Patents Assigned to Daktronics, Inc.
  • Patent number: 11930603
    Abstract: A display system comprises a display of one or more display surfaces, each formed from a plurality of display modules arranged in proximity. Each display module comprising light-emitting elements configured to collectively display information. The display system also comprises one or more tension members and one or more base supporting members connected to the one or more tension members and positioned proximate to one or more of the display modules located at a vertical base of the display. The one or more base supporting members are coupled to the display modules located at the vertical base such that the one or more base supporting members provide underlying support to the plurality of display modules. The one or more tension members and the one or more base supporting members support the weight of the display when the one or more tension members are connected to a support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 28, 2021
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2024
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent Shane Miller, Ashton Flowers, Jon Settingsgard
  • Patent number: 11910543
    Abstract: An electronic display comprises a support system comprising a plurality of support chassis, each support chassis comprising a plurality of chassis components each formed from one or more pieces of sheet metal, wherein the plurality of chassis components are welded together with a plurality of laser weld joints to form the support chassis having a front wall with a planar or substantially planar front mounting face, and a plurality of planar or substantially planar side walls, wherein the planar or substantially planar mounting faces of the plurality of support chassis are aligned to collectively form a front mounting surface, and a plurality of display modules mounted to the front mounting face, wherein each display module comprises an array of light-emitting element pixels, wherein the plurality of display modules collectively form a display surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 5, 2021
    Date of Patent: February 20, 2024
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Matt Hillman, Jeff Haliburton, Lincoln Hahn, Matt Kurtenbach, Ivan Vargas, Jason Young, Joshua Roiger
  • Patent number: 11783735
    Abstract: A display module comprises light-emitting elements coupled to one or more mounting structures and grouped into a pixels in a pixel array on a display face to display textual, graphical, or video information, with each pixel comprising a grouping of one or more light-emitting elements. A face cover is mounted to the mounting structure and is positioned in front of at least a portion of the display face. The face cover comprises a plurality of moguls arranged in a mogul array with each mogul positioned in front of and proximate to a corresponding one of the pixels so that the mogul covers at least a portion of the corresponding pixel, and one or more light-emitting openings in each mogul, each positioned relative to one or more corresponding light-emitting element of the pixel to permit light emitted from the corresponding one or more light-emitting elements to pass through the mogul.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2022
    Date of Patent: October 10, 2023
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth Parker Lawley
  • Patent number: 11696413
    Abstract: A display comprises a display surface formed from a plurality of display modules arranged in proximity, each display module comprising a plurality of light-emitting elements configured to collectively display one or more of video, graphical, or textual information, and a support array onto which the plurality of display modules is mounted to form the display surface. The support array comprises a plurality of tension members, a plurality of support members arranged in an array, each of the plurality of support members comprising a mounting face and each being supported by at least one of the plurality of tension members. Each of the tension members is suspended either from a support structure or another one of the support members, and each of the display modules is coupled to the mounting face of one or more of the support members.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 29, 2021
    Date of Patent: July 4, 2023
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Matthew G. Hillman, Lincoln Hahn
  • Patent number: 11572974
    Abstract: A display module comprises a support, a plurality of light-emitting elements coupled to the support and a latch mechanism to removeably couple the support to a chassis. The latch mechanism includes a movable member, a latch member, and a linkage mechanism. The movable member is moved from a first position to a second position when magnetically engaged by a tool magnet. The latch member moves between a first latch member position and a second latch member position and can engage a chassis mating structure when in the first latch member position. The linkage mechanism mechanically connects the movable member to the latch member so that they move together such that the latch member is in the first latch member position when the movable member is in the first position and is in the second latch member position when the movable member is in the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 11, 2019
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2023
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Ashton Flowers, Kent Shane Miller, Jon Settingsgard
  • Patent number: 11450245
    Abstract: A display module (102) comprises light-emitting elements (106) coupled to one or more mounting structures and grouped into a pixels in a pixel array on a display face to display textual, graphical, or video information, with each pixel comprising a grouping of one or more light-emitting elements. A face cover (100) is mounted to the mounting structure and is positioned in front of at least a portion of the display face. The face cover comprises a plurality of moguls (110) arranged in a mogul array with each mogul positioned in front of and proximate to a corresponding one of the pixels so that the mogul covers at least a portion of the corresponding pixel, and one or more light-emitting openings (112) in each mogul, each positioned relative to one or more corresponding light-emitting element of the pixel to permit light emitted from the corresponding one or more light-emitting elements to pass through the mogul.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 20, 2022
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth Parker Lawley
  • Patent number: 11163515
    Abstract: A display system comprises a plurality of displays each comprising an array of light-emitting elements to display a corresponding message, a primary controller that controls the array of light-emitting elements of each display to control the content of each message, a communication network to transmit control signals from the primary controller to the displays, a remote manager in communication with the primary controller via a primary manager communication link, and a redundant controller configured and able to control the array of light-emitting elements of each display to control the content of each message if it is determined that there is a malfunction of the primary controller, an interruption in the communication network between the primary controller and at least one of the displays, or an interruption in the primary communication link.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: November 2, 2021
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Denver Wayne Kruse, Stephen Nathaniel Bostrom, Aaron Milbrath, Scott Donelan, James Noble
  • Patent number: 11109495
    Abstract: A display system (10) comprises a display (12) of one or more display surfaces (24), each formed from a plurality of display modules (14) arranged in proximity. Each display module comprising light-emitting elements configured to collectively display information. The display system also comprises one or more tension members (30) and one or more base supporting members (32) connected to the one or more tension members and positioned proximate to one or more of the display modules located at a vertical base of the display. The one or more base supporting members are coupled to the display modules located at the vertical base such that the one or more base supporting members provide underlying support to the plurality of display modules. The one or more tension members and the one or more base supporting members support the weight of the display when the one or more tension members are connected to a support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 31, 2021
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent Shane Miller, Ashton Flowers, Jon Settingsgard
  • Patent number: 10999940
    Abstract: An electronic sign having slotted frame cabinets whereby each slotted frame cabinet can conveniently be attached to one or more vertically or horizontally positioned adjacent slotted frame cabinets by using connecting components which are generally located around the periphery of one or more slotted frame cabinets. Connecting components, including splice bars, splice plates, and mounting clamps, are aligned in, positioned along and secured to backing bars which are co-located in backing bar slots in one or more of the slotted frame cabinets. Lift eyes can be variably located in one or more lift eye slots. The use of externally located connecting components, which do not extend through the cabinetry, minimize the entry of environmental elements into the interior of the electronic sign. Multiple slotted frame cabinets can be connected without the removal of LED display panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 4, 2021
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Kory D. Kludt, Russell Jon Neyens, Jon M. Mammenga
  • Patent number: 10985604
    Abstract: A system comprises a redundancy circuit board including a plurality of primary input connectors each connectible to a primary power supply that supplies primary electrical energy, a redundancy power input connector connectible to a redundant power supply that supplies redundant electrical energy, a plurality of output connectors connectible to a display component powerable by the primary or redundant electrical energy, and a plurality of electrical pathways including primary pathways each connecting a primary input connector to a corresponding output connector, redundant pathways each connecting the redundancy input connector to a corresponding output connector.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 2018
    Date of Patent: April 20, 2021
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Daniel Paul Muzzey, Aaron Bucholz, Jason Brands, Karl Seidl
  • Patent number: 10806041
    Abstract: A display comprises a mounting structure comprising one or more structural members (122) having a first face (136) and a second face (138), a first plurality of display modules (112) mounted to the first faces of the one or more structural members with a plurality of magnetic mounts (19A, 110B), wherein the first plurality of display modules are arranged in proximity to form a first display surface, and one or more tension members coupled to the mounting structure, wherein the one or more tension members support the display when the one or more tension members are connected to a support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 12, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 13, 2020
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Kent Shane Miller, Ashton Flowers, Mark Bryon Carsrud
  • Patent number: 10749085
    Abstract: A display module comprises a circuit board having a front face, a plurality of light-emitting elements electrically coupled to the front face of the circuit board, a polymer encapsulating member adhered to the front face of the circuit board, the polymer encapsulating member substantially covering at least a portion of the circuit board and a portion of the plurality of light-emitting elements, the polymer encapsulating member substantially sealing the portion of the circuit board and the portion of the plurality of light-emitting elements, and an ultraviolet-radiation diminishing component in the polymer encapsulating member or on one or more of at least a portion of the circuit board or at least a portion of each of the light-emitting elements, wherein the ultraviolet-radiation diminishing component filters, blocks, or reflects more ultraviolet radiation than would be filtered, blocked, or reflected by the polymer encapsulating member without the ultraviolet-radiation diminishing component.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: August 18, 2020
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Shannon Lee Mutschelknaus, Jordan Gab, Nathan Lane Nearman, Ryan J. Nielsen, Ryan Hemiller
  • Patent number: 10658099
    Abstract: The present disclosure provides a display module. The module includes a module support structure, a plurality of light-emitting elements coupled to the module support structure, and one or more latch assemblies configured to removeably couple the module support structure to a support chassis. Each of the one or more latch assemblies includes a first magnet movably coupled with the module support structure at a first location. The assemblies further include a second magnet movably coupled with the module support structure at a second location. The second magnet is movable relative to the module support structure between a first corresponding position and a second corresponding position. The assemblies further include a shaft connecting the first magnet and the second magnet so that the first magnet and the second magnet move together.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2020
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Dan Habeck
  • Patent number: 10660225
    Abstract: A display module comprises a support structure, a plurality of light-emitting elements mounted to the support structure, and a latch assembly that includes a latch plate comprising a magnetically-engageable material, wherein the latch plate is moveable relative to the module support structure within a range of motion between a first position and a second position. The magnetically-engageable material of the latch plate forms a first magnetic attraction force between the latch plate and a support chassis mating structure when the latch plate is in the first position to at least partially secure the display module to the support chassis. A corresponding magnetic device can generate a second magnetic attraction force between the corresponding magnetic device and the latch plate that overcomes the first magnetic attraction force and moves the latch plate from the first position to the second position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 4, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 19, 2020
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Gregory Schafer, Ryan Hemiller
  • Patent number: 10653023
    Abstract: According to various examples, a display assembly includes a support chassis. The display assembly further includes a display module. The display module includes a front major face, a plurality of light-emitting elements mounted to the front major face, and a rear major face generally opposing the front major face. The rear major face is mounted to the support chassis. The display assembly further includes a first biasing subassembly positioned generally at or proximate to a first biasing location along the front major face, the biasing subassembly. The first biasing subassembly includes a first biasing magnet located within a first cavity in the display module. The first biasing magnet is movable within the cavity between a first position and a second position relative to the display module. The first biasing subassembly further includes a first biasing member extending generally between the front major face and the rear major face.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 14, 2018
    Date of Patent: May 12, 2020
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventor: Dan Habeck
  • Patent number: 10317007
    Abstract: An electronic sign having slotted frame cabinets, whereby each slotted frame cabinet can conveniently be attached to one or more vertically or horizontally positioned adjacent slotted frame cabinets by using connecting components which are generally located around the periphery of one or more slotted frame cabinets. Connecting components including splice bars, splice plates, and mounting clamps are aligned in, positioned along, and secured to backing bars which are co-located in backing bar slots in one or more of the slotted frame cabinets. Lift eyes can be variably located in one or more lift eye slots. The use of externally located connecting components, which do not extend through the cabinetry, minimize the entry of environmental elements into the interior of the electronic sign. Multiple slotted frame cabinets can be connected without the removal of LED display panels. Bracket assemblies and clamping assemblies are provided.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 2017
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2019
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Kory D. Kludt, Jon Michael Mammenga, Nathan W. Hart, Michael A. Hulscher
  • Patent number: 10201100
    Abstract: An electronic sign having slotted frame cabinets whereby each slotted frame cabinet can conveniently be attached to one or more vertically or horizontally positioned adjacent slotted frame cabinets by using connecting components which are generally located around the periphery of one or more slotted frame cabinets. Connecting components, including splice bars, splice plates, and mounting clamps, are aligned in, positioned along and secured to backing bars which are co-located in backing bar slots in one or more of the slatted frame cabinets. Lift eyes can be variably located in one or more lift eye slots. The use of externally located connecting components, which do not extend through the cabinetry, minimize the entry of environmental elements into the interior of the electronic sign. Multiple slotted frame cabinets can be connected without the removal of LED display panels.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2016
    Date of Patent: February 5, 2019
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Kory D. Kludt, Russell Jon Neyens, Jon M. Mammenga
  • Patent number: 10154740
    Abstract: A cabinet system having a protective shroud and an external frame with a linear track. The protective shroud provides a protected inner space shielded from moisture and airborne contaminants. The cabinet system also includes a mounting assembly having a mounting arm that can be affixed to a support structure and also having a mounting foot slidably engaged to the at least one track. The mounting foot can be fixed at positions along the linear track allowing the cabinet to be mounted at different position relative to the support structure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2018
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Peter McMahon, Pat Lilla, Josh Pommer, Jeff Holm, John W. Syrstad
  • Patent number: D896828
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 22, 2018
    Date of Patent: September 22, 2020
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Ronald Linares, Yanier Figueras
  • Patent number: D958165
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 24, 2019
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2022
    Assignee: Daktronics, Inc.
    Inventors: Yanier Figueras, Ronald Linares