INDICATOR APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR A VEHICLE USING SIDE-EMITTING LIGHT-EMITTING DIODE

摘要

An indicator is provided that utilizes a side-emitting light-emitting diode to indicate the state of a vehicle. An example vehicle indicator is an automobi le turn indicator. Other embodiments and features further provide for a conventional light-emitting diode additionally mounted to the vehicle indicator. Certain embodiments provide a cover that protects the vehicle indicator from damage and influences the pattern and/or frequency of light emanating from the vehicle indicator. Yet other embodiments provide a circuit board for converting powe r from the vehicle's power source to the particular power requirements, a timi ng mechanism for controlling illumination, and a heat dissipating apparatus for controlling the temperature of the side-emitting light-emitting diode. Still other embodiments provide an indicator that directs light toward the vehicle operator.