Interpretation ID: nht88-1.6

TYPE: INTERPRETATION-NHTSA

DATE: 01/01/88 EST

FROM: JOSEPH P. FAIA

TO: ERIKA Z. JONES -- CHIEF COUNSEL NHTSA

TITLE: NONE

ATTACHMT: ATTACHED TO LETTER DATED 08/19/88 TO JOSEPH P. FAIA FROM ERIKA Z. JONES

TEXT: This letter is in reference to a vehicle lighting accessory for trucks. But its use is not limited to trucks.

On June 3, 1988 I met with Susan Schruth and Richard Van Iderstine, they advised me on questions of legality and design.

The description below is from my patent application.

ABSTRACT

A system for illuminating two-dimensional displays on the sides of vehicle trailers includes a plurality of reflector light assemblies disposed about the perimeter of a side of a trailer. Each light assembly includes a base which is affixed to the si de of the trailer and carries a light source. A housing formed of both a transparent section and semi-translucent sections is joined to the base and encloses the light source. The transparent housing section faces generally tward the center of the trai ler side surface. A concave reflector in the housing together with lens portions in the transparent housing section act to focus light across the trailer side surface to illuminate the two-dimensional display thereon. A lesser quantity of light passes through the semi-translucent section which are tinted and arranged to function as the running lights commonly seen on trailers.

I have also sent the drawings attached to further help explain.

My questions about the use of this light are:

-- Can this light be used as described, as a combonation side illumination and marker light.

-- As a back-up light and parking light, to be used only in these situations.

-- As a stop light, To come on only when brake is applied.

-- As a light to illuminate the side of trailer only. not in combibnation with marker light.

[DRAWING IMITTED])

(DRAWING OMITTED)