Interpretation ID: 86-4.41

TYPE: INTERPRETATION-NHTSA

DATE: 08/13/86

FROM: AUTHOR UNAVAILABLE; Erika Z. Jones; NHTSA

TO: W. K. Sherman

TITLE: FMVSS INTERPRETATION

TEXT:

Mr. W. K. Sherman Manager Inventors Research Foundation P.O. Box 02588 Portland, OR 97202

Dear Mr. Sherman:

This is in reply to your letter of June 30, 1986, with reference to the possible interest of this agency in an illuminated license plate holder which is lit when the ignition is turned on.

The agency does not "approve" or promote proprietary items of lighting equipment. It does require illumination of the rear license plate in the manner set forth in SAE J587 October 81 (incorporated by reference in Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 108 Laps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment) but there is no requirement for illumination of the font plate; however, consideration is being given to proposing the installation of a daytime running light on the front of vehicles, as Canada has recently done. Should the agency issue a formal proposal your client may wish to submit comments to the docket with reference to its device. Your client may also wish to examine current Federal rear lighting requirements to determine whether a vehicle equipped with its device would meet Standard No. 108 If so, it may wish to market the device as original or aftermarket equipment.

Sincerely,

Erika Z. Jones Chief Counsel

June 30, 1986

Chairman National Highway Traffic Safety Administration 7th and D S.W. Washington, D.C.20007

Gentlemen:

Neil Goldschmidt of Oregon has suggested we refer our client's auto license plate concept to you for possible interest.

This device is an illuminated auto license plate holder which is a metal box with translucent plastic front, permanently attached to an auto. Two lights are turned on with the ignition, thus contributing considerably to the visibility and safety of motor vehicles.

If you would like to know more details we shall be glad to oblige.

The device has been registered with th Patent office under the Disclosure Document Act.

We anticipate your interest.

Sincerely,

INVENTORS RESEARCH FOUNDATION (IRF) W. K. Sherman, manager

WKS/bd cc:Client