Apparatus for selectively displaying associative vehicle operation safety related indicia repeatedly visually perceptible to a vehicle operator

Vehicle operation safety related indicia (VSRI) displaying apparatus(es) disclosed display, adjacent or proximate a vehicle surface at least generally vehicle operator facing, VSRI on a vehicle operator facing surface of a VSRI display member, slidably positionable between a VSRI non-revealed and a VSRI revealed state displaying VSRI extended outwardly from a side of the apparatus. VSRI subject-matter, optionally-illuminated and/or electro-mechanically positioned, depicts one or more objects extending outwardly from at least one side of a vehicle having an in-use VSRI display apparatus, or from a vehicle rack or towed device. VSRI display apparatus variants include a housing or body appearing and/or shaped like the vehicle, or side(s) thereof, having an in-use apparatus. Secondary indicia displaying surface-areas also provided, concurrently display additional VSRI and/or advertising, promotional or cross-promotional content associated with a maker, proprietor or service-provider of VSRI depicted subject matter, wherein all VSRI is repeatedly visually perceptible and viewable at-a-glance.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to the field of vehicle operation safety awareness-increasing apparatus(es), products, and methods of using such, and more particularly relates to employing any one or more of such to increase vehicle operation safety awareness of a vehicle operator when operating a vehicle while one or more objects, extending outwardly from at least one side of the vehicle are moved by, or along with, the vehicle. The invention further relates to apparatuses and methods for selectively displaying vehicle-operation safety-related indicia or content, located unobtrusively in a viewable-at-a-glance and visually non-impairing manner, on, adjacent or proximate a vehicle-operator facing surface, so as to be repeatedly visually perceptible to a vehicle operator, to enhance vehicle-operation safety awareness while the vehicle is operated, wherein the indicia or content is indicative of, and suitable to serve as a reminder to a vehicle operator, of one or more objects extending outwardly from at least one side of the vehicle operated by the vehicle operator.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

One or more of the problems addressed by the present invention occur when a vehicle is moving, conveying or transporting one or more objects extending outwardly from at least one side of the vehicle e.g., when attached or secured thereto, and the vehicle operator, for example a driver of an automobile, truck, SUV or RV forgets, or momentarily fails to keep in mind, that such objects extend beyond, or significantly beyond, the exterior surface and/or normal exterior size of the vehicle, and then directs the vehicle in a manner causing some, costly and/or irreparable damage to one or more of: the one or more moved or transported objects, other object(s) proximate the vehicle, the vehicle itself, or one or more bystanders. A common example of this, unfortunately occurring too often, is when a driver first secures one or more bicycles onto a bicycle rack fastened to a top side, or adjacent a rear-end side of a car, SUV or RV, and not having the bicycle(s) readily in view and/or in mind then directs the car. SUV or RV such that some (or a major) portion of the bicycle(s) collides with a fixed object proximate to the vehicle. For example, this can easily occur with the bicycle(s) secured to a rack above a car or SUV when the vehicle is driven into or out of one's garage, or into or out of a multilevel parking facility, or when driving under one or more other obstruction(s) that are too low, and not taking into account the added height of the bicycle(s) extending upwardly (or outwardly) from an exterior side of the car or SUV. Relatedly, a moving or transporting of one or more objects extending outwardly from at least one side of a vehicle may inadvertently get humped, become loosened or dislodged from a respective rack secured to a vehicle in a manner that goes unnoticed by the vehicle operator, causing the one or more objects to subsequently be damaged, cause damage or create a driving hazard or vehicle related injury. For example, by an object, or portion thereof, falling off or being dislodged from the vehicle.

In many instances, the number of vehicle operating errors and potentially costly consequences thereof could be significantly reduced or avoided by vehicle operators keeping better in mind the fact that one or more objects being moved or transported by a vehicle they are operating, are extending outwardly, or significantly so, from at least one side of that vehicle, and it is among the objects of the present invention to increase such an awareness. For example, by providing a compact, unobtrusively placed apparatus fastenable at a location viewable-at-a-glance to the vehicle-operator, and visually non-impairing to the vehicle-operator's view when normally operating the vehicle or when looking forward, wherein the apparatus preferably in reach of the vehicle operator displays indicia, selectively revealed by the operator, indicative of and reminding the operator of one or more objects extending outwardly from at least one side of the vehicle.

Of course, minor, costly and/or irreparable vehicle-operating error related damage and/or injury, is not limited to merely a moving or transporting of one or more bicycles mounted on a rack secured adjacent a side of a vehicle and extending upwardly or outwardly therefrom. For example, a moving or transporting of any of a variety of other one or more objects can also cause similar damage or injury, including but not limited to, any one or more of the following: surf boards, wave boards, skis, snow boards, canoes, kayaks, boats, water craft, pieces of luggage, storage receptacles, bins or boxes, racks, a towed trailer, a towed vehicle, a towed recreational vehicle, longitudinally extending objects or poles, and the like. Accordingly, it would advantageous to provide methods and apparatus variants operable for selectively displaying indicia indicative of and reminding a vehicle-operator of any one or more of the foregoing, as any one or more of such are moved or transported on a vehicle while extending upwardly and/or outwardly therefrom, and such that, the indicia viewable-at-a-glance to the vehicle-operator, serves as a pervasive and repeatedly perceptible vehicle operation safety related reminder, and it is among the objects of the present invention to provide such methods and apparatus embodiment variants.

TERMS USED IN THE SPECIFICATION

The term “vehicle-operation safety-related indicia” and acronym thereof ‘VSRI’ as used in the specification refer to subject matter, preferably discernible-at-a-glance and located so as to be repeatedly visually perceptible to a vehicle operator, which is associative of, representative of, or a depiction of one or more objects transported by or moved along with a vehicle operated by vehicle operator and extending outwardly from at least one side of the vehicle.

The term “compact” as used in the specification, including, but not limited to “compact-sized” or “compact-in-size”, with respect to a size-range of preferred ones of the VSRI display apparatus embodiments and/or an area at, adjacent or proximate which a VSRI display apparatus is mounted or releasably attached, is somewhat relative, depending on the size of the vehicle in which a VSRI apparatus is in use, and/or the size or type of surface on which the apparatus is installed. For example, when a VSRI display apparatus is installed onto an interior, or generally vehicle-operator facing surface of a windshield in an average-sized automobile or SUV, a preferable ‘compact’ size-range, would be from about the size of a business card or a packaged deck of playing cards to about that of a personal checkbook, taking into account that the apparatus is sized and shaped so as to not be visually impairing to a vehicle operator normally operating the vehicle. When the apparatus is installed onto generally vehicle-operator facing surface of a dashboard, instrument or control panel (or vent-slat thereof) in a common and/or average sized automobile or SUV, a preferable ‘compact’ size-range, can be somewhat larger. In vehicles with considerably larger windshields and/or dashboards, or instrument panels e.g., those of ships, larger boats, recreational vehicles, large construction or transportation vehicles, and the like, a preferable ‘compact’ size-range, can be ‘scaled-up’ e.g., proportionally, relative to such considerably increased size vehicles.

The advantages of the invention will be set forth, in part, in the description below, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The advantages of the invention may be realized and obtained by the combinations set forth herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

With respect toFIGS. 1A through 1E, each is a two-dimensional side-view of one of the preferred embodiments of a VSRI display apparatus10of the present invention.FIGS. 1A and 1Crespectively depict a vehicle-operator facing surface32and side of a VSRI display apparatus10, wherein inFIG. 1Aa slidably positionable VSRI display member12is shown positioned to a maximum outwardly-extended state (or VSRI revealed state), and inFIG. 1Cdisplay member12is shown positioned to a fully retracted state (or VSRI non-revealed state). InFIG. 1CVSRI display member12and VSRI thereon slidably positioned to a VSRI non-revealed state within display apparatus body22are represented having a dashed outline.FIGS. 1B and 1Dare each two-dimensional side view depictions ofFIGS. 1B and 1Drespectively i.e., their respective VSRI revealed states and VSRI non-revealed states.FIG. 1Eis an end view of the VSRI display apparatus ofFIGS. 1A-1D.

InFIG. 1A, a display apparatus housing22(or body) preferably of a compact size is depicted, adapted to be mounted or releasably attached to at least a generally vehicle-operator facing surface of a vehicle (e.g., a windshield), by one or more suitable apparatus fasteners or fastening means58adjacent rear side28(seeFIGS. 1B and 1D) e.g., comprising an adhesive material, or peel-off sheet which reveals an adhesive material for use. It is noted that one or more of a variety of other fasteners or releasable fasteners can be adapted to a rear side28of an apparatus body22and are alternatively employable, for example, including but not limited to, one or more clips, hook-and-loop fasteners, adhesive double-sided tapes or materials, suction cups, hooks engageable within mounted loops, clamps, and the like.

The display apparatus housing22ofFIG. 1AandFIG. 1Cis depicted releasably attached to at least a generally vehicle-operator facing surface of a vehicle (e.g., a windshield) having a generally rectangular shape and interiorly comprising a principally rectangular shaped cavity44(depicted with a dashed-line perimeter) formed intermediate a housing front side32at least generally vehicle-operator facing, and a housing back side28facing a vehicle surface which is also at least generally vehicle-operator facing.FIGS. 1A and 1Bfurther depict, extending outwardly to the right of the apparatus housing22and cavity44a slidably positionable vehicle operation safety-related indicia (‘VSRI’) display member12having displayed on a normally vehicle-operator facing surface thereof, (vehicle safety-related indicia) ‘VSRI’14, more particularly (inFIGS. 1A and 1C) VSRI indicative or representative of a bicycle on a rack40.FIGS. 1A and 1Bfurther depict the VSRI display member12slidably positioned to an indicia displaying VSRI revealed state, having a fully extended range indicated by a bracket16. VSRI of a VSRI display member, when selectively slid to a VSRI revealed state, is indicative of, representative of, or depicts, one or more objects extending outwardly from a side of a vehicle (i.e., the vehicle having a VSRI display apparatus10installed for use). The VSRI is thereby viewable and/or discernible at-a-glance in a repeatedly visually perceptible manner, to serve as a reminder of a like or similar actual one or more objects currently, or about to be, extending outwardly from a side of the actual vehicle. For example, a bicycle supported by a rack (e.g. of a type commonly employ atop a roof of an automobile) is selectively revealable as VSRI14by a VSRI display apparatus10by the operator of the automobile, when an actual bicycle secured to a roof rack mounted on the automobile, is currently, or about to be, transported by, or moved along with the automobile.

FIG. 1Afurther depicts an option to include on the front side, vehicle-operator facing surface32, a secondary indicia display area42shown having dotted-line perimeter (e.g., depicted on a surface32located inFIG. 1Anear a distal end24of the apparatus). Preferably indicia displayed in a secondary indicia display area42, displayed on any portion of a vehicle-operator facing surface32, is of a type relating to or associated with VSRI14of a VSRI display member concurrently slidably positioned to a VSRI revealed state. For example, information relating to a business entity providing one or more products and/or services associated with a VSRI14depicted one or more objects displayed on a VSRI display member12slidably positioned to a VSRI revealed state. More particularly, such information can include promotional or cross-promotional subject matter or content relating to one of a maker of, proprietor of, or service-provider associated with, indicia (VSRI) depicting or representational of one or more objects currently adjacent and extending outwardly from at least one side of a vehicle operated by, or about to be operated by, a vehicle operator. Such an entity may be an insurance company or business having an interest in proactively promoting vehicle-operation safety and the safety of vehicle operators, passengers, individuals, or other vehicles nearby, and the like. Other entities can include, but are not limited to, vehicle selling, rental or leasing businesses, makers of vehicle racks and/or vehicle rack mountable objects such as watercraft, skis, trailers, recreational vehicles, vehicles that can be towed, luggage, containers, and the Like. Additionally, or alternatively a secondary indicia display area42may be sized and shaped to include a displaying of a business card and/or company, brand or trademarked logo, and/or be equipped with a pocket or envelope into which a chosen business card or related indicia, information or content can selectively be inserted. Accordingly, an advertising, promotional or cross-promotional utility of a VSRI display apparatus10is also provided wherein any of such business entities can gain and/or accrue an increased awareness, relatedness to and/or association with VSRI of a revealed state VSRI display member12when concurrently represented in a indicia display area42, wherein both are viewable at-a-glance and repeatedly visually perceptible to a vehicle operator (e.g., in a manner not visually impairing to a vehicle normally operated).

It is noted that the size and shape of the secondary indicia display area42depicted inFIG. 1Ais merely an example, and that different sizes and shapes are alternatively employable. It is further noted that the planar appearance of the secondary indicia display area42depicted inFIG. 1Ais merely a planar surface area example, and that different surfaces or contoured surfaces within a display area42are alternatively employable. For example, black-and-white, grayscale or color two-dimensional and/or three-dimensional indicia and/or alphanumeric text, symbols or characters, and the like, can be provided within a display area42, wherein some or all of the indicia is one or more of: milled, CNC milled, laser cut, carved, routed, formed, embossed, printed, painted, silk-screened, displayable as pixelated or HD pixelated image content, etched, sand-blasted, masked, photo-luminescent, a hologram, reflective, translucent, placed, compounded, snapped on, pegged, force-fit, attached, adhered, screwed on, hung, glued, stapled, and the like.

It is noted that a secondary indicia or ‘secondary VSRI’ of a display surface area of a VSRI display apparatus normally vehicle operator facing, can be adapted to concurrently display or additionally comprise information relating to a maker of, or proprietor of, or service-provider associated with, a depicted one or more objects of a VSRI display member slidably positioned to a VSRI revealed state located adjacent the display surface area, wherein the information displayed is attached to, or adhered to, or inserted into a pocket or receptacle attached adjacent, the secondary VSRI display surface area. For example, wherein a business card of an individual or business entity is thus displayed.

Similarly, a VSRI display apparatus secondary VSRI display surface area normally vehicle operator facing, can be adapted to concurrently display or additionally comprise a depiction of a vehicle and/or information relating to or associated with at least one of a seller, or a renter, or a leaser of a vehicle (entity or individual) such that the secondary VSRI is concurrently located adjacent a VSRI display member slidably positioned to a VSRI revealed state, and wherein, the information displayed is attached to, or adhered to, or inserted into a pocket or receptacle attached adjacent, the secondary VSRI display surface area.

Embodiments of the present invention include variants wherein a secondary VSRI display surface area of a VSRI display apparatus normally vehicle operator facing, comprises three-dimensionally formed or rendered secondary VSRI. For example, comprising 3D text, business name, logo, trademark, brand, representation of a vehicle or vehicle type. For example, including, but not limited to a forming and/or rendering of 3D secondary VSRI by milled, laser cut, routed, carved, manually or by CNC enabled devices, or made of a casted or injection molded polymer material, vacuum molded, fabricated and so forth. Such three-dimensionally formed or rendered secondary VSRI, preferably relate to and/or are associated with a given one of: a maker of, a proprietor of, a service-provider associated with a depicted one or more objects of a VSRI display member slidably positionable to a VSRI revealed state, displayed concurrently adjacent the display surface area. Or related to and/or associated with one of: a seller, a renter, a leaser of a vehicle or vehicle type wherein the secondary VSRI display surface area commonly having one or more objects extending outwardly from at least one side of the vehicle or the vehicle type, that are of a type depicted by a VSRI display member slidably positioned to a VSRI revealed state adjacent the VSRI display.

In a first variant of theFIGS. 1A-1Eembodiment, VSRI display member12is manually positionable in a slidable manner by hand or by one or more digits thereof, by a pushing inwardly on, or pulling outwardly of, a distal end portion of an indicia display member or a handle18(or end-grip) thereof, which in turn causes VSRI display member12to slide respectively inwardly and outwardly within housing passageway34of apparatus body side26in alignment with cavity44interior walls. Optionally end-grip18can include a display member grip-assist contoured portion20for example, an elongate groove suitable for engagement by a finger end, thumb nail or fingernail. Alternatively, the contour may be a raised or outwardly extending portion such as an elongate ridge, detent, flange, or a tab (not shown).

In a second variant of theFIGS. 1A-1Eembodiment, VSRI display member12is manually positionable in a slidable manner by hand or by one or more digits thereof, for example when either approach imparts a lateral moving of a display member positioning lever or tab30associated with a VSRI display member12(e.g., extending outwardly from an end portion of a longer side thereof), which in turn imparts a corresponding lateral movement to display member12. For example, wherein the lever or tab30extends outwardly sufficiently through a positioning lever elongate slot38(also depicted inFIGS. 1B-1D) so as to render easy adjustments. Preferably the lever or tab30shown extending outwardly through a slot38is configured such that at least one end or side thereof also serves as a lateral movement stop, for example to prevent a VSRI display member12from accidently sliding out of a display apparatus body22.

In a manufacturing or making of some or all of a VSRI display apparatus10one or more of a variety of materials can be used. For example, the apparatus depicted inFIG. 1Acan be made, comprising one or more of: wood(s), plastic(s), metal(s), paper(s), paperboard(s), card stock, or other planar and/or foldable sheet material(s). Designs of the preferred embodiments of the present invention described herein are such that a suitable one or more processes are enabled, such as: machining, forming, injection or vacuum molding, stamping, fabricating, die-cutting, laminating, fastening, welding, sonic welding, embossing, perforating, cutting, depositing or compositing, sand-blasting and/or forming of one or more of its components is/are employed. For example, with respect toFIGS. 1A-1E, and 4A-5B, a making of VSRI display apparatus10can comprise an aligning of separate sides of an upper housing portion and lower housing portion of a VSRI display apparatus10, (or hinged clam-shell like arrangement), wherein the sides are brought into alignment with and are adjoining one another, such that a VSRI display member12is aligned with a housing passageway34and an end portion of cavity44(optionally including a tab or lever of a display member12brought into alignment with a elongate slot38), and such that the positionable VSRI display member12is slidably operable within the display apparatus housing22in a manner previously described.

FIG. 1Afurther depicts a vehicle windshield48(shown in partial view) and an option of preferably locating and installing a VSRI display apparatus10proximate or adjacent a vehicle windshield perimeter portion50, or a vehicle windshield corner52, such as a vehicle windshield upper left perimeter portion. Thus installed, and within reach of a vehicle-operator, a manual positioning of the apparatus' slidable VSRI display member12(in a manner previous described) allows member12to be selectively slid to the right, to its fully-extended range indicated by bracket16, which in turn, fully reveals VSRI14thereon, providing an aforementioned discernible or viewable at-a-glance and repeatedly visually perceptible reminders of such object(s), thereby serving to enhance safety during one or more operations of the vehicle. When the vehicle-operator is no longer transporting, or moving along with the vehicle, one or more objects extending outwardly from a side thereof, he or she may simply manually slide the slidable VSRI display member12to the left such that the display member12is fully concealed, a fully retracted stated including only the end-grip18(see retracted range/bracket36), and such that the VSRI display apparatus10is then fully minimized in size.

FIGS. 2A and 2Bare each a two-dimensional depiction of a VSRI display apparatus10operable in a manner previously described, and unobtrusively mounted, or releasably fastened to an interior-facing surface of a vehicle windshield48, in reach of, and in a manlier not impeding a view of, a vehicle operator when normally looking forward.FIG. 2Adepicts a windshield48e.g., of a type including a rear-view mirror54, accommodating in a first instance, a vehicle-operator nearest a VSRI display apparatus10installed for operation proximate or adjacent an upper left portion of the windshield such that a VSRI display member12is extendable for to the right for a displaying of VSRI, or, in a second instance, accommodating a vehicle-operator nearest a VSRI display apparatus10installed adjacent an upper right portion of the windshield such that a VSRI display member12is extendable for to the left for a displaying of VSRI. In either case inFIG. 2A, a given VSRI display apparatus10is depicted mounted in a compact-sized area adjacent or proximate a respective upper windshield corner52and/or windshield perimeter portion50and is so located to be within reach of a respective nearest vehicle-operator of the vehicle and thereby operable in a manner previously described.

FIG. 2Bdepicts options to unobtrusively mount or releasably fasten a first VSRI display apparatus10in a compact-sized area adjacent or proximate a lower windshield corner56, or to releasably fasten a second VSRI display apparatus10in a compact-sized area such that at least a display apparatus body22is located principally in front of a vehicle-operator facing surface of a lowered a sun-visor60with the VSRI display member12operable in a manner previously described.

FIGS. 3A and 3Brespectively are each a two-dimensional, partial cross-sectional side view depicting a forward portion of a vehicle roof62adjoining an upper side of a vehicle windshield48, wherein a VSRI display apparatus10is releasably fastened unobtrusively within a compact-sized area adjacent or proximate a windshield at a location similar to those of an upper windshield corner52inFIG. 2A, and a lower windshield corner56inFIG. 2B.FIG. 3Bfurther depicts an option to unobtrusively mount or releasably fasten a VSRI display apparatus10such that at least a display apparatus body22thereof is located principally in front of a vehicle-operator facing surface of a lowered a sun-visor60. For example, wherein a releasable fastening means associated with the display apparatus body22comprises one or more clips or clamps of a size sufficient to clip or clamp the apparatus body22to a lower portion of the sun-visor. It is noted that the locations of either or both of the two VSRI display apparatuses10depicted inFIG. 2B(in a left windshield portion) can alternatively be located on the opposite side of windshield48in a right windshield portion) e.g., for example in a manner previously described in reference toFIG. 2A.

In reference to the two-dimensional depictions ofFIGS. 4A through 5B, a VSRI display apparatus10similar to that ofFIGS. 1A and 1Cis depicted, wherein inFIGS. 4A and 4Ba positionable VSRI display member12is selectively, slidably positionable upwardly and downwardly in alignment within a housing passageway34of a lower longer side of a display apparatus body22, and inFIGS. 5A and 5Ba positionable VSRI display member12is selectively slidably positionable upwardly and downwardly within a housing passageway34of an upper longer side of a display apparatus body22. Similar toFIGS. 1A through 1E,FIGS. 4A through 5Bfurther depict an option to locate an elongate slot38within a side of display apparatus body22, (i.e., vehicle-operator facing surface32), such that a display member positioning lever, knob or tab30therein, associated with an interior portion of, or adjacent side of the facing surface32, is slidably operable in the slot (vertically), and is readily accessible to and within reach of a vehicle-operator so as to selectively cause a respective sliding of VSRI display member12by a manual imparting of an upward or downward movement of the knob30(in a manner similar to the lateral moving of a display member positioning lever or tab30associated with a VSRI display member12inFIGS. 1A through 1E. Also similar toFIGS. 1A through 1E,FIGS. 4A through 5Bfurther depict an option to alternatively or additionally manually and selectively impart an upward or a downward positioning of a VSRI display member12by use of an end-grip18(in a manner similar to a previous description).

AccordinglyFIGS. 1A and 1CandFIGS. 4A through 5Brespectively, and the foregoing descriptions pertaining to each, disclose how a positionable VSRI display member12is: (a.) selectively, slidably positionable horizontally in and out of either of the opposite shorter vertical sides of a display apparatus body22, and (b.) selectively, slidably positionable vertically in and out of either opposite longer horizontal sides of a display apparatus body22, by use of a tab-in-slot VSRI positioning and displaying method, and/or an end-grip VSRI positioning and displaying method.

FIGS. 4A and 4Bfurther depict an option to include a somewhat outwardly expanded (or widened) distal end portion of a VSRI display member12, wherein a stepped portion144of display, member12, comprising an angled leading edge and trailing edge, is located proximate a side of interior cavity44adjacent the latch mechanism100. In a latching operation, during a manual positioning of member12, entailing a sliding of the member upwardly from the fully-revealed state ofFIG. 4Ato its fully-concealed state ofFIG. 4B, the angled leading edge of144makes contact with a lower opposite angled edge of detent104which is turn imparts an outward bending or flexing of resilient member102. As stepped portion144clears the pass detent104, such that the trailing angled edge of144comes into contact with an upper opposite angled edge of detent104the bending of resilient member102is returned to a non-bended state (as depicted inFIG. 4B) which in turn retains the VSRI display member in a VSRI non-revealed state. Thus configured, at least one portion of at least one of opposite parallel sides of a VSRI display member, is adapted to align and engage, upon being slide positioned, with an end contour portion of a latch mechanism, to releasably retain the VSRI display member in at least one slide positioned VSRI state (e.g., a VSRI display member revealed or non-revealed state). A similar arrangement is also depicted ifFIGS. 5A and 5B.

During a reverse manual positioning of the VSRI display member12, following a slide positioning downwardly from a VSRI non-revealed state (ofFIG. 4B) to a VSRI revealed state (ofFIG. 4A, the lower angled edge of144contacts an upper opposite angled edge of detent104which is turn imparts an outward bending or flexing of resilient member102. As stepped portion144starts to pass detent104, the upper angled edge of144begins to contact a lower opposite angled edge of detent104and as the member12slides more, the outward bending of resilient member102is returned to a non-bended state (as depicted inFIG. 4A).

Preferably the apparatus body22ofFIGS. 4A and 4B, when not also including a slot38and knob, tab or lever30, comprises two spaced apart stops142located at opposite sides of cavity44(proximate opposite sides of a housing passageway34) each having a contour which prohibits a further downward sliding of corresponding wider or stepped portion144at a distal end of a VSRI display member12, once member12has reached a fully-revealed state. In a variant including a slot38and a knob, tab or lever30slidably operable therein, a lower end portion of the slot serves as a stop, once the knob, tab or lever30(adjoining a portion of the display member) is slid to the lower end of the slot. Thus, in this variant, both the stop142and an outwardly extending stepped portion144, each shown to the right of lower end of the slot38inFIG. 4A, are not required.

It is noted that the resilient member102portion of a latch mechanism100, whether located adjacent a side of a cavity.44(or alternatively incorporated, formed or cut, so as to be adjacent a side portion of a display member12e.g., including a detent portion) may be made of wood(s), plastic(s), metal(s), a composite material, and in lighter-weight embodiments of the VSRI display apparatus10, may be a paperboard or card stock material. For example, a wood resilient member102could consist of an elongate stick, slat or strip of wood secured at one end to a display apparatus body22and be of sufficient length to provide both a flexing or bending as needed and a sufficient engagement of a detent104when aligned within a corresponding indent. In a CNC milling of a display apparatus body22made of wood, plastic or metal portion e.g., adjacent a cavity44, the milling can render an elongate slat or strip of wood such that one end thereof is integrally part of a display apparatus body22while an elongate portion is free to bend, unbend or flex, as needed. Alternatively, a spring or spring mechanism can be associated with an elongate member to provide a necessary bending, unbending or flexing as needed. In another approach, a straight or formed portion of a piano wire or a spring steel can be secured at first end to a portion of a display apparatus body22while having attached to, or shaped at, a second opposite end an object or a shaped contour sufficient to provide an engagement with an indent contour as needed, and so on.

FIG. 4Aalso depicts a larger somewhat centrally located secondary indicia display area42option, whereasFIGS. 5A and 5Bdepict a smaller and taller-than-wide secondary indicia display area42option.

FIGS. 4A through 5Bfurther depict an optional interiorly-located latch and release mechanism100operable to predispose a two-state positioning of a VSRI display member12wherein a first state positioning of display member12(and VSRI thereon) is a fully-concealed state depicted inFIGS. 4B and 5A, and a second positioning of the display member12(and VSRI thereon) is a fully-revealed state depicted inFIGS. 4A and 5B. Wherein, in one example of an interiorly-located latch and release mechanism arrangement (depicted inFIGS. 4A through 5B) an elongate latch resilient member102having on a distal end a contoured inwardly-extending detent104is located proximate a side of an interior cavity44, such that a contoured latch engagement indent106or profile, associated with a portion of an outwardly-facing side of a VSRI display member12(preferably hidden from view) is engaged by the detent when the VSRI display member12is slid to a first, fully-concealed state e.g., as depicted inFIGS. 4B and 5A; and, when the VSRI display member12is slid to a second, fully-revealed state e.g., as depicted inFIG. 5B.

FIGS. 5A and 5Bdepict an option to include a plurality of contoured latch engagement indents106associated with a same outwardly-facing side of a VSRI display member12e.g., such that an upper engagement indent106of display member12is engaged by an inwardly-facing detent104adjoined with a distal end of elongate resilient member102, when member12is manually slid to a first, hilly-concealed state; and, a lower engagement indent106on the same side of display member12is engaged by a detent104of elongate resilient member102when member12is when member12is slid to a second, fully-revealed state. Thereby, the latching mechanism100ofFIG. 5predisposes the VSRI display member12to be retained in a first, fully-concealed state, or a second, fully-revealed state, when the display member12is manually slid to either state, until a manual urging of member12in an opposite direction, is sufficient to overcome a current latched engagement.

FIGS. 6A-6C and 7A-7Fare each a two-dimensional depiction of some of the preferred embodiments of the VSRI display apparatus10each adapted to include an appearance of and/or shape, replicating, representative of or depicting a vehicle, or vehicle type or make, typical of a type commonly incorporating, having or moving (for at least some time-period) one or more objects extending outwardly from at least one side of the vehicle (see alsoFIGS. 8A through 9D). For example,FIGS. 6A-6C and 7A-7Binclude an apparatus body (or housing) having a front side surface area32which is normally vehicle operator-facing, and which further comprises at least a depicted likeness, appearance and/or shape of an actual vehicle or vehicle type operated by or about to be operated by, the vehicle operator. The apparatus body depicted vehicle comprises at least one vehicle side adapted to display VSRI of a display member slidably positioned to a VSRI revealed state, extending outwardly from the side (e.g. as depicted inFIGS. 6C and 7B), wherein, the vehicle side is representative of a same or similar side of the actual vehicle or vehicle type operated by, or about to be operated by, the vehicle operator; and wherein, one or more objects depicted by the display member positioned to the VSRI revealed state are the same or similar to the object(s) extending outwardly from the side of the actual vehicle.FIGS. 6A-6C and 7A-7Falso depict an option to make, form or fabricate such embodiments comprising a foldable sheet or planar material (see other variants of folded sheet or material embodiments depicted inFIGS. 7A-7F, 8A-8D and 9A-9D).

Accordingly, embodiments provided, comprise a depiction and/or shape of a vehicle84on a vehicle-operator facing surface32, e.g., of an actual vehicle or vehicle type in use by, or about to be used by a vehicle operator, and at least one VSRI display member12slidably positionable between VSRI display member revealed and non-revealed states intermediate a front and back side of the apparatus10, and which, when slid to a fully revealed state depicts one or more objects extending outwardly from a particular side of the depicted vehicle (as inFIGS. 6C and 7B). The depicted type of one or more objects and their location adjacent a specific side of a vehicle84indicate a same type of one or more objects extending outwardly preferably from a same side of the actual vehicle operated by the vehicle operator.

Thus vehicle-depicting embodiments of the present invention also provide an enhanced vehicle operation safety awareness, or ‘reminders’ that are viewable at-a-glance and repeatedly visually perceptible to the vehicle operator and which emphasize where objects exterior to a specific vehicle side are located, for enhancing vehicle safety during one or more operations of the vehicle. The VSRI display member12and VSRI thereon, are viewable and/or discernible at-a-glance when slidably positioned to a VSRI revealed state, which also allows for a quick association to be made between the object(s) depicted by the apparatus10, in view of one or more objects or conditions currently nearby and/or about the actual vehicle. For example, a vehicle having at least one bicycle mounted atop a roof upper ‘side’ rack, and having a vehicle operator in control of the vehicle who has selectively positioned a VSRI display member12of VSRI display apparatus10to a VSRI revealed state, such that ‘bicycle’ indicia as inFIG. 6Chas been seen one or more times can, prior to entering a garage or multi-level parking structure where a vertical clearance may be an issue, be made more aware and mindful that caution may be in order due to an upwardly extending actual bicycle, significantly increasing a height clearance needed to safely operate the vehicle.

InFIG. 6Aa planar or sheet material is foldable transversely, for example, foldable along a fold-defining perforation or score line78e.g., along a midway point, and having aligned adjacent a portion of the score line (or transverse fold) a passageway34e.g., an elongate slot located and sufficient in width to readily allow an inward and an outward sliding of a pivotally positionable VSRI display member12(depicted inFIGS. 6A and 6Bhaving a dashed-line). An apparatus rear side112is depicted having an apparatus fastener or fastening means e.g., an adhesive material, or peel-off cover sheet which when removed reveals such, wherein the fastener of fastening means is preferably suitable for positively attaching or releasably fastening the VSRI display apparatus to a vehicle-operator facing surface such as a previously described compact area of a windshield, of a sun-visor or (as depicted inFIG. 20) of a dashboard, instrument or control panel. Following a folding along the score line78, the VSRI display apparatus10has a rectangular shape with a vehicle-operator facing surface.32and a rear side112aligned behind surface32, as depicted inFIGS. 6B and 6C.

During a making of a VSRI display apparatus10comprising a foldable planar material, preferably the material is printed, optionally laminated, and then die-cut, cut, CNC cut, CNC milled, laser cut, or punched to provide one or more: display member positioning slot(s), aperture catch(es), J-hook aperture, secondary-indicia viewing window, pivot lever aperture e.g., providing a pivot lever opening through which a lever lower end adjoining with a pivot-point portion of a display member occurs. A die-cutting or punching process can be employed to provide one or more folds lines, scores and/or perforations. Following one or more of such process steps, a VSRI display apparatus10can be assembled, e.g., wherein in reference toFIG. 6Athe VSRI display apparatus10is folded along a folding perforation or score line78, a lower end of a pivot lever96is inserted through a pivot lever aperture of surface32and coupled to a corner pivot point of a VSRI display member12which in turn has indicia14thereon, such as a bicycle mounted on a roof rack40, and may also include a staple108(or other ridged or upwardly extending rounded member). Interior sides of the two halves of the apparatus are then brought together and adjoined or releasably fastened e.g., by an adhesive material, or by fasteners such as two spaced apart staples98, the material or staples placed so as to not impede a 90° pivoting of the display member. Alternatively, sides of the apparatus can be brought together and adjoined or releasably attached by interfacing, releasably fastenable snaps, one or more tabs of a first side inserted into or engaged with a respective one or more slots of a second side, hook-and-loop material, magnets, and the like.

More specifically, a foldable body of a VSRI display and a VSRI display member operable to be slidably positionable between VSRI non-revealed and revealed states between the folded sides of the body, can comprise a foldable planar or sheet material, or plastic laminated foldable planar or sheet material, wherein the material on at least one side, includes a plurality of the following, (but is not limited thereto): (i.) printed VSRI subject matter of a VSRI display member, (ii.) printed secondary VSRI subject matter of a normally vehicle operator facing portion of at least the VSRI display apparatus body, (hi) a crease or ridge indented into the material along which the material is folded (or along which a fold is to occur), (iv.) at least one normally vehicle operator facing blank portion within which a dry erase marker hand written erasable note can be entered, (v.) a printed depiction or representation of a vehicle, including at least one side of the depicted vehicle adjacent which a VSRI display member depicted one or more objects are slidably positionable between VSRI non-revealed and revealed states; wherein the the body of a VSRI display apparatus, the at least one VSRI display member and one or more more apertures or cuts of at least the body are die-cut, or made by a CNC laser.

FIGS. 6B and 6Cfurther depict an option to include a retail-display J-hook aperture198e.g., that can be employed when a VSRI display member12is predisposed to be retained in a fully concealed state (as inFIG. 6B).

A planar foldable material of a VSRI display apparatus10can comprise any one or more of a variety of materials, such as, card stock, paperboard or cardboard, preferably well suited for one or more of: printing of silk-screening in black-and-white, grayscale, and/or color, laminating, embossing, contouring, shaping, stamping, die-cutting, cutting, laser-cutting, CNC milling, stapling, gluing, hot-gluing, and the like. Other foldable planar materials can include a thin sheet or layer of material, for example a plastic, a metal, a composite or carbon fiber material, leather, or a cloth or textile material (e.g., sufficiently supported by a covering, treatment or backing to thereby be self-supporting).

The foldable embodiment ofFIGS. 6A through 6Cincludes a depicted likeness of a vehicle84, preferably of a type in which the apparatus10is intended to be mounted or releasably fastened. InFIGS. 6A and 6Ba slidably positionable VSRI display member12(depicted in a dashed-line) is pivotally controllable by a pivot adjustment lever96associated with the display member, such that an imparting of a manual pivot input to the lever, made by one or more digits of a user's hand selectively and slidably positions the display member12between a concealed state depicted inFIGS. 6A and 6B, and a revealed state depicted inFIG. 6C(over a pivot range126). While being selectively positioned pivotally between fully revealed states and fully concealed states, VSRI display member12passes through a housing (or body) passageway34. It is noted that instead of employing a pivot adjustment lever96for selectively imparting a pivot positioning or partial rotation of a VSRI display member12, the member can be pivotally fastened at a corner pivot point to an apparatus surface and an arced slot (not shown) formed into surface32relative to the pivot point, such that a knob associated with the display member and operable to slide within the slot (in similar manner previously described) can alternatively be selectively employed to pivotally position the display member between a concealed state depicted inFIGS. 6A and 6B, and a revealed state depicted inFIG. 6C(over a full pivot range126).

To predispose a retaining of display member12when pivoted or partially-rotated to a fully-concealed state or a fully-revealed state, one or more aperture catches or latches68each sized interiorly to receive and surround a small elongate member having a ridged profile (e.g., an upper portion of a fastened staple108) are employable. For example, inFIGS. 6B and 6Ca horizontal aperture catch68is formed in an upper right portion of surface32, and a vertical aperture catch68is formed in a lower, left of center portion of surface32. In operation, a pivot adjustment lever96associated with the display member12(so as to impart rotation thereto) is manually positioned over a lever pivot range120(e.g., 90°). Beginning (inFIG. 6B) with a lever position of about 9 o'clock and with a vertical staple fastened through a corner of display member12and a vertical aperture catch68surrounding the staple, a manual urging of a counter clockwise pivot imparted to the lever causes a retention of the vertical staple108within the vertical aperture catch68to be released and as the counter clockwise pivot range approaches 90° (with the lever position at about 6 o'clock) the staple, then nearly horizontal, is urged into alignment with the horizontal aperture catch68(inFIG. 6C) and is retained therein until a fully reversed positioning of the lever96occurs.

FIG. 6Bdepicts an option to additionally or alternatively include a VSRI display member12having an outwardly extended positioning tab110(or tab grip) which is accessible adjacent a side of an VSRI display apparatus10to a vehicle-operator when the apparatus is installed for use (shown adjacent an upper of apparatus10). Optionally the tab110can include a surface portion having a rim and/or ridged portion which facilitates imparting a manual moving or pivoting of display member12over a range126. For example, the tab can include a tab aperture198which, as depicted inFIG. 6Bcan be employed as a J-hook aperture e.g., during a displaying of the apparatus as a product.

Thus, embodiments of the present invention configured for a user imparting a straight or arced positioning to a VSRI display member12also having an adjacent positioning tab110can be simplified. For example, VSRI display apparatus10embodiments (installed for use in a vehicle) having a linearly positionable VSRI display member12(positionable over a straight path) and a side adjacent positioning tab110accessible to a user when the display member12of the apparatus is fully positioned to a concealed state, eliminate the need for an elongate slot and display member tab slidably operable therein. For example, the linearly positionable display member12depicted inFIGS. 7A and 7Bcan alternatively (or additionally) be configured having a positioning tab110extending outwardly adjacent a right side of the member, accessible for an imparting of a linear positioning by a vehicle-operator thereto. VSRI display apparatus10embodiments (installed for use in a vehicle) having a pivotally positionable VSRI display member12(positionable over an arced path) and a side adjacent positioning tab110accessible to a user when the display member12of the apparatus is fully positioned to a concealed state, eliminate a need for a pivot lever96(and lever aperture), and instead allow a simpler pivotally fastened display member12e.g., fastened at a pivot-point near a corner of the member to an interior side of the apparatus, for example by a simple, single rivet (fastener).

In reference toFIGS. 7A through 7F,FIG. 7Adepicts a vehicle84, preferably of a type in which the apparatus10is installed for use (or a likeness thereof), wherein the VSRI display apparatus10is made having a shape of the vehicle e.g., cut, die-cut, stamped, laser cut, or CNC milled in a manner rendering the vehicle shape. FIGS. It is noted that the depicting of a vehicle shape is not limited to only the foldable preferred embodiments. For example, such vehicle are also employable in the preferred embodiments ofFIGS. 1A-1E, 4A-5B, 10C and 11Ceach having a thicker apparatus body22.FIGS. 7A and 7Bdepict an option to also include on a VSRI display member12readable safety-related indicia122(e.g., alphanumeric text) which is selectively positionable into alignment with a secondary-indicia viewing window124when the member is positioned from a concealed state (depicted inFIG. 7A) to a revealed state (depicted inFIG. 7B). VSRI display member12can be configured positionable by a tab-in-slot arrangement e.g., a tab114in an elongate slot118and/or by the aforementioned extended tab110arrangement e.g., as described in reference toFIG. 6B. In the case of a tab-in-slot arrangement,FIGS. 7C and 7Ddepict an option to include a single layer tab114slidably operable in an elongate slot118as depicted inFIG. 7Aand the cross-sectional side view ofFIG. 7D; and,FIGS. 7E and 7Fdepict an option to include a folded or layered tab116slidably operable in an elongate slot118, wherein a tab116is foldable at perforation or score lines78, e.g., in a manner depicted in the cross-sectional side view ofFIG. 7F, for a selective slidable positioning of a respective VSRI display member12in slot118.

During a making (or assembly) of the VSRI display apparatus10depicted inFIG. 7A, either tab (114or116) of the VSRI display members12is inserted into slot118, the VSRI display apparatus10ofFIG. 7Ais folded along the perforation or score line78and interior sides of the apparatus are brought together and fastened in a manner previously described so as to appear as the shaped vehicle depicted inFIG. 7B.

Thereafter, when the apparatus10is installed for use in a vehicle, e.g., mounted or releasably fastened by a suitable fastening means58in a manner previously described, within reach of an operator of the vehicle (e.g., a vehicle having a likeness of the shaped vehicle), the operator can selectively impart to a single layer tab114or a layered tab116of a VSRI display member12a manual positioning by hand or one or more digits thereof, such that the display member12is positioned to either a concealed state (depicted inFIG. 7A) or a revealed state (depicted inFIG. 7B), wherein in the latter case, preferably a readable safety-related indicia122is concurrently positioned into alignment with a readable-indicia viewing window124.

Preferably (or optionally) the vehicle-operator facing surface32of the vehicle-depicted VSRI display apparatus10ofFIGS. 7A and 7Bincludes a displayed secondary indicia display area42e.g., comprising associative indicia, subject matter or content pertaining to a business entity providing one or more products and/or services relating to the one or more objects displayable on a fully revealed VSRI display member12. Alternatively, such associative indicia, subject matter or content can be made displayable in a readable indicia viewing window124, by a linear positioning, of a display member12e.g., when positioned to a fully revealed state.

In reference toFIGS. 8A-8D and 9A-9Deach is a two-dimensional depiction of another of the VSRI display apparatus10preferred embodiments of the present invention, and comprises: a depiction or likeness of a vehicle84; an option to include a plurality of slidably positionable members preferably layered one in front of another (80and82respectively), each having a lower end, which when fully-revealed, represents a plurality of objects extending outwardly from a side of the depicted vehicle84(e.g.,80having a pair of aircraft flaps74, and82differently having an aircraft landing gear arrangement76); and, preferably including a plurality of object-status indicia viewing windows (90and92respectively) in which each selectively indicates a first indicated status indicia of the objects and alternatively a second indicated status indicia of the objects.FIGS. 8A and 8Cdepict interior features of the embodiment, andFIGS. 8B and 8Ddepict exterior features of a vehicle-operator facing surface32of the embodiment.

It is noted that certain reference numerals inFIGS. 8A through 8Dsuch as74and76do not appear in all of the figures e.g., when their respective positionable display members are slid to a fully-concealed state, and/or when a reducing of reference numerals in a figure facilitates a clearer depicting of an apparatus10and/or body22exterior surface.

The VSRI display apparatus10, and display apparatus body22thereof, in each of the8A-8D and9A-9D embodiments can be made of a foldable material and mounted or releasably fastened in a vehicle in a manner previously described (or similar thereto), or in a manner more akin to the embodiments previously described in any ofFIGS. 1A-1E and 4A through 5B, and/or as described hereinafter in any ofFIGS. 10C, 11C, 14A through 15, 16A through 19.

Returning toFIGS. 8A-8D,FIG. 8Ais depicted preferably having an interior cavity44(shown in a dashed-line including parallel, opposite vertical sides) and in which, parallel opposite outer sides of each of a first positionable member80(shown in a dashed-and-dotted line) and a separate second positionable member82(shown in a dotted-line) are aligned slidably intermediate the parallel opposite sides of the cavity. Alternatively, manually positionable members80and82can each have entirely a distinct cavity or in part a shared cavity. In embodiments not having an interior cavity, such as those previously described having a display apparatus body22comprising a foldable material, one or more vertically orientated staples can be employed adjacent each of the opposite sides of the two positionable members (80and82), to align and channel the members3G when separately slidably positioned to a vertical axis of movement, wherein the same staples also serve as fastening means securing a front and rear portion of body22together (not shown).

FIGS. 8A-8Dfurther depict an option to employ an inclined plane, for example of a positionable member angled slot70, in a translating of manual horizontal positioning adjustments inputted via an adjustment knob72slidably operable in a horizontal slot38, into corresponding vertical adjustments of a respective positionable member (80or82). For example, in a lowering of the flaps74of the depicted-aircraft (84), a first portion of an adjustment knob72extending inwardly (from the back of the knob, relative to the surface32of apparatus body22) intermediate opposite sides of the perimeter-wall of horizontal slot38, is constrained along a horizontal path by slot38as the knob is positioned laterally. More specifically, when the knob72is selectively positioned to the right, a second portion of the knob72extending further inwardly, intermediate opposite side portions of the perimeter-wall of angled slot70(and portions of positionable member80proximate thereto), the second portion interacts with a ‘lower inclined plane’ of angled slot70, which in turn, causes a lowering of positionable member80and the flaps74at its lower end. Conversely, when the adjustment knob72is selectively positioned to the left (during a raising of member80), the second portion of the knob extending further inwardly, again, intermediate opposite side portions of the perimeter-wall of angled slot70interacts with an ‘upper inclined plane’ of slot70, which in turn, causes a raising of positionable member80and the flaps74at its lower end.

Preferably a relatively short shaft extending below an adjustment knob72comprises a plurality of small diameter (<0.5″) flanges (preferably circular), or planar members configurable closely parallel to one another, such as: (a.) vertically aligned horizontal circular plates, or (b.) reduced-circumference shaft channels into each of which a substantially encircling collar, disk-shaped keeper, split washer or the like, can be secured, or the like. Wherein, a distal shaft portion intermediate a first pair of planar members is slidably operable in an angled slot70of a respective positionable member (80or82) such that facing surfaces of the planar members are in close contact with upper and lower surfaces of the positionable member, thus keeping the knob shaft more perpendicular when being positioned laterally and enhancing a retention of a shaft portion within a respective slot. Optionally or additionally, a similar arrangement can occur for a next shaft portion between a second pair of facing surfaces, wherein the shaft portion is nearest the knob and slidably operable in a horizontal slot38. Another approach can include vertically alignable snap together elements (or configured for gluing or sonic welding), somewhat T-Nut or golf ball marker like, with vertical post diameters sized to a slot and disk portions akin to, or somewhat smaller than, a thumbtack diameter, preferably wherein an upper most element positively receives a Knob lower shaft. An example or approximation of a circular or disk-shaped member, or circular flange, is depicted in a dashed line inFIGS. 8A and 8C.

In operation, a selective positioning of a knob72, from a left-most position to a right-most position (the latter depicted inFIGS. 8B and 8D) in turn, positions the flaps74of a first positionable member80downwardly, from a fully-concealed state (depicted inFIGS. 8A and 8C) to a fully-revealed state (depicted inFIGS. 8B and 8D). Wherein, the flaps74slidably pass in and out of a respective flap passageway64. Similarly, a selective positioning of a knob72, from a left-most position to a right-most position, in turn, positions the landing gear76of a second positionable member82downwardly, from a fully-concealed state (depicted inFIGS. 8A and 8B) to a fully-revealed state (depicted inFIGS. 8C and 8D). Wherein, the landing gear76slidably pass in and out of a respective passageway66. Thus, when both knobs72are positioned to a left-most position, no objects associated with the vehicle (the depicted aircraft84) are shown extending outward from a side thereof. Conversely, when both knobs72are positioned to a right-most position, both object types associated with the depicted vehicle (84) are shown extending outwardly from a side thereof. When either object type is shown extending outwardly it serves as a readily discernible and repeatedly visually perceptible at-a-glance reminder providing an enhanced vehicle operation safety awareness during one or more operations of the vehicle.

Adding to an enhanced safety awareness is an interactivity of such VSRI display apparatus10embodiments

FIGS. 8A through 8Dfurther depict an option to include additional and associative vehicle operation safety related discernible-shape indicia which are revealed concurrently to thereby reinforce a comprehending of a given status and status changes. For example, inFIG. 8Aa first status indicator window90and preferably a second status indicator window92each respectively display an alphanumeric first indicated indicia86and a second indicated indicia88indicia indicating respectively, when flaps74or landing gear66are up or down, text that reads respectively “raised” or “lowered”. Preferably adding to an enhanced safety awareness attributable to the meaning of either word visually seen and read, is an interactive or kinesthetic process wherein the user can read associative-indicia within a personalized phrase indicating a “Flaps” status or as there is a “Flaps” status change wherein either or both result from a user input. For example, inFIG. 8A, the indicator window90displays the personalized phrase “I ‘Raised’ The Flaps” wherein the second word of the phrase is changed as a result of user physical or tactile input and occurs concurrent with a visual reinforcing representation of the Flaps47having just been ‘raised’. InFIG. 8B, the personalized phrase “I ‘Lowered’ The Flaps” is depicted, wherein the second word of the phrase was changed as a result of a user physical or tactile input, concurrent with a visual representation of the flaps74having just been ‘lowered’. Similarly, a second status indicator window92provides a same interactive or kinesthetic process for changes in status pertaining the landing gear76.

FIGS. 8B and 8Dfurther depict another type of vehicle safety related associative indicia preferably occurring concurrently with those just described, wherein a depicted horizontal “FLAPS” related slot38and a “GEAR” related slot38optionally (or additionally) each include “UP” and “DOWN” status indicators corresponding to a lateral (left-most or right-most) position to which a user has moved a respective knob72. Thus, as a user is manually (kinesthetically) sliding a knob72of a “FLAPS” slot36from a left-most position to right-most position, he or she (a.) sees the flaps being lowered, (b.) sees the alphanumeric indicia change from ‘Raised’ to ‘Lowered’. (c.) sees the personalized phrase change to “I ‘Lowered’ The Flaps” and (d.) sees the right-most positioning of the adjustment knob72directly under the word “DOWN” as in “FLAPS: . . . DOWN”. Conversely, the process works in reverse i.e., as a user is manually (kinesthetically) sliding a knob72of a “FLAPS” slot36from a right-most to a left-most position. The similar sequence of associative-indicia revealing steps occur when applied to an adjustment know72of a “GEAR” slot38.

FIGS. 8B, 8DandFIGS. 9A through 9Dfurther depict the option to include a secondary indicia display area42(shown in dashed line) for example, indicia pertaining to a business entity providing products or services relating to the depicted vehicle type84.

In reference toFIGS. 9A through 9Ddepict a similar sequence of four drawing figures wherein, inFIG. 9Ano objects are shown extending outwardly from a side of the depicted-vehicle84, inFIG. 9Bonly flaps74are lowered, inFIG. 9Conly landing gear76are lowered, and inFIG. 9Dboth the flaps.74and landing gear76are lowered.FIGS. 9A through 9Dfurther depict vertical slots38wherein an adjustment knob72selectively slid fully-upward indicates that a respective slidably positionable VSRI display member12, associated with and responsive to a positioning of the knob, is also fully-up and vice versa. Preferably, a vertical positioning of a display member12indicates in a respective status indicator window90or92an indicated alphanumeric indicia e.g., “Raised” or “Lowered” in a manner previously described.

It is noted with respect to the preferred embodiments depicted inFIGS. 8A through 9Dthat any one or more of the aforementioned latching mechanisms or means, and/or stops or stepped contours can be adapted to limit a slidable positioning range and/or predispose a retaining of a display member12at one or more predetermined heights. Thus, flaps74for example, could be set in accordance with different predetermined degrees or increments of settings and concurrently indicated in a respective status indicator window90or92as such.

WhileFIGS. 8A through 9Deach depict a VSRI display apparatus10having a plurality of selectively slidable display members each indicative of, representing or depicting a different type of object extendable outwardly from a side of a vehicle, it is noted that such members can additionally or alternatively comprise display VSRI content14, and can be adapted to one or more other ones of the preferred embodiments, including wherein, a first member is configured selectively slidably positionable between concealed and revealed states with respect to a first vehicle side, and at least a second member is configured selectively slidably positionable between concealed and revealed states with respect to at least one other vehicle side (of a same apparatus10depicted vehicle).

In reference toFIGS. 10A through 11C,FIGS. 10A and 10BandFIGS. 11A and 11Aare each a cross-sectional two-dimensional depiction of a VSRI display apparatus10, depicting an option to mount or releasably fasten either at least one rearward-facing portion of an interior apparatus member46, or one or more rearward-facing portions of an exterior or outer apparatus member94, in a stationary manner, to a vehicle windshield, dashboard or control panel (i.e., a vehicle interior mounting-surface132thereof), such that an adjacent non-mounted one of the two apparatus members is available to be selectively positioned in a slidable manner manually by a vehicle operator.FIGS. 10C and 11Crespectively are each a three-dimensional depiction of an under-side ofFIGS. 10A-10BandFIGS. 11A-11B.

Each ofFIGS. 10C and 11Cdepicts a rear-side112of a VSRI display member46and a rear-side112of an exterior or outer apparatus housing member94(or body) on either of which a suitable fastening means58can be employed or applied to mount or releasably attach either member, in a stationary manner, to an appropriate vehicle surface portion at least generally vehicle-operator facing, for example, using a material having peel-off portion which removed reveals an adhesive material, or in a releasably fastened manner described elsewhere in the present specification. InFIGS. 10A through 10Ceach of opposite outer sides of a VSRI display member46comprises an elongate tongue128(or rib) which is slidably operable within a respective elongate groove130(or channel) of an apparatus housing94, e.g., wherein the elongate tongue or rib and groove or channel are each comprised of 90° or square cut corners. InFIGS. 11A through 11Ceach of opposite outer sides of a VSRI display member46comprises an elongate tongue128or rib slidably operable within a respective elongate groove130(or channel) of an exterior apparatus housing94, wherein the tongue and groove are each comprised of mitered or angled cut corners.

More particularly, in each ofFIGS. 10AandFIG. 11Aa VSRI display member46has a displayable vehicle-operator facing surface32and vehicle safety-related indicia (VSRI)14thereon, and on an opposite rearward-facing surface portion a fastening means58suitable for mounting, or releasably, attaching the VSRI display member46to vehicle mounting-surface132. Thus configured, an adjacent exterior or outer apparatus member94is manually positionable in a slidable manner in relation to a stationary VSRI display member46such that, when member94selectively positioned by a vehicle-operator to a fully-opened state, the vehicle safety-related indicia (VSRI)14on the vehicle-operator facing surface32is fully revealed.

In each ofFIGS. 10BandFIG. 11Ba converse arrangement is depicted, wherein one or more rear-surface portions of an exterior or outer apparatus member94is adapted to be mounted to or releasably fastenable to a vehicle windshield, dashboard or control panel in a stationary manner. Thus configured, an adjacent VSRI display member46or grip-end18thereof is manually positionable in a slidable manner in relation to the stationary exterior or outer apparatus member94such that, when selectively positioned by a vehicle-operator to a fully-opened state, the vehicle safety-related indicia (VSRI)14on the vehicle-operator facing surface32of member46is fully revealed.

Thus the10A-10C and11A-11C embodiments provide a pair of spaced apart walls of a cavity44opposing and parallel one another each having a channel or groove; and a pair of opposing and parallel sides of the VSRI display member each having a tongue or rib and cross-section thereof complementary to a respective channel or groove of the cavity walls. Thus configured, a normally vehicle surface-facing portion of a back side of the VSRI display apparatus, or a back side of the VSRI display member, is adapted to be releasably attached at, adjacent or proximate the vehicle surface located at least generally vehicle operator-facing, such that a back side and associated one of a VSRI display apparatus, or a VSRI display member, attached at, adjacent or proximate the vehicle surface, are stationary, and a back side and associated one of a VSRI display apparatus, or a VSRI display member, not attached at, adjacent or proximate the vehicle surface, are slidably positionable.

In reference toFIGS. 12A-12Ceach is a two-dimensional depiction of a VSRI display apparatus positionable member12, wherein a normally front, vehicle-operator facing surface32of the member (e.g., when fully-revealed) comprises a receptacle, pocket or envelope136(hereinafter referred to as ‘receptacle’) having an upper opening suitable for receiving each of one or more insertable and removable cards, sheets or tiles e.g., as depicted inFIGS. 13A and 13B(hereinafter referred to as ‘insertable VSRI’). Each insertable VSRI includes on at least one of its planar sides, a different type VSRI14indicating, representing, depicting, or associated with one or more objects (in a manner and/or of a type previously described) which, when selectively inserted into the receptacle136is viewable through a transparent or translucent vehicle-operator facing surface of the receptacle. To facilitate an inserting or removal of one or more insertable VSRI respectively into or out of a receptacle136a vehicle-operator facing side of the receptacle can include a cut-away contour140(e.g., as depicted inFIG. 12A).

A receptacle136can comprise a flexible and/or stretchable material, a rigid or resilient material, or can be integrally formed within or adjacent a display apparatus positionable member12. The receptacle can be sized interiorly to accommodate one insertable VSRI at a time (e.g., displaying VSRI of a given side thereof), or sized to accommodate a plurality of insertable VSRI selectively inserted into the receptacle136in any order of a vehicle-operator's choosing. The interior of a receptacle136can comprise a single cavity (of one capacity or another) e.g., as depicted in the distal end view ofFIG. 12C, or include a plurality of opposing inward-facing slots or channels, into each aligned pair of which a single insertable VSRI can selectively be inserted as depicted the top view ofFIG. 12B.

In reference to the two-dimensional figures of13A and13B,FIG. 13Aeach depicts an option to include a plurality, series or array of insertable VSRI14rendered onto single contiguous sheet of foldable material, wherein each VSRI14is representative of, or depicts one or more objects of a type preferably commonly extending outwardly from a side of a vehicle. The foldable sheet material can be selectively folded by a vehicle-operator (for example as depictedFIG. 12C) such that any one of the VSRI14(138a,138b,138c,138d, and so forth) is displayed adjacent the transparent or translucent side of the receptacle136. Such foldable sheets can be sold as a complementary accessory in a retail type of commerce, and/or be made downloadable from website having retail products. As can the separate insertable VSRI14(138e,138f,138g,138h, and so forth) depicted inFIG. 13B.

The two-dimensional view of13B depicts an option to provide one or more, or a plurality, of separately insertable VSRI14rendered onto one or both sides individual cards, sheets or tiles. In which case, any one or more of separately insertable VSRI14(138e,138f,138g,138h, and so forth) can selectively be inserted into a receptacle136to thereby represent an actual one or more objects currently, or about to be, extending outwardly from a vehicle in which a VSRI display apparatus10is installed.

Alternatively, or additionally, one or more VSRI cards, sheets or tiles, can comprise on one or both planar sides (or attachable thereto, or revealable thereon), one or more of, an adhesive material, or material have an adhering property, interfacing releasably fastenable snaps, hook-and-loop material, magnets, and the like, in which case, any of such can be employed to mount, or releasably fastened to a normally front, vehicle-operator facing surface of a VSRI display member12, a VSRI card, sheet or tile which is then selectively revealable when slidably positioned to a fully-revealed state, by a vehicle-operator.

In reference to the two-dimensional depictions ofFIGS. 14Athough15, each of the figures depicts a VSRI display apparatus10comprising a foldable material, and is similar to the preferred foldable-material embodiments ofFIGS. 6A through 9D.FIGS. 14A and 14Bare each a two-dimensional depiction of a VSRI display apparatus10, whereinFIG. 14Ais yet to be folded along fold-defining perforation or score line78, andFIG. 14B(folded along78) has a positionable VSRI display member12located slidably operable intermediate the two sides of the folded material. Display member12, is operable to be selectively positioned, such that VSRI14thereon appears within an indicia content display window190.FIG. 14Afurther depicts an option to include a displaying of a business card (and/or company logo) e.g., of a business entity engaged in sales and/or services of the one or more VSRI objects displayed by the VSRI display apparatus10. TheFIG. 14A-14Bapparatus optionally or preferably has a widened tab116associated with, coupled to and/or extending outwardly from a lower side of a VSRI display member12, which is insertable into and slidably operable within an elongate slot118by a vehicle-operator to selectively position the display member12between concealed and revealed states.FIG. 14Adepicts an option to incorporate a displaying of a business card and/or company logo e.g., normally showing in display window190when the positionable member12is selectively slid to a concealed state. and which is covered by member12when the display member is selectively slid by a user to a revealed state (e.g. as depicted inFIG. 14B). It is noted that the depicted display window190can alternatively be a sleeve or envelope sized to retain a business card, having an opening along one side to receive an inserted card, and a window or transparent portion through which the contents of the card are made viewable.

12FIGS. 14A and 14Bfurther depict options to fold a full-width rear-side122, or a half-width or lesser-width portion thereof, into layered folded portions of a VSRI display apparatus, wherein an employing of folded over full-width rear-side112option is used in rendering a VSRI display apparatus10as depicted inFIG. 14B. In an assembling of the VSRI display apparatus10and its VSRI display member as depicted inFIG. 14B, the rear-side112ofFIG. 14Ais folded along the fold-defining perforation or score line78e.g., such that rear-side112is aligned behind a vehicle-operator facing surface32of the apparatus (as depicted inFIG. 14B).

Alternatively, a half-width or lesser-width option employs material to the left of dashed-and-dotted cut line194such that the initial planar material (prior to folding) is ‘L-shaped’, wherein only the upper portion of the ‘L’ left of cut-line194is folded over. For example, in one mode, the upper ‘L’ portion is folded forward and over a left side portion of the full-width lower portion, thereby forming a left-side kind of ‘pocket’ e.g., giving a VSRI display apparatus10and kind of ‘pocket-protector’ like appearance (albeit horizontal in orientation). In such a case, the folded over (upper ‘L’) portion is preferably configured having an elongate horizontal slot and a VSRI display member12having at a lower end reduced-width adjustment tab slidably operable in the slot when the upper ‘L’ slot-equipped portion is folded over and fastened to the lower wider portion in a manner previously described. Preferably, the right-side portion of the lower full-width portion (to the right of the ‘pocket’ portion) includes an area within which a business card and/or company logo184can be incorporated, mounted or releasably fastened for display (as previously described) eliminating the need for cut-out indicia display window190. Thereafter, in operation, the VSRI display member12is operable to be selectively slid by a manual control of vehicle-operator between a VSRI14fully revealed state, and a fully concealed state (e.g., in the latter case preferably, revealing the incorporated business card184or logo).

FIG. 15is a two-dimensional depiction of another of the preferred embodiments of the present invention comprising, initially (prior to being folded), a planar taller-than-wide foldable material (not shown), wherein a folded over upper portion of the material, is aligned behind a vehicle-operator facing, surface32to form a reduced-width VSRI display apparatus10as depicted inFIG. 15.FIG. 15. further depicts an option to incorporate an enlarged-width elongated slot182wherein the width is sufficient to allow a positive contacting of an end of digit, over a ‘finger-tip’ movement range indicated by the double arrow headed line192.

In operation, a fully revealed VSRI14of a VSRI display member12(depicted inFIG. 15) is selectively positionable by a vehicle-operator to a fully concealed state, by placing an end of a digit e.g., an end of an index finger in the right side of the enlarge slot, onto a lower left portion of member12e.g., optionally comprising a finger-tip indicator188(depicted in a dashed-line) and then, while applying some contact pressure, also imparting a lateral positioning of member12, until the member is fully concealed. Optionally, a lower-left portion of the VSRI display member12can include one or more of: an aperture, a texturing, a raised ridge or rim, or the like, to facilitate positive lateral positionings of the member12.

FIG. 15also depicts an option to include a sleeve on a display member12surface for receiving and retaining one or more insertable VSRI14, optionally including an upper cut-away portion140to facilitate an inserting and/or removal of insertable VSRI (as previously described).

FIG. 15further depicts an option to eliminate the need for an enlarged slot186by instead extend downwardly adjacent a lower-left portion of a display member12, an adjustment tab114e.g., slidably operable between a horizontal staple98/stop on the right and a vertical staple98on the left. To predispose in either variant (slotted or tabbed) some added retention of a VSRI display member12at a fully-revealed state, or at a fully-concealed state, a staple fastened to an upper left portion of the member12is alignable during a selective lateral positioning into and out of engagement with an aperture catch or latch68e.g., in an upper right corner of the vehicle-operator facing surface32of the apparatus10and optionally also near an upper left corner.

Preferably eachFIGS. 14A-14BandFIG. 15VSRI display apparatus10includes a secondary indicia display area (dotted-line)42on a vehicle-operator facing surface32(e.g., in a manner previously described).

It is noted that indicia displayable on a vehicle-operator facing surface32of a VSRI display apparatus10or on a VSRI display member12can include 3D and or holographic content or subject matter.

In reference toFIGS. 16A-16B, 17A-17B and 19, each is a two-dimensional, somewhat diagrammatical depiction of a VSRI display apparatus10(or rear-side thereof) and an interior thereof, wherein each of the embodiments comprise a push-button release mechanism operable to automatically actuate a compressed-element release (as inFIGS. 16A-16B), or a tensioned-element release (as inFIGS. 17A-17B), wherein each release, configured to occur upon a pressing of button150, is sufficient to laterally position a respective VSRI display member12(with VSRI14thereon) to a VSRI revealed state. A push-button release of a VSRI display member12inFIG. 19allows a manual slide positioning of the member to a VSRI revealed state.

By way of example, in operation, a downward pressing (or pushing) of the button150can (in the present example) be translated at a lever pivot point152into an upward movement of latch element154, which in turn is disengaged from the stepped portion144, thereby releasing the display member12allowing an immediate expansion of the spring156as depicted (diagrammatically) inFIG. 16B, wherein the display member12is then retained at a fully-revealed state, preferably by some remaining spring pressure being applied to a distal end of the display member, which preferably urges each stepped portion144against a respective stop142. A latch/release lever opened state160resulting from a downward pushing of button150, is depicted in a dashed line inFIG. 16B. Optionally a small spring166can be employed to return the button to non-pressed position and enhance a latching of a fully concealed VSRI display member12. To return the positionable display member12to a fully concealed state a vehicle-operator merely slides the member laterally to the left (e.g., somewhat firmly) and the latch element154once again instantly, re-engages the stepped portion144.

With respect toFIGS. 17A and 17B, the aforementioned tensioned-element is comprised of an elastic material wherein a first portion thereof is associated (e.g. coupled) with at least one apparatus body portion22and at least one other portion thereof is associated (e.g., coupled) with a positionable VSRI display member12, such that the elastic material is sufficiently stretched (tensioned) when a vehicle-operator manually slides the member12laterally to the left (e.g., somewhat firmly) until the latch element154once again engages the stepped portion144of the display member12in a fully-concealed state. For example, a lesser-stretched elastic loop158ais depicted fitted about a plurality of short posts164(or fasteners), wherein two posts are depicted on an apparatus body22and one post proximate a distal portion of a display member12(as depicted inFIG. 17B). such that an urging of member12to a fully-concealed state results in the loop being stretched or tensioned from the size of the lesser-stretched elastic loop158aofFIG. 17Bto the size of a greater-stretched elastic loop158b(as depicted inFIG. 17A), sufficiently stretched or tensioned to return the display12to a fully-revealed state upon a pressing of button150.

Alternatively, a tensioned-element can comprise an elastic band or strap material stretchable between a lesser-stretched state and a greater-stretched state. For example, a lesser-stretched strap158cdepicted in top-views ofFIGS. 17B and 17Cand depicted in a side-view ofFIG. 17Dsomewhat “J” shaped, partially changing directions about a roller200. In the side-view ofFIG. 17Ethe display member12is depicted slid to a fully closed position, having caused the strap to be stretched from a lesser-stretched strap158cto a greater-stretched strap158d.

Alternatively, a first strap or band lower portion depicted inFIGS. 17D and 17Ecan, instead of being an elastic material, comprise a spring (e.g. a coiled spring, not shown) attached on one end to a location on body22(similar to the attachment location for the strap158cinFIG. 17B) and on its opposite end be attached to a shorter remainder portion of the strap, or other flexible member, such as a band, cord, wire, or the like, reversing direction about the roller200. Thus configured, the spring will stretch and contract as a tensioned element in a very similar manner to that of the tensioning, and the released tensioning of the elastic member previously described.

Returning to the side-views ofFIGS. 17D and 17E, each further depicts a partial side portion of a display member12(having the stepped portions144), to an underside portion of which, a higher end of the strap (extending outwardly from the top of roller200) is fastened. Thus configured, as the VSRI display member12is selectively being manually urged laterally toward a fully-concealed state, the stretched length of the lesser-stretched strap158c(e.g., as inFIG. 17D) is concurrently being increased (further tensioned or stretched) until a stepped portion144of member12is again engaged or latched, at which point the greater-stretched strap158doptimal length is reached (e.g., as inFIG. 17E), and maintained until a next push-button release occurs.

Preferably the loop and strap are each comprised of a durable elastic material (or material comprising elastic properties) wherein the material is of a type having a good or excellent stretch repeatability. For example, the loop or band material may consist of, or consist essentially of, or comprise, a polyurethane material, for example, being of a type which, following a pre-stretching procedure for optimizing stretch repeatability (prior to being incorporated into a VSRI display apparatus10), is then employable in the apparatus as a tensioned-element for dozens to hundreds of use-cycles, wherein the elastic performance during each one of cycles is essentially the same.

In reference to another one of the preferred embodiments of the present invention illustrated inFIG. 18, a two-dimensional, somewhat diagrammatical representation of a rear-side of a VSRI display apparatus10is depicted, comprising, integrally formed therein, affixed or releasably fastened thereto, a solar panel16S communicably coupled to a circuit, so as to cause a solar light charging of one or more rechargeable batteries172, such that, when the apparatus is attached to an inside surface of a sloped windshield e.g., by a plurality of suction cups146, one or more photo-voltaic cells of the solar panel face outward and somewhat upward so as to readily receive sunlight during daylight hours, and convert it into electricity suitable for storage in the battery(s)172. Preferably a capacity of the photo-voltaic cells charge, and the one or more batteries store, a supply of electricity sufficient to power during at least hours of evening vehicle operation, one or more lights, electrically illuminated elements, or light-emitting-diodes ‘LEDs’, of a VSRI display member12illuminating embodiment of the apparatus e.g., as depicted inFIG. 19. Optionally the apparatus can include a light-intensity sensing element176communicably coupled to the circuit and one or more other components thereof e.g., adapted to turn on a charging of the battery(s) and/or the electrically illuminated elements) or LED(s) upon light outside a vehicle dropping below a given threshold (e.g., wherein an illuminating of the display would be helpful in seeing the display and/or further enhancing vehicle safety.

Accordingly, in one example of various exemplary RFID enabled arrangement variants possible, a VSRI displaying apparatus is adapted to incorporate into an apparatus housing, an electrical circuit in operative communication with, at least, a supply of electricity; an ultra-high frequency (UHF) RFID reader, adapted to be powered by the supply of electricity. Wherein the RFID reader is operable—in response to reacting data of at least one RFID tag or element (compatible with a UHF RFID reader) and associated with and/or attached adjacent a respective at least one of one or more objects adjacent, proximate, or being brought into the vicinity of a vehicle in which the VSRI display apparatus is releasably attached,—to communicate one or more control signals via the circuit, comprising either or both: a control signal momentary switched-on state communicated to at least one electro-mechanical actuator positioned internally within the VSRI apparatus housing to impart a linear actuation of sufficient force to a side portion of a VSRI display member to slide the member to a VSRI revealed state; a control signal switched-on state communicated to at least one lighting element positioned internally within the VSRI apparatus housing to direct light onto at least one side of a revealed state VSRI display member.

WhileFIGS. 18 and 19employ a ‘circle’ to diagrammatically depict one or more batteries, it is noted that one or more other arrangements for retaining one or more batteries including those having a different shape are also within the scope of the present invention including interior battery enclosures having a slidable or locking hatch or cover.

FIG. 19is a two-dimensional, somewhat diagrammatical depiction of an interior of a display apparatus body22or an upper portion of a rear-side112thereof, and preferably comprising the solar panel168and related components of the preferred embodiment of the present invention depicted inFIG. 18, whereinFIG. 1.9further depicts an option to include a self-illuminating embodiment of a VSRI display apparatus. Preferably,FIG. 19also comprises a slidably positionable display member12e.g., of a type manually positionable, or of a type actuated upon a push button release to slidably position a display member12to a fully-revealed state by a spring under compression as inFIGS. 16A-16B, or by a tensioned loop or strap as inFIGS. 17A-17E. Preferably, the apparatus comprises a switch174e.g., with a slidable button under some spring tension, wherein the button is slid (‘switched’) to an ‘OFF’ state upon contact being applied by an inward-facing side180of the slidably positionable member12, when the member is selectively positioned laterally to a fully-concealed state and a stepped side portion144thereof is latched in a manner previously described (e.g., by a latch mechanism100, or latch element154). Thereafter, upon an urging of a manually positionable display12laterally sufficient to overcome a latch mechanism100retention of a stepped portion144, or by a push button releasing of a latch element154engaging a stepped portion144. the inward-facing side180of the member12separates from the spring tensioned slidable switch button174which in turn, returns the switch to an ‘ON’ state.

Preferably the apparatus body22includes the light-intensity sensing element176previously described, which is communicably coupled to a circuit including the switch e.g., adapted to turn on one or more electrically illuminated elements, or LEDs.170when the positionable member is in a fully-concealed state and when light outside a vehicle, in which the apparatus is mounted or releasably fastened, is sensed to be below a given light threshold.

Optionally, a VSRI display member12can have a body comprising a transparent or translucent material e.g., a plastic or glass material, whereby light (depicted in dashed-and-dotted lines) emanating from the light(s), illuminated elements or LEDs170and penetrating the inward-facing side180of the member12illuminates vehicle safety-related indicia displayed thereon. The illuminating elements or LEDs provided in the apparatus body22can of a type providing a generally ‘white’ light or one or more colors.

It is noted that a surface texturing, engraving, etching, sand-blasting, embossing of VSRI on a display member12, and/or a masking treatment, painting, silk-screening, or opaque material applied to one or more, or all, negative-spaces in and/or around such indicia, can be conducive to improving a discernible or viewable at-a-glance perception of the VSRI and/or aesthetic quality thereof, and any one or more of such, are employable in theFIG. 18and/orFIG. 19preferred embodiments. Additionally, or alternatively the use of one or more glow-in-the-dark materials for negative space(s) or outlines of VSRI on a display member12are also employable.

FIG. 20is a three-dimensional depiction of an interior-facing portion of a dashboard, control or instrument panel162of a vehicle, comprising, a plurality of generally vehicle-operator facing portions182or air-vents178located therein (e.g., readily within reach of a vehicle operator), on, or to which, a rear side of a VSRI display apparatus10or display apparatus body22can be mounted, or releasably fastened, attached or clipped, unobtrusively, in a manner not impeding a view of the vehicle operator when normally looking forward, and such that a slidably positionable display member12and vehicle safety-related indicia ‘VSRI’ displayed thereon is selectively positionable by a vehicle-operator in a visually perceptible and/or viewable at-a-glance manner by the vehicle operator.

With respect toFIG. 21, a VSRI display apparatus10embodiment is depicted (releasably attachable in a manner previously described) interiorly comprising two magnets202A and202B aligned such that like poles are adjacent one another, wherein each magnet comprises sufficient magnetic force such that, upon a push-button150release of the VSRI display member12(as previously described), the display member incorporating a magnet202A located on an inwardly-facing end, is repelled away from a magnet202B located adjacent a cavity44side facing passageway34, wherein the magnetic force suffices to slidably position the VSRI display member to an indicia fully-revealed state (e.g., in a manner similar to an indicia fully-revealed state depicted inFIGS. 16B, 17B and 19). A VSRI display member12thus repelled, is returned to an indicia concealed state e.g., by being manually urged inwardly into cavity44(as inFIG. 21) and re-engaged for a subsequent push-button150release. Similarly, an alternative magnetic linear actuating or repelling force sufficient to slide a VSRI display member to an VSRI displaying revealed state can be selectively employed, wherein a supply of electrical power communicatively coupled with a circuit incorporated into an apparatus housing22is activated or switched momentarily-on by a pushing of a housing accessible apparatus button, which in turn empowers, either: a) a linear actuating of an armature of a solenoid adapted at an end to in turn impart the linear actuating force sufficient to slide the VSRI display member12; or, b) like poles of electro-magnetic202A and202B magnet variants adjacent one another to in turn impart the repelling force sufficient to slide the VSRI display member12. Alternatively, or additionally the supply of electrical power communicatively coupled with a circuit incorporated into an apparatus housing22may be activated or switched momentarily-on by a RFID proximity sensing device of a VSRI display apparatus sensing a proximate RFID element or tag adjacent, nearby or approaching nearby a vehicle having the VSRI display apparatus e.g., wherein the RFID element or tag is located with one or more objects already adjacent a side of the vehicle, or being moved toward a side of the vehicle (as described in more detail below).

In reference toFIGS. 22A through 22E, a VSRI apparatus10embodiment is depicted (releasably attachable in a manner previously described) optionally having on at least one side of an apparatus housing22and/or VSRI display member12(e.g., a distal end) a non-square angled side204. Additionally, or alternatively, other VSRI apparatus10and/or VSRI display member12shapes are also employable, including but not limited to, shapes having a pair of opposing parallel sides such as a parallelogram, a trapezoid, or certain polygonal shapes.

InFIGS. 22A, 22C and 22DVSRI display member12is depicted showing indicia indicative of a bicycle mounted vertically atop a rack40e.g., a bicycle extending outwardly and upwardly from a roof rack mounted adjacent a roof-side of the vehicle.

FIG. 22Bdepicts secondary indicia display area42(shown in dotted line) employable as previously described and which may additionally or alternatively include an aforementioned indicia pocket or receptacle.

InFIGS. 22A through 22Da front-side, vehicle-operator facing surface32shown proximate above a cavity44incorporating portion of the apparatus housing22is depicted having a reduced width, which may otherwise comprise a wider width such as in embodiments previously described e.g., to accommodate a larger front-side, vehicle-operator facing surface32and/or secondary indicia in a manner previously described. Preferably the embodiment depicted inFIGS. 22A through 22Dcomprises a VSRI display member support ledge206having a width and height surface in alignment with a elongate passageway34aligned with and leading into an elongate outwardly-facing open side of a cavity44, such that an end portion back-side of a VSRI display member12aligned adjacent the support ledge206surface, facilitates an aligned guidance and support of an inwardly-facing end portion of display member12when manually being slidably positioned into passageway34and cavity44e.g., to be releasably attached therein.

InFIG. 22C, the housing22of VSRI apparatus10is shown having two cutaway views210each showing at an opposite end of an interior portion of cavity44a spring-clip retainer212. The end portion of the VSRI display member12is depicted inFIG. 22Ccomprising opposing spring-clip engagement indents214each sized and shaped to be releasably attached within a respective spring-clip retainer212when the end portion of the VSRI display member12is urged inwardly fully into cavity44. Accordingly, each of a plurality of VSRI display members12having different VSRI thereon are selectively insertable and removable from theFIG. 22Chousing22of VSRI apparatus10, and such additional VSRI members12can be sold with, or separately from, a given VSRI apparatus10. While a particular combination of opposing spring-clip engagement indents214releasably attachable within respective opposing spring-clip retainers212have been described, it is noted that various other arrangements for slidably positioning a VSRI display member such that it is releasably attached to a VSRI display apparatus10are also employable. For example,FIG. 22Edepicts adjacent an end portion of an VSRI display member12an arrangement of a plurality of retention flanges, tabs or hooks each insertable into a corresponding apparatus10receptacle or aperture adapted to positively receive any of such e.g., when manually urging the display member end inwardly then downwardly, wherein a subsequent removable of the display member12occurs conversely, by an urging of the display member end upwardly then outwardly. Alternatively, one or more tabs adjacent an end portion of the member12can be somewhat wedge-shaped wherein a tab distal end portion is narrower than a member-attached portion of the tab, which in turn is somewhat wider than a corresponding aperture width of the apparatus housing (or body) whereby each tab distal end can be selectively wedged into and removed from a corresponding aperture for an inserting and removal of a given VSRI display member.

In reference toFIGS. 22A-22E, various ways for positively inserting and releasably attaching an end of the VSRI display member12in or to the housing22are alternatively or additionally employable, including but not limited to one or more of: a VSRI display member12comprising one or more elongate transverse ribs or tongues e.g., slidably positionable into one, or opposing, transverse grooves of a housing22or conversely a VSRI display member12comprising one or more elongate transverse grooves and the housing having a like number elongate ribs; one or more pins, pegs, screws or keepers insertable or installable into apertures of a housing22portion alignable with a like numbered aperture(s) of an end portion of VSRI display member; an employing of an adhesive material adapted to releasably attach a VSRI display member to a housing22; and the like. Magnets, snaps, clasps, hooks, hook-and-loop material, pegs, pins, loops and hooks, and/or one or more fasteners previously described are also employable.

FIG. 22Cfurther depicts an option to include one or more electrically illuminated elements such as one or more LEDs e.g., in a manner previously described. For example, wherein a VSRI display member12comprising a transparent or translucent material such as a plastic or polymer material (e.g., acrylic), or glass, includes on a major side etched or engraved, laser-etched or laser-engraved (or otherwise rendered by suitable means thereon) VSRI which in turn is illuminated by light from the LED(s) directed into the transparent or translucent material e.g., providing an edge-lit illuminating of the VSRI, rendered on a given releasably attached VSRI display member12. Accordingly such lighting is advantageous in low-light and/or poor-light conditions, and a previously described light-level or threshold sensing apparatus incorporated into an electrical circuit of a VSRI apparatus10can additionally be employed to automatically edge-light VSRI in response to a given or predetermined low-light and/or poor-light level or threshold being sensed.

It is noted that pocket or receptacle portion of a VSRI apparatus housing22can (e.g., in a manner previously described) be adapted to hold or store one or more additional VSRI display members12insertable in and removable from a pocket or receptacle opening accessible adjacent a side of the apparatus. See alsoFIGS. 12A through 12C.

In reference toFIGS. 23A and 23B, a VSRI display apparatus10is depicted comprising a slidably adjustable flexible VSRI display member222, which inFIG. 23Ais slidably retracted into a housing22of the apparatus (or body thereof), and inFIG. 23Bis depicted having been slid by a manual positioning of a handle230attached to a distal end of the flexible display member, so as to extend the flexible material outwardly over an full adjustment range indicated by bracket226. The VSRI display apparatus housing22preferably comprises a principally cylindrical shaped portion integrally formed adjacent, or adapted to be releasably attached adjacent, transversely a first housing end adjacent a vehicle-operator facing surface32. Coaxially located within, and having a diameter less than that of, the cylindrical shaped portion, is a spindle or cylindrical roller (not shown) configured at opposite ends so as to rotate about a longitudinal axis. In one embodiment of theFIG. 23A-23BVSRI display apparatus10the spindle or cylindrical roller comprises a diameter of a greater reduced-size sufficient to accommodate a rolling up of the entire length of a suitably flexible display member222when retracted thereabout. In another embodiment of the display apparatus10(ofFIGS. 23A and 23B) a spindle or cylindrical roller has a diameter of a lesser-reduced size, sufficient to accommodate a guiding of the flexible display member222between an generally outwardly-facing spindle or roller side and a proximate concave arced interior portion of the cylindrical shaped portion, such that the member (preferably configured somewhat stiffer than that of the prior embodiment) moves within a lower apparatus housing portion in a direction opposite that of the handle230being manually slidably positioned.

Additionally or alternatively, a normally vehicle-operator facing surface area of the flexible VSRI display member222, visually perceptible to a vehicle operator when the apparatus10is mounted for use and the flexible member is extended fully outward, can further comprise a flexible transparent pocket or receptacle located adjacent a side portion of the flexible VSRI display member, the flexible pocket or receptacle of sufficient capacity to receive inserted therein and extract removably therefrom one or more of a plurality, series or array, of different flexible VSRI elements, each independently displayable as VSRI of the flexible VSRI display member.

Thus, configured one or more different pocket-sized VSRI can be selectively inserted or removed from the flexible transparent pocket wherein both the flexible pocket and the flexible display member222are retractable or slidably positionable into a VSRI non-revealed state within the housing22of the apparatus10, and thereafter ready for a subsequent positioning to a VSRI revealed and releasably attached state.

In operation, a vehicle operator or user of aFIG. 23Aembodiment can begin a manual positioning of the handle230(or other member attached to a distal end of a flexible display member222) at an apparatus10location similar to that depicted inFIG. 23A, such that a VSRI display member distal end and flexible display material attached thereto slides outwardly until a flexible VSRI display member fastener228located adjacent the distal end of the flexible member is aligned to engage with a corresponding fastener receiver and/or suitable fastener attachment point or element. For example, inFIG. 23Ca distal end24of the VSRI display apparatus10embodiment depicted inFIGS. 23A and 23B, comprises an apparatus housing elongate slot for engagement of an elongate hooked portion of a flexible VSRI display member fastener. InFIG. 23Dthe elongate hooked portion of a flexible VSRI display member fastener228in depicted engaged within the elongate slot232. it is noted that various other arrangements for releasably fastening

It is noted that an end portion of an aforementioned spindle or roller can be adapted so as to predispose either, to retract, or facilitate a retraction of, a flexible VSRI display member. For example, by further comprising an elastic material or combination spring-and-strap, attached intermediate a housing interior portion at one end and proximate a handle230at an opposite end, wherein the elastic material, or the strap portion of the spring-ad-strap combination is directed about an outwardly facing side of a roller, in a previously described manner, such as that described in reference toFIGS. 17C, 17D and 17E. Thus configured, a roller, such as roller200(or narrower variant thereof), may be incorporated adjacent and aligned coaxially with the flexible VSRI display member roller or spindle, such that the elastic material (e.g., a pre-stretched polyurethane narrow strap or band), or the spring of the spring-and-strap combination, is stretched upon a manual slide positioning of the handle230outwardly toward distal end204(e.g., akin to a manual positioning of handle12inFIGS. 17D and 17E). Subsequent to a fastener of a handle230being engaged e.g., in an elongate slot232, and upon a vehicle operator or user disengaging the handle fastener a tensioning of the spring or elastic material suffices to fully retract the flexible VSRI display material222interiorly within the apparatus housing22or facilitates such a retraction.

Additionally, one or more variants of the embodiment depicted inFIGS. 23A through 23Dcan comprise, as previously described, an electrical circuit in operative communication with a supply of electricity, an electrical switch and at least one lighting element wherein, a lighting element is positioned within the housing of the apparatus to direct light, in response to a manual switching on, or alternatively an electronic switching on, of the switch, onto a vehicle-operator facing surface32made of a transparent or translucent material, wherein the light is of sufficient intensity to backlight a flexible VSRI display material222sildably positioned in close proximately above surface32which preferably is made of a material conducive to being thus backlit. For example, wherein a lighting of the flexible VSRI display member222is of sufficient light intensity to be visually perceptible at-a-glance to the vehicle operator, repeatedly, in a low-light or poor-light condition about the vehicle operator.

It is noted that one or more of a number of various fasteners including, but not limited to those previously described, are employable to releasably attach a distal end of flexible VSRI display material to a distal end of an VSRI display apparatus housing portion. A VSRI display apparatus10and/or VSRI display member12may further or alternatively comprise a normally vehicle-operator facing surface, or subset portion thereof, having or incorporating an opaque, translucent or transparent material suitable for marking with a pen or marker having an erasable or whiteboard erasable ink or dry ink, whereby, a vehicle operator may hand-write information such as VSRI information, or other notation(s) thereon e.g., applicable to a particular one or more destination(s), object(s) adjacent at least one side of the vehicle, task(s) to be done, item(s) to procure, and the like, during a given route, leg, trip or journey. Similarly, the normally vehicle-operator facing surface, or subset portion thereof, can comprise a material or surface material (or portion thereof) suitable for attaching adjacent thereto, a paper note sized smaller than or approximately the same size as the vehicle-operator facing surface, or subset portion thereof, for example, by a clip (or other suitable fastener), or by a paper note having on a back side an adhesive portion.

Although the present invention has been described with a certain degree of particularity, it is understood that the present disclosure has been made by way of example, and changes in detail or structure may be made without departing from the spirit of the invention in the previous descriptions and those skilled in the art should understand that they can make various changes, substitutions and alterations herein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention in its broadest form.