U.S. patent application number 11/271404 was filed with the patent office on 2007-01-04 for modular display system.
This patent application is currently assigned to Daktronics, Inc.. Invention is credited to Neil Richard Burghardt, Mark Daniel Dennis, Chad Neal Gloege, Ryan Mark Hansen, Robert James Lutz, Harvey Lee Mehlum, Matthew Ray Mueller, Nathan Lane Nearman, Russell Jon Neyens, Brett David Wendler.
Application Number | 20070000849 11/271404 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 38067686 |
Filed Date | 2007-01-04 |
United States Patent
Application |
20070000849 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Lutz; Robert James ; et
al. |
January 4, 2007 |
Modular display system
Abstract
A modular display system having individual stackable electronic
display panels of convenient and portable size and mounting
structures for the support thereof where the stackable electronic
display panels mutually juxtapose, mate, and robustly and mutually
and adjustably secure together by the use of connector plates at
the top of stackable electronic display panels interfacing with
interlocking lower connector assemblies and lower connector plate
receptors at the bottom of an overhead vertically situated
stackable electronic display panel and by interfacing of latches
and cams of latch keeper assemblies at the sides of horizontally
situated stackable electronic display panels to form a large
electronic sign display. Spring-loaded slide pin assemblies foster
rapid and secure connection between vertically situated stackable
electronic display panels. Adjustment features are also
incorporated to align each stackable electronic display panel.
Inventors: |
Lutz; Robert James; (Bruce,
SD) ; Mueller; Matthew Ray; (Colman, SD) ;
Gloege; Chad Neal; (Brookings, SD) ; Burghardt; Neil
Richard; (Brookings, SD) ; Mehlum; Harvey Lee;
(Ramona, SD) ; Wendler; Brett David; (Watertown,
SD) ; Neyens; Russell Jon; (Brookings, SD) ;
Nearman; Nathan Lane; (Brookings, SD) ; Dennis; Mark
Daniel; (Dell Rapids, SD) ; Hansen; Ryan Mark;
(Watertown, SD) |
Correspondence
Address: |
HUGH D JAEGER
1000 SUPERIOR BLVD
SUITE 302
WAYZATA
MN
553911873
US
|
Assignee: |
Daktronics, Inc.
|
Family ID: |
38067686 |
Appl. No.: |
11/271404 |
Filed: |
November 10, 2005 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60647268 |
Jan 25, 2005 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
211/26 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G09F 9/33 20130101; G09F
9/3026 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
211/026 |
International
Class: |
A47F 7/00 20060101
A47F007/00 |
Claims
1. A modular display system, comprising: a. a plurality of
stackable electronic display panels, each stackable electronic
display panel of the plurality of stackable electronic display
panels including: (1) an LED display module; and, (2) a connector
framework carrying the LED display module, the connector framework
having a top channel and a bottom channel together having at least
one connector means for vertical securing to another stackable
electronic display panel of the plurality of stackable electronic
display panels, and a right side panel and a left side panel
together having at least one latching means thereon for horizontal
securing to another stackable electronic display panel of the
plurality of stackable electronic display panels, such that
connector frameworks of the plurality of stackable electronic
display panels may be removably attached to one another to bring
the LED display modules carried by each into closely aligned
proximity to provide a substantially seamless display.
2. The modular display system of claim 1, wherein the LED display
module of each stackable electronic display panel of the plurality
of stackable electronic display panels is carried on the connector
framework by an LED display module latching system, the latching
system having a centrally located actuator mechanism.
3. The modular display system of claim 2, wherein the centrally
located actuator mechanism is accessible from front or back.
4. The modular display system of claim 1, wherein the connector
framework is a one-piece framework.
5. The modular display system of claim 1, wherein the connector
framework is formed of aluminum or molded plastic with an anti-EMI
coating.
6. The modular display system of claim 1, wherein the connector
means include: (a) a connector plate on either of the top channel
or the bottom channel; (b) a connector plate receptor on the
opposite channel from the connector plate; and, (c) a slide pin for
releasably capturing the connector plate of one stackable
electronic display panel of the plurality of stackable electronic
display panels within the connector plate receptor of another
associated vertically aligned stackable electronic display panel of
the plurality of stackable electronic display panels.
7. The modular display system of claim 6, wherein the connector
means is one of four connector means for vertical securing to
another stackable electronic display panel of the plurality of
stackable electronic display panels.
8. The modular display system of claim 7, wherein the four
connector means are paired with one pair adjacent to a front face
of the connector framework and one pair adjacent to a rear face of
the connector framework.
9. The modular display system of claim 8, wherein at least one of
the paired connector means further includes means for "X" axis
pivotal adjustment about an "X" axis defined between vertically
adjoining connector frameworks.
10. The modular display system of claim 9, wherein the means for
"X" axis pivotal adjustment includes a threaded thumbwheel adjuster
in the paired connector means adjacent to the rear face of the
connector framework of each stackable electronic sign of the
plurality of electronic signs.
11. The modular display system of claim 10, wherein the connector
means includes a pair of forward connector plates and a pair of
rearward connector plates on the top channel and a pair of forward
connector plate receptors and a pair of rearward connector plate
receptors on the bottom channel, and further wherein the rearward
connector plate receptors include means for "X" axis pivotal
adjustment by threaded thumbwheel adjusters, which threaded
thumbwheel adjusters control vertically movable threaded
shafts.
12. The modular display system of claim 11, wherein at least one
bevel is present on the top or bottom channel.
13. The modular display system of claim 6, wherein the slide pin
includes a tapered end.
14. The modular display system of claim 6, wherein the slide pin
includes an actuator shaft.
15. The modular display system of claim 14, wherein the actuator
shaft of the slide pin may be supported in an open retracted and
disengaged position and released to a closed, extended and engaged
position.
16. The modular display system of claim 1, wherein the latching
means include: (a) a side latch on either of the right side panel
or the left side panel; and, (b) a side latch keeper assembly on
the side panel opposite the side panel having the side latch.
17. The modular display system of claim 16, wherein the right and
left side panels further include means for assisting initial
alignment.
18. The modular display system of claim 17, wherein the latching
means further include means for "Y" axis adjustment between
horizontally latched connector frameworks.
19. The modular display system of claim 18, wherein the means for
"Y" axis adjustment includes a cam for vertically adjusting
horizontally latched connector frameworks along the "Y" axis.
20. The modular display system of claim 19, wherein the cam is
spring loaded to lock when not being manipulated.
21. The modular display system of claim 1, further comprising
mounting structure selected from the group consisting of a
suspension mount, a floor stand, and a ground stand.
22. A method of assembling a modular display system, comprising the
steps of: a. providing a plurality of stackable electronic display
panels, each stackable electronic display panel of the plurality of
stackable electronic display panels including: (1) an LED display
module; and, (2) a connector framework carrying the LED display
module, the connector framework having a top channel and a bottom
channel together having at least one connector means for vertical
securing to another stackable electronic display panel of the
plurality of stackable electronic display panels, and a right side
panel and a left side panel together having at least one latching
means thereon for horizontal securing to another stackable
electronic display panel of the plurality of stackable electronic
display panels, such that connector frameworks of the plurality of
stackable electronic display panels may be removably attached to
one another to bring the LED display modules carried by each into
closely aligned proximity to provide a substantially seamless
display; and, b. attaching the stackable electronic display panels
together to provide the substantially seamless display.
23. The method of assembling a modular display system of claim 22,
wherein the LED display module of each stackable electronic display
panel of the plurality of stackable electronic display panels is
carried on the connector framework by an LED display module
latching system, the latching system having a centrally located
actuator mechanism; and comprising the further step of assembling
the LED display modules to the connector frameworks.
24. The method of assembling a modular display system of claim 22,
wherein the connector means include: (a) a connector plate on
either of the top channel or the bottom channel; (b) a connector
plate receptor on the opposite channel from the connector plate;
and, (c) a slide pin for releasably capturing the connector plate
of one stackable electronic display panel of the plurality of
stackable electronic display panels within the connector plate
receptor of another associated vertically aligned stackable
electronic display panel of the plurality of stackable electronic
display panels; and further comprising the step of inserting a
connector plate in a connector plate receptor and capturing the
connector plate with the slide pin.
25. The method of assembling a modular display system of claim 22,
wherein the latching means include: (a) a side latch on either of
the right side panel or the left side panel; and, (b) a side latch
keeper assembly on the side panel opposite the side panel having
the side latch; and further comprising the step of engaging the
side latch keeper assembly of one connector framework with the side
latch keeper assembly of a horizontally adjoining connector
framework.
26. The method of assembling a modular display system of claim 25,
wherein the right and left side panels further include means for
assisting initial alignment and further comprising the step of
initially aligning the horizontal connector frameworks prior to
engaging the side latch.
27. A modular display system comprising: a. a plurality of suitably
sized individual stackable electronic display panels that can be
juxtaposingly stacked and aligned vertically, or juxtaposingly
placed and aligned side by side horizontally, or juxtaposingly
aligned and placed both vertically and horizontally, and that are
mutually securable together at locations on or near mutual
horizontal sides and vertical sides; b. rearwardly located
connector plate receptors and forwardly located connector plate
receptors of an upper stackable electronic display panel being
removably attachable to connector plates of a lower stackable
electronic display panel; and, c. side latches of one stackable
electronic display panel being engagable with adjustable cams of
side latch keeper assemblies of a horizontally adjacent stackable
electronic display panel to thereby offer stable and sturdy
connectibility for a vast arrangement of stackable electronic
display panels in a modular display system.
Description
CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This patent application is related to patent application
Ser. No. 10/688,304 entitled "Electronic Display Module Having a
Four-Point Latching System for Incorporation into an Electronic
Sign and Process", filed on Oct. 17, 2003, pending. This patent
application claims priority from the earlier filed U.S. Provisional
Application No. 60/647,268 filed Jan. 25, 2005, entitled
"Electronic Sign". The prior applications are hereby incorporated
into this application by reference as if fully set forth
herein.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] 1. Field of the Invention
[0003] The present invention relates to electronic sign displays,
but more specifically pertains to a modular display system which
favors portability by having a plurality of stackable electronic
display panels incorporated as modules which are mutually and
removably attached or secured to one another and to mounting
structures for the support thereof.
[0004] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0005] Prior art electronic sign displays can be of gigantic
proportion and are fashioned utilizing large and heavy structure
which requires heavy handling and positioning devices for
installation. Ordinarily, the use of such equipment is not a
concern where such electronic sign displays are installed on a
one-time permanent basis in a concert hall, auditorium or at a
stage setting. Entertainment venues of many sizes and varieties
often require electronic sign displays in cooperation with
entertainers, rock and roll performances, keynote speakers, bands,
orchestras and the like where installation of such electronic sign
displays is expensive and often cumbersome. Often the size or shape
of electronic sign displays is another factor in that sometimes
electronic sign displays are incompatible with doorways, halls and
other structural and available space aspects of smaller or older
entertainment venues. What is needed is an electronic sign display
system which can be handled and simply erected by one person and
which is of a suitable size and weight where accommodation and
installation of the electronic sign display system in almost any
size entertainment area, especially those having difficult access,
is readily accomplished. Such a display system is provided by the
present invention.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] The general purpose of the present invention is to provide a
modular display system including stackable electronic display
panels and mounting structure which is easily transported and
erected. The modular display system, the present invention,
includes a plurality of stackable electronic display panels each
removably attached with one or more adjacent stackable electronic
display panels to form a display. Each individual stackable
electronic display panel is constructed of a connector framework
and a light emitting diode (LED) display module attached thereto by
a mutually engaging centrally located LED display module latching
system. Each connector framework includes and utilizes connector
plates at the top of the connector framework, front connector plate
receptors at the bottom of the connector framework having
spring-loaded slide pins in alignment thereto, rear connector plate
receptors in rear connector assemblies including spring-loaded
slide pins and slide pin housings aligned thereto at the bottom and
rear of the connector framework, side latch assemblies, side latch
keeper assemblies each having an adjustment cam, a plurality of
spring-loaded ball detents and detent receptors, and other
components for removable attachment, alignment and juxtaposition of
adjacent stackable electronic display panels. Vertically stacked
stackable electronic display panels are attached utilizing the
plurality of connector plates along the top of the connector
framework in intimate contact and engagement with the front
connector plate receptors, the rear connector plate receptors, and
the associated spring-loaded slide pins, respectively, at the
bottom of another vertically situated overhead stackable electronic
display panel. Horizontally situated stackable electronic display
panels are connected using side latch assemblies and side latch
keeper assemblies having adjustment cams where a latch of each side
latch assembly of one stackable electronic display panel engages
the adjustable cam of each of the side latch keeper assemblies of
an adjacent stackable electronic display panel. Arrays of stackable
electronic display panels of various configurations can be
assembled where attachment occurs both along the horizontal and
vertical aspects of the stackable electronic display panels as just
described. Each stackable electronic display panel can be suitably
sized for handling by an individual where, for purposes of
illustration and example, each stackable electronic display panel
could measure 20 inches long by 20 inches wide. Provision is also
made for adjustment of each stackable electronic display panel with
respect to each other along more than one axis for best alignment
of each of the connector frameworks to each other in order to
seamlessly position the LED display modules.
[0007] According to an embodiment of the present invention, there
is provided a modular display system wherein a plurality of
suitably sized individual stackable electronic display panels can
be juxtaposingly stacked or aligned vertically or can be
juxtaposingly placed or aligned side by side horizontally or can be
juxtaposingly aligned and placed both vertically and horizontally
and mutually secured at locations on or near the mutual horizontal
sides or vertical sides of the stackable electronic display panels.
Rearwardly located connector plate receptors and forwardly located
connector plate receptors of an upper stackable electronic display
panel are removably attachable to connector plates of a lower
stackable electronic display panel and side latches of one
stackable electronic display panel engage adjustable cams of side
latch keeper assemblies of a horizontally adjacent stackable
electronic display panel the combination of which offers stable and
sturdy connectibility for a vast arrangement of stackable
electronic display panels in a modular display system.
[0008] One significant aspect and feature of the present invention
is the provision of a modular display system including stackable
electronic display panels and mounting structure for suspension,
floor mounting, or ground mounting.
[0009] Another significant aspect and feature of the present
invention is a modular display system which is comprised of
individual stackable connectible electronic display panels which
connect physically and electronically.
[0010] Still another significant aspect and feature of the present
invention is the provision of individual stackable electronic
display panels which are lightweight and of a suitable size for
handling and assembly by an individual.
[0011] Yet another significant aspect and feature of the present
invention is the provision of connector plates of a first stackable
electronic display panel which connect to forwardly located
connector plate receptors and to rearwardly located connector plate
receptors of a second stackable electronic display panel vertically
situated thereabove.
[0012] A further significant aspect and feature of the present
invention is the provision of precisely constructed but adjustable
planar panels or components adjustable for use along a plane to
provide for overall unwavering flat and planar alignment and
spacing of LED panels of LED display modules.
[0013] A further significant aspect and feature of the present
invention is the provision of alignment structure incorporated
between stackable electronic display panels.
[0014] A still further significant aspect and feature of the
present invention is the use of spring-loaded slide pins to engage
and secure connector plates within connector plate receptors.
[0015] Still another significant aspect and feature of the present
invention is the use of latches in one side panel of a connector
framework to engage adjustable cams in a side panel of an adjacent
connector framework to secure connector frameworks side by
side.
[0016] Still another significant aspect and feature of the present
invention is the use of latches in one side panel of a connector
framework to engage adjustable cams in a side panel of an adjacent
connector framework to provide for vertical adjustability of
adjacent connector frameworks with respect to each other vertically
along the "Y" axis.
[0017] Still another significant aspect and feature of the present
invention is the use of a thumbwheel arrangement to provide for
adjustable forward or rearward pivoting of connector frameworks
about the "X" axis.
[0018] Still another significant aspect and feature of the present
invention is the use of guide structure for alignment of adjustment
tools or actuator tools with side latch assemblies and with side
latch keeper assemblies.
[0019] Still another significant aspect and feature of the present
invention is the incorporation of sealing and other features to
eliminate EMI (electromagnetic interference).
[0020] Still another significant aspect and feature of the present
invention is the use of slots in a handle/cable management bracket
for use in cable management.
[0021] Having thus briefly described an embodiment of the present
invention and having mentioned some significant aspects and
features of the present invention, it is the principal object of
the present invention to provide a modular display system and
mounting structure.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0022] Other objects of the present invention and many of the
attendant advantages of the present invention will be readily
appreciated as the same becomes better understood by reference to
the following detailed description when considered in connection
with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals
designate like parts throughout the figures thereof and
wherein:
[0023] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a modular display system, the
present invention, including a plurality of stackable electronic
display panels, one form of mounting structure, a computer
controller, a video processor, a data distributor, and a remote
transportable power rack;
[0024] FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a screen composed of four
stackable electronic display panels;
[0025] FIG. 3 is an exploded rear view of a stackable electronic
display panel;
[0026] FIG. 4 is an exploded front view of a stackable electronic
display panel;
[0027] FIG. 5 is an exploded left rear view of a connector
framework;
[0028] FIG. 6 is an assembled left rear view of a connector
framework;
[0029] FIG. 7 is an assembled right rear view of a connector
framework;
[0030] FIG. 8 is an exploded left isometric view showing the
junction of a side panel and a bottom channel of a connector
framework and the relationship of components attached thereto;
[0031] FIG. 9 is an exploded right isometric view showing the
junction of a side panel and a bottom channel of a connector
framework and the relationship of components attached thereto;
[0032] FIG. 10 is a right isometric view of a portion of a
connector framework showing a side latch assembly aligned in and
secured within a segmented compartment thereof;
[0033] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a side latch keeper
assembly;
[0034] FIG. 12 is a side view of a side latch keeper assembly;
[0035] FIG. 13 is a left isometric view showing the junction of a
side panel and a top channel of a connector framework and the
relationship of components attached thereto;
[0036] FIG. 14 is a rear view of a stackable electronic display
panel showing the connector framework thereof in alignment with and
ready to be received by and secured to the LED display module
thereof;
[0037] FIG. 15 is a rear view of an assembled stackable electronic
display panel showing the aligned and secure mating of the
connector framework thereof to the LED display module thereof by
the use of the LED display module latch system;
[0038] FIG. 16 is a rear view showing the upper portion of the
connector framework of a first stackable electronic display panel
aligned with the lower portion of the connector framework of an
overhead second stackable electronic display panel;
[0039] FIG. 17 illustrates the mating of the upper portion of the
connector framework of a first stackable electronic display panel
with the lower portion of the connector framework of an overhead
second stackable electronic display panel and the alignment of the
first stackable electronic display panel with an adjacent third
stackable electronic display panel located at one side of the first
stackable electronic display panel;
[0040] FIG. 18 illustrates beveled surfaces included in the
geometrical configuration of the upper portion of the connector
framework of a first stackable electronic display panel in
distanced alignment with beveled surfaces included in the
geometrical configuration of the lower portion of the connector
framework of an overhead second stackable electronic display
panel;
[0041] FIG. 19 is a view like FIG. 18 but illustrating the upper
portion of the connector framework of the first stackable
electronic display panel in close alignment with the lower portion
of the connector framework of the overhead second stackable
electronic display panel;
[0042] FIG. 20 is a rear view of a screen incorporating a plurality
of stackable electronic display panels;
[0043] FIG. 21 is an exploded view showing two stackable electronic
display panels and mounting structure in the form of a suspension
mount;
[0044] FIG. 22 is an end view of a suspension mount showing the
interconnect sleeve thereof aligned within the spreader beam
thereof, and an attachment assembly thereof connected to the
spreader beam;
[0045] FIG. 23 is an exploded view of an attachment assembly;
[0046] FIG. 24 is a fragmentary front view in partial cross section
showing the capture of connector frameworks of adjacent stackable
electronic display panels in attachment assemblies of a suspension
mount;
[0047] FIG. 25 is a bottom view of an attachment assembly;
[0048] FIG. 26 is an exploded isometric view showing a screen
composed of four stackable electronic display panels and mounting
structure in the form of a floor stand;
[0049] FIG. 27 is an isometric view showing a plurality of
connected connector frameworks associated with mounting structure
in the form of a ground stand;
[0050] FIG. 28 is an exploded isometric view of the items shown in
FIG. 27;
[0051] FIG. 29 is a partially exploded view of a longitudinal
support assembly;
[0052] FIG. 30 is an isometric view of connected connector
frameworks and a ground stand incorporating the features of the
ground stand of FIG. 27 and including additional structure for
support of a large number of stackable electronic display panels of
which only the connector frameworks thereof are shown;
[0053] FIG. 31 is a plan view of one layout option of a modular
display system in which a single screen composed of ninety-six
stackable electronic display panels is utilized;
[0054] FIG. 32 is a plan view of another layout option of a modular
display system involving two screens each composed of forty-eight
stackable electronic display panels, the two screens being
controlled by individual computer controllers;
[0055] FIG. 33 is a plan view of yet another layout option of a
modular display system wherein four screens each composed of
twenty-four stackable electronic display panels are provided, each
screen being operated by a separate computer controller; and,
[0056] FIG. 34 is a plan view of still another layout option of a
modular display system involving four screens each composed of
twenty-four stackable electronic display panels, all four screens
in this example being controlled by a common computer
controller.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0057] FIG. 1 is a plan view of a modular display system 1, the
present invention, including a plurality of stackable electronic
display panels 2a-2n which are modular in design and which are
shown separated, mounting structure in the form of a plurality of
suspension mounts 3a-3n which are shown separated, a computer
controller 4, a video processor 5, a data distributor 6, and a
remote transportable power rack 7. Also included are a fiberoptic
cable 8 between the video processor 5 and the data distributor 6,
Cat-5 cables 9 from the data distributor 6 connecting the stackable
electronic display panels 2a-2n, and power cables 10 between the
remote transportable power rack 7 and the stackable electronic
display panels 2a-2n. The stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n
when in intimate contact and intimate connection form a screen, an
example of which is shown as screen 12 in FIG. 2.
[0058] FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a screen 12 composed of a
plurality of stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n, the
stackable electronic display panels 2b and 2c being shown stacked
on top of the stackable electronic display panels 2a and 2n. The
term stackable refers to placement of stackable electronic display
panels 2a-2n in vertical as well as horizontal juxtaposition for
the purpose of mutual connection therebetween along both the
vertical and horizontal aspects to provide for a suitably sized,
shaped, and aligned viewable sign. The stackable electronic display
panels 2a-2n are suitably and mutually secured by connector
assemblies and other latching structure, as later described in
detail. Although the stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n are
illustrated forming a square, other arrangements can be utilized.
One such arrangement could be just a row of stackable electronic
display panels 2a-2n. Another could be a column of stackable
electronic display panels 2a-2n. Another could be an arrangement of
stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n in a rectangle. Still
other arrangements could be portions of rows or columns of
stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n in combination or
incorporated to fit available space.
[0059] FIG. 3 is an exploded rear view and FIG. 4 is an exploded
front view of a stackable electronic display panel, each figure
showing a one-piece connector framework 14 and, in alignment
therewith, an LED (light emitting diode) display module 16. The LED
display module 16 includes a configured support panel 18 having
forwardly located components including a rear enclosure panel 20
having an anti-EMI (Electro Magnetic Interference) coating on the
inner and/or outer surfaces or other suitable combinations thereof,
a handle 21, a lower LED display assembly 22, and an upper LED
display assembly 24, the lower LED display assembly 22 and the
upper LED display assembly 24 being composed of like components.
The upper LED display assembly 24 is shown in exploded form and the
lower LED display assembly 22 is shown in assembled form. Numerous
components are located forward of the support panel 18, as now
described. Cables 26 (FIG. 3) are incorporated to electrically
connect the lower LED display assembly 22 and the upper LED display
assembly 24. One or more circuit boards, such as circuit board 28
(FIG. 3) are included in the lower and upper LED display assemblies
22 and 24 of the LED display module 16. The upper LED display
assembly 24 and the lower LED display assembly 22 each includes, in
alignment, an EMI shield gasket 30, a configured rectangular-shaped
frame 32 which receives the EMI shield gasket 30 about the
periphery thereof and which includes a weather seal gasket 34 also
about the periphery thereof and a continuous anti-EMI coated edge
36, an anti-EMI tape 38, an LED panel 40, and a louver panel 42
having a continuous weather seal about the outer periphery thereof.
A plate 44 is used to physically connect the lower LED display
assembly 22 and the upper LED display assembly 24. An anti-EMI
gasket 46 and a closely juxtaposed weather seal gasket 48 are
located about an opening at the lower rearward portion of the rear
enclosure panel 20 for accommodation of a heat sink 50. Also
located rearwardly of the support panel 18 as part of the LED
display module 16, and more specifically as part of the support
panel 18, is an LED display module latching system 52 (shown in
semi-exploded form) incorporated to removably attach the LED
display module 16 to the connector framework 14. The LED display
module latching system 52 includes a framework 54, a centrally
located actuator mechanism 56 which is accessible from the front or
the back, opposed actuator arms 58a and 58b extending in opposite
directions from and operated in opposing directions from and by the
actuator mechanism 56, and latch housings 60a and 60b at the outer
ends of the framework 54 housing pivotable latches 62a and 62b
which are pivotally operated by the outer ends of the actuator arms
58a and 58b, respectively. The pivotable latches 62a and 62b engage
catches 73 and 75 located at the forward edges of side panels 72
and 74 (FIGS. 5 and 7), respectively. The LED display module
latching system 52 is transversely located upon the rear of the
support panel 18 as shown in FIGS. 14 and 15 and is closely related
to patent application Ser. No. 10/688,304 entitled "Electronic
Display Module Having a Four-Point Latching System for
Incorporation into an Electronic Sign and Process" filed Oct. 17,
2003. A portion of the rear enclosure panel 20 serves as a mount
for accommodation of signal receptacles 64 and 66, a power
receptacle 68, and a diagnostic display 70, all of which are shown
in FIG. 3.
[0060] The one-piece connector framework 14 includes structurally
reinforced and lightweight vertically aligned and opposed side
panels 72 and 74 joined between the tops and bottoms thereof by
horizontally aligned and opposed top and bottom channels 76 and 78
the structure of which serves to provide various types and styles
of connection structure or for mounting of other connection
structure thereto. Such structure includes, but shall not be
limited to, configured connector plates, rearwardly located
connector assemblies including connector plate receptors, slide
pins and slide pin housings, forwardly located connector plate
receptors and slide pins, as well as side latch assemblies having
side latches, side latch keepers having an adjustable cam, a
plurality of spring-loaded ball detents and corresponding detent
holes, and other components for removable attachment and alignment
of the connector frameworks 14, and thus the LED display modules
16, along multiple axes and for juxtaposition of adjacent stackable
electronic display panels 2a-2n, as later described in detail.
[0061] A plurality of like alignment posts 80 (FIG. 3) extend
outwardly and rearwardly from the support panel 18 to be
accommodated in a corresponding plurality of alignment holes 82
residing in the forwardly located planar faces 84 and 86 of the
side panels 72 and 74, respectively, to aligningly locate and
position the forwardly located planar faces 84 and 86 of the side
panels 72 and 74 as well as the planar faces 88 and 90 of the top
channel 76 and the bottom channel 78 (i.e., the entire connector
framework 14) with and against the rearward facing region of the
support panel 18 of the LED display module 16, such as is shown in
FIG. 15. The connector frameworks 14, each preferably of one-piece
aluminum or, alternatively, of sturdy molded plastic having an
anti-EMI coating, serve as alignable and sturdy structures for
removable attachment of the stackable electronic display panels
2a-2n. In the alternative, certain other components could be
fashioned of sturdy molded plastic and would require an anti-EMI
coating for the suppression of EMI. The connector frameworks 14
removably attach to one another to bring the LED display modules 16
of each of the stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n into
closely aligned proximity to provide a substantially seamless
display, as shown in FIG. 2.
[0062] Also included as structure of the connector framework 14 are
vertically oriented connector plates 92, 94, 96 and 98 located at
the tops of the side panels 72 and 74, each connector plate 92, 94,
96 and 98 having an arcuate top. Located at the bottoms of the side
panels 72 and 74, respectively, are front connector plate receptors
100 and 102 and rearwardly located connector assemblies 104 and
106. Connector assemblies 104 and 106 also include rear connector
plate receptors 108 and 110 and slide pin housings 112 and 114
(FIG. 3), respectively. Spring-loaded slide pins are associated
with the front connector plate receptors 100 and 102 and the rear
connector plate receptors 108 and 110 for capture of the connector
plates 92, 94, 96 and 98, as described later in detail. A
horizontally aligned handle/cable management bracket 116 extends
along and behind the top channel 76 and between the top regions of
the side panels 72 and 74 and includes multi-purpose obliquely
oriented slots 118 and 120. The slots 118 and 120 can function as
handholds, can also function as cable conduits, or can be used with
attachment devices for maintaining orderly control of
interconnecting cables between stackable electronic display panels
2a-2n or cables connecting the stackable electronic display panels
2a-2n to external devices, such as, but not limited to, computer
control components.
[0063] FIG. 5 is an exploded left rear view of a connector
framework 14. FIG. 6 is an assembled left rear view of a connector
framework 14. FIG. 7 is an assembled right rear view of a connector
framework 14. With reference to FIGS. 5, 6 and 7, singularly or in
combination, or with reference to other figures, other components
and features of the invention are now further described.
[0064] Aligned attachment of multiple connector frameworks 14 of
the stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n along the vertical
aspect is accomplished by the use of components located at or near
the intersections of the side panels 72 and 74 with the top and
bottom channels 76 and 78, respectively, at the upper and lower
regions of the side panels 72 and 74. More specifically, a
vertically oriented front connector plate mounting slot 122 and a
vertically oriented back connector plate mounting slot 124 are
located at the upper end of the side panel 72, and a vertically
oriented front connector plate mounting slot 126 and a vertically
oriented back connector plate mounting slot 128 are located at the
upper end of the side panel 74, each mounting slot having suitably
located sets of threaded holes extending therethrough for securing
of the connector plates 92, 94, 96 and 98, respectively, thereto
and therein, as shown later in detail. The connector plates 92, 94,
96 and 98 include engagement holes 92a, 94a, 96a and 98a,
respectively, for subsequent engagement of spring-loaded slide
pins, as described later in detail. At the lower region of the side
panel 72, the front connector plate receptor 100 includes a
vertically oriented front connector plate receptor slot 130, and at
the lower region of the side panel 74, the front connector plate
receptor 102 includes a vertically oriented front connector plate
receptor slot 132. Attached to the lower region of the side panel
72 is the connector assembly 104 having multiple structures
including the rear connector plate receptor 108 which has a
vertically oriented rear connector plate receptor slot 134.
Attached to the lower region of the side panel 74 is the connector
assembly 106 having multiple structures including the rear
connector plate receptor 110 which has a vertically oriented rear
connector plate receptor slot 136. A front spring-loaded slide pin
assembly 138 is located in and aligns in structure at one end of
the bottom channel 78 in suitable alignment with the front
connector plate receptor 100 and front connector plate receptor
slot 130, and a rear spring-loaded slide pin assembly 140 is
located in the slide pin housing 112 in suitable alignment with the
rear connector plate receptor 108 and rear connector plate receptor
slot 134. Correspondingly, a front spring-loaded slide pin assembly
142 is located in and aligns in structure at the other end of the
bottom channel 78, generally in suitable alignment with the front
connector plate receptor 102 and front connector plate receptor
slot 132, as partially shown, and a rear spring-loaded slide pin
assembly 144 is located in the slide pin housing 114 in suitable
alignment with the rear connector plate receptor 110 and rear
connector plate receptor slot 136. Connection of the connector
assemblies 104 and 106 to the lower structure of the side panels 72
and 74 includes adjustable features to provide for pivotal
positioning of the lower end of the connector framework 14 and
attached components forwardly or rearwardly about the "X" axis.
Side latch assemblies 146 and 148 mount in segmented compartments
150 and 152 (FIG. 7), respectively, in the side panel 72, and side
latch keeper assemblies 154 and 156 mount in segmented compartments
158 and 160 (FIGS. 5 and 6), respectively, in the side panel 74 to
connect horizontally situated connector frameworks 14 and to offer
positioning of the connector frameworks 14 and attached components
vertically along the "Y" axis, as later described in detail. Also
located in and secured within the geometrically configured
structure of the side panel 72 are spring-loaded ball detents 162a,
162b and 162c (FIG. 7) which assist in initial alignment of the
side panel 72 of one connector framework 14 to detent holes 164a,
164b and 164c (FIG. 5) of the side panel 74 of an adjacently
located connector framework 14. With respect to vertically situated
connector frameworks 14, spring-loaded ball detents 166a and 166b
are located in and secured within the geometrically configured
structure of the top channel 76 which assist in initial alignment
of the top channel 76 of a connector framework 14 to detent holes
(not shown) of the bottom channel 78 of another connector framework
14 located thereabove. Threaded holes 167 and 169 are included at
the rear of the side panel 72 and threaded holes 171 and 173 are
included at the rear of the side panel 74 for mounting of the
stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n to a mounting surface, as
desired.
[0065] FIGS. 8 and 9 are exploded left and right isometric views
showing the junction of the side panel 72 and the bottom channel 78
of a connector framework 14 and the relationship of components
attached to and utilized therewith. The structure and method of
attachment of the connector assembly 104 allows for adjustable
attachment to the lower region of the side panel 72 using tongue
and groove style geometry coupled with adjustable hardware to
facilitate pivotal alignmental actuation of the connector framework
14 and associated components about the "X" axis. One lower portion
of the side panel 72 includes a horizontally oriented tongue 168
which aligns to and which is adjustably actuated vertically within
a horizontally oriented groove 170 at the top of the connector
assembly 104. Mutual fixation of and actuation of the side panel 72
with respect to the connector assembly 104 is facilitated by the
use of a threaded shaft 172, a thumbwheel adjuster 174, and other
hardware and features. The threaded shaft 172 extends through a
hole 176 in an extended portion of the lower region of the side
panel 72 and through a portion of the tongue 168, and is affixed
therein by a nut 178, preferably an acorn nut, at the top of the
threaded shaft 172 and another nut 180 in a recess 182 located in
close proximity to the tongue 168. The lower portion of the
threaded shaft 172 extends through and below the general structure
of the tongue 168 to pass through a series of vertically aligned
body holes 184 located below the groove 170, through a threaded
hole 186 at the center of the thumbwheel adjuster 174, and finally
into the bottommost of the series of vertically aligned body holes
184 being located in the connector assembly 104 at a position just
below the thumbwheel adjuster 174. An interrupted slot 188 in
horizontal orientation in the connector assembly 104 provides for
locating of and rotational access to the thumbwheel adjuster 174
and also provides opposed upper and lower bearing surfaces for
intimate adjustmental contact with the upper and lower surfaces of
the thumbwheel adjuster 174. The thumbwheel adjuster 174, which is
shown in place in FIG. 7, includes spaced holes 189 about the
periphery for accommodation of an adjustment tool. The interaction
of the thumbwheel adjuster 174 and threaded shaft 172 with the
interrupted slot 188 provides for screw jack actuation of the
connector assembly 104 with respect to the side panel 72, whereby
the tongue 168 is actuated vertically with respect to the groove
170. More specifically, the interaction of the thumbwheel adjuster
174 and threaded shaft 172 provides for screw jack actuation of the
connector assembly 104 with respect to the side panel 72 about
portions of the front spring-loaded slide pin assembly 138.
Correspondingly, another threaded shaft 172, another nut 178,
another nut 180, and another thumbwheel adjuster 174 are provided
and similarly utilized at the lower portion of the side panel
74.
[0066] The front spring-loaded slide pin assembly 138 includes a
slide pin 190 having a taper at one end, an actuator shaft 192
secured to and extending from the slide pin 190, a knob 194 at the
outboard end of the actuator shaft 192, a pin 196 extending through
and beyond the circumference at opposing locations of the slide pin
190, and a spring 198 located about the slide pin 190 and contained
thereupon by the pin 196 and structure described later in
detail.
[0067] Correspondingly as shown in FIG. 5, the front spring-loaded
slide pin assembly 142 includes a slide pin 190a having a taper at
one end, an actuator shaft 192a secured to and extending from the
slide pin 190a, a knob 194a at the outboard end of the actuator
shaft 192a, a pin 196a extending through and beyond the
circumference at opposing locations of the slide pin 190a, and a
spring 198a located about the slide pin 190a and contained
thereupon by the pin 196a and structure described later in
detail.
[0068] Structure in the bottom channel 78 and structure in the
front connector plate receptor 100 functions as a mount and for
interaction with the front spring-loaded slide pin assembly 138
which is positionable therein to a closed or "engaged" position to
lockingly and connectingly engage a connector plate, such as
connector plate 92, of one of a vertically situated stackable
electronic display panel 2a-2n located below. Such structure
includes a vertically aligned inwardly located panel 200 vertically
spanning the interior of the bottom channel 78 having an arcuate
surface 202 exceeding 180.degree. for accommodation of the slide
pin 190, and an access slot 204 intersecting the arcuate surface
202. Another structure is a vertically aligned outwardly located
panel 206 vertically spanning the interior of the bottom channel 78
having an arcuate surface 208 and intersecting slot 210, whereby
the outwardly located panel 206 is incorporated for intimate
contact with the inboard end of the spring 198 and whereby the
arcuate surface 208 and the slot 210 accommodate the slide pin 190.
Other structure includes an inboard hole 212 extending through the
inwardly located portion of the front connector plate receptor 100
(FIG. 8) and an outboard hole 214 extending through the outwardly
located portion of the front connector plate receptor 100 (FIG. 9).
The arcuate surface 202 and the inboard hole 212 always provide
support for the slide pin 190 when the tapered end of the slide pin
190 is retracted from the front connector plate receptor slot 130
toward the open or "disengaged" position. The outboard hole 214
supplies full support for the tapered end of the slide pin 190 when
the tapered end of the slide pin 190 is positioned just beyond the
front connector plate receptor slot 130 in the "engaged" position.
One end of the spring 198 is contained on the slide pin 190 by the
pin 196 and the other end of the spring 198 is contained on the
slide pin 190 by impingement with the portion of the outwardly
located panel 206 surrounding the arcuate surface 208. Such
capturing of the spring 198 on the slide pin 190 maintains
outwardly directed force upon the slide pin 190 to attempt to
maintain the slide pin 190 in the "engaged" position; i.e., the
position utilized for engaged capture of a connector plate such as
connector plate 92. During such an "engaged" position, a greater
portion of the actuator shaft 192 extending from the slide pin 190
is positionally located between the inwardly located panel 200 and
the outwardly located panel 206, and the slide pin 190 is forcibly
urged to maintain the "engaged" position by action of the spring
198. Provision is made for positioning and maintaining the front
spring-loaded slide pin assembly 138 to the open or "disengaged"
position so that unencumbered capture of a connector plate such as
connector plate 92 can be easily and readily accomplished without
interference. Such positioning is accomplished by ensuring that the
actuator shaft 192 has been maneuvered through the access slot 204
which intersects the arcuate surface 202 to a position inward of
the inwardly located panel 200 and then toggling the actuator shaft
192 either upwardly or downwardly and then releasing the knob 194
to allow the action of the compressed spring 198 to force the
actuator shaft 192 to contact the inwardly located panel 200 to
cause the slide pin 190 to remain "disengaged" as positioned.
Positioning of the front spring-loaded slide pin 190 to the closed
or "engaged" position is readily and easily accomplished by
reorienting the actuator shaft 192 to realign with the access slot
204 to allow the force of the compressed spring 198 to forcibly
urge the tapered end of the slide pin 190 fully through the front
connector plate receptor slot 130 and the front connector plate
receptor 100, as well as through an engagement hole 92a of the
connector plate 92 for suitable capture thereto. The front
spring-loaded slide pin assembly 142 functions in a similar and
corresponding manner.
[0069] The rear spring-loaded slide pin assembly 140 is constructed
and functions much in the same manner as the front spring-loaded
slide pin assembly 138. The rear spring-loaded slide pin assembly
140 includes a slide pin 216 having a taper at one end, an actuator
shaft 218 secured to and extending from the slide pin 216, a knob
220 at the outboard end of the actuator shaft 218, a pin 222
extending through and beyond the circumference at opposing
locations of the slide pin 216, and a spring 224 located about the
slide pin 216 and contained thereupon by the pin 222 and structure
described later in detail.
[0070] The rear spring-loaded slide pin assembly 144 shown in FIG.
5 includes a slide pin 216a having a taper at one end, an actuator
shaft 218a secured to and extending from the slide pin 216a, a knob
220a at the outboard end of the actuator shaft 218a, a pin 222a
extending through and beyond the circumference at opposing
locations of the slide pin 216a, and a spring 224a located about
the slide pin 216a and contained thereupon by the pin 222a and
structure described later in detail. The rear spring-loaded slide
pin assembly 140 and the rear spring-loaded slide pin assembly 144
function in a similar and corresponding manner.
[0071] The slide pin housing 112 includes a vertically oriented
inwardly located panel 226 having opposed upper and lower arcuate
surfaces 228a and 228b, a front access slot 230 and a rear access
slot 232, each intersecting the opposed arcuate surfaces 228a and
228b, and a vertically oriented first intermediate panel 234 having
a hole 236 extending therethrough. A vertically oriented second
intermediate panel 238 being part of the rear connector plate
receptor 108 and having a hole 240 extending therethrough, and a
vertically oriented outwardly located panel 242 being part of the
rear connector plate receptor 108 and having an outboard hole 244
extending therethrough are incorporated for support of the slide
pin 216.
[0072] The arcuate surfaces 228a and 228b and the holes 236 and 240
always provide support for the slide pin 216 when the slide pin 216
is retracted from the rear connector plate receptor slot 134. The
outboard hole 244 also supplies full support for the tapered end of
the slide pin 216 when the tapered end of slide pin 216 is
positioned just beyond the rear connector plate receptor slot 134.
One end of the spring 224 is contained on the slide pin 216 by the
pin 222 and the other end of the spring 224 is contained on the
slide pin 216 by impingement with the portion of the first
intermediate panel 234 surrounding the hole 236. Such capturing of
the spring 224 on the slide pin 216 maintains outwardly directed
force upon the slide pin 216 to attempt to maintain the slide pin
216 in the "engaged" position; i.e., the position utilized for
engagement of a connector plate such as connector plate 94. During
such an "engaged" position, a greater portion of the actuator shaft
218 extending from the slide pin 216 is positionally located
between the inwardly located panel 226 and the first intermediate
panel 234, and the slide pin 216 is forcibly urged to maintain the
"engaged" position by action of the spring 224. Provision is made
for positioning and maintaining of the rear spring-loaded slide pin
assembly 140 to the open or "disengaged" position so that
unencumbered capture of a connector plate, such as connector plate
94, can be easily and readily accomplished without interference.
Such positioning is accomplished by ensuring that the actuator
shaft 218 has been maneuvered through either front or rear access
slots 230 or 232 which intersect the arcuate surfaces 228a and 228b
to a position inward of the inwardly located panel 226 and then
toggling the actuator shaft 218 either upwardly or downwardly and
then releasing the knob 194 to allow the action of the compressed
spring 224 to force the actuator shaft 218 to contact the inwardly
located panel 226 to cause the slide pin 216 to remain "disengaged"
as positioned. Positioning of the rear spring-loaded slide pin
assembly 140 to the closed or "engaged" position is readily and
easily accomplished by reorienting the actuator shaft 218 to
realign with either of the front or rear access slots 230 or 232 to
allow the force of the compressed spring 224 to forcibly urge the
tapered end of slide pin 216 fully through the outwardly located
hole 244 and the rear connector plate receptor 108 and through an
engagement hole 94a of the connector plate 94 for suitable capture
thereto by incorporating the "engaged" position of the slide pin
216. The front spring-loaded slide pin assembly 142, the rear
spring-loaded slide pin assembly 144, and the connector assembly
106 are mirror image-like components of the front spring-loaded
slide pin assembly 138, the rear spring-loaded slide pin assembly
140, and the connector assembly 104 having similarly constructed
components in mirror image form having the same function and
utilization.
[0073] Side latch assemblies 146 and 148 mount in segmented
compartments 150 and 152 (FIG. 7), respectively, in the side panel
72, and side latch keeper assemblies 154 and 156 mount in segmented
compartments 158 and 160 (FIGS. 5 and 6), respectively, in the side
panel 74 for mutual connection and interaction to connect
horizontally situated connector frameworks 14 and associated
components and to offer positioning of the connector frameworks 14
and associated components vertically along the "Y" axis. The side
latch assemblies 146 and 148 are similar in construction having
similarly designated components for use in either of the segmented
compartments 150 or 152. With reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, side
latch assembly 148 is now described. The lower side latch assembly
148 includes a bracket 246 suitable for mounting within the
segmented compartment 152. An operating shaft 248 having a
rearwardly facing tool receptor 250 extends through the opposed
sides 252 and 254 of the bracket 246 for pivotal actuation therein.
A latch 256, preferably having a hook shape, is located between the
sides 252 and 254 and is attached over and about the operating
shaft 248 and is positioned by the operating shaft 248 about the
axis of the operating shaft 248. Additionally, an indicator tab 258
secures to and extends inwardly from the rearwardly located portion
of the operating shaft 248 for viewable accommodation by one of a
number of slots 260 located in the side panel 72. Individual
indicator tabs 258 are viewable through the slots 260 when
individual operating shafts 248 each has been rotated to the
position where the latch 256 engages a cam 280 (FIG. 11) of an
adjacent side latch keeper assembly 154 to thereby verify the
locked position of the latches 256. Each of the segmented
compartments 150 and 152 includes a notched panel 262 for
accommodation of the operating shaft 258, as well as opposed angled
guide panels 264 and 266 extending in perpendicular fashion from
the side panel 72. Although the opposed guide panels 264 and 266
are shown as being planar, they can be of any suitable geometrical
shape to offer tool guidance therebetween to align a suitable
adjustment tool, such as a hex-head wrench for example, with the
tool receptor 250 of each of the side latch assemblies 146 and 148
installed within the segmented compartments 150 and 152, such as
generally shown in FIG. 10. A plurality of access holes 268 are
located extending through the side panel 72 for insertion of a
suitable adjustment tool for actuation of the side latch assemblies
146 and 148. FIG. 10 shows the side latch assembly 146 aligned in
and secured within the angled segmented compartment 150 in the same
fashion that the side latch assembly 148 is aligned in and secured
within the segmented compartment 152. Illustrated in particular is
the alignment of the tool receptor 250 in the side latch assembly
146 with the guide panels 264 and 266 and the upper access hole
268.
[0074] FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the side latch receptor
assembly 154, and FIG. 12 is a side view of the side latch keeper
assembly 154. The side latch keeper assemblies 154 and 156 are
similar in construction having similarly designated components for
use in either of the segmented compartments 158 or 160, as shown in
FIG. 6. The side latch receptor assembly 154 includes a bracket 270
having opposed sides 272 and 274. An operating shaft 276, part of
which includes a hexagonal exterior 278 and part of which is the
cam 280, extends through a hexagonal hole 282 in the side 272 and a
body hole 284 in the side 274 of the bracket 270, respectively, for
pivotal actuation therein. A rearwardly facing tool receptor 285 is
included at one end of the operating shaft 276. A spring clip 286
engages one end of the operating shaft 276 adjacent to the
outwardly located surface of the side 274, and a spring 288 aligns
over and about one end of the operating shaft 276 between the side
274 and an annular shoulder 290 located at one end of the cam 280
to spring load the operating shaft 276 in a direction outwardly
from the bracket 270. Such outwardly directed force causes a
portion of the hexagonal exterior 278 of the operating shaft 276 to
lockingly engage the hexagonal hole 282 in the side 272 to maintain
the last rotational orientation of the cam 280. A groove 292
interrupts the hexagonal exterior 278 of the operating shaft 276 at
a location near the hexagonal hole 282 to facilitate rotational
adjustment of the cam 280 for interaction with the side latch
assembly, such as side latch assembly 146 of one of the adjacent
stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n, for vertical positional
adjustment along the "Y" axis. Rotational adjustment of the cam 280
is initiated by the use of a suitable adjustment tool, such as a
hex-head wrench for example, with the tool receptor 285 to forcibly
position the operating shaft 276 against the force of the spring
288 to disengage the hexagonal exterior 278 of the operating shaft
276 from intimate contact and influence with the hexagonal hole 282
in the side 272. In such a maneuver, the groove 292 is positioned
within the hexagonal hole 282, thereby permitting adjustable
rotation of the operating shaft 276 and the cam 280 to a new
position. When the desired rotation is achieved for proper
alignment, the adjustment tool is removed, thereby allowing spring
action to reposition the operating shaft 276 to cause re-engagement
and locking of the portion of the hexagonal exterior 278 located
inwardly from the groove 292 of the operating shaft 276 with the
hexagonal hole 282.
[0075] FIG. 13 is a left isometric view showing the junction of the
side panel 74 and the top channel 76 and the relationship of
components attached to and utilized therewith. Shown in particular
is the segmented compartment 158 for accommodation of the side
latch keeper assembly 154. The segmented compartment 160 is similar
in construction and includes similarly designated components.
[0076] Each of the segmented compartments 158 and 160 includes a
notched panel 294 for accommodation of the operating shaft 276, as
well as opposed angled guide panels 296 and 298 extending in
perpendicular fashion from the side panel 74. Although the opposed
guide panels 296 and 298 are shown as being planar, they can be of
any suitable geometrical shape to offer tool guidance therebetween
to align a suitable adjustment tool, such as a hex-head wrench for
example, with the tool receptors 285 installed in each of the side
latch keeper assemblies 154 and 156 within the segmented
compartments 158 and 160, such as generally shown in FIG. 6. A
plurality of access holes 300 (FIG. 5) are located extending
through the side panel 74 for insertion of a tool for actuation of
the side latch keeper assemblies 154 and 156.
[0077] FIG. 14 is a rear view of the stackable electronic display
panel 2a showing the connector framework 14 thereof in alignment
with and ready to be received by and secured to the LED display
module 16 thereof by action of the previously described LED display
module latching system 52.
[0078] FIG. 15 is a rear view of the assembled stackable electronic
display panel 2a showing the aligned and secure mating of the
connector framework 14 thereof to the LED display module 16 thereof
by the use of the LED display module latching system 52. Latching
is accomplished by operating the actuator mechanism 56 to operate
the actuator arms 58a and 58b, and thereby cause the pivotal
latches 62a and 62b (FIG. 3) to engage the catches 73 and 75 (FIGS.
3 and 5), respectively.
[0079] Mode of Operation
[0080] The mode of operation is set forth primarily with reference
to FIGS. 16-20 with occasional reference to previously described
figures. Additional information regarding electronic control and
operation using V-Tours computer controller 4, a V-Link.RTM. video
processor 5, a data distributor 6, a remote transportable power
rack 7, cabling, and the like is included later with reference to
FIGS. 31-34 showing exemplary options in which the modular display
system can be configured.
[0081] FIG. 16 is a rear view showing the upper portion of the
connector framework 14 associated with a stackable electronic
display panel 2a aligned with the lower portion of the connector
framework 14 associated with an overhead stackable electronic
display panel 2b. For purposes of brevity and clarity, the rear
enclosure panels 20 and other closely associated components are not
shown. FIG. 16 shows the connector plates 92, 94, 96 and 98 at the
upper portion of the connector framework 14 associated with the
stackable electronic display panel 2a in vertically spaced
alignment with the front connector plate receptor slot 130 of the
front connector plate receptor 100, the rear connector plate
receptor slot 134 of the connector assembly 104, the front
connector plate receptor slot 132 of the front connector plate
receptor 102, and the rear connector plate receptor slot 136 of the
connector assembly 106 of the connector framework 14 associated
with the overhead stackable electronic display panel 2b, where the
connector framework 14 associated with the overhead stackable
electronic display panel 2b awaits subsequent and mutual mated and
removable attachment to the underlying connector framework 14
associated with the stackable electronic display panel 2a. Although
the connector frameworks 14 are not shown in close intimate
juxtaposed contact, the operable components thereof are shown in
the positions required for secure mutual attachment to one another
along the vertical aspect. The functions and relationships of the
connector plates 92 and 94 with respect to the front connector
plate receptor 100 and associated components and the connector
assembly 104 and associated components are identical to the
functions and relationships of the connector plates 96 and 98 with
respect to the front connector plate receptor 102 and associated
components and the connector assembly 106 and associated
components, and as such the description of the function of the
components of the connector plates 92 and 94 with respect to the
front connector plate receptor 100 and associated components and
the connector assembly 104 and associated components
correspondingly applies to the function of the connector plates 96
and 98 in association with the front connector plate receptor 102
and associated components and the connector assembly 106 and
associated components. Prior to mutual mating and removable
attachment of the connector framework 14 associated with the
overhead stackable electronic display panel 2b to the connector
framework 14 associated with the stackable electronic display panel
2a, the slide pins 190 and 216 of the front spring-loaded slide pin
assembly 138 and the rear spring-loaded slide pin assembly 140,
respectively, and the slide pins 190a and 216a of the front
spring-loaded slide pin assembly 142 and the rear spring-loaded
slide pin assembly 144 are positioned to the "disengaged" position,
as previously described, awaiting further positioning for capturing
of the connector plates 92, 94, 96 and 98. The connector frameworks
14 of stackable electronic display panel 2a and the overhead
stackable electronic display panel 2b are brought into intimate
contact by bringing the spring-loaded ball detents 166a-166b on the
top surface of the top channel 76 of the stackable electronic
display panel 2a into alignment with detent holes (not shown) on
the bottom surface of the bottom channel 78 of the overhead
stackable electronic display panel 2b, as well as intimate contact
involving the mutual and respective alignment of the connector
plates 92, 94, 96 and 98 with the front connector plate receptor
slot 130 of the front connector plate receptor 100, the rear
connector plate receptor slot 134 of the connector assembly 104,
the front connector plate receptor slot 132 of the front connector
plate receptor 102, and the rear connector plate receptor slot 136
of the connector assembly 106 of the overhead stackable electronic
display panel 2b. Then, slide pins 190 and 216 of the front
spring-loaded slide pin assembly 138 and the rear spring-loaded
slide pin assembly 140, respectively, and the slide pins 190a and
216a of the front spring-loaded slide pin assembly 142 and the rear
spring-loaded slide pin assembly 144 are positioned to the
"engaged" position, as previously described, to extend through the
engagement holes 92a, 94a, 96a and 98a of the connector plates 92,
94, 96 and 98 and other structure, thereby completing
capturing.
[0082] FIG. 17 illustrates the mating of the upper portion of the
connector framework 14 of a stackable electronic display panel 2a
with the lower portion of the connector framework 14 of an overhead
stackable electronic display panel 2b and the alignment of the
stackable electronic display panel 2a with an adjacent stackable
electronic display panel 2n located at one side of the stackable
electronic display panel 2a. Shown in particular is the use of the
rear spring-loaded slide pin assembly 144 with the connector plate
98 and the use of the rear spring-loaded slide pin assembly 140
with the connector plate 94, as previously described. The slide pin
190a of the front spring-loaded slide pin assembly 142, shown in
other figures, engages the connector plate 96, and the slide pin
190 of the front spring-loaded slide pin assembly 138 engages the
connector plate 92 in a similar manner, as previously described.
The relationship of the slide latch assemblies 146 and 148 each
having a latch 256 in the stackable electronic display panel 2a to
the slide latch keeper assemblies 154 and 156 in the adjacent
stackable electronic display panel 2n is also shown. The latches
256 engage the cams 280 of the slide latch keeper assemblies 154
and 156. Subsequent adjustment of the cams 280 utilizing the
operating shafts 276 causes interaction with the latches 256 for
vertical adjustment of adjacent connector frameworks 14 and thus of
stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n to bring the edges of
adjacent stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n into alignment
to provide for seamless viewing of the LED pixels.
[0083] FIG. 18 illustrates beveled surfaces included in the
geometrical configuration of the upper portion of the connector
framework 14 of a stackable electronic display panel 2a in
distanced alignment with the lower portion of the connector
framework 14 of an overhead stackable electronic display panel 2b
having opposed complementary beveled surfaces, wherein
adjustability about the junction of the mated connector plate 96
and slide pin 190a of the front spring-loaded slide pin assembly
142, shown in FIG. 19 (and about the junction of the mated
connector plate 92 and slide pin 190 of the front spring-loaded
slide pin assembly 138), is provided to facilitate rotational
adjustment of the stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n about
the "X" axis (forward and rearward tilt) by actuation of the
thumbwheel adjusters 174 along the threaded shafts 172. The profile
of the front connector plate receptor 102 includes adjacent and
opposed bevels 302 and 304 which extend along the bottom surface of
the bottom channel 78 to and including the front connector plate
receptor 100. The profile of the upper portion of the side panel 74
includes opposed bevels 306 and 308 opposing the bevels 302 and 304
and extending along the top surface of the top channel 76 to and
including the upper portion of the side panel 72. The bevel 308
starts at the upper portion of the side panel 74 in close proximity
to the connector plate 96 and is interrupted to further continue at
the upper portion of the side panel 74 in close proximity to the
connector plate 98.
[0084] FIG. 19 is a view like FIG. 18 but illustrating the upper
portion of the connector framework 14 of the stackable electronic
display panel 2a in close alignment with the lower portion of the
connector framework 14 of the overhead stackable electronic display
panel 2b.
[0085] FIG. 20 is a rear view of a screen 12 incorporating a
plurality of stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n. In addition
to mated and secured attachment along the vertical aspect as
previously described, juxtapositional mating and secured attachment
along the horizontal aspect is also provided. For example, the side
panel 72 of the stackable electronic display panel 2a can be
juxtaposingly aligned to the side panel 74 of the stackable
electronic display panel 2n with the assisted guidance offered by
the detent holes 164a-164c of the side panel 74 of the stackable
electronic display panel 2n and the corresponding spring-loaded
ball detents 162a-162c of the side panel 72 of the stackable
electronic display panel 2a. For example and illustration, the
latches 256 on the side panel 72 of the stackable electronic
display panel 2a are actuated to engage the cams 280 on the side
panel 74 of the stackable electronic display panel 2n. Thus, the
stackable electronic display panels 2a and 2n are juxtapositionally
mated in secured attachment along the horizontal aspect and can be
adjusted, as previously described, in a vertical fashion to provide
alignment between the stackable electronic display panels
2a-2n.
[0086] A plurality of stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n can
be aligned, mated and attached along the vertical and horizontal
aspects, as described. Overall integrity along the vertical aspect
is enhanced by the robustness of the connector plates 92, 94, 96
and 98 and the robustness of the front connector plate receptors
100 and 102 and the connector assemblies 104 and 106 as well as the
interlocking capabilities thereof where each of the corners; i.e.,
the connector plates 92, 94, 96 and 98, are mutually attached to
the front connector plate receptors 100 and 102 and connector
assemblies 104 and 106 of a vertically situated overhead stackable
electronic display panel 2a-2n utilizing multiple positive locking
schemes. Aligned attached mating along the horizontal aspect
incorporating the relationship of the latches 256 and the cams 280
located in the side panels 72 and 74 incorporated with the attached
mating along the horizontal aspect incorporating the connector
plates 92, 94, 96 and 98, the front connector plate receptors 100
and 102, and connector assemblies 104 and 106 provides a
synergistic structure having alignment capabilities coupled with
structural robustness.
[0087] The stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n are
interconnected by cables which utilize the signal receptacles 64
and 66 on the rear enclosure panel 20 and are connected to
computerized control systems known to the art to control the
content displayed utilizing the modular display system 1.
Optionally, the modular display system 1 can include border
attachment points, rails, frames, and the like, and the stackable
electronic display panels 2a-2n can be suspended or supported from
the bottom by suitable mounting structure. Although the stackable
electronic display panels 2a-2n are shown as squares, other
suitable shapes, such as a rectangle, may be utilized. The
teachings of the invention may be utilized to provide structure for
support of incandescent lighting, flat panel displays, LCD
displays, graphic nonelectrical displays, or displays of other
types.
[0088] Mounting Structures
[0089] FIG. 21 is an exploded view showing two stackable electronic
display panels 2a and 2b and mounting structure in the form of a
suspension mount 3a such as for attaching to a structural member of
a building, to a structural member of a stage or stadium, or to
other like structural members. One or more spreader beams 310,
often referred to as bumpers, are utilized as shown to provide
suspended mounting incorporating cables, chains, or the like of a
plurality of stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n, such as the
stackable electronic display panels 2a and 2b shown. A plurality of
like reversible geometry attachment assemblies 312a-312n slidingly
engage the lower region of the spreader beam 310. The attachment
assemblies 312a-312n accommodate removable attachment to the
connector plates 92, 94, 96 and 98 of the stackable electronic
display panels 2a-2b. Additionally, another row of stackable
electronic display panels in the plurality of stackable electronic
display panels 2a-2n, such as stackable electronic display panels
2c-2n, could attach to the lower portion of the stackable
electronic display panels 2a and 2b in removable attachment, as
previously described, as well as additional rows therebelow.
Horizontally situated stackable electronic display panels could
also be connected thereto, as previously described. An interconnect
sleeve 314 is used to connect adjacent spreader beams 310 for
additional breadth of display where additional stackable electronic
display panels are incorporated.
[0090] FIG. 22 is an end view of the suspension mount 3a showing
the interconnect sleeve 314 aligned within the spreader beam 310
and the attachment assembly 312n associated in sliding engagement
with the lower region of the spreader beam 310.
[0091] With reference to FIGS. 21 and 22, the spreader beam 310 and
the relationship with the interconnect sleeve 314 and the
attachment assembly 312n is now described. The spreader beam 310 is
generally an elongated triangular structure having angled side
panels 316 and 318 and a bottom panel 320. A panel 322 extends
along the apex formed by the junction of the upper regions of the
side panels 316 and 318 and includes a plurality of holes 324a-324n
used for attachment of cables, hooks, chains, or other attachment
devices used for suspension. A plurality of holes 326a-326n are
included extending through the side panel 316 of the spreader beam
310 and a plurality of holes 328a-328n are included extending
through the side panel 318 (FIG. 22) of the spreader beam 310 for
use in securing the interconnect sleeve 314 within one or more
spreader beams 310. The interconnect sleeve 314 is generally an
elongated triangular structure having angled side panels 330 and
332 and a bottom panel 334 and is suitably sized to telescopingly
engage the interior of one spreader beam 310 and to fittingly
engage one end of an adjacent spreader beam 310. Vertically aligned
pins 336a and 336b mounted in the bottom panel 334 of the
interconnect sleeve 314 engage horizontally aligned slots 338a and
338b in the bottom panel 320 of the spreader beam 310 to ensure
that the interconnect sleeve 314 does not disengage from the
spreader beam 310 for the purpose of storage, safety and
convenience. The slots 338a and 338b are also utilized to act as
guides in cooperation with the pins 336a and 336b extending
therethrough to prevent binding between the interconnect sleeve 314
and the spreader beam 310 when the interconnect sleeve 314 is
positioned along the interior of the spreader beam 310. The pins
336a and 336b can be manually urged to position the interconnect
sleeve 314 outwardly with respect to the spreader beam 310,
especially when the interconnect sleeve 314 is engaged fully within
the spreader beam 310 and it is desired to connect the interconnect
sleeve 314 within an adjacently placed spreader beam 310. A
plurality of holes 340a-340n are included extending through the
side panel 330 of the interconnect sleeve 314 and a plurality of
holes 342a-342n (FIG. 22) are included extending through the side
panel 332 (FIG. 22) of the interconnect sleeve 314 for use in
fixating the position of the interconnect sleeve 314 totally within
one spreader beam 310 when only one interconnect sleeve 314 is used
or for extended use when the interconnect sleeve 314 is
incorporated to connect adjacent spreader beams 310. Captivation
pins 344 pass in various arrangements through the holes 326a-326n
and 328a-328n of the spreader beam 310 and through the holes
340a-340n and 342a-342n of the interconnect sleeve 314 to
accommodate the use of one or more spreader beams. Keeper pins 346
are used at the ends of the captivation pins 344 to maintain the
captivation pins 344 within the previously described and respective
holes. Also included at the lower portion of the spreader beam 310
are opposed horizontally geometrically configured slots 348a and
348b having a profile in the shape of a shortened cross located at
the generously sized junction of the side panel 316 and the bottom
panel 320 and the generously sized junction of the side panel 318
and the bottom panel 320, respectively. The slots 348a and 348b
extend along the length of the spreader beam 310 and include
vertically and horizontally oriented features for accommodation of
components of the attachment assemblies 312a-312n, which are
described with reference to FIG. 23.
[0092] FIG. 23 is an exploded view of the attachment assembly 312c.
The attachment assemblies 312a-312n are of identical construction
and function and each can be installed in suitable reversed
orientation for suitable use for interfacing with the stackable
electronic display panels 2a-2n, as required. Provision is made for
quick and simple attachment of the stackable electronic display
panels 2a-2n to the spreader beam 310 by the use of a positionable
locking mechanism 350 in combination with a geometrically
configured one-piece housing 352 and closely associated components
thereof. The locking mechanism 350 includes a bar 354 having slide
pins 356a and 356b secured thereto and extending perpendicularly
therefrom, springs 358a and 358b aligned over and about the slide
pins 356a and 356b between the bar 354 and pins 360a-360b extending
through the slide pins 356a and 356b, a rotatable guide rod 362
extending through a body hole 364 of the bar 354, one end of which
connects to a control knob 366, a stop pin 368 extending through
the rotatable guide rod 362, and a latch pin 370 extending from one
end of the rotatable guide rod 362. The one-piece housing 352
includes a top panel 372 having a plurality of holes 374a-374d
extending therethrough for accommodation of bolts 376a-376d
extending therethrough to engage threaded holes 378a-378b and
380a-380b extending through slide plates 382a and 382b which are
spaced from the top panel 372. The one-piece housing 352 also
includes a vertically oriented side panel 384, a vertically
oriented side panel 386, a vertically oriented mid-panel 388, a
vertically oriented short mid-panel 390, a bottom panel 392, and a
horizontally aligned mid-panel 394. Various described panels form
an open end upper box channel 396 and two open end lower box
channels 398 and 400. An open receptor slot 402 is formed by the
top panel 372, the side panel 386, and the mid-panel 388 for
accommodation of the connector plates 92 and 94 or connector plates
96 and 98. Sequences of body holes 404a-404n and 406a-406n are
distributed through the side panel 384, the mid-panel 388, and the
side panel 386 to accommodate the slide pins 356a and 356b. A hole
408 in the side panel 384 accommodates the rotatable guide rod 362
and stop pin 368 where the rotatable guide rod 362 positions the
latch pin 370 in a catch slot 410 located in the bottom panel 392
in close proximity to the lower region of the side panel 384. The
springs 358a and 358b are located in the lower box channel 400 in
alignment over and about the slide pins 356a and 356b, as
previously described.
[0093] FIG. 24 is a fragmentary front view in partial cross section
showing the capture of the connector frameworks 14 of adjacent
stackable electronic display panels in attachment assemblies 312b
and 312c. The housing 352 of the attachment assembly 312b is shown
in cross section with the slide pins 356a and 356b in the engaged
mode. The slide pins 356a and 356b in the housing 352 of the
attachment assembly 312c are shown in the disengaged mode. Use of
the attachment assemblies 312b and 312c to couple the connector
frameworks 14 is initiated as shown first with reference to the
attachment assembly 312c. The locking mechanism 350 is actuated
against the action of the springs 358a and 358b to withdraw the
plain ends of the slide pins 356a and 356b from the receptor slot
402 to allow accommodation of the connector pins 92 and 94, and
then the control knob 366 is rotated to position the rotatable
guide rod 362 so that the latch pin 370 engages the catch slot 410,
thereby readying the attachment assembly 312c for acceptance of the
connector plates 92 and 94.
[0094] Full engagement of the connector plates 96 and 98 typifies
the engagement of the other connector plates 92 and 94 with
reference to the attachment assembly 312b shown in cross section.
Upon suitable positioning of the connector plates 96 and 98 within
the receptor slot 402, the control knob 366 is rotated to disengage
the latch pin 370 from the catch slot 410, whereby the force of the
springs 358a and 358b causes the plain ends of the slide pins 356a
and 356b to enter the receptor slot 402 and the engagement holes
96a and 98a of the connector plates 96 and 98 and to be extended
fully through the plurality of body holes 404a-404n to remain
forcibly engaged therein by the force of the springs 358a and
358b.
[0095] FIG. 25 is a bottom view of the attachment assembly 312a
showing the relationship of the latch pin 370 of the outwardly
positioned locking mechanism 350 to the catch slot 410 included on
the bottom panel 392 of the housing 352. The latch pin 370 is shown
in a nonengaged position parallel to the catch slot 410.
[0096] FIG. 26 is an exploded isometric view showing a screen 12
composed of stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n and mounting
structure in the form of a floor stand 412 for mounting on a planar
surface such as a floor, a stage member of a building, structure of
a stage or stadium, or the like. The floor stand 412 utilizes a
plurality of longitudinal supports 414a-414n which can be square or
rectangular box tubing, a plurality of channels 416a-416n aligned
over and about the plurality of longitudinal supports 414a-414n, a
plurality of opposed interconnect sleeves 418a-418n having a
plurality of spacers 419 extending laterally from each side of the
channels 416a-416n, and a plurality of lateral supports 420a-420n
which can be square or rectangular box tubing and which align over
the interconnect sleeves 418a-418n and spacers 419. A plurality of
holes are included in each component for connectivity between the
components of the floor stand 412. A plurality of opposed holes 421
in sets and in vertical orientation are included at the ends of the
longitudinal supports 414a-414n to accommodate fasteners for
securing to a planar surface. A pair of one-piece connector plates
422a and 422b each having connector plate extensions 424 and 426
resembling the upper portions of the connector plates 92, 94, 96
and 98, including engagement holes, are suitably aligned and
attached to the tops of the channels 416a-416n for connective
accommodation by the lower structure of the connector frameworks 14
of the stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n utilizing the
slide pins 190, 190a, 216 and 216a and associated components
thereof. A plurality of locking pins 428 each provided with a
tethered lock clip 430 are included for rapid mutual fixation of
the longitudinal supports 414a-414n, the channels 416a-416n, the
lateral supports 420a-420n, and the like. Three lateral supports
420a-420n are shown, but only one lateral support 420b is required
for use in support of the stackable electronic display panels
2a-2n, as illustrated. The remaining lateral supports 420a and 420n
would be incorporated with additional channels 416a-416n and
additional longitudinal supports 414a-414n for support of
additional stackable electronic display panels.
[0097] FIG. 27 is an isometric view showing a plurality of
connected connector frameworks 14 associated with mounting
structure in the form of a ground stand 450. FIG. 28 is an exploded
isometric view of the connector framework 14 and ground stand 450
shown in FIG. 27. For purposes of brevity and clarity, only the
connector frameworks 14 which are included in the stackable
electronic display panels 2a-2n are shown in each figure. The
ground stand 450 includes major structures consisting of a support
frame 452 and a pair of similarly constructed longitudinal support
assemblies 454a-454b removably attached to the support frame 452.
The support frame 452 includes opposed mirror image-like angle
members 456a and 456b, front and rear lateral supports 460a and
460b preferably in the form of box tubing secured to and extending
transversely between the angle members 456a and 456b, a
longitudinal support 462 preferably in the form of box tubing
secured to and extending between the lateral supports 460a and
460b, a spacer plate 464 secured to a portion of the top of the
lateral support 460a and to a portion of the longitudinal support
462, and a plurality of one-piece connector plates 465a-465n. The
plurality of one-piece connector plates 465a-465n, each having
connector plate extensions 466 and 468 resembling the upper portion
of the connector plates 92, 94, 96 and 98, including engagement
holes, are suitably aligned and attached to the tops of the angle
members 456a-456b and the spacer plate 464 for connective
accommodation by the lower structure of the connector frameworks 14
of the stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n utilizing the
slide pins 190, 190a, 216 and 216a and associated components
thereof in the manner previously described. Angled slots 470 and
472 are included at the front vertical portions of the angle
members 456a and 456b, respectively, for side-by-side accommodation
and joining of additional longitudinal support assemblies 454a and
454b juxtaposed thereto, as described later in detail.
[0098] The longitudinal support assemblies 454a and 454b are
identical in construction and as such only the longitudinal support
assembly 454a is now described. The longitudinal support assembly
454a includes a longitudinal support 474, preferably in the form of
a box tube, having a plurality of opposed holes 476a and 476b, in
sets, along the vertical portions. A connector fixture 478, as
later described, is located at the front portion of the
longitudinal support 474, and a stop cap 480 is located on the rear
portion of the longitudinal support 474 to engage a plurality of
guide/stop bars 482a-482n (FIG. 29) located on one end of a
longitudinal support extension 484 which is telescopingly engaged
by the longitudinal support 474. The longitudinal support extension
484 includes a plurality of opposed holes 485a-485n, in sets, along
the vertical portions. A vertically oriented bracket 486 extends
from the rear and top surface of the longitudinal support extension
484, and opposed horizontally oriented brackets 488a and 488b
extend from the rear and side surfaces of the longitudinal support
extension 484 for the attachment of optional support structure. The
brackets 486 and 488a and 488b include holes for attachment of
other components, as described later in detail. A pad 490 suitable
for ground contact is located on the bottom of the rear and lower
surface of the longitudinal support extension 484. A plurality of
locking pins 492 each provided with a tethered lock clip 494 are
used for several purposes. One purpose is for rapid final fixation
of the longitudinal support assemblies 454a and 454b to the support
frame 452 using opposed holes 476a in the longitudinal support
assemblies 454a and 454b and holes 496 and 498 at the rear portions
of the angle members 456a and 456b, respectively. Another purpose
is for rapid positional fixation of the longitudinal support
extensions 484 within the longitudinal supports 474 using opposed
holes 476b in the longitudinal supports 474 and opposed holes
485a-485n in the longitudinal support extensions 484. The
longitudinal support extensions 484 can be retracted (FIG. 27) into
the longitudinal supports 474, as desired, depending upon the
extent of the support required for different quantities of
stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n.
[0099] FIG. 29 is a partially exploded view of the longitudinal
support assembly 454a. The stop cap 480 is welded to one end of the
longitudinal support 474 and is shown in sliding engagement over
and about one end of the longitudinal support extension 484. The
plurality of guide/stop bars 482a-482n are located and secured to
one end of the longitudinal support extension 484 and function as
guides when the longitudinal support extension 484 is slidably
positioned within the interior of the longitudinal support 474. The
ends of the guide/stop bars 482a-482n also function as stops to
impinge the stop cap 480, thereby ensuring that the longitudinal
support extension 484 remains engaged within a portion of the
longitudinal support 474 at all times. Such engagement keeps the
components conveniently attached to one another so that components
do not get misplaced. The connector fixture 478 located at the
front portion of the longitudinal support 474 includes a rod 500
extending through and beyond the opposed vertical sides of the
longitudinal support 474 at one end of the longitudinal support
474, washers 502 aligned over and about the rod 500 and welded to
the opposed vertical sides of the longitudinal support 474 and to
the rod 500, and washers 504 smaller than washers 502 and spaced
from the washers 502 along and about the rod 500 and welded to the
ends of the rod 500 to include an annular space 506 along the rod
500 between the respective washers 502 and 504. The exposed annular
space 506 of the connector fixture 478 on the outside of the
longitudinal support assembly 454a, shown in FIG. 27, and the
corresponding exposed annular space 506 of the connector fixture
478 (not shown) on the outside of the longitudinal support assembly
454b can be incorporated to facilitate side-by-side accommodation
and joining of additional support frames 452 and additional
longitudinal support assemblies, such as longitudinal support
assembly 454n, juxtaposed thereto somewhat in a manner illustrated
in FIG. 30 when accommodation of more stackable electronic display
panels 2a-2n is required. The annular spaces 506 are incorporated
to engage the angled slots 470 and 472 of adjacent angle members
456a and 456b in concert with locking pins 492 extending through
holes 476a of the longitudinal support assemblies 454a or 454b and
the holes 496 or 498 of the angle members 456a or 456b,
respectively.
[0100] FIG. 30 is an isometric view of connected connector
frameworks 14 a ground stand 450a incorporating the features of the
ground stand 450 and including additional structure for support of
a large number of stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n of
which only the connector frameworks 14 thereof are shown. A
plurality of like bracket fixtures 508a-508n, including opposed
brackets 510a and 510b, connectingly accommodate opposing ends of
horizontally aligned lateral supports 514a-514n, each preferably in
the form of a box tube, and suitably secure to various threaded
holes 171, 173, 167 and 169 of the uppermost connector frameworks
14. Slotted connector tabs 516 on the lateral supports 514a-514n
are used to suitably secure the mid-portion of the lateral supports
514a-514n to various threaded holes 171 and 167 of the uppermost
connector frameworks 14. Additionally, angled brackets 518, being
part of and extending downwardly from the bracket fixtures
508a-508n, connectingly accommodate the upper ends of support
braces 520a-520n. The lower ends of the support braces 520a-520n
include threaded adjusters 522a-522n suitably connected, such as by
the use of clevis and clevis pin fasteners 524a-524n or other
suitable fasteners, to the brackets 486 at the ends of the
longitudinal support assemblies 454a-454n. Brackets 488a and 488b
connectingly accommodate opposing ends of horizontally aligned
lateral supports 526a-526n each of which preferably is in the form
of a box tube. The bracket fixtures 508a-508n, including brackets
510a and 510b and the angled brackets 518, as well as other parts
of the bracket fixtures 508a-508n and the brackets 486 and 488a and
488b, include holes for connection to the lateral supports
514a-514n, the lateral supports 526a-526n, and the support braces
520a-520n using locking pins 492 or other suitable hardware.
[0101] System Layout Options
[0102] The flexibility engineered into the modular display system
constituting the present invention gives users the capability to
use a single screen or multiple screens. As such, depending on how
many different screens a user wants to break his system into,
different numbers of components are required. The following
examples exhibited by FIGS. 31-34 show how a modular display system
comprising 96 panels can be set up in different ways, depending on
the user's needs and the desired system performance.
[0103] FIG. 31 is a plan view of a layout option of a modular
display system in which a single screen 12a composed of ninety-six
stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n is utilized. This option
utilizing the 96-panel screen includes 96 LED display modules 16
affixed to 96 connector frames 14, which make up the 96 stackable
electronic display panels 2a-2n; one data distributor box 6 with
cabling; one 36 KW transportable power rack 7 with cabling (150
feet maximum); one control rack (not shown) including a computer
controller 4 such as a Daktronics V-Tour.TM. controller, a primary
video processor 5 such as a Daktronics V-Link.RTM. video processor,
and a backup video processor (not shown); twelve panel/connector
frame shipping cases (not shown); and two utility cases (not shown)
for cabling.
[0104] FIG. 32 is a plan view of another layout option of a modular
display system involving two screens 12b and 12c each composed of
forty-eight stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n, the two
screens 12b and 12c being controlled by individual computer
controllers 4. This two 48-panel screen option includes 96 LED
display modules 16 affixed to 96 connector frames 14; two data
distributor boxes 6 with cabling; two transportable 18 KW power
racks 7 with cabling (150 feet maximum); two control racks (not
shown) each including a computer controller 4 such as a Daktronics
V-Tour.TM. controller, a primary video processor 5 such as a
Daktronics V-Link.RTM. video processor, and a backup video
processor (not shown); twelve panel/connector frame shipping cases
(not shown); and four utility cases (not shown) for cabling.
[0105] FIG. 33 is a plan view of yet another layout option of a
modular display system wherein four screens 12d, 12e, 12f and 12g
each composed of twenty-four stackable electronic display panels
2a-2n are provided, each screen 12d, 12e, 12f and 12g being
operated by a separate computer controller 4. This four 24-panel
screen option includes 96 LED display modules 16 affixed to 96
connector frames 14; four data distributor boxes 6 with cabling;
four transportable 12 KW power racks 7 with cabling (150 feet
maximum); four control racks (not shown) each including a computer
controller 4 such as a Daktronics V-Tour.TM. controller, a primary
video processor 5 such as a Daktronics V-Link.RTM. video processor,
and a backup video processor (not shown); twelve panel/connector
frame shipping cases (not shown); and six utility cases (not shown)
for cabling.
[0106] FIG. 34 is a plan view of still another layout option of a
modular display system involving four screens 12d, 12e, 12f and 12g
each composed of twenty-four stackable electronic display panels
2a-2n, all four screens 12d, 12e, 12f and 12g in this layout option
being controlled by a common computer controller 4. This four
24-panel screen option includes 96 LED display modules 16 affixed
to 96 connector frames 14; four data distributor boxes 6 with
cabling; four transportable 12 KW power racks 7 cabling (150 feet
maximum); one control rack (not shown) including a computer
controller 4 such as a Daktronics V-Tour.TM. controller, a primary
video processor 5 such as a Daktronics V-Link.RTM. video processor,
and a backup video processor (not shown); twelve panel/connector
frame shipping cases (not shown); and six utility cases (not shown)
for cabling.
[0107] Additional Features
[0108] A. Display Panel Design
[0109] Durable, Lightweight and Water Resistant. Each stackable
electronic display panel 2a-2n is designed with lightness,
ruggedness and water resistance in mind. The result is an IP-65
rated, strong, resilient, weatherized stackable electronic display
panel that weighs only 7 kg (15.40 lb.) and measures approximately
a half meter. The combined features make the stackable electronic
display panels 2a-2n road-ready and equipped for the quickest
possible setup in any environment.
[0110] Low Heat and Low Noise. Efficient power structure minimizes
heat build-up within the stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n,
maximizing internal electronics lifetime. In addition, the
ultraefficient electronics use a rear heat sink 50 for ventilation
thereby creating minimal noise, and making the stackable electronic
display panels 2a-2n virtually silent during operation.
[0111] Serviceability. The stackable electronic display panels
2a-2n are readily serviceable from either the front or the rear. A
hex wrench fits inside from the front or the rear and releases the
LED display module latching system 52 that holds a stackable
electronic display panel in place to a connector framework 14. The
quick release makes changing out stackable electronic display
panels 2a-2n easy and fast.
[0112] Design Flexibility. The modular display system gives
designers the flexibility to create innovative video displays. The
approximately half-meter by half-meter stackable electronic display
panels 2a-2n shape into virtually any configuration, whether
traditional or artistic. The stackable electronic display panels
2a-2n can use rear support structure in the form of the described
connector framework 14 or custom structures can be designed and
built to support the stackable electronic display panels 2a-2n.
[0113] Cast Aluminum Structure. Each connector framework 14 is a
lightweight, durable, cast aluminum structure to provide support
for the affixed LED display module 16. Weighing 20 lb. (9.1 kg.)
alone or 35 lb. (16.1 kg.) when combined with the LED display
module 16, the connector framework 14 is capable of hanging up to
22 stackable electronic display panels, creating displays 36 feet
(11 m.) in height. When mounting from the ground, the connector
framework 14 can support up to 10 panels high using ground stand
mounting structure, creating displays up to 16 feet (5 m.)
high.
[0114] Express Assembly and Superior Seam Control. Each connector
framework 14 includes four slide pins that interlock with the
connector plates on the connector framework 14 below to thereby
secure the connector frameworks in place with one another.
Adjustable side latch assemblies actively draw the panels together
vertically eliminating seams between panels. Thumbwheel adjusters
on the rear of each connector framework 14 adjust horizontal
tolerances and guarantee a tight fit and continuous look.
[0115] Mounting Flexibility. In addition to the cast aluminum
connector frameworks 14, a variety of other structure options are
available. Large scale panel frames can be used for quicker setup
of larger displays and cabinet-style frames can be used for
permanent installations.
[0116] B. Signal Communications
[0117] Redundant Signal. Redundant signal masks signal failures and
maximizes display uptime. The proactive feature ensures against the
unexpected, keeping imagery constant and unbroken on a display. The
innovative, redundant signal design passes image and diagnostic
data from display panel to display panel in two directions. If a
signal interruption occurs from one direction, the affected display
panels automatically switch to the backup signal and a report of
the situation is then given back to the computer controller.
[0118] Signal Connectors and Cables. An industry standard, rugged,
quick release signal connector guarantees a watertight bond between
stackable electronic display panels. An audible, positive-lock
click indicates a connector fits snugly in place, keeping the
elements out. If a supplied signal cable becomes damaged, it can be
temporarily replaced with a standard network cable available from
almost any electronics store. This quick fix solution eliminates
waiting on manufacturer-supplied cables to keep the show going.
[0119] Operational Status Indicators. Operational status LEDs on
the backside of an LED display module give a quick visual
indication of the LED display module's operational status. The
signal indicators turn off when the data path to the LED display
modules is interrupted, alerting support personnel that further
examination is required.
[0120] C. Power Delivery
[0121] Remote Power System. To keep noise away from the display, a
remote transportable power delivery system or rack that can be
located up to 150 feet (45.7 meters) away from the display is
provided. The external remote power delivery system removes the
power supplies from the display, resulting in a drastically lighter
display panel and reducing heat for extended uniformity.
[0122] Power Connectors. An industry standard, rugged, quick
release power connector guarantees a watertight bond between
display panels. An audible, positive-lock click indicates a
connector fits snugly in place, keeping the elements out.
[0123] Hot-Swappable Power. The transportable power rack can be
located up 150 feet (45.7 meters) away from the display and allows
power units inside the rack to be hot-swapped for one another,
keeping a constant supply of power to the display panels. The power
rack contains several power units that distribute the power evenly
to the display panels. Should one power unit fail, the remaining
units pick up the power load and keep the display running. An
indicator alerts support personnel of a failed power unit, allowing
them to replace the unit for a new one without shutting off power
to the display panels.
[0124] Operational Status Indicators. Operational status LEDs on
the backsides of the LED display modules give a quick visual
indication of the operational status of the LED display modules.
The power indicator illuminates when the LED display module
receives power, signaling to support personnel that the LED display
module works correctly.
[0125] Various modifications can be made to the present invention
without departing from the apparent scope hereof.
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