Sequential taillight illumination system
OwnerMichael Muhlbaier, Sebastian Blicharzinventors
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A motor vehicle taillight employs light emitting diode (LED) technology, versus traditional incandescent lighting, to the sequential illumination of LED arrays, based on the nominal time it takes for LEDs to turn on and off. Separate or combined input signals from the brake, the turn signal blinker, and the rear marker activate controller subsystems to sequentially illuminate and deactivate LED arrays located within separate sections of the taillight. Significant benefits, such as lower power, cool burning, and long lasting bulbs result. In addition, the sequential LED array illumination design adds an intriguing effect, creating a marketable, visual appeal.
Claims40
A motor vehicle taillight system for the sequential illumination of light emitting diodes (LEDs) comprising:
- a motor vehicle taillight element;
- input means for providing a signal to the taillight element;
- a series of LEDs forming an LED array;
- and
- activating means for providing a flow of electrical current to sequentially illuminate the LEDs in the LED array upon receipt of the signal from the input means and to cease the flow of electrical current to sequentially deactivate the LED array upon cessation of the signal from the input means.
A motor vehicle taillight system for the sequential illumination of light emitting diodes (LEDs), said taillight system having a taillight element comprising:
- a series of LEDs forming a plurality of LED brake light arrays;
- first input means for providing a signal to the brake light arrays;
- a series of LEDs forming a plurality of LED turn signal blinker light arrays;
- second input means for providing a signal to the blinker light arrays;
- and
- activating means for providing a flow of electric current to sequentially illuminate the LEDs in the brake light LED arrays upon receipt of the signal from the first input means and to cease the flow of electric current to sequentially deactivate these LEDs upon cessation of the signal from the first input means, said activating means also providing a flow of electrical current to sequentially illuminate the LEDs in the turn signal blinker LED arrays upon receipt of the signal from the second input means and to cease the flow of electric current to sequentially deactivate these LEDs upon cessation of the signal from the second input means.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.