GB2607008A

GB2607008A - A displaceable vehicle top sign

Info

Publication number: GB2607008A
Application number: GB2107089.1A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Yazdan Mohammad
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2021-05-18
Filing date: 2021-05-18
Publication date: 2022-11-30
Anticipated expiration: 2041-05-18
Also published as: GB202107089D0; GB2607008B

Abstract

The present invention relates to a displaceable vehicle top for advising of a learning or practicing driver. The sign has a first panel and a second panel joined to and pivotable about a connecting member at proximal ends of the panels and a vehicle attachment portion that is joined to at least one distal end of either the first panel or the second panel; the displaceable vehicle top sign is arrangeable in a first configuration. Wherein the vehicle top sign is attached to a vehicle roof by the vehicle attachment means and the first and second panels are configured to face in opposing directions in which the distal ends of the panels are splayed outwards with respect to the connecting member; and in a second configuration wherein the panels, connecting member and vehicle attachment means are substantially parallel to one another for storage or transport.

Description

A DISPLACEABLE VEHICLE TOP SIGN

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to displaceable vehicle top sign, in particular a displaceable sign suitable to warn other road users, for example of a learning or practicing driver.

Background

Increasing numbers of societies across the world are vehicular, and it can be increasingly important for many to learn to drive a vehicle. This is leading to an increasing quantity of vehicles on the roads and highways of these societies.

Accordingly learning to drive can be a problematic and dangerous endeavour. It is always best to signal to all other drivers that the driver is learning. In most societies there is a recognised standard of signing to other road users that the driver is a learner.

However when the vehicle is not a professional learning vehicle, there can be problems 20 in making an effective sign for other road users. Typically magnetic or tied on signs are small and relatively unobtrusive so that they can be easily stored when not in use. However, this may mean that the sign is not very obvious to other drivers.

Prior Art

US 2004 0 074 122 (GOODWIN) discloses a permit driver/young driver warning device comprising a reflective sign mountable on a vehicle roof to warn other drivers that a beginner driver driving the vehicle pursuant to a learner's permit only is driving the vehicle. The trapezoidal warning sign can take several geometric forms, such as having two to four extensive planar sides, and is removably attachable to the roof of the vehicle. Illumination on two or four sides inside the device can be provided by either incandescent lamps, fluorescent lamps, light emitting diodes, and mixtures thereof.

FR 2 834 374 (AILLAUD) discloses a motor vehicle roof mounted advertising display 35 has three rectangular panels of common dimensions connected together at their smaller sides to form three visible faces. Each panel has a folding foot on each longer side, on which a flexible permanent magnet is fixed. Recesses at each side of each joint between the panel and foot allows alignment of the assembly formed by the magnet and foot.

US 5 711 100 (ELMER) discloses an advertising sign for removably mounting onto a metal panel of a motor vehicle, comprising: an advertising member having a base, ends and sides formed together into a completely enclosed hollow body, the base including plural magnet receptacles with a magnet fastened in each receptacle; each said magnet comprising a dish-shaped housing with a magnetic member within each housing, the housing having an edge extending below the magnetic member; and means for pivotally attaching each magnet to the base so that each magnet can pivot and adjust to differences in slope along a vehicle metal panel to which the advertising sign may be attached.

The present invention arose in order to overcome problems suffered by existing devices.

Summary of the Invention

According to the present invention there is provided a displaceable vehicle top sign for advising of a learning or practicing driver; comprising a first panel and a second panel joined to and pivotable about a connecting member at proximal ends of the panels; and a vehicle attachment portion that is joined to at least one distal end of either the first panel or the second panel; the displaceable vehicle top sign is arrangeable in a first configuration wherein the vehicle top sign is attached to a vehicle roof by the vehicle attachment means and in which the distal ends of the panels are splayed outwards with respect to each other; and in a second configuration wherein the panels and vehicle attachment means are folded to be arranged substantially parallel to one another for storage or transport.

In this way a sign can be easily arranged on a vehicle when in use and then displaced from the vehicle and stowed when not in use.

The panels are discrete plates, each having a front and a rear face. The front faces 35 project outwards so as to be visible to passing traffic. The rear faces are directed towards each other in use.

In preferred embodiments the sign is lit by at least one light source connected to a power supply so as to illuminate signage that indicates a learning driver.

In some embodiments the panels comprise an illuminated part, for example comprising an internal or external light source, which light source may be envisaged to illuminate through a transparent or translucent window, so as to provide illumination to a part or all of the panel, so as to better draw attention to information displayed in or on the panel.

In some preferred embodiments a front face of the panel displays an illuminated 'L to indicate a learner driver, or an L shaped light source may be provided on the panels. For example, one or both panels may incorporate an LED (light emitting diode) halo and red lens that is configured or arranged to display an L shape or illuminate an L on the panel so that this stands out and increase awareness to other road users. It is appreciated that other specific lighting may be provided for example different illuminated lettering or symbols.

Preferably the sign has at least two lights, an L shaped light and at least one sign light 20 that illuminates an outer face of the panel.

It is appreciated that the same arrangement of lights may be provided on each outer face of the panel so that the signage is clearly visible from both sides.

The sign has a power supply to provide an energy source for at least one light source. The power supply may be at least one battery. Preferably the at least one battery is an internal battery, for example the one or battery may be housed by one of the panels. In some embodiments the at least one battery may be displaceable and/or rechargeable. A charging port may be provided to charge rechargeable batteries. In some embodiments the energy source may comprise a wired supply from an external power source, such as a vehicle battery.

Preferably the at least one light source is activated by a switch. Ideally the switch is provided on a side edge of one of the panels so that it can be easily reached when the 35 sign is mounted on the roof of a vehicle.

The switch may have multiple positions to activate different modes. For example, a 4-position switch may be provided in which in position 1 all lights are off, in position 2 an L shaped light is lit, but a sign light is off, in position 3 the L shaped light is off, and the sign light is on and in position 4 all lights are on.

In some embodiments a separate light source is provided to indicate battery status. For example, one or more LED may be arranged on the panel and when lit the LED may indicate that the battery level is low. In further embodiments the colour of the light emitted may indicate charge status, for example, a green light may indicate full charge, an amber light may indicate some charge and a red light may indicate low charge remaining. Preferably battery status lights may be provided on a side edge of one of the panels. For example, the status light(s) may be provided next to the switch.

In some embodiments the device may comprise an energy harvesting means to 15 provide or supplement an energy source. For example the device may comprise a turbine, and/or a photovoltaic cell or cells.

In some embodiments the vehicle attachment means provides a curved base to accommodate a curve to the vehicle roof.

In some embodiments a layer of soft protective material is provided on the vehicle attachment means so that the part engaging with the vehicle is covered in order to prevent scratches to the vehicle. For example, a rubber padding, cellular structure such as foam or a silicone plastic may cover part of the vehicle attachment means to prevent scratches.

In a preferred embodiment the vehicle attachment means comprises a ferromagnet so as to permit a magnetic connection with the vehicle.

For example the vehicle attachment means may comprise one or more magnet or one or more electromagnet.

In some embodiments the vehicle attachment means may comprise an activation means, such that the activation means may be moved between a first and second 35 position, such that the device may be envisaged to be located onto the vehicle and the vehicle attachment means selectively activated according to requirements. In this way the device may be easier to remove when not required, allowing for more effective temporary usage.

This is particularly advantageous for a temporary usage pattern such as for use with 5 intermediate learning drivers when signage is only required at certain times.

The activation means may comprise an electromagnetic activation means, for example providing an electrical current from the energy source.

Such activation means may comprise a mechanical means, for example moving one or more magnetic portion of the vehicle attachment means into an activated position where the portions will be able to contact or attract the vehicle bodywork.

Preferably the connection member may comprise a hinge or pivot so that the panels can rotate with respect to the connection member. In this way the panels may be moved to the first configuration in which the distal ends of the panels splay open and to the second configuration in which the panels are closed together so as to be parallel. The movement of the panels is permitted by means of the connection member that is a hinge.

In some embodiments the connection member may comprise a plurality of portions that form a hinge connection.

In other embodiments the connecting member may comprise a clip portion so as to 25 hold the panels in the second and/or first position.

The connection member is connected to the proximal edges of the panels.

Preferably the vehicle attachment means are attached to distal ends of panels by 30 means of a hinge. In this way the vehicle attachment means can also be folded so as to engage with a vehicle roof and then reconfigured to the second position for storage.

In some embodiments the vehicle attachment means may be permanently connected to the panels.

In other embodiments the vehicle attachment means may be temporarily connected to the panel or panels. For example the panels may be clipped into or onto the vehicle attachment means in the second position.

In use the sign is configured to as to engage the vehicle attachment means with the vehicle roof such that the front face of the first panel faces outwards towards the front of a vehicle and so that the front face of the second panel faces outwards towards the rear of the vehicle.

When removed from the vehicle the sign can be folded so that the panels and vehicle attachment means are substantially parallel one to another, or so that at least the sign is laid out flat, so as to be easily stored.

A preferred embodiment of the invention will now be described by way of example only 15 and with reference to the Figures in which:

Brief Description of Figures

Figure 1 shows an isometric view of an embodiment of the device according to the present invention in the first position; Figure 2 shows a reverse isometric view of the embodiment shown in Figure 1; Figure 3 shows an isometric view of the embodiment shown in Figure 1, in the second 25 position; Figure 4 shows an isometric view of the embodiment as shown in Figure 1, with a panel removed and the vehicle attachment portions activated; Figure 5 shows an isometric view of the embodiment as shown in Figure 1, with a panel removed and the vehicle attachment portions deactivated; Figure 6 shows an exploded isometric view of the embodiment shown in Figure 1; Figure 7 shows a reverse exploded isometric view of the embodiment shown in Figure 1; Figure 8 shows an isometric view of a second embodiment of the device according to the present invention; Figure 9 shows a reverse isometric view of the embodiment shown in Figure 8; Figure 10 shows an isometric view of a third embodiment of the device according to the present invention; and Figure 11 shows a reverse isometric view of the embodiment shown in Figure 10.

Detailed Description of Figures

With reference to the pictured first embodiment shown in Figure 1 to 7 there is shown 15 an embodiment of the displaceable vehicle top sign. The sign is displaceable as it can be fitted to the vehicle and removed as necessary.

The displaceable vehicle top sign 99 is suitable to warn of a learning or practicing driver. The sign has a first panel 3 and a second panel 8 connected together by a 20 connecting member 1.

In the first configuration as shown in Figure 1, the panels 3, 8 have front faces arranged in opposing directions so that the first panel faces outwards towards the front of the vehicle and so that the second panel 8 faces outwards towards the rear of the vehicle.

The panels 3, 8, attach at proximal ends to the connecting member 1. The panels 3, 8 connect along the length of their proximal edge by means of a hinge (not shown).

The hinge is arranged to allow the panels 3,8 to move from a second position where 30 the panels are substantially parallel for storage or transport, to a first position where the panels splay apart to provide a larger base area for engagement of the vehicle attachment means 5.

In particular reference to the pictured embodiment the two panels 3, 8 are rectangular 35 elongate panels, extending laterally in use.

The front faces of the panels 3, 8 with a written warning that the driver is a Learner Driver, and include substantially square sections 2 to the left end that display the recognised symbols for Learner Driver (an 'L').

The panels 3, 8 have blank rear faces, and are connected to one another by the connecting member 1 that is an elongate spur in the pictured embodiment. The connecting member 1 has elongate hinges along either edge for connecting to proximal edges of the panels 3, 8.

The pictured connection member 1 spaces apart the panels laterally enabling a shallower respective incline when the distal ends of the panels 3, Bare splayed. This configuration provides a larger space below the connection member 1 to locate and engage the vehicle attachment means.

The vehicle attachment means shown in Figures 1 to 7 comprises two elongate bases 4, which bases are hinged to the bottom (distal) edge 10 of each panel 3, 8 (see Figure 6). In the first position the bases 4 engage with the vehicle roof and the panels extend at an acute angle with respect to the bases 4 (See Figures 1 and 2).

The vehicle attachment means (bases) 4 include magnetic portions 9, which are integrated within the base 4.

Each pictured base 4 includes two magnetic portions 9, one at each end.

The magnetic portions 9 are arranged to pivot from a first position parallel the base (see Figure 4), where the magnets are positioned in order to attract and engage with the vehicle bodywork (an activated state) to a second position where the magnetic portions are separated from the vehicle and thus in a deactivated state as the magnetic portion is not in contact with the vehicle (see Figure 5).

In order therefore to activate the magnetic portions 9 and attach the pictured embodiment to the vehicle's roof the user simply moves the magnetic portions about the pivot point so that the four magnetic portions are down, substantially parallel to the vehicle roof and therefore engage with the roof (not shown).

In order to remove the embodiment from the roof after use the user simply flips up the four magnetic portions 9 as shown in Figure 5 towards the centreline of the bases 4 thereby deactivating the sign's vehicle attachment means.

In order to store or transport the sign 99 after it has been displaced from the roof, the user folds up the vehicle attachment means 4 against the rear face of the panels 3, 8, and brings the panels in towards each other, as shown in Figure 2, The connection member 1 provides a spacing width for the top edge of the panels that allows the vehicle attachment means to be folded inwards and the panels 3, 8 to be parallel. In this way the embodiment provides a compact rectanguloid shape in the first position. Advantageously the magnetic portions may be envisaged to hold the embodiment in the first position.

It is appreciated that in some embodiments the vehicle attachment means may be folded outwards.

The foldable design means the sign 99 takes up less space when not in use and for use the magnets can be quickly disengaged to make removal of the device easier.

The embodiment further includes an internal battery energy source (not shown) and a three-position switch 15 to control the lights, wherein a mode turns on a light source behind a translucent square symbol.

A waterproof power socket 16 further allows the user to charge the device whilst driving.

Red, green and amber LEDs (light emitting diodes) are used to indicate battery status.

With reference to the second embodiment 199 shown in Figures Sand 9 the sign 199 comprises a first panel 3 and a second panel 8 and a panel connecting member 26 that is a hinge.

The vehicle attachment means 24 includes ferromagnetic portions 25 and magnetism 35 release tabs 52. The portions 25 are provided as strips under vehicle attachment means 24, which extend horizontally from the distal panel ends opposing the hinge 26, when the panels 3,8 are arranged as an inverted V shape in use.

The tabs 52 are located at either end of the vehicle attachment means 24, and comprise rocker tabs, with a central pivot, such that when pivoted in a first direction one side of the rocker tab extends below the lower face of the vehicle attachment means and engages with the vehicle, and when pivoted in the opposing direction the rocker tabs 52 are removed from engagement with the vehicle and are substantially coplanar the vehicle attachment means, in a second position.

In this way when in the first direction force must be applied to dislodge the magnetic hold of the rocker tabs from the vehicle top. When in the second position the magnets are not engaged with the roof.

The connecting member 26 may include a spring ball plunger and two or more apertures to enable the first panel 3 and second panel 8 to be moved from a closed configuration to one or more open positions. For devices with two or more apertures this enables the panels to be incrementally spread with respects to each other. In this way the panels can be splayed to different degrees.

The spring ball plunger is depressed to release the sprung ball from a first aperture so that the panels can move about the hinge and the sprung ball can be received by a second aperture.

With reference to the third embodiment (Figures 10 and 11) the displaceable sign 299 has two panels 3, 8 connected by the connection member that is a hinge.

The third embodiment 299 also comprises a ferromagnetic attachment portions arranged on the vehicle attachment means 34 that comprise two elongate flaps 30 extending horizontally from the lower edges of the panels 3, 8 in use.

To provide the means for attaching the sign to the vehicle the flaps 34 include magnets or strips 35 in their lower faces. The flaps 34 further include indented front corners 38, allowing a user to get their fingers under the flap 34 so as to lift the flap easily to break 35 the magnetic hold.

The flaps are arranged on elongate pivot hinges 14 on the panel's 3, 8 distal edges, so as to allow for folding up for storage and transport when not in use. In this embodiment the flaps 34 fold so as to be adjacent and substantially parallel to an outer face of the panel's.

The invention has been described by way of examples only and it will be appreciated that variation may be made to the above-mentioned embodiments without departing from the scope of invention as defined by the claims, in particular but not solely combination of features of described embodiments.

Claims

Claims 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.A displaceable vehicle top sign for advising of a learning or practicing driver; comprising a first panel and a second panel joined to and pivotable about a connecting member at proximal ends of the panels and a vehicle attachment portion that is joined to at least one distal end of either the first panel or the second panel; the displaceable vehicle top sign is arrangeable in a first configuration wherein the vehicle top sign is attached to a vehicle roof by the vehicle attachment means and in which the distal ends of the panels are splayed outwards with respect to each other; and in a second configuration wherein the panels, and vehicle attachment means are folded to be arranged substantially parallel to one another for storage or transport.
A sign according to claim 1 including at least one light source and a power supply to supply a current to the at least one light source.
A sign according to claim 1 or 2 wherein all or part of at least part of one panel is translucent and illuminated by the at least one light source.
A sign according to any preceding claim wherein the vehicle attachment means include at least one ferromagnetic portion.
A sign according to claim 4 wherein the vehicle attachment means include a plurality of magnets.
A sign according to claim 4 or claim 5 wherein the vehicle attachment means are arranged to move from a first active position in which the vehicle attachment means is magnetically connected by the to the vehicle and to a second deactivated position in which the vehicle attachment means is not magnetically connected to the vehicle.
A sign according to any preceding claim wherein the vehicle attachment means are connected to distal ends of at least one panel by a hinge to facilitate movement between the first configuration and second configuration.
8. A sign according to any preceding claim comprising one or more release mechanism to detach the vehicle attachment means from the vehicle.
9. A sign according to claim 8 wherein the release mechanism comprises at least one rocker tab.
10. A sign according to claim 8 wherein the displaceable parts comprise flaps containing a ferromagnetic portion.
11. A sign according to any of claims 2 to 10 wherein the power supply is at least one battery.
12. A sign according to claim 11 including one or more light source to indicate status of the at least one battery.
13. A sign according to claim 11 or claim 12 including at least one light source to indicate battery status.Ammendments to the claims have been filed as followed: Claims 1. A displaceable vehicle top sign for advising of a learning or practicing driver; comprising a first panel and a second panel joined to and pivotable about a connecting member at proximal ends of the panels; and two vehicle attachment portions a first vehicle attachment means joined to a distal end of the first panel by a first hinge and a second vehicle attachment means joined to a distal end of the second panel by means of a second hinge so that together the panels, connecting member and vehicle attachment means form a length of connected parts that can be folded at the connecting member and the first and second hinges; wherein each vehicle attachment portion has a contact surface for engaging with the vehicle bodywork having at least one magnetic portion that is able to pivot from a first position parallel and in contact with the vehicle bodywork (an activated state) to a second position where the at least one magnetic portion is separated from the vehicle (a deactivated state); the C\I displaceable vehicle top sign is arrangeable in a first configuration wherein the C\I vehicle top sign is attached to a vehicle roof by the vehicle attachment means and in which the distal ends of the panels are splayed outwards with respect to each other; and in a second configuration wherein the panels, and vehicle attachment means are folded to be arranged substantially parallel to one another for storage or transport.2. A sign according to claim 1 including at least one light source and a power supply to supply a current to the at least one light source.3. A sign according to claim 1 or 2 wherein all or part of at least part of one panel is translucent and illuminated by the at least one light source.4. A sign according to any preceding claim wherein the vehicle attachment means include a plurality of magnets.5. A sign according to any preceding claim comprising one or more release mechanism to detach the vehicle attachment means from the vehicle.6. A sign according to claim 5 wherein the release mechanism comprises at least one rocker tab.7. A sign according to claim 5 wherein the displaceable parts comprise flaps containing a ferromagnetic portion.8. A sign according to any of claims 2 to 7 wherein the power supply is at least one battery.9. A sign according to claim 8 including one or more light source to indicate status of the at least one battery.10. A sign according to claim 8 or claim 9 including at least one light source to indicate battery status.CV ('Si