Description:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
[See section 10, Rule 13]

VEHICLE

HERO MOTOCORP LIMITED, an Indian Company at: The Grand Plaza, Plot No.2, Nelson Mandela Road, Vasant Kunj- Phase -II, New Delhi, India, 110 070

THE FOLLOWING SPECIFICATION PARTICULARLY DESCRIBES THE INVENTION AND THE MANNER IN WHICH IT IS TO BE PERFORMED.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION:
[001] The present invention relates to a vehicle comprising an illuminating device for illuminating at least the footboard portion and a method for controlling the illuminating device.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION:
[002] Vehicles generally comprise a body frame supporting a front ground engaging member, a rear ground engaging member, a power unit which supplies driving power to at least one of the front ground engaging member and the rear ground engaging member, a handle bar for steering the front ground engaging member and a seat unit for providing seating for at least a rider of the vehicle. The vehicle further comprises a footboard portion which is disposed between the seat and the handle bar. The footboard portion typically provides space for resting of foot. The footboard may additionally serve to accommodate user articles. In many cases, such as in darkness or low light conditions, it is desirable to illuminate at least the footboard portion. Thus, there may be provided an illuminating device which illuminates at least the footboard portion. In case an illuminating device for illuminating the footboard portion is provided, there is additionally provided a switch to control the functioning of the illuminating device. Providing the switch has several disadvantages which includes a space constraint in positioning of the switch, incontinence in operating the switch in different situations, an increased cost of the vehicle, etc. Thus, there needs a need to provide an illuminating device for illuminating at least the footboard portion which addresses one or more of the aforesaid disadvantages.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:
[003] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[004] Accordingly, the present invention provides a vehicle comprising a body frame; a footboard portion mounted to the body frame and positioned between a seat and a handlebar; at least one illuminating device illuminating at least the footboard portion; and a controller switching ON the at least one illuminating device in response to an ignition switch being in an ON state; and a stand device sensor producing a first signal corresponding to a stand device being in a ground engaging state.

[005] In an embodiment of the invention, the controller switches OFF the at least one illuminating device in response to expiry of a predetermined time period as calculated from switching ON of the at least one illuminating device.

[006] In another embodiment of the invention, the controller switches OFF the at least one illuminating device prior to expiry of the predetermined time period in response to a level of ambient light as sensed by an ambient light sensor being in excess of a predetermined level.

[007] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the controller switches OFF the at least one illuminating device prior to expiry of the predetermined time period in response to the stand device sensor not producing the first signal.

[008] In still another embodiment of the invention, the controller switches OFF the at least one illuminating device prior to expiry of the predetermined time period in response to the vehicle being turned OFF in an auto-power-unit cut-off mode.

[009] In a further embodiment of the invention, the controller switches OFF the at least one illuminating device prior to expiry of the predetermined time period in response to a throttle sensor indicating actuation of a throttle of the vehicle.

[0010] In a furthermore embodiment of the invention, the controller switches OFF the at least one illuminating device prior to expiry of the predetermined time period in response to a first brake sensor indicating actuating of a first brake and a second brake sensor indicating actuating of a second brake.

[0011] In an embodiment of the invention, the controller switches OFF the at least one illuminating device prior to expiry of the predetermined time period in response to the power unit coming to a power generating state.

[0012] In another embodiment of the invention, the at least one illuminating device is placed in at a front-end portion of the vehicle.

[0013] In yet another embodiment of the invention, the at least one illuminating device is placed in at a rear-end portion of the vehicle.

[0014] In still another embodiment of the invention, the at least one illuminating device is integrated within the floorboard portion of the vehicle.

[0015] In a further embodiment of the invention, the controller switches ON the at least one illuminating device in response to a seat latch sensor producing a third signal indicating opening of the seat.

[0016] The invention further provides a method for controlling an illuminating device illuminating at least the footboard portion of the vehicle. The method comprises sensing, by a controller, a state of an ignition switch and a state of a stand device sensor; and switching ON, by the controller, the at least one illuminating device in response to the ignition switch being in an ON state; and the stand device sensor producing a first signal corresponding to a stand device being in a ground engaging state.

[0017] An advantage of the invention is that the illuminating device illuminating at least the footboard portion of the vehicle can be switched ON and OFF automatically, especially without the need to provide a separate switch. Thus, the invention overcomes the disadvantages associated with space constraint in positioning of the switch. Also, the invention reduces the cost of the vehicle.

[0018] It can be seen that each and every one of the ignition switch, the stand device sensor, the controller, the timer, the ambient light sensor, an auto-power-unit cut-off mode controlling switch, the throttle sensor indicating actuation of a throttle of the vehicle, the first brake sensor, the second brake sensor, a sensor indicating that power unit has comes to a power generating state, and the seat latch sensor are already provided in the vehicle for serving their primary purposes. Thus, the present invention merely utilizes one or more of these sensors for additionally controlling the state of the illuminating device.

[0019] Also, controlling the state of the illuminating device is not conditioned upon presence of all of ignition switch, the stand device sensor, the controller, the timer (which inherently forms part of the controller), the ambient light sensor, an auto-power-unit cut-off mode controlling switch, the throttle sensor indicating actuation of a throttle of the vehicle, the first brake sensor, the second brake sensor, a sensor indicating that power unit has comes to a power generating state, and the seat latch sensor. Rather, controlling the state of the illuminating device merely requires presence of ignition switch, the stand device sensor, and the controller.

[0020] To further clarify the advantages and features of the invention, a more particular description of the invention will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof, which is illustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that these drawings depict only typical embodiments of the invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES:
[0021] In order that the invention may be readily understood and put into practical effect, reference will now be made to exemplary embodiments as illustrated with reference to the accompanying drawings, where like reference numerals refer to identical or functionally similar elements throughout the separate views. The figures together with a detailed description below, are incorporated in and form part of the specification, and serve to further illustrate the embodiments and explain various principles and advantages, in accordance with the present invention where:

[0022] Figure 1 illustrates a perspective view of the vehicle in accordance with an embodiment of the invention;

[0023] Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of a part of the vehicle particularly showing the floorboard being supported by the body frame in accordance with an embodiment of the invention

[0024] Figure 3 illustrates a block diagram of electrical components which are involved in controlling of the illuminating device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention; and

[0025] Figure 4 illustrates a flow chart of a method for controlling the illuminating device in accordance with an embodiment of the invention.

[0026] It may be noted that to the extent possible, like reference numerals have been used to represent like elements in the drawings. Further, skilled artisans will appreciate that elements in the drawings are illustrated for simplicity and may not have been necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, the dimensions of some of the elements in the drawings may be exaggerated relative to other elements to help to improve understanding of aspects of the present invention. Furthermore, one or more elements may have been represented in the drawings by conventional symbols, and the drawings may show only those specific details that are pertinent to understanding the embodiments of the present invention so as not to obscure the drawings with details that will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of the description herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:
[0027] For the purpose of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiment illustrated in the drawings and specific language will be used to describe the same. It will nevertheless be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended, such alterations and further modifications in the illustrated device, and such further applications of the principles of the invention as illustrated therein being contemplated as would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

[0028] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are explanatory of the invention and are not intended to be restrictive thereof.

[0029] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0030] Reference throughout this specification to “an aspect”, “another aspect” or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrase “in an embodiment”, “in another embodiment”, and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.

[0031] The terms "comprises", "comprising", or any other variations thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion, such that one or more devices or sub-systems or elements or structures or components proceeded by "comprises... a" does not, without more constraints, preclude the existence of other devices or other sub-systems or other elements or other structures or other components or additional devices or additional sub-systems or additional elements or additional structures or additional components.

[0032] As used herein, and unless the context dictates otherwise, the terms "coupled to", “connected to”, “operably connected to”, and “operatively connected to” are intended to include both direct connection / coupling (in which two elements that are coupled / connected to each other contact each other) and indirect coupling / connection (in which at least one additional element is located between the two elements). Therefore, the terms "coupled to" and "coupled with" are used synonymously. Similarly, the terms “connected to” and “connected with” are used synonymously.

[0033] Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one ordinary skilled in the art to which this invention belongs. The device, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and not intended to be limiting.

[0034] The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g. “such as”) provided with respect to certain embodiments herein is intended merely to better illuminate the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as being essential to the practice of the invention.

[0035] Groupings of alternative elements or embodiments of the invention disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations. Each group member can be referred to and claimed individually or in any combination with other members of the group or other elements found herein. One or more members of a group can be included in, or deleted from, a group for reasons of convenience and/or patentability. When any such inclusion or deletion occurs, the specification is herein deemed to contain the group as modified thus fulfilling the written description of all Markush groups used in the appended claims.

[0036] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0037] The terms “front / forward”, “rear / rearward / back / backward”, “up / upper / top”, “down / lower / lower ward / downward, bottom”, “left / leftward”, “right / rightward” used therein represents the directions as seen from a vehicle driver sitting astride.

[0038] While the present invention is illustrated in the context of a vehicle, however, cover and aspects and features thereof can be used with other types of vehicles as well. The terms “vehicle”, “two wheeled vehicle” and “motorcycle” have been interchangeably used throughout the description. The term “vehicle” comprises vehicles such as motorcycles, scooters, bicycles, mopeds, scooter type vehicles, All-Terrain Vehicles (ATV) and the like.

[0039] Now referring to Figure 1, there is illustrated a perspective view of a vehicle (10) in accordance with the teachings of the invention. The vehicle (10) inter-alia comprises a front ground engaging member (12), a rear ground engaging member (14) and a power unit (16) generating and supplying power to at least one of the front ground engaging member (12) and the rear ground engaging member (14). The vehicle (10) further comprises a handle bar (18) which is coupled to the front ground engaging member (12) and which allows a user to steer the vehicle (10). The vehicle (10) comprises a front portion (38) wherein the front ground engaging member (12) and the handle bar (18) are disposed. The front portion (38) further comprises a front body cover (20) which hides at least a part of a body frame (30), best seen in Figure 2. The vehicle (10) comprises a rear portion (40) wherein the rear ground engaging member (14) is disposed. The vehicle (10) further comprises a seat (26) disposed above the rear ground engaging member (14). The vehicle (10) further comprises a rear body cover (24) which lies below the seat (26) and hides at least a part of a body frame (30). The vehicle (10) further comprises a footboard portion (22) which is mounted on the body frame (30) and lies between the handle bar (18) and the seat (26). The vehicle (10) further comprises at least one stand device (32). The at least one stand device (32) may be in a ground engaging state or in a ground non-engaging state. The vehicle (10) further comprises at least one throttle device (36) disposed on the handlebar (18) for controlling a power generated by the power unit (16), a first braking device (34) for applying brake on the front ground engaging member (12) and a second braking device (not visible) for applying brake on the rear ground engaging member (14). The vehicle (10) further comprises at least one illuminating device (281, 282, 283) for illuminating the footboard portion (22). The at least one illuminating device (281, 282, 283) may be placed in at least one of a front end portion (38) of the vehicle (10); or a rear end portion (40) of the vehicle (10); or may be integrated within the floorboard portion (16) of the vehicle (10). For instance, a first illuminating device (281) is shown to be placed in the front end portion (38) of the vehicle (10); a second illuminating device (282) is shown to be placed in the rear end portion (40) of the vehicle (10); and the third illuminating device (283) is shown as being integrated within the floorboard portion (16) of the vehicle (10). The purpose of the at least one illuminating device (281, 282, 283) is to illuminate at least a part of the footboard portion (22).

[0040] Now referring Figure 1 and Figure 3 together, the vehicle (10) further comprises a controller (50) which is connected to an ignition switch (52), and at least one stand device sensor (54). The ignition switch (52) is typically disposed on the front portion (38) of the vehicle (10) and controls the ignition of the power unit (16). The at least one stand device sensor (54) is disposed so as to sense whether the stand device (32) is in a ground engaging state or in a ground non-engaging state. The controller (52) may inherently have a timer (56) which can be used for a variety of purposes by the controller (52).

[0041] The vehicle (10) may comprise an ambient light sensor (58), which senses a level of ambient light and may for example be disposed on the front portion (38) of the vehicle (10). The controller (50) may be adapted to automatically turn OFF the power unit (16) so as to save fuel or battery. Thus, there may be provided an auto-power-unit cut-off mode controlling switch (60) using which the user can bring the controller (50) to the auto-power-unit cut-off mode. By way of a non-limiting example, the auto-power-unit cut-off mode controlling switch (60) may be disposed on the front portion (38) of the vehicle (10).

[0042] The vehicle (10) may comprise a throttle sensor (62) for sensing a level of actuation of the throttle (36) and providing an output representing a level of actuation of the throttle (36). By way of example, the throttle sensor (62) may form part of the throttle device (36).

[0043] The vehicle (10) further comprise a first brake switch (64) disposed as part of the first braking device (34) to sensing actuation of the first braking device (34). Also, the vehicle (10) further comprise a second brake switch (66) disposed as part of the second braking device (not shown) to sensing actuation of the second braking device.

[0044] The vehicle (10) further comprises at least one sensor (68) which senses the power unit (16) coming to a power generating state. The sensor (68), may for example, generate a second signal in case the power unit (16) is in a power generating state and may not produce the second signal in case the power unit (16) is not in the power generating state.

[0045] The vehicle (10) further comprises at least one seat latch sensor (70). In case the seat is in an open condition, the seat latch sensor (70) generates a third signal and may not produce the third signal in case the seat is in a closed condition.

[0046] In addition to the controller (50) being connected to an ignition switch (52), and at least one stand device sensor (54); the controller may also be connected to one or more of the ambient light sensor (58), the auto-power-unit cut-off mode controlling switch (60), the throttle sensor (62), the first brake switch (64), the second brake switch (66), the sensor (68) which senses the power unit (16) coming to a power generating state, and the seat latch sensor (70). It may be seen that none of an ignition switch (52), at least one stand device sensor (54); the ambient light sensor (58), the auto-power-unit cut-off mode controlling switch (60), the throttle sensor (62), the first brake switch (64), the second brake switch (66), the sensor (68) which senses the power unit (16) coming to a power generating state, and the seat latch sensor (70) has their respective primary functionality and none is intended for controlling the illuminating device (28). On the other hand, as per the teachings of the present invention, the controller (50) controls the illuminating device (28) on the basis of one of more of these components.

[0047] Now referring to Figure 4, there is illustrated a method (100) for controlling the illuminating device (28). The method (100) comprises the controller (50) sensing (102) a state of an ignition switch (52) and a state of a stand device sensor (54). The controller may optionally sense a state of a seat latch sensor (60).

[0048] The, the controller (50) switches ON (104) the at least one illuminating device (28) in response to the ignition switch (52) being in an ON state; and the stand device sensor (54) producing a first signal corresponding to the stand device (32) being in a ground engaging state. In an alternative embodiment of the invention, the controller (50) switches ON (104) the at least one illuminating device (28) in response to the ignition switch (52) being in an ON state; the stand device sensor (54) producing a first signal corresponding to the stand device (32) being in a ground engaging state; and the seat latch sensor (70) producing a third signal indicating opening of the seat (26).

[0049] Apart from switching ON the at least one illuminating device (28), the controller (50) also has to switch OFF the at least one illuminating device (28). In the most simple option, immediately after switching ON the at least one illuminating device (28), the controller (50) starts (110) a times (56). The timer (56) may form part of the controller (50) itself. The controller (50) then waits for expiry of a predetermined amount of time period (as calculated from switching ON of the at least one illuminating device (28)) and then switches OFF (108) the at least one illuminating device (28). By way of example, the controller (50) may maintain the illuminating device (28) in an ON state for about 1 minute and thereafter, automatically switch OFF the illuminating device (28).

[0050] In some instances, it may be desirable to switch OFF the at least one illuminating device (28) even prior to expiry of the predetermined amount of time period (as calculated from switching ON of the at least one illuminating device (28)). By way of a first example, if a level of ambient light is in excess of a predetermined level, then the at least one illuminating device (28) may be switched OFF (106) without waiting for expiry of the predetermined amount of time period. To enable the above, the controller (50) takes into consideration (112) an output as produced by the ambient light sensor (58). By way of a second example, if the stand device is not producing the first signal (which corresponds to the stand device (32) being a ground engaging state), then the at least one illuminating device (28) may be switched OFF (106) without waiting for expiry of the predetermined amount of time period. Thus, if the stand device comes to a ground non-engaging state prior to expiry of the predetermined amount of time period, then the at least one illuminating device (28) may be switched OFF (106) without waiting for expiry of the predetermined amount of time period. To enable the above, the controller (50) takes into consideration (112) an output as produced by the stand device sensor (54).

[0051] By way of a third non-limiting example, if the user actuates a throttle device (36) even prior to expiry of the predetermined amount of time period, the controller (50) may switch OFF (106) the at least one illuminating device (28) without waiting for expiry of the predetermined amount of time period. To enable the above, the controller (50) may take into consideration (112) an out as produced by the throttle sensor (62).

[0052] By way of a fourth non-limiting example, if the user actuates both the first braking device (34) and the second braking device (not shown) even prior to expiry of the predetermined amount of time period, the controller (50) may switch OFF (106) the at least one illuminating device (28) without waiting for expiry of the predetermined amount of time period. To enable the above, the controller (50) may take into consideration (112) an output as produced by the first brake sensor (64) and the second brake sensor (66).

[0053] By way of a fifth non-limiting example, if the power unit (16) comes to a power generating state even prior to expiry of the predetermined amount of time period, the controller (50) may switch OFF (106) the at least one illuminating device (28) without waiting for expiry of the predetermined amount of time period. To enable the above, the controller (50) may take into consideration (112) an output as produced by the sensor (68).

[0054] By way of a sixth non-limiting example, if the vehicle (10) and more particularly, if the power unit (16) is being switched OFF by the control (50) on account of being in an auto-power-unit cut-off mode, the controller (50) may switch OFF (106) the at least one illuminating device (28) without waiting for expiry of the predetermined amount of time period. To enable the above, the controller (50) may take into consideration (112) a state of the auto-power-unit cut-off mode controlling switch (60).

[0055] An advantage of the invention is that the illuminating device illuminating at least the footboard portion of the vehicle can be switched ON and OFF automatically, especially without the need to provide a separate switch. Thus, the invention overcomes the disadvantages associated with space constraint in positioning of the switch. Also, the invention reduces the cost of the vehicle.

[0056] It can be seen that each and every one of the ignition switch, the stand device sensor, the controller, the timer, the ambient light sensor, an auto-power-unit cut-off mode controlling switch, the throttle sensor indicating actuation of a throttle of the vehicle, the first brake sensor, the second brake sensor, a sensor indicating that power unit has comes to a power generating state, and the seat latch sensor are already provided in the vehicle for serving their primary purposes. Thus, the present invention merely utilizes one or more of these sensors for additionally controlling the state of the illuminating device.

[0057] Also, controlling the state of the illuminating device is not conditioned upon presence of all of ignition switch, the stand device sensor, the controller, the timer (which inherently forms part of the controller), the ambient light sensor, an auto-power-unit cut-off mode controlling switch, the throttle sensor indicating actuation of a throttle of the vehicle, the first brake sensor, the second brake sensor, a sensor indicating that power unit has comes to a power generating state, and the seat latch sensor. Rather, controlling the state of the illuminating device merely requires presence of ignition switch, the stand device sensor, and the controller.

[0058] While specific language has been used to describe the disclosure, any limitations arising on account of the same are not intended. As would be apparent to a person in the art, various working modifications may be made to the method in order to implement the inventive concept as taught herein.

[0059] The figures and the forgoing description give examples of embodiments. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that one or more of the described elements may well be combined into a single functional element. Alternatively, certain elements may be split into multiple functional elements. Elements from one embodiment may be added to another embodiment. The scope of embodiments is by no means limited by these specific examples. Additionally, numerous variations, whether explicitly given in the specification or not, such as differences in structure, dimension, and use of material, are possible.
, Claims:WE CLAIM:

1. A vehicle (10), comprising
a body frame (30);
a footboard portion (22) mounted to the body frame (30) and positioned between a seat (26) and a handlebar (18);
at least one illuminating device (28) illuminating at least the footboard portion (22) of the vehicle (10); and
a controller (50) switching ON the at least one illuminating device (28) in response to an ignition switch (52) being in an ON state; and a stand device sensor (54) producing a first signal corresponding to a stand device (32) being in a ground engaging state.

2. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the controller (50) switches OFF the at least one illuminating device (28) in response to expiry of a predetermined time period as calculated from switching ON of the at least one illuminating device (18).

3. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 2, wherein the controller (50) switches OFF (110) the at least one illuminating device (28) prior to expiry of the predetermined time period in response to at least one of:
• a level of ambient light as sensed by an ambient light sensor (58) being in excess of a predetermined level;
• the stand device sensor (54) not producing the first signal;
• the vehicle (10) being turned OFF in an auto-power-unit cut-off mode;
• a throttle sensor (62) indicating actuation of a throttle (36) of the vehicle (10);
• a first brake sensor (64) indicating actuating of a first brake (34) and a second brake sensor (66) indicating actuating of a second brake; and
• the power unit (16) coming to a power generating state.

4. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the at least one illuminating device (28) being placed in at least one of a front end portion (38) of the vehicle (10); a rear end portion (40) of the vehicle (10); and being integrated within the floorboard portion (22) of the vehicle (10).

5. The vehicle (10) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the controller (50) switches ON the at least one illuminating device (28) in response to a seat latch sensor (70) producing a second signal indicating opening of the seat (26).

6. A method (100) for controlling an illuminating device (28) illuminating at least the footboard portion (22) of the vehicle (10), the method (100) comprising:
sensing (102), by a controller (50), a state of an ignition switch (52) and a state of a stand device sensor (54); and
switching ON (104), by the controller (50), the at least one illuminating device (28) in response to the ignition switch (52) being in an ON state; and the stand device sensor (54) producing a first signal corresponding to a stand device (32) being in a ground engaging state.

7. The method (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the controller (50) switches OFF (108) the at least one illuminating device (28) in response to expiry of a predetermined time period as calculated from switching ON of the at least one illuminating device (28).

8. The method (100) as claimed in claim 7, wherein the controller (50) switches OFF (106) the at least one illuminating device (28) prior to expiry of the predetermined time period in response to at least one of:
• a level of ambient light as sensed by an ambient light sensor (58) being in excess of a predetermined level;
• the stand device sensor (54) not producing the first signal;
• the vehicle (10) being in an auto-power-unit cut-off mode;
• a throttle sensor (62) indicating actuation of a throttle (36) of the vehicle (10);
• a first brake sensor (64) indicating actuating of a first brake (34) and a second brake sensor (66) indicating actuating of a second brake; and
• the power unit (16) coming to a power generating state.

9. The method (100) as claimed in claim 6, wherein the controller (50) switches ON (104) the at least one illuminating device (28) in response to a seat latch sensor (70) producing a third signal indicating opening of the seat (26).