U.S. patent application number 13/606331 was filed with the patent office on 2013-01-10 for remote control electronic display system.
This patent application is currently assigned to ACTIVISION TV, INC.. Invention is credited to Dave Gothard.
Application Number | 20130009968 13/606331 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 26769478 |
Filed Date | 2013-01-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130009968 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Gothard; Dave |
January 10, 2013 |
Remote Control Electronic Display System
Abstract
A display apparatus and display system wherein displays are
generated at a remote source and transmitted to the display
apparatus for real time or timed presentation.
Inventors: |
Gothard; Dave; (Naples,
FL) |
Assignee: |
ACTIVISION TV, INC.
Naples
FL
|
Family ID: |
26769478 |
Appl. No.: |
13/606331 |
Filed: |
September 7, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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12116053 |
May 6, 2008 |
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13606331 |
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10874102 |
Jun 21, 2004 |
7369058 |
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12116053 |
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10010556 |
Nov 8, 2001 |
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10874102 |
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09295894 |
Apr 21, 1999 |
6384736 |
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10010556 |
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09132456 |
Aug 11, 1998 |
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09295894 |
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60083597 |
Apr 30, 1998 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
345/501 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10T 24/2742 20150115;
G09F 27/00 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
345/501 |
International
Class: |
G06T 1/00 20060101
G06T001/00 |
Claims
1. A display apparatus comprising: a) a housing, b) a display panel
on said housing, c) a computer associated with said housing for
controlling and operation of the display panel comprising a
processor, memory and storage, and d) a receiver for receiving
electronic signals from a remote source and transmitting the same
to the computer; wherein the electronic signals contain, in digital
form, i) the images, information, and/or data to be presented on
the display panel, ii) information or commands pertaining to the
timing and frequency of the display of the foregoing, or iii) both,
and wherein the processor is controlled, in whole or in part, from
a remote source and is adapted to i) receive and process the
electronic signals from the remote source, it) store the electronic
signals in the memory, the storage, or both, and iii) retrieve the
electronic signals from the memory or storage and, in following,
present or display the information, data and/or images on the
display panel in accordance with the information or commands
embeded in or represented by the electronic signals.
2. The display of claim 1 wherein the display apparatus is a
self-contained system, capable of being moved as a single, fully
operational, unit.
3. The display of claim 2 wherein computer is within the
housing.
4. The display of claim 2 wherein the computer is outside of the
housing.
5. The display of claim 1 wherein the computer is in close
proximity to the housing.
6. The display of claim 1 wherein the housing includes openings for
ventilation.
7. The display of claim 6 wherein one or more of the openings have
associated therewith a fan.
8. The display of claim 1 further comprising a transparent cover
overlaying and protecting the display panel.
9. The display of claim 1 wherein the receiver comprises a modem or
like apparatus for accepting electronic signals through a
conductor.
10. The display of claim 1 wherein the receiver comprises a
wireless signal receiving means.
11. The display of claim 1 further comprising electronic signals
received from a remote source stored in the storage which
electronic signals include both the images, information, and/or
data to be presented on the display panel as well as information or
commands pertaining to the timing and frequency of the display.
12. The display of claim 11 wherein the electronic signals
pertaining to the images, information, and/or data are streaming
media.
13. The display of claim 1 wherein the computer is controlled
exclusively from the remote source.
14. The display of claim 1 wherein the processor is also adapted to
display images, information, and/or data on the display panel on a
real time basis as it is received from the remote source.
15. A display system for presenting displays at one or more
locations, said system comprising: A) one or more display
apparatus, each comprising: a) a housing, b) at least one display
panel on said housing, c) a computer associated with said housing
for controlling and operation of the display panel(s) comprising a
processor, memory and storage, and d) a receiver for receiving
electronic signals from a remote source and transmitting the same
to the computer; and B) a remote source comprising: a) means for
creating electronic signals representativ display, b) storage means
for storing the electronic signals, c) means for creating
electronic signals containing or representative of commands for
operation, in whole or in part, of the computer of the display
apparatus, and d) means for transmitting the electronic signals
from the remote source to the computer of the display apparatus;
wherein the electronic signals contain, in digital form, i) the
images, information, and/or data to be presented on the display
panel, ii) information or commands pertaining to the timing and
frequency of the display of the foregoing, or iii) both, and
wherein the processor is controlled, in whole or in part, from a
remote source and is adapted to i) receive and process the
electronic signals from the remote source, ii) store the electronic
signals in the memory, the storage, or both, and iii) retrieve the
electronic signals from the memory or storage and, in following,
present or display the information, data and/or images on the
display panel.
16. The display of claim 15 wherein the display apparatus is a
self-contained system, capable of being moved as a single, fully
operational, unit.
17. The display of claim 16 wherein computer is within the
housing.
18. The display of claim 16 wherein the computer is outside of the
housing.
19. The display of claim 15 wherein the computer is in close
proximity to the housing.
20. The display of claim 15 wherein the housing includes openings
for ventilation.
21. The display of claim 20 wherein one or more of the openings
have associated therewith a fan.
22. The display of claim 15 further comprising a transparent cover
overlaying and protecting the display panel.
23. The display of claim 15 wherein the receiver comprises a modem
or like apparatus for accepting electronic signals through a
conductor.
24. The display of claim 15 wherein the receiver comprises a
wireless signal receiving means.
25. The display of claim 15 further comprising electronic signals
received from a remote source stored in the storage which
electronic signals include both the images, information, and/or
data to be presented on the display panel as well as information or
commands pertaining to the timing and frequency of the display.
26. The display of claim 25 wherein the electronic signals
pertaining to the images, information, and/or data are streaming
media.
27. The display of claim 15 wherein the computer is controlled
exclusively from the remote source.
28. The display of claim 15 wherein the processor is also adapted
to display images, information, and/or data on the display panel on
a real time basis as it is received from the remote source.
29. A method for generating a display on one or more computer
controlled display apparatus having at least one display panel,
wherein the computer is within or in close proximity to the display
apparatus and comprises a processor, memory and storage, said
method comprising: a) creating electronic signals representative of
one or more displays to be presented on the display panel(s) of the
display apparatus at a remote source; b) transmitting said
electronic signals together with electronic signals representative
of the operating instructions or commands for said display
apparatus from the remote source to the computer of the display
apparatus; c) causing the electronic signals representative of the
one or more displays to be stored in the storage and the electronic
signals representative of the operating instructions or commands to
be stored in the memory or the storage or both; and d) causing the
presentation of a display on the display panels based on the
transmitted electronic signals, wherein the transmission of the
electronic signals representative of the display and the electronic
signals representative of the operating instructions or commands
may be sent individually or as a single transmission, concurrently
or at different times.
30. The method of claim 29 further characterized in that said
electronic signals representative of the display are in the form of
streaming media.
31. The method of claim 29 wherein one or more displays stored in
the storage and/or the operating instructions or commands stored on
the memory and/or the storage is changed from a remote source,
which may be the originating remote source.
Description
[0001] This application is based on and is a continuation of
co-pending, allowed U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/116,053,
filed May 6, 2008, which is a continuation of U.S. patent
application Ser. No. 10/874,102 filed Jun. 21, 2004, now U.S. Pat.
No. 7,369,058, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application
Ser. No. 10/010,556, filed Nov. 8, 2001, abandoned, which is a
continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/295,894, filed
Apr. 21, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,384,736, which is a
continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No.
09/132,456, filed Aug. 11, 1998, which claims the benefit of U.S.
Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 60/083,597, filed Apr. 30,
1998, now expired.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates in general to certain new and useful
improvements in display signs, and more particularly, to remotely
controlled electronically operable display signs in which a display
on a sign may be changed at will from a remote source, and methods
of displaying information in such manner that the sign is used as
an instrument to enhance the image of a product or service.
[0003] Display signs are used in a wide variety of industries,
frequently as promotional and advertising aids. Thus, many retail
stores will employ display signs in the front of their stores or
elsewhere featuring products which are being sold or otherwise
offered by that establishment. Display signs are also frequently
used for traffic control by various municipalities and governmental
agencies. Essentially all display signs presently available are
static in that they carry a substrate with a message or design
thereon and which is to be conveyed, as for example, a paper sheet
having information thereon for display and which may be frequently
mounted behind a transparent member such as a sheet of glass. In
many cases, the poster or other display sheet may be mounted within
a frame having a light source mounted therein. In this case, the
front face of the sheet may be lighted from lights located along
portions of the periphery of the frame. In some cases, when using a
somewhat transparent or translucent sheet, back lighting may also
be employed.
[0004] The cost of preparing display signs made with paper and
paper-board substrates can be quite substantial. Initially, the art
work must be prepared, often times by hand; although certain
computer aids for purposes of preparing the drawing may be
available. Nevertheless, preparation of the drawing is labor
intensive. Thereafter, multi-color printing is usually required in
order to complete the preparation of the paper or paper-board sign
or display. These various steps, as indicated, are labor intensive
and therefore materially add to the overall costs of preparing a
sign or display, particularly when made of a paper or paper-board
material.
[0005] In addition to the foregoing, there are also costs involved
in the shipping or transport of these signs. Generally, they cannot
be folded or bent or they would otherwise be unsuitable for use. As
a result, special precautions and shipping containers must be
provided for transport of the paper or paper-board substrate signs
or displays.
[0006] There have also been display signs which use a frame and a
source of light along with a glass or Plexiglas sheet having an
image or other information literally formed on the sheet, as for
example, by means of glass etching, masking, or the like. However,
with this type of display, when it is necessary or desirable to
change the display in the sign, it is necessary to prepare a new
piece of glass or Plexiglas or otherwise a masking on a rear
surface thereof having other information presented thereon.
[0007] Here again, the cost of preparing an etched glass sheet can
be quite substantial. The same also holds true of the outer
transparent sheets with masks on the rear surface thereof to create
a design or display with that sheet. Again, because of the frailty
of these sheets, substantial precautions must be taken for the
transport or shipment of these sheets. There is presently no
display sign capable of having information changed thereon as
quickly as information can be changed on the screen of a computer
monitor. Moreover, and independently thereof, there is presently no
effective display sign which can be changed from a remote
location.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0008] It is, therefore, one of the primary objects of the present
invention to provide an electronic display sign which uses a flat
panel display image and which can readily be changed in accordance
with electronic signals applied thereto.
[0009] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
electronic display sign of the type stated which can be altered
rapidly through the use of a computer or otherwise through an image
scanner.
[0010] It is a further object of the present invention to provide
an electronic display sign of the type stated which can be
controlled from a remote source and the display on the sign can be
changed at will from that remote source.
[0011] It is an additional object of the present invention to
provide a display sign of the type stated which completely
eliminates the need for interchangeable substrates bearing the
information to be displayed.
[0012] It is also an object of the present invention to provide an
electronic display sign and a method of altering a display on a
sign electronically and without using interchangeable substrates
bearing information to be displayed.
BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0013] The present invention relates in general terms to a display
system including a display sign having a display panel which is
electronically accessible from a remote source and which enables
the almost automatic change of a display pursuant to control of by
operator at a remote source. In a broad sense, the display system
of the present invention comprises a display sign at one or more
locations having a display panel thereon as well as display
generating means at the remote source for generating a display to
be displayed on the display panel. The display is actually
generated in the form of an electrical signal and the system
comprises a transmitting means for transmitting the electrical
signal representing the display to the display panel of that
display sign.
[0014] The present invention also provides a method of generating a
display on a display sign from a remote source. The method involves
the steps of generating the display and then transmitting that
display to the display sign in the form of electrical signals
representing the display. The display sign is provided with
electronics using the received electrical signal to recreate the
generated display and present the same on the display panel.
[0015] In one embodiment of the invention, the means for
transmitting the display is an electrical conductor connected
between the display sign and the display generating means at the
remote source. In another embodiment of the invention, the means
for transmitting the display is a wireless transmission means, such
as by means of radio frequency transmission, satellite
transmission, or the like.
[0016] In a more preferred embodiment of the invention, the means
for generating the display comprises an image generating means
which enables the generation of initial image forming part of the
display and a temporary storage for temporarily storing that image.
Editing means are also provided for adding material to or otherwise
modifying the image. Thereafter, a permanent storage is provided to
enable storage of the generated display in electrical format, at
least until such time as transmission thereof to the display
sign.
[0017] In still a more preferred embodiment, the apparatus
comprises a scanning means for scanning a particular image and
converting the image into electrical signals representative
thereof. The image is then stored in the temporary storage. A
keyboard input may be connected to that temporary storage for
introducing information through a keyboard input. In addition,
means is provided for adding other copy material. Thereafter, all
of the material added can be edited by an operator to form a
display. The display is then stored in a permanent storage.
[0018] It is also possible to generate a display, or to otherwise
add information to a display, or otherwise alter a display by means
of information introduced over the World Wide Web. Thus, various
inputs can be made from a variety of sources, all of which can be
processed and added to or otherwise used to modify a proposed image
as may be desired.
[0019] At a predetermined time, the stored display can then be
transmitted to a storage in the sign. Moreover, a plurality of
different displays can be stored at the remote source and these
displays can be sequentially transmitted to the display sign. In
this way, an operator can manually or automatically control the
generation of a plurality of desired displays in a predetermined
time sequence.
[0020] The present invention not only allows for the display to be
generated at the sign from a remote source, but it also allows for
a plurality of displays to be presented in a desired format and in
a desired predetermined time arrangement, as aforesaid. As a
result, there is no need to use hard copy displays, such as
pre-printed paper displays. Furthermore, minor changes can be
electronically made in a display as, for example, minor price
changes can be made without the necessity of re-printing.
[0021] The display sign is also of a unique construction in that it
comprises means for controlling certain atmospheric conditions and,
particularly, temperature in the display sign. Furthermore, an
interference filter is formed on the surface of the display panel
to preclude excess heat generation within the display sign. The
display panel is preferably a plasma display, as hereinafter
described in more detail.
[0022] The display sign preferably includes an outer housing which
may be provided with a removable front face or so-called "cover."
The front face is provided with an enlarged opening in order to
enable a display panel to appear through that opening. A
transparent protective sheet may be disposed over the display
panel. The housing is in the form of a rectangular shaped box,
although it may adopt other shapes. The major components which
enable the display, including the display panel, are preferably
mounted on a separate chassis to enable easy and convenient
assembly of the display sign. The separate chassis is secured
through the display box to a mounting station, such as a display
stand. In this way, only one having authorized access to the
interior of the display housing can disconnect the chassis and the
mounting station. The chassis in the preferred embodiment includes
a power supply for operating the plasma display panel. In addition,
the chassis may also comprise a second power supply for operation
of a processor or computer within the housing. The computer is
designed for connection to the temporary storage at the remote
source and will receive generated displays in electrical signal
format. The computer is programmed to recreate those displays at
the sign and generate the same through the plasma display panel.
For this purpose, the computer is also mounted on the chassis.
[0023] The housing is preferably provided with a plurality of
openings extending primarily throughout the side wall thereof.
Moreover, venting fans may also be provided for venting heated air
in the housing to the exterior.
[0024] The foregoing objects and the advantages of this invention
have been met and fulfilled by this system and method which has
been briefly described in the general description. However, the
invention will now be described in more detail in the following
detailed description and in the accompanying drawings.
Nevertheless, it is to be understood that these drawings and the
following detailed description are only set forth for purposes of
illustrating the general principles of the invention. Therefore, it
should be understood that the accompanying drawings and the
detailed description are not to be taken in a limiting sense.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0025] Having thus described the invention in general terms,
reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings in
which:
[0026] FIG. 1 is a schematic component view showing those elements
necessary for generating a display either through hard wired
conveyance or otherwise wireless conveyance of information;
[0027] FIG. 2 is a schematic circuit diagram showing major
components necessarily involved in the generation of an electronic
display from a remote source;
[0028] FIG. 3 is a schematic flow diagram showing those steps
involved in generating a display from a remote source;
[0029] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of one form of display sign
constructed in accordance with and embodying the present
invention;
[0030] FIG. 5 is a side elevational view of the display sign of
FIG. 4;
[0031] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a lid or cover which extends
over the display sign;
[0032] FIG. 7 is a fragmentary vertical sectional view taken along
line 7-7 of FIG. 6.
[0033] FIG. 8 is a vertical sectional view, similar to FIG. 7, and
showing a slightly modified form of cover used with the display
sign of the present invention;
[0034] FIG. 9 is an exploded perspective view showing some of the
major components in the display sign of the present invention;
[0035] FIG. 10 is an exploded fragmentary perspective view,
partially broken away, and somewhat similar to FIG. 9, and showing
the various components in their assembled position;
[0036] FIG. 11 is a fragmentary sectional view showing one form of
panel construction used in the present invention;
[0037] FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing one type of mounting
for a display sign constructed in accordance with and embodying the
present invention;
[0038] FIG. 13 is a fragmentary perspective view showing a modified
form of display sign constructed in accordance with and embodying
the present invention; and
[0039] FIG. 14 is a vertical sectional view showing the
relationship of the display panel and a transparent cover plate
therefore used in the system of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT
[0040] Referring now in more detail and by reference characters to
the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates the major components forming part
of a display system D in accordance with the present invention.
This display system primarily shows the generation of a display
from electrical signals representative of that display at a remote
location and transmission to a display sign for recreation on that
display sign.
[0041] In accordance with the schematic illustration of FIG. 1, the
display system D comprises a display sign 20. Incorporated within
the display sign 20 or otherwise being connected to the display
sign is a sign controller 22. This controller may adopt the form of
a microprocessor or computer in the sign and preferably includes a
storage, as hereinafter described in more detail.
[0042] The display system D of the invention further comprises a
display generating means 24 at a remote source and which is usually
comprised of a computer 26 which may adopt the form of a processor
and storage, as well as a scanner 28. In the embodiment of the
invention as shown, the scanner receives ad copy 30 and generates a
display in electrical format which can then be transmitted from the
computer 26 to the display sign 20.
[0043] One of more inputs from the World Wide Web can also be
connected to the computer 26, as shown in FIG. 1, for aiding in or
otherwise being used to generate the copy which is to be displayed
on the plasma display screen 20. The computer 26, in the embodiment
as illustrated, may be located at a remote site with respect to the
display sign 20. However, it should also be understood that the
display sign 20 also includes its own internal computer so that the
entire display is essentially self-contained and can be operated
without communication with a remote source. However, the remote
source is needed in order to change any display which may otherwise
be stored in the memory of the computer at the display screen, or
to otherwise modify the manner in which the display is made.
[0044] FIG. 1 also illustrates both a hard wire conductor means for
transmitting the generated display, as well as a wireless means for
transmitting the generated display. For the purposes of hard wire
conductor transmission, the computer 26 is provided with a modem 32
and the controller 22, and the display sign 20 is similarly
provided with a corresponding modem 34. As indicated previously,
wireless transmission is also available and could adopt the form of
microwave signal transmission, radio frequency transmission,
including satellite transmission, or the like. In this respect, the
signal which is generated is still an electrical signal in either
radio frequency format or other wireless transmission format for
wireless transmission. For purposes of wireless transmission, a
satellite 36, as shown, may be employed, such that the wireless
transmission will follow the path 38 shown in the dotted lines of
FIG. 1.
[0045] FIG. 2 illustrates those major components forming part of
the display system of the present invention. In this case, the
display system comprises the scanner 28 which is usually employed
for purposes of generating the initial image. Typically, a
pre-prepared image of the element to be displayed is used and
scanned from the scanner 28 into a temporary storage 40. The image
to be scanned by the scanner 28 may be a pre-drawn image or
otherwise, it can be an image adopted from an existing source. The
scanner 28 will effectively digitize the image and thereby store
that digitized image into the temporary storage 40.
[0046] A keyboard input 42 is also connected to the temporary
storage 40 for introducing information, such as typewritten
information, into that storage. The temporary storage 40 also
receives an input from the World Wide Web 43 and which is
schematically illustrated in FIG. 2. In effect, the World Wide Web
would actually constitute one or more inputs from computer
transmission lines.
[0047] The temporary storage 40 operates in conjunction with a
processor 44 and a manually operable editor 46. The editor 46 is
primarily designed to manipulate the images introduced into the
processor 44 and the information from the keyboard input 42 into a
desired format. Thus, a user of the system can manually superpose
one image over another or otherwise modify two images by blending
them together, etc. The editor 46 merely contains controls to
enable the processor 44 to perform those functions. In this sense,
the editor could also be another keyboard input much in the same
manner as a computer keyboard input.
[0048] The information from the temporary storage 40 is then
introduced into a permanent storage 48 where it can be retained,
either indefinitely, or at least until such time as it is
transmitted to a display sign, as hereinafter described in more
detail.
[0049] The display system of the invention may also comprise a
transmitting means 50 in the form of a transmitter, which is
schematically illustrated in FIG. 2. The transmitter means 50 may
adopt any conventional form of a transmission means as, for
example, the modems 32 and 34, or otherwise for wireless
transmission, a radio frequency transmitter, etc.
[0050] The aforesaid components constitute those major components
which will form part of the display system and the remote site.
Thereafter, the images which form the displays along with the other
incorporated information therein can be transmitted to a display
storage 60 located at and forming part of a display sign 20. The
display sign 20, through its own processor, as hereinafter
described, enables the generation of a display on a display panel
64 forming part of the display sign 20. The display panel 64 is
also hereinafter described in more detail.
[0051] The display sign 20 may form part of or otherwise may be
mounted on a stand 66, as best shown in FIG. 12. The stand 66
conventionally includes a base 68 as well as an upstanding leg 70,
the latter of which would engage and support the display sign 20.
However, it should also be understood that the display sign 20
could be provided with a mounting means, as hereinafter described,
for mounting to a wall or like structure.
[0052] FIG. 3 illustrates some of the major steps associated with
the method for generating a display from a remote source. In this
case, it can be seen that an image, such as an advertising image,
is scanned and digitized for introduction into a temporary storage,
such as the temporary storage 40. Again, keyboard input information
is also provided, as well as other copy information, as shown in
FIG. 3. This other copy information is typically introduced through
the scanner 28. After the display has been formed, it is stored in
the permanent storage 48 and then introduced into the display
storage 60. FIG. 3 also illustrates a rotational sequence program
which can be used at the remote site or at the display sign_Thus,
various displays can be generated in sequence at the display sign
and at predetermined time intervals.
[0053] The display sign 20 is more fully illustrated in FIGS. 5-11
of the drawings. The display sign 20 generally comprises an outer
housing 72, such as a rectangular shaped housing. The housing is
preferably formed of a metal and even more preferably a light
weight metal, such as aluminum, although it could be formed of
steel or other structural materials. In this respect, the housing
could also be formed of plastics and even reinforced composite
plastics.
[0054] The housing 72 is provided with a removable lid or cover
plate 74 having a depending rim 76 which fits around a portion of
the side wall of the housing 72. In addition, the lid or cover
plate 74 is provided with an enlarged central opening 78 in order
to enable the display panel 64 to appear therethrough. A
transparent cover plate 80, in the nature of a protective sheet,
could also be included in this opening 78 if desired. Furthermore,
the removable lid or cover plate 74 is secured to the housing 72 in
some manner as to preclude unauthorized opening as, for example,
tamper-proof fasteners.
[0055] In order to preclude glare on the display panel 64, a top
plate 69 is mounted on the upper end of the housing and carries at
its outer end an angularly located somewhat downwardly struck visor
71. This construction is effective in reducing glare on the display
screen 64, particularly from overhead light sources. The top plate
69, which also functions as a visor, is optional in construction
and can be eliminated in those environments where not required. It
is also possible to provide a non-glare coating on the transparent
cover plate 80, although the coatings themselves have not
necessarily been fully effective in eliminating all glare. In a
preferred embodiment, the top plate 69 has an overall dimension
from the rear of the housing of about 7''. The lip 71 extends
downwardly from the top plate 69 at a about a 45.degree. angle.
However, other sizes and angular relationships could be used, as
may be required.
[0056] The transparent protective sheet 80 may be formed of a
transparent plastic material, or otherwise it may be formed of
glass. However, glass is not preferred due to the fact that it will
crack or shatter with any rough handling. The transparent
protective sheet 80 is retained in a U-shaped grove 82 formed at
the edge of the opening 78. This opening is formed by an integrally
created U-shaped channel 84 surrounding the edge of the opening 78,
as best illustrated in FIG. 7 of the drawings. In addition, the lid
or cover member 74 is also provided with a U-shaped channel 86
perpendicularly arranged to the grove 82 and which is sized to
receive the forwardly presented edge of the housing 72, as also
best shown in FIG. 7 of the drawings.
[0057] FIG. 8 illustrates a slightly modified embodiment of the
construction shown in FIG. 7. In place of the formation of a
U-shaped channel 84, a plurality of brackets or tabs 88 affixed to
the inside of the cover member 74 surrounding the opening 78, are
used to hold the transparent sheet 80 in a fixed position. The
remaining portions of the lid are substantially identical to those
shown and described in connection with FIG. 7.
[0058] The operating components forming part of the display sign 20
are actually mounted on a chassis 90 disposed within the housing
72. The chassis 90 comprises a pair of longitudinally extending
side plates 91 and which are connected by a bottom plate or chassis
plate 93, as best shown in FIG. 9 of the drawings. Moreover, and by
reference to both FIGS. 9 and 10, it can be seen that the chassis
90 is disposed within the housing 72, as hereinafter described.
Mounted on the upper surface of the chassis plate 92 are a pair of
longitudinally extending frame bars 93 and which are connected by
transversely extending cross-bars 94. Moreover, the longitudinally
extending frame members 93 and the cross-bars 94 can be mounted on
a supporting plate 96. Although the supporting plate 96 is provided
in a preferred embodiment, it is not absolutely necessary and this
plate could be eliminated, if desired.
[0059] The housing 72 is preferably comprised of an enclosing side
wall 98 and a rear wall 100 which extends there across and thereby
forms an interior chamber 102. The chassis 90 can be secured to
this rear wall 100 by means of screws or other fasteners (not
shown) which extend through the back plate. However, other forms of
securement could be provided for this purpose, as hereinafter
described.
[0060] The major operating components of the display sign are
mounted on this chassis which is located within the housing 72, as
aforesaid. These major operating components include a power supply
104 for the computer 26 and the display storage 60. A separate
power supply 108 is also mounted on the chassis plate 96 and
provides operating current for the other components of the display
housing. The computer is effectively a microprocessor and contains
the storage, as aforesaid, as well as a random access memory and a
processor for controlling the display of a sign and also is
operated from a control source at a remote location. Thus, and in
this respect, the computer 106 is effectively a "slave" computer in
that it receives instructions from the remote source and performs
those instructions in the display sign by generating the proper
display in accordance with the signals submitted to the computer
106.
[0061] Located on and secured to the upper surface of the chassis
90 is the display panel 64. In a preferred embodiment of the
invention, the display panel is a plasma display. These display
units are relatively thin and have a thickness on the order of
about 35 mm. One of the preferred forms of display panel is made by
Fujitsu and is identified as a "Full Color Plasma Display".
[0062] These displays effectively operate as high-definition
direct-view television monitors. These displays generally contain
about 640 horizontal display pixels and about 480 vertical pixels
along with about 1920 horizontal display cells and 480 vertical
display cells. Moreover, they operate with gradations of red, green
and blue and present a viewing angle of about 140.degree..
Internally, the display is usually comprised of an IF controller, a
data controller, a random access memory, and a driver controller.
Nevertheless, since the plasma display is available in the art, it
is therefore neither illustrated nor described in any further
detail herein.
[0063] It is important to recognize that the display sign itself is
generally fully self-contained and can literally be moved and
operated at different locations. This is unlike the larger versions
of display signs in which separate computer operated systems are
required in order to operate the display panel itself. These
display signs are effectively made with high definition and high
resolution display panels. The panels are flat, as aforesaid, and
can be operated at standard line current, such as 120 volt AC
current. As indicated previously, all of these plasma operated
display panels are computer operated. In accordance with the
present invention, the entire display panel, whether or not a
plasma panel, is computer operated from a computer source located
within the display sign housing. In this sense, a remote source is
used to generate the display which is to be shown on the display
panel. However, a plurality of displays can be pre-prepared and
stored in the memory of the computer contained in the display panel
housing. Nevertheless, the remote source would be used to revise or
alter those displays, as may be required.
[0064] Based on the foregoing, the display panel of the invention
can be described as a self-contained computer controlled flat panel
display screen providing high resolution and definition. Although
it is preferable to use the plasma operated display panel, it is
possible to use those relatively flat computer controlled display
panels which are not plasma operated but nevertheless still provide
high resolution and definition and which are still nevertheless
portable. Therefore, the display panel which is referred to as a
computer controlled display panel is preferably one which is
self-contained and includes a computer controlling a flat panel
display screen of the type which provides both high resolution and
definition and which is also relatively portable without the need
for heavy transport equipment. This computer controlled display
panel, when used in a display sign, also has a computer operating
the display panel located in the display sign housing.
[0065] The aforesaid plasma display screens are relatively thin in
their overall construction, having a thickness within the range of
about 35 mm, as aforesaid. Nevertheless, the flat panel display
panel of the present invention is one which is deemed to have a
thickness which does not exceed about six inches. Moreover, the
entire display sign preferably does not have a thickness exceeding
about twelve inches. Although it is possible to use a computer for
controlling the display panel outside of the sign housing, it is
preferable to incorporate the computer in the sign housing.
[0066] The display panel used in the display system of the present
invention differs substantially from that of a standard television
type display. In a television display, the image will change at the
display rate as, for example, fifty frames per second. Even though
the image may not change in a way that the viewer is able to
perceive, the master pattern is such that the image on that screen
nevertheless changes at the display rate. In the case of the
present invention, the display on the screen may remain for
essentially any period of time, including several seconds or
several minutes, and there is no composite of frames to generate an
image.
[0067] As indicated previously, the display system of the invention
is portable. In other words, the entire display housing and stand
can be moved from one location to another without heavy lifting and
transporting equipment. The entire display panel and housing, along
with the stand, could weigh as much as one hundred seventy pounds,
but it is nevertheless liftable and movable by two or three
persons. In contrast, with some of the large display signs which
are presently used as, for example, marquees over large hotels and
the like, those displays may weigh several thousand pounds and
require a hoist and like equipment to move same. Nevertheless,
since the entire display housing can be transported from one
location to another and, indeed, the display panel can be easily
transported from one location to another without the need for heavy
cranes and the like, these display panels and, for that matter, the
entire display sign is deemed to be portable.
[0068] The location of each of the aforesaid operating components
within the housing does generate heat within the housing. For this
purpose, the housing 72 is provided with a plurality of apertures
110 on the side walls thereof, as shown in FIG. 9. In like manner,
the chassis is provided with aligned apertures 112, as also shown
in FIG. 9. In this way, air-flow ventilation is allowed. Moreover,
and if desired, either exhaust fans or air in-take fans could be
positioned in adjacent relationship to the apertures or openings
110 and 112. Other types of ventilation means could also be
provided, if desired.
[0069] It has been found in connection with the present invention
that optimum flow and ventilation is achieved when a pair of
oppositely disposed air intakes and a pair of oppositely disposed
air outlets are provided. In addition, two fans are preferably used
for air circulation throughout the housing. Thus, in the embodiment
as shown in FIG. 9, for example, there are a pair of air inlets 110
and a pair of air outlets 112. Mounted on the bottom wall of the
housing, as hereinafter described, is a pair of fans 124. This type
of arrangement is highly effective in precluding condensation
formation in the space between the actual display panel 64 and the
transparent cover plate 80.
[0070] The entire housing 72 is mounted on a mounting plate or
support plate 114, as best shown in FIG. 10 of the drawings. In
this case, the support plate 114 is, in turn, secured to a wall or
other support structure as for example, the stand 66, as shown in
FIG. 12. The mounting plate 114 is a provided with an upstanding
protrusion 116 which extends through an opening (not shown) in the
rear wall 100 of the housing. Thereafter, a locking pin 118 is
provided for extension through the side walls of the housing and
the opening in the protrusion 116. In this way, it is virtually
impossible to remove the display sign from the mounting plate 114,
unless one has authorized access to the interior of the housing 72.
However, it should be understood that other means for mounting the
housing 72 to the mounting plate 114 could be provided for this
purpose.
[0071] The display panel 64 may be disposed on the upper surface of
the chassis, as aforesaid, or otherwise located within the housing.
In addition, it may be connected to the electronics and located
within the cover plate 74 in adjacent relationship to the
transparent cover plate 80. However, the display panel is
preferably provided with an interference film or layer 130 which
reduces heat introduction into the housing and operates as a type
of interference film. Nevertheless, the interference film 130 could
be located on the transparent cover plate 80 for this particular
purpose. FIG. 14 shows a stacked arrangement in which the display
panel 64 is provided with the interference film 130 and the outer
transparent cover plate 80. If desired, these components could be
laminated together.
[0072] It is also possible to provide a spacer frame 132 between
the transparent cover plate 80 and the display panel 64, thereby
providing an intermediate isolated space 134, all as best shown in
FIG. 14. If the space 134 is properly insulated, then there is
little or no possibility of condensation forming in the interior
thereof. Moreover, the space 134 could be evacuated during the
construction of the assembly.
[0073] It has also been found that the plasma operated screens will
generate radio frequency interference. Moreover, it has been found
that the interference film which is employed can be placed directly
on the plasma operated display panel in order to preclude this
interference. For this purpose, the interference layer is
approximately 1.5 mils thick. It has been found that a plastic
cover cannot be used for this purpose because of potential out
gassing.
[0074] The display system of the present invention provides a
unique advantage which has not been heretofore available. The
display can be generated in this case as an analog display. Prior
art systems, on a limited basis, have used computers to generate a
display on a sign. However, that display is necessarily generated
in a digital format and, thus, has significant limitations on the
quality and the ability of a particular display to be generated.
Contrariwise, in the present invention, a display, which may be
generated from a photographic image, can be essentially recreated
on a display sign from a remote source.
[0075] The display system of the present invention not only
operates as a true display sign per se, but it is also effective in
operating as a type of product or service promotion enhancing
medium. Thus, not only does the display sign present a display as
such, but the manner in which the display system is operated
literally has been found to provide a type of advertising or
promotional medium. For this purpose, the display stand itself may
be provided with an arrangement for displaying products. Referring
again to FIG. 12, it can be seen that a plurality of upstanding
dividers 140 (four as shown) divide the upper surface of the base
68 into individual compartments 142. Various products can be
displayed directly in these individual compartments. As a simple
example, if the display stand were used in a supermarket, cans of a
specified vegetable could be literally stacked in one of the
compartments 142, packaged meat products could literally be
displayed in another one of the compartments, etc. For this
purpose, the construction of the base can vary and, for that
matter, additional shelves can be mounted on the legs 70 in order
to increase the display space.
[0076] In another embodiment of the invention, the display sign can
be used as a type of point of sale promotion enhancer. Referring to
FIG. 13, for example, it can be observed that there is a display
sign 20 also mounted on a stand 68 having an upstanding leg 70. For
purposes of providing information, such as coupons which could be
used, e.g. in a drugstore, a rack 144 is mounted on the leg 70, as
shown in FIG. 13. This rack can be sub-divided into individual
compartments for holding various types of informational sheets
which may be picked up by a user.
[0077] In addition, and for purposes of making reservations when a
display advertises a particular feature or event, or when the
display advertises a hotel, for example, a telephone 146 can also
be connected to the outer housing 72. This telephone 146 could
either be a dialing telephone or one which is connected directly to
a source capable of taking a reservation or otherwise booking an
arrangement for the caller. Thus, as a simple example, the display
sign could be generating displays featuring a particular hotel and
if the observer is pleased with the displays generated, he or she
can merely pick up the telephone handset, as shown in FIG. 13, and
immediately access an operator or other agent capable of making the
reservation or booking the particular event or hotel room for the
caller.
[0078] These few features alone illustrate the wide versatility
capable of being achieved with the display system of the present
invention. In this respect, the display system can generate a type
of "streaming media", that is, it possesses the capability of
presenting continuously groups of advertisements which may be run
together end on end and, for that matter, can even blend
advertisements. This may be particularly advantageous when a
product display is also set up on the base, as previously
described. In addition, the display can actually be animated with a
type of 3-D presentation. Various graphic aids can also be used. As
a simple example, the display can be generated initially from top
to bottom or from bottom to top. FIG. 12 shows, for example, a
display which is coming from the lower right hand corner of the
display screen and which is being increased in size over time.
Thereafter, the next display could come from a different corner or
from a side, top or bottom of the screen. This type of presentation
has been found to generate a great deal of attention.
[0079] In addition to the foregoing, the product or service which
is being generated can also be animated in order to obtain
attention of individuals. Furthermore, sound can be generated.
Thus, as a simple example, on each occasion when a new product or
service is offered or, for that matter, when images of a particular
product or service being offered changes, a bell can ring or other
noise can be generated in order to catch the viewer's attention. As
indicated previously, the basket or rack enables hand-outs to the
viewer and, thus, represents a type of "uplift" advertising, that
is, it causes people to purchase more of a particular product or
service than they would otherwise purchase.
[0080] The display system of the invention also has the capability,
particularly when operated from a remote source, of causing
alterations of the display at any point in time. Thus, for example,
if an eight ounce box of a particular product is being displayed.
It is possible to immediately cause a four ounce box of that same
product or, for that matter, another product to be presented over
the image of the eight ounce box of product. Moreover, with the
animation and the fact that the display can be generated in
essentially any fashion, it is possible to place a product or
service in a most favorable light.
[0081] It is also possible to operate a plurality of these display
signs at a single location or at different locations from one
remote source. Moreover, all of the display signs could be operated
simultaneously or individually. In addition, all of the display
signs could be connected together through a single telephone
circuit enabling the access of all of the individual display
panels. In other words, one computer can operate a plurality of
display signs or other display generating panels through telephone
circuitry or by other means.
[0082] One of the features of the display stand of the invention is
the fact that it actually attracts the viewer, that is, viewers
will literally stand in front of the display in order to view same.
This has been found to be important in that it actually increases
the purchase or other acquisition of the service or product. Thus,
the display stand not only functions to merely advise of the
availability of a product or service, but it provides information
about that product or service and, in addition, promotes and
enhances the product and service so that the interest of the viewer
is increased in that product and service by viewing the display. In
this way, the display device not only functions to present
displays, but it actually functions to enhance and increase the
advertising appeal of a particular product or service.
[0083] Thus, there has been illustrated and described a unique and
novel display system which enables a display sign to be operated
from a remote source and where a display can be generated at the
sign based on signals from the remote source and which are
transmitted to the display sign for generation of an analog display
thereon. The display system and the display sign forming a part
thereof thereby fulfill and meet all of the objects and advantages
which have been sought. It should be understood that many changes,
modifications, variations and other uses and applications will
become apparent to those skilled in the art after considering this
specification and the accompanying drawings. Therefore, any and all
such changes, modifications, variations and other uses and
applications which do not depart from the spirit and scope of the
invention are deemed to be covered by the invention.
* * * * *