such as the chassis number, the licensing plate number, color, manufacture year, series, model, owner and/or other required data. The plates are permanently fixed in different locations in the vehicle, such as the passenger compartment, vehicle body, bumpers, wheels (including spare tire), drive shaft, gearbox, transmissions, doors, mudguards and/or other places.

Abstract: An elevatable multi-function signboard system for highway vehicles, such as pavement/roadway sweepers, carries a warning/signal system that can be moved between a lowered position and an elevated position. In the lowered position, the signboard also functions to cover and protect auxiliary equipment mounted at the rear of the vehicle. The signboard is mounted to the vehicle by a multiple bar linkage and raised and lowered by a hydraulic cylinder arrangement under the control of the vehicle operator. The multiple bar linkage allows the signboard to swing-out rearwardly of the vehicle as the signboard is raised to effectively uncover any auxiliary equipment carried on the sweeper.

Abstract: A signage display for a vehicle having a hitch receiver is provided that includes a frame defining a placard receiving area. A tongue is coupled to the frame that extends rearwardly from the frame and away from the receiving area. The tongue is adapted to be received within the hitch receiver of the vehicle. A placard is removably coupled to the frame within the placard receiving area of the frame. The signage display may thus be removably coupled to the hitch receiver of the vehicle. The vehicle owner may change the placard within the receiving area to display a variety of messages, thus alleviating the problem associated with conventional bumper stickers. In one embodiment, the frame is provided with a light socket and light that allow the placard to be illuminated.

Abstract: A message display device for selectively displaying a variety of different messages from the rear of a vehicle. The message display device includes a message box that has a message plate with an inscribed message removably mounted thereon. The message box is secured on top of an adjustable bracket or a fixed bracket that is mounted to a vehicle surface. The message box is preferably mounted just inside the rear window, facing outward. The message display device is connected to the fuse box and is provided with a control switch that is mounted on the dash board of the vehicle to allow the driver to activate the message display device to illuminate the message plate.

Abstract: A method for displaying information in a vehicle window. A first step involves providing a window display apparatus which includes a substantially planar body having a first face and a second face. The body has an integrally formed pocket with a transparent viewing window on one of the first face and the second face. A second step involves inserting a sheet having printed information into the pocket with the printed information visible through the transparent viewing window. A third step involves inserting the body into a window well of a vehicle with the transparent viewing window of the pocket against a window of the vehicle such that the printed information is visible through the window of the vehicle.

Abstract: A vehicle locator device including an easily visible flag with recognizable indicia thereon, such as vendor advertising logs, wherein the flag is supported above the top height of the vehicle by an elongated compression spring pole or mast at a distal end thereof. Because of the compression spring, the vehicle locator is foldable about itself into a loop, so that it can be reduced in size and fit within the glove compartment of a vehicle for storage when not in use.

Abstract: The present invention is for an alpha-numeric character display panel which is a low profile electronic alpha-numeric character display panel which utilizes pre-existing geometrically configured framework members. The low profile electronic alpha-numeric character display panel is of waterproof construction suitable for outdoor use and can be mounted in areas requiring minimal spatial impact with respect to depth.

Abstract: A releasable suction cup is formed with a tab formed integral with its rim, and with a release filament attached to the tab. On assembly of the suction cup with a panel to be mounted to a smooth surface by the suction cup, the release filament is threaded through a hole in the panel so that an end of the release filament is accessible adjacent the panel surface that is opposite from the suction cup. When the panel is mounted with the suction cup to the smooth surface, the suction cup can be released by pulling on the accessible end of the release filament. A second embodiment of the invention consists of a double-sided suction cup wherein each cup member has a tab with a release filament attached to its tab and threaded through a hole in the panel to be mounted to a smooth surface. With one side of the double-sided suction cup attached to the smooth surface, the release filament connected to that suction cup side remains accessible through the panel to be pulled to release the suction cup.

Abstract: A temporary license device configured for removable mounting to an interior surface of a vehicle window includes an elongated generally rectangular plate formed of transparent plastic material. The plate is flexible to conform to a curvature of the vehicle window and has a memory characteristic enabling the plate to return to its original shape after being mounted. Each side of the plate has a protective sheet removably attached thereto to prevent damage to the plate prior to mounting. The plate and protective sheets have a plurality of apertures extending therethrough. A plurality of suction cups are removably connected to the plate to mount the plate to the vehicle window.

Abstract: A golf cart display apparatus consisting of a rigid transparent material in which superior, graphic golf course maintenance reminders may be placed in a picture type frame. The device is to be sized to fit between or on the upstanding roof support posts on both sides of a motorized golf cart. The display will also be used by local and national merchants for the purpose of advertising their products and services to golfers in the cart and also on the course.

Abstract: A vehicle bumper locator to be mounted to the existing license plate mounting holes of a vehicle. The bumper locator includes a horizontal frame member with openings that register with the license plate mounting holes. A bracket is pivotally attached to the frame near one end thereof. The bracket carries a resiliently mounted elongated rod that is movable between a vertical position visible to the driver, and a horizontal position extending parallel to the frame. Horizontal and vertical stops are attached to the frame and contact the bracket to limit its pivotal movement to a 90° arc.

Abstract: A device for removably holding and pressing a holder or carrier, supporting a graphics or textual display, against the interior of a raisable auto window by means of a leaf spring hooked over the top edge of the window and configured to exert force against the carrier when raised.

Abstract: A car locator that uses a pluraity of visual indicators to help the owner locate a car in a crowded parking lot.

Abstract: The present invention pertains to a method of flying and a means of securing pennants, logos, flags or indicia on a vehicle. It is desired in some special cases to display pennants, logos, flags or indicia on a vehicle. The vehicle mounting bracket used for this purpose according to the present invention can secure said pennant, logo, flag or indicia, at one end, and at the other end be attached onto the door, trunk, hood or window of a vehicle. Further, the mounting bracket can secure the pole of a pennant, logo, flag or indicia onto a convertible car, nonconvertible car, van, truck, lorry, etc, in a vertical or horizontal position.

Abstract: A banner and support assembly for supporting a banner or flag to a vertical rod, such as a motor vehicle antenna, in an unfurled state at all times. The assembly includes a banner formed of cloth or other flexible material and a banner support for attaching the banner to the antenna. The banner has a vertical sleeve disposed at a side edge of the banner for receiving the antenna, and a vertical sleeve disposed at the upper edge of the banner for receiving the banner support. The banner support includes a vertical clip portion and a horizontal arm disposed at the upper end of the clip portion. The clip portion is generally C-shaped having an inner diameter less than the outer diameter of the antenna to receive the banner and antenna to frictionally clamp the banner to the antenna. The arm portion of the support extends through the vertical sleeve of the banner to maintain the banner in the unfurled state at all times.

Abstract: Each element in an array of display elements has first and second limiting positions and in respective limiting positions selectively displays a bright and a dark surface in a viewing direction. A transparent sheet is intermediate the array and the viewer. Conductors on the sheet power light sources in the sheet to thereby direct light toward the array.

Abstract: An improved auto emergency warning marker, designed to be hung on an automobile side window, is made of molded plastic and includes a reflective base member and two reflective side members which fold to a compact storage configuration when not in use, but which interlock to make a highly visible triangle. Integrally molded with the base member are a hook positioned proximate one end of the base member, which hook curves outward away from the base member to fit over the top of an automobile side window which has been cranked partially open and a pad holder with attached resilient pad positioned near the center of the base member which contacts the window exterior to support the marker thereon. The improved warning marker will remain solidly anchored on an automobile side window, once positioned there, even in the face of gusting wind conditions.

Abstract: A road surface condition determination system for an automotive vehicle comprises wheel-speed sensors, and a control unit being configured to be electrically connected to the wheel-speed sensors for data-processing a wheel-speed data signal. The control unit calculates a wheel-speed fluctuation of each of the road wheels on the basis of a previous value of the wheel-speed data signal and a current value of the wheel-speed data signal, and calculates an absolute value of the wheel-speed fluctuation of each of the road wheels. A integration circuit is provided to produce a first integrated value of the absolute values of the wheel-speed fluctuations of the road wheels. A smoothing circuit is provided to make a smoothing operation to the integrated value to produce a smoothed value. A road-surface condition determining section is also provided to determine a road surface condition on the basis of the smoothed value.

Abstract: A display plate kit 10 is provided which allows a message display plate 20 to be attached to the rear bumper B of a vehicle V in various modes without the use of adhesives. In a first mode, the plate 20 may be attached to a tow ball T on a vehicle V by means of a top tab 30 having a slot 35 to receive a post P of the tow ball T which is threadably secured to a tow ball nut N. In a second mode, the plate 20 may be attached by means of bottom tabs 40 with holes 45 whose spacing corresponds to those of a standard license plate L so that the same screws 47 used to attach the license plate L to the vehicle V may be used to secure the display plate 20 to the front or rear bumper B of the vehicle V. In a third mode, the display plate 20 may be attached to a receiver R extending from a vehicle V by means of a tube 60 which is attachable to a front surface 24 of the display plate 20 and slidably mates with the receiver R.

Abstract: An antenna cover apparatus for securement to a vertically oriented antenna of an associated vehicle. The antenna cover apparatus includes an exterior casing portion, an insert apparatus, and at least one streamer portion. The exterior casing portion is configured in the shape of a sports helmet and defines an interior cavity for promoting a favorite sports team. The insert apparatus is snugly fitted inside of said interior cavity for enabling said novel antenna cover apparatus to be slid onto the antenna. At least one streamer portion is attached to said insert portion for adding flare to said antenna cover apparatus to provide a more eye-catching promotion than conventional antenna covers.

Abstract: A display plate kit 10 is provided which allows a message display plate 20 to be attached to the rear bumper B of a vehicle V in various modes without the use of adhesives. In a first mode, the plate 20 may be attached to a tow ball T on a vehicle V by means of a top tab 30 having a slot 35 to receive a post P of the tow ball T which is threadably secured to a tow ball nut N. In a second mode, the plate 20 may be attached by means of bottom tabs 40 with holes 45 whose spacing corresponds to those of a standard license plate L so that the same screws 47 used to attach the license plate L to the vehicle V may be used to secure the display plate 20 to the front or rear bumper B of the vehicle V. In a third mode, the display plate 20 may be attached to a receiver R extending from a vehicle V by means of a tube 60 which is attachable to a front surface 24 of the display plate 20 and slidably mates with the receiver R.

Abstract: A mobile display system comprises one or more movable billboard displays, equipped with externally viewable display panels and a controller. The display is moved from location zone to location zone by a transporter which may comprise a person or a vehicle. The controller ascertains the display location and drives the display to generate a publicly viewable message selected for viewing within such location zone. The message is displayed pursuant to a schedule which includes date, time of day and display duration while the display is within the zone or until the display is located in another zone which is not included within the message schedule. A tiered system control network includes a plurality of fixed stations which transmit message content and scheduling data to the controller and which generate billing and other accounting records. An advertiser may communicate with the network for creating and changing message content and scheduling data.

Abstract: A decorative ornament for a hood of an automobile includes a weather resistant first layer and a second layer adhesively bonded to said first weather resistant layer. The first weather resistant layer may have a design printed or placed on by other technique including by ink or photography. The second layer has magnetic properties which connects the second layer flatly and firmly to the hood of the car to decorate the car.

Abstract: A coupon holder and presentation article comprises a band made of a flexible sheet material, such as paper and the like, that has a first planar surface and a second planar surface. The design includes a designation on the first planar surface that will imply a fold line, score or other like specification, to divide the first planar surface into plural zones, The second planar surface will reflect similar zones as the first planar surface. The band will be printed to include information and/or photographs, drawings, illustrations, graphics, and the like, about (but not limited to) any type of product, service, special offer, discount or coupon for any type of business.

Abstract: A multi-purpose vehicle ornament includes a hollow base component configured to resemble a select figurine, such as an animal's head, having one or more apertures thereon in communication with an interior chamber. The base component includes a neck portion adapted to receive a trailer hitch ball, an air freshener assembly or an attachment plug that is mountable to the top end of a vehicle antenna. The attachment plug includes a warning device that alerts nearby animals of an approaching vehicle.

Abstract: A safety warning flag assembly for use with highway trucks provides for a foldable placard which is attachable to the front end of a highway truck. The placard, attached longitudinally along the front bumper is foldable along its longitudinal length. When closed, the placard essentially becomes part of the bumper. When opened, the placard displays a warning sign to oncoming traffic. With the placard in its open position, a flag receiving fixture attached to the placard allows a conically shaped flag and flag holder to be received within the fixture. In an alternative embodiment, the flag fixture is functionally adapted to receive the flag from various angles such that the flag can be flown at its most effective angle for warning traffic of the approaching wide load. In another alternative embodiment, the flag fixture may be attachable to other parts of the truck and may be used in conjunction with the warning placard.

Abstract: A warning device includes three components of an orange fluorescent material that carry reflectors of a red reflex reflective material. The components are pivotally connected to be operable to a compact folded condition. In an unfolded operative condition, an attachment structure secures a lower end portion of a first component to the upper edge of a vehicle window. The first component then extends outwardly at a sixty degree angle, a second component then extends horizontally outwardly from the lower end of the first component and the third component then extends inwardly and upwardly and at a sixty degree angle from the outer end of the second component to the upper end of the first component. The device then presents a triangularly shaped area having an outer border defined by the reflectors and an inner border defined by portions of the components. The attachment structure is sturdy and provides a reliable support of the device while being of a small size.

Abstract: A license plate bracket includes a pair of resilient hooks for hooking the bracket to the grille of a vehicle. The hooks, in part, replace conventional hardware such as screws and bolts which are incompatible with the thin plastic ribs found on modern vehicle front grilles. The entire bracket, including the hooks, can be formed as a one-piece plastic molding.

Abstract: A large advertising assembly that can be easily moved from one pickup truck to another. The assembly includes an advertising display and a bed frame member. The bed frame member fits snugly into the bed of a standard pickup truck and provides a platform on which the advertising display is removably mounted. The advertising display has an internal light source, removable translucent advertising panels and a portion that extends over the cab of the pickup truck to provide a large area for advertisement.

Abstract: A portable directional arrow that can be utilized to direct traffic at any time during the day or night. The directional arrow may be manually held or contains at least one attachment device to attach the directional arrow to a surface. At least one light source is attached to the arrow that is electrically connected to an adaptor that is designed to plug into a cigarette lighter for a motor vehicle. The directional arrow has two separable housings. The housings can be fastened and utilized as a single arrow with one side containing the light source for visibility at night and the other side containing a high-visibility color for visibility during the day. Further the two housings may be separated to be utilized as two completely different sets of directional arrows.

Abstract: A mobile advertising system for use in connection with a motor vehicle or other mechanized transport comprises a plurality of display panels mounted integrally to the sides and/or rear of the motor vehicle, the plurality of display panels being comprised of transparent material; and a light source for lighting the plurality of display panels from behind the display panels. The light source includes a plurality of fluorescent lightbulbs and a power source generator which generates electrical current to power the fluorescent lightbulbs.

Abstract: A display device to discourage or encourage the summoning of an emergency response includes a display support positionable near an emergency site. The display device has a display area having indicia to discourage the summoning of an emergency response. Additionally, the display area may have indicia to encourage the summoning of an emergency response. In a method of using the display device, a display is placed proximate an emergency site, a first indicia is displayed to encourage the summoning of an emergency response, notice is received that help has been summoned, and the first indicia is replaced with a second indicia that indicates further summoning of the emergency response is not necessary.

Abstract: A shield that can be attached to a trailer, such as a trailer that will tow a boat, and once in place the shield will protect the boat while in transit. In addition, the shield will have areas that can be used to place advertising medium thereon.

Abstract: An assembly has a base of elastomeric material and a frame for an emblem or ornament. A fastener portion of the frame fits with a stem portion of the base in fixed relation. The base is secured to a surface, such as a vehicle hood, by an adhesive, with no elements through the attachment surface being required. The base is elastic to yield to anticipated forces, such as due to wind, automatic car washes, and manual pulls or pushes, and to return to its intended position, without disturbing the adhesive bond. Base designs include having a stem at an angle to a normal to the base bottom or mounting surface; the amount of such angle being determined to make the emblem be presented in an upright or moderately canted back, position when the assembly is installed on any of a number of vehicles having a range of hood slopes; so that substantially all vehicles and hood slopes in use can be fitted with one of only a small number of base configurations.

Abstract: A lighted messaging system that is attachable to a vehicular trailer hitching assembly and can provide suitable protection for the open hitch after the ball is removed. This system utilizes all of the various components of a conventional trailer hitch after the ball joint element is removed therefrom and serves not only to provide an attractive and useful means of communication or advertisement and the like, but also to cover up exposed parts of the trailer hitch after the ball joint element is actually removed. Trailer hitches that use the so-called "draw-tight" system are preferred. Messages in the form of writing or drawings and can encompass any desired communication. Since the messaging system employs a light system, they can be illuminated for better visibility during all light conditions.

Abstract: A mobile display system comprises one or more vehicles, e.g. taxis, buses, tractor-trailers, etc., equipped with externally viewable display panels and an on-board controller. The controller determines the vehicle location and drives the display to generate a publicly viewable message selected for viewing within such location. The message is displayed pursuant to a schedule which includes date, time of day and display duration while the vehicle is within the zone or until the vehicle is located in another zone which is not included within the message schedule. A tiered system control network includes a plurality of fixed stations which transmit message content and scheduling data to the controller and which generate billing and other accounting records.

Abstract: Flexible and pliable magnetic panels with streamers for being attached to the sides of vehicles such as limousines and the like. The panels can be rectangular, bell shaped or pennant shaped, and include visible signage lettering such as the words "GOT MARRIED", "BAT MHIZVAH" and the like. Attached to front end portions of the panels are elongated thin plastic streamers, that are individually attached to the panels by nylon screws, washers and respective nuts. The panels and/or the streamers can be various colors such as red, white, blue, green, yellow, orange, brown, black, and combinations thereof.

Abstract: A transparent or opaque sheet is affixed onto the inner surface of a side door window glass of a vehicle for coloration, light blockage, decoration and the like. In the sheet-affixed window glass, the sheet is directly but detachably affixed onto the inner surface of the window glass via a front holder and a back holder.

Abstract: The motor vehicle identification device comprises a kit containing a display device to be attached to the motor vehicle antenna, and a plurality of self-adhesive markers, preferably of different shapes and colors for attachment to the display device in a color combination and pattern of the user's choice. The user thus provides an individualized vehicle identification marker to distinguish that vehicle from others using similar identification devices.

Abstract: A decoration article for use on automobiles is made up of a decoration top cap, a round disc and a double-sided adhesive piece. The round disc conforming identically to the structure of the double-sided adhesive piece has a central engaging protrusion for the passage of a screw and a square hole adjacent the central protrusion for water to be discharged therethrough when mounted to a water discharge spout of a windshield system. The decoration top cap is provided with a recess on the peripheral wall thereof so as to permit water to be discharged via the recess. The double-sided adhesive piece enables the decoration piece to be attached to the engine hood or trunk lid of a vehicle and the screw or bolt permits the decoration article to be firmly fixed to an outer lid of a wheel for ornament purpose.

Abstract: A tail flag assembly for installation on a rear end of an utility pole laid on a pole trailer. The tail flag assembly comprises a ring mountable over the rear end of the pole and a plurality of screws extending radially through the ring for clamping the ring onto the rear end of the pole. The tail flag assembly also comprises a plurality of staffs affixed to the ring and extending outwardly tangentially from the ring, with each staff having a rectangular brightly coloured flag affixed thereto. In one aspect of the invention, each flag has a stripe sewn thereon. The stripe is made of a highly light-reflecting material. The stripe is sewn on a first side of the flag from an upper outside corner thereof to a midpoint on the hem thereof, and on the other side of the flag, from a midpoint on the hem to the lower outside corner thereof. When the flag flaps back and forth, the movement of the stripe simulates a flashing light bar when seen at night under the reflection of the headlights of a vehicle for example.

Abstract: A trailer hitch accessory with a lighted sign, auxiliary brake lights, and a protective cover for a trailer hitch. A rectangular enclosure equipped with lights is fastened to a trailer hitch by a trailer hitch connection. The trailer hitch connection encloses and protects the trailer hitch from damage from the elements. The rectangular enclosure has lights contained therein, which are connected to the trailer hitch electrical connection by an electrical connector. A removable translucent sign may be placed within the enclosure to be backlit by one or more lights within the enclosure. When the operator of a vehicle activates his headlights, then lights within the enclosure come on lighting the sign for viewing at night. When the operator of the vehicle applies his brakes, it lights not only the brake lights on the vehicle, but also the auxiliary brake light panels on the enclosure.

Abstract: A vehicle window-mounted advertising sign for secure attachment of the advertising sign solely to the window and not requiring interface or support from the vehicle window frame. An upper window attachment includes an inner window surface mount arm which extends over the vehicle window and terminates in an inner window surface interface, combined with an outer window surface arm terminating in an outer surface interface, which when mounted on the vehicle window, impart both an inward and an outward force on the respective window surfaces, thereby securing the advertising sign to the window. Further in combination therewith is an angular adjustment feature which allows the angle of the advertising sign relative to the vehicle to be easily adjusted in an articulating manner to maintain optimum visibility and angle of the advertising sign.

Abstract: A toll pass holder (10) comprising a housing (12) having an open top compartment (14) with a large open from window (16), so as to receive an electronic toll pass (18) inserted therein. A structure (20) is for temporarily retaining the housing (12) to an interior surface (22) of a windshield (24) in a motor vehicle (26). The large open front window (16) in the housing (12) faces the interior surface (22) of the windshield (24), so that the electronic toll pass (18) can operate therefrom.

Abstract: Each element in an array of display elements has first and second limiting positions and in respective limiting positions selectively displays a bright and a dark surface in a viewing direction. A transparent sheet is intermediate the array and the viewer. Conductors on said sheet direct light toward said array.

Abstract: A decorative attachment for a wiper device of a vehicle. The wiper device is operably installed with respect to a vehicle rear window for pivotally moving a wiper blade operably connected to and forming a part of the wiper device back and forth in cleaning engagement with the rear window. The decorative wiper attachment includes an elongated, preferably flat display member having viewable indicia printed on one surface thereof and preferably having an edge profile which suggestively enhances a particular viewable impression in conjunction with the printed viewable indicia such as that of a logo or emblem of a college or professional athletic team. Releasable attachments extending from the opposite surface of the display member provide secure releasable attachment with respect to the wiper device around the wiper arm and the wiper blade whereby the decorative attachment remains substantially stationary to the wiper device while the vehicle is under way with the wiper device either stationary or in operation.

Abstract: A car locator is provided having a base for attaching the locator to a car. A cantilevered support rod is pivotally connected with the base to permit pivotal movement and positioning of the rod relative to the base. A hollow marking sleeve having an outer transparent tube and an inner fluorescent liner disposed within the tube slidably mounts onto the support rod for marking the car. The sleeve engages the support rod with sufficient contact force to retain the sleeve in position on the support rod. The sleeve is slidably removable from the support rod so that the sleeve may be pulled from the support rod.

Abstract: A mobile multi-message billboard advertising system (10) comprising a truck (12) having a wheel-supported cab (14) and chassis (16). A superstructure (18) is mounted onto the chassis (16) of the truck (12). A plurality of tri-visional action display units visional action display units (20) are affixed to the superstructure (18). A facility (22) on the superstructure (18) is for illuminating the tri-visional action display units (20), so that advertisements (24) can be seen thereon.

Abstract: A temporary automobile marker is provided with a hollow base cone and a tower cone attached to the top of the base cone. The tower cone is co-centric with the base cone but has a smaller diameter in order to form two surfaces that help reflect light in a discontinuous fashion in order to make the marker more visible. A magnet is encased within the hollow base cone. The bottom edge of the base cone is covered with a pad so that the base cone and the encased magnet will not harm the surface of the vehicle to which the marker is attached. A method for employing the marker is also provided.

Abstract: A panel which comprises a substrate of transparent or translucent material having applied to one or both sides a design superimposed on, or forming part of, an opaque pattern so that the design on one side of the panel cannot be seen from the other side. This is a Reissue of a Patent which was the subject of a Reexamination Certificate No. B1 4,673,609, dated Jul. 25, 1995, Request No. 90/003,201, Sep. 21, 1993.