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WO2010112806A1 - Vehicle emergency warning apparatus - Google Patents

Vehicle emergency warning apparatus Download PDF

Info

Publication number
WO2010112806A1
WO2010112806A1 PCT/GB2010/000449 GB2010000449W WO2010112806A1 WO 2010112806 A1 WO2010112806 A1 WO 2010112806A1 GB 2010000449 W GB2010000449 W GB 2010000449W WO 2010112806 A1 WO2010112806 A1 WO 2010112806A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
vehicle
emergency warning
vehicle emergency
light
warning apparatus
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/GB2010/000449
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Gary Lloyd Lewis
Original Assignee
Gary Lloyd Lewis
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Gary Lloyd Lewis filed Critical Gary Lloyd Lewis
Publication of WO2010112806A1 publication Critical patent/WO2010112806A1/en

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Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/26—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic
    • B60Q1/50—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating other intentions or conditions, e.g. request for waiting or overtaking
    • B60Q1/52—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic for indicating other intentions or conditions, e.g. request for waiting or overtaking for indicating emergencies
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/26—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic
    • B60Q1/2611—Indicating devices mounted on the roof of the vehicle
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/26—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic
    • B60Q1/2615—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic mounted on the vehicle body, e.g. with magnets
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q—ARRANGEMENT OF SIGNALLING OR LIGHTING DEVICES, THE MOUNTING OR SUPPORTING THEREOF OR CIRCUITS THEREFOR, FOR VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60Q1/00—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor
    • B60Q1/26—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic
    • B60Q1/2657—Arrangement of optical signalling or lighting devices, the mounting or supporting thereof or circuits therefor the devices being primarily intended to indicate the vehicle, or parts thereof, or to give signals, to other traffic mounted on a shaft, e.g. telescopic

Definitions

  • This invention relates to vehicle emergency warning apparatus and, more especially, this invention relates to vehicle emergency warning apparatus for alerting traffic of a disabled vehicle.
  • the known vehicle emergency warning apparatus may be hazard lights on the vehicle, a reflective warning triangle, or an electrically-operated sign indicating a breakdown.
  • the known vehicle emergency warning apparatus is often not satisfactory.
  • vehicle emergency warning apparatus in the form of the vehicles hazard lights
  • a problem arises in that the vehicle hazard lights are often used by drivers for situations other than emergencies, for example, common courtesies, loading, unloading, and being stationary whilst map reading or answering mobile telephones.
  • Motorists seeing a vehicle with its hazard warning lights flashing have no way of knowing whether or not the vehicle is in an emergency situation, and the passing motorises will invariably drive past.
  • vehicle emergency warning apparatus in the form of a reflective warning triangle
  • the reflective warning triangle is often not seen in time, especially in poor visibility.
  • vehicle emergency warning apparatus in the form of an electrically-operated sign which indicates the emergency the sign may not give good illumination of the emergency area and/or the sign may be difficult to position. It is an aim of the present invention to reduce the above mentioned problems.
  • vehicle emergency warning apparatus for alerting traffic of a disabled vehicle, which apparatus comprises securing means for securing the apparatus to the vehicle, illumination means for illuminating the vehicle so that the vehicle is able to seen by passing traffic, support means for supporting the illumination means, and switch means for switching the apparatus on and off, and the apparatus being such that:
  • the securing means is an electromagnetic securing means which operates only when the apparatus is switched on, thereby to enable the apparatus easily to be mounted on and removed from an elevated part of the vehicle;
  • the support means is a collapsible support means having an extended position in which the illumination means is mounted in use sufficiently high for the vehicle to be clearly illuminated by the illumination means, and a collapsed position in which the support means is collapsed and the apparatus is of a smaller size for facilitating storage of the apparatus when the apparatus is not in use.
  • the apparatus of the present invention is advantageous in a number of respects.
  • the electromagnetic securing means enables the apparatus securely to be mounted in position. Because the electromagnetic securing means only operates when the apparatus is switched on, the apparatus can be easily located in position before being switched on and there is no problem as would occur with a permanent magnet where the permanent magnet might tend to cause the apparatus to grip to a part of the vehicle other than the required part.
  • the magnetism afforded by the electromagnetic securing means will stop and the apparatus can then easily be removed.
  • removal could also be difficult, especially if the apparatus were to be on a roof of a vehicle and difficult to reach.
  • the easy mounting on and removal from the vehicle of the present invention is especially advantageous when the apparatus is to be placed on a vehicle roof, which is the highest point of the vehicle for good illumination purposes, but at the same time the most inaccessible.
  • the apparatus of the present invention is secondly advantageous in that the support means is a collapsible support means.
  • the support means is thus able to be extended to provide an extended position in which the illumination means is mounted sufficiently high above the vehicle for the vehicle clearly to be illuminated by the illumination means.
  • the support means may act like a mast.
  • the support means In the collapsed position, the support means is collapsed and the apparatus is able to be of a smaller size for facilitating storage of the apparatus when the apparatus is not in use.
  • the apparatus will usually be stored in the boot of a vehicle such for example as the boot of a car. In the boot of a vehicle, space is usually at a premium and the small collapsed size of the apparatus of the present invention does not take up too much space.
  • the apparatus of the present invention is thirdly advantageous in that it may be extremely helpful in reducing accidents. At least 250 people in the United Kingdom are injured every year on hard shoulders of roads and/or motorways after a breakdown. As many as 12% of all fatal accidents on UK motorways happen on hard shoulders, with the majority of these fatal accidents occurring over hours of darkness. The apparatus of the present invention is able to give good illumination in the hours of darkness.
  • the apparatus is one in which the support means is a telescopic collapsible support means which telescopes between the extended and collapsed positions.
  • the support means may be a foldable collapsible support means which folds between the extended and collapsed positions. Other ways of collapsing the support means between the extended and collapsed positions may be employed.
  • the apparatus is one in which the illumination means is protected from knocks when the support means is in the collapsed position.
  • the apparatus may include a housing, and the apparatus may then be one in which the securing means secures the housing to the vehicle, and in which the support means extends from and collapses into the housing.
  • the apparatus may be one in which the illumination means is located in the housing in the collapsed position of the support means, whereby the illumination means is protected from being damaged when the apparatus is being stored when it is not in use.
  • the apparatus of the present invention may often slide around or be subject to knocks from other articles sliding in the boot during travelling of the vehicle.
  • the housing is a frusto-conical housing.
  • Other shapes for the housing may however be employed so that, for example, the housing may be of a pyramid shape or a parallel sided shape.
  • the housing will have a base which is sufficiently wide to enable the apparatus stably to be mounted on the vehicle, for example on the roof or any other desired and appropriate place of the vehicle.
  • the apparatus is one in which the illumination means is constructed to project light downwardly so that the light is concentrated where it is required. With such downwardly projected light, there is no wastage of light in an upwards direction. There is also no horizontally directed light which might interfere with the vision of drivers of passing vehicles.
  • the illumination means may project the light downwardly in a cone.
  • the illumination means may project the light downwardly in any other suitable and appropriate configuration.
  • the illumination means comprises a plurality of light emitting diodes.
  • Preferred light emitting diodes are ultra bright light emitting diodes.
  • Other type of illumination means may be employed so that, for example, the illumination means may be a fluorescent tube, or bulbs.
  • the illumination means is fitted to the underside of a protective cap. The protective cap may close off the housing, when a housing is employed and the support means is in the collapsed position.
  • the illumination means may provide continuous light and/or flashing light.
  • a switch may be employed for enabling the illumination means to provide either continuous light or flashing light.
  • the illumination means may provide light of two colours to increase noticeability in an emergency situation.
  • the illumination means may thus, for example, be able to provide red light and bright white light. Other colours may be employed if desired.
  • the switch means is a sliding switch means.
  • a sliding switch means is unlikely to come on accidentally during storage of the apparatus.
  • Other types of switch means may be employed so that, for example, the switch means may be a push button switch or a lever switch.
  • the apparatus may include a lead for enabling the apparatus to be powered from a battery of the vehicle.
  • the lead will usually include a plug for enabling the lead to plug into a cigarette lighter socket in the vehicle.
  • the apparatus includes terminal means for receiving at least one back-up battery, whereby the apparatus is able to operate if the vehicle battery should not be working.
  • the back-up battery or batteries may be any suitable and appropriate dry batteries, for example 9 volt lithium batteries.
  • the apparatus may include a base mat for making contact with the vehicle and ensuring that the apparatus does not mark the vehicle.
  • the base mat may be a rubber base mat.
  • the base mat may be made of other materials if desired so that, for example, the base mat may be made of a soft plastics material.
  • the apparatus may include at least one light reflector for reflecting light from passing traffic, and thereby increasing the noticeability of the apparatus.
  • the light reflector may be positioned on the support means.
  • the light reflector may be positioned elsewhere on the apparatus.
  • the light reflector is preferably in the form of a light reflecting strip.
  • the light reflector may alternatively be pads or devices of other shapes than strips.
  • the apparatus may include apertures for allowing wind to pass through the apparatus and thereby reduce the wind resistance of the apparatus and ensure that the apparatus stays securely mounted in position in use.
  • the apertures may be advantageous where the disabled vehicle is being continuously passed by large vehicles such for example as lorries and coaches as may occur if the vehicle has broken down on the hard shoulder of a motorway.
  • Figure 1 is a perspective view of the apparatus in use
  • Figure 2 is a perspective view of the apparatus in an extended position
  • Figure 3 is a perspective view of the apparatus in a collapsed position
  • Figure 4 is an exploded view of the apparatus turned upside down and shows internal working parts of the apparatus
  • Figure 5 is a perspective view of terminal means and back-up batteries forming part of the apparatus as shown in Figure 4;
  • Figures 6 and 7 show in detail illumination means forming part of the apparatus.
  • Figure 8 shows light reflectors in the form of light reflecting strips forming part of the apparatus.
  • vehicle emergency warning apparatus 2 for alerting traffic of a disabled vehicle 4.
  • the apparatus 2 comprises securing means 6 for securing the apparatus 2 to the vehicle 4.
  • the apparatus 2 also comprises illumination means 8 for illuminating the vehicle 4 so that the vehicle 4 is able to be seen by passing traffic.
  • the apparatus 2 further comprises support means 10 for supporting the illumination means 8, and switch means 12 for switching the apparatus 2 on and off.
  • the apparatus 2 is such that the securing means 6 is an electromagnetic securing means 6 which operates only when the apparatus 2 is switched on. This thereby enables the apparatus 2 easily to be mounted on and removed from an elevated part of the vehicle 4, such for example as the vehicle roof 14 as shown in Figure 1.
  • the apparatus 2 is also such that the support means 10 is a collapsible support means 10 having an extended position which is shown in Figures 1 and 2 and a collapsed position which is shown in Figure 3.
  • the illumination means 8 is mounted in use sufficiently high for the vehicle 4 to be clearly illuminated by the illumination means 8.
  • This clear illumination is shown as a cone of light 16 in Figure 1.
  • the support means 10 is collapsed, and the apparatus is of a smaller size as can be appreciated from comparing Figures 2 and 3.
  • the collapsed position facilitates the storage of the apparatus 2 when the apparatus 2 is not in use.
  • the apparatus 2 in the collapsed position can easily be stored in a boot 18 of the vehicle 4, whereas in the extended position, the apparatus 2 might not be able to fit into the boot 18 or, alternatively, the apparatus 2 would occupy too much space and/or might get bent due to pressure from other objects in the boot 18.
  • the support means 10 is a telescopic collapsible support means 10 which telescopes between the extended and collapsed positions.
  • the support means 10 has three telescoping parts 20, 22, 24.
  • the apparatus 2 includes a housing 26.
  • the securing means 6 secures the housing 26 to the roof 14 of the vehicle 4.
  • the support means 10 extends from and collapses into the housing 26.
  • the illumination means 8 is located in the housing 26 in the collapsed position of the support means 10. This enables the illumination means 8 to be protected from being damaged when the apparatus 2 is being stored when it is not in use.
  • the housing 26 is a frusto- conical housing 26.
  • the illumination means 8 is constructed to project light downwardly so that the light is concentrated where it is required.
  • the downwardly projected light is in the form of the cone of light 16. Light is thus not wasted in being projected upwardly. Light is also not directed horizontally, from where it might interfere with the vision of drivers of passing vehicles.
  • the illumination means 8 comprises a plurality of light emitting diodes.
  • the light emitting diodes are ultra bright light emitting diodes.
  • the illumination means 8 is fitted to the underside 28 of a protective cap 30. As shown in Figure 3, the protective cap 30 closes the top of the housing 26 in the collapsed position of the support means 10.
  • the illumination means 8 is able to provide continuous light and flashing light.
  • the illumination means 8 is also able to provide light of two colours to increase the noticeability of the apparatus 2 in an emergency situation.
  • the two colours are red and bright white light.
  • the apparatus 2 may be arranged to flash from red to bright white light to provide more emphasis to alert passing traffic.
  • the apparatus may simply emit bright white light in order to give a person 32 the required light to change a wheel 34 having a puncture.
  • a switch (not shown) may enable the illumination means 8 to operate between various modes.
  • the switch means 12 is a sliding switch means 12. The upper position of the sliding switch means 12 is the on position, and the lower position of the sliding switch means 12 is the off position. The reverse arrangement may be employed.
  • the apparatus 2 includes a lead 36 for enabling the apparatus to be powered from a battery of the vehicle.
  • the lead 36 has a plug 38 which plugs into a cigarette lighter socket (not shown) in the vehicle 4.
  • the apparatus 2 includes terminal means 40 for receiving two back-up batteries 44.
  • the back-up batteries 44 enable the apparatus 2 to operate if the vehicle battery (not shown) should not be working.
  • Figure 4 also shows how the securing means 6 comprises an electromagnetic 46 held in a container 48 which is screwed to a support plate 50.
  • the support plate 50 has an aperture 52 for the lead 36.
  • the lead 36 is located in the aperture 52 by a rubber grommet 54.
  • a base mat 56 makes contact with the roof 14 of the vehicle 4 and ensures that that apparatus 2 does not mark the roof 14.
  • the base mat 56 is made of a rubber material.
  • the apparatus 2 includes light reflectors in the form of three light reflecting strips 58, 60, 62.
  • the light reflecting strips 58, 60, 62 reflect light from passing traffic, and thereby increase the noticeability of the apparatus 2.
  • the light reflecting strips 60, 62 are positioned on the support means 10, and the light reflecting strip 58 is positioned on the protective cap 30.
  • the apparatus 2 is such that it can easily be used.
  • the apparatus 2 can easily be located in position on the vehicle roof 14 before switching on the securing means 6. In this way, there will be no problems with magnetism attracting the apparatus 2 to some unwanted place on the vehicle roof 14.
  • the apparatus 2 is easily removed from the roof 14, simply by first turning off the securing means 6.
  • the cone of light 16 In the extended position of the support means 10, the cone of light 16 is provided, and this cone of light 16 enables the vehicle 4 easily to be seen by passing traffic. The cone of light 16 also enables the person 32 to change the wheel 34 in good visibility.
  • the support means 10 When not in use, the support means 10 is easily collapsed to the storage position shown in Figure 2. The apparatus 2 is then easily stored in the boot 18 of the vehicle 4, where it will not take up too much room, and where the illumination means 8 will also be protected inside the housing 26.
  • the support means 10 could be a folding support means 10 rather than the illustrated telescopic support means 10.
  • the housing 26 may be of another shape.
  • Other types of illumination means 8 and switch means 12 may be employed.
  • the apparatus may include apertures (not shown) for allowing wind to pass through the apparatus 2 and thereby reduce the wind resistance of the apparatus 2 and ensure that the apparatus 2 stays securely mounted in position in use.
  • the apparatus 2 may have electrical control circuitry on a printed circuit board 64 or on other devices. Individual components shown in the drawings are not limited to use in their drawings and they may be used in other drawings and in all aspects of the invention.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Non-Portable Lighting Devices Or Systems Thereof (AREA)

Abstract

Vehicle emergency warning apparatus (2) for alerting traffic of a disabled vehicle (4), which apparatus (2) comprises securing means (6) for securing the apparatus (2) to the vehicle (4), illumination means (8) for illuminating the vehicle (4) so that the vehicle (4) is able to seen by passing traffic, support means (10) for supporting the illumination means (8), and switch means (12) for switching the apparatus (2) on and off, and the apparatus (2) being such that: (i) the securing means (6) is an electromagnetic securing means (6) which operates only when the apparatus (2) is switched on, thereby to enable the apparatus (2) easily to be mounted on and removed from an elevated part of the vehicle (4); and (ii) the support means (10) is a collapsible support means (10) having an extended position in which the illumination means (8) is mounted in use sufficiently high for the vehicle (4) to be clearly illuminated by the illumination means (8), and a collapsed position in which the support means (10) is collapsed and the apparatus (2) is of a smaller size for facilitating storage of the apparatus (2) when the apparatus (2) is not in use.

Description

VEHICLE EMERGENCY WARNING APPARATUS
This invention relates to vehicle emergency warning apparatus and, more especially, this invention relates to vehicle emergency warning apparatus for alerting traffic of a disabled vehicle.
There are many known different types of vehicle emergency warning apparatus. The known vehicle emergency warning apparatus may be hazard lights on the vehicle, a reflective warning triangle, or an electrically-operated sign indicating a breakdown. The known vehicle emergency warning apparatus is often not satisfactory. Thus, for example with vehicle emergency warning apparatus in the form of the vehicles hazard lights, a problem arises in that the vehicle hazard lights are often used by drivers for situations other than emergencies, for example, common courtesies, loading, unloading, and being stationary whilst map reading or answering mobile telephones. Motorists seeing a vehicle with its hazard warning lights flashing have no way of knowing whether or not the vehicle is in an emergency situation, and the passing motorises will invariably drive past. With vehicle emergency warning apparatus in the form of a reflective warning triangle, the reflective warning triangle is often not seen in time, especially in poor visibility. With vehicle emergency warning apparatus in the form of an electrically-operated sign which indicates the emergency, the sign may not give good illumination of the emergency area and/or the sign may be difficult to position. It is an aim of the present invention to reduce the above mentioned problems.
Accordingly, in one non-limiting embodiment of the present invention there is provided vehicle emergency warning apparatus for alerting traffic of a disabled vehicle, which apparatus comprises securing means for securing the apparatus to the vehicle, illumination means for illuminating the vehicle so that the vehicle is able to seen by passing traffic, support means for supporting the illumination means, and switch means for switching the apparatus on and off, and the apparatus being such that:
(i) the securing means is an electromagnetic securing means which operates only when the apparatus is switched on, thereby to enable the apparatus easily to be mounted on and removed from an elevated part of the vehicle; and
(ii) the support means is a collapsible support means having an extended position in which the illumination means is mounted in use sufficiently high for the vehicle to be clearly illuminated by the illumination means, and a collapsed position in which the support means is collapsed and the apparatus is of a smaller size for facilitating storage of the apparatus when the apparatus is not in use.
The apparatus of the present invention is advantageous in a number of respects. Firstly, the electromagnetic securing means enables the apparatus securely to be mounted in position. Because the electromagnetic securing means only operates when the apparatus is switched on, the apparatus can be easily located in position before being switched on and there is no problem as would occur with a permanent magnet where the permanent magnet might tend to cause the apparatus to grip to a part of the vehicle other than the required part. Similarly, when it is desired to remove the apparatus, it is only necessary to switch the apparatus off, and the magnetism afforded by the electromagnetic securing means will stop and the apparatus can then easily be removed. With a permanent magnet, removal could also be difficult, especially if the apparatus were to be on a roof of a vehicle and difficult to reach. Thus, the easy mounting on and removal from the vehicle of the present invention is especially advantageous when the apparatus is to be placed on a vehicle roof, which is the highest point of the vehicle for good illumination purposes, but at the same time the most inaccessible.
The apparatus of the present invention is secondly advantageous in that the support means is a collapsible support means. The support means is thus able to be extended to provide an extended position in which the illumination means is mounted sufficiently high above the vehicle for the vehicle clearly to be illuminated by the illumination means. In the extended position, the support means may act like a mast. In the collapsed position, the support means is collapsed and the apparatus is able to be of a smaller size for facilitating storage of the apparatus when the apparatus is not in use. The apparatus will usually be stored in the boot of a vehicle such for example as the boot of a car. In the boot of a vehicle, space is usually at a premium and the small collapsed size of the apparatus of the present invention does not take up too much space.
The apparatus of the present invention is thirdly advantageous in that it may be extremely helpful in reducing accidents. At least 250 people in the United Kingdom are injured every year on hard shoulders of roads and/or motorways after a breakdown. As many as 12% of all fatal accidents on UK motorways happen on hard shoulders, with the majority of these fatal accidents occurring over hours of darkness. The apparatus of the present invention is able to give good illumination in the hours of darkness.
Preferably, the apparatus is one in which the support means is a telescopic collapsible support means which telescopes between the extended and collapsed positions. Alternatively, if desired, the support means may be a foldable collapsible support means which folds between the extended and collapsed positions. Other ways of collapsing the support means between the extended and collapsed positions may be employed.
Advantageously, the apparatus is one in which the illumination means is protected from knocks when the support means is in the collapsed position.
The apparatus may include a housing, and the apparatus may then be one in which the securing means secures the housing to the vehicle, and in which the support means extends from and collapses into the housing. In this case, the apparatus may be one in which the illumination means is located in the housing in the collapsed position of the support means, whereby the illumination means is protected from being damaged when the apparatus is being stored when it is not in use. For example, if the apparatus of the present invention is being stored in the boot of a vehicle, the apparatus may often slide around or be subject to knocks from other articles sliding in the boot during travelling of the vehicle.
Preferably, the housing is a frusto-conical housing. Other shapes for the housing may however be employed so that, for example, the housing may be of a pyramid shape or a parallel sided shape. Generally, the housing will have a base which is sufficiently wide to enable the apparatus stably to be mounted on the vehicle, for example on the roof or any other desired and appropriate place of the vehicle.
Preferably, the apparatus is one in which the illumination means is constructed to project light downwardly so that the light is concentrated where it is required. With such downwardly projected light, there is no wastage of light in an upwards direction. There is also no horizontally directed light which might interfere with the vision of drivers of passing vehicles.
The illumination means may project the light downwardly in a cone. Alternatively, the illumination means may project the light downwardly in any other suitable and appropriate configuration.
Preferably, the illumination means comprises a plurality of light emitting diodes. Preferred light emitting diodes are ultra bright light emitting diodes. Other type of illumination means may be employed so that, for example, the illumination means may be a fluorescent tube, or bulbs. Preferably, the illumination means is fitted to the underside of a protective cap. The protective cap may close off the housing, when a housing is employed and the support means is in the collapsed position.
The illumination means may provide continuous light and/or flashing light. A switch may be employed for enabling the illumination means to provide either continuous light or flashing light.
If desired the illumination means may provide light of two colours to increase noticeability in an emergency situation. The illumination means may thus, for example, be able to provide red light and bright white light. Other colours may be employed if desired.
Preferably, the switch means is a sliding switch means. A sliding switch means is unlikely to come on accidentally during storage of the apparatus. Other types of switch means may be employed so that, for example, the switch means may be a push button switch or a lever switch.
The apparatus may include a lead for enabling the apparatus to be powered from a battery of the vehicle. In this case, the lead will usually include a plug for enabling the lead to plug into a cigarette lighter socket in the vehicle.
Preferably, the apparatus includes terminal means for receiving at least one back-up battery, whereby the apparatus is able to operate if the vehicle battery should not be working. The back-up battery or batteries may be any suitable and appropriate dry batteries, for example 9 volt lithium batteries. The apparatus may include a base mat for making contact with the vehicle and ensuring that the apparatus does not mark the vehicle. The base mat may be a rubber base mat. The base mat may be made of other materials if desired so that, for example, the base mat may be made of a soft plastics material.
The apparatus may include at least one light reflector for reflecting light from passing traffic, and thereby increasing the noticeability of the apparatus.
The light reflector may be positioned on the support means. The light reflector may be positioned elsewhere on the apparatus. The light reflector is preferably in the form of a light reflecting strip. The light reflector may alternatively be pads or devices of other shapes than strips.
The apparatus may include apertures for allowing wind to pass through the apparatus and thereby reduce the wind resistance of the apparatus and ensure that the apparatus stays securely mounted in position in use. The apertures may be advantageous where the disabled vehicle is being continuously passed by large vehicles such for example as lorries and coaches as may occur if the vehicle has broken down on the hard shoulder of a motorway.
An embodiment of the invention will now be described solely by way of example and with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:
Figure 1 is a perspective view of the apparatus in use;
Figure 2 is a perspective view of the apparatus in an extended position; Figure 3 is a perspective view of the apparatus in a collapsed position;
Figure 4 is an exploded view of the apparatus turned upside down and shows internal working parts of the apparatus;
Figure 5 is a perspective view of terminal means and back-up batteries forming part of the apparatus as shown in Figure 4;
Figures 6 and 7 show in detail illumination means forming part of the apparatus; and
Figure 8 shows light reflectors in the form of light reflecting strips forming part of the apparatus.
Referring to the drawings, there is shown vehicle emergency warning apparatus 2 for alerting traffic of a disabled vehicle 4. The apparatus 2 comprises securing means 6 for securing the apparatus 2 to the vehicle 4. The apparatus 2 also comprises illumination means 8 for illuminating the vehicle 4 so that the vehicle 4 is able to be seen by passing traffic. The apparatus 2 further comprises support means 10 for supporting the illumination means 8, and switch means 12 for switching the apparatus 2 on and off.
The apparatus 2 is such that the securing means 6 is an electromagnetic securing means 6 which operates only when the apparatus 2 is switched on. This thereby enables the apparatus 2 easily to be mounted on and removed from an elevated part of the vehicle 4, such for example as the vehicle roof 14 as shown in Figure 1.
The apparatus 2 is also such that the support means 10 is a collapsible support means 10 having an extended position which is shown in Figures 1 and 2 and a collapsed position which is shown in Figure 3. In the extended position, the illumination means 8 is mounted in use sufficiently high for the vehicle 4 to be clearly illuminated by the illumination means 8. This clear illumination is shown as a cone of light 16 in Figure 1. In the collapsed position, the support means 10 is collapsed, and the apparatus is of a smaller size as can be appreciated from comparing Figures 2 and 3. The collapsed position facilitates the storage of the apparatus 2 when the apparatus 2 is not in use. Thus, for example, the apparatus 2 in the collapsed position can easily be stored in a boot 18 of the vehicle 4, whereas in the extended position, the apparatus 2 might not be able to fit into the boot 18 or, alternatively, the apparatus 2 would occupy too much space and/or might get bent due to pressure from other objects in the boot 18.
As can best be appreciated from Figure 2, the support means 10 is a telescopic collapsible support means 10 which telescopes between the extended and collapsed positions. The support means 10 has three telescoping parts 20, 22, 24.
The apparatus 2 includes a housing 26. The securing means 6 secures the housing 26 to the roof 14 of the vehicle 4. The support means 10 extends from and collapses into the housing 26. As can be appreciated from a comparison of Figures 2 and 3, the illumination means 8 is located in the housing 26 in the collapsed position of the support means 10. This enables the illumination means 8 to be protected from being damaged when the apparatus 2 is being stored when it is not in use. The housing 26 is a frusto- conical housing 26. As can best be appreciated from Figure 1 , the illumination means 8 is constructed to project light downwardly so that the light is concentrated where it is required. The downwardly projected light is in the form of the cone of light 16. Light is thus not wasted in being projected upwardly. Light is also not directed horizontally, from where it might interfere with the vision of drivers of passing vehicles.
As can best be seen from Figures 4, 6 and 7 the illumination means 8 comprises a plurality of light emitting diodes. The light emitting diodes are ultra bright light emitting diodes. The illumination means 8 is fitted to the underside 28 of a protective cap 30. As shown in Figure 3, the protective cap 30 closes the top of the housing 26 in the collapsed position of the support means 10.
As illustrated in Figures 6 and 7, the illumination means 8 is able to provide continuous light and flashing light. The illumination means 8 is also able to provide light of two colours to increase the noticeability of the apparatus 2 in an emergency situation. The two colours are red and bright white light. The apparatus 2 may be arranged to flash from red to bright white light to provide more emphasis to alert passing traffic. Alternatively, if it is desired simply to change a wheel due to a puncture as indicated in Figure 1 , then the apparatus may simply emit bright white light in order to give a person 32 the required light to change a wheel 34 having a puncture. A switch (not shown) may enable the illumination means 8 to operate between various modes. The switch means 12 is a sliding switch means 12. The upper position of the sliding switch means 12 is the on position, and the lower position of the sliding switch means 12 is the off position. The reverse arrangement may be employed.
The apparatus 2 includes a lead 36 for enabling the apparatus to be powered from a battery of the vehicle. The lead 36 has a plug 38 which plugs into a cigarette lighter socket (not shown) in the vehicle 4.
As shown in Figures 4 and 5, the apparatus 2 includes terminal means 40 for receiving two back-up batteries 44. The back-up batteries 44 enable the apparatus 2 to operate if the vehicle battery (not shown) should not be working.
Figure 4 also shows how the securing means 6 comprises an electromagnetic 46 held in a container 48 which is screwed to a support plate 50. The support plate 50 has an aperture 52 for the lead 36. The lead 36 is located in the aperture 52 by a rubber grommet 54.
A base mat 56 makes contact with the roof 14 of the vehicle 4 and ensures that that apparatus 2 does not mark the roof 14. The base mat 56 is made of a rubber material.
As best shown in Figures 2 and 3, the apparatus 2 includes light reflectors in the form of three light reflecting strips 58, 60, 62. The light reflecting strips 58, 60, 62 reflect light from passing traffic, and thereby increase the noticeability of the apparatus 2. The light reflecting strips 60, 62 are positioned on the support means 10, and the light reflecting strip 58 is positioned on the protective cap 30. The apparatus 2 is such that it can easily be used. The apparatus 2 can easily be located in position on the vehicle roof 14 before switching on the securing means 6. In this way, there will be no problems with magnetism attracting the apparatus 2 to some unwanted place on the vehicle roof 14. The apparatus 2 is easily removed from the roof 14, simply by first turning off the securing means 6. In the extended position of the support means 10, the cone of light 16 is provided, and this cone of light 16 enables the vehicle 4 easily to be seen by passing traffic. The cone of light 16 also enables the person 32 to change the wheel 34 in good visibility. When not in use, the support means 10 is easily collapsed to the storage position shown in Figure 2. The apparatus 2 is then easily stored in the boot 18 of the vehicle 4, where it will not take up too much room, and where the illumination means 8 will also be protected inside the housing 26.
It is to be appreciated that the embodiment of the invention described above with reference to the accompanying drawings has been given by way of example only and that modifications may be effected. Thus, for example, the support means 10 could be a folding support means 10 rather than the illustrated telescopic support means 10. The housing 26 may be of another shape. Other types of illumination means 8 and switch means 12 may be employed. The apparatus may include apertures (not shown) for allowing wind to pass through the apparatus 2 and thereby reduce the wind resistance of the apparatus 2 and ensure that the apparatus 2 stays securely mounted in position in use. The apparatus 2 may have electrical control circuitry on a printed circuit board 64 or on other devices. Individual components shown in the drawings are not limited to use in their drawings and they may be used in other drawings and in all aspects of the invention.

Claims

1. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus for alerting traffic of a disabled vehicle, which apparatus comprises securing means for securing the apparatus to the vehicle, illumination means for illuminating the vehicle so that the vehicle is able to seen by passing traffic, support means for supporting the illumination means, and switch means for switching the apparatus on and off, and the apparatus being such that:
(i) the securing means is an electromagnetic securing means which operates only when the apparatus is switched on, thereby to enable the apparatus easily to be mounted on and removed from an elevated part of the vehicle; and
(ii) the support means is a collapsible support means having an extended position in which the illumination means is mounted in use sufficiently high for the vehicle to be clearly illuminated by the illumination means, and a collapsed position in which the support means is collapsed and the apparatus is of a smaller size for facilitating storage of the apparatus when the apparatus is not in use.
2. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to claim 1 in which the support means is a telescopic collapsible support means which telescopes between the extended and collapsed positions.
3. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to claim 1 in which the support means is a foldable collapsible support means which folds between the extended and collapsed positions.
4. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims in which the illumination means is protected from knocks when the support means is in the collapsed position.
5. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims and including a housing, in which the securing means secures the housing to the vehicle, and in which the support means extends from and collapses into the housing.
6. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to claim 5 in which the illumination means is located in the housing in the collapsed position of the support means, whereby the illumination means is protected from being damaged when the apparatus is being stored when it is not in use.
7. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to claim 5 or claim 6 in which the housing is a frusto-conical housing.
8. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims in which the illumination means is constructed to project light downwardly so that the light is concentrated where it is required.
9. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to claim 8 in which the illumination means projects the light downwardly in a cone.
10. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims in which the illumination means comprises a plurality of light emitting diodes.
11. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims in which the illumination means is fitted to the underside of a protective cap.
12. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims in which the illumination means is able to provide continuous light and/or flashing light.
13. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims in which the illumination means provides light of two colours to increase noticeability in an emergency situation.
14. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to claim 13 in which the illumination means provides red light and bright white light.
15. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims in which the switch means is a sliding switch means.
16. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims in which the apparatus includes a lead for enabling the apparatus to be powered from a battery of the vehicle.
17. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to claim 16 in which the lead includes a plug for enabling the lead to plug into a cigarette lighter socket in the vehicle.
18. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims in which the apparatus includes terminal means for receiving at least one back-up battery, whereby the apparatus is able to operate if the vehicle battery should not be working.
19. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims and including a base mat for making contact with the vehicle and ensuring that the apparatus does not mark the vehicle.
20. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to claim 19 in which the base mat is a rubber base mat.
21. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims and including at least one light reflector for reflecting light from the passing traffic, and thereby increasing the noticeability of the apparatus.
22. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to claim 21 in which the light reflector is positioned on the support means.
23. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to claim 21 or claim 22 in which the light reflector is at least one light reflecting strip.
24. Vehicle emergency warning apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims and including apertures for allowing wind to pass through the apparatus and thereby reduce the wind resistance of the apparatus and ensure that the apparatus stays securely mounted in position in use.
PCT/GB2010/000449 2009-03-31 2010-03-11 Vehicle emergency warning apparatus WO2010112806A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
GB0905592A GB0905592D0 (en) 2009-03-31 2009-03-31 Vehicle emergency warning apparatus
GB0905592.2 2009-03-31

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
WO2010112806A1 true WO2010112806A1 (en) 2010-10-07

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WO (1) WO2010112806A1 (en)

Cited By (4)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2500214A3 (en) * 2011-03-16 2012-12-12 The St. Christopher Project, LLC Vehicle emergency safety light
GB2507352A (en) * 2012-10-29 2014-04-30 Graham Williams Hazard warning beacon
CN108131642A (en) * 2016-11-30 2018-06-08 铃木株式会社 Position lighting apparatus and vehicle
CN108693874A (en) * 2017-04-12 2018-10-23 鸿富锦精密电子(天津)有限公司 Control system and method for tripod self-propelled vehicle

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US4633215A (en) * 1985-04-22 1986-12-30 Stoneburg Manufacturing, Inc. Disabled motor vehicle help summoning device
US4870543A (en) * 1988-10-24 1989-09-26 Robert L. Horton Extensible safety light
GB2280737A (en) * 1993-07-30 1995-02-08 Samuel George Neely Breakdown helper
DE10033423A1 (en) * 2000-07-08 2002-01-17 Siegfried Hortmann Warning signaling device for use with vehicles, has pressurized gas canister and batteries that are incorporated in socket to respectively inflate tube and feed current to flashing light
WO2004002779A1 (en) * 2002-07-01 2004-01-08 Meridiana Investimenti Sagl Emergency optical signalling device
AU2003236424A1 (en) * 2002-08-23 2004-03-11 Todd Kingsley Rangi Electromagnetic work light
US20040100372A1 (en) * 2002-11-26 2004-05-27 Chung-Ho Yang Convenience high-brightness breakdown alarm lamp of car

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* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US4633215A (en) * 1985-04-22 1986-12-30 Stoneburg Manufacturing, Inc. Disabled motor vehicle help summoning device
US4870543A (en) * 1988-10-24 1989-09-26 Robert L. Horton Extensible safety light
GB2280737A (en) * 1993-07-30 1995-02-08 Samuel George Neely Breakdown helper
DE10033423A1 (en) * 2000-07-08 2002-01-17 Siegfried Hortmann Warning signaling device for use with vehicles, has pressurized gas canister and batteries that are incorporated in socket to respectively inflate tube and feed current to flashing light
WO2004002779A1 (en) * 2002-07-01 2004-01-08 Meridiana Investimenti Sagl Emergency optical signalling device
AU2003236424A1 (en) * 2002-08-23 2004-03-11 Todd Kingsley Rangi Electromagnetic work light
US20040100372A1 (en) * 2002-11-26 2004-05-27 Chung-Ho Yang Convenience high-brightness breakdown alarm lamp of car

Cited By (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
EP2500214A3 (en) * 2011-03-16 2012-12-12 The St. Christopher Project, LLC Vehicle emergency safety light
GB2507352A (en) * 2012-10-29 2014-04-30 Graham Williams Hazard warning beacon
CN108131642A (en) * 2016-11-30 2018-06-08 铃木株式会社 Position lighting apparatus and vehicle
CN108131642B (en) * 2016-11-30 2021-01-05 铃木株式会社 Position lighting apparatus and vehicle
CN108693874A (en) * 2017-04-12 2018-10-23 鸿富锦精密电子(天津)有限公司 Control system and method for tripod self-propelled vehicle

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