Safety directional indicator

US8648735B2 · kind B2 · utility

Inventors

• Paul Haynes · Chesterfield, US
• Eric Collins · Superior, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Apr 6, 2012
• Grant date: Feb 11, 2014
• Expiry date: Apr 6, 2032

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10T24/45529
• WIPO field: Control
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

Provided is a safety directional indicator to improve highway safety. Embodiments of the invention include devices for guiding a driver of a vehicle in a desired direction, typically away from highway workers, pedestrians, curbs, and opposing lanes of traffic. Specifically included is a safety directional indicator system comprising a flexible belt with a plurality of light transmitting bars disposed along the belt and having a plurality of LEDs disposed at one elongated end of each light transmitting bar and in operable communication with a control system for illuminating the LEDs in a manner to indicate a direction for traffic. Safety devices according to the invention can be stand-alone devices, devices capable of being attached to objects or structures at a highway scene, or configured to be worn on a person's body. An object of the safety devices according to embodiments of the invention is to increase driver awareness of highway situations especially during conditions of restricted visibility.