InventionHome spotlights Coasting Lights vehicle safety system

InventionHome is highlighting a patent-pending concept from Stephen L. of Westland, Michigan, for rear-facing Coasting Lights that would alert drivers sooner when a vehicle ahead is slowing. The idea aims to add an automatic layer of communication between vehicles and could improve reaction time in everyday traffic.

Why it matters: - Coasting Lights is designed to give following drivers earlier notice that a vehicle ahead is slowing, which could create more reaction time before conventional brake lights come on. - The concept targets a gap in current vehicle lighting by signaling coasting, not just braking or turning. - Stephen L. says the system could also help document brake checking when paired with dash cams.

What happened: - InventionHome is featuring Stephen L. of Westland, Michigan, as part of its Inventor Spotlight series. - Stephen L. developed Coasting Lights, a patent-pending vehicle safety lighting system. - The system would automatically illuminate rear-facing lights when a vehicle is moving without the accelerator or brake pedal engaged. - The idea came from Stephen L.’s driving experience on major roadways, where sudden braking from vehicles ahead created a surprise risk.

The details: - Coasting Lights would activate based on vehicle movement and pedal position. - The lights are intended to come on while the vehicle is coasting, before standard brake lights are triggered. - The system could be built into existing taillight assemblies or added as separate lighting elements. - Possible colors mentioned for the new lights include amber or blue to distinguish them from brake lights. - Stephen L. said the system could be useful when a driver ahead is beginning to slow, preparing to turn, or otherwise changing speed. - The concept could also apply when a vehicle leaves the roadway or experiences an incident, while the vehicle is still running and no pedal is engaged. - Technical changes could include added wiring and electrical control-system modifications to monitor accelerator and brake pedal positions along with vehicle movement. - Stephen L. also sees possible front-facing applications that could signal to drivers ahead that a vehicle behind them is coasting. - InventionHome says the goal is to add another automatic communication layer between motorists to support awareness and safer driving.

Between the lines: - The concept tries to solve a common visibility problem: drivers usually learn a car ahead is slowing only when brake lights appear. - Because the system is automatic, it would not depend on driver action the way turn signals do. - The broader pitch is not just safety hardware but a new signaling standard for vehicle-to-vehicle awareness.

What's next: - Companies interested in Coasting Lights can contact InventionHome at member@inventionhome.com. - Inventors seeking help with patenting, marketing, or licensing can request information from InventionHome at info@inventionhome.com or call 1-866-844-6512. - InventionHome invites visitors to learn more at the company's website and its inventor resources library.