US20080136661A1

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Publication number: US20080136661A1
Application number: US12/032,908
Authority: US
Inventors: John C. Pederson; Dan Severson; Cathy Jo Severson
Original assignee: Federal Law Enforcement Development Services Inc
Current assignee: Federal Law Enforcement Development Services Inc
Priority date: 2000-11-15
Filing date: 2008-02-18
Publication date: 2008-06-12
Also published as: WO2002041276A3; WO2002041276A2; US7046160B2; US20060238368A1; US20050231381A1; US6879263B2; US20020105432A1

Abstract

A light emitting diode (LED) warning signal light and communication device comprising a controller for generating a first observable light signal and a second non-observable light signal within said first light signal. The second light signal is formed of packets of individual pulsed light which may be processed for comparison to data stored in memory integral to a controller for communication of information to an individual through the use of pulsed light signals.

Description

The present invention claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application entitled “Led Warning Signal Lights and Communication System,” provisional patent application Ser. No. 60/248,894 filed Nov. 15, 2000, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Light bars or emergency lights of the type used on emergency vehicles such as fire trucks, police cars, and ambulances, utilize warning signal lights to produce a variety of light signals. These light signals involve the use of various colors and patterns. Generally, these warning signal lights consist of incandescent and halogen light sources having reflective back support members and colored filters.

Many problems exist with the known methods for producing warning light signals. One particular problem with known light sources is their reliance on mechanical components to revolve or oscillate the lamps to produce the desired light signal. Additionally, these components increase the size of the light bar or emergency lights which may adversely affect the vehicle's aerodynamic characteristics. Moreover, because of the relatively poor reliability of conventional lighting and the complexity of the present strobe rotational systems there is an increased likelihood that a breakdown of the light bar or light source will occur requiring the repair or replacement of the defective component. Finally, conventional light bars and light sources require a relatively large amount of electrical current during operation. The demands upon the electrical power system for a vehicle may therefore exceed available electrical resources reducing optimization of performance or worse, generating a potential hazard from shorted or over-heated systems.

Halogen lamps or gaseous discharge xenon lamps generally emanate large amounts of heat which is difficult to dissipate from a sealed light enclosure or emergency light and which may damage the electronic circuitry contained therein. In addition, these lamps consume large amounts of current requiring a large power supply, battery, or electrical source which may be especially problematic for use with a vehicle. These lamps also generate substantial electromagnetic emissions which may interfere with radio communications for a vehicle. Finally, these lamps, which are not rugged, have relatively short life cycles necessitating frequent replacement.

Another problem with the known warning signal lights is the use of filters to produce a desired color. Filtering techniques produce more heat that must be dissipated. Moreover, changing the color of a light source requires the physical removal of the filter from the light source or emergency light and the replacement with a new filter. Furthermore, filters fade or flake over time rendering the filters unable to consistently produce a desired color for observation in an emergency situation.

These problems associated with traditional signaling lamps are exacerbated by the fact that creating multiple light signals requires multiple signaling lamps. Further, there is little flexibility in modifying the light signal created by a lamp. For example, changing a stationary lamp into one that rotates or oscillates would require a substantial modification to the light bar or light source which may not be physically or economically possible.

The present invention generally relates to electrical lamps and to high brightness light-emitting diode or “LED” technology which operates to replace gaseous discharge or incandescent lamps as used with vehicle warning signal light sources.

In the past, the xenon gaseous discharge lamps have utilized a sealed compartment, usually a gas tube, which may have been filled with a particular gas known to have good illuminating characteristics. One such gas used for this purpose was xenon gas, which provides illumination when it becomes ionized by the appropriate voltage application. Xenon gas discharge lamps are used in the automotive industry to provide high intensity lighting and are used on emergency vehicles to provide a visible emergency signal light.

A xenon gas discharge lamp usually comprises a gas-filled tube which has an anode element at one end and a cathode element at the other end, with both ends of the tube being sealed. The anode and cathode elements each have an electrical conductor attached, which passes through the sealed gas end of the lamp exterior. An ionizing trigger wire is typically wound in a helical manner about the exterior of the glass tube, and this wire is connected to a high voltage power source typically on the order of 10-12 kilowatts (kw). The anode and cathode connections are connected to a lower level voltage source which is sufficient to maintain illumination of the lamp once the interior gas has been ionized by the high voltage source. The gas remains ignited until the anode/cathode voltage is removed; and once the gas ionization is stopped, the lamp may be ignited again by reapplying the anode/cathode voltage and reapplying the high voltage to the trigger wire via a voltage pulse.

Xenon gas lamps are frequently made from glass tubes which are formed into semicircular loops to increase the relative light intensity from the lamp while maintaining a relatively small form factor. These lamps generate extremely high heat intensity, and therefore, require positioning of the lamps so as to not cause heat buildup in nearby components. The glass tube of a xenon lamp is usually mounted on a light-based pedestal which is sized to fit into an opening in the light fixture and to hold the heat generating tube surface in a light fixture compartment which is separated from other interior compartment surfaces or components. In a vehicle application, the light and base pedestal are typically sized to fit through an opening in the light fixture which is about 1 inch in diameter. The light fixture component may have a glass or plastic cover made from colored material so as to produce a colored lighting effect when the lamp is ignited. Xenon gas discharge lamps naturally produce white light, which may be modified to produce a colored light, of lesser intensity, by placing the xenon lamp in a fixture having a colored lens. The glass tube of the xenon lamp may also be painted or otherwise colored to produce a similar result, although the light illumination from the tube tends to dominate the coloring; and the light may actually have a colored tint appearance rather than a solid colored light. The color blue is particularly hard to produce in this manner.

Because a preferred use of xenon lamps is in connection with emergency vehicles, it is particularly important that the lamp be capable of producing intense coloring associated with emergency vehicles, i.e., red, blue, amber, green, and clear.

When xenon lamps are mounted in vehicles, some care must be taken to reduce the corroding effects of water and various chemicals, including road salt, which might contaminate the light fixture. Corrosive effects may destroy the trigger wire and the wire contacts leading to the anode and cathode. Corrosion is enhanced because of the high heat generating characteristics of the lamp which may heat the air inside the lamp fixture when the lamp is in use, and this heated air may condense when the lamp is off resulting in moisture buildup inside the fixture. The buildup of moisture may result in the shorting out of the electrical wires and degrade the performance of the emission wire, sometimes preventing proper ionization of the gas within the xenon gas discharge lamp.

Another problem with the known warning signal lights is the use of rotational and/or oscillating mechanisms which are utilized to impart a rotational or oscillating movement to a light source for observation during emergency situations. These mechanical devices are frequently cumbersome and difficult to incorporate and couple onto various locations about a vehicle due to the size of the device. These mechanical devices also frequently require a relatively large power source to impart rotational and/or oscillating movement for a light source.

Another problem with the known warning signal lights is the absence of flexibility for the provision of variable intensity for the light sources to increase the number of available distinct and independent visual light effects. In certain situations it may be desirable to provide variable intensity for a light signal, or a modulated intensity for a light signal, to provide a unique light effect to facilitate observation by an individual. In addition, the provision of a variable or modulated light intensity for a light signal may further enhance the ability to provide a unique desired light effect for observation by an individual.

No known warning light systems utilize a variable or modulated light intensity to modify a standard lighting effect nor do they have the design flexibility to easily make those changes. The warning lights as known are generally limited to a flashing light signal. Alternatively, other warning signal lights may provide a sequential illumination of light sources. No warning or utility light signals are known which simultaneously provide for modulated and/or variable light intensity for a known type of light signal to create a unique and desirable type of lighting effect.

No warning signal lights are known which provide irregular or random light intensity to a warning signal light to provide a desired lighting effect. Also, no warning light signals are known which provide a regular pattern of variable or modulated light intensity for a warning signal light to provide a desired type of lighting effect. It has also not been known to provide a warning light signal which combines either irregular variable light intensity or regular modulated light intensity to provide a unique and desired combination lighting effect.

It has also not been known to provide alternative colored LED light sources which may be electrically controlled for the provision of any desired pattern of light signal such as flashing, pulsating, oscillating, modulating, variable, rotational, alternating, strobe, sequential, and/or combination light effects. In this regard, a need exists to provide a spatially and electrically efficient LED light source for use on an emergency or utility vehicle which provides the appearance of rotation, or other types of light signals.

In view of the above, there is a need for a warning signal light that:

(1) Is capable of producing multiple light signals;

(2) Produces the appearance of a revolving or oscillating light signal without reliance upon mechanical components;

(3) Generates little heat;

(4) Uses substantially less electrical current;

(5) Produces significantly reduced amounts of electromagnetic emissions;

(6) Is rugged and has a long life cycle;

(7) Produces a truer light output color without the use of filters;

(8) Is positionable at a variety of locations about an emergency vehicle; and

(9) Provides variable light intensity to the light source.

Other problems associated with the known warning signal lights relate to the restricted positioning of the signal light on a vehicle due to the size and shape of the light source. In the past, light sources due to the relatively large size of light bars or light sources, were required to be placed on the roof of a vehicle or at a location which did not interfere with, or obstruct, an operator's ability to visualize objects while seated in the interior of the vehicle. Light bars or light sources generally extended perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of a vehicle and were therefore more difficult to observe from the sides by an individual.

The ease of visualization of an emergency vehicle is a primary concern to emergency personnel regardless of the location of the observer. In the past, optimal observation of emergency lights has occurred when an individual was either directly in front of, or behind, an emergency vehicle. Observation from the sides, or at an acute angle relative to the sides, frequently resulted in reduced observation of emergency lights during an emergency situation. A need therefore exists to improve the observation of emergency lights for a vehicle regardless of the location of the observer. A need also exists to improve the flexibility of placement of emergency lights upon a vehicle for observation by individuals during emergency situations.

A need exists to reduce the size of light sources on an emergency vehicle and to improve the efficiency of the light sources particularly with respect to current draw and reduced aerodynamic drag. In addition, the flexibility for the positioning of the light sources about a vehicle is required to be enhanced in order to optimize utility for a warning signal light. In order to satisfy these and other needs, more spatially efficient light sources such as LED's are required.

In the past, illumination of an area to the front or to the sides of an emergency vehicle during low light conditions has been problematic. Take-down lights have been utilized by law enforcement personnel for a number of purposes including, but not necessarily limited to, enhancing observation of an individual in a vehicle on a roadway subject to investigation and to hide the location of an officer, or to block or deter observation of an officer by individuals during law enforcement activities.

A need exists for an LED take-down light which has significant illumination characteristics, is spatially efficient, has a long useful life, and has reduced current draw requirements for use on a law enforcement or utility vehicle.

The alley lights as known also suffer from the deficiencies as identified for the take-down lights during dark illumination conditions. Alley lights are used to illuminate areas adjacent to the sides of a vehicle.

In the past, the intersection clearing lights have been predominately formed of halogen, incandescent, and/or gaseous discharge xenon illumination sources. A need exists for an intersection clearing light which solves these and other identified problems.

A problem has also existed with respect to the use of emergency lights on unmarked law enforcement vehicles. In the past, emergency lights for unmarked law enforcement vehicles have consisted of dome devices which are formed of revolving mechanisms. These lights are usually withdrawn from a storage position under a motor vehicle seat for placement upon dashboard of a law enforcement vehicle. In undercover situations it has been relatively easy to identify dashboard affixation mechanisms used to secure these types of dome illumination devices to a dashboard. The known dome devices are also clumsy, have large current draw requirements, and are difficult to store in a convenient location for retrieval in an emergency situation by an individual. A need therefore exists for an emergency vehicle or utility warning light which is spatially efficient, easily hidden from view, and is transportable by an individual for retrieval during an emergency situation.

A need also exists for a new emergency vehicle light bar which is aerodynamic and which provides for both a longitudinal illumination element and an elevated pod illumination device.

In the past, emergency personnel, law enforcement officers, air traffic controllers, and/or pilots have utilized radio frequencies as a primary means of communication. One draw back associated with the use of radio frequency communication is the limited number of radio frequencies available for use within high density traffic areas where radio saturation may cause an unsafe condition through delayed communication and response during transmission of routine information. In addition, a number of available radio frequencies have been assigned for digital transmission further limiting the accessability and/or availability of transmission of routine information. Further, radio frequencies have generally not been available for certain applications including communication between motor vehicles and ground sources related to avionics such as approach lighting and/or taxi location identification.

Another problem associated the use of radio frequencies for communication of routine information is the material intensive nature of the transmitters and/or receivers. The radio frequency transmitters and receivers are generally expensive and further require a large power supply which is a concern for motor vehicle and/or aircraft applications. A need exists for additional avenues of relatively short range communication which do not utilize radio frequency transmissions. In general, cell phones and/or microwave communication are not viable communication alternatives and/or options due to the need for instantaneous communication and receipt of information without the necessity to identify, dial, connect, and couple to a receiver. A need therefore exists for use of an alternative communication source and/or carrier of information which is instantaneous and has high reliability with economical power consumption and material requirements.

In the past, attempts have been made to use light as a communication source normally associated with laser optics. In general, the use of laser optics as a communication source has raised a number of considerations related to performance, durability, and expense. Further, laser optic communication may be difficult to achieve due to the inflexibility of the lasers for transmission of both a directional and/or non-directional signal. The use of laser optics as a communication source has therefore not proven to be reliable, economical and/or viable for use in motor vehicle and avionics applications.

A need exists for a pulsed light signal for communication of information which is durable, reliable, and economical to an end user.

Federal Aviation Administration regulations require an anti-collision light system for placement on the fuselage of all aircraft. The rotating features of a dome light and/or flashing beacon include many of the same problems as earlier described related to size, durability, performance, current draw parameters, and ease of maintenance. In general, the light sources utilized within a rotating dome light or flashing beacon are not durable or efficient.

A need exists to replace the known illumination sources for a rotating dome light and/or flashing beacon as utilized within aircraft with modern LED light sources.

Radio frequency transmissions are regulated within the vicinity of an air field to eliminate and/or minimize risk of interference with air traffic communications. A need exists for alternative communication carriers for reduction of radio frequency communications within the vicinity of an airport. Due to human factors, in the past it has generally been quite difficult to instantaneously identify the exact location of aircraft adjacent to runways during taxiing.

As known, taxi ways of airports have generally utilized stationary lights, runway lights, and/or approach lights, which are not formed of LED technology. Therefore, the brightness, durability, and economics related to current draw have not been maximized to provide optimal performance for the known stationary lights, runway lights, and/or approach lights for an airport.

In the past it has not been known to use the stationary lights, runway lights, and/or approach lights as a communication source for the control of air traffic at an airport. Further, in the past an aircraft rotating exterior dome illumination source has not been used to simultaneously function as a communication device for the transmission and receipt of variable and/or pulsated light signals as generated from an LED light source. The variable and/or pulsed light signals may be alternatively described as the systematic information transfer through encrypted/pulsed light or acronym SIT-TEL. Further, it has not been know to use a variable and/or pulsating light signal or SIT-TEL communication, as generated from an anti-collision light, as an information courier through the use of LED technology.

The Federal Aviation Administration requires identification and collision avoidance systems to be operational at all times at all airports for regulation of ground and air traffic. No communication device is know which transmits an encrypted code within a light carrier for communication of information such as the proximity to a specific location, and/or for aircraft identification.

In the past, air traffic controllers have relied upon VFR or radar signals in order to identify the position of aircraft relative to a control tower. Air traffic controllers also utilize redundant VFR and/or radar systems as backup systems in the event of an initial systems failure. No economical and/or low power backup system to the VFR location indicators is generally available. The high power requirements and equipment expense of VFR radar systems, and the necessity for redundant backup systems, is quite costly for an airport. A further backup utilizing a communication system operating through recognition of pulsed light signals incorporating low power requirements may be extremely useful.

Radio frequency communications are frequently limited, in that there are a finite number of available radio frequencies for commercial and/or private use. The available radio frequency signals are also heavily regulated by the Federal Communications Commission. In a number of instances, the use of radio frequency transmissions may cause interference with a localized environment which in turn may adversely affect adjacent radio frequency transmitters. A benefit obtained from use of a light source as a communication carrier is that there are a virtually infinite number of available wavelengths for a light source. No device has been previously known which utilize LED technology to generate light signals used as a carrier of information for the replacement of radio transmissions, and as particularly used in association with vehicles and/or aircraft. In addition, no device is known which utilizes a light signal for transmission to a receiver which may then trigger audio and/or pre-stored information or convert information transmitted through the use of pulsed light into an audio signal.

A further problem with aircraft rotating illumination domes and/or flashing beacons is the failure of the illumination domes and/or flashing beacons to continue operations during emergency landing situations where the power for the aircraft is terminated. Due to the large power requirements for the rotating domes and/or flashing beacons, any power outage within the aircraft normally terminates the illumination of the rotating dome and/or flashing beacon. The power requirements for the rotating domes and/or flashing beacon illumination sources is generally sufficiently large to prohibit the transportation and use of additional battery sources for an aircraft during emergency landing situations. A need therefore exists for an emergency beacon light source which may continue to operate for an extended period of time, having low power consumption, which may be operated by a transported battery within an aircraft. An LED light source associated with the rotating light and/or exterior beacon therefore significantly improves the operation of the rotating beacon as an emergency beacon during emergency landing situations. Further, the low power requirements of the LED light source enable an exterior rotating light source and/or flashing beacon to operate for an extended period of time following a crash landing to signal the identification of a downed aircraft.

Needs continue to exist for the use of an LED illumination source and communication device for use on aircraft support vehicles, to enhance visual identification and location relative to an airport; to augment the proximity warning systems for aircraft and the regulation of air and ground traffic adjacent to an airport; to enhance the proximity and anti-collision warning light systems of towers for identification by aircraft; for the provision of economical and high brightness LED technology light sources for use in airport runway lighting, airport obstruction lighting, tower lighting, obstacle lighting, taxi lighting, and for use on aircraft as rotating domes and/or flashing beacons and/or landing lights.

Law enforcement officers in the past have generally been limited to visualization of a license plate for identification purposes. Upon visualization of a license plate, an officer may enter the observed license plate into a data base for identification of vehicle registration information. In the past, law enforcement personnel have also utilized optical aids such as focused optics and/or scopes to assist in the visualization and identification of license plates on moving vehicles. The optical and/or focused optic devices are generally expensive and may be extremely difficult to operate during moving conditions. Vehicles having the targeted license plates frequently change lanes and/or bounce upon uneven roadways rendering observation difficult.

No device is presently known which is inexpensive and which utilizes LED technology in association with a license plate, which includes the use of an LED transmitter and light receiver as coupled to a controller, to receive and transmit a pulsed LED light signal or SIT-TEL communication as a carrier of information to a law enforcement vehicle. No device is also known which minimizes environmental interference and accurately confirms the correct tagging, observation, and/or interrogation of a license plate by a law enforcement officer. Further, no backup device is known which supplements the confirmation system for verification of identification of a vehicle subject to consideration.

Another problem with the known law enforcement identification systems for vehicles is that law enforcement personnel are frequently required to place themselves within a certain proximity of a vehicle under observation. Proximity to a suspect vehicle significantly increases the likelihood of recognition of the location of the law enforcement personnel. Law enforcement personnel do not wish to place themselves in close proximity to a vehicle under consideration. Law enforcement personnel desire to be unobserved by suspects during law enforcement investigations and/or activities.

No communication device is known which may transmit license plate information such as the plate number, registered owner, make, model, and/or status of the license plate, to insure that a correct vehicle has been interrogated during police investigations. A need also exists to assists law enforcement officers in speed trap activities to confirm and verify the correct tagging of a target vehicle with radar and/or laser speed detection devices. No communication device is currently known which provides flexibility to select between a focused interrogation specific function versus a non-directional interrogation function for investigation of vehicles relative to a law enforcement officer through the use of LED technology. Further, no communication device is known which may simultaneously check and compare all license plates within the proximity of a law enforcement vehicle for a specific status such as a stolen vehicle identification through a continuous non-directional sweep of a transmitted LED light signal.

In the past, buoys have been used in marine applications to identify channels and hazards such as reefs, bars, rocks, and/or shallow water conditions. The warning buoys as known have frequently not included visual warning light signals. Alternatively, the known warning buoys have included visual warning light signals which have not been bright or rugged. These warning buoy light sources have suffered a relatively short life and have required a relatively large battery source. As such, the warning light signals used with marine buoys have not been efficient for signaling marine traffic. No marine buoy is known which utilizes LED technology to conserve power and to provide a durable and long useful life light source which may be operated on a relatively small battery and/or solar power source.

In addition, no marine buoy is known which incorporates an LED light source which contains a modulated and/or variable light controller which may simultaneously transmit a pulsed light signal or SIT-TEL communication to transmit information obviating the necessity for radio transmissions.

Currently each year a significant number of automobiles and other motor vehicles are involved in accidents with trains at railroad crossings. Frequently these accidents occur at railroad crossings in rural areas which are not marked with railroad crossing gates, warning bells, and/or flashing light signals. The absence of warning devices is frequently the result of economic considerations at remote and/or low traffic areas. A need exists for a warning light signal at remote railroad crossings which may be easily attached to an existing railroad crossing sign. Further, a need exists for a low power, battery powered, and/or solar powered light signal for use at remote railroad crossings which may be easily activated by an approaching train to warn traffic to reduce the likelihood of a vehicle/train collision.

In the past, emergency vehicles have used radio frequency transmissions to trigger intersection semaphores to switch to a green light signal to permit uninhibited passage of the emergency vehicle through the intersection. A problem with the radio frequency transmissions is the lack of available radio wavelengths, and the localized radio frequency interference, adjacent to intersections. In addition, the devices as known frequently have a large current consumption and are relatively expensive. The positioning and wiring of OPTICOM receiving and switching devices upon semaphores is generally elevated above an intersection/increasing initial construction expenses. The positioning of the OPTICOM receiving and switching devices, therefore renders maintenance and/or replacement problematic.

It has not been known to use light emitting diodes to provide a light signal to trigger an OPTICOM intersection clearing light. In addition, it has not been known to improve the useful life of an OPTICOM device through the use of long life rugged LED technology which may be operated by a low voltage power source such as a battery and/or solar power unit.

No device is known which provides simultaneous communication to a plurality of independently operated units of soldiers within a theater of operation which coordinates movement, actions, location of friendly troops, and/or identifies the location of hostile soldiers through the use of a pulsed light communication system. In this regard, no device is known which may have the dual functionality of a light source such as a flare in combination with a pulsed SIT-TEL communication system. As is known, radio communications within a theater of operation are frequently interrupted or terminated leaving units of troops without direction as to modified objectives. A need therefore exists for alternative sources of communication which do not rely upon radio transmissions for communication of orders and/or other types of critical information to soldiers engaged in hostilities. In addition, silence and the secretion of the location of troops within a theater of operations is frequently critical. Within situations necessitating silence, the use of radio transmissions is prohibited leaving soldiers without effective communications. A need therefore exists for an alternative source of communication for soldiers which is silent and which does not rely upon radio transmissions.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

According to the invention, there is provided a light emitting diode (LED) warning signal light and systematic information transfer through encrypted pulsed light SIT-TEL communication system which may be depicted in several embodiments. In general, the warning signal light and SIT-TEL pulsed light communication system may be formed of a single row, single source, or an array of light emitting diode light sources configured on a light support and in electrical communication with a controller and a power supply, battery, or other electrical source. The warning signal light and SIT-TEL pulsed light communication system may provide various light signals, colored light signals, or combination or patterns of light signals for use in association with a vehicle or by an individual. These light signals may include a strobe light, a pulsating light, a revolving light, a flashing light, a modulated or variable intensity light, an oscillating light, an alternating light, a pulsating light signal, an encoded signal, and/or any combination thereof. Additionally, the warning signal light and SIT-TEL pulsed light communication system may be capable of displaying symbols, characters, or arrows. Rotating and oscillating light signals may be produced by sequentially illuminating columns of LED s on a stationary light support in combination with the provision of variable light intensity from the controller. However, the warning signal light and SIT-TEL pulsed light communication system may also be rotated or oscillated via mechanical means. The warning signal light and SIT-TEL pulsed light communication system may also be easily transportable and may be conveniently connected to a stand such as a tripod for electrical coupling to a power supply, battery, or other electrical source as a remote stand-alone signaling or communication device.

The warning signal light and/or replacement warning signal light and SIT-TEL pulsed light communication system may be electrically coupled to a controller used to modulate, pulse, or encode, the light intensity for the light sources to provide for various patterns of illumination to create an illusion of rotation or other type of illusion for the warning signal light without the use of mechanical devices and/or to transmit and/or receive messages as desired by an individual.

A reflective light assembly may also be provided. The reflective light assembly may rotate about a stationary light source or the light source may rotate about a stationary reflector. The reflective assembly may also be positioned at an acute angle of approximately 45° above a stationary LED panel or solitary light source, where the reflector may be rotated about a pivot point and axis to create the appearance of rotation for the light source.

The controller is preferably in electrical communication with the power supply and the LED s to modulate the light intensity for the LED light sources for provision of a desired type of warning light effect or encoded SIT-TEL pulsed light communication signal as desired by an individual. Each individual light support may be positioned adjacent to, and be in electrical communication with, another light support through the use of suitable electrical connections. A plurality of light supports or solitary light sources may be electrically coupled in either a parallel or series manner to the controller. The controller is also preferably in electrical communication with the power supply and the LED's, to regulate or modulate the light intensity for the LED light sources for variable illumination of the LED light sources as observed by an individual. The warning signal lights may encircle an emergency vehicle. In addition, the light support may be encased within a waterproof enclosure to prevent moisture or other contamination of the LED light sources.

The individual LED s and/or arrays of LED s may be used as take-down and/or alley lights by law enforcement vehicles to illuminate dark areas relative to the emergency vehicle. The take-down light source may be stationary or may be coupled to one or more rotational mechanisms as desired. The intersection clearing light may be a particular application of the alley light as mounted to a motor for oscillation of the light source forwardly and rearwardly relative to an emergency vehicle. The intersection clearing mode preferably rotates or oscillates the alley lights forwardly and rearwardly on each side of a light bar as the emergency vehicle enters an intersection. The intersection clearing light mode preferably warns all traffic perpendicular to the direction of travel of the emergency vehicle as to the presence of an emergency vehicle within an intersection. When the intersection clearing light mode is not in operation the alley light or take-down light may be used to provide illumination at any desired angle relative to the passenger or drivers areas of an emergency vehicle.

A portable pocket LED warning signal light may be provided having a base and a power adaptor for use in unmarked law enforcement vehicles. The portable pocket LED warning signal light may also be connected to, or have, an integral controller for the provision of a variety of unique light signals as earlier described. The portable pocket LED may also include one or more reflective culminators to enhance the performance of the warning or utility signal light.

A light bar may also be provided having one or more elevated pod illumination elements. Each pod illumination element may be raised with respect to a light bar by one or more supports which extend upwardly from the base. The pod illumination elements may be oval or circular in shape. The light bar may also include one or more longitudinal light elements integral to the base which extend transversely to the roof of an emergency vehicle.

The light bar may also include a systematic information transfer through encrypted/pulsed light (SIT-TEL) system including a source of LED pulsed light, a receiver of LED pulsed light, and a controller to reflect and interpret received signals and generate LED pulsed light signals used in the communication of information.

An LED SIT-TEL light signal is provided for replacement of the exterior rotating dome or flashing beacon of an aircraft. The LED light support may be rotated and/or stationary as desired. In addition, the LED light support includes a controller for the provision of a variety of different types of light signals including but not necessarily limited to sequential illumination and/or modulated and/or variable light intensity to simulate the appearance of a rotating or flashing light beacon. The LED light signal may include a battery source which may be coupled to a solar powered energy cell to provide operation and/or functionality when the main power supply for an aircraft is unavailable. The controller for the LED light support may generate and/or recognize SIT-TEL pulsed light signals used to communicate information to a pilot such as location, clearance, collision warning, obstacle warning, and/or other aviation information. The SIT-TEL LED light system may also include a receptor coupled to the controller where the receptor is constructed and arranged for receipt of pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals for conversion to digital information for transfer to the controller for analysis and interpretation. The controller may then issue a warning light signal or other communication signal to the pilot to reflect received information transmitted via a SIT-TEL pulsed LED light carrier.

The SIT-TEL LED light system may also be modified for simultaneous use as an illumination source, receiver, and transmitter device for use as aviation taxi lights, positioning lights, runway lights, approach lights, and/or other aviation light sources. The taxi, runway, approach, anti-collision, positioning LED lights and/or other aviation lights may simultaneously be electrically coupled by wire or optically coupled to a control tower processing center, to provide instantaneous information to air traffic controllers, representative of the relative position of an aircraft within an airport. The transmission, receipt and/or interpretation of a SIT-TEL pulsed LED light signals may significantly reduce the volume of radio frequency transmissions proximate to an airport. An air traffic controller within a tower may easily view a screen which will identify the location and other information of an aircraft without the necessity for audio communication via radio frequency transmissions.

A SIT-TEL LED light system and license plate communication system may include a license plate having an LED light transmitter and an LED light receiver/receptor. The LED transmitter and the LED receptor are each coupled/connected to a controller. The controller is constructed and arranged for regulating a modulated, variable, and/or pulsed SIT-TEL light signal to be received and recognized by a second receptor located within a law enforcement vehicle. A response SIT-TEL LED pulsed light signal may be generated by the law enforcement vehicle and received by the first receptor integral to the license plate. The responsive pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal as transmitted from the license plate LED transmitter may include a series of unique signal packets representative of information such as the license plate number, vehicle registration information, and vehicle license plate status. The controller on the law enforcement vehicle may then process the signal received by the license plate for comparison to a data base to display transmitted information on a visible screen for observation by an officer. The SIT-TEL LED light signal system and license plate facilitates interrogation of a license plate without necessitating a police vehicle to close to an observable distance during investigation activities. The existence of a law enforcement vehicle may continue to be undetected facilitating law enforcement activities. The SIT-TEL LED light system and license plate invention may also function to verify the accuracy of a tagged vehicle by law enforcement officers during law enforcement activities.

An LED light source may be incorporated into a marine buoy as a replacement for a conventional light source. The LED light source has improved durability and life expectancy as compared to conventional light sources. The reduced current draw requirements permit an LED light source to be used within a marine buoy as powered by a battery and supplemented by recharging through coupling to a solar energy cell. In addition, the LED light source and marine buoy may include a controller and receptor where the receptor is constructed and arranged to receive a SIT-TEL pulsed LED signal at a preselected SIT-TEL wavelength. The received SIT-TEL pulsed light signal may then be translated by the controller to initiate the transmission of a responsive SIT-TEL pulsed LED light signal which may include information such as longitudinal and/or latitude coordinates and/or other information as may be useful to a ship captain for navigation, and/or a harbor master for marine traffic control and/or channel marking.

A SIT-TEL LED light communication system may be incorporated into a railroad crossing sign for the provision of a warning signal light indicating the presence of a train. The SIT-TEL LED light communication system preferably includes a controller and a receptor adapted to receive a pulsed light signal. A passing train preferably includes a SIT-TEL LED transmitter and controller to generate a SIT-TEL pulsed light signal for receipt by the receptor located on the railroad crossing sign. The generated pulsed light signal from the train is received by the receptor which in turn is passed to the controller for translation and activation of a visual warning light signal and/or audible warning signal at the railroad crossing. The caboose and/or end of the train may include a second LED transmitter which generates a second pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal. The receipt of the second pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal by the receptor is then translated and processed by the controller to terminate illumination of the LED warning light signal and/or audible alarm at the railroad crossing. The LED light source receptor and controller may be powered by a low current power source such as a battery which may be recharged by coupling to a solar power cell. A SIT-TEL LED warning light signal may then be economically provided at remote rural railroad crossings where traffic volume does not justify inclusion of crossing bars, warning bells, and/or traditional light sources. The necessity for power lines coupling a power source to remote railroad crossing warning signals is thereby eliminated.

A SIT-TEL LED light source controller and receptor is preferably coupled adjacent to an intersection semaphore for activation by law enforcement and/or emergency vehicles during emergency situations to alter a light signal to permit unobstructed passage of a law enforcement and/or emergency vehicle during emergency situations. A law enforcement and/or emergency vehicle includes a SIT-TEL LED light system and a controller constructed and arranged to transmit a unique pulsed or encoded SIT-TEL LED light signal. The OPTICOM receptor upon receipt of the pulsed or encoded LED light signal, transfers the received signal to the controller for processing for immediate activation and/or alteration of the traffic semaphore to permit passage of the law enforcement and/or emergency vehicle through the intersection. The LED light source receptor, transmitter, and controller function to receive and generate a pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal significantly enhancing the utility of an intersection clearing OPTICOM device through the elimination of the necessity for use of nondurable short life conventional illumination sources while simultaneously facilitating ease of maintenance and/or replacement. In addition, the use of an LED light source within the OPTICOM intersection clearing light reduces electronic current requirements by the provision of power through the use of a battery which may be coupled to solar energy power cell.

The SIT-TEL systematic information through encrypted/pulsed light system may be incorporated into a flare used within a theater of operations as a back-up or replacement communication system. The flare including the SIT-TEL communication system may include a cylindrical housing having a parachute; a plurality of LED light sources; a pulsed light photosensitive receiver for detection of pulsed light signals for reprogramming of communications to be transmitted as regulated by a controller; and a controller for regulating pulsed LED light signals which may be used for encrypted communications. The flare further may include a cavity holding solid fuel or other types of propellant and one or more stabilizers. The flare is launched into operation through the use of a mortar or other device. The controller within the flare may be reprogrammed prior to launch or following deployment of the parachute for recognition and generation of pulsed light signals from the plurality of LED light sources in order to transmit non-radio communication signals to troops within a theater of operation. A programming transmitter including a controller and a pulsed LED light generator may be used to program the controller within the flare. Alternatively, the controller within the flare may be coupled to a programming device such as a central processing unit through the use of a cable. Troops and/or soldiers may each carry a photosensitive receiver which is constructed and arranged to recognize pulsed encrypted LED light signals for translation into a communication which may be observed on a transported display. The display may be sized for transportation within the pocket of a soldier. Alternatively, the display may be of sufficient size for transportation by a designated communication soldier.

A principal advantage of the present invention is to provide a warning signal light capable of simulating revolving or oscillating light signals without the use of mechanical components.

Another principal advantage of the present invention is that the warning signal light is capable of producing several different types of light signals or combinations or patterns of light signals.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is to be rugged and to have a relatively longer life cycle than traditional warning signal lights.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is to produce a truer or pure light output color without the use of filters.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is to allow the user to adjust the color of the light signal without having to make a physical adjustment to the light source from a multi-colored panel.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is the provision of an LED light source which is formed of a relatively simple and inexpensive design, construction, and operation and which fulfills the intended purpose without fear of failure or risk of injury to persons and/or damage to property.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is the provision of an LED light source for creation of bright bursts of intense white or colored light to enhance the visibility and safety of a vehicle in an emergency signaling situation.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is the provision of an LED light source which produces brilliant lighting in any of the colors associated with an emergency vehicle light signal such as red, blue, amber, green, and/or white.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is the provision of an LED light source which is highly resistant to corrosive effects and which is impervious to moisture build-up.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is the provision of an LED light source which is simple and may facilitate the ease of installation and replacement of a xenon, halogen, and/or incandescent light source upon an aircraft, vehicle, within an aviation application, on a marine buoy, at a railroad crossing, as an OPTICOM traffic signal changer, on a license plate or upon a motor vehicle.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is the provision of an LED light source which reduces RF emissions which may interfere with other radio and electronic equipment.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is the provision of a warning signal light which may be easily visualized during emergency situations thereby enhancing the safety of emergency personnel.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is the provision of a warning signal light which includes LED technology and which is operated by a controller to provide any desired type or color of light signal including but not limited to rotational, pulsating, oscillating, strobe, flashing, encoded, alternating, variable, and/or modulated light signals without the necessity for mechanical devices.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is the provision of a warning signal light which is capable of simultaneously producing several different types of light signals.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is the provision of an LED light source which is flexible and which may be connected to a modulated illumination source to provide variable light intensity for the light source which in turn is used to create the appearance of rotation and/or oscillation without the use of mechanical rotation or oscillating devices.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is the provision of an LED take-down light which has significant illumination characteristics which prohibits an individual located in a temporarily stopped vehicle from observing the location or actions or law enforcement personnel within or adjacent to a law enforcement vehicle.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is the provision of an LED warning signal light which may be easily positioned upon the dash board of an aircraft or a law enforcement vehicle.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is the provision of an LED alley light which may easily adapted for use within existing light bar for an emergency vehicle.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is the provision of a warning signal light and/or SIT-TEL pulsed light LED communication system which may be easily customized by the user via the use of a microprocessor/controller.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is that the warning signal light is capable of transmitting a SIT-TEL pulsed light signal.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is that the warning light signal includes a controller which is constructed and arranged to generate a series of SIT-TEL pulsed light signal packets where each packet includes a recognizable set of information.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is that the warning signal light includes a receptor which is capable of receipt and recognition of pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal packets for translation and/or transfer to a controller for processing.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is that the controller is constructed and arranged to interpret and process received SIT-TEL LED pulsed light signal packets for generation of a responsive series of pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals and/or packets to transmit information to a receptor.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is the provision of a pulsed LED source functioning as a carrier of information as a replacement for radio frequency transmissions.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is the provision of an aviation rotating or flashing beacon which may operate for an extended period of time with a battery power source and/or solar cell power source without the receipt of power from an aircraft.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is the provision of an OPTICOM intersection clearing device which may operate for an extended period of time with a battery power source and/or solar cell power source without the receipt of power via an electric wire or cable.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is the provision of an LED railroad crossing warning light which may operate for an extended period of time with a battery power source and/or solar cell power source without the necessity for receipt of power from a power line.

Still another principal advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED communication system for a license plate which may operate for an extended period of time with a battery power source and/or solar cell power source without the receipt of power from a vehicle electric system.

Yet another advantage of the invention is the provision of an LED support member having an array of colored LED s and a controller capable of selectively illuminating the LED s of the same color to produce a single or mixed colored light signal.

Still another advantage of the invention is the provision of a light emitting diode support member having LED s disposed about at least two sides and a controller capable of producing light signals on each side which are independent and/or different from each other.

Still another advantage of the invention is the provision of an LED support member which may be easily connectable to an aircraft, vessel, marine buoy, a railroad crossing sign, a street semaphore, emergency vehicle, including but not limited to automobiles, ambulances, trucks, motorcycles, snowmobiles, and/or any other type of vehicle in which warning signal or emergency lights are utilized.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision a microprocessor/controller which is in electrical communication with the LED light sources to selectively activate individual LED s to produce a flashing, strobe, alternating, rotating, oscillating, variable, encoded, modulated and/or pulsating warning light signals or combination warning light signals.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a warning signal light having LED technology which includes an array, a single row or a solitary LED light source mounted to a light support.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a strip warning signal light having LED technology where a plurality of strip LED light supports may be affixed in surrounding engagement to the exterior of an aircraft, vessel, sign, or emergency vehicle.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a warning signal light having a controller in electrical communication with each individual light source for the provision of a modulated light intensity to the light source to provide various desired patterns or combinations of patterns of illumination.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of an LED light source where a single LED light source or an array of LED light sources may be rotated, and simultaneously a reflective device may be rotated, to provide a warning signal light.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a rotatable or stationary reflector or culminator which may include transparent and/or reflective sections.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a conical reflector which may include concave and/or convex reflective surfaces to assist in the reflection of light emitted from an LED light source.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of an LED light support having a longitudinal dimension and a single row of LED s which provide a desired type of warning light signal.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of an LED light support having a lens cover attached to the frame to minimize water penetration or contamination exposure into the interior of the frame.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of an LED warning signal light having plug-in connectors for coupling to an electrical power source for an emergency vehicle such as a cigarette lighter receptacle.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of an LED warning signal light having at least one illumination face including a plurality of colored LED light sources.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of an oscillating LED intersection clearing light for communication to traffic adjacent to an intersection as to the presence of an emergency vehicle and/or emergency situation.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED light system where the light intensity may be modulated by the controller to produce a pulsating light source used to transmit information.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED light system which is coupled to a controller and a low voltage power supply such as a battery.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED light system which may be powered through the use of a rechargeable solar cell.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED light system having a controller for regulating a pulsating SIT-TEL LED light signal and an LED pulsating light receiver which is connected to a marine vessel.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED light source having a controller for regulating a pulsating SIT-TEL LED light signal and an LED pulsating light receiver which is connected to a motor vehicle license plate.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED light source having a controller for regulating a pulsating SIT-TEL LED light signal and an LED pulsating light receiver which is connected to an aircraft.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED light source having a controller for regulating a pulsating SIT-TEL LED light signal and an LED pulsating light receiver which replaces the rotating beacon and/or anti-collision light for an aircraft.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL pulsed light system having a controller for regulating a pulsating LED light signal and an LED pulsating SIT-TEL light receiver which is connected to an airport taxi light.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED light system having a controller for regulating a pulsating SIT-TEL LED light signal and an LED pulsating light receiver which is connected to an airport approach light.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED light system having a controller for regulating a pulsating SIT-TEL LED light signal and an LED pulsating light receiver which is connected to an airport runway light.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED light source having a controller for regulating a pulsating SIT-TEL LED light signal and an LED pulsating light receiver which is connected to a structure or tower as an anti-collision light.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED light source having a controller for regulating a pulsating SIT-TEL LED light signal and an LED pulsating light receiver which is connected to a railroad crossing sign.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED light source having a controller for regulating a pulsating SIT-TEL LED light signal and an LED pulsating light receiver which is connected to the engine and caboose of a train.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED light source having a controller for regulating a pulsating SIT-TEL LED light signal and an LED pulsating light receiver which is connected to airport baggage and/or fueling vehicles.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED pulsating light system which includes an LED light source, and controller for regulating pulsed light signals, an LED pulsed light receiver, a signal converter, and a signal processor.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED pulsating light system having a controller having a processor programmed for the performance of a handshake protocol during the transmission and/or receipt of a pulsed light signal used to communicate information.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED pulsating light system which may generate a pulsed light signal over a wide variety of light wavelengths.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED pulsating light system having a selection mechanism permitting convenient alteration of frequencies or wavelengths of transmitted and/or received pulsated light signals.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED pulsating light system having a scanner for automatic searches for identification of transmissions of pulsated light signals generated at varying wavelengths and/or frequencies.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED pulsating light system having a controller coupled to a visual warning light and/or audible alarm.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED pulsating light system having a selection switch to regulate the provision of a focused directional pulsed light signal or a nondirectional pulsed light signal.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED pulsating light system having a controller which regulates the transmission of thousands of pulsed light signals over a time interval of one second.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED pulsating light system which has a controller which in turn includes prestored information for transmission as a pulsed light signal for detection, processing, and interpretation by a remote LED pulsating light receiver.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED pulsating light system which may be coupled to an LED warning light system for transmission of messages.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED pulsating light system including a modulating light source which emits 20 to 60 cycles of light signals per minute.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED pulsating light system providing modulated pulsating light at a frequency of 80 Hz or higher.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL LED pulsating light system which may transmit an encrypted pulsated LED light signal.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a SIT-TEL pulsating LED light system which may transmit a pulsed LED light signal in the visible and non-visible spectrum.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the simultaneous communication of SIT-TEL LED pulsed light communication signals to a plurality of units of soldiers without the use of radio transmissions.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the simultaneous provision of SIT-TEL LED pulsed light communication signals and illumination to enhance visibility within a theater of operations.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a back-up communication system for soldiers in the event of voluntary or non-voluntary radio transmission interruption.

Still another advantage of the present invention is provision of a flare having a SIT-TEL LED pulsed light communication system which may transmit and receive information to be passed on to troops within an operational theater.

Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of an easily transportable and concealable receiver/transmitter of SIT-TEL LED pulsed light signals for use by troops.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a partial perspective view of an emergency vehicle equipped with a light bar containing warning signal lights according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a partial front elevation view of an emergency vehicle equipped with a light bar containing warning signal lights according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a warning signal light attached to a gyrator according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a warning signal light according to an embodiment of the invention depicting the sequential activation of columns of light-emitting diodes (LED's).

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a warning signal light according to an embodiment of the invention depicting sequential activation of rows of LED's;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a warning light signal according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a warning light signal according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a warning light signal according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a warning light signal according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a warning light signal according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIGS. 11A,11B, and11C are schematic diagrams of one embodiment of the controller circuitry in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a warning signal light according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 13 is a perspective detailed view of a warning signal light attached to the interior of a windshield of an emergency vehicle;

FIG. 14 is a side plan view of a warning signal light mounted to an interior surface of an emergency vehicle window having angularly offset individual LED light sources;

FIG. 15 is an environmental view of a warning signal light as engaged to a remote support device such as a tripod;

FIG. 16 is a detailed isometric view of a prior art xenon strobe tube and standard mounting base;

FIG. 17 is a detailed isometric view of the replacement LED light source and standard mounting base;

FIG. 18 is a detailed isometric view of a prior art incandescent lamp light source and standard mounting base;

FIG. 19 is a detailed isometric view of a replacement LED lamp and standard mounting base;

FIG. 20 is a front view of a standard prior art halogen light source mounted in a rotating reflector;

FIG. 21 is a detailed rear view of a rotating reflector mechanism;

FIG. 22 is a detailed front view of the LED light source mounted to a rotating reflector;

FIG. 23 is a detailed front view of a replacement LED light source;

FIG. 24 is a detailed side view of a replacement LED light source;

FIG. 25 is a detailed isometric partially exploded view of a replacement LED light source and cover;

FIG. 26 is a detailed isometric view of a reflector or culminator;

FIG. 27 is a detailed isometric view of a culminator cup;

FIG. 28 is an alternative cross-sectional side view of a culminator cup;

FIG. 29 is an alternative cross-sectional side view of a culminator cup;

FIG. 30 is an alternative cross-sectional side view of a culminator cup;

FIG. 31 is an exploded isometric view of an alternative culminator assembly and modular LED light source;

FIG. 32 is an alternative partial cut away isometric view of an alternative culminator assembly and LED light source;

FIG. 33 is an environmental view of an emergency vehicle having strip LED light sources;

FIG. 34 is an alternative detailed partial cut away view of a strip LED light source;

FIG. 35 is an alternative detailed view of an LED light source having sectors;

FIG. 36 is an alternative detailed view of a circuit board or LED mounting surface having heat sink wells;

FIG. 37 is an alternative detailed isometric view of a reflector assembly;

FIG. 38 is an alternative cross-sectional side view of the frame of a reflector assembly ofFIG. 37;

FIG. 39 is an alternative cross-sectional side view of a frame of a reflector assembly ofFIG. 37;

FIG. 40 is an alternative detailed side view of a reflector assembly;

FIG. 41 is an alternative detailed isometric view of a reflector assembly;

FIG. 42 is an alternative detailed side view of a reflector assembly;

FIG. 43 is a graphical representation of a modulated or variable light intensity curve;

FIG. 44 is an alternative detailed partial cross-sectional side view of a reflector assembly;

FIG. 45 is a partial phantom line top view of the reflector assembly taken along the line of45-45 ofFIG. 44;

FIG. 46 is an alternative graphical representation of a modulated or variable light intensity curve;

FIG. 47 is an alternative isometric view of a reflector assembly;

FIG. 48 is a detailed back view of an individual LED light source;

FIG. 49 is a detailed front view of an individual LED light source;

FIG. 50 is a detailed end view of one embodiment of a reflector assembly;

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of a modular warning light signal according to an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 52 is a block diagram of an electrical schematic of an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 53 is a block diagram of an electrical schematic of an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 54 is a block diagram of an electrical schematic of an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 55 is a block diagram of an electrical schematic of an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 56 is a detailed front view of a replacement LED light source;

FIG. 57 is a detailed side view of a replacement LED light source;

FIG. 58 is a detail partially exploded isometric view of a replacement LED light source and cover;

FIG. 59 is an environmental view of an LED personal warning signal light positioned on a dashboard of an emergency vehicle and electrically coupled to a power source such as cigarette lighter receptacle;

FIG. 60 is a detail isometric view of the LED personal warning signal light and electrical coupler;

FIG. 61 is an environmental view of an LED take-down light source and an LED alley light source mounted to the light bar of an emergency vehicle;

FIG. 62 is a top environmental view of an LED take-down light source and an LED alley light source mounted to the light bar of an emergency vehicle;

FIG. 63 is an isometric view of an LED light bar for an emergency vehicle;

FIG. 64 is a side view of an LED light bar for an emergency vehicle;

FIG. 65 is a cross-sectional top view of the take-down and alley light;

FIG. 66 is an exploded isometric view of the take-down light and alley light;

FIG. 67 is a front view of a traffic semaphore and pulsed light OPTICOM system;

FIG. 67A is an environmental view of an emergency vehicle and pulsed light OPTICOM system;

FIG. 67B is an alternative top environmental view of an emergency vehicle and pulsed light system;

FIG. 68 is an environmental view of an LED OPTICOM SIT-TEL pulsating light signal between two vehicles;

FIG. 69 is an environmental detail view of a license plate SIT-TEL LED pulsating light signal system;

FIG. 70 is a partial cross-sectional top view of a license plate SIT-TEL LED pulsating light signal system;

FIG. 71 is an environmental view of an LED SIT-TEL pulsating light signal in an airport environment;

FIG. 72 is an environmental view of an LED SIT-TEL pulsating light signal and snowplow;

FIG. 73 is an environmental view of an LED SIT-TEL pulsating light signal and marine environment;

FIG. 74 is an environmental view of an LED SIT-TEL pulsating light signal and urban environment;

FIG. 75 is an environmental view of an LED SIT-TEL pulsating light signal and railroad crossing;

FIG. 76 is an detail view of an LED SIT-TEL pulsating light signal and railroad crossing indicator;

FIG. 77 is an environmental partial cross-sectional side view of an LED OPTICOM SIT-TEL pulsating light signal and subway environment;

FIG. 78 is a partial cut away view of a flare having an LED SIT-TEL communication system;

FIG. 79 is a perspective view of a flare having an LED SIT-TEL communication system;

FIG. 80 is an environmental view of a flare having an LED SIT-TEL communication system;

FIG. 81 is an environmental view of a dashboard and pulsed light signaling system engaged to an emergency vehicle;

FIG. 82 is an alternative partial phantom line view of a pulsed light signaling system;

FIG. 83 is an alternative partial phantom line view of a pulsed light signaling system;

FIG. 84 is an environmental view of the controller of the pulsed light signaling system within the cockpit of an aircraft;

FIG. 85 is a detail alternative view of the hand held pulsed light signaling system;

FIG. 86 is a detail view of the SIT-TEL pulsed light communication system;

FIG. 87A is an alternative detail view of the SIT-TEL pulsed light communication system;

FIG. 87B is an alternative detail view of the SIT-TEL pulsed light communication system;

FIG. 87C is an alternative detail view of the SIT-TEL pulsed light communication system; and

FIGS. 88A-C constitute a block diagram of the operation of the first, second, and third controllers within the SIT-TEL pulsed light communication system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

A warning signal light according to the principles of the invention is indicated generally herein asnumeral10.FIGS. 1 and 2 depictlight bar70 mounted to anemergency vehicle104.Light bar70, includesbase72, mounting means74,cover82, and warning signal lights10. Also included inlight bar70, may be gyrators90, which may be used to impart motion to warning signal lights10.

Referring toFIGS. 3 and 9, warningsignal light10, compriseslight support12,LED light sources30, controller50 (shown inFIG. 11), and connectingportion40, for attaching thewarning signal light10, tolight bar70, orgyrator90. Thewarning signal light10, operates to create a warning signal for use by anemergency vehicle104, by selectively activatinglight sources30 or by selectively activating combinations and/or patterns oflight sources30 by usingcontroller50. Alternatively, warningsignal light10, may be formed of one or more solitaryLED light sources30.

Light sources

30, are preferably light emitting diodes (LED s) and are generally arranged in alignedcolumns32, and/orrows34, as shown inFIGS. 7 and 9. Each of the light emitting diodes (LED s) may haveshoulder portion38,adjacent LED support12, anddome36. LED s30, are situated to be in electric communication withcontroller50, and a power supply, a battery, or power source. The use of light emitting diodes (LED s) to replace traditional halogen, incandescent, or gaseous discharge xenon lamps reduces heat generation, current draw, and electromagnetic emissions, while increasing lamp life and producing a more true output light color.

FIGS. 11A,11B, and11C show an embodiment ofcontroller50 capable of selectively activatingcolumns32,rows34, individual or combinations ofindividual LED s30.Controller50 generally comprisesmicroprocessor52 andcircuitry53 and is contained within, attached to, or an element of,LED support12. It is envisioned thatcontroller50 may be programmed by anexternal controller55 and powered through cable R.

In one embodiment,controller50 generally comprises circuit board or LED mountingsurface having microprocessor52 attached to a low voltage power supply, battery, orelectrical source56.Microprocessor52 is configured throughcircuitry53 to selectively activatecolumns32,rows34, or one or moreindividual LED s30. Transistors Q9 and Q10 are in electronic communication withmicroprocessor52, power supply, battery, orelectrical source56, and their respective columns32.9 and32.10 of LED's30.Columns32 of LED's30 are connected to transistors Q1-Q8, which are in turn connected tomicroprocessor52 through resistors R1-R8.Microprocessor52 is capable of selectively activating transistors Q1-Q8 to allow current flowing through transistors Q9 and Q-10 to activate the selectedcolumn32 of LED's30. This circuit is capable of producing any one or more of the different types of light signals as earlier identified.

In one embodiment, a rotating or oscillating light signal may be established by the sequential illumination ofentire columns32 of LED's30 by turning a desired number of columns on and then sequentially illuminating oneadditional column32 while turning anothercolumn32 off. Alternatively, the rotating or oscillating warning light signal may be created by selectively activatingcolumns32 ofLED s30. The following algorithm may be used to provide a counterclockwise revolving light signal (FIG. 9):

1) column A is activated at 0% duty cycle (column A 0%), column B 0%/, column C 0%, column D 0%, column E 0%, column F 0%/, column G 0%, column H 0%, column I 0%, and column J 0%;
2) column A 25%, column B 0%, column C 0%, column D 0%, column E 0%, column F 0%, column G 0%, column H 0%, column I 0%, and column J 0%;
3)column A 50%, column B 25%, column C 0%, column D 0%/, column E 0%, column F 0%, column G 0%, column H 0%, column I 0%, and column J 0%;
4) column A 75%,column B 50%, column C 25%, column D 0%, column E 0%, column F 0%, column G 0%, column H 0%, column I 0%, and column J 0%;
5)column A 100%, column B 75%,column C 50%, column D 25%, column E 0%, column F 0%, column G 0%, column H 0%, column I 0%, and column J 0%;
6)column A 100%,column B 100%, column C 75%,column D 50%, column E 25% column, column F 0%, column G 0%, column H 0%, column I 0%, and column J 0%;
7) column A 75%, column B 100a%,column C 100%, column D 75%,column E 50%, F 25%, column G 0%, column H 0%, column I 0%, and column J 0%;
8)column A 50%, column B 75%,column C 100%,column D 100%, column E 75%,column F 50%, column G 25%, column H 0%, column I 0%, and column J 0%;
9) column A 25%,column B 50%, column C 75%,column D 100%,column E 100%, column F 75%,column G 50%, column H 25%, column I 0%, and column J 0%;
10) column A 0%, column B 25%,column C 50%, column D 75%,column E 100%,column F 100%, column G 75%,column H 50%, column I 25%, and column J 0%;
11) column A 0%, column B 0%, column C 25%,column D 50%, column E 75%,column F 100%,column G 100%, column H 75%, column I 50%, and column J 25%;
12) column A 0%, column B 0%, column C 0%, column D 25%,column E 50%, column F 75%,column G 100%,column H 100%, column I 75%, andcolumn J 50%;
13) column A 0%, column B 0%, column C 0%, column D 0%, column E 25%,column F 50%, column G 75%,column H 100%, column I 100%, and column J 75%;
14) column A 0%, column B 0%, column C 0%, column D 0%, column E 0%, column F 25%,column G 50%, column H 75%, column I 100%, andcolumn J 100%;
15) column A 0%, column B 0%, column C 0%, column D 0%, column E 0%, column F 0%, column G 25%,column H 50%, column I 75%, andcolumn J 100%;
16) column A 0%, column B 0%, column C 0%, column D 0%, column E 0%, column F 0%, column G 0%, column H 25%, column I 50%, and column J 75%;
17) column A 0%, column B 0%, column C 0%, column D 0%, column E 0%, column F 0%, column G 0%, column H 0%, column I 25%, andcolumn J 50%;
18) column A 0%, column B 0%, column C 0%, column D 0%, column E 0%, column F 0%, column G 0%, column H 0%, column I 0%, and column J 25%;
19) column A 0%, column B 0%, column C 0%, column D 0%, column E 0%, column F 0%, column G 0%, column H 0%, column I 0%, and column J 0%;
20) return to step 1).

A clockwise revolving light signal may be created by performing steps 1-19 in descending order then repeating the steps. An oscillating light signal may be created by performing: (a) steps 7 through 16 in ascending order; (b) steps 7 through 16 in descending order; and (c) repeating (a) and (b).

A second embodiment ofcontroller50 provides a means for activating LED s30 individually to allow for greater flexibility in the type of warning light signal created. This embodiment of the invention is capable of displaying information in different colors or patterns. Depending on the size of the display, it may be necessary to scroll the symbols or characters across the display to accommodate for a larger visual appearance. It is envisioned that the mirror image of patterns, symbols, or characters could be displayed making the message easily readable by drivers viewing the signal in a rear view mirror. It is also envisioned that the warning light signal could display arrows indicating a direction a vehicle is to travel or other images as shown inFIG. 2. In addition, combinations of warning signal lights, direction arrows, and other information carrying signals or images, may be displayed simultaneously by the invention.

LED support

12 is envisioned to have several embodiments. One embodiment, shown inFIG. 9, consists of apanel14 havingfront16, back18, top20, bottom22 and sides24. LED s30 are arranged onfront16, withdomes36 extending therefrom, incolumns32 androws34. LED s30 are in electric communication withcontroller50 which may be contained or sealed withinLED support12 to provide protection from the elements.

Another embodiment ofwarning signal light10 is depicted inFIG. 10. Here, thebacks18 of twopanels14 are attached together to allow for a light signal to be produced on two sides. The twopanels14

form LED support

12. Alternatively, it is envisioned that asingle panel14 having LED s arranged aboutfront16 and back18 could be used as well.

FIGS. 6 and 8 show further embodiments ofwarning signal light10. InFIG. 8,panels14 are used to form anLED support12 having four sides and generally shaped as squared.FIG. 6 showspanels14 connected to form anLED support12 having three sides and generally triangular in shape. In both embodiments, LED s30 are arranged about thefronts16 of thepanels14. It is further envisioned thatpanels14 may be integral to each other.

Yet another embodiment ofwarning signal light10, consists of aflexible panel14 andcontroller50 to allowLED support12 to be formed into various shapes.FIG. 5 showsLED support12 formed into a cylinder. Further variations include the use offlexible panels14 to form other shapes such as semicircles (FIG. 12) or to simply conform to a surface of an emergency vehicle (FIGS. 13 and 14). This embodiment is particularly useful for undercover vehicles which generally position the warning signal lights inside the vehicle. For example,panel14 could be attached to the front, rear, or side window of an undercover police vehicle.

Numerous other shapes could be formed frompanels14 including those formed from combinations of flat, curved, and flexible panels.

In each of the embodiments discussed above, the array of LED s30 may be formed of the same or differently colored LED s. Generally, eachcolumn32 orrow34 may consist of a series of differently colored LED s.Controller50 may be configured to select the color of the LED s to be illuminated forming the light signal. Accordingly, the user may select a blue, red, white, yellow, green, or amber color or any combination thereof to be used as the color of light signal. Alternatively, thewarning signal10 may be formed of individual LED s30 which may be selectively illuminated for generation of a particular type of light signal.

It is also envisioned that thecontroller50 may control warning signal lights10 having multiple sides (FIGS. 5,6,8, and10) such that each side is capable of producing warning light signals or combinations of warning light signals that are independent and/or different from those produced upon the other sides. For example, the squared shape warning signal light shown inFIG. 8 may produce or simulate a red revolving light on first side15.1, while second side15.2 is simultaneously producing a blue oscillating light, while third side15.3 is producing or simulating a stationary white light, and while fourth side15.4 is producing a white strobe light.

Another embodiment ofwarning signal light10 is depicted inFIGS. 1 and 2 aslight bar70 which extends fromdriver side100 topassenger side102 ofemergency vehicle104.Cover82 protectslight bar70 from the elements. Each side oflight bar70 may have LED s30 to produce or simulate warning light signals on each side ofemergency vehicle104. Furthermore,controller50 may be used to create multiple warning light signals on each side oflight bar70. For example,controller50 may create a simulated revolving blue light positioned atfront passenger side102 oflight bar70, oscillating white lights positioned atfront driver side100, and yellow arrows there between. Additional or alternative warning light signals may be produced out the back18 and sides oflight bar70. It is further envisioned thatlight bar70 may consist of a single light source, a single row of light sources or a large array of LED s30 across each side (not shown). This embodiment provides the largest display and, therefore, is best suited to display desired combinations of warning lights and images. It should be noted that the identified types of warning light signals, combinations and/or patterns of warning light signals, may also be reproduced through the illumination of a single row ofLED light sources30 and that the type of patterns previously identified are not intended to be exclusive in that an infinite variety of combinations and/or patterns are available for generation bycontroller50.

Mechanical rotation and oscillation of warning signal lights10 about axis “A” is possible by way of attachment togyrator90 depicted inFIG. 3.Gyrator90 mounted tolight bar70, generally comprises electric motors96 havingcables97.Gyrator90 is configured to receive connectingportion40 ofwarning signal light10.Cable97 is preferably connected to a power supply and either anexternal controller55 orcontroller50.

Gyrator

90 may be capable of rotating or oscillatingwarning signal light10 about a single or dual axis of rotation “A”.FIG. 3 shows gyrator90 configured to rotate or oscillate warningsignal light10 about a vertical axis “A” by way of motor96.1 and oscillate warningsignal light10 about a horizontal axis “A” by way of motor96.2. Rotation or oscillation ofwarning signal light10 about vertical axis “A” is accomplished through direct attachment of connecting portion to motor96.1. Oscillation of warningsignal light10 about horizontal axis “A” is accomplished by attachingswivel arm99 to bracket99.1 and post99.2 which is mounted to motor96.2.

Alternative methods for imparting rotation or oscillation motion to warningsignal light10 may be accomplished through the use of electric motors, toothed gears, and worm gears. In addition, maintaining electrical communication between a power supply and anexternal controller55 with a revolving or oscillatingwarning signal light10 may be accomplished using brushes or other means without sacrificing the operation of thewarning signal light10.

In another embodiment as depicted inFIGS. 13 and 14,emergency vehicle104 may include a front orrear windshield106. The front orrear windshield106 is generally angularly offset with respect to the vehicle at an approximate angle of 45 degrees. In this embodiment, the mounting of apanel14 oflight sources30 in flush contact with the interior of a front orrear windshield106 may occur through the use ofangular offsets108 for thelight sources30 such that light is transmitted from thelight sources30 at a horizontal visual line (V) which is substantially parallel to the plane of a vehicle and not at an approximate angle of 45 degrees upward, which corresponds to the angle for the front orrear windshield106.

In this embodiment, the ease of visualization of a generated light signal is significantly enhanced by the downwardangular offsets108 which position thelight sources30 along parallel visual lines of sight (V). LED supports12 orpanels14 may then be positioned in any desired location within the interior of a vehicle in flush contact or proximate to the front orrear windshield106. Asuitable cable97 is required to provide electrical power for illumination of thelight sources30. It should be noted that the angle of incidence for theangular offsets108 may vary considerably dependent upon the make or model for the vehicle to include the warning signal lights10.

Thewarning signal light10 may be used upon an automobile, motorcycle, snowmobile, personal water craft, boat, truck, fire vehicle, helicopter, and/or any other type of vehicle receptive to the use of warning signal lights10. TheLED support12 orpanel14 may be mounted to the interior top dashboard of a vehicle proximate to thefront windshield106 or to the interior top rear dashboard proximate to therear windshield106 of a vehicle.

Mounting of alight support12 orpanel14 to either the front or rear dashboards may minimize the necessity for inclusion of angular offset108 for thelight sources30. The LED supports12 orpanels14 may be releasably affixed to the interior of the front orrear windshields106 via the use of suction cups, hook-and-loop fabric material such as Velcro, and/or any other releasable affixation mechanism. An individual may then adjust and reposition the location of thelight support12 orpanels14 anywhere within the interior of a vehicle as desired for maximization of visualization of the warning signal lights10.

In another alternative embodiment as depicted inFIG. 15, warningsignal light10 may function as a remote, revolving, or stationary beacon. In this embodiment,LED support12 orpanel14 is preferably releasably connected to atransportable support120 via the use of a bracket. Thetransportable support120 may be a tripod having telescoping legs or may be any other type of support. In this embodiment,LED light support12 orpanel14 is electrically connected to an elongateelectrical extension cable97 which may include any desired adapter for electrical connection to a power source which may be a vehicle. Theremote light support12 orpanel14 may also include plug-in adapters for electrical connection to any desired electrical power source other than a vehicle as is available. Alternatively, theLED light support12 orpanel14 may be electrically connected to a battery or rechargeable battery to provide power to theLED s30.

Thetransportable support120 may also includegyrator90 as earlier described to provide rotational or oscillatory motion for warningsignal light10. Acontroller50 having amicroprocessor52 may also be integral to, or in electrical communication with, LED's30 for the provision of multi-colored lights, one or more of the warning light signals or patterns or combinations of warning light signals as earlier described. In this embodiment, thewarning signal light10 may be physically separated from anemergency vehicle104 any desired distance to facilitate or enhance the safety of a potentially dangerous situation necessitating the use of a warning light. Further, a series of remote warning signal lights10 may be electrically coupled to each other for any desired distance to again facilitate the environmental safety of an emergency location.

FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of axenon lamp1.Xenon lamp1 has abase pedestal2 which is typically formed of rubber, plastic, or other insulating material.Base pedestal2 has atop surface3 which may support a glass tube4 which may have a looped curve such that an anode end and a cathode end are each supported on a top surface. The anode and cathode ends may be sealed and respective

electrical conductors

5 and6 may pass through the sealed ends and through thetop surface3. Atrigger wire7 may be helically wound about the exterior surface of the glass tube4 and the ends of thetrigger wire7 may be passed through thetop surface3 of thebase pedestal2 to form a third conductor on the underside of thebase pedestal2.

Base pedestal

2 may have an upper cylinder portion8 extending from a lower shoulder all of which may extend above thetop surface3. The upper cylindrical portion8 may include an upper shoulder9. A glass dome (not shown) may be sized to fit over thexenon lamp1 and glass tube4 for resting on the upper shoulder9. The glass dome may be formed of a transparent or silicate glass material capable of withstanding heat stress. The outer diameter of the glass dome is typically about one inch which is sized to fit through the conventional opening in a typical vehicle lamp fixture. The exterior glass dome surface typically has a much lower temperature during operation than the exterior surface of the glass tube4 forming a part of thexenon lamp1. The temperature drop between the glass tube4 and the glass dome facilitates the use of coloring of the dome to provide a colored lamp by virtue of the xenon light intensity passing through the colored dome acting as a filter.

Thexenon lamp1 is preferably aligned for insertion into aconventional opening248 of a light reflector260 (FIGS. 20 and 21). Thelight receptacle opening248 in thelight reflector260 is typically about one inch in diameter; and the glass dome andbase pedestal2 are sized to fit within thelight receptacle opening248. Thexenon lamp1 in its final construction may include a cover plate (not shown) affixed over the bottom opening of thebase pedestal2 for affixation to alight reflector260 via the use of screws which pass through the screw apertures9.1. The anode, cathode, andtrigger wire7 traverse thebase pedestal2 and may include a plug9.2 which is adapted for engagement to a controller/power supply for a motor vehicle.

Thelight reflector260 may be a conventional light reflector of the type found in vehicles having a clear plastic or glass lens cover. The glass or lens cover may be fitted over the front edge of thereflector260 in a manner which is conventional for vehicle lamps. Thelight reflector260 may have a parabolic or other shape. Thelight reflector260 may be mounted to a motor for rotation about a vertical axis. In this embodiment the light source/replacement lamp200 may be integrally connected or affixed to thereflector260 for simultaneous rotation about the vertical axis during use of the motor. (FIGS. 17,20,21,22) Alternatively, the light source/replacement lamp200 may be fixed proximate to the vertical axis where thelight reflector260 is rotated around thestationary replacement lamp200 to provide for the visual appearance of a rotational light source.

In operation, theLED replacement lamp200 may be constructed as a replacement part for a conventional incandescent or xenon gaseous discharge lamp. Thestandard mounting base204 andLED support assembly212 may be sized to readily fit into the same light opening as an incandescent lamp would require, although it is apparent the electrical driving circuit for theLED replacement lamp200 may require modifications to accommodate the LED operating principles.

LEDwarning signal lamp200 may be used in a variety of locations about a vehicle. The use of the LEDwarning signal lamps200 are not necessarily limited to positioning adjacent to the head lamp or headlight, tail light, or turn signal illumination devices. The LEDwarning signal lamp200 may be used as a rotational, pulsating, or oscillating reflector light within the interior, adjacent to a front, rear, and/or side window of a vehicle.

It is also envisioned that thecontroller50 may control warningsignal lights200 independently of one another such that eachwarning signal lamp200 is capable of producing warning light signals which are independent and/or different from those produced at another location about anemergency vehicle104. For example, a front left location may produce a red colored light while simultaneously a front right location may produce an amber colored light and a right rear location may produce a green colored light and a left rear location may produce a blue colored light. Thecontroller50 may then alternate the color of the light illuminated from thewarning signal lamp200 in each area. Alternatively, thecontroller50 may sequentially activate warningsignal lamps200 positioned about anemergency vehicle104 to simultaneously produce a desired color or alternating sequence of colors. Thecontroller50 may simultaneously illuminate all LEDwarning signal lamps200 to produce a flashing or strobe light which may be particularly useful in certain emergency situations. Thecontroller50 may also selectively illuminate individual LEDwarning signal lamps200 in any desired color, pattern, and/or combination.

Referring toFIG. 17 in detail, anLED replacement lamp200 is depicted. In this embodiment theLED replacement lamp200 includes astandard mounting base204 which includes atop surface206. Extending upwardly from thetop surface206 is an uppercylindrical portion208 which includes anupper shoulder210. Extending upwardly from theupper shoulder210 is anLED support assembly212 which includes one or moreLED lamp modules213. TheLED lamp modules213 may be of the same or different colors. Awire202 is in electrical communication with the plurality ofLED lamp modules213 to provide for electrical communication with thecontroller50 to individually activate or illuminateLED lamp modules213. A plug-inconnector40 may be coupled to thewire202 for engagement to thecontroller50 and/or power source of anemergency vehicle104.

TheLED replacement lamp200 is adapted to be positioned in a one inch light receptacle opening248 (approximate size) which has been previously placed through the backside of areflector assembly260. TheLED replacement lamp200 is used to replace a xenon gaseous discharge lamp or incandescent lamp as previously mounted to a base which is inserted intoopening248 in areflector assembly260. Illumination of one or more individualLED lamp modules213, as mounted in thereflector assembly260, enables the reflector assembly/lens to take on the appearance of a warning signal or emergency signaling lamp.

Referring toFIG. 18, an incandescent lamp or quartz halogen H-2 lamp is depicted and in general is indicated by the numeral220. Theincandescent lamp assembly220 is formed of astandard mounting base222. Avertical post224 extends upwardly from thestandard mounting base222. The incandescentlight bulb226 is mounted in thevertical post224. Thevertical post224 may extend below thestandard mounting base222 to provide for electrical coupling with awire228 which includes astandard pin connector230. Thestandard pin connector230 is adapted for electrical communication to a power supply and/orcontroller50 for activation of theincandescent lamp assembly220. Theincandescent lamp assembly220 may be stationary or mounted in a rotationallight reflector260. Thelight bulb226 may be a halogen H-2, 55 watt, lamp.

As depicted inFIG. 19,LED replacement lamp200 is adapted to replace theincandescent lamp assembly220 in a stationary or rotationallight reflector260. TheLED replacement lamp200 as depicted inFIG. 19 includes astandard mounting base234 and avertical post236. Thevertical post236 may extend upwardly from thestandard mounting base234 and may alternatively extend below thestandard mounting base234. AnLED mounting area238 may be integral or affixed to the upper section of thevertical post236. TheLED mounting area238 includes a plurality of individualLED module lamps240 which may be illuminated individually, sequentially, or in combination with other light sources.

The individualLED module lamps240 are in electrical communication with awire242 which includes an integralstandard wire connector244. Thewire connector244 is adapted to be plugged into acontroller50 or power supply. Communication is thereby provided for selective illumination of the individualLED module lamps240. A group of individualLED module lamps240 may be mounted in theLED mounting area238. TheLED replacement lamp200 is adapted to replace theincandescent lamp assembly220 or a xenon gaseous discharge lamp assembly base ofFIG. 16 or18. The purpose of the LEDreplacement lamp assembly200 is to replace existing xenon gaseous discharge and incandescent lamps with new LED technology while simultaneously utilizing existing standard bases in a standard lamp enclosure. For example, an individual may choose to replace a halogen “H-2” 55 watt lamp with an “LED-2” lamp in an existing rotating light fixture with no other structural modifications, yet achieving the advantages of less power consumption, greater reliability, easier installation, less RF emissions (which reduces interference with radio or electronic equipment), cooler operating temperatures, simplified circuitry, longer life, greater durability and duty capability, and simultaneously providing pure and easier-to-see color light output.

As depicted inFIG. 20, a rotationallight reflector246 is disclosed. Therotational light fixture246 includes areflector assembly260 having astandard opening248. The incandescentlight assembly220 is positioned in thestandard opening248 for extension of thevertical post224 outwardly from thereflector assembly260 for positioning of thelight bulb226 in a desired location. Light emitted from the standardhalogen light bulb226 reflects off the parabolic-shapedreflector assembly260 for transmission of light in a direction as indicated by arrows AA for visualization by individuals.Reflector assembly260 andlight source226 may be rotated via the use ofgears250 which are driven by electrical motors not shown. In this manner, therotational light fixture246 including thereflector assembly260 may be rotated at any desired velocity as preferred by an individual.

As may be seen inFIG. 21, a rear or back view of therotational light fixture246 is provided. As may be seen inFIG. 21, the light source is positioned in thestandard opening248. Thewire228 is in electrical communication with the light source and is connected via thestandard pin connector230 to a power source.

As depicted inFIG. 22, an alternative rotationallight fixture252 is depicted.Rotational light fixture252 includes areflector assembly260 which may be parabolic in shape for the transmission of light along a common axis as depicted by arrows BB for visualization by an individual. In this embodiment, the individualLED module lamps240 may be positioned to the front of thereflector assembly260 through the use of a frame254. The frame254 may be integral or connected to agear250. Thegear250 may be driven by a motor for rotation of thelight fixture252. The individualLED module lamps240 are in electrical communication with a power source not shown.

Therotational light fixture252 may also be adapted for the provision of an oscillating or pulsating warning light signal.

An alternativereplacement LED lamp200 is depicted inFIGS. 23-25. In this embodiment theLED replacement lamp200 includes astandard mounting base270. Thestandard mounting base270 also includes a plurality ofteeth272. Theteeth272 are adapted for mating coupling with gears integral to a motor and/orreflector260, or rotationallight fixture246 to facilitate rotation and/or oscillation of thereplacement LED lamp200. Thestandard mounting base270 also includes atop surface274 opposite to theteeth272.

Anupper cylinder portion276 is adjacent to thetop surface274. Theupper cylinder portion276 includes anupper shoulder278. Extending upwardly from theupper shoulder278 is a circuit board, LED mounting surface, orsupport280 which includes one or moreLED illumination sources282. TheLED illumination sources282 may be of the same or different colors. Awire284 is in electrical communication with theLED illumination sources282 to provide for communication and contact with thecontroller50 for combination and/or individual illumination of theLED illumination sources282. A standard plug-in connector may be integral to thewire284 to facilitate coupling engagement to thecontroller50 and/or power source for avehicle104.

The circuit board orLED mounting surface280 is adapted to include afirst side286 and anopposite side288. A plurality ofLED illumination sources282 are disposed on both thefirst side286 and theopposite side288 of thereplacement lamp200.

A glass dome orprotector290 is adapted for positioning over the circuit board orLED mounting surface280 for sealing engagement to thetop surface274 of thestandard mounting base270. Theglass dome290 may be formed of transparent plastic material or a transparent or silicate glass material capable of withstanding heat stress. Theglass dome290 protects the circuit board orLED mounting surface280 and theLED illumination sources282 from contamination and from exposure to moisture during use of thereplacement lamp200. In this regard, the sealinglip292 of theglass dome290 is securely affixed to thetop surface274 to effectuate sealing engagement therebetween. The outer diameter of theglass dome290 is about one inch which is sized to fit within theconventional opening248 in a typical lamp fixture orreflector assembly260.

Thereplacement lamp200 depicted inFIGS. 23,24, and25 is also adapted to be positioned in a one inchlight receptacle opening248 which has been placed into areflector assembly260. Illumination of one or more individualLED illumination sources282 as disposed on the circuit board orLED mounting surface280 enables thereplacement lamp200 to take on the appearance of a warning signal or emergency signaling lamp.

The replacement lamp as depicted inFIGS. 23,24, and25 may alternatively permit thecircuit board280 to extend below theupper shoulder278 to facilitate affixation and positioning relative to thestandard mounting base270.

Thecontroller50 may regulate the illumination of theLED light sources282 individually, or in combination, to provide a desired warning lighting effect for thereplacement lamp200. Also, thecontroller50 may illuminate theLED light sources282 individually, or in combination, independently with respect to thefirst side286 and theopposite side288 to provide different warning light effects to be observed by an individual dependant upon the location of the person relative to the light source. Thecontroller50 may also simultaneously or independently regulate the light intensity for theLED illumination sources282 to provide for a pulsating, modulated or variable light intensity for observation by an individual.

In an alternative embodiment, the LEDwarning signal lamps10 orLED replacement lamps200 may be electrically coupled to acontroller50 which in turn is used to provide a modulated light intensity for the light source. A modulated light intensity enables the provision of various light output or patterns of illumination for creation of a plurality of visually distinct warning light signals without the use of mechanical devices. In these embodiments, thecontroller50 illuminates selectedlight sources282 and thecontroller50 may also regulate and/or modulate the duty cycle for thelight sources282, thereby varying the intensity of the observed light. In addition, thecontroller50 may modulate the duty cycle for the LEDwarning signal lamps10 orLED replacement lamps200 in accordance with a sine wave pattern having a range of 0 to full intensity. At the instant of full intensity, thecontroller50 may also signal or regulate an illumination burst for observation by an individual. Thecontroller50 operating to regulate and/or modulate the light intensity for thewarning signal lamps10 orLED replacement lamps200 in conjunction with illumination and non-illumination of selectedlight source282 may establish one or more of the types of light signals identified herein.

Thecontroller50 may also regulate the modulated light intensity for the provision of a unique variable intensity warning light signal. The unique variable intensity light source is not required to cycle through a zero intensity phase. It is anticipated that in this embodiment that the range of intensity will cycle from any desired level between zero to full intensity. A range of light intensity may be provided between thirty percent to full intensity and back to thirty percent as regulated by thecontroller50. An irregular pattern of variable power intensity may be utilized to create a desired type of warning light effect. In addition, thecontroller50 may also sequentially illuminateadjacent columns32 to provide a unique variable rotational, alternating, oscillating, pulsating, flashing, and/or combination variable rotational, alternating, pulsating, oscillating, or flashing visual warning light effects. A pulsating warning light signal may therefore be provided through the use of modulated light intensity to create a varying visual illumination or intensity effect. Thecontroller50 may also modulate the light intensity for any combination of

light sources

30 or282 to provide a distinctive or unique type of warning light signal.

The use of acontroller50 to provide a modulated light intensity for a light source may be implemented in conjunction withreplacement lamps200, flexible circuit boards having LEDlight sources30, paneled circuit boards or LED mounting surfaces having LEDlight sources30, light bars70 having LEDlight sources30, a cylindrical, square, rectangular, or triangular-shaped circuit boards having LEDlight sources30 and/or any other type or shape of LED light sources including but not limited to the embodiments described herein.

Further, thecontroller50 may be utilized to simultaneously provide modulated or variable light intensity to different and/or independent sections, areas, and/orsectors326 of a light source (FIG. 35). Also, thecontroller50 may be utilized to simultaneously provide modulated or variable light intensity to different and/or independent sectors, areas, and/orsections326 of the forward facing side or rearward facing side of a light support orlight bar70 for the provision of different warning light signals or a different warning light effects on each side. In this embodiment it is not required that the forward facing and rearward facing sides of the light support orlight bar70 emit the identical visual patterns of illuminatedlight sources30. Thecontroller50 may regulate and modulate the variable light intensity of any desiredsector326 of the forward facing side independently from the rearward facing side of the light support orlight bar70. An infinite variety of patterns and/or combinations of patterns of warning light signals may be provided for the forward facing side and the rearward facing side of the light support orlight bar70.

The modulated light intensity may be regulated by thecontroller50 to create a unique warning light signal within asingle sector326 or in conjunction with multiple separated oradjacent sectors326 oflight bar70 or light support for the provision of any desired composite emergency warning light signal. All individualLED light sources30 within alight bar70 or light support may be simultaneously exposed to incrementally increased modulated light intensity to provide for an incremental increase in illumination. An illumination burst may be provided at anytime during the incremental increase of illumination. The modulation of the light intensity in conjunction with the incremental increase in illumination of all LEDlight sources30 withinlight bar70 or light support may provide the appearance of rotation of a warning light signal when observed by an individual. The illumination of the individuallight sources30 may then be incrementally decreased. The light intensity is not required to be regularly incrementally increased or decreased or terminated. It is anticipated that any pulsating and/or modulated variable light intensity may be provided by thecontroller50 to theLED light sources30.

All individualLED light sources30 within alight bar70 or light support are not required to be simultaneously and incrementally illuminated to provide for the appearance of rotation. For example, alight bar70 or light support may be separated into one or moredistinct segments326 which are formed of one ormore columns32 ofLED light sources30. Aparticular segment326 may be selected as a central illumination band which may receive the greatest exposure to the modulated or variable light intensity and, therefore, provide the brightest observable light signal. (FIG. 35) Anadjacent segment332 may be disposed on each side of the central illumination band330 which in turn may receive modulated or variable light intensity of reduced magnitude as compared to the central illumination band330. A pair of removedsegments333 may be adjacent and exterior to thesegments332, and in turn, may receive exposure to a modulated light intensity of reduced magnitude as compared tosegments332. The number of desired segments may naturally vary. Thecontroller50 may thereby regulate the light intensity to provide a modulated or variable light signal for eachindividual segment330,332, or333 (FIG. 35) to provide for a unique warning light effect for thelight bar70 or light support.

The provision of a modulated light intensity to thelight bar70 or light support may also be coupled with, or in combination to, the sequential illumination ofcolumns32 as earlier described. In this situation, the warning light signal may initially be dim or off as theindividual columns32 are sequentially illuminated and extinguished for illumination of an adjacent column orcolumns32. The light intensity for the illuminated column orcolumns32 may simultaneously be incrementally increased for a combination unique rotational and pulsating modulated or variable warning light signal.

Each individualLED light source30 preferably provides an energy light output of between 20 and 200 or more lumens. Eachsupport12 may be controlled as part of an overall warning light signal or pattern where individual supports12 may be illuminated to provide a desired type or combination light signal in addition to the provision of a modulated or variable light intensity for thelight source30.

Modulated light intensity may be regulated by thecontroller50 to create the appearance of rotation within asingle support12 or in conjunction with multiple separated, independent oradjacent supports12 for the provision of a composite emergency warning light signal.

Thecontroller50 may also provide for the random generation of light signals without the use of a preset pattern of variable light intensity.Controller50 provides a means for activating LED's30 individually to allow for greater flexibility in the type of warning light signal created. This embodiment of the invention is also capable of displaying information in a variety of different colors or sequential illumination of colors.

Referring toFIGS. 33,34, and35, theemergency vehicle300 includes a light bar orlight support302 which may include one or more panels of LEDlight sources306. A stripLED light source308 may also be secured to the exterior of theemergency vehicle300 at any location. It is anticipated that the stripLED light source308 may encircle anemergency vehicle300 to enhance the visualization of theemergency vehicle300 positioned proximate to an emergency situation.

Referring toFIG. 34, the stripLED light source308 is comprised of a circuit board310 having an array312 of individual LEDlight sources306. TheLED light sources306 are in electrical communication with each other viaelectrical contacts314. Each circuit board310 is in electrical communication with a power supply and/orcontroller50 via the use of wires. Each individualLED light source306 as included within a stripLED light source308 may be enclosed within areflector370 to facilitate and maximize light output along a desired visual line of sight. (FIGS. 26-30) TheLED light sources306 have maximum illumination at an angle of incidence approximately 40-45 downwardly from vertical. The strip LEDlight sources308 also include a back-side. The back-side includes an adhesive, magnetic, or other affixation device which may be used to secure the strip LEDlight sources308 to the exterior of anemergency vehicle300 in any desired pattern or location. The strip LEDlight sources308 may also be enclosed within atransparent cover324 which prevents moisture or other contamination from adversely affecting the performance of theLED light sources306 during use. (FIGS. 31-32)

Wires of Adjacent StripLED Light Sources308 May be Intertwined to extend across a vehicle for coupling to a power supply at a central location. The wires may be connected to thecontroller50 which may be used to regulate the illumination of individual LEDlight sources306 and/or individual panels of the strip LEDlight sources308 to provide the types of light signals previously identified herein. The individual LEDlight sources306 within the stripLED light source308 may be of a single or variety of colors as earlier described. Adjacent strip LEDlight sources308 may be electrically coupled to each other in parallel or series electrical connections for electrical communication to a centrally located controller and power source.

The individual LEDlight sources306 as incorporated into the array312 of the strip LEDlight sources308 are sturdy and do not fail or separate from avehicle300 when exposed to rough operating conditions. Thetransparent cover324 for the strip LEDlight sources308 may be formed of sturdy and resilient plastic material which prevents water penetration and/or contamination to the circuit board310 and/or individuallight sources306.

The strip LEDlight sources308 may individually be formed into supports of any size. It is anticipated that the strip LEDlight sources308 may have the approximate dimensions of three inches in length, three inches in width, and one-half inch in thickness for use in affixation to the exterior of anemergency vehicle300.

Referring toFIG. 35, apanel304 of individual LEDlight sources306 is depicted. Thepanel304 may form the illumination element for the strip of LEDlight sources308 and/orlight bar70 or

light support

12,302 as affixed to anemergency vehicle300. Eachpanel304 contains a plurality ofrows34 andcolumns32,328 of individual LEDlight sources306. Thepanels304 are in electrical communication with thecontroller50 and power supply (now shown). Thepanels304 may be controlled individually to create a desired warning light signal for anemergency vehicle300. Eachpanel304 may be controlled as part of an overall warning light signal or pattern whereindividual panels304 or combinations ofindividual panels304 may be illuminated to provide for the appearance of rotation and/or oscillation through the selective illumination of light sources or through the use of a modulated light intensity light source.

The strip LEDlight sources308 may be organized into distinct sections, segments, and/orsectors326 for individual illumination by thecontroller50. Each distinct segment, section, and/orsector326 may therefore be illuminated with a visually different and distinct type of light signal with, or without, modulated or variable light intensity for the creation of a desired type of unique warning lighting effect for a vehicle. An infinite variety of colors and/or patterns, combinations, or sequences of light signals may be established for theemergency vehicle300 through the use of thecontroller50.

Modulated light intensity may be regulated by thecontroller50 to create the appearance of rotation or pulsation within asingle panel304,strip308, or in conjunction with multiple separated oradjacent panels304 orstrips308 for the provision of a composite warning light signal. The warning light signal for each or a group ofpanels304 orstrips308 may also be regulated by thecontroller50 for the provision of a modulated light intensity for an observable warning light signal. All individual LEDlight sources306 within apanel304 orstrip308 may also be exposed to an incrementally increased modulated duty cycle or light intensity to provide for the incremental increase in illumination for a warning light signal. The modulation or light intensity curve is anticipated to resemble a sine wave pattern when the warning light signal provides the appearance of rotation (FIG. 43). After a desired level of illumination has been obtained, the duty cycle for the individuallight sources306 may then be incrementally decreased. The duty cycle is not required to be terminated. Each individualLED light source306 is not required to receive the same level of duty cycle from thecontroller50. Therefore, different individual LEDlight sources306 may receive different duty cycles within a single warning light signal. Individual LEDlight sources306 withinpanel304 are not required to be simultaneously and incrementally illuminated to provide for the appearance of rotation. It is anticipated that a pulsating and/or modulated variable light intensity may be provided by thecontroller50 for regulation of the duty cycle from thirty percent to maximum and back to thirty percent which affords a desirable type of pulsating modulated variable light effect.

The provision of a modulated light intensity to thepanels304 may also be coupled with, or in combination to, the sequential illumination of columns328 as earlier described. In this situation, the warning light signal may initially be dim or off as the individual columns328 are sequentially illuminated and extinguished for illumination of an adjacent column or columns328. The duty cycle or light intensity for the illuminated column or columns328 may simultaneously be incrementally increased for a combination unique rotational and pulsating modulated light signal. In addition, thecontroller50 may be programmed to provide the appearance of rotation pulsation and/or oscillation or for illumination of other types or combinations of types of lighting effects. The provision of a modulated light intensity may be implemented in association with a light bar orlight support302, a cylindrical panel, a strip oflights308,flat panels304, or any other type of light source as described herein.

Referring toFIGS. 48 and 49, an individualLED light source306 is depicted in detail. The LEDlight source306 may include a ceramic and/or heatresistant base334. Centrally within the ceramic and heat-resistant base334 is positioned alight source336. Thelight source336 may be enclosed within aprotective cover338. Extending outwardly from the individuallight source306 are a pair of contact paddles340 which provide for the electrical contacts for illumination of thelight sources336 during use. The back of the LEDlight source306 includes aslug342. Theslug342 is designed to be positioned withincircular openings344 of a circuit board or LED mounting surface346 (FIG. 36). The circuit board orLED mounting surface346 establishes a heat sink within an aluminum base or frame348 as depicted inFIGS. 38 and 39. TheLED light sources306 as depicted inFIGS. 48 and 49 provide for a light intensity varying between 20 and 200 lumens or higher. The positioning of theslug342 in thecircular openings344 of the circuit board orLED mounting surface346 assists in the establishment of the heat sink. A heat sink is desirable because the individual LEDlight sources306 may have a sufficient level of power output during use to develop heat. As a result, theslugs342 are positioned within thecircular opening344 and may be fully engaged to an adhesive for affixation to an aluminum base349 (FIGS. 38 and 39). This combination assists in the dissipation of heat during use of the individual LEDlight sources306 enhancing the performance of thelight support302.

As may be seen inFIGS. 31,32,37,38,39, and50, in an alternative embodiment, the light bar,light support302, orpanel304 may be formed of a single row of LEDlight sources306. Within this embodiment, theLED light sources306 are positioned withincircular openings344 of circuit board or LED mounting surface346 (FIG. 37).Circuit board346 may be affixed toaluminum base348 through the use of adhesive including glass beads where thecircular openings344 assist in the establishment of a heat sink for the individual LEDlight sources306. The use of adhesive including glass beads to affix theLED light sources306 andcircuit board346 to thealuminum base348 assists in the creation of electrical contact for the light bar orlight support302.

As depicted inFIGS. 37,38, and39, the top surface of the circuit board orLED mounting surface346 may include two reflectors or mirrors350. The reflectors or mirrors350 are preferably elongate and are positioned substantially parallel to each other and are adjacent or aligned to the row ofindividual LED s306. The reflectors or mirrors350 diverge upwardly and outwardly from a position proximate to the LEDlight source306 andaluminum base348. As such, themirrors350 have a separation distance which is narrow proximate to theLED light sources306, where the separation distance becomes larger as the distance vertically from thealuminum base348 increases.

The brightest or most intense light of the individual LEDlight sources306 is provided at an acute angle of approximately 40 to 42. The reflector ormirror350 as angled upwardly and outwardly relative to the row of LEDlight sources306 reflects light exiting theLED light sources306 along a desired line of sight which corresponds to perpendicular observation by an individual. The reflectors or mirrors350 maximize the efficiency of thelight sources306 by reflecting light along the line of sight to be observed by an individual during an emergency situation. The reflectors or mirrors350 may have a polished or non-polished surface depending on the brightness desired for thelight support302. The reflectors or mirrors350 may also include one or morereflective sections374 and/or transparent orclear sections372. The transparent orclear sections372 and thereflective sections374 are described in detail with reference toFIGS. 26-30 below. The surface of the reflectors or mirrors350 may also include any desired combination of sections, patterns, stripes, rows, and/or columns of clear ortransparent sections372 and/orreflective sections374 for reflection of light illuminated from the individual LEDlight sources306 during the provision of a warning light signal.

Wires

354 connect thecircuit board346 to the power supply andcontroller50. A modulated light source may thereby be provided to thelight support302 which includes the reflector or mirrors350. In this embodiment, the sequential illumination of individual LED's306 may occur to provide a desired type of warning light signal. Also, thecircuit board346 as engaged to the base348 may be separated intosegments326 of LEDlight sources306 for use in combination with a modulated light intensity electrical source.

As depicted inFIGS. 38 and 39, theframe348 includes abase349. The base349 may include a holdingcavity358. In the holdingcavity358 is preferably positioned a circuit board orLED mounting surface360 which includes a plurality ofcircular openings344. In eachcircular opening344, is positioned an individualLED light source306. Above the holdingcavity358 is afirst support362 and asecond support363. Thefirst support362 andsecond support363 have an angled interior edge364. Each angled interior edge364 is adapted to receive a reflector ormirror350. Eachmirror350 is utilized to reflect light illuminated from an individuallight source306 along a visual line of sight as depicted by arrow AA ofFIG. 39. The first and

second supports

362,363 may also include a positioning ledge or notch366 which is adapted to receive a glass or transparent plastic cover lens368 which serves as a protector for theframe348 and individual LEDlight sources306.

Referring toFIG. 50, theframe348 may be elongate having afirst end380 and a second end (not shown). Thefirst end380 and the second end each include andaffixation area382 which may be threaded for receiving engagement to afastener384. Abracket386 may be rotatably engaged to thefirst end380 and second end by tightening of thefasteners384 relative to theaffixation areas382. Thebracket386 includes andangled portion388 which may include asecond fastener390 which may be formed of suction cups. Alternatively, thesecond fastener390 may be screws, bolts, and/or rivets for attachment of theframe348 at a desired location relative to the interior or exterior of avehicle300.

Referring toFIGS. 26-30, a reflector or culminator for the individual LEDlight sources306 is disclosed. The reflector or culminator is indicated in general by the numeral370. The reflector orculminator370 may be conical in shape and may be configured to encircle an individualLED light source306. The reflector orculminator370 may also be partially transparent. Thereflectors370 may be formed ofclear sections372 and/orreflective sections374. InFIG. 29, theclear section372 is positioned proximate to the LEDlight source306 and thereflective section374 is positioned to the top of thereflector370.

InFIG. 28, thereflective section374 is positioned proximate to the LEDlight source306 and theclear section372 is positioned to the top of reflector orculminator370. As may be seen inFIG. 30, the entire interior surface of the reflector orculminator370 may be formed of areflective section374. A plurality ofclear sections374 may be utilized within each reflector orculminator370.

The use of a combination ofclear sections372 andreflective sections374 enable an individual to select a configuration for the provision of partial illumination along an angle which is not parallel to a desired line of sight. An individual may thereby observe an illuminated light signal from the side or top of a light bar orlight support302 as opposed to being aligned with a desired line of sight.

Each of the culminator or reflector cups370 includes an angled interior surface which extends upwardly and diverges outwardly from acentral opening394. Eachcentral opening394 is constructed and arranged for positioning approximate to and over anLED light source306. Each of the culminator orreflector cups370 also preferably includes an angled exterior surface which extends upwardly and diverges outwardly from a bottom or base which is positioned approximate to an LED mounting surface orcircuit board346.

Referring toFIG. 26 a plurality of culminator cups orreflectors370 may be formed into a culminator assembly orarray392. The culminator assembly orarray392 is adapted for positioning over an array of LEDlight sources306. Examples of arrays of LEDlight sources306 which may be utilized with aculminator assembly392 are depicted inFIGS. 3-10,12,14,15,23-25,31,32,34,35,37,39,40,44, and47.

Eachculminator array392 is formed of a reflective material which has plurality ofreflective cups370 disposed there through. Eachopening394 is adapted for positioning over anLED light source306. Theculminator array392 has a sufficient thickness to establish an interior reflective surface having a sufficient dimension to reflect light as emitted from the LEDlight sources306. Alternatively, the interior surface of eachreflector cup370 may be entirely or partially coated with reflective material. Theentire culminator assembly392 is not required to be formed of reflective material provided that the interior surface of the reflector cups370 are coated at least partially with reflective material.

Theculminator array392 may be formed in any shape including but not necessarily limited to square, rectangular, triangular, linear, circular, oval, and special or other irregular shapes for use in reflecting light emitted from anLED light source306. The interior surface of any desired number ofculminator cups370 may also be coated with reflective374 and non-reflective372 sections as earlier described.

The strip LEDlight source308 and LEDlight sources306 inframe348 are designed to operate on a 12 volt power supply which is available in a standard emergency vehicle battery. Theframe348 and stripLED light source308 are enclosed in a waterproof protector to minimize the risk of contamination or failure from any exposure to moisture or dust or dirt. The use of the strip LEDlight sources308 andframe348 minimize the necessity to modify the exterior of anemergency vehicle300 through the placement of holes or other apertures. In these embodiments, thewires354 and316 may be adhesively secured to the exterior of a vehicle for entry into the power source andcontroller50 at a common location.

The strip LEDlight sources308 may be used on other devices and are not necessarily limited to use on anemergency vehicle300. It is anticipated that the strip LEDlight sources308 may be used on a variety of apparatus including but not limited to snowmobiles, water craft, helmets, airplanes, or any other device which may accept use of an LED light source.

InFIGS. 40-43 awarning signal light400 is depicted which in general includes alight source402 and arotatable reflector404. Thelight source402 may include one or more individualLED illumination devices406. Thelight source402 may include a base408 which may be mounted on apost410. Thelight source402 may either be stationary or rotate as desired.

Amotor412 is electrically connected to a power supply for rotation of a wheel or gear414. The wheel or gear414 is connected to themotor412 by ashaft416. The wheel or gear414 is in contact with, or is engaged to, arotatable collar418 which may be adapted to rotate freely about thepost410 during operation of themotor412. The wheel or gear414 may be formed of rubber material or any other desired material. Alternatively, the wheel414 may include teeth and function as a gear for engagement to corresponding grooves and teeth as integral to the exterior surface of thecollar418.

Anaperture420 may pass throughpost410 to receivewires422 for the provision of power toLED light source402. A washer orsupport device424 vertically supportsrotatable collar418 onpost410 from a position belowcollar418. Apositioner426 functions to restrict the vertical movement of thecollar418 upwardly during engagement of themotor412 and rotation of the wheel414 andcollar418.

Ahorizontal support arm428 extends outwardly fromcollar418. Avertical support arm430 extends upwardly formhorizontal support arm428.Angular support arm432 extends inwardly and upwardly fromvertical support arm430 for positioning of a reflector ormirror434 abovelight source402. The reflector ormirror434 is positioned at an approximate angle of forty-five degrees relative to thelight source402. Light as emitted vertically from thelight source402 may then reflect from thereflector434 along a substantially perpendicular line of visual sight. Thereflector434 rotated ninety degrees is depicted in phantom line as an oval due to the angular off set of approximately forty-five degrees.

The use ofmotor412 rotates wheel414 which in turn rotatescollar418 andreflector434 in a circular direction aboutlight source402 for the provision of an observed rotational warning light source. In addition, thelight source402 may be electrically coupled to acontroller50 to provide a modulated, alternating, variable, pulsating, or oscillating light source simultaneously to the rotation of thereflector434 aboutlight source402.

Referring toFIG. 41 thewarning signal light400 includes alight source402 which is rotatable in conjunction with thereflector434. In this embodiment themotor412 is connected to a first gear which is enclosed withincasing436. A second gear is also enclosed withincasing436 and is coupled to the first gear for rotation of thereflector434. Avertical rod438 is affixed or integral to the second gear. Thevertical rod438 supports theLED light source402 as positioned adjacent toreflector434. Anangled brace440 is also engaged torod438.Angled brace440 supports reflector434 during rotation ofreflector434 which represents a circular motion as depicted byarrow442. In thisembodiment reflector434 is arcuate in shape and may be parabolic. Light emitted fromlight source402 may then be reflected by thearcuate reflector434 along a desired line of sight. The engagement of themotor412 rotates thelight source402 andreflector434 to provide a rotational light source as observed by an individual. Thelight source402 may be coupled to acontroller50 to provide for a modulated, alternating variable, and/or pulsating light signal in conjunction with the rotation of thereflector434.

Referring toFIG. 42, thereflector434 is not required to be flat and may include a convex orconcave face444. The provision of a convex orconcave face444, is utilized to assist in the creation of a unique variable light effect as observed by an individual. Light as emitted from thelight source402 may then be reflected at any desired angle other than perpendicular for observation by an individual. The pulsating intensity of the light as observed by an individual may then be unique, especially when used in conjunction with the rotatedreflector434 and variable or modulated light intensity from thecontroller50. In addition, the use of a convex orconcave reflector444 may expand or enhance the observation of thewarning signal light400 by individuals beyond a perpendicular line of sight. Thewarning signal light400 may then be observed above or below alight source402. Thereflector434 as rotated ninety degrees is depicted in phantom line and is generally oblong or oval in shape.

FIG. 43 represents graphically the variable or pulsating illumination of the observed light as reflected from thereflector434 ofFIG. 42. Time is represented along the x-axis and increasing brightness is depicted along the y-axis. The graph ofFIG. 43 shows the gradual increase in brightness of the observed light as thereflector434 is rotated to a maximum illumination corresponding to direct in line observation of the warning light signal and then the gradual decrease in observed light intensity as thereflector434 is rotated away from direct in line sight. The observed warning light signal is not required to be extinguished and may be reduced to a minimum observable intensity of approximately thirty percent.

Referring toFIG. 44, thewarning signal light400 in general includes alight source402 which may be rotated through the use of amotor412 for transmission of light through afilter446 for reflection from aconical reflector448 as mounted to the interior of a light bar orlight support450.

Power formotor412 is supplied throughwires452 from a power source not shown. Power for thelight sources402 is provided throughwires454 insupport456.Brushes458 may be in electrical communication with the power from thewires454 to transmit electrical current to a second set of brushes460 utilized to communicate power to thelight sources402. Thebase462 of thelight source402 may preferably be formed of an electrically conductive material to facilitate the provision of power to thelight sources402.

Ashaft464 preferably extends between themotor412 and the base462 where operation of themotor412 causes rotation of theshaft464 and the base462 having thelight sources402. Light is transmitted vertically upward from thelight sources402 through thefilter446. (FIGS. 44 and 45.) Thefilter446 may include one or more sections of tinted material466. Thefilter446 may be stationary or may be rotatable. The tinted material466 may be any color or opaque to establish a desired illumination effect for an emergency warning signal light. Any number of tinted sections466 or transparent areas may be placed on thefilter446. Thefilter446 may be formed of glass or plastic or other sturdy material. The tinted sections466 may be integral to or placed upon thefilter446 dependent upon construction considerations. Thefilter446 may be attached to theconical reflector448 by afastener468.

Theconical reflector448 may include a straight reflective edge470. Alternatively, the reflective edge470 may be concave or convex to establish a unique lighting effect. Theconical reflector448 may be affixed to, and descend from, the top of a light bar orlight support450 as may be attached to anemergency vehicle300.

Light transmitted upwardly from thelight sources402 passes through either a substantially transparent section or through the tinted or opaque material466 which may block light transmission or after the color of the light. Light is then reflected from theconical reflector448 at a desired angle for transmission through the vertical sections of the light bar orlight support450 for observation by an individual.

FIG. 46 represents graphically the intensity of the observed light as reflected from theconical reflector448 ofFIG. 44. Time is represented along the x-axis and observed brightness is represented along the y-axis. The observed light signal transmitted from the warning signal light ofFIG. 44 is much steeper which corresponds to a shorter period of observation more similar to a flashing light signal. The light sources may also be coupled to acontroller50 for the provision of a variable, modulated and/or pulsating light effect.

Referring toFIGS. 31 and 32 amodular light support480 in general includes anLED mounting surface482 having one or more LEDlight sources306, aculminator assembly484 and acover324.

TheLED mounting surface482 is elongate and includes a plurality of LEDlight sources306. In general, one to fiveLED light sources306 are disposed in a linear orientation along theLED mounting surface482 which may be a circuit board as earlier described. TheLED mounting surface482 also includes a first end486 and asecond end488. Anopening490 is positioned through theLED mounting surface482 proximate to each of the first end486 andsecond end488.

Theculminator assembly484 preferably includes a plurality ofreflector cup areas492. Theculminator assembly484 also preferably includes a plurality ofsupport walls494, atop surface496, and a plurality ofopenings490. Each of theopenings490 is sized to receivingly position and hold the individualLED light source306 during assembly of themodular light support480. Thereflector cup areas492 are equally spaced along theculminator484 to correspond to the spacing between the individuallight sources306 as disposed on theLED mounting surface482.

Thecover324 is preferably transparent permitting transmission of light emitted from the LED light supports306 therethrough. Thecover324 includes aforward face498, a pair of end faces500, atop face502 and abottom face504. Each of the pair of end faces500 includes a receivingnotch506 which is adapted to receivingly engage the LEDlight mounting surface482 during assembly of themodular light support480. Anaffixation opening508 traverses theforward face498 proximate to each of the pair of end faces500. Afastener510 passes through theaffixation opening508 for engagement to theopening490 to secure theLED mounting surface482 into the receivingnotch506. Theculminator assembly484 is then positioned within the interior of thecover324 where thetop surface496 is proximate to theforward face498. The illumination of theLED light sources306 then transmits light through theforward face498 for observation of an emergency warning light signal.

Specifically referring toFIG. 32 one or more modular light supports480 may be positioned adjacent to each other for the creation of a light bar orlight stick512. The modular light supports480 and/or light bar orlight stick512 may be coupled to acontroller50 which may independently and/or in combination provide a plurality of independent and visually distinct warning light signals as earlier described. In addition, thecontroller50 may provide modulated and/or variable light intensity to the individual LEDlight sources306 to establish unique warning light signal effects. Thecontroller50 may individually illuminate LEDlight sources306 to provide for one or a combination of colored light signals as earlier described.

Any number of modular light supports480 may be positioned adjacent to each other to comprise a light bar orlight stick512. A plurality of modular light supports480 may be positioned at any location about the exterior or within the interior of a vehicle.

Referring toFIG. 47 an alternative embodiment of a reflector assembly is disclosed. In general, the reflector assembly ofFIG. 47 includes anenclosure518. Positioned within the interior ofenclosure518 is amotor520 having ashaft522 and agear524. Afirst support526 has a periphery having a plurality ofteeth528 adapted to releasably engage thegear524. Thefirst support526 includes amirror bridge530 which is used to position amirror532 at an approximate angle of 45° relative to aLED light source306. Within the interior of thefirst support526 is located aculminator assembly534 which may include one or more reflective cups. Individual LEDlight sources306 are positioned within each of the culminator cups of theculminator assembly534 to maximize illumination of emitted light for reflection from themirror532.

On the opposite side ofgear524 is locatedsecond support536.Second support536 also includes a periphery having a plurality ofteeth528, amirror bridge530, amirror532, and aculminator assembly534 disposed adjacent to a plurality of individual LEDlight sources306.

Athird support538 is adjacent to thesecond support536. Thethird support538 also includes a periphery having a plurality ofteeth528, amirror bridge530, and amirror532 disposed at a 45° angle above aculminator assembly534. A plurality of individual LEDlight sources306 are disposed within the reflector cups of theculminator assembly534. Theteeth528 of thethird support538 andsecond support536 are coupled so that rotational motion provided to thesecond support536 by thegear524 is transferred into rotational motion of thethird support538.

In operation, the individual LEDlight sources306 are connected to a power source and/or acontroller50 as earlier described. An infinite number of independent visually distinctive warning light signals may be emitted through the use of the rotational reflector as depicted inFIG. 47. An infinite number of warning light signal combinations may also be provided by thecontroller50 for use with the rotational reflector ofFIG. 47.

Each of themirrors532 may be positioned for reflection and transmission of light to a desired field of vision relative to the rotational reflector. A flashing and/or rotational light source may be provided for observation by an individual.

Thefirst support526,second support536, andthird support538 may be synchronized to provide for a unique warning signal light for observation by an individual. The engagement of themotor520 for rotation of thegear524 simultaneously rotates thefirst support526,second support536 andthird support538 for the provision of a warning light signal.

LED technology enables the selection of a desired wavelength for transmission of light energy from the individual LEDlight sources306. Any wavelength of visible or non-visible light is available for transmission from the LEDlight sources306. As such, generally no filters are required for use with individual LEDlight sources306. The individual LEDlight sources306 may be selected to provide for any desired color normally associated with the use in emergency vehicles such as amber, red, yellow, blue, green and/or white.

Turning to the embodiment shown inFIG. 51.FIG. 51 shows a possible configuration of awarning signal light600 having modular components. In the embodiment shown alight support602 has a plurality ofmodule receiving ports604. Themodule receiving ports604 are constructed and arranged to provide electrical communication respectively to amodule support member610 of amodule606 received therein. Each of themodule support members610 may be made up of connection teeth orcontacts608 which electrically contact and engage the receivingports604 when inserted therein. Eachmodule606 has at least one visible lightsignal display surface612 which has one or morelight sources30 removably mounted thereon. Thelight sources30 are light emitting diodes, such as have been previously discussed. About eachlight source30 may be aculminator370. Furthermore, each culminator370 may include areflective surface616 at least partially disposed thereon.Reflector616 more efficiently directs the light emitted fromlight source30 in a desired direction. In an additional embodiment of the invention thereflector616 may be adjustable so as to redirect and/or focus light emitted from thelight source30 during use. Also, thevisible surface612 or the individual culminator cups370 andreflectors616 may also have one or more lenses equipped thereon to provide the warning signal light with the ability to magnify and/or diffuse emitted light.

In the embodiment shown, themodule support members610 and themodule receiving ports604 respectively are uniform in size. The uniformity of theports604 and themembers610 allowsmodules606 to be readily replaced and also provides the invention with the capacity to have variously sized and shapedmodules606 to be interchanged and arranged in various configurations. For example a relatively elongated module, such as is indicated by reference numeral606a, could be positioned in any of thevarious ports604 shown and could likewise be replaced with any other module such as the more vertically orientedmodule606b, or the remaining module type606c. Such modularity and standardization of connections provides the present invention with a tremendous variety of module configurations which may be readily reconfigured as desired.

In addition to providing a variety of module types, the present invention also provides for a variety of mechanisms to be associated with theports604. In the embodiment shown for example, arotation mechanism618 has aport604 mounted thereon. Any number ofrotation mechanisms618 could be included on the surface of thesupport602 such as is shown. Alternatively a similar mechanism or mechanisms could be included on one or more surfaces of amodule606 to provide a dedicated rotation module. Therotation mechanism618 could also be configured as a gyrator or other motion producing device.

It must also be noted however that the threetypes module varieties606a,606band606cpresently shown and described are merely three examples of potential module sizes and shapes. It should be understood thatmodules606 may be configured in any size or shape as desired. As indicated above, in order to ensure the greatest ease of use and elegance in design, it may be desirable to provide thevarious modules606 withuniform support members610 and also provide thesupport602 with similarlyuniform ports604. However, in order to ensure that only certain module types are utilized in certain ports, it is recognized that the present invention could also utilize asupport602 having a variety ofport604 configurations withmodules606 having module supports610 sized to correspond with specific ports and/orports604.

In keeping with the modular construction of the present invention, it should also be understood that thesupport602, like most of the components thus described could be embodied in a variety of shapes and sizes. Preferably, thesupport602 is a circuit board with a number ofports604 included thereon. In one aspect of the invention, thesupport602 could be embodied as several supports with each support having a unique arrangement of modules and light sources. The electronic schematics shown inFIGS. 52-55 show some possible configurations and their associated electronic connections between the various components of the invention.

Starting inFIG. 52, an embodiment of the invention is shown where thecontroller50 is in electronic communication with one ormore supports602, which are in turn in electronic communication with one ormore modules606, which are in turn in electronic communication with one or morelight sources30.FIG. 53 shows a similar series of electric pathways, but in the present embodiment thecontroller50 may also be in direct electric communication with each of the various components, support(s)602, module(s)606 and light source(s)30, independent of one another.

In the embodiment shown inFIG. 54, the individualvisible surfaces612 of thevarious modules606 may be controlled by thecontroller50. Though not indicated in the schematic, the various components supports602,modules606,visible surfaces612 andlight sources30 may be independently controlled by thecontroller50 or may be selectively activated via the electronic pathway shown.

In the embodiment shown inFIG. 55, asupport602 includes acontroller50. Eachcontroller50 is in electronic communication with anexternal controller55 in the manner previously discussed. The embodiment shown inFIG. 55 may include numerous independently controlledsupports602 which are in communication with theexternal controller55.Individual controllers55 may also be included with eachmodules606 to provide for a warning signal light having numerous predetermined light signals or patterns which may be displayed by sending a single signal from theexternal controller55 to thevarious controllers50.

In reference to the various embodiments shown inFIGS. 52-55, additional components may be added to any of the various embodiments shown and that numerous configurations other than those shown or described could be created. The present invention is directed to all possible arrangements of the various components described herein regardless of the number, type or arrangement of the components described herein.

Thecontroller50 and/orexternal controller55 described in relation toFIGS. 52-55 may provide modulated and/or variable illumination to individuallight sources30 ormodules606. Thecontroller50 orexternal controller55 may selectively illuminate any combination of individuallight sources30 ormodules606 to provide an infinite variety of patterns and/or combinations of patterns for a warning light signal independently of, or in combination with, the provision of modulated or variable light intensity.

Turning toFIGS. 56-58, several views of an example of amodule606 is shown. Typically, a module will include abase portion620 and light mountingportion622. Thebase portion620 will include thesupport member610 which will typically include a plurality ofelectric contacts608. Thesupport member610 and theelectric contacts608 are removably engageable to aport604. Thecontacts608 provide themodule606 with an electric path to thesupport602 andcontroller50 such as is shown inFIGS. 51-55.

Thelight mounting portion622 preferably is a vertically orientedcircuit board630 which includes one or morelight sources30 and associated culminator cups370 withreflective surfaces616 removably mounted thereon. The light sources are preferably LEDs. As shown inFIG. 51 thelight mounting portion622 may be enclosed in a transparent cover or dome such asprotector290.

As depicted inFIGS. 61,62,65, and66, an LED take-down light700 and an

LED alley light

702,800,808 are shown as being integral to a

light bar

704,760 mounted to anemergency vehicle706.

The LED take-down light700 may include one ormore LED s336. The LED s786 forming the LED take-down light700 may each be surrounded by aculminator370 as depicted and described with reference toFIGS. 26-32 having one or morereflective sections374 for transmission of light along a desired line of illumination. Alternatively, a

reflector

350,434 may be positioned adjacent to LEDlight sources336 as described in reference toFIGS. 37-47. The

reflector

350,434 used in conjunction with take-down light700 may be stationary or may be rotatable through the use of a rotational device. The LED s786 forming the LED take-down light700 may also be angularly off-set with respect to horizontal to provide illumination along a preferred line of illumination as depicted with reference toFIGS. 13 and 14.

The LED take-down light700 may be integral to, or mounted upon, the

light bar

704,760. The LED take-down light700 may be formed of panels or modules of LED illumination sources as depicted and described inFIGS. 31-32 and51-58. The LED take-down light700 may also include circuit boards as earlier depicted and described further usingculminator reflectors370, within a frame or support assembly.

The use of an LED take-down light700 incorporating LED technology improves illumination of areas in front of an emergency vehicle by flooding the area occupied by a stopped vehicle with light while simultaneously secreting the actions and location of law enforcement personnel during law enforcement activities. The illumination of the LED take-down light700 also assists in enhancing the visibility of an emergency vehicle during dark illumination conditions which in turn improves the safety for law enforcement personnel.

The LED take-down light700 is preferably coupled to a power supply, battery, or other low voltage power source. The take-down light700 may also be electrically coupled to acontroller50 for illumination of all or part of the LED light sources786 to provide for a desired level of illumination for an area adjacent to an emergency vehicle. Thecontroller50 may alternatively provide one or more of the many types of light signals as earlier described.

Further, the intensity of the LED light sources786 may be selectively regulated by acontroller50 dependent upon the darkness of the conditions to be illuminated during law enforcement activities. Thecontroller50 may be coupled to a light or photosensitive detector to assist in the selection of a desired level of light output dependent upon the environmental conditions encountered by the law enforcement personnel during use of the LED take-down light700.

The LED take-down light700 may be formed of one or more adjacent panels ormodules784 of LED illumination sources786 along a

front face

710,764 for a

light bar

704,760. Alternatively, a plurality of panels ormodules784 of LED light sources786 may be formed along the

front face

710,764 of the

light bar

704,760 as well as a plurality of panels ormodules784 of LED light sources786 along the

rear face

712,776 of the

light bar

704,760. The panels ormodules784 selected for the LED illumination sources786 may be linear, square, rectangular and/or may have two or more sides, or may be a single illumination source. Each individual panel ormodule784 of LED illumination sources786 may be independently illuminated by acontroller50 to provide one of a plurality of individual and distinct warning light effects. For example, a first, third, and fifth panel ormodules784 of LED sources786 may be illuminated where the second and fourth panels ormodules784 are not illuminated. Alternatively, the first, third, and fifth panels ormodules784 of LED light sources786 may be continuously illuminated and the second and fourth panels ormodules784 may be illuminated to provide a flashing or strobe light signal. Illumination of any combination of panels ormodules784 may be provided to create a preferred unique warning light signal for the LED take-down light700. A constant illumination signal may be provided or a flashing, strobe, and/or modulated light intensity may occur to provide one of a plurality of distinct light signals for use within an emergency situation.

The LED light sources786 within the LED take-down light700 may be angularly offset as depicted withinFIG. 14 to provide a maximum illumination at a preferred distance adjacent to the front of a law enforcement vehicle.

The LED take-down light700 may be releasably secured to the top of an emergency vehicle or

light bar

704,760 through the use of standard affixation mechanisms including, but not limited to, the use of suction cups, hook and loop fasteners, brackets, screws, bolts, and/or other fasteners. The LED take-down light700 may be permanently secured to a

light bar

704,760 or may be releasably attached thereto for separation and use as a remote beacon as described in reference toFIG. 15.

The take-down light700 may alternatively be formed of strips of LEDlight sources308 as previously disclosed in reference toFIG. 34. During use of strip LED light sources308 a culminator/reflector370 may be used for positioning adjacent to each individualLED light source336 to reflect light along a desired line of illumination. The strip LEDlight sources308 may preferably include adhesive backing material. The adhesive backing material may be used to permanently or releasably secure the strips of LEDlight sources308 in a desired location within the LED take-down light700. Alternatively, the take-down light700 may be integral to light bars previously illustrated and described.

As depicted inFIGS. 61,62,65, and66, the LED alley lights800,808 provide perpendicularly outward illuminating areas adjacent to the drivers side and passengers side of thevehicle706. The

LED Alley lights

800,808 are almost identical in construction and functionality to the LED take-down light700. The LED alley lights800,808 may be mounted to a mechanical pivot, gears, and/or rotational device which may include an electric motor. The rotation of the mechanical pivot, or gears may alternatively be terminated to permit fixed angular illumination of areas adjacent to alaw enforcement vehicle706 which are not perpendicular to either the drivers or passenger sides in a manner similar to the functionality and operation of a spot light. In this regard, the LED alley lights800,808 may be manipulated forwardly, rearwardly, upwardly, and/or downwardly to provide illumination of a desired area relative to anemergency vehicle706.

The LED alley lights800,808 may be integral to, or removable from, the opposite ends of

light bar

704,760. As such, the LED alley lights800,808 may be releasably secured to opposite ends of thelight bar760 through the use of fasteners such as bolts and nuts, screws, adhesives, straps, and/or hook and loop fabric material. An individual may simultaneously illuminate the LED take-down light700 and the LED alley lights800,808 or may alternatively illuminate the LED alley lights800,808 independently from the LED take-down light700 within an emergency situation.

Referring toFIGS. 61,62,65, and66, the take-down light700 may be positioned inside of a housing, base, orenclosure780 which has atransparent surface782 permitting light as emitted from LED light sources786 to pass therethrough. Within the interior of the base/housing780 are located one or more light emittingdiode light modules784. EachLED light module784 may include one or more individual light emitting diodes786 as integral tocircuit board788. The functions and operation of LED light sources, LED s, and circuit boards are identical to the light sources described in reference toFIGS. 31 and 32. EachLED light module784 may also include electrical couplers orconnectors790 which may be adapted for penetrating engagement into a receivingslot792. TheLED light modules784 as earlier described with reference toFIGS. 51-58 facilitate ease of replacement herein. An individual may thereby easily replace and/or substitute anLED light module784 with another LED light module having the same or different colors or intensity characteristics. Thecircuit board788 and/orLED light modules784 may be panels or strips as described with reference toFIGS. 34 and 35.

The LED lights786 are preferably spaced aboutcircuit board788 in any pattern and/or combination including the use of a linear configuration. Adjacent to eachLED light module784 is positioned a reflector which may be a

culminator

730,534, as earlier described in reference toFIGS. 26-32 and47. Alternatively, a reflector or

mirror

802,434,350, as described in reference toFIGS. 21,22,37-39,40-42, and47, may positioned adjacent toLED light modules784 to reflect light emitted by LED s786 in a desired direction for maximization of illumination characteristics for the alley lights800,808 and/or take-down light700. The utility of the alley lights800,808 and/or take-down light700 is thereby enhanced. The

reflectors

370,534,434,802, or350 may be integral and/or attached tocircuit board788, a frame, or to a support adjacent tocircuit board788 to reflect light emitted from LED s786 in a desired direction.

Within the housing/enclosure780 is located amotor794 having aworm gear796 engaged to ashaft798. Engagement ofmotor794 rotatesshaft798 in turn rotatingworm gear796. Themotor794 is electrically coupled to the electrical system and/orcontroller50 for the emergency vehicle.

Afirst alley light800 may be positioned withinhousing780 proximate tomotor794. Thefirst alley light800 may be stationary and/or rotatable relative to thelight bar760. Thefirst alley light800 may or may not be engaged to agear804. If rotation of thefirst alley light800 is desired, then gear804 may include a receivingslot792 to provide electrical connection and power to theLED light module784 for provision of light.Gear804 may also be coupled toworm gear796 for the provision of rotation and/or oscillation motion. If motion offirst alley light800 is not desired, then stationary positioning ofLED light modules784 relative tohousing780 may be provided with suitable electrical connection to a vehicle power source.

Take-down light700,first alley light800, andsecond alley light808 may be alternatively formed in any shape as earlier described in reference toFIGS. 4-10,12,23-25,31,32,34,35,37-39,51, and56-58. Take-down light700,first alley light800, andsecond alley light808 may be stationary withinhousing780.

Asecond gear806 may be provided for central positioning withinhousing780. Thesecond gear806 may be coupled togear804 which may in turn be coupled toworm gear796 as connected toshaft798. Rotation ofshaft798 bymotor794 thereby imparts rotation ofgear804 andsecond gear806. Alternatively, theshaft798 may be elongate includingworm gear796 for direct coupling tosecond gear806. Rotation of 360° or oscillating rotation ofsecond gear806 may therefore be provided.

Second gear

806 may also include a receivingslot792 adapted to receivingly engageelectronical connectors790 as integral tocircuit board788 ofLED light modules784.Light modules784 also include a plurality of individual LEDs786 which may each be positioned within a

culminator

534,370,802. Acontroller50 may be electrically connected to eachLED light modules784 as coupled togear804,second gear806,third gear810, and/orhousing780 for selectively illumination of individual LED s786, or for illumination of any combination of LED s786. The features as earlier described forcontroller50 are equally applicable for use with the take-down light700,first alley light800, andsecond alley light808, relative to distinct types and combinations of types of warning light signals.

Second gear

806 may be further coupled tothird gear810 which may include a receivingslot792 adapted for electrical coupling toconnector790 of take-down light700.Second alley light808 is designed to be rotated and to sweep forwardly to the front of an emergency vehicle at such times when the intersection clearing light mode has been activated. During activation of the intersection clearing light mode, the take-down light700 as electrically coupled or integral tothird gear810 will rotate sweeping to the outside front corner of an emergency vehicle.

Thecontroller50 is in electrical communication with the take-down light700, thefirst alley light800, and thesecond alley light808. Any number of take-downlights700 or

alley lights

800,808 may be used in association with a

light bar

704,760. Thecontroller50 may additionally regulate the rotation of themotor794 for imparting rotation to the take-down light700, and/or the alley lights800 and808.

Thecontroller50 activating themotor794 may selectively initiate an intersection clearing illumination mode or sequence.Motor794 causes theshaft798 to rotate imparting motion to theworm gear796. The rotation of theworm gear796 may then be transferred to thefirst alley light800 through coupling to thefirst gear804. Alternatively, theworm gear796 may be directly coupled to thesecond gear806. In another embodiment, motion may be imparted to thesecond gear806 through the use of atie bar824 as connected between thesecond gear806 and thefirst gear804. Rotation of theworm gear796 rotatesfirst gear804 whereupon motion may be transferred to thesecond gear806 for movement of thesecond alley light808. Rotation may be further transferred to the take-down light700 via the coupling of thethird gear810 to thesecond gear806. Thetie bar824 may extend betweengear804 andsecond gear806 to synchronize motion, rotation, and illumination of thefirst alley light800 relative to thesecond alley light808 and take-down light700.

Each of thefirst alley light800,second alley light808, and take-down light700, are in electrical communication with a power source for a vehicle and are further in communication with thecontroller50. Thecontroller50 may independently impart motion to the take-down light700,first alley light800, andsecond alley light808. The alley lights800,808, and take-down light700 may be selectively illuminated without initiation of rotational motion as regulated by thecontroller50. Alternatively, thecontroller50 may signal engagement of themotor794 to impart rotation to any one of thefirst alley light800,second alley light808, and/or take-down light700 for use as an intersection clearing light. Thecontroller50 is therefore capable of simultaneously regulating motion of the rotational devices such as

gears

804,806, and810 and illumination of selected individual or groups of LED s786 to provide independent or combination light effects.

The intersection clearing light mode may generally be initiated by thecontroller50 which signals motor794 to rotatesecond gear806 either through rotation offirst gear804 or through direct contact withworm gear796. The first or at rest position for thesecond alley light808 directs the transmission of light in the direction depicted byarrow812 which is generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of a vehicle. As the intersection clearing light mode is engaged, the counter clockwise rotation ofgear804 causes the clockwise forward rotation of thesecond gear806 according toarrow814 until an angle offorward rotation816 is achieved. The direction offorward rotation816 transmits light emitted fromLED light modules784 forwardly towards a corner of a vehicle at an approximate angle % of 45°. Thecontroller50 may then continue to rotate the

gears

804, or806, in a counter clockwise direction for 360° rotation, or alternatively thecontroller50 may signal themotor794 to reverse direction to rotate thesecond alley light808 rearwardly back to the first at rest position indicated bynumber812. During the clockwise rotation of theworm gear796, thesecond gear806,third gear810 and take-down light700 may be rotated in a counter clockwise direction. The initial at rest position for the take-down light700 is forwardly with respect to the alley lights800,808. The engagement of the intersection clearing light mode rotates the take-down light700 outwardly towards the sides of an emergency vehicle from a first position indicated at818 to a second position indicated at820 as depicted byarrow822 ofFIG. 65.

Alternatively, thefirst alley light800 may be rotated simultaneously with thesecond alley light808 by engagement between thefirst gear804 andsecond gear806. Synchronous rotation between thefirst alley light800 and thesecond alley light806 may be provided through the use of thetie bar824 or through direct coupling engagement of

gears

804 and806.

In an alternative embodiment as depicted inFIG. 66, thefirst gear804 is not required to be connected to thesecond gear806 with the exception of thetie bar824. Thetie bar824 extends between thefirst gear804 and thesecond gear806 and is pivotally and rotatably engaged to each of the first and

second gears

804,806 respectively. The initial positioning of thetie bar824 on thefirst gear804 may be initially indicated as the at 0° location. The initial position of thetie bar824 on thesecond gear806 may also be initially indicated as the at 0° location where thetie bar824 extends in a linear direction between the first and

second gears

804,806 proximate to the circumference of each of the first and

second gears

804,806 respectively.

Thesecond alley light808 is initially positioned for transmission of light outwardly from thehousing780 opposite to the location of thetie bar824. Thesecond alley light808 is positioned for light transmission at a location approximately 180° from thetie bar824 on thesecond gear806.

As themotor794 is engaged, thefirst gear804 may be rotated in either a clockwise or counter clockwise direction relative to thehousing780. A clockwise rotation of thefirst gear804 will be described herein for transfer of motion to thesecond gear806 andthird gear810. Alternatively, themotor794 may be configured to rotate thefirst gear804 in a clockwise direction for a desired period of time or distance, and then reverse directions for counterclockwise rotation of thesecond gear806 for a desired period of time or distance. In an oscillating sequence thefirst gear804 may be initially rotated 90° in a clockwise direction or counter clockwise direction and then the direction of rotation may be reversed for rotation of 90° or 180°, whereupon rotation may again be reversed for continued rotation of either 90° or 180° in the initial direction.

In a 360° rotation cycle of thefirst gear804 in a clockwise direction, motion is transferred to thesecond gear806 andthird gear810 in a push-pull configuration through thetie bar824. Clockwise rotation of thefirst gear804 from a position of 0° to a position of approximately 90° causes thesecond gear806 to be pulled by thetie bar824 moving the position of the second alley light808 from an initial position of 180° to a position of approximately 270°. Continued rotation of thefirst gear804 from a position at 90° to a 180° location preferably causes thesecond gear806 to be pushed by thetie bar824 causing thesecond alley light808 to be rotated in a reverse direction from a 270° position back to a 180° position. Continued rotation of thefirst gear804 in a clockwise direction from a position 180° to a 270° location, in turn causes thetie bar824 to pull thesecond gear806 causing thesecond alley light808 to continue to be rotated in a reverse direction from a position of 180° to a 90° location. Continued rotation of thefirst gear804 in a clockwise direction from a 270° position to a 360° or initial position in turn causes thetie bar824 to push thesecond gear806 causing thesecond alley light808 to reverse directions to be rotated from a 90° position to an initial or starting position of 180°.

Rotational motion is also, in turn, transferred to thethird gear810 due to the coupling engagement with thesecond gear806. The rotational motion of thethird gear810 relative to thesecond gear806 is in the opposite direction. The initial positioning of the take-down light700 on thethird gear810 is offset relative to thesecond alley light808. The initial positioning of thesecond ally light808 may be indicated as 180° and the initial position of the take-down light700 may be initially indicated as 270°. Thethird gear810 and the take-down light700 are, therefore, initially rotated from 270° in a counter clockwise direction to approximately 180°. The rotation of thethird gear810 and the take-down light700 is then reversed from 180° back to 270° and then to 360° where rotation may be reversed back to 270°. The take-down light700 therefore wags and oscillates between 360° or 0° to 180° through an initial positioning of 270°. Simultaneously, thesecond alley light808 is wagged or oscillated between 90° and 270° through an initial position of approximately 180°.

The offset positioning of thesecond alley light808 relative to the take-down light700 prevents obstructed contact between the twolight modules784 permitting free rotational motion therebetween. The offset positioning of thesecond alley light808 relative to the take-down light700 enables the utilization of oversized or enlargedLED light modules784 as engaged to the second or

third gears

806,810 respectively. The illumination as transmitted by theLED light modules784 may thereby be significantly increased.

Alternatively, the rotation of thesecond gear806 andthird gear810 may occur through an arc of approximately 360°. Thecontroller50 is not required to continuously illuminate either the take-down light700,first alley light800, and/orsecond alley light808. Alternatively, thefirst gear806, andthird gear810 may be rotated to a desired position such as indicated by the

numbers

820,816, and oscillated for return to an

initial position

818,812. Thecontroller50 may regulate the rotation of thegear804,second gear806, andthird gear810, for illumination of LED s786 during use as an intersection clearing light. The intersection clearing light, take-down light, and/or alley lights, are positioned inside thehousing780 proximate to the distal ends ofLED light bar760 as depicted inFIG. 63.

The intersection clearing lights, take-downlights700, and/or

alley lights

800,808, may additionally be activated by a switch for regulation of rotation to a desired angle where upon rotation may be terminated. In this situation, the take-downlights700, and/or

alley lights

800,808, may be utilized in a manner similar to a spotlight integral to a vehicle and as controlled by an operator. Thecontroller50 or switch may be utilized to provide any angle of illumination within an arc of approximately 180° relative to a vehicle between an angle of approximately 45° forwardly and inwardly to an approximate angle of 135° rearwardly and outwardly relative to the front and sides of a vehicle. Thecontroller50 or switch may also be utilized to provide any desired angle of illumination for the alley lights800,808, within an arc of approximately 140° relative to a vehicle between an angle of approximately 70° forwardly and outwardly to an approximate angle of 70° rearwardly and outwardly from the sides of an emergency vehicle. A wide area of illumination to the front and sides of an emergency vehicle is thereby provided by the alley lights800,808, and take-down light700 either independently and/or in combination.

In an alternative embodiment, a plurality of take-downlights700 may be positioned adjacent to each other and disposed along the longitudinal length of alight bar760 above thefront face764 and/orrear face766. Alternatively, the take-downlights700 may be formed of a plurality ofLED light modules784 positioned adjacent to each other along the entire length of thefront face764 and/orrear face766 of alight bar760. (FIG. 63.) TheLED light sources336,786 in this embodiment are connected to thecontroller50. Thecontroller50 may selectively illuminate one ormore LED lights336,786 to provide any desired intensity of light to be used in a take-down situation by law enforcement personnel.

As depicted inFIGS. 31,32, and63, a single row of LEDlight sources336,786 is disposed onfront face764 andrear face766 ofLED light bar760. Alternatively, a plurality of rows and/or columns of LEDlight sources336,786 as generally illustrated and described in relation toFIGS. 7,9,12,34, and35, may be utilized onfront face764 and/orrear face766. A linear culminator assembly484 (FIGS. 31,32), or aculminator assembly392 in the form of an array (FIG. 26), may be positioned adjacent to LEDlight sources336,786. Alternatively,reflectors350 such as mirrors as illustrated inFIGS. 37-39, may be engaged tofront face764 and/orrear face766 adjacent to LEDlight sources336,786.

Atransparent surface782 is preferably in sealing engagement with thehousing780 to prevent moisture or other contamination from adversely affecting the performance of the take-down light700 and/or the alley lights800,808. Thetransparent surface782 is preferably of sufficient strength and durability to not fracture, break, and/or fail when exposed to adverse environmental and/or weather conditions including but not limited to the exposure to rock or gravel strikes.

Referring toFIGS. 59 and 60, a personal LEDwarning signal light730 is shown. The personal LEDwarning signal light730 is formed of a plurality of individual LEDlight sources732 which may provide illumination in any desired color. The individual LEDlight sources732 may be selectively illuminated by acontroller50 for the provision of any desired combination or pattern of visually distinctive warning light signals as earlier described.

The personal LEDwarning signal light730 may be formed of columns or rows of individual LEDlight sources732 which may in turn be sequentially illuminated to provide the appearance of a scrolling or rotating light source.

The individuallight sources732 may be formed in an array, panel, or single line, and may include an adhesive backing as earlier described. Further, theindividual LED sources732 may be angularly offset as depicted withinFIG. 14 to maximize light output along a desired line of illumination. The personal LEDwarning signal light730 includes a circuit board orLED mounting surface482 which may be electrically coupled to acontroller50. The types of lighting effects available for illumination by the personalwarning signal light730 include but are not necessarily limited to the types of light signals and/or combinations of light signals as earlier described.

The personal LEDwarning signal light730 may also include a culminator orreflector370 as earlier described disposed about theLED light sources732. The culminator orreflector370 preferably assists in the maximization of light output. Theculminator370 may also be angularly offset to conform to any angular offset of LEDlight sources732.

The personal LEDwarning signal light730 may be the approximate size of a hand held calculator for convenient transportation within the pocket of law enforcement personnel. The personal LEDwarning signal light730 may also be enclosed within a hard or softsided case734. Alternatively, thecase734 may have an exterior appearance designed to secrete the function of the personal LEDwarning signal light730. For example, thecase734 may be configured to have a first area having a removable or retractable cover to reveal theLED light sources732. Alternatively, thecase734 may be formed to resemble an article used to transport tobacco products similar to a cigarette case. Alternatively, thecase734 may include a removable or retractable face which is designed in appearance to resemble a hand held calculator, personal electronics device, and/or electronic address book.

The personalLED warning light730 includes a plug inadaptor736 which is used to establish an interface for coupling engagement to the cigarette lighter receiver of a motor vehicle. A low voltage power supply is thereby available for the personal LEDwarning signal light730 when used in conjunction with a motor vehicle. The plug inadaptor736 may also resemble a power cord for a cellular telephone thereby hiding the function of the personal LEDwarning signal light730. Alternatively, the personal LEDwarning signal light730 may be powered by one ormore batteries738.

During use, the personal LEDwarning signal light730 may be withdrawn and opened to expose afirst panel740 and asecond panel742. Thefirst panel740 and thesecond panel742 are joined together by ahinge744. Following opening, the plug inadaptor736 may be engaged to either thefirst panel740 or to thesecond panel742 and to a cigarette lighter receptacle for the provision of low voltage power to the personal LEDwarning signal light730. The personal LEDwarning signal light730 may then be placed upon thedashboard746 of a motor vehicle or held for use as a warning signal light by undercover law enforcement personnel.

Thefirst panel740 and thesecond panel742 may each include a tacky and/oradhesive base748 which functions to assist in the retention of the personal LEDwarning signal light730 upon thedashboard746.

Thepersonal warning signal730 may include aframe830 having aback surface832. Theframe830 includes alip834 which is adapted for positioning and retention of atransparent protector836. Thetransparent protector836 is water resistant and prevents water and/or other contamination from adversely affecting the performance of theLED light sources732. Theframe830 also includes a pair ofparallel sides838,hinge side840, andsupport side842. Thesupport side842 may be angled to facilitate positioning upon the dashboard of a vehicle.

An opaque cover orsecond panel742 includes a receivingledge844 which is adapted for nesting and covering engagement relative to theparallel sides838 during closure of the second panel oropaque cover742 over thetransparent protector836. Thesecond panel742 therefore conceals theLED light sources732 during periods of non-use. The personalwarning signal light730 may also have a first nested closed position and a second open signaling position as indicated inFIGS. 59 and 60. A switch may also be provided which is adapted to detect the closure of thesecond panel742 relative to thefirst panel740 for termination of power and illumination of theLED light sources732. The personalwarning signal light730 may also include a power saving feature to prolong the utility and life ofinternal batteries738.

An electrical receiving port having a cover may be placed in either thesupport side842 or the tacky oradhesive base748. The electrical receiving port is adapted to receivingly engage aplug848 of apower cord850. Thepower cord850 may includes anadapter736 for insertion into the cigarette lighter receiving port. Alternatively, theplug848 may be inserted into an electrical receiving port integral to either theopaque exterior surface846 and/orframe830.

The personalwarning signal light730 includes aninternal controller50 as earlier described. Alternatively, the personalwarning signal light730 may include an external programmable controller. A selector switch may also be provided for activation of pre-stored and/or programmed light signals for illumination during use of the personalwarning signal light730.

The personalwarning signal light730 may be configured in any shape including, but not necessarily limited to, square, rectangular, round, and/or oval. A reduced thickness dimension may be provided following closure of thesecond panel742 relative to theframe830 for placement in the first nesting closed position. Thesecond panel742 also functions to provide for sealing engagement to theframe830. TheLED light sources732 are rugged and shock absorbent facilitating transportation and prolonged usefulness by an individual.

Referring toFIGS. 63 and 64 anLED light bar760 is disclosed. TheLED light bar760 may be formed of a base762 which extends longitudinally, traversing the roof of an emergency vehicle. Thebase762 includes afront face764 and arear face766. Each of the front and rear faces764,766 includeLED illumination devices336,786 which may be configured similarly to themodular light support480 identified and described relative toFIGS. 31-32. TheLED illumination devices336,786 along thefront face764 andrear face766 are positioned within the interior of thebase762 and are enclosed therein by a transparentprotective cover860 to minimize contamination and/or exposure to water. The transparentprotective cover860 may be placed into sealing engagement with either thefront face764 and/orrear face766 through the use of a gasket and/or sealant or any other preferred mechanical and/or chemical sealing mechanism. Theprotective cover860 as engaged to thefront face764 andrear face766 is formed of a transparent material such as plastic, and/or glass to provide for transmission of light from individual LEDlight sources336,786 for observation by an individual.

As earlier depicted with reference toFIGS. 31 and 32 theLED light sources336,786 may be formed into modular units which may be regularly spaced along thefront face764 andrear face766. TheLED light sources336,786 integral to thefront face764 and/orrear face766 are each positioned within a

culminator

370,484 as earlier described. The reflector devices as depicted and described with reference toFIGS. 37-39 may be incorporated into modular light supports480 for utilization along afront face764 and/orrear face766 ofLED light bar760. The number of light emitting diodelight sources336,786 forming each individualmodular unit480 may vary. Eachmodular unit480 may include between 2 and 20LED light sources336,786. Each of theLED light sources336,786 is electrically connected to acircuit board346 havingheat sink wells344 as earlier described in reference toFIG. 36. The construction of the modular light supports480 and LEDlight sources336,786 facilitates ease of color modification and versatile alternative configurations for light transmission from thelight bar760. TheLED light sources336,786 as integral to the base762 proximate to thefront face764 and/orrear face766 may be formed of one or more colors. The modular light supports480 also may preferably include electrical couplers orconnectors790 as earlier described.

Eachmodular light support480, and/or individualLED light source336,786 is in electrical communication with thecontroller50. Thecontroller50 regulates the illumination of LEDlight sources336,786 to provide any desired color, pattern, combination of patterns, and/or types of light signals as earlier identified. Thecontroller50 may also preferably regulate the illumination ofmodules480 and/or individual LEDlight sources336,786 independently between thefront face764 and therear face766. Thecontroller50 may further regulate the individual illumination of LEDlight sources336,786 within sections and/or sectors along thefront face764 independently with respect to each other and independently with respect to therear face766. Thecontroller50 may also regulate the illumination of LEDlight sources336,786 in any desired individual combination, pattern, or sector, for the provision of an infinite variety of different types of light signals. For example, one portion of thefront face764 may transmit a stroboscopic light signal. Simultaneously and/or alternatively, another portion or sector of thefront face764 may transmit a different colored flashing light signal at varying time intervals. Alternatively, a third portion of thefront face764 may transmit a third color of a pulsating modulated or variable lighting effect. The examples illustrated herein are, by no means, restrictive of the infinite variety of combinations or types of light signals which may be regulated by thecontroller50 during use of theLED light bar760.

Thecontroller50 is in electrical communication with the modular light supports480,LED light sources336,786 take-downlights700, alley lights800,808, andpod illumination devices770 during use of theLED light bar760. Thecontroller50 may therefore regulate the modularlight sources480, take-downlights700, alley lights800,808, andpod illumination devices770 either simultaneously, independently, and/or in combination. Further, thecontroller50 is also in electrical communication with rotational and/or reflector devices such as earlier described with reference to the intersection clearing light. Thecontroller50 may also be in electrical communication with the reflector as described in detail with respect toFIG. 47 which may be positioned within thepod illumination devices770.

Light bar

760 includesbase762 which is elevated with respect to the roof of an emergency vehicle to enhance visualization during use.

The LED take-down light700 and/or

alley lights

800,808 may be integral to the base762 proximate to each of the first and second ends862,864 oflight bar760. Anend cap772 may be secured to the first and second ends862,864 of thebase762. Eachend cap772 encloses the take-down light700 and

alley lights

800,808. The end caps772 may be elevated above or alternatively may rest upon the roof of an emergency vehicle and may assist to support the longitudinally extendingbase762. The end caps772 provide for visualization of theLED light bar760 from the sides of an emergency vehicle. Eachend cap772 may have the same width dimension as the base762 or have larger or smaller dimension as dictated by manufacturing and performance considerations.

Supports

774 extend angularly upwardly and forwardly from thebase762 for elevation and of thepod illumination devices770 above thebase762. Thesupports774 preferably are substantially vertical and are angled inwardly and forwardly toward thefront face764 of theLED light bar760. Thesupports774 may be formed of any material provided that the essential functions, features, and attributes described herein are not sacrificed. Thesupports774 are aerodynamically designed to improve the efficiency for theLED light bar760.

Eachpod illumination device770 is elevated by at least one and preferably twosupports774. The elevation of thepod illumination devices770 above thelight bar760 enhances illumination source differentiation of light signals as observed by individuals.

Thepod illumination devices770 may either be circular, oval, square, rectangular, or any other shape. Thepod illumination devices770 include LEDlight sources336,786 as earlier described. The visualization of theLED light bar760 is enhanced by thepod illumination device770 permitting observation at all angles relative to an emergency vehicle.

Thepod illumination devices770 include aframe866 comprised of metal, plastic, rubber, and/or any other sturdy material. Theframe866 includes a transparentprotective cover868 which functions to prevent moisture or other contamination from adversely affecting the performance of the LEDlight source336,786. The transparentprotective cover868 is formed of a material such as plastic or glass to permit light transmission therethrough during use of thelight bar760.

EachLED light bar760 has at least one and preferably two or morepod illumination devices770 for the provision of warning light signals for observation by individuals. Each of thepod illumination devices770 are disposed proximate to either thefirst end862 and/orsecond end864 oflight bar760. Alternatively, a pod illumination device may be centrally disposed between thefirst end862 andsecond end864 atlight bar760.

Acontroller50 is preferably in electrical communication with theLED light sources336,786 integral to thepod illumination devices770 to provide for an infinite variety unique lighting signals as earlier described. Thecontroller50 may independently illuminate thepod illumination devices770 relative to each other or provide different light signals within eachpod illumination device770.

Eachpod illumination device770 may include individual columns and rows of multicolored LEDlight sources336,786. Each individual light emitting diodelight source336,786 integral to thepod illumination device770 may also be enclosed within a culminator and/or

reflector

370,484 as earlier described having reflective and/or transparent sections. Alternatively eachpod illumination device770 may also include a reflector assembly as illustrated and earlier described withinFIG. 47 which includes a

culminator

370,534 and rotational mechanism ormotor794 as positioned within theframe866. Themotor794 provides rotational or oscillating motion to thereflector532. Alternatively, reflector devices as earlier described with reference toFIGS. 37-42, and44-45 may be incorporated intopod illumination devices770. Thepod illumination devices770 also may include aframe866 having a cover or top874 which is removable to provide access to either a reflector assembly, culminator, modular light supports480 and/or LEDlight sources336,786 for repair or replacement therein. The cover or top874 may be affixed to thepod illumination devices770 by any conventional means including but not limited to the use of bolts, screws and/or wing nuts.

Alternatively, thepod illumination devices770 may include flexible circuit boards as illustrated and described inFIGS. 4,5, and12. Thepod illumination devices770 andframe866 provide an aerodynamic encasement for theLED light sources336,786. Additionally, theLED light sources336,786 may be angularly offset as previously described in reference toFIG. 14 to enhance visualization of the emitted light signal along a desired line of sight.

TheLED light bar760 provides an aesthetically pleasing visual shape representative of a high technology appearance to enhance the visualization of a law enforcement vehicle. TheLED light bar760 includes an aerodynamic design to reduce drag during use of an emergency vehicle.

Thepod illumination devices770 may include modular light supports480,606 as earlier described in reference toFIGS. 23-25,31-32, and51-58 herein. Alternatively, the light emitting diodelight sources336,786 as disposed inpod illumination devices770 may be configured in any desired shape or panel as earlier described in reference toFIGS. 4-10,12,14,23-25,31-32,34,35, and37-46, herein. TheLED light sources336,786 may therefore be replaceable along with a circuit board, or alternatively, the entirepod illumination device770 may be replaceable.

If modular

LED light sources

480,606 are utilized withinpod illumination devices770 then rotational mechanisms as described inFIGS. 21,22,40-42,44,47,51,63, and/or65, may be utilized individually, exclusively, and/or in combination withcontroller50 to provide a desired rotating and/or oscillating warning signal light. Alternatively, the module

light sources

480,606 are not required to be utilized in association with a rotational device where thecontroller50 may be exclusively utilized to selectively illuminate individual and/or combinations of LED s336,786 to provide a desired type of warning light signal.

If non-modularlight sources336,786 are utilized withinpod illumination device770, then rotational mechanisms as described inFIGS. 21,22,40-42,44,47,51,63, and65, may be utilized individually, exclusively, and/or in combination with acontroller50 to provide a desired rotating and/or oscillating warning light signal. Alternatively, the non-modular LEDlight sources336,786 are not required to be utilized in association with a rotational device where the controller may be exclusively utilized to selectively illuminate individual and/or combinations of LED s336,786, to provide a desired type of warning light signal.

TheLED light bar760 may be constructed and arranged as a one piece unit including thebase762, end caps772, supports774, andpod illumination devices770. Alternatively, the elements of thebase762,pod illumination devices770, end caps772, and supports774 may be releasably secured to each other by any desired affixation mechanism.

The rotational light signal provided by theLED light bar760 and particularly thepod illumination devices770 may be provided by mechanical rotational elements as earlier described, mirror rotational elements, and/or acontroller50 for selectively illuminating individual columns and/or rows oflight emitting diodes336,786.

In an alternative embodiment, an LED light support having at least one LED illumination source may simultaneously produce and emit a warning light signal and a systematic information transfer through encrypted/pulsed light or SIT-TEL pulsated light signal, within the warning light signal where the SIT-TEL pulsed light signal is not visible to an unaided eye. The SIT-TEL pulsed light signal functions as a free space carrier of information for processing by a receiver unit. The SIT-TEL pulsed light signal may also be used independently and is not required to be incorporated as a distinguishable component of a warning light signal. In this instance the SIT-TEL pulsated light signal appears as a continuous light source.

Light emitting diodes may be manufactured to emit light at any wavelength from infrared to visible. Therefore, an infinite variety of colors of different wavelengths of LED s are available. LED s also are extremely flexible in the provision of an instantaneous light signal which minimizes and/or eliminates carry over illumination after termination of power. For example, the application of power to a traditional light source frequently causes electrons to pass through a filament which in turn causes the temperature of the filament to increase emitting the visible light. The termination of power to a traditional light source having a filament does not immediately terminate the provision of light. A carry over illumination effect continues as the traditional light source filament cools. The traditional light source filament therefore is not flexible for receipt of a very rapid pulsed power supply for transmission of a pulsed light signal.

An LED light source however is well adapted to receive a rapid pulsed power supply for the provision of a pulsed light signal. In fact, LED s have the capability to pulse thousands of times per second where the rapid pulses are unobservable to an unaided human eye. In these instances, the pulsed LED light source will appear to an individual to be a constant light signal where the pulses are not recognizable. The flexibility to provide a pulsed light signal may also be incorporated into and be a simultaneously non-recognizable portion of a warning light signal. Previously identified types of warning light signals include, but are not necessarily limited to, flashing, stroboscopic, modulated, variable, pulsating, revolving, oscillating, alternating, sequencing, arrows, characters, and/or any other type of warning light signal. A dual function light signal may be provided including an observable warning light signal and secondly a communication carrier which is not normally observable within the warning light signal.

The duty cycle and/or power to be provided to an LED light source is regulated by a controller which includes a rapid switch to enable the rapid pulsation of electrical current to the LED light source, which in turn causes the provision of a pulsating light. Simultaneously, the controller may also regulate an observable light signal for illumination in minutes, seconds, and/or fractions of seconds to provide a desired type of unique light effect.

Pulsated light signals may function as a means for free space communication of information particularly in substitution for radio frequency transmissions which have been strictly regulated by the Federal Communications Commission. The FCC has significantly limited the availability of wavelengths of radio frequency transmissions and has restricted zones of use of radio frequency transmissions to eliminate interference issues which may cause a safety concern to individuals. The accessibility to radio frequency signaling devices and shortage of available wavelengths of radio signals necessitates substitute avenues of communication such as the transmission and reception of pulsated light signals. The use of pulsed LED air to air light communication signals eliminates the necessity for expensive cable, wire, and/or fiber optic communication devices and the corresponding infrastructure associated with traditional forms of communication.

No device is known which replaces conventional lighting with a pulsed light communication device for transfer of information in a community or residential setting. A need exists for the use of general lighting replaced by communicating lights which are more durable, reliable, and fulfill the requirements of the conventional lighting, while functioning as a communication channel in free space. The LED SIT-TEL illumination sources803 may digitally communicate signals, and thereceivers818819 enable communication from device to device through already existing light sources and systems, i.e., street lights, houses, etc., to create a free flow of communication using free space throughout the community/population centers. The SIT-TEL pulsed light signals are not limited to use with emergency communication. The SIT-TELLED illumination sources803 generally may be formed of solid state light components capable of high speed switching which are able to sustain single or multi-plex channels of communication while appearing as a regular light. The SIT-TELLED illumination sources803 thereby fulfill the requirements of conventional and non-conventional lighting as well as emergency or warning light systems.

The SIT-TEL LED pulsed light signal system in general is formed of anLED support801 having one or more firstLED illumination devices803 electrically coupled thereto. TheLED support801 may be formed in any shape as earlier described. TheLED support801 may also be stationary and/or secured to arotational device804805 as earlier described.

The firstLED illumination sources803 may be comprised of a single LED which has been selected for transmission of a specific wavelength of emitted visible or nonvisible light. Each firstLED illumination source803 may also be positioned to the interior of aculminator reflector assembly807 as earlier described. Alternatively, a stationary and/orrotatable reflector809 may be positioned proximate to the firstLED illumination source803 to reflect a pulsed light signal along a desired line of sight, vector, and/or path.

TheLED support801 may alternatively be formed of a plurality of first LED s803 having the same or different wavelengths of emitted visible or nonvisible light. TheLED support801 may also be organized intospecific sectors811 of select firstLED illumination sources803 of the same or different wavelengths of visible or nonvisible light.

TheLED support801 and the firstLED light sources803 are electrically coupled to a power source813 as regulated through acontroller815. The power source813 may be a low voltage, low current power supply and may include a rechargeable battery capable of receiving recharge through coupling to asolar energy cell817. Other sources of electrical power may be suitable substitutes herein. Thecontroller815 regulates and/or modulates the duty cycle to be exposed to the individual firstLED light sources803 for the creation of a desired type and/or pattern of warning light signal. Thecontroller815 also preferably regulates and/or modulates the duty cycle to be supplied to the individual firstLED illumination sources803 for the creation of a desired type and/or pattern of SIT-TEL pulsed light signal. A variable duty cycle may also be applied to the firstLED light sources803 through thecontroller815 as well as regulation of the type or combination of distinct types of light signals as earlier described. In addition, the same types and/or combinations of types of light signals whether warning light signals and/or SIT-TEL pulsated light signals, may be provided simultaneously and/or independently of each other withindifferent sectors811 of theLED light support801.

TheLED light support801 may include an almost infinite variety of individual firstLED light sources803 as configured in any combination, sector, color, and/or pattern. A request by an operator for a particular color or wavelength of LED pulsating or warning light signal may therefore be provided through thecontroller814815, which selectively illuminates a desired and recognizable combination of individual firstLED light source803 wavelengths to provide the composite light signal. The combination of independent firstLED illumination sources803 by thecontroller815 is particularly useful in the creation of white light which may be formed of a plurality of individualLED light source803 wavelengths, where each individual firstLED light source803 is an independent channel of pulsed light. A composite white light signal may therefore include in excess of 100 channels of independent and distinct wavelengths of pulsed firstLED light sources803 where each wavelength of firstLED light sources803 is pulsating at an approximate rate of 1000 pulses per second. The rapid rate of pulsation for the firstLED light sources803, produces a staggering volume of information for receipt by asecond controller827. Naturally, a significant number ofsecond receivers823 may be required to receive all transmitted information. It may also be preferable to have the number ofsecond receivers823 equal or exceed the number of wavelength channels utilized by the firstLED illumination sources803 for transmission of information.

TheLED light support801 also includes afirst receiver819 which is electrically coupled to aconverter821. Theconverter821 is coupled to thecontroller815. Thefirst receiver819 is capable of recognizing and receiving a SIT-TEL signal which may be transmitted either as a directional and/or non-directional pulsated light signal. The operational range for thefirst receiver819 and the firstLED illumination sources803 is dependent upon the environmental conditions such as humidity, air pressure, air temperature, and pollution factors. It is anticipated that in good environmental conditions that the effective operational range of thefirst receiver819 and firstLED illumination sources803 will exceed one half mile and extend to three miles or more.

Thefirst receiver819 is constructed and arranged to receive SIT-TEL LED pulsed light signals as generated by a second independent LED illumination source(s)829 having a recognizable wavelength. The received SIT-TEL LED pulsated light signal is converted into a digital signal by aconverter821 for communication to thecontroller815. Thecontroller815 receives the converted digital signal for processing and extraction of transmitted information to respond to an interrogation or information transmission request. Thecontroller815 continues to process the received digital signal for preparation of an appropriate responsive signal. At the direction of an individual thecontroller815 then communicates the responsive signal to theconverter821 which in turn converts the responsive signal to a series of pulses for transmission from the firstLED illumination source803 as a responsive pulsed SIT-TEL LED optical free space communication signal.

The responsive SIT-TEL LED pulsed light signal in turn is received by asecond receiver823 as coupled to asecond converter825,second controller827, and secondLED illumination device829. Thesecond receiver823,second converter825, and thesecond controller827 proceed to translate and process the SIT-TEL pulsed light signal containing communications which originated from thefirst controller815.

Thefirst controller815 and the first LED individuallight sources803 as well as thesecond controller827 and secondLED illumination sources829 are constructed and arranged to regulate the transmission of an infinite variety of SIT-TEL pulsed LED free space optical light signals. The types of SIT-TEL LED pulsed optical light signals may include but are not necessarily limited to pre-stored characters, numbers, and/or words, and/or terms as identified by an assigned combination of long or short pulses or bar code type or form of signal803.1,803.2,803.3,803.1a,803.1b,803.1c,803.2a,803.2b,803.2c,803.3a,803.3b, and803.3c. (FIGS. 86-87C.) The pulsed LED light signals may be generated so that each pulsed LED light signal has an identical duration as a portion of a SIT-TEL communication. Alternatively, the pulsed LED light signals may have different durations. Any number of pulsed light signals having the same or different durations may be grouped into a signal packet. Each packet or combination of signals may be assigned a character, number, or other information as data within a memory which may be integral to acontroller815. Individual packets of grouped pulsed LED SIT-TEL light signals may be combined into a message, word, and/or character for processing and/or translation by asecond controller827 for communication of information to an individual. Thefirst illumination sources803 and thesecond illumination sources829 are constructed and arranged to emit and/or transmit thousands of pulses of LED light within a time period of approximately one second. The pulsation rate for the SIT-TEL LED pulsed light signal is not observable to the unaided eye. The volume of available combinations of SIT-TEL LED pulsed light signals within a very short period of time enables transmission of a significant amount of information subject to processing via a first or

second controller

815,827.

The first and

second controllers

815,827 respectively, each include a memory having stored software and data files for processing of received SIT-TEL LED pulsed light signals. The memory and available stored data facilitate the immediate and automatic recognition of an environmental condition, parameter, or generation of a pre-stored SIT-TEL pulsed light response. One example of recognition of an environmental condition or situation is when information is desired from a source having an interrogating orsecond controller827 which requests through a SIT-TEL pulsed light signal the identity and/or status of afirst controller815. The responsivefirst controller815 upon receipt of a verified interrogation SIT-TEL signal request initiates a responsive SIT-TEL LED pulsed light signal which communicates the identification and/or other requested information. A second example of recognition of an environmental condition and/or situation is when afirst receiver819 encounters a continuously emitted SIT-TEL LED pulsed light signal which may function as a warning to trigger an audible or visual alarm to thefirst controller815, to minimize safety risks to individuals.

Afirst controller815 and asecond controller827 each preferably contain software establishing a recognition or handshake protocol for acknowledgment, receipt, and transmission of information optically through free space SIT-TEL LED pulsed light signals. The handshake protocol initiates upon thefirst receiver819 acknowledging being tagged, or receiving an initial pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal from asecond controller827. A responsive signal is then generated by thefirst controller815 for transmission to thesecond receiver823. An acknowledgment message is returned by thesecond controller827 to thefirst receiver819. A preselected pattern of acknowledgments are interchanged to verify readiness for transmission and receipt of desired information through the transmission of free space pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals. Following transmission of the demanded information and/or data, additional verification and/or acknowledgment transmissions may occur between thefirst receiver819 and thesecond receiver823 prior to the termination of contact through the use of a sign off protocol.

The first and

second receivers

819,823 are constructed and arranged to recognize certain wavelengths of incoming pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals. The first and

second receivers

819,823 may be constructed of a plurality of photo detectors, photo diodes, optical transceivers, and/or photo detecting elements to simultaneously, individually, and/or sequentially receive transmissions of SIT-TEL LED pulsed light signals of differing wavelengths. The first and

second controllers

815,827 respectively may also be coupled to an automatic and/ormanual scanner831 or dial which may be manipulated to tune into another wavelength of transmitted SIT-TEL LED pulsed light signals. For example, an individual observing a predominantly red SIT-TEL LED light signal who is expecting to receive a transmitted pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal may dial and/or tune afirst receiver819 to a red spectrum wavelength to locate the signal. Similarly, adjustments are available for other observed colors. The scanning for pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals may also be automated by thescanner831. Thescanner831 and/or first and

second receivers

819,823 are constructed and arranged to independently and/or simultaneously receive directional and/or non-directional pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals for transmission and communication of information between geographically removed

LED illumination sources

803,829.

The use of a combination and/or independent warning light signal and/or pulsated light signal is particularly applicable for use in motor vehicles. Thelight support801 may be integral and/or fixed to alight bar833 as engaged to a motor vehicle or emergency vehicle835. During use of the SIT-TEL communications system, where information is transmitted upon carrier pulsated free space SIT-TEL LED light signals, thesecond receiver823,second controller827, and secondLED illumination devices829 may be integral and/or attached to thelight bar833. Thefirst receiver819,first controller815, and firstLED illumination sources803 are preferably integral with and/or affixed to a motorvehicle license plate837. Thelicense plate837 may include a recessed area839 or a transmission opening841 which is adapted to receive thefirst receiver819 and the firstLED illumination sources803. Atransparent cover843 preferably traverses the recessed area839 and/or transmission opening841 to protect thefirst receiver819 and firstLED illumination sources803 from contamination during use of the SIT-TEL pulsated light system. A battery845 and/orpower connector847 may be coupled to thefirst controller815 which is located upon the non-exterior face of thelicense plate837. The battery845 may be a lithium battery having an approximate life span of five years or more. Alternatively, the battery845 may be rechargeable through the use of solar powered cells or other electrical source. Further, thepower connector847 may be coupled to a vehicle electrical system for the provision of power to thefirst controller815,first receiver819, and firstLED illumination sources803. Thetransparent cover843 is formed of a sufficiently sturdy transparent material to prevent tampering and/or disconnection of thefirst receiver819 or the firstLED illumination sources803.

The firstLED illumination sources803,first controller815, andfirst receiver819 as integral to thelicense plate837 are conspicuously positioned upon a motor vehicle which is potentially subject to interrogation by law enforcement officers within law enforcement vehicles.

Thefirst controller815 may additionally be electrically connected to afirst signaling device849 which may be attached to the dashboard of the motor vehicle. (FIG. 81.) Alternatively, thefirst signaling device849 may be wired into a radio for a motor vehicle. Thefirst signaling device849 is constructed and arranged to receive a signal from thefirst controller815 during situations in which thefirst receiver819 has detected a traffic warning message as generated by a SIT-TEL pulsed LED signal emitted from the secondLED illumination devices829 as generated by asecond controller827 within a law enforcement vehicle835. Thefirst signaling device849 thereby provides avisual LED signal1042 to the occupants of a motor vehicle as to the presence of a police officer necessitating clearance of a roadway. (FIG. 82.) Alternatively, thefirst signaling device849 may be coupled and/or electrically connected to the radio of a motor vehicle to provide an interrupt switch. Activation of the interrupt switch may cause termination of internal radio or stereo transmissions within a passenger vehicle. Alternatively, the activation of the interrupt switch may permit activation of a database having pre-recorded oral communications for broadcast over a speaker system to orally advise a passenger of a motor vehicle as to the presence of an emergency situation necessitating the clearance of a roadway. Alternatively, during periods when a motor vehicle radio has not been activated, thefirst controller815 may activate thefirst signaling device849 to engage a motor vehicle radio for the provision of an audible warning alarm. Thefirst controller815 may additionally include prerecorded voice recognition messages which may be initiated by thefirst controller815 upon receipt of an appropriate signal from the secondLED illumination devices829. The audible and/or oral prerecorded signal may advise an occupant of a motor vehicle as to the presence of an emergency situation through oral communication as generated over the radio system of the vehicle. Thefirst signaling device849 may also emit a verification buzzing or alarm signal when activated by thefirst controller815 to warn an occupant of a motor vehicle as to the existence of an emergency situation.

Thefirst receiver819 may be formed of a relatively flat and thinrectangular sensor851 which may be positioned adjacent to a window within the interior of a motor vehicle. Thefirst receiver819 is preferably electrically connected to both thefirst controller815 and thefirst signaling device849. Thefirst receiver819 is preferably constructed and arranged to receive pulsed SIT-TEL LED optical signals for transmission to thefirst converter821 for communication to thefirst controller815 for processing. Thefirst receiver819 may additionally be constructed and arranged to receive a polarized pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal as may be reflecting from the interior windows of a motor vehicle. Thefirst receiver819 may be placed at any location about a motor vehicle and is not limited to affixation to alicense plate837. Thefirst receiver819 is preferably placed at a location about a motor vehicle which is easily accessible to transmitted directional and/or non-directional pulsed SIT-TEL light emitting diode signals as generated by the secondLED illumination devices829.

The secondLED illumination device829,second controller827,second receiver823, andsecond converter825 are generally attached or integral to an emergency vehicle such as a police squad automobile. The secondLED illumination device829 andsecond receiver823 may be attached to alight bar833 at a central and/or other convenient location. Thesecond controller827 may be positioned to the interior of thelight bar833 or located within the interior of the emergency vehicle or police squad automobile. A power supply such as a battery may be integral to thelight bar833. Alternatively, power may be provided to the components of thesecond controller827,second receiver823,second converter825, and secondLED illumination devices829 through the use of a removable power cord coupled to a receptacle such as a cigarette lighter, or may be hardwired to the electrical system of the emergency vehicle. The low voltage requirements for the pulsed SIT-TEL LED signaling system does not adversely affect the power parameters for the emergency vehicle. Thefirst signaling device849 may also include aswitch863 disposed at a convenient location within the interior of the emergency vehicle for activation of the pulsed SIT-TEL LED signaling and/or interrogation system. A scanner865 may also be coupled to thesecond controller827 to facilitate recognition of the wavelength of the pulsed SIT-TEL LED light.

Aselection switch867 may also be coupled to thesecond controller827 to regulate the emission of focused optics and/or wide angle directional or non-directional pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals from the secondLED light sources829. Awavelength switch869 may also be coupled to thesecond controller827 to enable adjustment or change to the wavelength of emitted pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals. An officer and/or law enforcement personnel may therefore select from an almost infinite variety of visible and/or non-visible light signals. Thesecond controller827 is preferably additionally electrically connected to a terminal871 within an emergency vehicle835 and/or police squad automobile to visually generate information observable on a screen or display by an officer. (FIG. 81.)

Alternatively, the secondLED illumination device829 and/orsecond receiver823 may alternatively be incorporated into a hand heldunit852 for use in specific targeting of motor vehicles by law enforcement personnel. (FIG. 85.) The hand heldunit852 includes ahand grasping portion854 and amain body portion856. Atrigger858 may be included in thehandle grasping portion854. Thetrigger858 enables a law enforcement officer to instantaneously and selectively activate the generation of a pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal from the secondLED illumination device829 to initiate interrogation of afirst controller815 andfirst receiver819. Themain body portion856 includes aforward end861 which is the location of the secondLED illumination device829 andsecond receiver823. Thesecond controller827,second converter825, and/or battery845 may be located in either themain body portion856 and/or thehandle grasping portion854 dependent upon space availability considerations.

Power may be provided to the hand heldunit852 through the use of a battery, power cord, having an adapter for coupling to a cigarette lighter receptacle, and/or directly hard wire connected to the electrical system of a motor vehicle835.

Thehandle grasping portion854 and/or themain body portion856 may also include aselection switch867 and/orwavelength switch869 as earlier described. A scanner865 may also be integral or connected to themain body portion856 for identification and recognition of pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals to be received by thereceiver823. The hand heldunit852 and secondLED illumination devices829 may also generate focused optics and/or a wide angle directional or non-directional pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals within the visible or non-visible spectrum. The hand heldunit852 is also electrically connected to a terminal871 within an emergency vehicle835 and/or police squad to visually generate information observable on a screen by an officer.

The features as earlier identified for the pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal system as integral to alight bar833 and/or hand heldunit852 are equally applicable to astationary unit873. It is anticipated that astationary unit873 is releasably mounted to a dashboard of an emergency vehicle through the use ofbrackets875. Thestationary unit873 may be provided with or without ahand grasping portion854. In one embodiment ahandle grasping portion854 may also be omitted and/or eliminated where thetrigger858,switch863,select switch867, and/orwavelength switch869 are preferably located on themain body portion856, at a location convenient for manipulation by an officer. A scanner865 as earlier described may also be integral or releasably coupled to thestationary unit873. Thestationary unit873 has the capability and flexibility to recognize and emit an almost infinite variety of pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals. Further, thestationary unit873 may also be connected and/or releasably coupled to a terminal871 integral to an emergency vehicle835 for a visual display of information representative of translated received pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals.

Thelicense plate837 and SIT-TEL signaling system may be encapsulated within a protective cover. Alternatively, the rear face of thelicense plate837 may be encapsulated to protect thefirst controller815,first receiver819, and firstLED illumination sources803 from damages caused by undesirable moisture, dirt, dust, and/or other foreign particles.

The rapid pulsation of electrical energy through the firstLED light sources803 potentially may generate undesirable excessive heat. A heat sink for thelicense plate837 is generally not required because the duration of illumination of a pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal, is anticipated to be sufficiently short, to avoid the build-up of excessive undesirable heat. Alternatively, thelicense plate837 and/orlight support801 may function as a heat sink to dissipate heat generated by the firstLED light sources803, during illumination of a pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal.

The firstLED light sources803 and the secondLED light sources829 are preferably positioned within a culminator and/or areflector807 as earlier described. The angle of the interior face of theculminator807 relative to horizontal, and/or the angle of the reflective face of thereflector807 relative to horizontal generally imparts a desired amount of focus for the generated pulsed SIT-TEL light signal. The focus of the generated pulsed LED light signal is also impacted by the wavelength selected to be illuminated by the

controllers

815,827 respectively.

A SIT-TEL pulsed light signal is used independently and/or in combination with an observable warning light signal to supplement awareness of an emergency situation. Law enforcement and/or emergency vehicles835 frequently utilize sirens to warn motorists as to the existence of an emergency situation. Sirens of the past have increased in decibel volume through increases in applied power. In the past, sirens have been operated by application of approximately 68 watts of power. The amount of power to sirens has significantly increased to 200 to 400 watts. The significant increase in power applied to sirens has been partially in response to the manufacture of quieter automobile interiors which has significantly reduced the volume of exterior road noise. In addition, automotive stereo systems have significantly improved, further reducing a motor vehicle occupants ability to hear an emergency siren. Siren volume has therefore increased to a point where unprotected hearing to individuals may cause injury. It is anticipated that the volume of sirens may be required to be reduced necessitating alternative avenues of communication of information related to the existence of an emergency situation. One solution to improve the recognition of the existence of an emergency situation is to position afirst receiver819 within the interior of a vehicle. The location of thefirst receiver819 is not critical due to the reflection of the pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal off the interior windows which will strike thefirst receiver819.

It is anticipated that a pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal may be used in any number of activities to facilitate the performance of law enforcement or emergency duties. The SIT-TEL LED pulsed light signal communication system may be used as an interrogation device upon a targeted motor vehicle. A law enforcement secondLED illumination device829 may be activated via aswitch863 and/or trigger858 to generate a first SIT-TEL LED pulsed light signal to be received by thefirst receiver819 as integral to alicense plate837 and/or located within a motor vehicle. (FIGS. 69-70.) The targetedfirst receiver819 then preferably generates an electrical signal to thefirst converter821 for transfer to thefirst controller815. A responsive message is generated by thefirst controller815 for transmission by the firstLED illumination sources803. The responsive pulsed light signal will include a recognizable pattern of pulsed SIT-TEL LED light which may not be observable by the unaided eye. The responsive pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal will therefore transfer basic information such as make, model, license plate number, status of license tab registrations, driving after revocation, and/or expiration of insurance, for a tagged and/or interrogated motor vehicle. The responsive SIT-TEL signal received by thesecond receiver823 of the law enforcement vehicle will be processed by thesecond controller827 for coupling to a database and/or microprocessor integral to a terminal871 within a police vehicle835. Data therefore may be instantaneously retrieved for display to law enforcement personnel related to the likely occupant and/or criminal and/or driving record of the tagged vehicle without the necessity for an officer to close distance to the suspect vehicle to permit unaided observation of thelicense plate837. The speed and ease of access to Department of Motor Vehicle information to aid an officer is therefore significantly enhanced permitting an officer to maintain a desired distance from the targeted vehicle. The use of a pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal as free space carrier of information eliminates the necessity for a law enforcement vehicle to expend significant economic resources for costly optical aids. The selection of directional or non-directional pulsed SIT-TEL LED signals also permits a law enforcement vehicle to interrogate a significant number and/or virtually all motor vehicles on a roadway to search for a stolen car and/or abduction where time is of the essence to insure safety to an individual. In addition, a passive search may be activated for the pulsed SIT-TEL light communication system to attempt to identify any motor vehicles within a particular class. The electric coupling to a processor integral to a law enforcement vehicle enables an officer to access a database to check for outstanding warrants for an individual. If information is received concerning an individual which would raise a safety concern for the law enforcement personnel then sufficient time is provided to immediately request backup prior to the initiation of a motor vehicle stop.

The pulsed SIT-TEL LED illumination system may also be used to enhance positioning and/or mapping of a travel route for an emergency vehicle835 by periodic verification of position locators within a geographic area. This feature may be particularly useful in fire safety applications. The pulsed SIT-TEL LED illumination system also provides to law enforcement personnel immediate verification that a correct vehicle has been tagged for interrogation through the issuance of a responsive pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal for transmission to and receipt by thesecond receiver823. The accuracy of law enforcement activities is thereby significantly improved.

The pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal may also be used as optical pulses to be received by afirst receiver819 to enter a security code for access to a gated community, garage, and/or secure parking lot. In these instances, the secondLED illumination sources829 generate a pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal for receipt by thefirst receiver819 which in turn is coupled to afirst controller815 and a switch to open an otherwise locked gate. The pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal may also be used by law enforcement and/or highway personnel to modify illuminated highway signs. A secondLED light source829 may generate a coded signal for modification of a stationary illuminated street sign for display of a new message.

The first and

second controllers

815,827, preferably decipher a digitized received pulsed light signal so that appropriate action may be initiated. Further, the pulsed LED lighting system may be used to verify speed and/or separation distance from a stationary second light emittingdiode illumination source829 andsecond receiver823.

In an alternative embodiment, a wide angle passive pulsed second SIT-TELLED illumination signal829 may interrogate an automobile for return of abbreviated and/or select information such as expired license plate tabs. The initial pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal may therefore be constructed and arranged to request the provision of specific information related to a motor vehicle.

In an alternative embodiment, thefirst controller815 may be electrically coupled to a motor vehicle speedometer. If the motor vehicle exceeds a certain pre-stored speed then thefirst controller815 may signal the firstLED illumination sources803 to initially generate an excessive speed signal to be received by asecond receiver823 integral to a law enforcement vehicle835.

Transportation markers such as road signs and/or mileage signs may include a pulsed SIT-TEL LED signaling device to communicate information to a motor vehicle particularly with respect to location or road detour routes.

The pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signaling system may also be incorporated into aircraft. (FIG. 71.) A necessity exists for use of the pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signaling system in an aircraft due to the shortage of available radio frequencies and the problems associated with radio frequency communication saturation in air traffic control zones and air traffic interference in controlled air zones. Further, radio interference between geographic areas provides incomplete availability or protection during use of radio frequency air warning systems.

Aircraft anti-collision warning systems are extremely important for pilot and civilian safety. A need exists to supplement known aircraft anti-collision systems with durable, low voltage, and efficient pulsed optic warning systems which are not dependent upon radio frequency communications signals. Some aircraft include transponders for use in anti-collision systems and/or TCAS systems within transponders zones proximate to an airport. Other aircraft may pass through regulated transponder zones where the aircraft does not include anti-collision transponders. The risk of air collision within restricted transponder zones is increased by the existence of non-transponder aircraft. A supplemental air anti-collision warning system is therefore needed especially where the supplemental air anti-collision warning system may be incorporated into the existing aircraft lighting systems at an insignificantly increased incremental expense.

In the past, there has generally been two different versions of TCAS where the first version indicates the bearing and relative altitude of an aircraft within a selected range of approximately 10 to 20 miles of another transponder equipped aircraft. Within this first TCAS system a traffic advisory may be issued to identify the intruding aircraft which may permit the increase or decrease of a planes altitude by up to approximately 300 feet. The initial TCAS system does not provide solutions for air anti-collision avoidance, however, the TCAS initial system provides pilots with important information to initiate a course of action to avoid collision. In a second version of TCAS, a pilot is provided with resolution advisories. This TCAS system determines the course of each aircraft and whether the aircraft is climbing, descending, or flying straight and level. The enhanced TCAS system issues resolution advisories to pilots to execute types of evasive maneuvering necessary to avoid collision. If both aircraft are equipped with the enhanced TCAS system, then the two computers on the respective aircraft offer the conflicting resolution advisories. The non-conflicting resolution advisories prevent course alternations which would effectively cancel anti-collision corrections between the two aircraft which would result in a continued threat.

In the past, aircraft emergency location warning signal systems have been extremely dependent upon the electrical power system of the aircraft. In the event of a power interruption, an emergency locator beacon frequently became inoperable or was required to operate from a limited power source as provided from the aircraft battery. The emergency locator visual beacons of the past frequently required relatively large amounts of current which depleted available battery resources in a short duration of time. A need therefore exists for an emergency locator beacon which is durable and which draws a significantly reduced amount of current to provide extended periods of illumination when the main power source for an aircraft is not available. In addition, an emergency locator beacon for an aircraft is needed where the power source may be rechargeable through the use of solar energy.

The pulsated SIT-TEL LED signaling light system may be incorporated into an aircraft876. Generally, the pulsated SIT-TEL LED signaling light system will originate from a rotating or flashingbeacon878, which is secured to the exterior of the fuselage of the aircraft876. Thebeacon878, may be fixedly positioned relative to the fuselage and/or adjustably repositionable thereon. Certain aircraft876, may utilize one ormore beacons878, within the pulsed SIT-TEL LED signaling system. Eachbeacon878, is formed of alight support801, and firstLED illumination sources803, as earlier described. In addition, the firstLED illumination sources803, may be positioned within a stationary panel or may be incorporated within arotational device805, as earlier described. Each firstLED illumination source803, is placed within aculminator assembly807, as earlier described. In the event that a stationaryLED light support801 is utilized within thebeacon878, then arotatable reflector assembly809, may be positioned over and/or adjacent to theLED light support801, to facilitate the appearance of rotation. Alternatively, theLED illumination sources803, may be selectively illuminated by thefirst controller815, to provide and impart the appearance of rotation for thebeacon878. TheLED light support801, may be organized intosectors811, of individualLED illumination sources803, having different wavelengths of emitted light as earlier described.

Thebeacon878, used in conjunction with an aircraft876, is a replacement illumination source which provides the additional feature of a pulsed SIT-TEL LED optical signaling system which may be generated at the same time as the emission of a visible light signal from thebeacon878. Thebeacon878, may therefore, incorporate dual functionality of a visible illumination source and a nonvisible pulsed signaling system for transmission of information between the firstLED illumination sources803, and a secondremoved receiver823.

TheLED light support801, as used as a component of thebeacon878, may preferably be cylindrical, octagonal, hexagonal, square, rectangular, and/or oval. In addition, theLED light support801, may be formed of flexible circuit boards as earlier described herein. The firstLED illumination sources803, may be formed of an infinite variety of colors and/or wavelength patterns to facilitate transmission of pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals. Thebeacon878, may also incorporate a strobe illumination source880, which functions as an anti-collision warning light signal for an aircraft876. Thebeacon878, strobe warning light880, firstLED illumination sources803, and anyrotational device805, are in communication with thefirst controller815, which is constructed and arranged to provide modulated light intensity to the firstLED illumination sources803. The modulated light intensity is provided to the firstLED illumination sources803, may increase or decrease the voltage or duty cycle applied to brighten or dim illumination from thebeacon878, at a predetermined rate. Additionally, thefirst controller815, regulates the rate of pulsation of the firstLED illumination sources803, during the generation of a pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal.

Thebeacon878, and/or strobe light signal880, is designed to supplement and/or replace existing aircraft lighting systems by substituting LED technology for conventional lighting sources. Thefirst controller815 is constructed and arranged to continue to offer enhanced light signals and/or any other desired type of lighting signal for use in association with an aircraft876.

Enhanced flexibility is provided to an aircraft876, lighting system through the adjustment of the duration of the duty cycle for the firstLED illumination sources803 for a pulsation rate which was previously unavailable and unknown for use in association with aircraft876, and conventional light sources.

Traditionally, thebeacon878, emits a light source having a red wavelength. The port wing of an aircraft876, also traditionally emits a red light source. The starboard wing of an aircraft876, traditionally emits a green light source. The fuselage of an aircraft876, traditionally emits a white light source. A white light source is generally utilized for landing, ground, and/or taxi lights for an aircraft876. The port and starboard wing, fuselage, and landing, ground, and/or taxi lights may be LEDillumination sources803, which in turn may be utilized as a portion of the pulsated SIT-TEL LED signaling system for an aircraft876. In addition, thebeacon878, strobe, port and starboard wings, fuselage, landing, taxi, and/or ground lights may be incorporated within filters and/or other devices to emit a polarized directional optical light signal.

The pulsated light signals as emitted from the firstLED illumination sources803, and regulated by thefirst controller815, may be either encoded and/or encrypted for receipt by thesecond receiver823, located at a remote position relative to the aircraft876. The pulsed SIT-TEL LED illumination signals as generated by the firstLED illumination sources803, communicate information as to the identity of the aircraft876, and/or the position of an aircraft876, relative to an obstacle and/or tower.

Generally, an observable light signal may be generated from the firstLED illumination sources803, as an anti-collision light source, at a rate of 20 to 60 cycles per minute. A non-observable pulsated light source may be generated by the first LED illumination signals803, at a rate of 80 hertz and preferably 100 hertz or greater. The pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal as transmitted by the firstLED illumination sources803, may be prerecorded, processed, and/or converted in real time where a combination of pulsed sequences represents characters, words, and/or numerals for communication of information via a pulsed light signal.

An operator may select from a number of pre-stored pulsed light combinations representative of information to be communicated via thefirst controller815. Alternatively, real time communications may be transmitted by pulsed light signal via the use of a keyboard or voice activated system where thecontroller815, translates the information into combinations of pulsed light signals for transmission to asecond receiver823. Asecond receiver823, preferably receives the generated pulsed LED signals for initial processing and for transfer to asecond controller827, for communication to an individual or system.

Thefirst controller815 is also constructed and arranged to continue communication of pulsed light signals containing information such as call sign, type, destination, flight plan, and/or other pre-programmed information following an incident or mishap for an aircraft876.

Thefirst controller815, is programmed to include a sufficient level of sophistication to eliminate recognition of false light signals which may occur from a source such as sunlight in analyzing and transmitting pulsed LED light signals. Thecontroller815 may also include a handshake protocol to assist in recognition of a pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal. The handshake protocol may include an alternating pre-set pattern of ultra high speed pulsating SIT-TEL LED light signals of the same or different wavelengths as may be transmitted in a pre-determined and recognizable combination prior to the transmission of information between afirst controller815, and asecond receiver823. Thesecond controller827, is preferably constructed and arranged to search for and focus upon pre-set patterns of pulsed SIT-TEL LED illumination signals to finalize the handshake recognition protocol for elimination of interference light signals. Thecontroller815, may also include any number of filters which may be manipulated by a pilot for attachment to thefirst receiver819, for elimination of undesirable light signals.

The pulsed LED signaling light system for use in association with an aircraft876, preferably augments any available TCAS system. All aircraft may be conveniently converted for generation of a pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal. The wavelength emitted in association with the pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal may be in the visible and/or non-visible spectrum and include wavelengths in the infrared and ultra-violet regions. Further, the pulsed SIT-TEL LED signaling light system may function as a backup to radio frequency transmissions utilized for anti-collision warnings. The pulsed SIT-TEL LED signaling light system in association with an aircraft876, fulfills FAA requirements of aircraft identification and collision avoidance and may continuously optically transmit a required light signal while simultaneously communicating information and/or a message within an encoded pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal.

The pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal system may also be used in an airport air traffic environment for VFR pattern verification and control. The pulsed SIT-TEL LED signal light system may additionally function as a backup to the transponder of the anti-collision TCAS system.

The pulsed SIT-TEL LED signal light system in association with an aircraft876, may be utilized to verify position, provide aircraft identification and guidance, act as a proximity warning or anti-collision indicator while simultaneously providing illumination as a rotating beacon, obstruction illumination and clearance light, taxi or ground lights, and/or wing or fuselage illumination sources.

Thefirst controller815, is positioned onboard proximate to the control panel of an aircraft876, for regulation and transmission of information and/or data via the firstLED illumination sources803. Thecontroller815, receives converted pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals for processing to communicate information to a pilot and/or air traffic controller. Thecontroller815 preferably regulates the transmission of data via pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals for transmission to other aircraft and/or toweroptical receivers823. The initiation of the pulsed SIT-TEL LED signaling light system may occur at anytime as selected by a pilot. Alternatively, the emission of pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals may be continuous.

TheLED support801, as used within thestationary beacon878, may include any number of individual firstLED illumination sources803, each having a different wavelength. Within theLED support801, individual firstLED illumination sources803, may be collected within a specific region and/orsector811 and controlled as a group by thecontroller815. Any number of collections, groups, and/orsectors810811 of firstLED illumination sources803 may be provided where each collection, group, and/orsector811 is constructed and arranged to provide either a different and distinct warning light signal and/or a different and distinct pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal. In addition, thecontroller815, is preferably constructed and arranged to selectively illuminate individual firstLED illumination sources803, and/ordifferent sectors811 for the provision of any desired combination of warning light signals and/or pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals. Thecontroller815, may therefore transmit more than a single warning light signal and more than one pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal simultaneously.

Asecond aircraft882, and/or ground location884, may have one or moresecond receivers823, where one of saidsecond receivers823, is constructed and arranged to receive a SIT-TEL light signal as generated from each group and/orsector811 ofLED s803. Asecond receiver823, andsecond controller827, may be constructed and arranged to simultaneously receive any number of transmitted pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals. Thesecond controller827, is constructed and arranged to collate, decode, translate, and organize the simultaneously received pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals into a composite decoded message.

The speed of transmission and receipt of pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals enables messages to be encrypted to provide for the secure transmission of information for receipt by a ground location884, and/orsecond aircraft882. The speed of pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals may exceed two kilohertz. The most readily apparent limitation on the transmission of encrypted messages relates to the size of the one or moresecond receivers823, for receipt of encrypted pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals. Thesecond controller827, may also include any desired passwords or verification messages to insure the validity of receipt of secure transmissions. Communication of pulsed LED light signals may be terminated by afirst controller815, at any time when an initial and/or periodic required responsive pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal is not received by thefirst receiver819, and/or the accuracy of the received SIT-TEL LED light signal is not verifiable.

Any number offirst controllers815, and/orsecond controllers827, may be interconnected and/or coupled for transmission and receipt of pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals. Further,independent controllers815, and/or827, may be assigned to transmit and/or translate a portion of a composite pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal. Security is thereby enhanced due to the partial receipt of a secure transmission by an

individual controller

815,827.

Thesecond receivers823, may be assembled in any array integral to asupport801, and/or removably positioned therefrom. In one embodiment, a circular and/or octagonal array, may be proximate to, or integral with, thelight support801. Each array includes at least onesecond receiver823, on each face of the octagonal array. Alternatively, a plurality ofsecond receivers823, may be adjacent to each other about the circumference of a circular array.

Each array ofsecond receivers823 is interfaced within an aircraft876 TCAS anti-collision system for detection of pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals. It is desirable to determine whether a transmitted pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal is occurring in a crossing direction relative to the array, where the transmitted SIT-TEL LED light signal is sequentially detected and/or tracked by adjacentsecond receivers823. If sequential detection by thesecond receivers823, occurs, then asecond aircraft882, is pursuing a crossing pattern relative to the first aircraft876, minimizing risk of collision. Alternatively, if a singlesecond receiver823, or group ofreceivers823, continuously receives a pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal and no sequential tracking is detected, then it is likely that thesecond aircraft882, is on a constant bearing decreasing range course necessitating an anti-collision warning. A visual and/or audible alarm may be provided by thesecond controller827, in the event that thesecond receivers823, and/or group ofsecond receivers823, continuously receive a transmitted SIT-TEL LED pulsed light signal for a period of time exceeding approximately three to five seconds. Thesecond controller827, may be programmed to include any desired period of time as a threshold prior to triggering of the visual and/or audio warning within the aircraft TCAS system advising of a constant bearing decelerating rangesecond aircraft882.

Thesecond controller827, may include wavelength selection devices such as dials and/orscanners831 to continuously search for transmitted pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals. Alternatively, thesecond controller827, may be coupled to a key pad888, which may be used by a pilot to select an individual wavelength for a pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal. (FIG. 84.) Alternatively, each of thesecond receivers823, may be sensitive for receipt of pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals having different wavelengths. Thesecond receivers823, preferably are flexible to receive a pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal whether wavelength specific and/or source sensitive.

Thealarm890, triggered by thesecond controller827, may advise a pilot by reciting terms such as warning and may further provide a direction of the received signal to initiate investigation to avoid collision. In this embodiment, the individualsecond receivers823, are each associated with a pre-stored site within thesecond controller827. The receipt of a pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal may therefore be traced by thesecond controller827, to asecond receiver site823, to indicate the general direction of the source of the pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal to enhance investigation by a pilot. Eachsecond receiver823, may be assigned a different site especially when two or more arrays, are utilized on an aircraft876.

In general, thebeacon878, strobe light source880, and/or aircraft lighting system receive power from the main power source for an aircraft. In addition, thebeacon878, strobe light source880, and/or aircraft lighting system may be coupled to a backup battery or power source, transported within the interior of the aircraft876. The backup battery source, may additionally include a rechargeable feature through the use of a solar power cell.

In the event of an emergency survival situation frequently the main power supply for an aircraft876, is unavailable to provide power to abeacon878, position lights, strobe880, and/or aircraft lighting system. In this instance the battery for the aircraft may be utilized to provide power to theLED beacon878, strobe880, and/or aircraft lighting system to continue to provide illumination to identify the coordinates and/or location of the aircraft876. The reduced power and/or current requirements for theLED beacon878, position lights, strobe880, and/or aircraft lighting system prolong the useful life of the aircraft battery to approximately two to three days. A backup battery transported within the interior of the aircraft876, may then be coupled to thebeacon878, strobe880, and/or aircraft lighting system to provide power once the main aircraft battery has been depleted. The backup battery is then anticipated to provide power to thebeacon878, strobe880, and/or aircraft lighting system for an additional period of time of approximately two to three days prior to recharge. The inclusion of a solar cell may enable continuous recharge of the second battery for provision of power to thebeacon878, strobe880, and/or aircraft lighting system.

Therotating beacon878, strobe880, and/or aircraft lighting system may be encased within waterproof enclosures to facilitate continuous operation in adverse conditions. In addition, thebeacon878, strobe880, and/or aircraft lighting system may further be coupled to an accelerometer which senses aircraft876, deceleration rates beyond expected parameters. An accelerometer activates the emergency beacon and may initiate a pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signal of preprogrammed information related to aircraft call sign, type of craft, and destination once an unacceptable deceleration rate is detected. The transmission of pulsed SIT-TEL LED light signals thereby augments the current emergency locator transmitter signals for identification of the location of a downed aircraft876.

The systematic information transfer through encrypted/pulsed light (SIT-TEL) system may also be incorporated into an airport tower894, and/orobstacle896, such as a power line support tower and/or radio tower. In the past radio and/or power line towers have used rotating red light beacons having traditional illumination elements such as halogen lamps and/or gaseous discharge xenon lamps to warn air traffic. Power is generally provided to the rotating beacons through a hardwired electrical source. In the past, the traditional illumination sources have not included a long life span, have required large amounts of power to operate, and have been difficult to maintain. In addition, the rotating warning beacons as known frequently did not have a backup power supply in the event of power interruption such as may occur during or immediately following a storm.

The systematic information transfer through encrypted/pulsed light (SIT-TEL) system as engaged to an airport tower894, and/orobstacle896, is formed of alight support801, having firstLED illumination elements803, as earlier described. Thelight support801, may be attached to arotational device805 for rotation where the light support may includerotational reflectors809, as earlier described. Alternatively, acontroller814815, may provide modulated light intensity in association with selective illumination of firstLED light sources803, to generate the appearance of rotation.

The SIT-TEL system as engaged to either anobstacle896, and/or a tower894, may therefore provide a warning light signal, a plurality of singular and/or combination of warning light signals, and/or a plurality of independent and/or simultaneously pulsed light signals at different wavelengths for transmission and communication of information to an aircraft876.

The SIT-TEL system as engaged to an airport tower894, and/or to anobstacle896, such as a radio tower may be hardwired to a suitable power source. In addition, the SIT-TEL system may include a backup power supply such as a battery.

The SIT-TEL signal as generated from atower896 and/orobstacle896 may carry signals representative of characters, numerals, and/or words in a free space transmission. The generated pulsed SIT-TEL signals may be utilized for aircraft identification, anti-collision warnings, relay atmospheric conditions, aircraft guidance, and illumination. Generally, the SIT-TEL light sources utilized in association with a tower894, and/orobstacle896, are red in color relating to a preselected wavelength in accordance with FAA regulations.

Thecontroller827, as included within an aircraft876, may include voice recognition/activation software which may interpret received digital impulses for conversion to audible voice messages to be emitted from a speaker integral to the cockpit. Thecontroller827, preferably interprets pulsed LED light signals received from thesecond receiver823, for transmission of alarms such as noises, lights, and/or voices to a pilot related toair obstacles896.

An aircraft876, may further include the secondLED illumination sources829, for transmission of the SIT-TEL light signals to thefirst receiver819, integral to theobstacle896, and/or tower894. Thefirst controller815, may receive and process a reply message from thesecond controller827, to record data such as the aircraft identification, time, and date. In addition, the plurality offirst receivers819, set at different wavelengths may be used. The modulated reduced duty cycle at certain LED wavelengths may function as a distance indicator relative to theobstacle896. For example, a first wavelength may be selected where a successful handshake protocol between the firstLED illumination sources803, and thesecond receivers823, and the return signal from the secondLED illumination sources829, for receipt at thefirst receivers819, indicate an approximate first distance of three miles between the aircraft876, and theobstacle896. A selected different wavelength emitted from the firstLED illumination sources803 at a reduced modulated duty cycle as regulated bycontroller815, may be recognized by thesecond receivers823, only when the distance between theobstacle896, and the aircraft876, has been reduced to a distance of two miles or less. The successful handshake protocol related to the second wavelength emitted by the firstLED illumination sources803, indicates that the aircraft876, has closed distance with respect to theobstacle896, by approximately one mile. Additionally, many features may be included within successive wavelengths to warn thesecond controller827, and aircraft876, as to the proximity to a hazard and/orobstacle896. The warnings may be audible alarms, visual LED lights, and/or voice signals. A number of wavelengths may be selected for emission from the firstLED illumination sources803, and modulated and successively reduced duty cycle to function as distance indicators relative to anobstacle896. In addition, for each successive pulsed LED light signal at a specific wavelength having reduced duty cycle, the warning message included within the pulsed LED light signal may incrementally escalate. For example, the three mile warning may be relatively passive. The two mile warning may be more severe in flashing lights and buzzing audible signals. The two mile warning may also transmit to a pilot harassing warning signals and the one mile warning may be quite obnoxious. In addition, each successive wavelength having reduced modulated duty cycle intensity for the firstLED illumination sources803, may be set at a different repetitive cycle. For example, the three mile warning signal may repeat every 15 seconds. The two mile warning signal may repeat every seven seconds, and the one mile warning signal may continuously repeat.

Thefirst controller815, may be programmed to receive a first handshake protocol related to the three mile pulsed LED signal. Thefirst controller815, may then trigger the initiation of the second reduced modulated duty cycle wavelength LED light signal from analternative sector811 as compared to the first LED warninglight sources803, within thesupport801, corresponding to the two mile warning. Thecontroller815, upon recognition of a second handshake protocol related to the second wavelength may then initiate transmission of the third reduced modulated duty cycle wavelength LED light signal from anotheralternative sector811 of the firstLED light sources803 within thesupport801, corresponding to the one mile warning.

The method for warning an aircraft876 as to the existence of anobstacle896, may initiate by the continuous emission of a first warning pulsed LED light signal at a first wavelength from asector811 or portion of anLED light support801, by the firstLED illumination sources803 integral to theobstacle896.

The first warning pulsed LED light signal is received by thesecond receivers823, integral to an aircraft876, where thesecond controller827, upon receipt of the first warning pulsed LED light signal at the first wavelength initiates transmission of a first responsive pulsed LED light signal at the first wavelength to be received by thefirst receivers819, of theobstacle896.

Thefirst controller815, connected to thefirst receivers819, upon receipt of the first responsive pulsed LED light signal continues to transmit at a regular interval the first warning pulsed LED light signal at the first wavelength. In addition, thefirst controller815, generates continued recognition signals by issuance of a first acknowledgment pulsed LED light signal for receipt by thesecond receivers823, integral to the aircraft876. In addition, thefirst controller815, may initiate the transmission of a second warning pulsed LED light signal at a second modulated reduced duty cycle and second wavelength, from adifferent sector811, or portion ofLED support801.

At such time as aircraft876, has closed to a distance sufficient to detect the second warning pulsed LED signal by a second set ofsecond receivers823, thesecond controller827, initiates transmission of a second responsive pulsed LED light signal at the second wavelength to be received by another set offirst receivers819.

The alternate set offirst receivers819, may then detect the second responsive pulsed LED light signal from thesecond controller827. Thefirst controller815, continues to transmit at a regular reduced time interval the second warning pulsed LED light signal at a second wavelength. In addition, thefirst controller815, generates continued second acknowledgment pulsed LED light signal. Thefirst controller815, may also emit a third warning pulsed LED light signal at a third modulated reduced duty cycle and third wavelength, as compared to the first andsecond sectors811 and wavelengths of thelight support801.

At such time as the aircraft876 has closed to a distance sufficient to detect the third warning pulsed LED light signal by another set ofsecond receivers823, thesecond controller827, initiates the transmission of a third responsive pulsed LED light signal at the third wavelength.

The issuance of successive warnings and responsive pulsed LED light signals may occur until such time as a compliance signal is generated by thesecond controller827, indicating alteration of course of the aircraft876. Thefirst controller815, may simultaneously emit three or more warning pulsed LED light signals for detection by the aircraft876. Further, thefirst controller815, may alter the visual warning light signal as integral to therotating beacon878, and/or strobe880, for generation of a faster and/or more versatile observable warning light signal at such time as the controller initiates transmission of the second or third warning pulsed LED light signals.

Thecontroller815, may also transmit by pulsed LED light signal continuous information such as the coordinates identifying the location of theobstacle896. Further, thecontroller815, may transmit by pulsed LED light signal atmospheric information and/or aircraft navigation guidance information which may be useful to a pilot of an aircraft876.

Real-time transmission of information may occur between asecond controller827, and afirst controller815, by the exchange of pulsed LED light signals. The interrogation pulsed LED light signal generated by asecond controller827, of the aircraft876 may trigger a transmission of a pulsed LED light signals from thefirst controller815, as to current air traffic proximate to a tower894, wind direction, wind speed, visibility, ceiling, and/or weather conditions or other information which may be useful to a pilot. Real-time information received from thesecond controller827, may be processed for visual display on a screen integral to a cockpit. (FIG. 84.) Alternatively, real-time information received by thesecond controller827, may be processed for generation of voice information and instructions by transmission through a speaker integral to a cockpit or through headphones.

An aircraft876,obstacle896, and/or tower894, may include more than oneLED light support801, for simultaneous generation of one or more warning light signals or SIT-TEL signals. Eachlight support800801, may be connected to an independentfirst controller815, for generation of independent pulsed LED light signals. A pilot may select a particular wavelength of pulsed LED light signals for receipt of a particular type of information. For example, a first wavelength may include warning information as to the coordinates or location of anobstacle896. A second wavelength may provide air traffic control information. A third wavelength may provide information as to weather and a fourth wavelength may provide navigation guides. A pilot may therefore receive different types of information from more than onelight source801, andfirst controller815, as integral to a tower894, and/orobstacle896.

The systematic information transfer through encrypted/pulsed light (SIT-TEL) systems may also be used to transmit approach and/or position information to an aircraft876. An acknowledgment protocol as earlier described may be used between an aircraft876 and/or tower894 to facilitate landing. The SIT-TEL system may communicate a visual reference descent point identifying a position at which the aircraft876, may or may not leave the constraints of the published approach vector for an airport. The SIT-TEL system may also communicate a wave-off or abort point based upon tracking of approach vectors for aircraft876 which are beyond acceptable parameters. In both these situations, a SIT-TEL signal may be instantaneously generated by afirst support801, and firstLED light sources803, integral to a tower894, for receipt bysecond receivers823, andsecond controller827, integral to the aircraft876. The generated SIT-TEL signal will cause thesecond controller827, to issue an audible, visual, and/or oral alarm or warning to a pilot during landing approach activities. An acknowledgment protocol may then be transmitted by the secondLED illumination sources829, for receipt by thefirst receivers819, integral to the tower894. The SIT-TEL system used in association with approach landing activities for an aircraft876, are supplemental to the communication systems of VHF, UHF, and TCAS proximity warning. Real-time flight information may also be exchanged between the aircraft876, and the tower894, related to the aircraft identity, flight plan, altitude, direction, rate of descent, and wind direction, wind speed, ceiling, instrument approaches, visibility, traffic conditions, landing clearance, as well as other types of aircraft landing information.

The systematic information transfer encrypted/pulsed light signal (SIT-TEL) system may additionally be utilized in conjunction withairport taxi lights898, runway lights900, runway approach lights902, and airport support vehicle lights904.

A plurality oftaxi lights898, may be positioned adjacent to an airport andrunway906. The taxi lights898 are generally blue in color and are normally attached to a post support. Proximate to eachtaxi light898, is located amarker910 which identifies the location of aparticular taxi light898 for reference by a pilot during taxiing and/or radio communications with a control tower894. The taxi lights898, as known assist in identification of the position of an aircraft876, on the ground and function as a reference for aircraft876, taxiing to a gate for docking or from a gate in anticipation of departure and/or takeoff.

The SIT-TEL system used in conjunction withtaxi lights898, involves the transmission of a pulsed light signal from abeacon878, attached to the top and/or bottom of the fuselage of an aircraft876. Alternatively, the wing lights908, for an aircraft876, may be adapted to include asupport801, having a plurality of firstLED light sources803, for the SIT-TEL signaling system. The wing lights908, and/orbeacon878, continuously operate to provide constant and/or flashing or rotational illumination relative to an aircraft876.

The SIT-TEL system as utilized in association with a plurality oftaxi lights898, generally places a secondLED light support801, having the secondLED light sources829, andsecond receivers823, integral to amarker910, where eachmarker910 is positioned proximate to and is regularly spaced along an airport taxi way. Eachtaxi light898, may be powered by a hardwired electrical source and/or connected to a battery which may be rechargeable. Eachtaxi light898,second illumination source829, and/orsecond receiver823, is also electrically connected to asecond controller827, which may be separated from the taxi lights898, at a central location. Asecond converter825, may be coupled to thesecond controller827, for conversion of electrical signals from thesecond receiver823, to digital signals, for processing within thesecond controller827. Thesecond controller827, is constructed to pass information to a control center and/or control tower894, by optical pulsed light within the SIT-TEL system or via wire connections. More than onecontroller827, may be in communication with a single and/or group of taxi lights898.

The taxi lights898, as a portion of the SIT-TEL system may be organized into patterns and/or groups. Each collection, pattern, and/or group oftaxi lights898, may be in electrical communication with one or moresecond controllers827. Further, asecond controller827, may be in communication directly with a control tower894, or an additional main controller to facilitate transfer of information through transmission of free space pulsed LED light signals. The SIT-TEL signaling system utilized in association with a plurality oftaxi lights898, is designed to facilitate the tracking of aircraft876, on the ground as on or adjacent to arunway906, and/or airport. Tracking is accomplished through the transmission of a pulsed light signal from thebeacon878, and/or aircraft lighting system. Alternatively, the SIT-TEL signaling system may be transmitted through the wing lights908, taxi or recognition lights of the aircraft. Thebeacons878, and/orwing lights908, continuously emit a visual signal to identify the aircraft876 where relative positioning of the aircraft may be determined.

Afirst controller815, may generate through SIT-TEL signals identification information and/or call signs for an aircraft876. This pulsed LED light signal may be detected by asecond receiver823 integral to one or more of the taxi lights898. Each taxi light898 forwards the received pulsed LED light signal to asecond controller827 for relay of information related to the existence of an aircraft876, and the aircraft876 call sign or identification to a main controller or tower894. Eachtaxi light898, also transmits to the control tower894, a pulsed LED light signal which identifies, the location of the individual taxi light. The location of the aircraft876, relative to the taxi way may therefore be established. Alternatively, the taxi lights898, may be electrically connected to asecond controller827, and thesecond controller827, may be electrically connected to the tower894, through the use of cable and/or wires for transmission of information therebetween.

Traffic controllers within the control tower894, may therefore be provided with real-time positioning of an aircraft876, taxiing adjacent to arunway906, without reliance upon radio frequency communications.

A recognition protocol may be utilized for the transmission of encrypted pulsed LED light signal messages to insure the security and verification as to the accuracy of communications between an aircraft876, and a tower894. Further, the existence of a recognition protocol assists to filter out background or other light noise signals.

A tower894, may contact asecond controller827, for activation of a selectedtaxi light898, to transfer a desired pre-stored and/or real-time SIT-TEL pulsed light signal fromsecond illumination sources829, for transmission to thefirst receivers819, integral to the aircraft876. Traffic regulation signals such as delay gate departure, remain in a stationary position relative to the taxi way, or proceed to the end of the runway may occur without the need for radio frequency transmissions. The SIT-TEL system as incorporated intotaxi lights898, and/or interfaced to an aircraft876, improves the safety of ground travel of aircraft876, aircraft personnel, and travelers by identifying in real-time the exact location of an aircraft876, relative to a taxi way and/orrunway906.

The taxi lights898, may include one or a plurality ofsecond illumination sources829, having different wavelengths of emitted light. Ataxi light898, may therefore simultaneously generate one or more of a plurality of SIT-TEL signals for receipt by a tower894, and/or an aircraft876. In addition, the taxi lights898, may include one or a plurality ofsecond receivers823, to recognize, detect, and/or receive different wavelengths of transmitted SIT-TEL signals.

The systematic information transfer through encrypted/pulsed light (SIT-TEL) system may also be included as an integral component of arunway906, lighting system. The runway lighting system includes the same LED transmission and receptor components as earlier described in association with the taxi lights898, and/or aircraft876. The runway lights900, and lighting system also includes one or moresecond controllers827, which are in communication withindividual runway lights900, a tower894, and/or an aircraft876.

The runway lights900, are regularly spaced along and are positioned adjacent to arunway906. The runway lights900 simultaneously provide illumination of arunway906, and transmit SIT-TEL signals either through free space transmissions and/or through the use of traditional wire or cables to a control tower894. The runway lights900, may additionally transmit SIT-TEL signals through free space transmissions to an aircraft876.

The runway lights900, through the use of SIT-TEL transmissions indicate the presence and location of an aircraft876, relative to arunway906. The runway lights900, may transmit SIT-TEL signals to an aircraft876, to advise of departure clearance and/or holding status in real-time. The aircraft876, includesfirst receivers819, andfirst controller815, for receipt of transmitted real-time SIT-TEL signals and for acknowledgment of receipt of SIT-TEL instructions. Thecontroller815, is in communication with a screen display, audio alarm, visual lights, and/or voice generation software and equipment within a cockpit as earlier described.

The runway lights900, may emit a desired color or type of light signal. For example, in an aircraft hold situation, thesecond controller827, may flash a portion of the runway lights900, in a different color such as red to communicate that takeoff clearance has been delayed. The runway lights900, and particularly thesecond receiver823, andsecond controller827, may receive this instructions through the use of a SIT-TEL signal generated by the LED illumination sources of a tower894.

Thesecond controller827, coupled to the runway lights900, may initiate the transmission of preprogrammed SIT-TEL messages to either the tower894, or to a an aircraft876, according to a preprogrammed cycle. For example, arunway light900, may alternatively transmit through an SIT-TEL communication the position of an aircraft876, and aircraft identification, where the next SIT-TEL signal transmitted is a repeat of the instructions received from the tower894, to delay departure along arunway906. Any number and/or combinations of real-time and/or preprogrammed communication messages may be transferred between an aircraft876,runway light900, and control tower894. A pilot may also transmit preprogrammed information to either the runway lights receiver, and/or the tower894, through the firstLED illumination sources803, andfirst controller815.

The SIT-TEL communication system may be incorporated into runway approach lights902. Initially, the illumination sources for the runway approach lights902, will be required to upgrade and replace traditional illumination elements with LED technology. The upgraded approach lights902, will include alight support801, secondLED illumination sources829,second receivers823, andsecond controller827. Thefirst controller815, firstLED illumination sources803, andfirst receivers819, are integral to an aircraft876. The features and functions as earlier described related to the taxi lights898, and/orrunway lights900, are equally applicable to the runway approach lights902.

The runway approach lights902, provide illumination as visual strobe lights indicating a correct approach for arunway906. Asecond controller827, may therefore regulate a portion of theLED light support801, to emit a visual strobe signal while another part of theLED support801, may be utilized for SIT-TEL communications with either a descending aircraft876, and/or a tower894. The runway approach lights902, may function as a transmission source for the intermediate relay of real-time information and/or instructions to a descending aircraft876, proceeding on an approach vector for landing on arunway906.

The tower894, may track an approach vector for an aircraft876, through radar/VFR air traffic control systems. As a backup to the radio frequency communications, duplicate instructions may be transmitted by the approach lights902, for receipt by thefirst receivers819, integral to the aircraft876. Simultaneously, an airplane876, may transmit SIT-TEL pulsed signals identifying the call sign or identification for the airplane876, and information related to vector, rate of descent, speed, and altitude in real-time for transfer by the approach lights902, to the control tower894. A computer/processor may receive data communicated by the SIT-TEL LED pulsed light system for verification of acceptable approach parameters. Analysis of the aircraft approach may result in the transmission through radio frequency and SIT-TEL signals of an abort approach message due to the existence of unacceptable approach parameters. Alternatively, a tower894, may transmit through the approach lights902, by issuance of radio frequency and/or SIT-TEL communications, a warning that approach parameters for an aircraft876 are required to be modified for a successful landing. The approach lights902, may alternatively continuously transmit through emission of SIT-TEL communications information such as wind direction, wind velocity conditions, weather information, runway status, ceiling information, and/or other information as appropriate to facilitate landing of the aircraft876. Alternatively, the approach lights902, may transmit through emission of SIT-TEL signals a backup transmission to an aircraft876, advising of an emergency situation to break-off an approach for arunway906.

The approach lights902 have the flexibility to transmit SIT-TEL communication signals at different wavelengths either individually or simultaneously in conjunction with a plurality of visually different, distinct, or combination types of visual warning or illumination light effects.

The approach lights902, as regulated by thesecond controller827, may also alter a pattern of strobe or other illumination for an approach to arunway906. The alteration of a pattern of illumination for the approach lights902, and/or the color of the transmitted light, may function as an additional visual warning to an aircraft876, positioned upon or approaching arunway906. The alteration of a standard white strobe approach signal to a light signal of a different color or wavelength, and the change of the stroboscopic or interval may immediately advise a pilot of a warning prior to receipt of a radio frequency transmission. The transfer of a distinct visual warning in conjunction with transmission of a SIT-TEL pulsed light warning signal may communicate warning information to a pilot at an improved rate of communication transfer as compared to radio frequency transmissions.

It should be noted that free space transmissions for aircraft876 may occur within the earth s atmosphere and may be equally applicable for SIT-TEL communications outside the earth s atmosphere as related to space craft communications.

The SIT-TEL communication system may be incorporated into airport support vehicle lights904. The traditional illumination sources of arotating beacon878, are required to be replaced and upgraded with LED technology upon asupport vehicle912. The airportsupport vehicle lights904, include alight support801, a plurality of secondLED illumination sources829, at least onesecond receiver823, and at least onesecond controller827. The features and functions as earlier described related to the taxi lights898, runway lights900, and approach lights902, are equally applicable to the airport support vehicle lights904.

The airportsupport vehicle lights904, provide illumination as a mechanically or simulatedrotating beacon878, indicating the location of theairport support vehicle912 relative to an aircraft876, and gate of an airport. Thesecond controller827, functions to illuminate secondLED illumination sources829, to emit a visual light signal observable by an aircraft876. Thesecond controller827, also functions to illuminate secondLED illumination sources829, to emit a SIT-TEL communication to either afirst receiver819, integral to an aircraft876, or to a tower894, to indicate and track the position of theairport service vehicle912, relative to an aircraft876, and airport. The airportservice vehicle light904, may function as a real-time position indicator and to communicate through SIT-TEL signals information as to the status of the performance of specific duties. For example, the SIT-TEL communication system through the secondLED light sources829, as integral to a fuel truck may advise thefirst receivers819, integral to an aircraft876 of the location of theairport service vehicle912, and refueling status.

The tower894, and/or aircraft876, may therefore track the position and status of activities of theairport service vehicle912, relative to an aircraft876. In this regard, the SIT-TEL communication systems may function as a backup for, or as a replacement of, radio frequency transmissions between an aircraft876, anairport service vehicle912, and/or a tower894.

The SIT-TEL communications related to the airportservice vehicle light904, may be continuously emitted or intermittently activated. Thesecond controller827, includes preprogrammed signals such as continuous vehicle identification, and various status identifiers which may be selected or changed by an aircraft service personnel during the performance of duties.

The SIT-TEL communications from the secondLED illumination sources829, integral to an airportservice vehicle light904, may transmit messages simultaneously or individually on one or more wavelengths for detection byfirst receivers819, integral to an aircraft876, and/orsecond receivers823, integral to a tower894. The secondLED illumination sources829, are comprised of LED lights of more than one wavelength which may be grouped into one or more collections and/orsectors811 as earlier described.

Thesecond controller827, may also regulate the provision of different wavelengths of visual and/or SIT-TEL light signals simultaneously and/or independently. For example, an airportservice vehicle light904, may simultaneously emit a desired type of visual signal, a first wavelength SIT-TEL signal to afirst receiver819, integral to an aircraft876, and a second wavelength SIT-TEL signal to asecond receiver823, integral to a tower894. Thesecond controller827, may also regulate the generation of an emergency visual signal and simultaneously emit an emergency SIT-TEL warning communication to an aircraft876, and/or tower894.

The airportservice vehicle light904, andLED light support801, may be attached to the top of a post. Alternatively, the airportservice vehicle light904, may be attached at location relative to anairport service vehicle912. Generally, the most common wavelengths of color for the airport service vehicle lights904, is either amber, green, and/or red.

Thesecond controller827, positioned integral with anairport service vehicle912, may include preprogrammed locations relative to an airport. An individual may therefore select an appropriate location via an entry pad or keyboard to alter the pulsed SIT-TEL signal to reflect a change in position of theairport service vehicle912. Alternatively, a plurality of positional receivers may be disposed at various locations about an airport. Each of the positional receivers may be constructed for transmission of a preprogrammed location identification signal to a tower894, through SIT-TEL signals and/or connected to the tower894, by wire or cable connections. In this embodiment, the airportservice vehicle light904, continuously emits an identification signal which is detected by at least one adjacent positional receiver. Upon receipt of the SIT-TEL signal from the airportservice vehicle light904, a pulsated light position indicator signal is generated to either an aircraft876, and/or tower894, by the positional receiver. The secondLED illumination sources829, as coupled to the positional receivers may simultaneously communicate a pulsed SIT-TEL signal representative of the location of the positional receivers as well as the identification of the type of signal received from the airportservice vehicle light904.

Eachsecond controller827, as integral to an airportservice vehicle light904, may include a pre-programmed coded pulsed signal identifying the particular type and/or function for anairport service vehicle912. For example, a baggage transport may have a different pre-programmed pulse signal as compared to a fuel truck, a food service vehicle, and/or an aircraft maintenance vehicle. Alternatively, the type ofaircraft service vehicle912, may be indicated through the SIT-TEL signals of different and independent wavelengths.

The use of a SIT-TEL communication system in association with asecond controller827, of an airportservice vehicle light904, permits communication to afirst receiver819, andfirst controller815, within a cockpit for an aircraft876, to indicate the real-time status of food replacement, fuel delivery, baggage loading or unloading, and/or maintenance completion. A pilot may therefore advise the crew and/or passengers as to the status of a craft to assist in departure. In addition, a SIT-TEL system in association with thefirst controller815, and firstLED illumination sources803, integral to abeacon878, and/orwing lights908, may expedite communication that an aircraft876, is ready and available to receive food, fuel, and/or baggage loading and unloading which in turn enables faster preparation for continued aircraft service. The use of the SIT-TEL system with respect to an aircraft876, and/orairport support vehicle912, reduces the necessity for use of radio frequency transmissions proximate to an airport by substitution with free space pulsed LED transmission and detection signals.

The components, features, and applications as earlier described related to the SIT-TEL LED pulsed light communication system are equally applicable for use in a marine application.

In general, anLED light support801, having firstLED illumination sources803, will be placed at a suitable location aboard afirst vessel916. (FIG. 73.) TheLED light support801, may include arotational device805,culminator assembly807, stationary and/orrotatable reflectors809, and/orsectors811, and/or different wavelengths of LED light sources as earlier described. TheLED light support801, is coupled to a vessel power supply and/or may be battery operated having rechargeable solar cells as earlier described or wave-action generators.

A secondLED light support801, having secondLED illumination sources829,second receiver823,second converter825, andsecond controller827, may be integral to amarine buoy918,lighthouse920, and/or other vessel. Thesecond receivers823,second controller827, and/or secondLED illumination sources829, are constructed and arranged for receipt of SIT-TEL LED pulsed light communication signals as transmitted from thefirst vessel916, for communication recognition, verification, and responsive communication as earlier described with respect to the motor vehicles, aircraft, taxi lights, approach lights, and/or runway lights.

The use of the SIT-TEL system in association with abuoy918, preferably enables enhanced visualization of the location of thebuoy918, while simultaneously transmitting an SIT-TEL LED pulsed light signal which may indicate pre-programmed and/or real-time information for transmission to thevessel916. Thesecond controller827, as integral to themarine buoy918, may transmit pre-stored information such as the identification number of the buoy, the fact that the buoy may be an east channel marker and the depth of the water at the location ofbuoy918. In addition, thesecond receivers823, may be disposed about thebuoy918, at various locations where an individualsecond receiver823, will only detect a transmitted SIT-TEL signal at such times as afirst vessel916, is outside of a marked channel. In this instance the selectedsecond receiver823, will generate a signal to thesecond controller827, which will in turn generate a responsive warning signal to thefirst vessel916, for receipt by thefirst receivers819, that thefirst vessel916, is outside of the marked main channel and may be on a course for running aground and/or striking underwater obstacles.

Thesecond receivers823, as integral to thebuoys918, may also be adapted to receive SIT-TEL signals transmitted from thefirst vessel916, via the firstLED illumination sources803, andfirst controller815, for communication of information such as the registered name and port for thefirst vessel916. Thebuoy918, may then forward the identity of thefirst vessel916, to asecond buoy918, and/or a harbor control center through the use of additional SIT-TEL LED pulsed illumination signals. Any number ofbuoys918, may be utilized to sequentially transmit SIT-TEL pulsed LED illumination signals to a harbor master related to communications from afirst vessel916.

Thefirst controller815, as integral to thefirst vessel916, and thesecond controller827, as integral to thebuoy918, may also include a pre-stored and/or pre-programmed recognition protocol related to pulsed LED SIT-TEL light signals for initiation of communication therebetween.

The secondLED illumination sources829, as integral to thebuoy918, are constructed and arranged to provide a visual LED signal within the red and/or green spectrums which may be used for navigation purposes. The visual LED signals as transmitted by thesecond illumination sources829, may be flashing, pulsed, modulated, and/or may simulate the appearance of rotation as earlier described. Alternatively, theLED light support801, as integral to thebuoy918, may be physically rotated via arotational device805, as earlier described.

A harbor master may utilize a series ofbuoys918, to sequentially transmit a communication to afirst vessel916, for regulation of marine traffic through a channel by the use of SIT-TEL communication signals. The use of SIT-TEL communication signals may be supplemental to the transmission of radio frequency transmissions. Alternatively, thebuoy918, is not required to be utilized exclusively within a channel or harbor application. Thebuoy918, may be a position identification source and/or obstacle marker.

Thebuoy918, may be positioned at any location within a body of water to continuously transmit a pulsed LED SIT-TEL signal for communication of information such as longitude and latitude coordinates. Alternatively, thebuoy918, may become activated and transmit SIT-TEL signals at such time as thesecond receiver823, receives a triggering signal from a first set ofLED illumination sources803, integral to afirst vessel916. Eachbuoy918, may also transmit real-time information such as water temperature, barometric pressure, changes in barometric pressure, temperature, and/or wind speed and direction. Thebuoy918, may include a long life lithium battery and/or a backup rechargeable solar cell as earlier described.

Buoy s918, may also be utilized to record marine traffic for tracking purposes. For example, afirst vessel916, may transmit the vessel identity to abuoy918, through the use of SIT-TEL communication signals. Thebuoy918 may then record the date, time of transmission, and/or destination information related to thevessel916. The SIT-TEL signal as received by thesecond receiver823, is preferably recorded on thesecond controller827. In the event that afirst vessel916, becomes overdue then a retrieval craft such as an airplane or helicopter may be dispatched by a Coast Guard unit having interrogation SIT-TEL capabilities. A Coast Guard vessel or aircraft may then fly within range of abuoy918, and transmit an SIT-TEL interrogation signal which will trigger thesecond controller827, to dump all pre-stored marine traffic data for transmission to the Coast Guard aircraft or vessel via a responsive SIT-TEL signal. A Coast Guard and/or searching vessel may thereby identify time and direction of travel for a lost vessel to narrow a search area thereby improving the probability of survivor retrieval. In addition, a vehicle such as an aircraft876, may fly within the proximity of abuoy918, for transmission of a first SIT-TEL signal to be received by thesecond receiver823, and/orsecond controller827, to modify future SIT-TEL communications to be generated by the secondLED illumination sources829. In this regard, warning signals may be activated and/or altered on themarine buoy918. Amarine vessel916 which has previously been outside of radio frequency transmission range may therefore receive updated SIT-TEL communication signals from abuoy918, related to warnings such as adverse weather and/or wave conditions.

SIT-TEL communication signals as transmitted between afirst vessel916, and a second vessel922, may be provided in the manner as indicated as related to SIT-TEL transmissions between aircraft and/or a control tower894, as earlier described.

SIT-TEL communication signals may also be transmitted between afirst vessel916, and alighthouse920, in a manner similar to the SIT-TEL communications identified between an aircraft876, and tower894, as earlier described. SIT-TEL communications being generated by alighthouse920, are anticipated to be prominently pre-recorded and/or pre-stored communication signals as integral to thesecond controller827. It is anticipated that the SIT-TEL communication signals as generated by alighthouse920, will transmit information such as longitude and/or latitude or other coordinates, and navigation information which will assist afirst vessel916, from approaching a marine hazard.

The components, features, and applications as earlier described related to the SIT-TEL LED pulsed light communication system are equally applicable for use in a subway, bus, and/or mass transit application. (FIGS. 74 and 77.) For convenience, the subway, bus, and/or mass transit vehicle will be identified by the numeral924. The subway/bus924, preferably includes the elements as earlier identified and described related to theLED light support801, firstLED illumination sources803,culminator assembly807,sectors811, power source813,first controller815,first receiver819, andconverter821.

Asecond receiver823,second converter825,second controller827, and secondLED illumination sources829, are preferably constructed and arranged for attachment to a street sign and/ortraffic light926.

In the mass transit application, thefirst controller815, as integral to the bus and/orsubway924, includes pre-stored information as to the vehicle identification number, schedule, and vehicle route. Thesecond controller827, as integral to the street sign and/ortraffic light926, includes pre-stored identification information such as a position location relative to a map. Within the subway mass transitapplication position identifiers928, may be regularly spaced along a route in substitution for the street sign/traffic lights926.

Initially, thefirst controller815, will signal initiation of a first SIT-TEL pulsed light communication signal to be transmitted for detection by thesecond receivers823, as integral to astreet sign926, and/orposition identifier928. Thesecond controller827, as coupled to thestreet sign926, orposition identifier928, will process the received signal for generation of a second SIT-TEL LED pulsed light signal for transfer to a centrally locatedthird receiver930, as connected to athird converter932,third controller934, and thirdLED illumination device936. Thethird receiver930,third controller934, and/or thirdLED illumination device936, are preferably elevated with respect to the street signs926, and/orposition identifiers928, in order to receive pulsed LED SIT-TEL light signals from a plurality ofstreet signs926, and/orposition identifiers928. Thethird controller934, may be electrically coupled to atraffic processor938, which functions as a central processing and tracking location related to SIT-TEL signals received from thethird controller934. Thesecond controller827, as integral to thestreet sign926, and/orposition identifier928, may record the first SIT-TEL signal received from thefirst controller815. Thesecond controller827, may then relay the first SIT-TEL signal including vehicle identification along with additional information such as an identification signal corresponding to astreet sign926, and/orposition identifier928, address and a signal corresponding to the time of transmission of the SIT-TEL signal. Thethird controller934, as receiving the first and second SIT-TEL signals may transfer information to thetraffic processor938, which may compare the information to a preset map and/or schedule for transmission of SIT-TEL signals back to the street signs926, and/orposition identifiers928. The street signs926, andposition identifiers928, as receiving a SIT-TEL signal from thetraffic processor938, may initiate the transmission of an additional SIT-TEL signal for receipt by a plurality ofdisplays940, as representative of the tracking and/or location of a bus/subway924 proceeding along a preselected route. Potential passengers waiting for a bus/subway924, may therefore track in real-time the location of the bus/subway924. The tracking of a subway/bus924, is thereby facilitated. Additionally, bus stop and/or subway connection information may also be transmitted by SIT-TEL pulsed LED light signals for receipt upon thedisplays940, to assist passengers during travel activities.

Each subway/bus924, may also include adisplay940, which is adapted to receive a second SIT-TEL pulsed light signal as generated by astreet sign926, and/orposition identifier928, for processing by afirst controller815. The position location identifiers from the street signs/traffic light926, and/orposition identifier928, may assist passengers to identify the real-time location of the vehicle with respect to a pre-selected route to facilitate departure locations.

The wavelengths selected for the firstLED illumination sources803, secondLED illumination sources829, and/or thirdLED illumination devices936, may be identical and/or different to facilitate communication of SIT-TEL systems. Thefirst receiver819,second receiver823, and/orthird receivers930, may be adapted to receive a particular wavelength of generated LED pulsed light signal. Alternatively, each of thefirst controllers815,second controllers827, and/orthird controllers934, may be coupled to ascanner831, which searches to identify transmitted SIT-TEL signals used to communicate tracking and/or other information within a mass transit application. The use of SIT-TEL communication signals in association with mass transit tracking applications avoids the necessity for utilization of radio frequency transmissions which may frequently encounter interference from buildings or other sources within an urban environment and facilitates real-time planning for the customers, generating confidence in the system.

A plurality ofthird controllers934, may be disposed in any desired pattern as elevated with respect to an urban environment for communication relay to assist in the tracking, regulation, and control of a mass transit SIT-TEL application. Thethird receivers930,third converters932,third controllers934, and thirdLED illumination devices936, are coupled to a power source which may be a battery integral to the street sign/traffic light926, and/orposition identifiers928. The power source may be hardwired into a power source for a city. Thefirst LED support801, as integral to the bus/subway924, may be positioned at any location including but not necessarily limited to the front dashboard proximate to a window, to the exterior proximate to the top of the vehicle, and/or front of the bus/subway. In addition, thesecond receiver823, may be positioned at any location relative to a street sign/traffic light926, and may be located toward the top with respect thereto.

The components, features, and applications as earlier described related to the SIT-TEL LED pulsed light communication system are equally applicable for use in an OPTICOM intersection clearing application.

The OPTICOM intersection clearing device is generally referred herein as the OPTICOM device identified by the numeral942. (FIG. 67.) TheOPTICOM device942, includes asecond receiver823,second converter825,second controller827, and secondLED illumination sources829. In addition, theOPTICOM device942, includes anLED support801, havingsectors811. TheOPTICOM device942, is electrically coupled to a main power supply for atraffic signal926, and may be constructed to have a backup power supply such as a battery which may be rechargeable through the use of a solar cell.

In general, theOPTICOM device942, andsecond controller827, is connected to an override switch which is integral to thetraffic light926. A police, ambulance, fire, or other emergency vehicle during an emergency situation frequently requires the immediate transposition of a semaphore to a green traffic condition signal, to facilitate speed of arrival at an emergency situation. In addition, the first SIT-TEL system as integral to an emergency vehicle may also include afirst receiver819. During use of theOPTICOM device942, an officer or emergency personnel will activate a switch to initiate thefirst controller815, to generate a first SIT-TEL communication signal for transmission from the firstLED illumination sources803. The first SIT-TEL pulsed light signal will be received by thesecond receiver823, integral to theOPTICOM device942. Thesecond controller827, of theOPTICOM device942, will then trigger the override switch to instantaneously transition the semaphore from either a red or amber signal to a green light signal to permit passage of an emergency vehicle through an intersection.

The firstLED illumination sources803, as integral to the emergency vehicle are pointed upwardly towards the top of the traffic light and/orsemaphore926. Thesecond receiver823, is proximate to the top of thetraffic light926/semaphore. Thesecond receiver823,second converter825,second controller827, and secondLED illumination sources829, may be hardwired to an electrical power source and/or powered through a battery as earlier described.

Thesecond receiver823, as integral to theOPTICOM device942, continuously receives the first SIT-TEL signal as generated from the firstLED illumination sources803. At such time as thesecond receiver823, terminates detection of the SIT-TEL signal as generated by the firstLED illumination sources803, a pre-programmed timing delay may be initiated for deactivation of the override switch to return thetraffic light926, and/or semaphore to a normal operational condition. Alternatively, the emergency vehicle may include anadditional LED support801, of firstLED illumination sources803, to transmit from the back of a vehicle once passage through an intersection has been completed. A second SIT-TEL pulsed LED light signal may thereby be generated by thefirst controller815, for detection by thesecond receiver823, as integral to theOPTICOM device942, for deactivation of the override switch to return the semaphore/traffic light926, to a standard operational condition. Alternatively, thesecond controller827, as integral to theOPTICOM device942, may include internal pre-programmed software which continues to activate the override switch, for a pre-set period of time. In addition, thefirst controller815, andsecond controller827 as integral to theOPTICOM device942, may be programmed to proceed with a recognition protocol as earlier described. The use of the SIT-TEL communication signaling system may be utilized as a backup or supplemental communication device to radar transmitters, transponders, and/or radio frequency equipment. TheOPTICOM device942, provides a visual activation light signal as well as a responsive SIT-TEL communication signal for receipt by thesecond receivers823, and/or observation by an emergency personnel or policeman to indicate that, in fact, the override switch has been activated to change the semaphore/traffic light926, to a green configuration to permit unobstructed passage of the emergency vehicle through an intersection.

The components, features, and applications as earlier described related to the SIT-TEL LED pulsed light communication system are equally applicable for use within a railroad crossing application. (FIGS. 75 and 76.) Generally, black and white railroad crossing signs having no alarm and/or gate are utilized in most all rural environments due to the reduced level of traffic and prohibitive cost for inclusion of more safety conscious railroad warning indicators. The absence of alarms and gates at rural railroad crossings increases the likelihood of motor vehicle accidents and fatalities. Counties generally desire to have safer railroad crossings and railroads also desire safer railroad crossings to reduce risk of motor vehicle accidents. A need therefore exists for an inexpensive, long life and dependable visual and audio signal at rural railroad crossings which is easily adaptable for inclusion within existing railroad crossing signs.

A railroadcrossing warning signal946, is generally formed of anLED support801, having firstLED illumination sources803, formed intosectors811. In addition, the railroadcrossing warning signal946, includes aculminator assembly807, a power source813, afirst controller815, asolar energy cell817, afirst receiver819, and aconverter821. The elements of the railroad crossing signal are directly attached to a railroad crossing sign pole as placed adjacent to rural railroad crossings.

TheLED light support801, having the firstLED illumination sources803, is adapted for receipt of power from thefirst controller815, to simulate the existence of a revolving light. The power as regulated by thefirst controller815, may permit the illumination of individual and/or groups of LED S. The railroad crossing warning signal may also include anaudible alarm948, which may be used to generate a buzzing, bell, and/or siren warning signal for detection by motor vehicles.

Atrain950, preferably includes a front952, and aback954. A secondLED light support801, having secondLED illumination devices829, is positioned proximate to thefront952 of thetrain950. In addition, a thirdLED light support800801, including a third receiver, third converter, third controller, and third LED illumination sources, may be positioned proximate to the back954 of thetrain950. Thesecond controller827, and secondLED illumination sources829, are constructed to continuously flash a visible warning light signal which may include a modulated duty cycle as earlier described. Thesecond controller827, and secondLED illumination sources829, are also constructed and arranged to continuously emit SIT-TEL communication signals as earlier described. The SIT-TEL communication signals as generated by thesecond controller827 transmit a recognition protocol as earlier described and are adapted for detection by thefirst receivers819, as integral to the railroad crossing sign956. Thefirst receiver819, is constructed to receive the first SIT-TEL signal as generated by thesecond controller827 integral to the front952, of thetrain950. Thefirst controller815, interprets the first SIT-TEL communication signal for activation of the firstLED illumination sources803, for the provision of a warning light signal and simultaneously the activation of theaudible alarm948. Power is applied to theaudible alarm948, railroadcrossing warning signal946,first controller815,first receivers819, and firstLED illumination sources803, through the use of a long life lithium battery and/or a rechargeable battery which may receive power from a solar power cell.

Thefirst controller815, upon receipt of the initial SIT-TEL communication signal from thetrain950, may initiate the transmission of a responsive SIT-TEL signal from the firstLED illumination sources803, for completion of the recognition protocol. The railroadcrossing warning signal946, includesfirst receivers819, positioned on opposite sides of the railroad crossing sign956, along an axis parallel to the direction of thetrain950. Thefirst receivers819, are thereby constructed to receive SIT-TEL communication signals from only one direction which are on opposite sides of the railroad crossing sign956.

The rear, back, and/or caboose, of thetrain950, includes a the third set of LED illumination devices for generation of a second SIT-TEL communication signal. Once atrain950, has passed a railroad crossing, the transmission of the second SIT-TEL communication signal may be detected by the oppositefirst receiver819, which deactivates theaudible alarm948, and/or the warning signal light as generated by thefirst controller815. Alternatively, thefirst controller815 may include a timer for deactivation of the visible warning light signal andaudible alarm948 following passage of a preselected period of time. The first SIT-TEL light signal and the second SIT-TEL light signal are formed of different patterns of pulsated light signals as generated by thesecond controller827, and/or third controller. Any wavelength of SIT-TEL signal may be selected for transmission from the firstLED illumination sources803, secondLED illumination sources829, and third LED illumination sources.

A motor vehicle may include a fourth receiver, fourth converter, a fourth controller, a fourth LED illumination device, and an override switch. The fourth receiver is adapted to additionally receive the first SIT-TEL train warning signal in a manner similar to the railroad crossing warning signal. The receipt of the initial SIT-TEL warning signal from thetrain950, may be processed by the fourth controller for activation of an override switch, which may be electrically coupled to the radio of the motor vehicle. In addition, the fourth controller may be coupled to the fourth LED illumination device, positioned to the interior proximate to the dashboard of the motor vehicle. The receipt by the fourth receiver, of the first SIT-TEL warning signal as generated by thetrain950, causes the controller, to initiate a warning illumination from the fourth LED illumination sources, for observation by an individual as a visual warning signal as to the existence and proximity of a train. An individual may therefore receive a warning indication from a railroadcrossing warning signal946, as well as from the interior of an automobile pursuant to the illumination of the fourth LED illumination device, to heighten awareness as to the existence of atrain950. The fourth controller, following the receipt of the first SIT-TEL warning signal from thetrain950, may, via the override switch, terminate power to a motor vehicle radio and/or generate a voice message through a speaker as earlier described.

The components, features, and applications as earlier described related to the SIT-TEL LED pulsed light communication system are equally applicable for use in an urban suburban communication system966. (FIGS. 74 and 77.)

The urban suburban communication system966, is generally formed of anLED light support801, having firstLED illumination sources803, formed intosectors811. The urban suburban communication system966, also includes a main power source813, as earlier described along with a battery backup power source which may be formed of a rechargeablesolar cell817. The urban suburban communication system966, further includes at least onefirst controller815, at least onefirst receiver819, and at least onefirst converter821. The urban suburban communication system966, is positioned to the top of a central building968, ortower970, as related to a geographic area.

The urban suburban communication system966, is adapted to generate SIT-TEL pulsed LED light signals in a horizontal and downwardly direction related to the location of the building968, and/ortower970. The urban suburban communication system966, may be formed of a circular, oval, octagonal, hexagonal, square, and/or rectangular shapedLED light support801.Sectors811 ofculminators807, and/or firstLED illumination sources801, may be angularly offset for the emission of light at any desired angle of illumination. Thefirst controller815, controls the emission of SIT-TEL communication signals from the firstLED illumination sources803, in one or more desired directions sequentially, individually, and/or simultaneously. The firstLED illumination sources803, are constructed and arranged to additionally provide a warning light signal such as a beacon for visual recognition by an aircraft876.

The urban suburban communication system966, may also formed of a plurality ofrelay sites972, which include at least onesecond receiver823, at least onesecond converter825, at least onesecond controller827, and at least one set of secondLED illumination sources829. Therelay sites972, may be secured to street and/ortraffic signals926, and/or street lamps. Alternatively, therelay sites972, may be placed at any desired location within an urban/suburban environment. Any number ofrelay sites972, may be used for detection of initial SIT-TEL communication signals as emitted from the urban suburban communication system966.

Therelay sites972, transmit and/or receive SIT-TEL communication signals to or from a user site which may be placed upon a dwelling, building, and/or other structure976. The user sites include at least onethird receiver930, at least onethird converter932, at least onethird controller934, and at least one set of thirdLED illumination sources936. The user site is electrically coupled to avisual display940, audible alarm, and/orLED light support801, having LED illumination sources. Any number ofrelay sites972, may be sequentially positioned between the urban suburban communication system966, and the user site. Each SIT-TEL communication signal may therefore be passed from the firstLED light sources803, to asecond receiver823, integral to aninitial relay site972, for successive transmission to additionalsecond receivers823, ofrelay sites972, for final SIT-TEL transmission to athird receptor930, integral to a user site. Thethird controller934, may then process the final SIT-TEL signal at the dwelling, building, and/or structure976, for issuance of a signal on thedisplay940, activation of an LED light on alight support801, and/or activation of an audible alarm. SIT-TEL communication signals may therefore be processed sequentially from the urban suburban communication system966, throughsuccessive relay sites972, to a user site. Types of SIT-TEL signals may include but are not necessarily limited to mail messages, pictures, photographs, advertisements, communications, news, real-time entertainment, pre-programmed entertainment, civil defense warnings, and/or any other type or form of communication which may be reduce to pulsed and/or encrypted LED light signals. It is anticipated that SIT-TEL communication signals may be used as a supplement or replacement of modes of communication such as mail, e-mail, advertising, billboards, cell phones, telephones, radio, and/or television.

Additionally, the user site includes thethird controller934, and the thirdLED illumination sources936, which are constructed and arranged to emit responsive SIT-TEL communications signals upstream through thesecond receivers823, of therelay sites972, for further communication to thefirst receivers819, of the urban suburban communication system966, for processing within thefirst controller815. Thefirst controller815, may identify a designated recipient of the communication for generation of a responsive SIT-TEL signal downstream, back through a series ofsecond receivers823, for ultimate transition to a particularthird receiver930, at the previously identified and designated user site.

In this regard, eachintermediate relay site972, and user site, is required to have a stored identification combination of pulsed LED light signals to identify an address. The addresses for each and everysite972, and/or user site, are stored within each respectivesecond controller827, andthird controller934, respectively. Thefirst controller815,second controller827, andthird controller934, are computers having microprocessors and stored translation software to recognize and interpret received SIT-TEL communication signals for communication to individuals through thedisplay940, and/or audible alarms.

The urban suburban communication system966,relay sites972, and/or user sites, may each include more than oneLED light support801, and one or a plurality offirst receivers819,second receivers823, and/orthird receivers930, respectively. The urban suburban communication system966,relay sites972, and/or user sites, may each include one or morefirst controllers815,second controllers827, and/orthird controllers934. Each of thefirst controllers815,second controllers827, and/orthird controllers934, may be constructed to process a selected type of SIT-TEL communication signal. For example, one set offirst controllers815,second controllers827, andthird controllers934, may exclusively communicate SIT-TEL signals related to mail and/or e-mail. Another set offirst controllers815,second controllers827, and/orthird controllers934, may exclusively communicate SIT-TEL signals related to cellular and/or telephone signals. Any number of sets of controllers may be utilized as a portion of the urban suburban communication system966 to communicate a specific desired type of information.

A specific type of communication signal may be assigned exclusively to a particular wavelength of SIT-TEL pulsed LED light communication signals. For example, cellular telephones and/or telephone communications may be assigned to a specific wavelength associated with an amber color. Radio communications may be assigned to a wavelength associated with a blue color. Any desired type of communication may be assigned a specific common wavelength for transmission and receipt of SIT-TEL communication signals. The SIT-TEL communication signals are not required to be exclusively in the visible spectrum but may also be generated in the non-visible spectrum.

Recognition protocols as earlier described are equally applicable as related to the SIT-TEL communications between the urban suburban communication system966,relay sites972, and/or user sites.

A hardwired connection may be provided between thethird receiver930, or the user sites, and an internally locateddisplay940, audible alarm, and/or LED light signal. Thethird controller934, may permit a user to select a type ofdisplay940, for communication of received SIT-TEL pulsed light signals. For example, an individual may manipulate thethird controller934, for generation of a processed and interpreted SIT-TEL communication signal for display upon a screen, television, stereo, speaker, alarm, and/or flashing or other warning light. Additionally, the SIT-TEL communications as processed by thethird controller934, may not be accessible to a end user without entry of security measures to facilitate retrieval such as the use of passwords and/or other encryption means.

The urban suburban communication system966,relay sites972, and/or user sites974, may each additionally includescanners831 and/or dials as earlier described for detection of transmitted SIT-TEL communication signals.

Thethird controller934, is constructed and arranged to interpret digital pulses for translation into visual images for showing on thedisplay940. Additionally, thethird controller934, is constructed to issue an audible alarm, and/or a flashing LED light signal as a portion of a civil defense warning to advise occupants of the existence of severe weather conditions.

Thethird controller934, and thirdLED illumination sources936, as integral to a user site, may also be utilized to transmit encrypted SIT-TEL light signals and/or messages on an emergency basis as coupled tothird receivers930, integral to a police or fire station. An individual user within a building, dwelling, or structure976, may therefore activate a switch causing the initiation of a LED pulsed SIT-TEL emergency signal for transmission to a police or fire station without the necessity of use of a telephone.

A significant advantage of utilizing SIT-TEL communication signals in association with an urban suburban communication system966, is the flexibility for the provision of alternate communication mechanisms within free space which minimize the necessity for large expenditures for construction of an infrastructure for a community.

The components, features, and applications as earlier described related to the SIT-TEL LED pulsed light communication system are equally applicable for use in a vehicle to vehicle application.

A vehicle to vehicle SIT-TEL communication application is similar to the earlier described applications related to motor vehicle license plates and aircraft/aviation SIT-TEL communications. In addition, to the SIT-TEL communications as previously identified, an emergency vehicle978, may include anLED light support801, having firstLED illumination sources803, formed intosectors811, as earlier described. In addition, the emergency vehicle978, may include at least onefirst controller815, at least onefirst receiver819, and at least oneconverter821, as coupled to the emergency vehicle electrical system and backup power source such as a battery. Emergency vehicle personnel such a police officer may manipulate thefirst controller815, to either select a pre-programmed SIT-TEL signal or may generate a SIT-TEL signal for transmission from the firstLED illumination sources803. At least onesecond receiver823, at least onesecond controller827, and at least one set of secondLED illumination sources829, may be included within a street and/or a roadway sign. The transmitted SIT-TEL signal as received by thesecond receivers823, integral to the road sign, is preferably processed by thesecond controller827, for issuance of a message such as “congestion”, “accident”, “reduced speed”, and/or any other message as appropriate for communication of traffic conditions. SIT-TEL communications may therefore be passed through free-space from an emergency vehicle978, to alter roadway signs, without use of radio frequency transmissions.

Thefirst controllers815, of the emergency vehicle978, and thesecond controller827, of the roadway signs, may perform recognition protocols to verify authenticity of transmitted instructions and/or messages. In addition, each of thefirst controllers815, of the emergency vehicle978, and thesecond controllers827, of the roadway signs, include identification and recording software to assist in recording of transmitted SIT-TEL instructions.

An emergency vehicle978, may also transmit a SIT-TEL communication signal to a street sign/lamp926, a building, structure, and/or dwelling976, a user site, or to arelay site972, of a urban suburban communication system966, to track the location of the emergency vehicle978, and/or to communicate messages and instructions through the use of SIT-TEL pulsed LED communication signals. An emergency vehicle978, may emit pre-stored and/or real-time free-space communication signals to another motor vehicle, aircraft876, road sign,OPTICOM942, urban suburban communication system966, railroadcrossing warning sign946, and/or any other application as identified herein. Real-time communications may be issued through a keyboard, key pad, and/or voice recognition software integral to the emergency vehicle978.

The SIT-TEL communication system may additionally be incorporated into other types of vehicles including, but not necessarily limited to, snowplows, roadway construction vehicles, ambulances, and/or fire trucks which utilize visual warning lights. (FIG. 72.) In these vehicles a visual warning signal light may be generated simultaneously with the emission of a SIT-TEL pulsed LED light signal.

SIT-TEL communications may be accomplished between a standard motor vehicle and an emergency vehicle978, through the emission of a pulsed LED SIT-TEL signal from an emergency vehicle978, light bar as earlier described. An audible alarm, may be generated requiring an acknowledgment signal by a driver or passenger for actively manipulating a switch to terminate the emission of the audible alarm thereby acknowledging receipt of the SIT-TEL signal from an emergency vehicle. In addition, the manipulation of a switch to terminate the audible alarm, may simultaneously instruct the controller to illuminate LED light sources for transmission of a confirmation SIT-TEL signal to the originating emergency vehicle978.

The SIT-TEL pulsed LED communication system may also be incorporated into aflare1000 which may include all of the features as previously identified related to motor vehicles, license plates, aircraft, airport facilities and vehicles, urban communication systems, marine vessels and buoys, OPTICOM traffic signal devices, railroads, and/or subways.

Referring toFIGS. 78 through 80, the SIT-TEL pulsed LED light communication system andflare1000 are described herein. Theflare1000 includes acasing1002 and amain body1004. Thecasing1002 includes achamber1006. Positioned within thechamber1006 is the SIT-TEL pulsed LED light control system including afirst controller815 and aparachute1008. Within thechamber1006 is located anaffixation bracket1010. Theaffixation bracket1010 is constructed and arranged for attachment to thesupport cords1012 of theparachute1008.

Themain body1004 has acavity1014. Thecavity1014 holds solid fuel propellant and/orother fuel1016 which is used to power the assent of theflare1000 throughengine1018. The exterior of themain body1004 may include one ormore stabilizers1020 to assist in the assent of theflare1000 following discharge from an expulsion device which may be amortar1022. Within thechamber1006 is located thefirst controller815 and battery. Afirst receiver819 which may include photo diodes traverses thecasing1002 proximate to thefirst controller815 andLED illumination sources829. TheLED illumination sources803 are positioned to the exterior and top of thecasing1002 and are in electrical communication with thecontroller815 through wire orother connectors1024. The functions of thefirst controller815, battery, first receiver/photo diodes819 andLED illumination sources829 are identical to the functions as earlier described.

During launch, theflare1000 ascends upwardly where theLED illumination sources803 are identified as being positioned in a location proximate to the nose of theflare1000.

The exhaustion of thesolid fuel propellant1016 by theengine1018 represents the apex of the trajectory of theflare1000. At this point, thecasing1002 separates from themain body1004 to open thecasing1002 for deployment of theparachute1008. Theparachute1008 exits the open end of thecasing1002 to deploy the light emitting diodelight sources803 in a downwardly direction. Following separation of thecasing1002 from themain body1004 an internal switch may be activated and/or a timer may initiate the transmission of pulsed LED SIT-TEL light signals which are used to communicate information to one or moresecond receivers823.

Thefirst receiver819 is adapted to receive, detect, decode, and process potentially encrypted information as communicated by pulsed LED light signals from athird controller1026 for programming and/or storage of messages upon thefirst controller815.

Separation between thecasing1002 andmain body1004 for deployment of theparachute1008 may be assisted by a controlled explosion proximate to theaffixation bracket1010. Theaffixation bracket1010 may be a separation plate which is sealed with respect to the interior walls of thecasing1002 to protect thefirst controller815 from adverse environmental elements. Asecond separation plate1028 may be fixed and/or integral to the interior walls of themain body1004 to enclose thesolid fuel propellant1016 preventing damage to theparachute1008. The secondary explosion to separate thecasing1002 from themain body1004 exposes an opening in the end of thecasing1002 to open thechamber1006 holding theparachute1008 for deployment of theparachute1008 for a prolonged descent of theflare1000.

Theflare1000 may be ejected and/or launched from amortar1022. Themortar1022 may be transportable for positioning at any desired location within an operational theater. Alternatively, theflare1000 may be dropped form an aircraft and/or launched as a missile.

Athird controller1026 may be proximate to themortar1022 andflare1000. Thethird controller1026 is used to program thefirst controller815 to define the pulsed SIT-TEL LED light messages to be transmitted to troops within an operational theater.

Thethird controller1026 may be connected to athird transmitter1030 which is used to transmit SIT-TEL pulsed light signals to thefirst receiver819 for storage upon thefirst controller815. Thethird controller1026 may further include a third receiver which is used to receive SIT-TEL pulsed LED light signals from an external controller or signal processor, for further transmission to and storage upon thefirst controller815 of theflare1000.

SIT-TEL pulsed light communication signals are generated by theLED illumination sources803 of theflare1000 to be received byfourth receivers1032 as integral to afourth controller1033 which is proximate to troops within an operational theater.

Thefourth controller1033 andfourth receiver1032 may be incorporated into a hand held transportable unit which may be carried in the pocket of an individual and/or hidden from observation during periods of non-use.

Thefourth controller1033 preferably includes adisplay1034 which may be similar to the earlier embodiments as described.

Afourth transmitter1036 as electrically coupled tofourth controller1033 may be used to communicate pulsed LED light signals from the ground to thefirst receiver819 of theflare1000.

Theflare1000 including the SIT-TEL communication system may be used as a back-up to radio transmissions within an operational theater. In addition, theflare1000 including the SIT-TEL pulsed LED light communication system may be utilized when radio transmissions are not available in order to maintain secrecy of the location of troops.

Theflare1000 including the SIT-TEL communication system in conjunction with thefourth controller1033 andfourth receivers1032 enables troops to receive communications through the use of pulsed LED light signals. TheLED illumination sources803 as coupled to thefirst controller815 are sturdy and sufficiently strong to withstand shock exposed to theflare1000 following discharge of thesolid fuel propellant1016 from theengine1018.

Alternatively, prior to deployment, theflare1000 may be coupled to thethird controller1026 which may be a central processing unit via acable1038. Information including encryption and/or encoding information may be passed from the central processing unit ofthird controller1026 tofirst controller815 for future transmission from LEDlight sources803 during use offlare1000. The coupling of thethird controller1026 to theflare1000 may occur proximate to the location of thefirst receiver819.

In addition to being directed to the embodiments described above and claimed below, the present invention is further directed to embodiments having different combinations of the features described above and claimed below. As such, the invention is also directed to other embodiments having any other possible combination of the dependent features claimed below.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential attributes thereof; and it is, therefore, desired that the present embodiment be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive, reference being made to the appended claims rather than to the foregoing description to indicate the scope of the invention.